{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"AL\" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/congress-could-reconsider-military-pension-cut-january", "Congress could reconsider military pension cut in January", "2013-12-29", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A cut to military retirement pay in the budget signed Thursday by President Obama has already triggered such a backlash that Congress may vote in January to toss it out.\nSome lawmakers who represent districts with a military presence \u2014 and who voted for the overall budget \u2014 are vowing to overturn the pension change as soon as the House and the Senate reconvene Friday. Several House and Senate lawmakers in both parties, responding to heavy lobbying from advocates for service members and veterans, already have introduced bills that would restore full cost-of-living increases for military retirees of working age.\nReps. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) and Michael G. Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) have introduced a bill that would restore the annual cost-of-living adjustment for about 800,000 enlisted troops and officers who retire in their early 40s, then take other jobs outside the military. In the budget passed this month, the COLA for working-age retirees was reduced by 1 percentage point; once the retirees turn 62, they go back to receiving the full increase.\nThe cut is expected to save the government about $6 billion over 10 years, and it is set to be phased in over three years. Davis and Fitzpatrick\u2019s bill would find the savings instead by asking the Internal Revenue Service to crack down on Americans who file fraudulent claims for child tax credits.\n\u201cI think we need to make the fix right now,\u201d said Davis, whose Illinois district includes many former service members and employees at nearby Scott Air Force Base.\nAt a meet-and-greet with constituents in his district recently, many voters were livid at the pension cut, Davis said. To them and him, he said, the federal government is unfairly breaking a promise it made to service members.\n\u201cA lot of people joined the military and made huge sacrifices because they were promised a benefit,\u201d he said. \u201cTo go back on that is wrong.\u201d\nRep. Martha Roby (R-Ala.) said she is partnering with Fitzpatrick on the legislation.\n\u201cI believe that this is a fix the Republican conference can rally around,\u201d she said in a statement one day after the budget was approved. \u201cIn my opinion, it should be the first item on the docket for 2014.\u201d\nSen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), who is up for reelection next year, has introduced a bill to replace the $6 billion saved by the COLA cut by instead \u201celiminating a tax loophole for offshore corporations,\u201d a news release from her office said.\nRepublican Sens. Kelly Ayotte (N.H.), James M. Inhofe (Okla.), Lindsey O. Graham (S.C.) and others also have come out against the COLA cut.\nOn Dec. 23, Reps. Julia Brownley (D-Calif.) and Ted Poe (R-Tex.) introduced similar measures that would repeal the provision.\n\u201cAs a member of the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, I believe our servicemembers, veterans, and their families must receive the benefits they have earned and deserve,\u201d Brownley said in a statement. \u201cThese benefits are owed to them without equivocation. That is why I have introduced legislation to repeal the military retiree COLA reduction.\u201d\nIt is unclear whether either proposal includes cuts to offset the elimination of the COLA savings.\nEven lawmakers who support the COLA cut agree that the provision should be changed to exempt at least disabled veterans who were forced to retire for medical reasons, as well as survivors.\nThe budget legislation also requires newly hired civilian federal employees to contribute more to their pensions.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-moves-protect-military-pensions", "Roby Moves To Protect Military Pensions", "2013-12-19", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Just one day after Congress passed a landmark budget agreement to control spending for the next two years, U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) is moving to replace one of the plan\u2019s least popular provisions and ensure that military retirees are not unfairly penalized under the new law. Rep. Roby is partnering with Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and other lawmakers to repeal a provision that reduces working-age military pensions beginning in 2015 and replace it with a measure to prevent illegal aliens from receiving fraudulent cash payments from the government in the form of the Refundable Child Tax Credit. \u201cThere are many good things in the budget agreement passed by Congress: setting a sustainable path of controlled federal spending, preventing some of the harmful sequestration cuts to our military, and returning Congress to regular order to end the days of massive temporary spending bills passed at the last minute. I applaud the negotiators for tackling a difficult challenge and producing the first compromise budget in a divided government in 27 years,\" Rep. Roby said. \u201cHowever, the final product was not what I would have drafted, and House members were not given the opportunity to improve the bill through amendments on the floor. One provision that is particularly troublesome is the one percent reduction in the cost of living adjustment for working age military retirees beginning in 2015. Just look at the vast federal government that is rife with waste. Are reductions to military benefits really the best place for Congress to make cuts? I don\u2019t think so, and I that\u2019s why I believe that provision should be removed.\u201d The legislation introduced today in the House \u2013 H.R. 3788 \u2013 is a compliment to an amendment offered by Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) during debate on the budget plan in the Senate. It removes the cost-of-living increase reduction and replaces it with a measure closing a tax loophole that allows ineligible, non-citizens to receive fraudulent cash payments in the form of a Refundable Child Tax Credit. The Joint Committee on Taxation estimates that closing this loophole by simply requiring the recipients of this taxpayer-funded credit to be eligible citizens would save as much as $7 billion, more than enough to offset the $6 billion gleaned from altering military retiree pensions. \u201cToday I am joining Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick and others in the House to offer a companion bill to Sen. Sessions\u2019 commonsense amendment. I believe that this is a fix the Republican Conference can rally around. I have personally contacted the House leadership this morning to give voice to the concerns of military retirees in my district who feel singled out by the budget agreement. I am strongly encouraging our leaders to use the Christmas week as an opportunity to build support for this or similar legislation so that we can pass it upon our return in January. In my opinion, it should be the first item on the docket for 2014. \"I greatly appreciate Sen. Sessions' leadership in crafting and fighting for this amendment, which was only denied because Majority Leader Harry Reid used procedural tactics to block it. \"We need to make this right. In the coming weeks, we will try to use our position of strength in the House majority to improve upon the budget agreement and better prioritize our budget savings.\u201d Closing the gaping loophole the Refundable Child Tax Credit is more than justifiable, particularly given the budget situation. \u00a0 According to a 2011 report form the Treasury Inspector General, \u201cMillions of people are seeking this tax credit who, we believe, are not entitled to it. We have made recommendations to the IRS as to how they could address this, and they have not taken sufficient action in our view to solve the problem.\u201d The Treasury Inspector General went on to say that \u201cthe payment of Federal funds through this tax benefit appears to provide an additional incentive for aliens to enter, reside, and work in the United States without authorization, which contradicts Federal law and policy to remove such incentives.\u201d Read the full report from the Treasury Inspector General here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/house-republicans-revive-effort-stop-vet-benefit-cuts-closing-tax-credit-loophole", "House Republicans revive effort to stop vet benefit cuts by closing tax credit loophole", "2013-12-19", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Alabama Republican Rep. Martha Roby and Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick are attempting to revive an effort to prevent cuts to military retirement benefits by closing a loophole that has allowed illegal immigrants to unlawfully obtain welfare benefits. Earlier this week during Senate debate on the two-year budget deal \u2014 which cuts military pensions by $6 billion over 10 years \u2014 Senate Democrats foiled Alabama Republican Sen. Jeff Sessions\u2019 attempt to halt the cuts by closing the same loophole. The loophole in question allows tax filers without a Social Security number to claim Additional Child Tax Credits by filing returns with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, a policy the Treasury inspector general for tax administration reported cost taxpayers $4.2 billion in 2010. While Senate Republicans were unable to prevent the cuts to military retirement benefits contained in the budget deal brokered by Senate Budget Committee Chairwoman Patty Murray and House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, concerns remain about the House- and Senate-passed cuts. Thursday, Fitzpatrick and Roby introduced a companion to Session\u2019s amendment, which would close the loophole by requiring people to have a Social Security number to obtain Additional Child Tax Credits and halt the cuts to military retirement benefits. \u201cWe need to make this right. In the coming weeks, we will try to use our position of strength in the House majority to improve upon the budget agreement and better prioritize our budget savings,\u201d Roby said, commending Sessions\u2019 earlier effort and adding that she spoke to House leadership this morning to highlight the proposal. Fitzpatrick and Roby\u2019s bill currently has 45 co-sponsors \u2014 including one Democrat, Rep. John Barrow from Georgia. \u201cThe non-partisan Joint Tax Commission reported last year that by closing the loophole for fraudulent payments, the taxpayer could save nearly $7 billion over 10 years,\u201d Fitzpatrick said. \u201cThat\u2019s enough to remove the need to make any changes to military benefits.\u201d One GOP aide added that the hope is to push Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Senate Democrats in the right direction. \u201cHopefully Ryan will join with conservatives to change the Ryan-Murray plan and put pressure squarely on the shoulders of Harry Reid and his loyal band of Senate Democrats to make this right,\u201d the aide said.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-martha-roby-joins-fight-protect-military-retirees-house-bill-designed-stop-pension", "Rep. Martha Roby joins fight to protect military retirees, House bill designed to stop pension cuts", "2013-12-19", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Just one day after the Senate's passage of a two-year budget agreement, Montgomery Republican Martha Roby is joining with other representatives to try and change one of its most controversial provisions. Roby, along with Rep. Mike Fitzgerald, R-Penn., is joining with other lawmakers to repeal a provision that reduces pensions for working age military retirees beginning in 2015. Roby said she'd like to see the cuts replaced with a measure to prevent illegal aliens from receiving payments through the Refundable Child Tax Credit. Roby, who voted for the budget plan in the House, said it does set a sustainable path for controlled federal spending and lessens the impact sequestration will have on the military. However, she said House members were not allowed to present amendments to the bill once it was on the House floor. \"One provision that is particularly troublesome is the one percent reduction in the cost of living adjustment for working age military retirees beginning in 2015. Just look at the vast federal government that is rife with waste. Are reductions to military benefits really the best place for Congress to make cuts? I don't think so, and that is why I believe that provision should be removed,\" Roby said. The bill is the House version of one introduced earlier by Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-AL. A vote on Sessions measure was blocked, however, and lawmakers have vowed to repeal the measure. The House bill introduced today would require recipients of the Refundable Child Tax Credit to be eligible citizens. The change could save as much as $7 billion a year as compared to the $6 billion in savings over the next decade from the cuts to cost-of-living adjustments for retired veterans younger than age 62. Roby said she is working to have the measure come before the House when it returns in 2014. \"We need to make this right. In the coming weeks, we will try to use our position of strength in the House majority to improve upon the budget agreement and better prioritize our budget savings,\" Roby said.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/fort-rucker-army-officials-talk-sequester-lawmakers", "Fort Rucker, Army officials talk sequester with lawmakers", "2013-12-17", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Predictability and flexibility.\nThat\u2019s what top Fort Rucker and Army officials told members of Congress they need to ensure the future of Army aviation at a panel discussion held Tuesday on post.\nRep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Rep. Michael Turner, R-Ohio, met with military officials to discuss the impact of sequestration on Fort Rucker and Army aviation.\nSequestration refers to a series of mandatory cuts legislators agreed to enact if they were unable to agree upon a budget. The mandatory cuts were meant to encourage lawmakers to work toward passing a budget. They failed, and as a result, these automatic cuts went into effect in March.\nMaj. Gen. Kevin Mangum, Fort Rucker commanding general, said the cuts had severely impacted the post\u2019s mission of training new pilots. Mangum said the post has seen about $250 million in cuts over the past year and, as a result, fewer pilots are being trained.\nMangum said the post went from training 1,300 pilots last year to less than 1,200 this year and will train around 899 pilots next year.\n\u201cWe\u2019re not changing the standard, but we are changing the student load,\u201d Mangum said.\nMaj. Gen. William Crosby, Program Executive Officer, PEO-Aviation, told Roby and Turner that one of the most detrimental aspects of the sequester and federal budget wrangles was that it made it difficult to plan and to sign long-term contracts with contractors. Crosby said being unable to plan is counterproductive to actually saving money, as unexpected cuts led to expensive program changes and cancellations. Being unable to sign multi-year contracts robs the military of the ability to lock in cost savings through bargains from contractors, Crosby said.\nCrosby told the lawmakers that military leaders need stability in the budgeting process and the flexibility to prioritize what cuts need to be made when funding reductions are necessary. Crosby said a steady revenue stream and the ability to plan is necessary to provide military contractors with the business they need to stay afloat and invest in further developments to provide the military with what it needs when it needs it.\nWhen asked about flight simulator training, Mangum said about 38 percent of flight instruction occurs on flight simulators. These simulators take up only about 8 percent of the training budget, which Mangum said is an excellent return on investment.\nMangum also expressed excitement about the opportunities provided by pairing unmanned and manned aircraft. Mangum said a 60/40 split on manned and unmanned aircraft on missions appears to be the best formula.\nRoby now sits on the House Appropriations Committee while Turner chairs the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee.\nRoby said a bill to stop the sequester for the military for two years had recently passed the House and has a good chance of passing the Senate.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-martha-roby-hosts-panel-about-army-aviation", "Rep. Martha Roby hosts panel about army aviation", "2013-12-17", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A panel discussion with Representative Martha Roby and Fort Rucker officials was held today. The main topic of concern was the future of army aviation in the midst of sequestration.\nOhio representative, Michael Turner is the chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces subcommittee. As chairman of the committee that oversees important Army and Air Force programs, he wanted to learn more about army aviation. Representative Martha Roby saw the request as an opportunity for Fort Rucker officials to explain issues they're facing to the key policy maker.\n\"It's extremely important for him to have a front row seat as to what our commanders are doing here at Rucker and how important that is for the future and army aviation,\" said Roby.\nShe says meetings like today are vital to understanding and later lobbying for army program funding during budget cuts.\n\"Whenever we go to someone to try to advocate, another member of congress or a committee chairman or we're trying to make changes of bills, our ability to cite specifics really enhances success,\" said Turner.\nMany specific examples were given today; officials say the hardest hit area is training. Just in flight training this upcoming year at Fort Rucker almost 30 percent less trainees were able to be accepted. Not only are the amount of students cut, the complexity of situations given to the trainees are being limited.\n\"The issue of training is the most important topic because it goes to how do we keep out service members ready for the challenges that they absolutely are going to face and here at this facility you have both hands on training and simulated training and they had a great discussion to make sure our service members get both,\u201d said Turner.\nOfficials say that without proper training, when the nation calls on them they'll be assuming some risk.A budget deal that passed in the House is likely to pass in the senate in a final vote sometime this week. If it does pass through the Senate and later the president, it would ease some of those spending cuts.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-turner-discuss-budget-concerns-post-leaders", "Roby, Turner discuss budget concerns with post leaders", "2013-12-17", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As a two-year, bipartisan budget agreement for fiscal year 2014 and 2015 continues to make its way through Congress, United States Rep. Martha Roby and Chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee Rep. Michael Turner sat down with Fort Rucker leaders Dec. 17 at the post\u2019s Headquarters Building to discuss the impacts of sequestration and the future of Army aviation.\n\tThe panel discussion included Maj. Gen. Kevin Mangum, commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence; Maj. Gen. William Crosby, program executive officer of the Program Executive Office of Aviation; Col. Frank Tate, director of aviation for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff; and Col. John Lindsay, director of Army Aviation for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff.\n\t\u201cI take every opportunity I can to share with my colleagues in Washington the great things that are happening right here at Fort Rucker, as well as Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, but there\u2019s no better way for you (Turner) to understand what we have here than to see it,\u201d Roby said.\n\tDuring the past year, the Department of Defense has seen its fair share of budget constraints due to cuts and sequestration, but this past summer Fort Rucker leaders were able to avert the cuts on flight training hours and the student load thanks to cost efficiencies and savings.\n\tHowever, as the Department of the Army continued to make tough budget decisions for fiscal year 2014, the DOA recently announced Fort Rucker will experience a reduction in the number of aviation soldiers trained by the post.\n\tMangum described to Roby and Turner the effects the post has felt the past year with sequestration and the fiscal restraints it expects to see with proposed cuts in the two-year budget plan.\n\tIn fiscal year 2013, Mangum said the post saw a $138 million decrement and trained less than 1,200 students.\n\tFor fiscal year 2014, Mangum said Fort Rucker will see a $112 million decrement and will reduce its flight-training load to 899 students.\n\t\u201cOver the past year we\u2019ve realized a $250 million cut to our program here, which equates to about a 28 percent reduction of our flight-hour program,\u201d he said.\n\tAssessing the future challenges for Army aviation, Mangum said his greatest concern with further budget cuts and end strength reductions is readiness.\n\t\u201cWe can tinker a bit with modernization, readiness or manning. My concern is that of those three, readiness is the piece that will take the hit in the near term,\u201d he said. \u201cBased on the fact that we\u2019ve extended most of our modernization programs as far as we can\u2026 and we can\u2019t bring down our forestructure as quickly as we\u2019d like to or need to to be able to balance all of those priorities.\u201d\n\tIn the short term, Mangum said the biggest challenge is going to be readiness and how to give the crews and units the best resources they need to maintain their training.\n\t\u201c(With budget decrements), not only will we cut the size of the team, we\u2019ll potentially give them less time to practice,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cSo that really is the concern. Do they have the resource they need to be as highly trained regardless of how large our team is?\u201d\n\tLooking at the road ahead, Mangum said the post will need to learn how to balance Army aviation\u2019s forestructure, modernization and readiness to meet global demands.\n\t\u201cWe must now seize the opportunity to sustain the best force we can afford to ensure that enthusiasm and expectations do not exceed capabilities and future first battles,\u201d he said. \u201cThroughout this difficult process, we must also honor the sacrifice and commitment that are our soldiers and their families.\u201d\n\tFortunately for the post, Roby said there is a key provision in the recently-passed National Defense Authorization Act, the major funding measure for the U.S. military, that will turn the sequester off for the military for the next two years.\n\tThe House passed the NDAA for fiscal year 2014 Dec. 12.\n\t\u201cThe agreement that the House voted on last week, part of that agreement was that the defense sequester \u2014 the additional $20 billion in cuts that would have gone into effect in the beginning of January \u2014 is turned off,\u201d Roby said. \u201cSo spending levels will remain for the military where they are now, and I believe that\u2019s about $520 billion.\u201d\n\tRoby said she and Turner supported the agreement with hopes it would better protect and help the nation\u2019s Armed Forces.\n\t\u201cThe funding level is not where our commanders want it to be, but at least for the next two years they will have the potential for the flexibility and the certainty associated with those dollars going to what they need to prioritize those dollars to go to and that\u2019s readiness,\u201d Roby said. \u201cIt\u2019s having a prepared force.\u201d\n\tThrough his visit, Turner said he gained a lot of insight he plans to take back with him to Washington.\n\t\u201cI appreciate Martha Roby inviting me so that I can get firsthand from leadership here a perspective, but also to get to see what we need to do in the future,\u201d he said. \u201cI think the issue of training is the most important topic because it goes to how do we keep our services members for the challenges that they are absolutely going to face. Here at this facility, you have both real hands-on training and simulated training, and they had a great discussion of the need to make sure our services members get them both.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045906/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=127c89c8-d033-ff80-1a1b-7e191c7b922d", "Sessions, Vitter Demand Accounting Of Taxpayer Funds Wasted On EPAs Unnecessary Ozone Proposal", "2013-12-17", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee and Senate EPW Committee Ranking Member David Vitter, joined by all Republican members of the Senate EPW Committee, wrote EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy today to renew a longstanding, unanswered request for an accounting of taxpayer funds wasted during EPA\u2019s unnecessary, and ultimately abandoned, reconsideration of the ozone standard in the 2010-2011 timeframe. The text of the letter follows:\nTo view it as a PDF, please click here:\n\u00a0\nDecember 17, 2013\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe Honorable Gina McCarthy\nAdministrator\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency \n1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\nWashington DC 20460\n\u00a0\nRe:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Taxpayer Funds Expended on Reconsideration of Ozone NAAQS\n\u00a0\nDear Administrator McCarthy:\nWe are writing to renew a longstanding, unanswered request for data related to federal funds and resources expended as part of EPA\u2019s unnecessary reconsideration of the national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS) for ground level ozone in the 2010-2011 timeframe. As you know, ozone attainment status significantly impacts state and local transportation planning, energy production and use, and economic development. EPA\u2019s reconsideration of the ozone standard in 2010-2011, years ahead of the regularly-scheduled review process established in the Clean Air Act (CAA), caused economic and regulatory uncertainty throughout the United States. Private businesses and organizations as well as federal, state, and local agencies incurred significant expenses analyzing EPA\u2019s proposal as well as participating in the public comment process. As the Assistant Administrator with responsibility for EPA\u2019s Office of Air & Radiation at the time, you led this ozone reconsideration effort and, as the Administrator, you are responsible for overseeing the current ozone review.\nMany recognized EPA\u2019s reconsideration initiative as lengthy and unnecessary. For example, a recent report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) suggests that the reconsideration was done as a political, rather than legal, matter and notes that the process took over a year and a half. Specifically, CRS explains:\nWith the change of Administrations in 2009, EPA agreed to reconsider the 2008 [ozone] standard. As a result, a more stringent primary standard and a different version of the secondary standard were proposed in January 2010. After a year and a half of public comment and review, EPA sent what it considered a final set of standards to OMB for interagency review. The process was short-circuited, however, by a Presidential decision to await conclusion of the next regular review\u2014the review now nearing completion\u2014before promulgating any change.\u00a0 \nMoreover, as outlined in the recent Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee Minority Report entitled \u201cNeglecting a Cornerstone Principle of the Clean Air Act: President Obama\u2019s EPA Leaves States Behind,\u201d\u00a0 many states commented about the adverse impacts of the ozone reconsideration proposal. For instance, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency commented:\nThe timing of the proposal, i.e., reopening the standard just two years after it was set, is ill-considered and inconsistent with the schedule for review of NAAQS contained in the Clean Air Act... Attempting to implement a new standard while the previous standard is still being implemented has consistently caused strain, redundancy and inefficiency in the process and has led to seemingly endless rounds of litigation that takes the focus away from the important task at hand--real air quality improvements... U.S. EPA...should not add to the uncertainty and strain generated by the existing Clean Air Act obligations for attaining the ozone standard and generated by the five-year review of that NAAQS by prematurely reevaluating and reestablishing the ozone standard when neither law nor science requires it.\u00a0 \nSimilarly, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources commented:\n[I]t cannot be overemphasized how much of an impact the reconsidered standard will have on limited resources at the state level... [T]he statewide public outreach effort required to provide information and notice to all affected areas will be unprecedented.\u00a0\u00a0 \nOther states commented as well, as discussed in the aforementioned EPW minority report. Additionally, a bipartisan coalition of concerned members of Congress urged EPA to forego the unnecessary reconsideration process.\u00a0 \nFinally, even the President of the United States stepped in and recognized that this effort had to stop. In August 2011, when President Obama directed EPA to not proceed with the ozone reconsideration process, he explained that he \u201cdid not support asking state and local governments to begin implementing a new standard that will soon be reconsidered.\u201d In other words, following 18 months of an unnecessary federal regulatory process that was not mandated by the CAA, the President ordered EPA to stand-down.\u00a0 \nSoon after the President\u2019s decision, Senator Sessions wrote EPA in September 2011 inquiring about the \u201ctotal costs incurred or expended by [EPA] \u2026 on efforts related to reconsideration of the 2008 [ozone standard].\u201d However, ever since that request, EPA has evaded providing a response. At your confirmation hearing, in April of this year, Senator Sessions asked you if you would respond to his questions for the record. You responded: \u201cI absolutely will.\u201d\u00a0 In those questions, you were specifically asked: \u201cDid EPA incur significant costs as part of the ozone reconsideration process; if so, how much?\"\u00a0 You wholly ignored the question in your response to the Committee, violating your pledge before the Committee. Again, in May of this year, EPA staff wrote Senate staff: \u201cWe haven\u2019t tracked down a response but are working on it.\u201d To date, no official EPA response has been provided. It has now been 26 months since the initial request.\nWe can only conclude, in the face of repeated refusals to respond to or acknowledge a legitimate question about how taxpayer money has been spent by EPA, that EPA either seeks to thwart our oversight role in this matter or cannot answer the question. Either explanation is deeply troubling. As Members of the Senate Committee with direct jurisdiction over EPA and the CAA, we have a responsibility to oversee Agency actions, including how it expends the resources made available to it by Congress. Our request is neither overly complex nor burdensome. \nAgain, we request that EPA provide to the Committee an accounting of EPA expenses incurred as part of its abandoned 2010-2011 ozone NAAQS reconsideration including the total costs incurred or expended by EPA from January 21, 2009 through August 31, 2011 on efforts related to the Agency\u2019s reconsideration of the 2008 NAAQS for ground level ozone. The estimate should account for EPA staff time (including salaries and benefits); expenses associated with the public hearings in Arlington, Virginia; Houston, Texas; Sacramento, California; as well as any other public hearings or meetings; third-party expenses for consultants, scientists, or other persons; and any other expense incurred by the Agency as part of this effort. In addition to the monetary costs of these efforts, please also provide the total man-hours expended by EPA staff on this effort during the stated timeframe. \nWe look forward to your prompt and thorough response by January 7, 2014.\nSincerely,\nU.S. Senator Jeff Sessions,\nU.S. Senator David Vitter,\nU.S. Senator James Inhofe,\nU.S. Senator John Barrasso,\nU.S. Senator Mike Crapo,\nU.S. Senator Roger Wicker,\nU.S. Senator John Boozman,\nU.S. Senator Deb Fischer\u201d\n\u00a0\nBACKGROUND:\nThe Clean Air Act (CAA) authorizes EPA to establish national ambient air quality standards for ground level ozone\u2014an air pollutant formed by nitrogen oxide and volatile organic compounds reacting in the presence of sunlight and heat. EPA set the ozone standard of 125 parts per billion (ppb) in the 1970s and, by the 1990s, the ozone standard was set at 84 ppb. In 2008, after a review process that took eight years, EPA further tightened the ozone standard to 75 ppb. \nImportantly, under the CAA, EPA must complete a \u201cthorough review\u201d of the ozone standard \u201cat 5-year intervals.\u201d As a result, the next ozone review process should have commenced five years after the 2008 standard was put in place\u2014i.e., the 2013-2014 timeframe. However, in January of 2010, less than two years after issuing the 2008 standards, the current EPA, under the leadership of Lisa Jackson, decided to commence a costly, unnecessary, and premature consideration of EPA\u2019s 2008 ozone decision several years ahead of schedule. EPA\u2019s ozone proposal was widely viewed as one of the most expensive environmental regulations ever proposed. More troubling, this was a voluntary decision by EPA that was neither ordered by the courts nor mandated by law. In response, Sen. Sessions sent a bipartisan letter signed by 34 U.S. Senators urging EPA to not finalize its proposed ozone standards at that time. Ultimately, President Obama agreed with Senator Sessions' request and directed EPA to not move forward with the ozone reconsideration process. \nImmediately after the President\u2019s decision, Sen. Sessions wrote EPA inquiring about the \u201ctotal costs incurred or expended by [EPA] \u2026 on efforts related to reconsideration of the 2008 [ozone standard].\u201d Notwithstanding efforts to obtain that information since then, EPA has so far dodged responding to this congressional request for an accounting of expenses incurred in the unnecessary ozone reconsideration process. Today\u2019s letter renews Sen. Sessions\u2019 longstanding request for an accounting of taxpayer funds expended as part of the unnecessary and wasteful ozone reconsideration.\nAs Sen. Sessions explained in a September 2011 editorial, \u201c\u2026EPA's proposal would have drained as much as $90 billion annually from the U.S. economy-earning distinction as the most expensive environmental regulation ever proposed. According to the Manufacturers Alliance, this proposal would have put over 7 million jobs at risk by 2020. Under the EPA ozone proposal, many Alabama counties, including Mobile, Baldwin, Montgomery, Shelby, Jefferson, Tuscaloosa, Madison, and several others would have been at serious risk of becoming \u2018non-attainment\u2019 for ozone\u2014a designation that can stymy economic growth and industrial development.\u201d\nSen. Sessions serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee and also serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear Safety, which has oversight jurisdiction for EPA\u2019s air program.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-hosts-armed-services-committee-leader-fort-rucker", "Roby Hosts Armed Services Committee Leader at Fort Rucker", "2013-12-16", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) will host the Chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH), for a visit to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker on Tuesday, December 17.\nThe visit will include a panel discussion on the future of Army aviation and the ongoing impact of budget cuts known as sequestration. Following the panel, Rep. Roby will accompany Chairman Turner on a tour of the post and meetings with other Fort Rucker officials.\n\"I look forward to visiting Fort Rucker and discussing the future of Army Aviation,\" Rep. Turner said. \"I appreciate Martha hosting this panel discussion and the post leadership at Fort Rucker for having us.\"\n\"I'm grateful to Chairman Turner for taking time out of his busy schedule to come visit Fort Rucker,\" Rep. Roby said. \"While recent developments make the budget outlook more promising, the impact of sequestration is still very real. Tuesday we'll have an opportunity to discuss what lies ahead for Army aviation, and there's no better place for that discussion than Fort Rucker. I look for opportunities to share with my fellow Members of Congress the value Fort Rucker adds to the U.S. Armed Forces. This visit will offer Chairman Turner a chance to meet post and community leaders and gain first-hand knowledge of the unique mission at Fort Rucker.\"\nThe panel will include:  \n\t\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Major General Kevin Mangum, Commander, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence,  \n\t\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Major General William Crosby, Program Executive Officer, PEO-Aviation,  \n\t\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Colonel Frank Tate, Director of Aviation, Office of the Deputy COS, G8,  \n\t\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Colonel John Lindsay, Director of Army Aviation, Office of the Deputy COS, G3.\nThe Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces conducts oversight of ammunition programs, Army and Air Force acquisition programs, Navy and Marine Corps aviation programs, as well as National Guard and Army and Air Force National Guard and Reserve. The subcommittee also authorizes procurement and research and development programs to ensure that America\u2019s soldiers and airmen are fully equipped to carry out their mission.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-hosts-armed-services-committee-leader-fort-rucker", "Roby Hosts Armed Services Committee Leader at Fort Rucker", "2013-12-14", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) will host the Chairman of the House Armed Services Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH), for a visit to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker on Tuesday, December 17. The visit will include a panel discussion on the future of Army aviation and the ongoing impact of budget cuts known as sequestration. Following the panel, Rep. Roby will accompany Chairman Turner on a tour of the post and meetings with other Fort Rucker officials. \"I look forward to visiting Fort Rucker and discussing the future of Army Aviation,\" Rep. Turner said. \"I appreciate Martha hosting this panel discussion and the post leadership at Fort Rucker for having us.\" \"I'm grateful to Chairman Turner for taking time out of his busy schedule to come visit Fort Rucker,\" Rep. Roby said. \"While recent developments make the budget outlook more promising, the impact of sequestration is still very real. Tuesday we'll have an opportunity to discuss what lies ahead for Army aviation, and there's no better place for that discussion than Fort Rucker. I look for opportunities to share with my fellow Members of Congress the value Fort Rucker adds to the U.S. Armed Forces. This visit will offer Chairman Turner a chance to meet post and community leaders and gain first-hand knowledge of the unique mission at Fort Rucker.\"\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-passage-2014-defense-bill", "Rogers on Passage of 2014 Defense Bill", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mike Rogers", "R000575", "mike-rogers.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(WASHINGTON, DC)\u2014Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today after voting in support of the Fiscal Year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the House of Representatives today after being negotiated between the House and the Senate Armed Services Committees.\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe NDAA is critical to our national security. \u00a0The world remains a dangerous place and this bill plays a vital part in guiding our military. I am pleased to see passage of this important bill after a lot of hard work and many long hours,\u201d Rogers said. \u00a0\u201cWhen it comes to our nation\u2019s defense, so many of the President\u2019s policies have been a disaster\u2013 from his kowtowing to Russia to his interim deal with Iran, which will guarantee that state obtains a nuclear weapon. \u00a0Our defenses and deterrent are more important than ever.\u201d\n\u00a0\nAs Chairman of the House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Rogers worked to ensure the ongoing modernization of our missile defense, as well as our nuclear and space forces. In addition, he continued his longstanding efforts to help strengthen vital military facilities across East Alabama like the Anniston Army Depot, Maxwell Air Force Base, and Fort Benning.\n\u00a0\nWithin the Strategic Forces subcommittee\u2019s jurisdiction, the bill includes provisions authored by Rogers to ensure the United States is not relying on the space capabilities of China and to prohibit Russia from using U.S. soil for Russian satellite ground stations. \u00a0Additionally, the bill prohibits the exchange of sensitive U.S. missile defense technology with Russia and prohibits the integration of Chinese missile defense technology with U.S. missile defenses, as could be the result of the proposed procurement of such technology by the Republic of Turkey.\n\u00a0\nIn addition, it fully funds the B61 Life Extension Program which is vital to our national security and an important component of both the U.S. strategic deterrent and the extended deterrence guarantees we provide to our allies in Europe and Asia. \u00a0The bill also makes clear that Congress will not provide any funding to implement nuclear force reductions under the New START Treaty unless Congress is fully briefed on the Administration\u2019s plans. \u00a0The legislation increases funding for missile defense by $358 million above the President\u2019s request, including $188 million for Israeli cooperative missile defense programs, including Iron Dome, to ensure the security of our most important allies. \u00a0The bill also provides the continued support and advancement of key national security space programs. \u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0-###-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/house-defense-bill-gets-unanimous-support-alabama-delegation-proposal-includes-1-percent", "House defense bill gets unanimous support from Alabama delegation, proposal includes 1 percent military pay raise", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Alabama's House delegation threw its full support behind the compromise version of this year's defense authorization bill, setting the stage for the measure to go before the Senate just before its end-of-year break. All of Alabama's House delegation voted for the National Defense Authorization Act, which passed on a 350-69 vote after members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committee hammered out an agreement earlier in the month. Alabama Reps. Martha Roby, Mike Rogers and Mo Brooks all serve on the HASC. The Senate will take up the measure Wednesday in an effort to avoid failing to pass an appropriations bill for the first time in more than 50 years. The bill includes $552.1 billion for the Department of Defense base budget and $80.7 billion - about $7.8 billion less than last year -for Overseas Contingency Operations. Roby, R-Montgomery, said the House's success in passing a final bill is \"critical to ensuring the nation's military is properly equipped and postured in 2014. \"Providing for the common defense is our fundamental duty as the Congress,\" Roby said. \"I'm proud to represent two distinguished military installations in Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery and Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass. These installations and others like them around the world will be better able to prepare our men and women in uniform thanks to this year's NDAA.\" Rogers, R-Saks, said the bill is critical to national security. \"The world remains a dangerous place and this bill plays a vital part in guiding our military. I am pleased to see passage of this important bill after a lot of hard work and many long hours,\" said Rogers, whose district includes Anniston Army Depot. Brooks, whose district includes Redstone Arsenal, said the passage of the bill gives the military a needed dose of stability in the wake of a year of across-the-board cutbacks due to sequestration. \"I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act because it provides our troops with the resources they need to carry out today's missions and prepare for future threats. In the wake of sequestration, now more than ever, our warfighters recognize the value of every taxpayer dollar and the need to be good stewards with our resources,\" Brooks said. Key provisions of the bill include: Allows the president to continue with a plan for a 1 percent pay raise for military personnel but rejects increases to Tricare fees. Directs the military to set gender-neutral occupational standards to be used to incorporate women in combat roles. Prohibits the transfer of missile technology to Russia, something Brooks has championed in the budget process. Stops the Russians from installing ground satellite stations in the U.S. Rogers authored the legislation to prevent the stations from being located in the U.S. Prohibits the Pentagon from pursuing another round of Base Realignment and Closure. Stops the transfer of detainees from Guantanamo Bay to the U.S. and prohibits the construction of detainee facilities in the country. Includes funding for the deployment of an East Coast missile defense site.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-applauds-passage-ndaa", "Roby Applauds Passage of NDAA", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R) from Montgomery applauded Thursday\u2019s House passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\u00a0 Rep. Roby said that the bill ensures that the military will proper support in the coming year. The annual bill authorizes funding for military programs and sets policy for the Department of Defense. Representative Roby said, \"Providing for the common defense is our fundamental duty as the Congress.\u00a0 I\u2019m proud to represent two distinguished military installations in Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery and Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass. These installations and others like them around the world will be better able to prepare our men and women in uniform thanks to this year\u2019s NDAA.\" Also on Thursday, House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Chairman Buck McKeon (R) announced that Rep. Roby will be transitioning onto the House Committee on Appropriations and will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee. Chairman McKeon said in a written statement, \u201cLast January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters.\u00a0 With that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do.\" As the Chair of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, Rep. Roby held hearings on: the future of women and girls in Afghanistan and on better posturing of military assets to respond to global threats, such as the terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya last year. Yesterday\u2019s NDAA authorizes funding and gives special guidance to these important areas of focus. The NDAA was passed after negotiators from the House and Senate reached a bipartisan agreement on a final version. The House version of the NDAA in June was passed back in June. The annual bill authorizes funding for military programs and sets policies for the Department of Defense.\u00a0 This is the 52nd consecutive NDAA to be passed by Congress. The budget deal passed late on Thursday means that defense will be spared from a second round of crippling sequestration cuts that would have slowed new weapons programs and led to a further hollowing out of American military capabilities.\nThe bill passed the House in a bipartisan vote of 350 to 69.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=f43929fd-a9a6-40cf-836e-baec729c4ee3", "Shelby Ensures No Taxpayer $ Used for War on Coal in AL", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "www.shelby.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Shelby to Energy Dpt: Ensure No Taxpayer Funds Used for War on Coal in AL\r\n\u00a0\r\nWASHINGTON, DC, Friday, December 13, 2013 \u2013 Amid multiple media reports that the San Francisco-based Energy Foundation funded environmental groups waging a stealth \u201cWar on Coal\u201d in Alabama, U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today wrote a letter to U.S. Secretary of Energy, Ernest Moniz, requesting an accounting of taxpayer funds provided to these same groups through federal grants.\u00a0 The groups bankrolled by the Energy Foundation have disrupted several Alabama Public Service Commission hearings regarding utility rate structures under the pretext of protecting consumers in Alabama.\u00a0\r\n\u201cWhile independent organizations are free to spend their money and advocate in whatever manner that they wish, my concern is that some of the organizations now waging a war against coal in Alabama are also receiving federal funds in the form of grants from your department,\u201d Shelby wrote to Moniz.\u00a0 \u201cAccordingly, I ask that you investigate these organizations\u2019 use of the grant funding that they have received from your department to ensure that they are spending their federal grant dollars in accordance with the law and their intended purpose.\u00a0 I also further ask that you write back to me with your findings in this regard.\u00a0 To assist you in this undertaking, I have enclosed a letter I received from a group of my constituents more fully describing these concerns.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe text of Shelby\u2019s letter to Moniz is below.\u00a0 A PDF copy is attached.\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n***\u00a0\r\n\u00a0December 13, 2013\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Ernest Moniz   Secretary   U.S. Department of Energy   1000 Independence Avenue SW   Washington, DC\u00a0 20585\r\n\r\nDear Mr. Secretary:\r\nI write to express my concern that federal grant funds awarded by the Department of Energy may have been misallocated to improper political advocacy by special interest groups seeking to undermine the coal industry in my home state of Alabama.\r\nRecently, it has come to light that these groups, who previously claimed to be operating at the behest of the people of Alabama, actually received millions of dollars in funding from the San Francisco-based Energy Foundation, which is a \u201cclean energy\u201d advocacy organization that is actively seeking to undermine our domestic coal industry.\u00a0 Not coincidentally, it would seem, these organizations have actively pursued the same anti-coal agenda in Alabama.\r\nAside from the thousands of jobs that the coal industry provides in my state, it is also instrumental in supplying affordable electricity to all of Alabama\u2019s citizens and businesses.\u00a0 The link between affordable electricity and economic growth and job creation is undeniable.\u00a0 Thus, it is of great concern to me when large out-of-state organizations seek to impose their detrimental agenda on the people of the State of Alabama.\u00a0 It is even more concerning still that these organizations could possibly be using taxpayer dollars to do so.\r\nWhile independent organizations are free to spend their money and advocate in whatever manner that they wish, my concern is that some of the organizations now waging a war against coal in Alabama are also receiving federal funds in the form of grants from your department.\u00a0 Accordingly, I ask that you investigate these organizations\u2019 use of the grant funding that they have received from your department to ensure that they are spending their federal grant dollars in accordance with the law and their intended purpose.\u00a0 I also further ask that you write back to me with your findings in this regard.\u00a0 To assist you in this undertaking, I have enclosed a letter I received from a group of my constituents more fully describing these concerns.\r\nI thank you for your time and attention to my request.\u00a0 Should you need any further information please feel free to call upon me at any time.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\n\u00a0\r\nRichard Shelby\r\nUnited States Senator", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-opposes-additional-60-billion-debt-increase", "Brooks Opposes Additional $60 Billion Debt Increase", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-5) concurred with the views of Alabama Senators Richard Shelby 1 and Jeff Sessions 2 and voted against the Murray-Ryan spending bill that busts spending cap agreements and worsens America's projected two-year $1.5 trillion deficit by another $60 billion.  Congressman Brooks stated, While parts of the Murray-Ryan spending deal are attractive, its two-year effects are financially irresponsible. America suffers from a $17 trillion debt and five years of deficits averaging more than $1 trillion/year. Interest on America's debt exceeds $250 billion/year and is projected by the CBO to reach $800 billion/year within a decade, thus jeopardizing our ability to pay for national security, Social Security, and every other federal program. Over the next two years, America's projected deficit approximates $1.5 trillion. The Murray-Ryan spending deal piles another $60 billion in debt onto an already bad deficit situation, making America's finances worse, not better. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mike Mullen warns that debt is our greatest national security threat. America's Comptroller General Gene Dodaro warns that America's deficit and debt path is unsustainable'. Prudence and common sense dictate that America heed these warnings and act responsibly. The Murray-Ryan spending deal does neither and is the wrong path to follow.  Congressman Brooks concluded, The financially irresponsible policies that drove Detroit into bankruptcy run wild in Washington. America can and must do better. For example, the Murray-Ryan spending bill could be fully funded without borrowing a dime if Washington instead cut tens of billions/year in foreign aid, stopped giving illegal aliens more than $4 billion/year in fraudulent tax refunds,3 and stopped making as much as $14 billion/year in unemployment compensation overpayments.4   Other information about the Murray-Ryan spending deal:  It unfairly singles out retired military personnel for disproportionate COLA retirement cuts that no other federal employees must accept. Military personnel who have risked their lives serving America for twenty years should be treated the best, not the worst. The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Marine Corps League, Association of the U.S. Navy, AMVETS, Gold Star Wives, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Assoc. for Uniformed Services, Vietnam Veterans of America, National Guard Assoc. of the U.S., and 18 other veterans organizations oppose the Murray-Ryan spending deal.It rescinds all funds appropriated for replenishment of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, thus cutting America's oil reserves and jeopardizing our economy and country, should America face another 1973-style oil embargo.It raises taxes that hurt America's economy and undermine jobs. For example, it raises $1.2 billion/year in taxes on air travel alone, costing air travel jobs.It raises $790 million/year in taxes on pension benefit plans, thereby decreasing pension funds available for payment to America's retirees.   1 Senator Richard Shelby is the ranking member on the Senate Appropriations Committee. 2 Senator Jeff Sessions is the ranking member on the Senate Budget Committee and served on the conference committee that drafted the Murray-Ryan spending deal (which was presented to Congress despite the absence of a concurring vote by the conference committee).  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140228104300/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1095", "Brooks Opposes Additional $60 Billion Debt Increase", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-5) concurred with the views of Alabama Senators Richard Shelby 1 and Jeff Sessions 2 and voted against the Murray-Ryan spending bill that busts spending cap agreements and worsens America\u2019s projected two-year $1.5 trillion deficit by another $60 billion.\u00a0\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tCongressman Brooks stated, \u201cWhile parts of the Murray-Ryan spending deal are attractive, its two-year effects are financially irresponsible.\u00a0 America suffers from a $17 trillion debt and five years of deficits averaging more than $1 trillion/year. Interest on America\u2019s debt exceeds $250 billion/year and is projected by the CBO to reach $800 billion/year within a decade, thus jeopardizing our ability to pay for national security, Social Security, and every other federal program. Over the next two years, America\u2019s projected deficit approximates $1.5 trillion.\u00a0 The Murray-Ryan spending deal piles another $60 billion in debt onto an already bad deficit situation, making America\u2019s finances worse, not better.\u00a0 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mike Mullen warns that debt is our greatest national security threat.\u00a0 America\u2019s Comptroller General Gene Dodaro warns that America\u2019s deficit and debt path is \u2018unsustainable\u2019.\u00a0 Prudence and common sense dictate that America heed these warnings and act responsibly.\u00a0 The Murray-Ryan spending deal does neither and is the wrong path to follow.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tCongressman Brooks concluded, \u201cThe financially irresponsible policies that drove Detroit into bankruptcy run wild in Washington.\u00a0\u00a0 America can and must do better.\u00a0 For example, the Murray-Ryan spending bill could be fully funded without borrowing a dime if Washington instead cut tens of billions/year in foreign aid, stopped giving illegal aliens more than $4 billion/year in fraudulent tax refunds,3 and stopped making as much as $14 billion/year in unemployment compensation overpayments.4 \u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tOther information about the Murray-Ryan spending deal:\u00a0\n\n\t\u00a0\n \n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tIt unfairly singles out retired military personnel for disproportionate COLA retirement cuts that no other federal employees must accept.\u00a0 Military personnel who have risked their lives serving America for twenty years should be treated the best, not the worst.\u00a0 The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Marine Corps League, Association of the U.S. Navy, AMVETS, Gold Star Wives, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Assoc. for Uniformed Services, Vietnam Veterans of America, National Guard Assoc. of the U.S., and 18 other veterans organizations oppose the Murray-Ryan spending deal.\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tIt rescinds all funds appropriated for replenishment of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, thus cutting America\u2019s oil reserves and jeopardizing our economy and country, should America face another 1973-style oil embargo.\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tIt raises taxes that hurt America\u2019s economy and undermine jobs.\u00a0 For example, it raises $1.2 billion/year in taxes on air travel alone, costing air travel jobs.\u00a0\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tIt raises $790 million/year in taxes on pension benefit plans, thereby decreasing pension funds available for payment to America\u2019s retirees.\n\t\n \n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t1 Senator Richard Shelby is the ranking member on the Senate Appropriations Committee.\n\n\t2 Senator Jeff Sessions is the ranking member on the Senate Budget Committee and served on the conference committee that drafted the Murray-Ryan spending deal (which was presented to Congress despite the absence of a concurring vote by the conference committee).\u00a0\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-applauds-house-passage-national-defense-authorization-act", "Roby Applauds House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The annual bill authorizes funding for military programs and sets policy for the Department of Defense.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\"Providing for the common defense is our fundamental duty as the Congress,\" Rep. Roby said. \"I\u2019m proud to represent two distinguished military installations in Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery and Fort Rucker in the Wiregrass. These installations and others like them around the world will be better able to prepare our men and women in uniform thanks to this year\u2019s NDAA.\"  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tIt was a bittersweet moment for the second term lawmaker from Montgomery, as House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Chairman Buck McKeon pointed out that Rep. Roby is transitioning onto the House Committee on Appropriations and will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cLast January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters,\u201d Chairman McKeon said in a statement. \u201cWith that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do.\"  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tRep. Roby also highlighted two of the NDAA contributions made by her Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations: the future of women and girls in Afghanistan and better posturing of military assets to respond to global threats, such as the terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya last year. The NDAA authorizes funding and gives special guidance toward these important areas of focus.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tThe bill's passage comes after House and Senate negotiators reached an agreement this week on a final version. The House originally passed its version of the NDAA in June. The success of moving a final bill forward is critical to ensuring the nation's military is properly equipped and postured in 2014.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tThis is the 52nd consecutive NDAA to be passed by Congress. Detailed information can be found online here.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tThe bill passed the House by a vote of 350 to 69.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/national-defense-authorization-act-passes-house-brooks-support", "National Defense Authorization Act Passes House with Brooks' Support", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) voted for H.Res. 441, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2014, which includes two provisions previously offered by Brooks. The NDAA passed by a vote of 350 to 69. The first Brooks amendment helps keep America's missile defense program secrets safe, and the second ensures the fair evaluation of competing contractors for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program. The FY14 NDAA authorizes $552.1 billion for the Department of Defense base budget and $80.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations to support current law on troop pay and restore vital readiness accounts to cover underfunded combat operations, among other priorities.  Congressman Brooks said, I voted for the National Defense Authorization Act because it provides our troops with the resources they need to carry out today's missions and prepare for future threats. In the wake of sequestration, now more than ever, our warfighters recognize the value of every taxpayer dollar and the need to be good stewards with our resources.  I'm pleased the FY14 NDAA includes a provision I offered to protect America's $175 billion dollar missile defense program from being irresponsibly used as a bargaining tool. This Administration has proven time and again that they are willing to trade our defense secrets for diplomacy, specifically in regards to Russia. My amendment protects our critical missile defense technologies and strengthens congressional oversight of the Administration to ensure America's classified information is kept safe.  My second NDAA amendment ensures there is a fair evaluation of all contractors who wish to compete for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicleprogram. The amendment requires that the Air Force develop and implement a plan to make certain competing contractors are treated fairly in their bidding for the EELV program. It also helps level the playing field for the United Launch Alliance in Decatur by prohibiting ULA competitors from competing with subpar performance records.  Congressman Brooks is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, sitting on the Strategic Forces and Oversight and Investigations Subcommittees. He is the founder and co-chair of the Army Aviation Caucus.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-affordable-care-act-workshop-clarke", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell to Host Affordable Care Act Workshop in Clarke County", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "GROVE HILL, ALOn Thursday December 19th, the Office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host an Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop in Grove Hill. The workshop will feature general information on the ACA and the health insurance marketplace. Attendees will also hear presentations from navigators which will include information on how to enroll for healthcare coverage.\n\n\tThis event will allow the citizens of the 7th Congressional District to learn more about the benefits of the ACA and the various options that are available, Sewell said. The health and well-being of my constituents remains a top priority. This workshop will assist Alabamians in understanding the enrollment process and provide critical information that will help them make more informed decisions about their healthcare.\n\n\tThis event is the fourth in a series of ACA workshops Rep. Sewell has hosted throughout the 7th Congressional district as part of an initiative to educate constituents on the ACA and the enrollment process.\n\n\tWho: Office of Congresswoman Terri Sewell\n\n\tWhat: Affordable Care Act Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop\n\n\tWhen: Thursday December 19, 2013\n\n\tTime: 5:30 p.m.\n\n\tLocation: Vivian P. Gilmore Senior Center\n\n\t 113 Clark St.\n\n\tGrove Hill, AL. 36451\n\n\tContact : Aneesa McMillan aneesa.mcmillan@mail.house.gov (205) 254-1960", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-votes-favor-bipartisan-budget-agreement", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Votes in Favor of Bipartisan Budget Agreement", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement after voting in favor of H.J. Res 59, the bipartisan budget bill:\n\n\tToday, I voted in favor of H.J. Res 59, the bipartisan budget agreement because it represents an important first step towards fiscal responsibility while mitigating the effects of sequester cuts. After more than three years of partisan brinkmanship, Democrats and Republicans have come together to pass a budget that replaces almost two-thirds of the sequester without cutting Medicare, Medicaid or Social Security benefits. This bipartisan budget compromise sends an important message to the American people that we can and should work together.\n\n\tWhile I am optimistic about this progress, I am very disappointed that this agreement fails to extend unemployment insurance for the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Yesterday, I joined with 173 of my Democratic colleagues in requesting that Congress not adjourn for the year without extending this critical unemployment insurance. I had hoped that this request would be honored by Republican leadership but it was not. Now we leave Washington without providing 1.3 million unemployed Americans with the certainty they and their families need and deserve going into this holiday season. I believe this is a shameful neglect that I hope we will rectify in the new year.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222044959/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=e8b7e712-a34b-7cea-97e0-e2ab54795963", "Sessions Comments On Boeings Decision To Open A New Research Center In Huntsville", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement today after Boeing announced they will be locating a new research and technology center in Huntsville:\n\u00a0\n\u201cI am gratified to hear that Boeing is expanding its commitment to the Huntsville area by developing a new research and technology facility in the community. This will add over 300 jobs by 2015. A top flight work force with great technical skill continues to draw world class businesses. I salute the local leaders in all areas where hard work made this possible.\u201d\n\u00a0\nBACKGROUND:\nThe Boeing research and technology facility in Huntsville will be comprised of: The Center for Simulation and Decision Analytics and The Center for Metals and Chemical Technology. In the restructuring of the company\u2019s Research and Development, Boeing plans to hire 200 people in 2014 and 150-200 in 2015. Huntsville is 1 of 5 new centers along with the states of Washington, South Carolina, California, and Missouri.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140228104501/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1093", "National Defense Authorization Act Passes House with Brooks' Support", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u2013 Today Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) voted for H.Res. 441, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2014, which includes two provisions previously offered by Brooks. The NDAA passed by a vote of 350 to 69. The first Brooks amendment helps keep America\u2019s missile defense program secrets safe, and the second ensures the fair evaluation of competing contractors for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program. The FY14 NDAA authorizes $552.1 billion for the Department of Defense base budget and $80.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations to support current law on troop pay and restore vital readiness accounts to cover underfunded combat operations, among other priorities.\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tCongressman Brooks said, \u201cI voted for the National Defense Authorization Act because it provides our troops with the resources they need to carry out today\u2019s missions and prepare for future threats. In the wake of sequestration, now more than ever, our warfighters recognize the value of every taxpayer dollar and the need to be good stewards with our resources.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t\u201cI\u2019m pleased the FY14 NDAA includes a provision I offered to protect America\u2019s $175 billion dollar missile defense program from being irresponsibly used as a bargaining tool. This Administration has proven time and again that they are willing to trade our defense secrets for diplomacy, specifically in regards to Russia. My amendment protects our critical missile defense technologies and strengthens congressional oversight of the Administration to ensure America\u2019s classified information is kept safe.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t\u201cMy second NDAA amendment ensures there is a fair evaluation of all contractors who wish to compete for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicleprogram.\u00a0 The amendment requires that the Air Force develop and implement a plan to make certain competing contractors are treated fairly in their bidding for the EELV program. It also helps level the playing field for the United Launch Alliance in Decatur by prohibiting ULA competitors from competing with subpar performance records.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tCongressman Brooks is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, sitting on the Strategic Forces and Oversight and Investigations Subcommittees. He is the founder and co-chair of the Army Aviation Caucus.\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/giving-back-across-east-alabama-0", "Giving Back Across East Alabama", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mike Rogers", "R000575", "mike-rogers.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(WASHINGTON, DC)\u2014The Christmas season is in full swing and across East Alabama the giving spirit is alive and well.\n\u00a0\nEach year around the holidays, I like to take the opportunity to highlight a few of the great works going on across our area. \u00a0The following examples are just a sampling of people giving of their time and gifts this year.\n\u00a0\nAs anyone can see from this sampling, folks across our state are always willing to help their neighbor all year long. \u00a0\n\u00a0\nThis November, Yarbrough Elementary School students in Auburn spent their afternoon making decorations for East Alabama Medical Center\u2019s Pediatric Unit. Students hoped to bring some joy to the patients with their cheerful decorations.\n\u00a0\nIn Pell City, the Leadership St. Clair Class of 2013 and the Pell City Garden Club joined forces this Spring to obtain and dedicate a Blue Star Marker for the Col. Robert L. Howard Veterans Home. The Blue Star Marker is a tribute to all those who serve in the Armed Forces.\u00a0\n\u00a0\nIn LaFayette, Ms. Carolyn Edge Wheeler has dedicated herself to the upkeep of the town\u2019s historic Square and City Cemetery. She and her team of volunteers have selflessly maintained LaFayette and collected donations for its upkeep.\u00a0\n\u00a0\nIn St. Clair County, 55 Gorbel employees sent heartfelt Holiday cards to unknown soldiers and Veterans. These warm messages thank the troops for their sacrifices while wishing them Happy Holidays.\n\u00a0\nAnd in Macon County, I had the unique opportunity to present a Congressional Gold Medal to Mr. Robert Freeman, a surviving member of the Montford Point Marines. His service and sacrifice is something we all can admire. \u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\nMay these selfless acts be examples of how we should live all year long. Merry Christmas to you and your families!\n\u00a0\nContact me on this or any issue at mike-rogers.house.gov, like me on Facebook at Congressman Mike D. Rogers, follow me on Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram at RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page at MikeRogersAL03.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-no-us-ground-stations-russia", "Rogers: No U.S. Ground-Stations for Russia", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mike Rogers", "R000575", "mike-rogers.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(WASHINGTON) \u2013 U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, announced today legislation was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 (Section 1602) to impose new restrictions on President Obama to limit his ability to approve locating ground-stations for Russia\u2019s GLONASS system in the United States, as the State Department had reportedly proposed to do.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 GLONASS is a Russian competitor to the U.S. Air Force\u2019s Global Positioning System (GPS) and is known to be a personal priority of Russian President Vladimir Putin. \u00a0Locating Russian-controlled global satellite ground monitoring stations in the United States creates the risk that Russia could locate electronic intelligence gathering equipment in those ground stations. \u00a0This Russian proposal is reportedly backed by the State Department but has drawn the concerns of the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Intelligence Community (IC).\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Rogers was the first Member of Congress to challenge this Russian proposal when he sent a letter in early November to Secretary Hagel, Secretary Kerry and General Clapper expressing his concerns over this issue and referencing the concerns of the DOD and IC. \u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u201cIt is unconscionable to me that the State Department would consider allowing Russia to locate these capabilities on our soil. \u00a0Any one of my kids would have no problem seeing the risks. \u00a0I am pleased I was able to ensure this legislation included in the NDAA,\u201d Rogers said.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 The provision would be in effect until 2019, ensuring this protection lasts until President Obama leaves office. \u00a0The House is expected to take up the NDAA this week.\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 -###-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/alabama-delegation-backs-bentley-proposal-lure-new-aerospace-jobs", "Alabama Delegation Backs Bentley Proposal to Lure New Aerospace Jobs", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Alabama Congressional delegation today issued a bipartisan statement of support for Governor Robert Bentley's proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., to build the aerospace giant's planned 777X aircraft in the state. \u00a0Huntsville, Alabama is among the locations currently under consideration by Boeing. \u00a0Today is the submission deadline for competing bids by states in the running to land the work.\nJoining Senators Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) on the following statement were Congressmen Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville), Spencer Bachus (R-Vestavia Hills), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Martha Roby (R-Montgomery), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham):\n\u201cHuntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama\u2019s workforce is second to none.\u00a0 There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations.\u00a0 We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.\u201d\nOn November 22, 2013, the Alabama delegation wrote a letter to McNerney detailing the state's strong case as the prime location to build the 777X. \u00a0The delegation highlighted Boeing\u2019s significant existing footprint in North Alabama, which boasts a business-friendly environment that includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\u00a0 The letter also points to world-class engineering and science facilities at Alabama\u2019s universities statewide that are producing an abundance of highly skilled workers that would be required to fill the jobs created.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=31fad212-7a26-48d4-ae41-86969339636b", "AL Delegation Backs Bentley Proposal to Lure New Aerospace Jobs", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "www.shelby.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C., Tuesday, December 10, 2013 -- The Alabama Congressional delegation today issued a bipartisan statement of support for Governor Robert Bentley's proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., to build the aerospace giant's planned 777X aircraft in the state. \u00a0Huntsville, Alabama is among the locations currently under consideration by Boeing. \u00a0Today is the submission deadline for competing bids by states in the running to land the work.\r\nJoining Senators Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) on the following statement were Congressmen Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville), Spencer Bachus (R-Vestavia Hills), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Martha Roby (R-Montgomery), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham):\r\n\u201cHuntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama\u2019s workforce is second to none.\u00a0 There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations.\u00a0 We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.\u201d\r\nOn November 22, 2013, the Alabama delegation wrote a letter to McNerney detailing the state's strong case as the prime location to build the 777X. \u00a0The delegation highlighted Boeing\u2019s significant existing footprint in North Alabama, which boasts a business-friendly environment that includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\u00a0 The letter also points to world-class engineering and science facilities at Alabama\u2019s universities statewide that are producing an abundance of highly skilled workers that would be required to fill the jobs created.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-bill-protect-funding-key-nasa-programs-passes-committee-bipartisan", "Brooks' Bill to Protect Funding for Key NASA Programs Passes Committee with Bipartisan Support", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today the Science Space and Technology Committee passed H.R. 3625, a bill introduced by Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL), on a bipartisan, unanimous vote, thus clearing the way for full House consideration of the bill. H.R. 3625 prohibits the Administration from canceling the Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, or the James Webb Space Telescope without congressional consent. In addition, H.R. 3625 frees up over a half a billion dollars in already appropriated funding for work on the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope.Watch video of Brooks' committee remarks here.Congressman Brooks said, According to the latest report from NASA, as of October 2013, SLS, Orion, Space Station and James Webb Space Telescope contractors are required to withhold $589 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $589 million for productive work on SLS, Orion, the Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope. Brooks added, I'm pleased the Committee chose to move forward with a full committee vote and passage of this important legislation. In a time of budget constraints, passage of this bill is one way to help ensure that vital NASA work stays on schedule. I'm also pleased the Committee agreed to the request of Rep. Donna Edwards (D-MD) to add the James Webb Space Telescope to our list of high priority protected programs. Rep. Edwards stated, I want to thank my colleague Mr. Brooks for his graciousness in working with me to come to an agreement on the language of this amendment and to clarify our intent. She continued, In fact, bipartisanship as we know takes effort, it takes a willingness to compromise, and I am really encouraged by the outcome of the collaborative discussions we have had over this last week between members and their staff as well as between the majority and the minority committee staff.\" Brooks concluded, Rather than withholding scarce funds for termination liability, which creates delays that drive up long-term costs, H.R. 3625 frees up these vital resources to help ensure that the Orion Crew Capsule, Space Launch System, International Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope will all move forward on schedule, thereby helping to preserve and promote American exceptionalism in space. Click here to read a copy of H.R. 3625. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050013/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=e2624772-ba49-9cdf-b723-7e0f3886ec1f", "Sessions Leads Bipartisan Effort To Protect Victims Of Child Abuse", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement today after joining Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) to introduce a bill to reauthorize the Victims of Child Abuse Act (VOCAA):\n\u00a0\n\u201cAs a former prosecutor and Attorney General, I have seen firsthand the dramatic impact that Children\u2019s Advocacy Centers have made in improving our nation\u2019s response to these terrible crimes. Since the Victims of Child Abuse Act was introduced more than two decades ago we have seen substantial improvements in the investigation of these heinous acts and the vital care provided to child victims.\u00a0Protecting our children is the highest moral duty we have. I am proud that the first Children\u2019s Advocacy Center is in Huntsville\u2014this amazing organization does such crucial work on behalf of our nation\u2019s children. \n\u00a0\nThe Victims of Child Abuse Act plays a critical role in protecting our nation\u2019s children and we must reauthorize it. I am grateful to Senators Coons, Hirono, and Blunt for joining in this effort.\u201d\n\u00a0\nBACKGROUND:\nThe Victims of Child Abuse Act provides funding to local Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) across the nation, as well as the Regional Children\u2019s Advocacy Center programs, the National Children\u2019s Alliance, the National Children\u2019s Advocacy Center and other programs serving child abuse victims. The Congressional Budget Office released an informal overview stating that it would not have a budgetary impact on spending or revenue. CACs take a multi-disciplinary approach to responding to child abuse by coordinating the efforts of medical, mental health, victim advocacy, law enforcement, and prosecutorial agencies.\u00a0In the 1980s, former Congressman Robert\u00a0\u201cBud\u201d Cramer, Jr. of Alabama recognized the urgent need for improved responses to child abuse and Cramer (then a District Attorney) helped found the first CAC in Huntsville. Due to the enormous difference they\u2019ve made, CACs have expanded to over 850 locations across the county.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140228104706/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1092", "Brooks' Bill to Protect Funding for Key NASA Programs Passes Committee with Bipartisan Support", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u2013 Today the Science Space and Technology Committee passed H.R. 3625, a bill introduced by Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL), on a bipartisan, unanimous vote, thus clearing the way for full House consideration of the bill. H.R. 3625 prohibits the Administration from canceling the Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, or the James Webb Space Telescope without congressional consent.\n\n\tIn addition, H.R. 3625 frees up over a half a billion dollars in already appropriated funding for work on the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, International Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope.\n\n\t\n\n\tWatch video of Brooks\u2019 committee remarks here.\n\n\tCongressman Brooks said, \u201cAccording to the latest report from NASA, as of October 2013, SLS, Orion, Space Station and James Webb Space Telescope contractors are required to withhold $589 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $589 million for productive work on SLS, Orion, the Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope.\u201d\n\n\tBrooks added, \u201cI\u2019m pleased the Committee chose to move forward with a full committee vote and passage of this important legislation. In a time of budget constraints, passage of this bill is one way to help ensure that vital NASA work stays on schedule. I\u2019m also pleased the Committee agreed to the request of Rep. Donna Edwards (D-MD) to add the James Webb Space Telescope to our list of high priority protected programs.\u201d\n\n\tRep. Edwards stated, \u201cI want to thank my colleague Mr. Brooks for his graciousness in working with me to come to an agreement on the language of this amendment and to clarify our intent.\u201d She continued, \u201cIn fact, bipartisanship as we know takes effort, it takes a willingness to compromise, and I am really encouraged by the outcome of the collaborative discussions we have had over this last week between members and their staff as well as between the majority and the minority committee staff.\"\n\n\tBrooks concluded, \u201cRather than withholding scarce funds for termination liability, which creates delays that drive up long-term costs, H.R. 3625 frees up these vital resources to help ensure that the Orion Crew Capsule, Space Launch System, International Space Station, and James Webb Space Telescope will all move forward on schedule, thereby helping to preserve and promote American exceptionalism in space.\u201d\n\n\tClick here to read a copy of H.R. 3625.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140307163951/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=a9441a7f-91d7-4c5e-9bf7-e9ad9dd53cea", "Yellowhammer: Congressional delegation sends message to Boeing: 'Alabama is second to none'", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Cliff Sims \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tThe Alabama Congressional delegation has issued a bipartisan statement of support for Gov. Robert Bentley\u2019s proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., to build the aerospace giant\u2019s planned 777X aircraft in the state.\n\"Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama\u2019s workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.\"\nSigning on to the statement were Senators Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, and Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile, along with Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, Mike Rogers, R-Saks, Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham.\nThe statement comes just weeks after the delegation\u00a0wrote a letter to Boeing\u2019s CEO\u00a0touting Alabama\u2019s \u201chigh-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\u201d\nAlabama submitted its proposal to Boeing on Monday, a day ahead of the submission deadline. Huntsville, Ala. is one of at least 15 locations currently being considered by Boeing.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164009/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=ddc4e8ea-903c-4dae-8ba5-cd2630fb1e85", "AL.com: Washington lawmakers ramp up the pressure to keep Boeing in the state", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "In a Dec. 9 letter to Boeing leadership, the bipartisan delegation that includes Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and 10 Representatives touts the state's history with Boeing and its plans for the future.\n\"Washington is the aerospace capital of the world, and our delegation is committed to ensuring that the aerospace industry can continue to grow in Washington state,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"While we recognize that the Boeing Company faces an increasingly competitive environment and must undertake a thorough process to determine where to place production, we are confident that a full analysis of options will show that Washington state stands apart from the competition.\"\nThe delegation - which refers to itself as the \"aerospace industry's strongest allies and loudest advocates in Congress\" - said the state has proven its commitment to Boeing despite the recent contract rejection by a machinists union that has led the union to shop around production of the next-generation 777X.\nAlabama is one about\u00a015 states vying for the facility.\u00a0Boeing has met with Alabama officials about locating the plant in Huntsville, where is already has a sizeable engineering presence.\nThe Herald of Everett, Wash. said the following states\u00a0had\u00a0publicly\u00a0announcedthey would make a bid for Boeing: Alabama, Arizona, California, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin.\nThe Washington lawmakers point to their work on behalf of Boeing in the fight to land the Air Force's KC-46A Refueling Tanker contract, the 2012 reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank and their work to land a $20 million federal workforce grant to train more than 2,600 workers in advanced aerospace assembly.\n\"As our delegation's support illustrates, support for aerospace manufacturing in Washington is not just statewide, it is miles wide and miles deep,\" lawmakers wrote.\nWashington lawmakers aren't the only ones courting the aerospace giant. Alabama lawmakers\u00a0sent their second letter yesterday\u00a0touting the benefits of bringing the plant to Huntsville.\nSens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell issued the following statement Tuesday:\n\"Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama's workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.\"\nThe battle for Boeing has emerged to the forefront in states hoping to land the facility.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-lawmakers-continue-push-attract-boeing-huntsville", "Alabama lawmakers continue push to attract Boeing to Huntsville", "2013-12-10", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With Alabama's offer to Boeing reportedly in the company's hands, the state's Congressional delegation is continuing its push to land the 777X production plant for Huntsville. The delegation issued a bipartisan statement of support today for Gov. Robert Bentley's proposal to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO James McNerney Jr. Details of the plan have not been released and Alabama is reportedly among 15 states vying for the $10 billion facility and its 8,500 jobs. The statement was issued by Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell. The lawmakers said: \"Huntsville is a world leader in aerospace and aviation innovation, and Alabama's workforce is second to none. There is simply no better place for Boeing to locate its new 777X design, manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly operations. We commend the city and state for so aggressively pursuing this economic development opportunity and stand ready to support these efforts in any way possible.\" The statement comes on the heels of a Nov. 22 letter from the delegation which highlighted Boeing's existing footprint in North Alabama and the area's business-friendly environment. The letter also pointed to the available workforce in the Huntsville area and the available training programs.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-questions-sec-kerry-iran-nuclear-weapons-and-israels-security", "Brooks Questions Sec. Kerry on Iran Nuclear Weapons and Israel's Security", "2013-12-10", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05), at a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, questioned U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry concerning America's nuclear agreement with Iran and its impact on Israel's security. After citing the desire of Iran's President to wipe Israel off the page of time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's comment that the Iran agreement is not an historic agreement; it is an historic mistake, and America's need to avoid repeating the 1930's Neville Chamberlain-like pattern of appeasement and retreat that helped trigger World War II and the deaths of tens of millions of people around the world, Congressman Brooks asked Secretary Kerry what can you say to Israel and the rest of our allies in the Middle East to convince them that America is still a reliable ally and that America will enforce agreements with Iran. Secretary Kerry answered Congressman Brooks by reminding the Committee of everything America has done in the Middle East, and elsewhere, on behalf of our allies that justifies their continued reliance on America. Congressman Brooks concluded by thanking Secretary Kerry and stating, In April 2009, President Obama said in Prague, Rules must be binding. Violations must be punished. Words must mean something.' If there's anything I can do to assist you in that regard with respect to these agreements, please let me know.For video of the Q&A, clickHERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-joins-us-congressional-delegation-memorial", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Joins U.S. Congressional Delegation to Memorial Services for Former South African President Nelson Mandela", "2013-12-10", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell is attending memorial services for former South African President Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, South Africa. Sewell was included in a U.S. delegation of 23 members of congress.\n\n\tNelson Mandela inspired not just a nation, but the entire world. His legacy serves as a compelling reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and equality for all across the globe, said Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell. As one of the millions throughout the world inspired by his sacrifices and achievements, I am honored to share with South Africa and my congressional colleagues in commemorating the life and legacy of one of history's most inspirational and courageous freedom fighters.\n\n\tRead Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell'sstatementon the passing of Nelson Mandela.\n\n\t###\n\n\tThe following is a list of the members of congress who have traveled to South Africa on the congressional delegation:\n\n\tDels. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D.C.) and Donna Christensen (V.I.); Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill), Sen. Ted Cruz (TX) and Reps. Marcia Fudge, John Conyers (Mich.), Charles Rangel (N.Y.), John Lewis, Jim McDermott (Wash.), Maxine Waters (Calif.), Bobby Scott (Va.), Mel Watt (N.C.), Sheila Jackson-Lee (Tex.), Elijah Cummings (Md.), Gregory Meeks (N.Y.), Barbara Lee (Calif.), G. K. Butterfield (N.C.), Gene Green (Tex.), Gwen Moore (Wis.), Yvette Clarke (N.Y.), Karen Bass (Calif.), Joyce Beatty (Ohio) and Terri Sewell (Ala.).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045025/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=dd0a2c31-9f65-2074-bc9e-4e1c2ee80e62", "Sessions Issues Statement On States Boeing Proposal, Praises Huntsvilles World Renowned Workforce", "2013-12-10", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement today after Governor Robert Bentley submitted a proposal to Boeing to build the 777x twin-engine jet in Huntsville:\n\u00a0\n\u201cI am pleased to hear that Governor Bentley has submitted Alabama\u2019s proposal to build the Boeing 777x jetliner in Huntsville. Huntsville has an exceptional workforce and is rightfully on Boeing\u2019s short list of destinations. The Huntsville region is already a leader in our nation\u2019s defense and has the capable engineers, analysts, and production workers necessary to be a world renowned center for aerospace aviation. Boeing has a solid foundation and established partnership in Huntsville and I am proud of the hard work by state and local officials to push for the 777x facility which will reportedly add 8,500 jobs and serve as an important pillar of the economy in north Alabama.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby%E2%80%99s-move-appropriations-committee-popular-alabama-constituents", "Roby\u2019s Move to Appropriations Committee Popular with Alabama Constituents", "2013-12-09", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Thursday, Representative Martha Roby's (R) from Montgomery office released quotes from officials and residents from across Alabama\u2019s Second Congressional District reacting to the conservative congresswoman's move to the Appropriations Committee, which is charged with overseeing federal spending.\nMayor Todd Strange of Montgomery said, \"I was delighted to hear Rep. Roby will be joining the Appropriations Committee. Her influence and access to decision makers has been a tremendous help to Montgomery, and I know that will only increase with her new role on the Appropriations Committee.\u201d\nMayor Strange continued, \"Her work was instrumental for Maxwell maintaining the 908th Airlift Wing. And this coming Monday we'll have a high-ranking and influential Member of the Armed Services Committee in town to tour Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, a visit Martha arranged. That just shows how well she utilizes her influence to help the community,. I'm confident she will bring her proactive attitude and initiative to the Appropriations Committee working to do what is best for Montgomery, but also what's best for America.\"\nThe President of the Alabama Farmers Federation, Jimmy Parnell said, \"Congressman Roby has done an outstanding job representing Alabama farmers on the Ag Committee for the past three years. Her work on the farm bill and other issues important to our members has been extremely valuable. While we regret losing such a strong advocate on the Ag Committee, we are very pleased she will be joining Congressman Robert Aderholt [R-Ala.] on the House Committee on Appropriations. I'm convinced serving on this committee will allow Congressman Roby to continue to be a great champion of Alabama farmers. Her common-sense approach to reducing deficit spending, while recognizing the important role farmers play in feeding our nation, makes her a perfect fit for this important new committee assignment.\u201d\nThe Chairman and CEO of AAA Cooper Transportation Inc. and Member of Friends of Fort Rucker Mack Dove said, \u201cRepresentative Roby\u2019s move to the Appropriations Committee is a major win for Fort Rucker and the entire Wiregrass community. It\u2019s important to note that Fort Rucker has never had Congressional representation on the House Appropriations Committee. Roby understands how important Fort Rucker is to our local economy, and she has continually worked with military officials in Washington to protect Fort Rucker. With her new seat on the Appropriations Committee, Rep. Roby will be even better positioned to look out for Fort Rucker and our local communities.\u201d\nTroy Mayor Jason Reeves said, \"The news of Rep. Roby's appointment to the House Committee on Appropriations is great for the city of Troy, the Second Congressional District, and our nation as a whole. Rep Roby\u2019s commitment to public service and her strong conservative fiscal principals are a perfect fit on this vitally important committee. Her service will greatly benefit our district and the diverse issues that impact it. I'm grateful for Martha's willingness to serve us in this key role.\"\nThe President of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Matt Parker said, \u201cWe are extremely pleased with Representative Roby's move to the Appropriations Committee. We could not be more proud of Representative Roby for her continued success and work to provide leadership that will contribute greatly to sound policies that are in the best interest of the United States and our area.\u201d\nThe Mayor of Eufaula Jack Tibbs said, \u201cRep. Roby has been of great assistance to the City of Eufaula during her term of office. We are excited about her new appointment to the Appropriations Committee. She has proven time and time again she can get the job done. Martha has been influential in Eufaula on several occasions and we always know we can turn to her if needed. She takes a common-sense approach to matters at hand, and is a proven leader. The City of Eufaula congratulates her on this critical assignment.\u201d\nAlabama Farmers Federation Southeast Area Vice President and Houston County Farmer, George Jeffcoat said, \u201cRep. Roby has been a great friend to farmers while serving on the Agriculture Committee. Knowing her conservative values, I look forward to Roby serving on the House Appropriations Committee. This prestigious committee appointment will provide Roby with the opportunity to still represent farmers and to guide this nation to a time of responsible funding of government programs.\u201d\nRep. Roby is also popular with her Republican Congressional colleagues.\nThe Chairman of the House Armed Service Committee, Representative Buck McKeon (R) from California said, \u201cLast January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters.\u00a0 With that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do.\u201d\nThe Chairman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Representative John Kline (R) from Minnesotta said, \u201cMartha Roby has been a valuable member of the Education and the Workforce Committee. From leading Republican efforts to promote work-life balance to helping us successfully advance legislation to restore state and local control in education, Martha has been a champion for families, businesses, and schools. I know she will continue to promote the best interests of students, workers, job creators, and taxpayers in her new role as a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\u201d\nRep. Roby said that, \u201cCongress is working in a budget-constrained environment for the foreseeable future, and we must make sure every dollar spent is spent wisely,\" she said. \"After numerous discussions with senior colleagues in Congress and stakeholders in my state, I\u2019m convinced having a seat on the Appropriations Committee will afford me more\u2013 not less \u2013 influence on issues that matter to the people of Alabama\u2019s Second District.\u201d\nCongresswoman Roby is seeking a third term representing Alabama's Second District next year.\u00a0 At this point, it appears that she will not face serious opposition.\u00a0\nMontgomery City Councilwoman Martha Roby narrowly unseated incumbent Democratic Congressman Bobby Bright in 2010, but crushed her poorly funded Democratic opponent in 2012.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-affordable-care-act-workshop-dallas", "Congresswoman Terri Sewell to host Affordable Care Act Workshop in Dallas County", "2013-12-09", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SELMA, ALOn Wednesday December 11th, the office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host an Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop in Selma. The workshop will feature general information on the ACA and the health insurance marketplace. Attendees will also hear presentations from navigators which will include information on how to enroll for healthcare coverage. \nThis event will allow the citizens of the 7th Congressional District to learn more about the benefits of the ACA and the various options that are available, Sewell said. The health and well-being of my constituents remains a top priority. This workshop will assist Alabamians in understanding the enrollment process and provide critical information that will help them make more informed decisions about their healthcare.\nThis event is the third in a series of ACA workshops Rep. Sewell has hosted throughout the 7th Congressional district as part of an initiative to educate constituents on the ACA and the enrollment process.\nWho: Office of Congresswoman Terri Sewell\nWhat:Affordable Care Act Marketplace Education and Enrollment Workshop\nWhen:Wednesday December 11, 2013\nTime:  5:30 p.m.\nLocation: Brown Chapel AME Church\n 410 Martin Luther King St.\n  Selma, AL. 36703", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/what-theyre-saying-officials-local-residents-weigh-roby%E2%80%99s-move-appropriations", "What They're Saying: Officials, Local Residents Weigh-in on Roby\u2019s Move to Appropriations Committee", "2013-12-06", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Officials and residents from across Alabama\u2019s Second Congressional District are reacting to U.S. Representative Martha Roby\u2019s (R-AL) move to the Appropriations Committee \u2013 and the response is overwhelmingly positive. \u00a0  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tIt was announced yesterday that Rep. Roby will serve on the House Committee on Appropriations, which is charged with overseeing federal spending. Here\u2019s what they're saying about Rep. Roby\u2019s new committee post:  \n\t\u00a0  Representative Buck McKeon (R-CA), Chairman, House Armed Services Committee \u201cLast January, when it came time to do our subcommittee assignments, Martha was an obvious choice. As Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, she wasted no time becoming one of my most trusted and valued members. I entrusted her with critical assignments, including assessing how the Department of Defense responded to the Benghazi terrorist attacks and other important ongoing matters.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cWith that said, I am very pleased to hear her talents will be put to good use on the Appropriations Committee. I know the people of Alabama appreciate her as much as I do, and I know Appropriations will find her national security prowess as valuable as I do.\" Representative John Kline (R-MN), Chairman, House Committee on Education and the Workforce \u201cMartha Roby has been a valuable member of the Education and the Workforce Committee. From leading Republican efforts to promote work-life balance to helping us successfully advance legislation to restore state and local control in education, Martha has been a champion for families, businesses, and schools. I know she will continue to promote the best interests of students, workers, job creators, and taxpayers in her new role as a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\u201d Todd Strange, Mayor of Montgomery \"I was delighted to hear Rep. Roby will be joining the Appropriations Committee. Her influence and access to decision makers has been a tremendous help to Montgomery, and I know that will only increase with her new role on the Appropriations Committee.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\"Her work was instrumental for Maxwell maintaining the 908th Airlift Wing. And this coming Monday we'll have a high-ranking and influential Member of the Armed Services Committee in town to tour Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, a visit Martha arranged. That just shows how well she utilizes her influence to help the community,. I'm confident she will bring her proactive attitude and initiative to the Appropriations Committee working to do what is best for Montgomery, but also what's best for America.\"\nMike Schmitz, Mayor of Dothan\n\"Dothan and the Wiregrass should be very proud of Martha Roby.\u00a0 Because of her hard work and dedication, her move to the Appropriations Committee will help during these difficult times not only at Fort Rucker, which is essential, but in areas that affect all of us.\"\nJason Reeves, Mayor of Troy \"The news of Rep. Roby's appointment to the House Committee on Appropriations is great for the city of Troy, the Second Congressional District, and our nation as a whole. Rep Roby\u2019s commitment to public service and her strong conservative fiscal principals are a perfect fit on this vitally important committee. Her service will greatly benefit our district and the diverse issues that impact it. I'm grateful for Martha's willingness to serve us in this key role.\" Jack Tibbs, Mayor of Eufaula \u201cRep. Roby has been of great assistance to the City of Eufaula during her term of office. We are excited about her new appointment to the Appropriations Committee. She has proven time and time again she can get the job done. Martha has been influential in Eufaula on several occasions and we always know we can turn to her if needed. She takes a common-sense approach to matters at hand, and is a proven leader. The City of Eufaula congratulates her on this critical assignment.\u201d Jimmy Parnell, Alabama Farmers Federation President \"Congressman Roby has done an outstanding job representing Alabama farmers on the Ag Committee for the past three years. Her work on the farm bill and other issues important to our members has been extremely valuable. While we regret losing such a strong advocate on the Ag Committee, we are very pleased she will be joining Congressman Robert Aderholt [R-Ala.] on the House Committee on Appropriations. I'm convinced serving on this committee will allow Congressman Roby to continue to be a great champion of Alabama farmers. Her common-sense approach to reducing deficit spending, while recognizing the important role farmers play in feeding our nation, makes her a perfect fit for this important new committee assignment.\u201d Matt Parker, President of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce \u201cWe are extremely pleased with Representative Roby's move to the Appropriations Committee.\u00a0 We could not be more proud of Representative Roby for her continued success and work to provide leadership that will contribute greatly\u00a0 to sound policies that are in the best interest of the United States and our area.\u201d  \n\t\u00a0  Mack Dove, Chairman and CEO of AAA Cooper Transportation Inc. and Member of Friends of Fort Rucker \u201cRepresentative Roby\u2019s move to the Appropriations Committee is a major win for Fort Rucker and the entire Wiregrass community. It\u2019s important to note that Fort Rucker has never had Congressional representation on the House Appropriations Committee. Roby understands how important Fort Rucker is to our local economy, and she has continually worked with military officials in Washington to protect Fort Rucker. With her new seat on the Appropriations Committee, Rep. Roby will be even better positioned to look out for Fort Rucker and our local communities.\u201d  \n\t\u00a0  George Jeffcoat, Houston County Farmer and Alabama Farmers Federation Southeast Area Vice President \u201cRep. Roby has been a great friend to farmers while serving on the Agriculture Committee. Knowing her conservative values, I look forward to Roby serving on the House Appropriations Committee. This prestigious committee appointment will provide Roby with the opportunity to still represent farmers and to guide this nation to a time of responsible funding of government programs.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/defense-intelligence-heavyweight-coming-alabama-monday", "Defense & Intelligence heavyweight coming to Alabama Monday", "2013-12-06", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Alabama\u2019s Maxwell Air Force base will play host to one of the country\u2019s top defense and intelligence leaders next week in House Armed Service Committee Vice Chairman Mac Thornberry. Reps. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Mike Rogers, R-Sachs, recently invited Thornberry to visit Alabama. At the time, both Roby and Rogers were members of the Armed Services Committee. Roby has since then landed a spot on the coveted Appropriations Committee, which has broad oversight over government spending levels for the military as well as all other areas of the federal government. In taking that position, Roby gave up her spot on Armed Services and a couple of other committees. The visit from Thornberry, which is a big deal for Alabama\u2019s military installations, is even more important now as Thornberry is well-positioned to take over as the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Current chairman Buck McKeon, R-CA, is nearing retirement and has publicly backed Thornberry as his successor. Yellowhammer caught up with Thornberry this morning by phone to hear why it was important for him to schedule a time to visit Alabama. \u201cI\u2019m coming, first of all, because Martha and Mike invited me, and they\u2019re important to me. I\u2019ve been hearing about Maxwell for years, but you can\u2019t have a full appreciation for some things without seeing them first hand,\u201d Thornberry said. \u201cI want to learn how sequestration and other budget cuts are effecting Maxwell specifically. The military has been through a lot recently, and I need to see how things are going on the ground.\u201d The Armed Services Committee writes the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) every year, which authorizes the budget authority of the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy. That makes Thornberry a particularly important player when it comes to Alabama\u2019s military bases and the economic impact they have on the state. \u201cI\u2019m currently vice chairman on the committee, so I work in partnership with the chairman on everything the committee does. He\u2019s been great about making it a true partnership. I\u2019m also chairman of the subcommittee that oversees military intelligence, special operations, research and development, cyber security and a lot of things that focus on the future. Space and other things are important to me \u2014 the present and future domain of warfare, as well as cyber. In addition to that, I\u2019m the second ranking member of the Intelligence Committee. Having all of those responsibilities helps me get a full picture of everything that\u2019s going on.\u201d Thornberry said that he was disappointed to lose Roby as a member of Armed Services, but believes her transition to Appropriations will allow her to play and even bigger role in supporting Alabama\u2019s military mission. \u201cI\u2019m sorry to lose her. I was in the room when they voted her in as a new member of Appropriations and I almost had a \u2018speak-now-or-forever-hold-your-peace\u2019 moment,\u201d Thornberry joked. \u201cBut Appropriations plays a key role in Armed Services. It\u2019s great to have someone who really understands national security issues on the Appropriations committee, and Martha definitely does. On top of that, Mike Rogers is still on Armed Services. He\u2019s really a key player. He\u2019s not shy about speaking up for Maxwell and the other military installations in Alabama.\u201d Rep. Thornberry will be in Montgomery on Monday.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-accepts-position-house-committee-appropriations", "Roby accepts position on House Committee on Appropriations", "2013-12-06", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Local U.S. Representative Martha Roby accepted an assignment to the House Committee on Appropriations Dec. 4.\n\tRoby said the position will be a challenging responsibility but one that provides a unique opportunity for Alabama's Second Congressional District.\n\t\"I am honored to accept a position on the House Committee on Appropriations, and I appreciate the confidence my colleagues have placed in me by selecting me to serve in this capacity,\" Roby said. \"Appropriations has oversight on the whole range of government spending. This new role provides a unique opportunity to push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations.\"\n\tRoby's assignment became official after it was approved by the House Republican Steering Committee on Dec. 4.\n\tTwo other members of Congress Reps. Mark Amodei, of Nev.; and Chris Stewart, of Utah; also received assignments to the committee.\n\tThe vacancies were created by the resignations of Reps. Jo Bonner, of Ala.; Rodney Alexander, of La.; and the death of Rep. Bill Young, of Fla.\n\tAppropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers, of Ky., welcomed the new members in a statement.\n\t\"I am pleased to welcome representatives Amodei, Roby and Stewart to the committee and look forward to working side-by-side with them as we tackle our formidable work ahead. Member of the Appropriations Committee have tough jobs to do, and have a great responsibility to properly fund the federal government and support the well-being of the nation,: Rogers said. \"These dedicated public servants have proven their commitment to the responsible shepherding of federal tax dollars, to the regular appropriations process, and to both the people of their districts and the American people as a whole.\"\n\tWith this move, Roby will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Agriculture Committee, or the House Education and the Workforce Committee.\n\tRoby said, however, she remains committed to supporting the district's unique military, agriculture and educational interests.\n\t\"Congress is working in a budget-constrained environment for the foreseeable future and we must make sure every dollar is spent wisely,\" she said. \"After numerous discussions with senior colleagues in Congress and stakeholders in my state, I'm convinced having a seat on the Appropriations Committee will afford me more, not less, influence on issues that matter to the people of Alabama's Second District.\"\n\tMack Dove, chairman and chief executive officer for AAA Cooper Transportation and member of Friends of Fort Rucker called her appointment to the Appropriations Committee a major win for Fort Rucker.\n\t\"It's important to not that Fort Rucker has never had congressional representation on the House Appropriations Committee,\" he said. \"Roby understands how important Fort Rucker is to our local economy, and she has continuously worked with military officials in Washington to protect Fort Rucker. With her new seat on the Appropriations Committee, Rep. Roby will be even better positioned to look out for Fort Rucker and our local communities.\"\n\tTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-roby-joins-appropriations-committee", "Rep. Roby joins Appropriations Committee", "2013-12-05", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, who represents Covington County as part of Alabama\u2019s Second Congressional District, on\u00a0Wednesday accepted an assignment to the House Committee on Appropriations.\n\u201cI am honored to accept a position on the House Committee on Appropriations, and I appreciate the confidence\u00a0my colleagues\u00a0have placed in me by selecting me to serve in this capacity,\u201d Rep. Roby said. \u201cAppropriations has oversight on the whole range of government spending.\nThis new role provides a unique opportunity to push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations.\u201d\nRep. Roby\u2019s assignment became official after it was approved by the House Republican Steering Committee. Two other Members of Congress \u2013\u00a0Rep.. Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Chris Stewart (R-UT) \u2013 also received assignments to the committee. The vacancies were created by the\u00a0resignations of Reps.\u00a0Jo Bonner (R-AL) and\u00a0Rodney Alexander (R-LA), and the death of Rep. Bill Young (R-FL).\nWith this move, Rep. Roby will no longer serve on the\u00a0House Armed Services Committee, the\u00a0House Agriculture Committee, or the House Education and the Workforce Committee. Rep. Roby said, however, that she remains committed to supporting the district\u2019s unique military, agriculture, and educational interests.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-gets-seat-influential-appropriations-committee", "Roby gets seat on influential Appropriations Committee", "2013-12-05", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Republican Rep. Martha Roby was named to the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, continuing Alabama\u2019s long history of having multiple members on the influential panel that decides where federal taxpayer money is spent.\n\u201cMembers of the Appropriations Committee have tough jobs to do and have a great responsibility to properly fund the federal government and support the well-being of the nation,\u201d said Rep. Hal Rogers, R-Ky., the committee\u2019s chairman.\nRoby and two other GOP lawmakers who received seats on the committee are replacing two members who resigned \u2014 including Rep. Jo Bonner of Mobile \u2014 and one who died. Rep. Mark Amodei of Nevada and Rep. Chris Stewart of Utah are the other two new members.\nRep. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, is the other Alabama lawmaker on the committee. He chairs the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies.\nOn the Senate side, Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, is vice chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Other recent appropriators from Alabama include former Rep. Bud Cramer of Huntsville, former Rep. Sonny Callahan of Mobile, former Rep. Jack Edwards of Mobile and former Rep. Tom Bevill of Jasper.\nAlabama\u2019s history on the House and Senate committees has given the state a prominent role in writing legislation that allocates taxpayer dollars across nearly every aspect of the federal government. For years, the job let appropriators send money for special projects, or earmarks, to their home states or districts. Earmarking was banned in 2010, but the House and Senate Appropriations panels still wield considerable influence over which federal agencies see spending cuts and which see increases.\nUnder House rules, Roby must give up her seats on the Armed Services Committee, the Education and the Workforce Committee and the Agriculture Committee in order to take the seat on the Appropriations Committee.\nRoby is in her third term representing Alabama\u2019s 2nd District, which covers the southeastern part of the state and includes Montgomery. The district\u2019s exact boundaries have changed over the decades, but the general area has not been represented by an appropriator in at least 75 years.\n\u201cCongress is working in a budget-constrained environment for the foreseeable future, and we must make sure every dollar spent is spent wisely,\u201d Roby said in a prepared statement. \u201cAfter numerous discussions with senior colleagues in Congress and stakeholders in my state, I\u2019m convinced having a seat on the Appropriations Committee will afford me more \u2014 not less \u2014 influence on issues that matter to the people of Alabama\u2019s Second District.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/vice-chairman-armed-services-committee-tour-maxwell-air-force-base-monday", "Vice chairman of Armed Services Committee to tour Maxwell Air Force Base on Monday", "2013-12-05", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A high-ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee will be in Montgomery on Monday to tour Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex.\nThe military community in Montgomery hopes the visit by Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, vice chairman of the committee, will help insulate the base against future budget cuts as the Pentagon downsizes over the next several years.\n\u201cWe have some national treasures here in terms of capabilities, and it\u2019s always helpful when someone that senior on Armed Services understands what goes on here at Maxwell and Gunter,\u201d said Joe Greene, vice president for military and governmental affairs at the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.\nThe Armed Services Committee oversees the Defense Department and writes the annual bill detailing defense policy. Thornberry is considered a contender to chair the committee if Rep. Buck McKeon, R-Calif., retires.\nThornberry was invited to Maxwell-Gunter by Reps. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Mike Rogers, R-Saks.\n\u201cIt allows Vice Chairman Thornberry to gain first-hand knowledge of the work being done on base, meet our commanders and community leaders, and hopefully come away with a better understanding of the value Maxwell-Gunter adds to the United States military,\u201d said Roby\u2019s spokesman, Todd Stacy.\nThornberry will spend the day touring the facilities and attending briefings from all of the commanders, Greene said. Air University, the Business and Enterprise Systems Directorate, and the Core Data Center of the Defense Information Systems Agency are among the highlights.\n\u201cWe want him to see what it is we do here and the impact that budget cuts could have on these operations,\u201d Greene said.\nCongress failed to reach a long-term deal to cut the federal deficit, so another round of sequestration spending cuts is scheduled to begin next year. Military leaders have warned those cuts will damage military readiness.\nAir Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh told the Senate last month that the cuts could force the Air Force to reduce flying hours by up to 15 percent.\n\u201cAs a result, many of our flying units will be unable to fly at the rates required to maintain mission readiness for three to four months at a time,\u201d he said. \u201cWe\u2019ll cancel or significantly curtail major exercises, and we\u2019ll reduce our initial pilot production targets.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-passing-nelson-mandela", "Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on the Passing of Nelson Mandela", "2013-12-05", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:\n\n\tWhile today we mourn the loss of one of history's most valuable freedom fighters, Nelson Mandela's legacy as a universal symbol of hope, justice and courage will inspire generations to come. As a direct benefactor of the Civil Rights Movement in my home state of Alabama, I reflect upon the tremendous contributions Nelson Mandela has made to civil rights movements across the world. The lessons which came from America's civil rights movement and those from Mandela's fight to end apartheid in South Africa are inextricably linked.\n\n\tNelson Mandela's legacy is one that reflects a courageous struggle for freedom that not only changed South Africa, but the entire world. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we must honor his legacy by never taking for granted the benefits that come from the freedom he and so many others fought for. May the life of Nelson Mandela serve as a constant reminder that we must never deviate from our dedication to equality in our communities, schools, and institutions.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-accepts-position-house-committee-appropriations", "Roby Accepts Position on House Committee on Appropriations", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today accepted an assignment to the House Committee on Appropriations, a development Rep. Roby called a challenging responsibility, but a unique opportunity on behalf of Alabama's Second Congressional District. \"I am honored to accept a position on the House Committee on Appropriations, and I appreciate the confidence my colleagues have placed in me by selecting me to serve in this capacity,\" Rep. Roby said. \"Appropriations has oversight on the whole range of government spending. This new role provides a unique opportunity to push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations.\" Rep. Roby's assignment became official after it was approved by the House Republican Steering Committee on Wednesday. Two other Members of Congress - Reps. Mark Amodei (R-NV) and Chris Stewart (R-UT) - also received assignments to the committee. The vacancies were created by the resignations of Reps. Jo Bonner (R-AL) and Rodney Alexander (R-LA), and the death of Rep. Bill Young (R-FL). Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers (R-KY) welcomed the new Members today in a statement. \u201cI am pleased to welcome Representatives Amodei, Roby, and Stewart to the Committee, and look forward to working side-by-side with them as we tackle our formidable work ahead. Members of the Appropriations Committee have tough jobs to do, and have a great responsibility to properly fund the federal government and support the well-being of the nation,\u201d Chairman Rogers said. \u201cThese dedicated public servants have proven their commitment to the responsible shepherding of federal tax dollars, to the regular Appropriations process, and to both the people of their districts and the American people as a whole.\u201d With this move, Rep. Roby will no longer serve on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Agriculture Committee, or the House Education and the Workforce Committee. Rep. Roby said, however, that she remains committed to supporting the district\u2019s unique military, agriculture, and educational interests. \"Congress is working in a budget-constrained environment for the foreseeable future, and we must make sure every dollar spent is spent wisely,\" she said. \"After numerous discussions with senior colleagues in Congress and stakeholders in my state, I\u2019m convinced having a seat on the Appropriations Committee will afford me more \u2013 not less \u2013 influence on issues that matter to the people of Alabama\u2019s Second District.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/purse-strings-passed-different-sort-republican", "Purse Strings Passed to a Different Sort of Republican", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Three weeks ago, and thanks mainly to the seniority system, an unusual midyear rearrangement of the House Appropriations power structure produced promotions for a quartet of relatively moderate and old-school Republicans.\nBut on Wednesday, when three vacancies were filled on the committee that decides where the money goes, the winners were a decidedly different sort: Martha Roby of Alabama, Mark Amodei of Nevada and Chris Stewart of Utah are all small-government conservatives from the legion of tea-party-inspired newcomers who have secured control over the House GOP\u2019s ideological center of gravity.\nAll of them voted against Speaker John A. Boehner\u2019s wishes on both of the most politically important spending votes of this year. Each not only opposed the January legislation delivering an expansive (but not offset) package of recovery and reconstruction aid to Hurricane Sandy victims but also voted against the October bill ending the partial government shutdown and raising the debt ceiling with no anti-Obamacare strings attached.\nYet all have remained in decent favor with their GOP elders, because they\u2019ve steered clear of the boldest confrontational tactics espoused by their most tea-party-infused colleagues.\nAt the same time, they\u2019ve all branded themselves back home \u2014 where their districts are deep red \u2014 as so reliably conservative that they have no worries about primary challenges from the right.\nFor all those reasons, the selection of the trio suggests the Republican leadership is looking to cultivate a different breed for the next generation of appropriators: members with unimpeachable but not melodramatic commitments to fiscal discipline, with enough insider savvy to compensate for a bit of an independent streak, and with a willingness to devote their House careers to the tough trade-offs required in thinning both domestic and defense programs.\nIt\u2019s quite a different model from even a few years ago, when voting to defeat both of the year\u2019s most consequential spending bills would have been an automatic disqualifier for an Appropriations spot, even on the GOP side. The prerequisites for membership have clearly changed since the Republicans took back the House three years ago. A majority of the panel\u2019s GOP seats, 16 of 29, are now held by members who have won their appointments since the 2010 elections \u2014 everyone, in fact, who doesn\u2019t hold some sort of chairmanship on the panel. And of those conservatives, a majority of nine voted \u201cno\u201d on the continuing resolution that reopened the government.\nBut so too, of course, did three out of four members of the GOP conference, meaning the era has clearly ended when Republican appropriators were more willing than the rank and file to cut a deal that spent more money.\nIt\u2019s also the case that a posting to Appropriations is much less the holy grail of insiders\u2019 accomplishments than it once was. With overt earmarking disallowed, spending levels stuck near neutral and the budget process struggling to emerge from years of total breakdown, an assignment to tug on the purse strings does not automatically present itself as a ripe plum in either party \u2014 especially since taking the job requires saying goodbye to accrued seniority on all other committees.\nThe frustration was such that Republican Cynthia M. Lummis of Wyoming, after just one term as an appropriator, took the essentially unprecedented step of getting off the committee this year.\nThe assignments announced this week suggest the status gap and the relevancy anxieties might be easing a bit. All signs had pointed to the GOP waiting until the new year to fill the vacancies; doing so now underscores the growing expectation that a modest budget deal will be sealed in the next week providing some relief from the sequester \u2014 and allowing appropriators about four weeks to reorder spending priorities for the remaining two-thirds of the fiscal year. There would be no rush to fill out the Appropriations roster if the only impending assignment was to write another CR.\nRoby, a 37-year-old former Montgomery City Council member who\u2019s particularly popular with her colleagues in the class of 2010, was willing to give up her new chairmanship of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations to join Appropriations. \u201cThere is no better place to address our nation\u2019s spending addiction,\u201d she said in an email to constituents explaining the switch, which also made clear a top priority would be protecting the interests of Fort Rucker and Maxwell Air Force Base in her home state.\nAmodei, who won a 2011 special election after Dean Heller was appointed to the Senate, spent 14 years as a state legislator and two more as Nevada\u2019s GOP chairman. The federal government is the biggest landowner in his 56,000-square-mile district north and east of Reno, which means he\u2019ll naturally be drawn to programs governing water resources and energy.\nStewart, a freshman elected to a newly created seat taking in most of Salt Lake City and half of the state\u2019s rural expanse, is unlike the others in having held no prior public office. He\u2019s the former CEO of an environmental compliance company and a sharp critic of many federal regulations, but he\u2019s better known as a prolific author of works including the best-seller \u201cThe Miracle of Freedom: Seven Tipping Points That Saved the World.\u201d\nAll three open seats had been held by Southerners: C.W. Bill Young of Florida, who died, and Rodney Alexander of Louisiana and Jo Bonner of Alabama, each of whom resigned. But even though almost half of the GOP\u2019s House seats are in the South, the region lost two of its Appropriations seats to the fast-growing West.\nAnd there remain four states \u2014 North Carolina, Indiana, Illinois and New York \u2014 with six or more Republicans in their delegations but no representation on the committee. The formula for finding just the right members to hold the purse strings, it appears, can only be refined so much.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/three-republicans-join-house-appropriations-committee", "Three Republicans join House Appropriations Committee", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Three new Republicans on Wednesday were named to the powerful House Appropriations Committee ahead of work on a possible omnibus spending package for fiscal 2014.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tReps. Mark Amodei (Nev.), Martha Roby (Ala), and Chris Stewart (Utah) were given their new assignments by the Republican steering committee. The appointments bring to 29 the number of Republicans serving under Chairman Hal Rogers (R-Ky.), and the move could increase his say over how a final budget deal for 2014 turns out.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tADVERTISEMENT  \n\tAppropriators are generally united in wanting sequester cuts shifted to entitlement cuts and could oppose any budget deal that leaves all the sequester cuts in place.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cThese dedicated public servants have proven their commitment to the responsible shepherding of federal tax dollars, to the regular Appropriations process, and to both the people of their districts and the American people as a whole,\" Rogers said in a statement.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tThe three vacancies were caused by the sudden death of Rep. Bill Young (R-Fla.) and retirements of Rep. Rodney Alexander (R-La.) and Jo Bonner (R-Ala.).\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-house-floor-speech-emphasizes-healthcaregov-cyber-security-risks", "Brooks House Floor Speech Emphasizes HealthCare.Gov Cyber-Security Risks", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Standing before the U.S. House this morning, in an effort to protect hardworking Americans, who may unknowingly subject themselves toidentity theft and cyber-attack risks, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) emphasized Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing testimony that warns the public of the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.Gov, cyber-security risks.  During his remarks, Congressman Brooks emphasized three written statements by the committee's bipartisan expert panel. First, that there are clear indicators that even basic security was not built into the HealthCare.Gov website. Second, that the vast amount of [HealthCare.Gov computer program] code also means applying industry standards security practices is a task that can have no real chance of success. And, third, that HealthCare.Gov creates massive opportunity for fraud, scams, deceptive trade practices, identity theft, and more.  Brooks added that the reply from the bipartisan panel of experts, when asked whether they could recommend the public use HealthCare.Gov given its cyber security weaknesses, was a stunning and unanimous no, do not use HealthCare.Gov because the security risks associated with the website are simply too great.  Brooks warned that, HealthCare.Gov, is the mother load for identity theft, internet fraud and other criminal activity, and that, based on their expert advice, I  encourage all Americans to avoid HealthCare.Gov, the ObamaCare website, in any way, shape or form until its cyber-security risks are fixed.  Brooks concluded by noting that, If these experts are right, and if you are an American citizen who obeys ObamaCare dictates and you suffer from identify theft or other financial losses, the White House response is essentially, Tough luck.You are on your own.'  Video of Congressman Brooks' remarks is available HERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-house-floor-speech-emphasizes-healthcaregov-cyber-security-risks-0", "Brooks House Floor Speech Emphasizes HealthCare.Gov Cyber-Security Risks", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Standing before the U.S. House this morning, in an effort to protect hardworking Americans, who may unknowingly subject themselves toidentity theft and cyber-attack risks, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) emphasized Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing testimony that warns the public of the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.Gov, cyber-security risks.  During his remarks, Congressman Brooks emphasized three written statements by the committee's bipartisan expert panel. First, that there are clear indicators that even basic security was not built into the HealthCare.Gov website. Second, that the vast amount of [HealthCare.Gov computer program] code also means applying industry standards security practices is a task that can have no real chance of success. And, third, that HealthCare.Gov creates massive opportunity for fraud, scams, deceptive trade practices, identity theft, and more.  Brooks added that the reply from the bipartisan panel of experts, when asked whether they could recommend the public use HealthCare.Gov given its cyber security weaknesses, was a stunning and unanimous no, do not use HealthCare.Gov because the security risks associated with the website are simply too great.  Brooks warned that, HealthCare.Gov, is the mother load for identity theft, internet fraud and other criminal activity, and that, based on their expert advice, I  encourage all Americans to avoid HealthCare.Gov, the ObamaCare website, in any way, shape or form until its cyber-security risks are fixed.  Brooks concluded by noting that, If these experts are right, and if you are an American citizen who obeys ObamaCare dictates and you suffer from identify theft or other financial losses, the White House response is essentially, Tough luck.You are on your own.'  Video of Congressman Brooks' remarks is available HERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050719/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=bf6769a5-d606-3704-2fcd-ae1a3787888b", "Sessions: Presidents Rhetoric On Wages Undermined By Immigration Plan That Will Hammer American Workers", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement today regarding President Obama\u2019s speech on the decline in economic conditions for U.S. workers:\n\u00a0\n\u201cIt is shocking for the President to give a speech about income disparity and falling wages while pushing an immigration plan that will hammer American workers and widen the disparity. The Congressional Budget Office confirms the White House-backed plan would reduce wages, reduce per capita GNP, and increase unemployment. The President says people are worried \u2018the system is rigged\u2019 and yet it is the President who has teamed up with a small cadre of CEOs to double the flow of immigrant workers when these exact same companies are laying off American workers in droves.\n\u00a0\nWages for American workers are lower today than they were more than a decade ago\u2014and take-home pay has fallen each year since the President came into office. A recent study demonstrated that all net job growth since 2000 has gone to immigrant workers while the number of U.S.-born Americans working has declined by 1.3 million.\n\u00a0\nThe President\u2019s policies also threaten college students who are about to enter a difficult economy. His plan would more than double the number of temporary foreign workers for wealthy tech companies. As Professor Ron Hira, a leading expert on H-1B visas, has noted, the visas are being used for \u2018facilitating offshoring and providing employers with cheap, temporary labor\u2014while reducing job opportunities for American high-tech workers in the process.\u2019\n\u00a0\nHarvard professor Dr. George Borjas found that high levels of immigration between 1980 and 2000 caused the wages of lower-skilled American workers to drop nearly 8 percent. He also found current immigration levels have resulted in a $402 billion annual wage loss for workers but a $437 billion increase in profits for business owners.\n\u00a0\nIt is time to have an open and honest conversation about our shrinking middle class and the consequences of our immigration policies on American workers and their wages. Unfortunately, that is not what we got from the President today.\n\u00a0\nThe truth is that the policy formula favored by President Obama\u2014more regulation, hostility to American energy, anti-growth taxation, surging debt, bigger government, more federal interference, government-run healthcare, and mindless immigration policies\u2014are the cause, not the cure, for growing middle class distress.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132223/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1089", "Brooks House Floor Speech Emphasizes HealthCare.Gov Cyber-Security Risks", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u2013 Standing before the U.S. House this morning, in an effort to protect hardworking Americans, who may unknowingly subject themselves to\u00a0identity theft and cyber-attack risks, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) emphasized Science, Space, and Technology (SST) Committee hearing testimony that warns the public of the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.Gov, cyber-security risks.\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tDuring his remarks, Congressman Brooks emphasized three written statements by the committee\u2019s bipartisan expert panel.\u00a0 First, that \u201cthere are clear indicators that even basic security was not built into the HealthCare.Gov website.\u201d\u00a0 Second, that \u201cthe vast amount of [HealthCare.Gov computer program] code also means applying industry standards security practices is a task that can have no real chance of success.\u201d\u00a0 And, third, that HealthCare.Gov \u201ccreates massive opportunity for fraud, scams, deceptive trade practices, identity theft, and more.\u201d\u00a0\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tBrooks added that the reply from the bipartisan panel of experts, when asked whether they could recommend the public use HealthCare.Gov given its cyber security weaknesses, \u201cwas a stunning and unanimous no, do not use HealthCare.Gov because the security risks associated with the website are simply too great.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tBrooks warned that, \u201cHealthCare.Gov, is the mother load for identity theft, internet fraud and other criminal activity,\u201d and that, \u201cbased on their expert advice, I \u2026 encourage all Americans to avoid HealthCare.Gov, the ObamaCare website, in any way, shape or form until its cyber-security risks are fixed.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tBrooks concluded by noting that, \u201cIf these experts are right, and if you are an American citizen who obeys ObamaCare dictates and you suffer from identify theft or other financial losses, the White House response is essentially, \u2018Tough luck.\u00a0You are on your own.\u2019\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0 Video of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks is available HERE.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-bill-protects-funding-key-nasa-programs", "Brooks' Bill Protects Funding for Key NASA Programs", "2013-12-03", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) has introduced H.R. 3625, a bill that frees up half a billion dollars in funding for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, and the International Space Station. Congressman Brooks stated, Congress has designated the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station as priority investments that should be properly funded. H.R. 3625 reflects congressional priorities. Brooks continued, H.R. 3625 is multi-faceted. It bars NASA from unilaterally canceling SLS, Orion, or the Space Station without express congressional consent. As of October 2013, NASA forces SLS, Orion, and Space Station contractors to withhold and not use $507 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $507 million for productive work on SLS, Orion and the Space Station. Brooks added, Withholding scarce funds for termination liability slows development and hence increases the total cost of a project. This in turn makes it even more likely that a program could be terminated. According to NASA reports to Congress, as of October 2013, $192 million from SLS, $226 million from Orion, and $89 million from the Space Station are being held to cover termination liability costs that would otherwise be used to timely complete these scientific efforts. Brooks concluded, The issue of limiting funding to account for potential termination liability costs contributed to the Obama Administration's decision to cancel the Constellation program. Regardless of whether Constellation should, or should not, have been cancelled, I believe it unwise to subject America's Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station to similar risks. Click here to read a copy of H.R. 3625. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-appointed-serve-house-democratic-steering-and", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Appointed to Serve on the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee", "2013-12-03", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell was appointed by U.S. House Democratic leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. As a member of this Committee, Congresswoman Sewell will play an integral role in advancing the Democratic agenda that includes paycheck fairness, job creation, middle class growth and deficit reduction.\n\n\tThe House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for developing an agenda to address our nation's most critical issues. In addition, this committee is responsible for recommending other Democrats in Congress for various appointments and committee assignments.\n\n\tI am honored to be appointed by Democratic Leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, said Rep. Sewell. The issues of job creation, economic development, and deficit reduction are critically important to my constituents in Alabama's 7th Congressional District. I proudly accept this opportunity to further an agenda dedicated to solving the economic and social issues most important to the well-being of my constituents and the American people. I look forward to working with our outstanding Democratic leadership and my colleagues on the Steering and Policy Committee to advance these Democratic priorities.\n\n\tCongresswoman Sewell adds this new appointment to her other leadership positions in the 113th Congress. Sewell was also selected by U.S. House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer to serve as one of the ten Chief Deputy Whips for the Democratic Party. Through this position, she is responsible for helping the Democratic Party mobilize the party vote on important legislation and serving as a liaison between the Members and the Caucus helping to build strong support for the Democratic agenda. Congresswoman Sewell also sits on the House Financial Services Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-5th-project-ready-workshop-trenholm", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell to host 5th Project R.E.A.D.Y Workshop At Trenholm State Technical College", "2013-12-03", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MONTGOMERY, AL Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host the 5th Project R.E.A.D.Y seminar on Friday December 6, 2013 at Trenholm State Technical College. The event will feature workshops on career development and workforce options. The workshops will serve as a tool to prepare attendees for career readiness and job training.\nJob creation remains my top priority and I hope my constituents will continue to take full advantage of a Project R.E.A.D.Y workshop in a town near them, Rep. Sewell said.\nThe event is a part of a series of workshops that Sewell has hosted throughout the 7th Congressional district as part of her ongoing workforce training initiative.\nWho: Congresswoman Terri Sewell\nWhat: Project R.E.A.D.Y Workforce Development Seminar\nWhen: Friday December 6, 2013\nTime: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.\nLocation: Trenholm State Technical College-Trenholm Campus\n Student Center-Building D\n  1225 Air Base Blvd.\n Montgomery, AL. 36108\nAbout Project READY\nProject R.E.A.D.Y (Realizing Every one's Ability to Develop Yourself), is a series of workforce development training seminars. The goal of Project R.E.A.D.Y is to facilitate employment in Alabama's 7th Congressional District by promoting public-private partnerships, job readiness, skills training and career development.\nContact: Aneesa McMillan 205.254.1960 Aneesa.McMillan@mail.house.gov", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-selection-councilor-johnathan", "Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on the Selection of Councilor Johnathan Austin as Birmingham City Council President", "2013-12-03", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on the selection of Councilor Johnathan Austin as Birmingham's new City Council President:\n\n\t\n\n\tI would like to extend a heartfelt congratulation to Birmingham City Councilor Johnathan Austin on being elected as the Council's new President. Council President Austin is a remarkable and dynamic public servant who has a strong record of working to enhance the wellbeing of Birmingham's residents. Through his work to expand Birmingham's technological infrastructure, protect the local environment, increase the city's bike lanes, and improve public health, Council President Austin has given our city much to be proud of. I know the City of Birmingham will be well-served under his leadership.\n\n\t###\n\n\tContact: Hillary Beard       202.225.2665       Hillary.Beard@mail.house.gov", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20131205161112/http://sewell.house.gov/press-release/congresswoman-terri-sewell-appointed-serve-house-democratic-steering-and-policy", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Appointed to Serve on the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee", "2013-12-03", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell was appointed by U.S. House Democratic leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. As a member of this Committee, Congresswoman Sewell will play an integral role in advancing the Democratic agenda that includes paycheck fairness, job creation, middle class growth and deficit reduction.\nThe House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for developing an agenda to address our nation\u2019s most critical issues. In addition, this committee is responsible for recommending other Democrats in Congress for various appointments and committee assignments.\n\u201cI am honored to be appointed by Democratic Leadership to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThe issues of job creation, economic development, and deficit reduction are critically important to my constituents in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. I proudly accept this opportunity to further an agenda dedicated to solving the economic and social issues most important to the well-being of my constituents and the American people. I look forward to working with our outstanding Democratic leadership and my colleagues on the Steering and Policy Committee to advance these Democratic priorities.\u201d\nCongresswoman Sewell adds this new appointment to her other leadership positions in the 113th Congress. Sewell was also selected by U.S. House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer to serve as one of the ten Chief Deputy Whips for the Democratic Party. Through this position, she is responsible for helping the Democratic Party mobilize the party vote on important legislation and serving as a liaison between the Members and the Caucus helping to build strong support for the Democratic agenda. Congresswoman Sewell also sits on the House Financial Services Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923195924/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1088", "Brooks' Bill Protects Funding for Key NASA Programs", "2013-12-03", "2013", "2013-12", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u2013 Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) has introduced H.R. 3625, a bill that frees up half a billion dollars in funding for NASA\u2019s Space Launch System (SLS), Orion Crew Capsule, and the International Space Station.\n\n\tCongressman Brooks stated, \u201cCongress has designated the Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station as priority investments that should be properly funded.\u00a0 H.R. 3625 reflects congressional priorities.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\n\tBrooks continued, \u201cH.R. 3625 is multi-faceted. It bars NASA from unilaterally canceling SLS, Orion, or the Space Station without express congressional consent. As of October 2013, NASA forces SLS, Orion, and Space Station contractors to withhold and not use $507 million in appropriated funding to cover potential termination costs should NASA unilaterally terminate these programs. H.R. 3625 frees up that $507 million for productive work on SLS, Orion and the Space Station.\u201d\n\n\tBrooks added, \u201cWithholding scarce funds for termination liability slows development and hence increases the total cost of a project. This in turn makes it even more likely that a program could be terminated. According to NASA reports to Congress, as of October 2013, $192 million from SLS, $226 million from Orion, and $89 million from the Space Station are being held to cover termination liability costs that would otherwise be used to timely complete these scientific efforts.\u201d\n\n\tBrooks concluded, \u201cThe issue of limiting funding to account for potential termination liability costs contributed to the Obama Administration's decision to cancel the Constellation program.\u00a0 Regardless of whether Constellation should, or should not, have been cancelled, I believe it unwise to subject America\u2019s Space Launch System, Orion Crew Capsule, and International Space Station to similar risks.\u201d\n\n\tClick here to read a copy of H.R. 3625.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/rep-martha-roby-appears-headed-seat-powerful-appropriations-committee", "Rep. Martha Roby appears headed for seat on powerful Appropriations Committee", "2013-11-25", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, appears headed for a slot on the influential House Appropriations Committee. The appointment would be a plum assignment for the second-term congresswoman. \u201cI am being encouraged by my colleagues to accept an assignment on House Appropriations Committee. This is so important to the Second District because this is the committee that holds the purse strings and controls federal spending, including funding for all military programs,\" Roby wrote in an e-mail to supporters obtained by Al.com. \u201cA spot on this committee will allow me a more direct role in fighting wasteful spending and pushing for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations. There is no better place to address our nation's spending addiction than on the Appropriations Committee,\u201d Roby wrote. She said the move would likely mean giving up seats on the Armed Services Committee, the Education and the Workforce Committee, and the Agriculture Committee. \u201cThat said, the Appropriations Committee has jurisdiction over each of those areas and more. I will remain a conferee on the Farm Bill as we work out the differences between the House and Senate Farm Bills. I will obviously also continue to fight for Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and Fort Rucker in this new role.\u201d There are three GOP vacancies on the committee.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-expected-land-spot-powerful-house-appropriations-committee", "Roby expected to land spot on powerful House Appropriations Committee", "2013-11-25", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, has been offered a coveted spot on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, the panel that determines how the federal government will spend the people\u2019s money.\nYellowhammer originally broke the news on social media over the weekend, but Rep. Roby has since confirmed what sources close to House leadership told us late last week.\n\u201cI am being encouraged by my colleagues to accept an assignment on the House Appropriations Committee,\u201d Roby said in the email to Yellowhammer. \u201cThis is so important to the Second District because this is the committee that holds the purse strings and controls federal spending, including funding for all military programs.\u201d\nRoby will join fellow Alabamian Rep. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, on the committee, but it won\u2019t come without some tradeoffs.\nRoby told a small group of her close supporters in the second district over the weekend that she would likely have to give up her seats on the Armed Services Committee, the Education and Workforce Committee, and the Agriculture Committee. She believes, however, that the move will be worth it because the Appropriations Committee has jurisdiction over those areas, as well as many others.\n\u201cThe Appropriations Committee has oversight on the whole range of government activities,\u201d Roby said. \u201cIt provides a unique opportunity to fight wasteful spending, hold the line on the budget, and push for the kind of conservative spending priorities that will put us on a sustainable financial path for future generations. Congress is working in a budget-constrained environment for the foreseeable future, and we must make sure every dollar spent is spent wisely. There is no better place to influence that process and to advocate for the people of my district than on the Appropriations Committee. It is an honor to be considered for such a prestigious position, which generally is available only to more senior members.\u201d\nRoby\u2019s appointment to the committee comes at a time when both sides of the aisle in D.C. are hoping to return to so-called \u201cregular order.\u201d That means funding the government through appropriations bills rather than \u201ccontinuing resolutions\u201d \u2014 short-term measures that fund the government at previous levels. For the past several years, gridlock in D.C. has left Appropriations Committees in both chambers with little to do. Roby will be well positioned to play a significant role once Congress returns to the traditional appropriations process.\nThe Republican Steering Committee chaired by House Speaker John Boehner is expected to vote on Roby\u2019s appointment after Thanksgiving.\n\u201cFor the time being, I remain fully devoted to my current committees, including the House Agriculture Committee, where we are engaged in critical conference negotiations with the Senate on the Farm Bill,\u201d Roby said. \u201cI look forward to continued discussions with my colleagues in the coming weeks.\u201d\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045032/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=90abec74-94e2-f048-383c-0662f06627d5", "Sessions Joins Bipartisan Letter To Commerce Department To Ensure Fair Trade For Alabama, U.S. Steel Workers", "2013-11-25", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) signed a bipartisan letter sent to the Department of Commerce regarding antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) orders on oil country tubular goods (OCTG) from China:\n\u00a0\nA full text of the letter follows. To view it as a PDF, please click here:\n\u00a0\nNovember 25, 2013\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe Honorable Penny S. Pritzker\nSecretary of Commerce\nU.S. Department of Commerce\n1401 Constitution Avenue, N.W.\nWashington, D.C. 20230\n\u00a0\nDear Secretary Pritzker:\n\u00a0\nWe are writing to follow up on an issue that continues to be of vital importance to our constituents \u2013 namely, the need for continued strong enforcement of the existing antidumping (\u201cAD\u201d) and countervailing duty (\u201cCVD\u201d) orders on oil country tubular goods (\u201cOCTG\u201d) from China.\u00a0 The orders have provided much needed relief to our industry and workers, who were subjected to massive injury from the influx of dumped and subsidized OCTG from China in 2008 and 2009.\n\u00a0\nWe understand that within a few weeks the Department of Commerce intends to issue the final results of a scope inquiry to determine whether minor finishing (such as heat treating) of OCTG from China in third countries is enough to change its \"country of origin\" for purposes of the AD/CVD orders and to exempt it from trade relief.\u00a0 In May, the Department preliminarily determined that such minor finishing is not enough to change the country of origin of Chinese OCTG.\u00a0 We applaud that ruling and greatly appreciate the hard work and extensive fact-finding and analysis that went into it.\u00a0 While the preliminary scope determination was focused specifically on the finishing of Chinese OCTG in Indonesia, it nevertheless is a critical determination that confirms the original intent of the orders and has broad applicability to all potential third country processing of Chinese-origin OCTG.\u00a0 \n\u00a0\nAs it prepares its final results, we urge the Department to keep in mind the critical importance of this issue for our workers and the U.S. industry as a whole.\u00a0 The U.S. OCTG\u00a0 industry believes that any finding that minor finishing of Chinese OCTG in third countries is enough to alter its country of origin would be unsupported by the evidence and would open a\u00a0 large loophole in the AD and CVD orders and encourage rampant circumvention and evasion.\u00a0 In this regard, we understand that it would be a relatively simple matter for Chinese producers to take advantage of the numerous finishing operations that exist around the world, or to set up new operations to evade the existing trade relief.\u00a0 That outcome would be inconsistent with the purpose and scope of the existing trade orders on China, and would threaten the U.S. OCTG\u00a0industry and workers with enormous additional harm.\n\u00a0\nAs you know, these orders have been vitally important to the U.S. industry and American steel workers.\u00a0 After being devastated by a massive wave of dumped and subsidized Chinese imports that negatively impacted this market in a matter of months, the U.S. industry is now in a fragile recovery.\u00a0 Opening a new path to circumvention of the orders would severely threaten that recovery and the relief from unfair trade that our companies and workers fought so hard to achieve.\n\u00a0\nAccordingly, we urge you to make sure that the Department is interpreting these orders as intended and as needed to ensure that they are effective.\n\u00a0\nSincerely,\n\u00a0\nU.S. Senator Jeff Sessions,\nU.S. Senator Sherrod Brown,\nU.S. Senator Rob Portman,\nU.S. Senator Joe Donnelly\nU.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar,\nU.S. Senator Carl Levin,\nU.S. Senator Al Franken,\nU.S. Senator Richard Shelby,\nU.S. Senator Bob Casey,\nU.S. Senator Dan Coats,\nU.S. Senator Mark Pryor,\nU.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow\u201d\n\u00a0\nBACKGROUND:\nSenator Sessions signed a letter to the Department of Commerce expressing concerns with Chinese efforts to avoid U.S. antidumping and countervailing duties on oil country tubular goods (OCTG). In May 2013, the Department of Commerce issued a preliminary ruling that minor finishing of Chinese OCTG in Indonesia is not enough to change the OCTG\u2019s Chinese country of origin label. The Department of Commerce\u2019s final ruling on this matter is expected within the next few weeks.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050731/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=90be56b7-f985-bcc2-dcb7-49c9a7841a86", "Sessions Comments Ahead Of Presidents Immigration Address", "2013-11-25", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement today as President Obama was set to deliver remarks on immigration:\n\u00a0\n\u201cHouse leaders must lay out clearly to the American people the President\u2019s dismal record on immigration. During his time in office, the President has systematically dismantled interior enforcement, handcuffing immigration officers and bypassing Congress. These facts\u2014drawn from the testimony\u00a0of immigration officers themselves\u2014should be clearly documented before the whole nation. No agreement should be entered into while such lawlessness continues.\n\u00a0\nSecondly, the President must be asked\u2014by media and lawmakers alike\u2014how he can possibly justify a plan that will double the flow of immigrant workers at a time when 91.5 million Americans are outside the labor force? Indeed, as the President makes his immigration remarks he is preparing to hold a fundraiser with Silicon Valley executives, a group clamoring for more guest workers at a time when nearly half of recent college grads are underemployed. Wages are flat and falling for U.S. workers\u2014the clearest evidence that there is not a labor shortage, but a jobs shortage.\n\u00a0\nAmerica is not an oligarchy. Congressional leaders must forcefully reject the notion, evidently accepted by the President, that a small cadre of CEOs can tailor the nation\u2019s entire immigration policy to suit their narrow interests. A Republic must answer to the people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-reacts-pushback-2015-obamacare-enrollment", "Rogers Reacts to Pushback of 2015 Obamacare Enrollment", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mike Rogers", "R000575", "mike-rogers.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(WASHINGTON, DC)\u2014Congressman Mike Rogers is objecting to an expected announcement today by the Administration that would delay the open enrollment date of Obamacare for 2015 by a month.\u00a0 Rogers pointed out it just happens the delay will push the current 2014 deadline from October 15 to November 15, just after the midterm elections.\n\u201cPresident Obama continues to play shameful political games with his failing healthcare law.\u00a0 This most recent move could keep the American public from fully seeing the financial impact of Obamacare on their lives at an important time.\nRogers said an American Enterprise Institute (AEI) study estimates that up to 100 million Americans employed by small businesses could lose their coverage during open enrollment in 2014 as a result of Obamacare and the loss of the special exemption for businesses given by the Administration for this year.\n\u201cBy delaying the next enrollment date, I believe President Obama is intentionally trying to deny Americans adequate information about their health insurance to keep his flawed law in place.\u00a0 As we have seen already this year, Obamacare is a monumental disaster and should be repealed before it imposes even more damage to American citizens and our nation's economy.\n\u201cWe have seen this type of alarming behavior by the Obama Administration before. The failure of Administration officials to come clean with the American people in the aftermath of the murder of the American Ambassador and staff by terrorists in Benghazi, Libya is one example. Another is the targeting of Tea Party groups by IRS officials. Both demonstrate the willingness of the Administration to use their powers to withhold information from the American people for what appears to be for political purposes. The American people and our nation deserve much better,\" Rogers said.\nRogers serves as Chairman of the Strategic Forces subcommittee on the Armed Services Committee and is a senior member of the Homeland Security and Agriculture committees.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 -###-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-delegation-lays-out-case-boeing-locate-facility-alabama", "Alabama delegation lays out case for Boeing to locate facility in Alabama", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Friday, the Alabama congressional delegation sent a letter to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., touting Alabama as a potential location for its 777X aircraft manufacturing facility.\nHuntsville is among the finalists for the coveted facility, along with Charleston, S.C., Long Beach, Calif., Philadelphia and St. Louis.\nThe letter points out Boeing\u2019s existing footprint in north Alabama and also touts the state\u2019s \u201chigh-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\u201d\nAll of Alabama\u2019s congressional delegation signed the letter, including Sens. Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, and Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile, along with Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, Mike Rogers, R-Saks, Martha Roby, R-Montgomery and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabamas-congressional-delegation-sends-clear-message-we-want-boeing", "Alabama's Congressional delegation sends a clear message: We want Boeing", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Alabama's Congressional delegation is joining in the state's push to land a new Boeing production facility in Huntsville. In a Nov. 22 letter sent to Boeing CEO W. James McNerney Jr., Sens. Jeff Sessions and Richard Shelby and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell made the case for North Alabama as \"the best choice\" for a new production plant for Boeing's next-generation 777X. \"Given that Boeing already has such a significant presence in Huntsville, including performing much of its 787 and future 777X engineering work there, you are already familiar with the large, skilled, and reliable workforce that the area provides. All of Alabama's universities offer top-notch engineering and science programs with state-of-the-art facilities that can provide the skilled personnel that your expanded presence in Huntsville would require. Locally, the University of Alabama in Huntsville offers one of the nation's best aerospace engineering programs, while the Alabama Aviation Center, in partnership with the state's two-year college system, is also committed to providing large numbers of well-educated and trained aerospace workers,\" lawmakers wrote. \"We also hope you will remember that North Alabama's hospitable business environment includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\" State and city officials met with Boeing Tuesday after reports surfaced Huntsville was one of several locations in the running to potentially produce the 777X. Boeing is considering the move after the International Association of Machinists in Washington state rejected an eight-year labor contract extension that would have kept production there. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said the plant could bring as many as 4,800 high-paying jobs to the area and Boeing already owns about 300 acres between the two runways at the Huntsville International Airport. That site is large enough to accommodate the company's need for about 1 million square feet of production space and also provides important access to transportation. That location could be ideal for the company, lawmakers said in their letter. \"We want to underscore that Huntsville is not a landlocked location. It provides immediate access to an international airport with tremendous available capacity, the interstate highway system, the national rail system, and the inland waterway system. In fact, United Launch Alliance, Boeing's joint venture with Lockheed Martin, has been manufacturing large Atlas and Delta rocket stages in nearby Decatur and shipping them via inland waterways to the Gulf of Mexico and on to Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base for many years,\" they wrote. Officials in California, Kansas, South Carolina and Utah have also talked to the company and Georgia and Texas have expressed interest in the project. Boeing officials said they would make an announcement about the plant's location within three months. The letter also includes an invitation for Boeing officials to meet with Sen. Shelby and other delegation members after the Thanksgiving break.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=008c1cba-3165-4a77-9cc4-e06b26f9f27b", "Shelby Makes Case for More AL Aerospace Jobs", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "www.shelby.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "AL Delegation Makes Powerful Case for More Aerospace Jobs\u00a0\r\n\u201cIt has recently come to our attention that Boeing is considering locations for its planned 777X fuselage manufacturing, composite wing fabrication, and final assembly operations.\u00a0 We are pleased to hear reports that\u00a0Huntsville is in contention as a location for this expansion.\u00a0 Thus, we write to tell you why North Alabama is the best choice.\u201d\r\n\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C., Friday, November 22, 2013 \u2013 Amid news reports that aerospace giant Boeing is considering Huntsville, Alabama, among sites to build its planned 777X aircraft, U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today led the Alabama Congressional delegation in sending a letter to Boeing Chairman, President and CEO, James McNerney, Jr., underscoring the state\u2019s very strong and unique case as the prime location to do the work.\u00a0\r\nThe delegation highlighted Boeing\u2019s significant existing footprint in North Alabama, which boasts a business-friendly environment that includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\u00a0 The letter also points to world-class engineering and science facilities at Alabama\u2019s universities statewide that are producing an abundance of highly skilled workers that would be required to fill the jobs created.\r\nSigning the letter with along with Senator Shelby were Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Congressmen Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville), Spencer Bachus (R-Vestavia Hills), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Martha Roby (R-Montgomery), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham).\u00a0\r\nThe full text of the letter is below. \u00a0\r\n***\u00a0\r\nNovember 22, 2013\r\n\u00a0\r\nW. James McNerney, Jr.\r\nChairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer\r\nThe Boeing Company\r\n100 North Riverside\r\nChicago, IL\u00a0 60606\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Jim,\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It has recently come to our attention that Boeing is considering locations for its planned 777X fuselage manufacturing, composite wing fabrication, and final assembly operations.\u00a0 We are pleased to hear reports that Huntsville is in contention as a location for this expansion.\u00a0 Thus, we write to tell you why North Alabama is the best choice.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Given that Boeing already has such a significant presence in Huntsville, including performing much of its 787 and future 777X engineering work there, you are already familiar with the large, skilled, and reliable workforce that the area provides.\u00a0 All of Alabama\u2019s universities offer top-notch engineering and science programs with state-of-the-art facilities that can provide the skilled personnel that your expanded presence in Huntsville would require.\u00a0 Locally, the University of Alabama in Huntsville offers one of the nation\u2019s best Aerospace Engineering programs, while the Alabama Aviation Center, in partnership with the state\u2019s two-year college system, is also committed to providing large numbers of well-educated and trained aerospace workers.\r\nWhen determining where to locate these new operations, we also hope you will remember that North Alabama\u2019s hospitable business environment includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\r\nFinally, we want to underscore that Huntsville is not a landlocked location.\u00a0 It provides immediate access to an international airport with tremendous available capacity, the interstate highway system, the national rail system, and the inland waterway system.\u00a0 In fact, United Launch Alliance, Boeing\u2019s joint venture with Lockheed Martin, has been manufacturing large Atlas and Delta rocket stages in nearby Decatur and shipping them via inland waterways to the Gulf of Mexico and on to Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base for many years.\r\nWe are very pleased to learn of Boeing\u2019s interest in expanding its already significant footprint in Alabama and thus request an opportunity to meet with you to discuss this possibility during the second or third week of December.\u00a0 Please contact Senator Shelby\u2019s office at your earliest convenience for scheduling purposes.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\nSincerely,\r\n\u00a0\r\nRichard Shelby \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Jeff Sessions\r\nUnited States Senator \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0United States Senator\u2003\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nRobert Aderholt \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Mo Brooks \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\r\nUnited States Congressman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 United States Congressman\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nSpencer Bachus \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Mike Rogers\r\nUnited States Congressman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0United States Congressman\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nMartha Roby \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Terri Sewell\r\nUnited States Congressman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 United States Congressman", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-president-violates-constitutions-separation-powers-clause", "Brooks: President Violates Constitution's Separation of Powers Clause", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - President Obama has repeatedly rewritten the Affordable Care Act by \"executive decree\" without constitutional authority to do so. In response, CongressmanMo Brooks (AL-05) has co-signed House Resolution 425 expressing congressional disapproval of President Obama's violation of Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution to take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed (the \"Take Care Clause\"). Brooks stated, \"The notion that a president can unilaterally alter duly-enacted legislation by executive fiat is unconscionable and violates more than two centuries of established constitutional law. America's Founding Fathers established a system of separation of powers and checks and balances because they feared dictatorial power resting in the hands of one or few persons. History has proven those fears justified, as time after time around the world, power resting in the hands of one or few has been abused, thus causing loss of civil liberties among the general populace, civil strife,and war.\" Brooks continued, \"President Obama's amending federal statutes by executive fiat is a direct attack on the rule of law and a Constitution that has served America so well for so long. In short, President Obama's executive power overreach is unparalleled in American history and shows a blatant disregard for basic constitutional principles.\" Brooks added, \"The Constitution empowersCongress, the American people's most direct representatives, to enact laws (subject to presidential signature or veto). The President has a dutyunder the Constitution's \"Take Care Clause\" to obey and enforce laws properly enacted. Given President Obama's power overreach, it is Congress's duty to defend the Constitution.\" Brooks concluded, \"For more than two centuries, Senate filibuster powers forced presidents to nominate centrist, unbiased judges to interpret laws and the Constitution. Yesterday, Senator Harry Reid and the Democrat majority destroyed minority rights, thus empowering presidents to nominate extremist judges who can, because of partisanship, preconceived bias,or other extremist views, disregard the Constitution and established law. The net result: there is now nothing any Senate minority can do to stop President Obama from nominating federal judges whose sole function is to undermine theConstitutionand ratify presidential powers unrivaled in American history. Yesterday the Senate stripped Lady Justice of her blindfold and dangerously tipped the scales of justice out of balance.\"  This resolution: Disapproves of the President's failure to take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed as required by the Constitution;Disapproves of the President's usurpation of the legislative power of Congress through the rewriting of key provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; andReaffirms that the preservation of the Constitution's separation of powers is essential for the protection of individual liberty and the maintenance of the rule of law. *Click here to read H.Res. 425. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164034/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=52d440c8-4fbc-41c7-8697-6df98ceb926d", "AL.com: Alabama's Congressional delegation sends a clear message: We want Boeing", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Leada Gore | lgore@al.com \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tAlabama's Congressional delegation is joining in the state's push to land a new Boeing production facility in Huntsville.\nIn a Nov. 22 letter sent to Boeing CEO W. James McNerney Jr., Sens. Jeff Sessions and Richard Shelby and Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mo Brooks, Spencer Bachus, Mike Rogers, Martha Roby and Terri Sewell made the case for North Alabama as \"the best choice\" for a new production plant for Boeing's next-generation 777X.\n\"Given that Boeing already has such a significant presence in Huntsville, including performing much of its 787 and future 777X engineering work there, you are already familiar with the large, skilled, and reliable workforce that the area provides. All of Alabama's universities offer top-notch engineering and science programs with state-of-the-art facilities that can provide the skilled personnel that your expanded presence in Huntsville would require. Locally, the University of Alabama in Huntsville offers one of the nation's best aerospace engineering programs, while the Alabama Aviation Center, in partnership with the state's two-year college system, is also committed to providing large numbers of well-educated and trained aerospace workers,\" lawmakers wrote.\n\"We also hope you will remember that North Alabama's hospitable business environment includes decades of high-tech aerospace expertise, low taxation and cost-of-living, a rational regulatory regime, right-to-work laws, low utility rates, and excellent infrastructure.\"\nState and city officials met with Boeing Tuesday after reports surfaced Huntsville was one of several locations in the running to potentially produce the 777X.\nBoeing is considering the move after the International Association of Machinists in Washington state rejected an eight-year labor contract extension that would have kept production there.\nHuntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said the plant could bring as many as 4,800 high-paying jobs to the area and Boeing already owns about 300 acres between the two runways at the Huntsville International Airport. That site is large enough to accommodate the company's need for about 1 million square feet of production space and also provides important access to transportation.\nThat location could be ideal for the company, lawmakers said in their letter.\n\"We want to underscore that Huntsville is not a landlocked location. It provides immediate access to an international airport with tremendous available capacity, the interstate highway system, the national rail system, and the inland waterway system. In fact, United Launch Alliance, Boeing's joint venture with Lockheed Martin, has been manufacturing large Atlas and Delta rocket stages in nearby Decatur and shipping them via inland waterways to the Gulf of Mexico and on to Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base for many years,\" they wrote.\nOfficials in California, Kansas, South Carolina and Utah have also talked to the company and Georgia and Texas have expressed interest in the project. Boeing officials said they would make an announcement about the plant's location within three months.\nThe letter also includes an invitation for Boeing officials to meet with Sen. Shelby and other delegation members after the Thanksgiving break.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164046/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=26720943-319d-4fc3-a019-4592529888ca", "Yellowhammer: Shelby, Sessions rail against \"dictator\" Harry Reid and Dems for ending filibuster", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 On Thursday, Senate Democrats voted to do away with the filibuster as a method to block presidential judicial appointments, delivering a blow to minority party rights on nominations within Congress\u2019 upper chamber.\n  (Above: Sen. Jeff Sessions blasts Senate Democrats for destroying the rights of the minority party)\nWASHINGTON \u2013 On Thursday, Senate Democrats voted to do away with the filibuster as a method to block presidential judicial appointments, delivering a blow to minority party rights on nominations within Congress\u2019 upper chamber.\nAmong those who opposed Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid\u2019s move on the filibuster were both Alabama Sens. Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, and Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile.\nShelby castigated Senate Democrats and warned it would lead to President Barack Obama appointing radicals to the bench.\n\u201cSenate Democrats voted to force ObamaCare on the American people,\u201d Shelby said in a statement provided to Yellowhammer. \u201cDespite that disastrous exercise of power, they have now voted to give themselves even more of it. If Democrats think that they deserve more power, they should earn it from voters at the polls in 2014, not swipe it with a drastic rule change in the Senate today.\u201d\n\u201cUnfortunately, this radical move will allow President Obama to stack the executive and judicial branches with radical individuals who will do anything to preserve the terrible legislation that bears his name,\u201d he continued. \u201cAnd make no mistake; today\u2019s power grab is just the beginning.\u201d\nSessions took to the Senate floor to voice his opposition. Alabama\u2019s junior senator declared Reid\u2019s rule change one of the most historically significant in the history of the body.\n\u201cI think it\u2019s fair to say, without dispute, that the significance of this rule change today dwarfs any other appeal of the ruling of the chair that we\u2019ve seen, maybe in the history of the republic,\u201d Sessions said. \u201cThis is a big event and it changes what goes on here because we deal with power and the exercise of power. And this whole thing is simply Majority Leader Reid\u2026 but he\u2019s not a dictator. He does not get to dictate how this Senate is operated.\u201d\n\u201cHe does not have the right to come in and change the rules because he wants to fill three judgeship slots that are not needed \u2014 no way close,\u201d he continued. \u201cThere is no way you can justify filling these court slots, as based on simple need, caseload, or judge. So he\u2019s unhappy about that. Maybe he wants to change the mood of the country from ObamaCare and the overreach that was executed here to pass that bill on December 24, to ram it through the Senate on a straight party-line vote. I suspect that\u2019s part of it. But this is not the way to do business here.\u201d\nSen. Reid and President Obama have argued that new judicial appointees are critical to accomplishing the work of the American people. Sessions responded to that argument directly, saying that Republicans were holding up the appointments of D.C. circuit because they would be a waste of money due to the D.C. circuit\u2019s small caseload.\n\u201cThe only reason those judges were blocked \u2014 the only reason they did not get a confirmation \u2014 was because we didn\u2019t need them,\u201d Sessions said. \u201cThis country is going broke. There are districts in America that need judges. The D.C. Circuit does not need more judges. It doesn\u2019t need the eight they have. Yes, they have three vacancies, but with the current eight judges, their average caseload per judge was 149. And they\u2019ve been continuing to drop. My circuit, the 11th circuit, madam president, you\u2019d be interested to know, has an average caseload per judge of 740. The next-lowest caseload per circuit is twice 149.\u201d\n\u201cThe average is well above that per circuit,\u201d he added. \u201cWell above twice that. The judges themselves say they don\u2019t need any more judges. They take the whole summer off. These judges would not have been rejected if we\u2019d needed them. But the president is so determined to try to leave a legacy of friends on that court, that he just shoved them anyway and demanded that the Senate pass them. And Sen. Reid demanded that we confirm these judges. The judges say they don\u2019t need any more judges on that court. They don\u2019t need them, whether they say they need them or not.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132427/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1087", "Brooks: President Violates Constitution's Separation of Powers Clause", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - President Obama has repeatedly rewritten the Affordable Care Act by \"executive decree\" without constitutional authority to do so.\u00a0 In response, Congressman\u00a0Mo Brooks (AL-05) has co-signed House Resolution 425 expressing congressional disapproval of President Obama\u2019s violation of Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution to \u201ctake Care that the Laws be faithfully executed\u201d (the \"Take Care Clause\").\n\n\tBrooks stated, \"The notion that a president can unilaterally alter duly-enacted legislation by executive fiat is unconscionable and violates more than two centuries of established constitutional law.\u00a0 America's Founding Fathers established a system of separation of powers and checks and balances because they feared dictatorial power resting in the hands of one or few persons.\u00a0 History has proven those fears justified, as time after time around the world, power resting in the hands of one or few has been abused, thus causing loss of civil liberties among the general populace, civil strife,\u00a0and war.\"\n\n\tBrooks continued, \"President Obama\u2019s amending federal statutes by executive fiat is a direct attack on the rule of law and a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.\u00a0 In short, President Obama's executive power overreach is unparalleled in American history and shows a blatant disregard for basic constitutional principles.\"\n\n\tBrooks added, \"The Constitution empowers\u00a0Congress, the American people\u2019s most direct representatives, to enact laws (subject to presidential signature or veto).\u00a0 The President has a duty\u00a0under the Constitution's \"Take Care Clause\" to obey and enforce laws properly enacted.\u00a0 Given President Obama's power overreach, it is Congress's duty to defend the Constitution.\"\n\n\tBrooks concluded, \"For more than two centuries, Senate filibuster powers forced presidents to nominate centrist, unbiased judges to interpret laws and the Constitution.\u00a0 Yesterday, Senator Harry Reid and the Democrat majority destroyed minority rights, thus empowering presidents to nominate extremist judges who can, because of partisanship, preconceived bias,\u00a0or other extremist views, disregard the Constitution and established law.\u00a0 The net result:\u00a0 there is now nothing any Senate minority can do to stop President Obama from nominating federal judges whose sole function is to undermine the\u00a0Constitution\u00a0and ratify presidential powers unrivaled in American history.\u00a0 Yesterday the Senate stripped Lady Justice of her blindfold and dangerously tipped the scales of justice out of balance.\"\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tThis resolution:\n \n\t\n\t\tDisapproves of the President\u2019s failure to \u201ctake Care that the Laws be faithfully executed\u201d as required by the Constitution;\n\t\n\t\tDisapproves of the President's usurpation of the legislative power of Congress through the rewriting of key provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; and\n\t\n\t\tReaffirms that the preservation of the Constitution\u2019s separation of powers is essential for the protection of individual liberty and the maintenance of the rule of law.\n \n\n\t*Click here to read H.Res. 425.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/capitol-hill-mom-caucus-growing", "On Capitol Hill, the Mom Caucus Is Growing", "2013-11-21", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "At a press conference last year, Luke Russert asked House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi why, at 72, she didn\u2019t pass the torch to a younger Democrat. He then received a televised schooling in man years and woman years. While the other Democratic women of the House booed Russert, Pelosi explained that her male colleagues had gotten a jump-start on her, since she waited until her youngest child was headed to college to run for office. \u201cYou gotta take off 14 years off [my age] because I was home raising a family,\u201d she said, adding that she had worked throughout her career to bring younger candidates \u2014 and especially younger women \u2014 into the fold. To a certain extent, she\u2019s succeeded. Where the previous generation of women arrived on Capitol Hill empty-nesters (Dianne Feinstein) or child-free (Barbara Mikulski), the rising class includes a number of younger women with school-age children. Legislators like Kirsten Gillibrand, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, and Kelly Ayotte are in the throes of motherhood\u2019s most hectic years \u2014 the days of sleepovers and permission slips, memorably detailed by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz in the New York Times\u2019 Motherlode blog last year. And that cohort may soon be joined by more moms. Stephanie Schriock, president of the Democratic women\u2019s recruitment and fundraising group EMILY\u2019s List, called the 2014 slate a \u201csea change\u201d for women. \u201cWe\u2019ll see more moms of young children run and we\u2019ll elect more moms of young children and we\u2019ll have more policy outcomes that are reflective of women and families,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s a set of voices we desperately need.\u201d In Georgia, there\u2019s Michelle Nunn: After announcing her bid for retiring Senator Saxby Chambliss\u2019s seat, she traveled around the state in her minivan with her husband and her sons, ages 8 and 10. In Iowa, former State Senator Staci Appel, a mother of six famous for campaigning pregnant, will make a run for the House. West Virginia\u2019s Secretary of State Natalie Tennant \u2014 mom to Delaney \u2014 will run for senator. Wyoming hopeful Liz Cheney has two children under the age of ten, among more vocal family members. These women stand to close the fourteen-year baby detour that has kept women from ascending to leadership positions until they\u2019re old enough to elicit Luke Russert\u2019s shade. \u201cThe more compressed your career is, the harder it is to reach a position of power,\u201d said Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz. The Democratic National Committee chair is still grateful she had the guts to run for the state house at 26, against the recommendation of the \u201cgood old boys\u201d who told her it wasn\u2019t her turn. \u201cIt gave me the opportunity to have a much longer ramp than women generations before me, who typically made those decisions when their kids were older and less dependent on mom,\u201d she said. Mothers of young children are just one segment of the gradually diversifying legislature, but their early and sustained presence has the potential for long-term consequences. Democratic New York Representative Grace Meng, whose sons are 5 and 4, first assumed being the mom who couldn\u2019t go to weekend conferences would put her at a competitive disadvantage. Now, though, she thinks it gives her a valuable political perspective. \u201cPeople like to talk about children, but it\u2019s hard to get at the substantive issues,\u201d she said. \u201cKids don\u2019t have an advocate or a lobbyist helping them.\u201d The influence of those with immediate firsthand knowledge of children spans from straightforward practical matters (like bills banning expired baby formula and drop-side cribs) to high-profile legislative battles, like sequestration cuts that directly affect children in WIC and Head Start programs, Meng explained. Republican moms \u2014 though less numerous than Democrats \u2014 show how a maternal perspective can be marshaled for conservative politics, too. Last spring, Alabama Representative Martha Roby proposed the Working Families Flexibility Act, a bill that would allow private employers to pay employees for overtime hours in comp time instead of time-and-a-half \u2014 and opened up a Congressional theater in the mommy wars. Republicans said that Democrats who opposed the bill didn't care about working mothers in ads on mommy blogs; Democrats called the bill a \u201cdeplorable,\u201d \u201cshameful,\u201d \u201cappalling\u201d Mother\u2019s Day gift that would weaken labor laws. As for Roby, she said the bill stems from her personal experience with the push and pull of being a working mom. \u201cI understand that time is far more valuable than the cash dollars for overtime,\u201d she said. Like any career, legislative success depends on finding a roadmap to navigate the logistics of Congressional motherhood. Wasserman Schultz\u2019s youngest was 1 when she was sworn in as a U.S. Representative in 2005, and since then she\u2019s become House Democrats\u2019 unofficial mom adviser, sought by Congressional hopefuls (including a pre-Senate appointment Kirsten Gillibrand) and dispatched by EMILY\u2019s List to assuage recruits. \u201cMoms have a whole lot of questions about how you make it work, particularly when they\u2019re the primary caretaker, as most women are,\u201d she said. As a strain of work-life balance, holding federal legislative office presents unique challenges. The late-night votes and cross-country commutes preclude the Sheryl Sandberg method of ducking out at 5:30 for homework help and dinner before logging back on remotely after bedtime. And nor is electoral politics \u2014 with the constant pressures of fundraising and re-election \u2014 fit for the fluid \u201csee-saw marriages\u201d prescribed by Hanna Rosin, in which partners trade off years as caretaker and breadwinner. (Unless you\u2019re a Clinton.) The first thing, Wasserman Schultz says, is to make sure the candidate\u2019s spouse, partner, parents, and in-laws are wholly on board. \u201cThe last thing you want is to come home on the weekend and have to deal with stress raining down from your family because they haven\u2019t bought into your decision to make this career move,\u201d she said. Then there\u2019s the question of where to live. For some parents of young children, like Roby, keeping their families in their home district is a way of drawing a line between work time and family time. \u201cIf they were here I would feel so pulled away from them during the week,\u201d Roby said of her daughter and son, ages 8 and 4, who live in Alabama with her husband, the babysitter, and plenty of grandparents. Rather than feel conflicted about each working dinner or nighttime speech, she can fly home on Fridays in full mom-mode. Some of the challenges, finally, are devilishly mundane. Wasserman Schultz says parents must train their young, childless staffers to respect family responsibilities, like the fax- and iPad-enabled homework review time she had put on her daily schedule. Roby lives in weeklong crusades, using weekends to strategize. \u201cI go to the grocery store on the weekends, and I cook for the week \u2014 just fill the refrigerator \u2014 so it\u2019s one less thing my husband has to worry about,\u201d she said. Meng takes the opposite tack. From fellow delegation moms Sen. Gillibrand and Rep. Carolyn Maloney she gets practical tips \u2014 \u201cteaching your husband to cook more, for example\u201d \u2014 and big-picture encouragement. When she misses her kids, which is more often now that they\u2019re talking, she says, \u201cThey remind me that I\u2019m making a long-term investment in our country.\u201d\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=26610db1-33e4-4ba1-b80b-fa3318af4919", "Shelby Opposes Senate Democrats' Power Grab", "2013-11-21", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "www.shelby.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Shelby Opposes Senate Democrats' Power Grab\r\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Thursday, November 21, 2013 -- U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today firmly opposed adoption of the so-called nuclear option, a blatant power grab by Democrats that changes Senate rules for the consideration of most executive and judicial branch nominations. The rule change allows for the approval of objectionable presidential nominees on a simple majority vote instead of the 60-vote threshold long respected by both parties when in power.\u00a0 This drastic move sets a dangerous precedent that could later be expanded to speed passage of expansive and controversial legislation.\r\n\u201cSenate Democrats voted to force Obamacare on the American people,\u201d said Shelby.\u00a0 \u201cDespite that disastrous exercise of power, they have now voted to give themselves even more of it.\u201d\r\n\u201cIf Democrats think that they deserve more power, they should earn it from voters at the polls in 2014, not swipe it with a drastic rule change in the Senate today.\u201d\r\n\u201cUnfortunately, this radical move will allow President Obama to stack the executive and judicial branches with radical individuals who will do anything to preserve the terrible legislation that bears his name.\r\n\u201cAnd make no mistake; today\u2019s power grab is just the beginning.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140307164100/http://www.shelby.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsarticles?ContentRecord_id=9fbbec9a-d9a7-4124-8cf6-888eebddfead", "AL.com: Sen. Shelby votes against Janet Yellen for Fed chief: 'No confidence she will change course'", "2013-11-21", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Richard Shelby", "S000320", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Leada Gore | lgore@al.com \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tSen. Richard Shelby votes against Janet Yellen for Fed chief: 'No confidence she will change course'\nThe nomination of Janet Yellen to be the next leader of the Federal Reserve cleared the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday without the support of Alabama Senator Richard Shelby.\nShelby, former chairman and current member of the Banking Committee, joined six fellow Republicans and one Democrat voting against Yellen. The committee approved the nomination 14-8. It now heads to the full Senate where the recent rules change would allow it to proceed with only a majority vote.\nShelby, who met with Yellen for almost an hour in late October, said his vote reflects a lack of confidence she will reverse the Obama administration's current fiscal policies.\n\"Since 2008, the Fed's printing presses have generated a backdoor stimulus nearly four times greater than the $787 Obama stimulus,\" Shelby said. \"The Fed is the world's largest holder of U.S. Treasury bonds and the biggest enabler of our exploding debt. These actions also present massive risks for sharp price increases on every single product that Americans buy.\n\"I voted against President Obama's nominee because I have no confidence that she will change course.\"\nIn previous testimony, Yellen said she supported the administration's stimulus policy, despite criticism it artificially inflates stock prices. The Fed is now faced with tapering off the stimulus while trying to hold down long-term interest rates and keeping economic growth moving.\nIn a July 17 speech, Shelby said the stimulus process is being used to \"prop up markets since the financial meltdown of 2008. The implied message is striking: The Fed is taking big risks through monetary policy because administration policy is not helping the economy.\"\nShelby said the Federal Reserve's balance sheet now stands at $3.5 trillion and continues to grow by $85 billion a month. Among those assets are $2 trillion in U.S. Treasury securities and $1.2 trillion in federal agency mortgage-backed securities.\n\"To put the acceleration of the Fed's balance sheet into perspective, it took 95 years from the Fed's creation in 1913 to reach $1 trillion,\" Shelby said. \"The Fed then added the second trillion in just six weeks, followed by the third trillion this past January. Under the current quantitative easing program, the Fed's balance sheet will reach $4 trillion in less than six months.\n\"Where does it end? $5 trillion? $6 trillion? $10 trillion?\"\nSix Senate Republicans have said they support Yellen's nomination to succeed Ben Bernanke which would give the current Fed vice chair enough for confirmation. If approved, she will become the first women to lead the Federal Reserves.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-ramsay-high-school-being-recognized", "Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on Ramsay High School Being Recognized as a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School", "2013-11-20", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on Ramsay High School being named a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE).\nI am so proud of the teachers, administrators and students of Ramsay High School in Birmingham for earning this prestigious award. Ramsay High School is highly deserving of this recognition for its exceptional academic standards and exemplary student body.\nAs one of Alabama's five National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2013, Ramsay High School has become a model and inspiration for schools across this nation. This achievement proves that public schools in Birmingham can succeed in educating and preparing our children to compete nationally. I am honored to have Ramsey High School in the 7th congressional district and congratulate them on this outstanding recognition.\"\nAbout Ramsey High School:\nRamsay High School is located in Birmingham, Alabama beneath the foothills of Vulcan. Over 750 students throughout the Birmingham-metro area in grades nine through twelve are enrolled. A wide array of advance placement courses and extracurricular activities are offered. Ramsay is also an International Baccalaureate World School.\nOver sixty percent of Ramsay's students are economically disadvantaged. Approximately sixty percent of its students come from single parent families and 68 percent receive free or reduced lunch. Despite these circumstances, the consistent academic performance of the students enrolled has landed Ramsay as the 6th best high school in Alabama by World News Magazine and one of the best in the nation.\nAbout the National Blue Ribbon Award:\nThe DOE will honor Ramsay High School along with 235 other public and 50 private schools in a recognition ceremony today in Washington, D.C. Ramsay High School is one of five schools in Alabama that have been nominated for the national Blue Ribbon School program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/houses-passes-keep-your-health-plan-act", "Houses Passes Keep Your Health Plan Act", "2013-11-19", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Friday, H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The bill would allow Americans who want to keep their non-Affordable Care Act insurance to keep their plans.\nCongressman Mike Rogers (R) from Saks joined the other four Republicans in Alabama's Congressional Delegation voted for the Keep Your Health Plan Act.\nRogers said, \u201cThis legislation, introduced by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI), would allow health care plans on the individual market to remain available so people could have the option to keep their current health care plans.\u201d \u201cAlthough this bill would help in the short term, there is no substitute for getting rid of Obamacare altogether.\u201d\nCongresswoman Martha Roby (R) from Montgomery said in a written statement \u201cToday the House acted in a bipartisan way to protect hard-working Americans from unfair rate hikes and plan cancellations. The President made a promise to the American people, and now the House of Representatives has moved to provide legislative reassurance that if Americans like their health care plans, they will truly be able to keep them.\u201d\nRepresentative Mo Brooks (R) from Huntsville said,\n\"President Obama promised Americans that \u2018Yes We Can\u2019 keep our health insurance when, in fact, the President meant \u2018No We Can't.\u2019 It's been one month since the Affordable Care Act opened for enrollment, and, contrary to the President's false promise, millions of Americans' health plans have been canceled, thus putting hard-working American family finances, health care, and lives at risk. I cosponsored the Keep Your Health Plan Act to guarantee that those enrolled in a health plan as of January 1, 2013, may remain enrolled on that plan regardless of Obamacare mandates. Hopefully, President Obama will stop blocking health insurance providers from providing affordable health care and insurance that has served so many Americans so well for so long. It is time for Big Brother to step aside and let Americans have the freedom to control their own fate.\"\nRep. Roby said, \u201cThis is an issue on which many Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. The \u2018Keep Your Health Plan Act\u2019 won\u2019t fix every problem with ObamaCare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes. Similar legislation also has broad bipartisan support in the Senate, and I urge Majority Leader Harry Reid to bring the bill forward for a vote right away.\u201d\nThe Republican members of Alabama's congressional delegation have been highly critical of President Barack Obama's controversial healthcare reform proposal.\nRep. Rogers said in his monthly column,\n\u201cAmerica is over six weeks in to the Obamacare rollout, and things are still a mess. People are still having problems signing up, but even more painful are the letters folks are receiving about the changes to their current health care plans. Every day we are hearing more and more about people\u2019s current health care plans being dropped completely. Because of this, families and individuals are now being forced into different and often times much more expensive health care plans....Many folks across East Alabama may have to make the tough decision to forego their health insurance because of unforeseen increases in the cost of their health care premiums and deductibles. Yet under Obamacare, folks are required to purchase health insurance by March of 2014 to avoid paying a penalty. They just cannot afford any of it.\u201d\nRep. Brooks said, \"With respect to health insurance policies that have been canceled because of the President\u2019s healthcare law, I urge President Obama to change his mantra from \u2018No We Can't\u2019, to \u2018Yes We Can' keep our health care and health insurance. The Keep Your Health Plan Act does exactly that. Congress should, and must, force the President to keep his promises. Quite frankly, hardworking Americans deserve no less.\"\nThe website to sign up for Obamacare, Healthcare.gov, still is not working. Millions of Americans have lost their coverage and millions more will when the employer mandate goes into effect this time next year. Some estimates claim that as many as 90 million Americans will be forced off of their current coverage as more of the Affordable Care Act goes into effect.\nAmericans are losing their coverage due to Obamacare legislating their old coverage out of existence or their employer moving them to part time to avoid the high cost of insuring full time employees. Many are finding that they either can't afford the costly new healthcare insurance if and when the President is finally able to get his website to even accept their application.\nEven though President Obama promised all Americans that if they like their healthcare insurance they could keep it when he was promoting the legislation,\nPresident Obama has vowed to veto the bill if it is passed by the Senate.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/bi-partisan-cyber-security-experts-unanimously-agree-healthcaregov-unsafe", "Bi-Partisan Cyber-Security Experts Unanimously Agree HealthCare.gov Unsafe for Americans to Use", "2013-11-19", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, the Science, Space, and Technology Committee held a hearing titled Is My Data on Healthcare.gov Secure? According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.gov, was not fully security tested before it went public last month, thus exposing Americans who use HealthCare.gov to identity theft and other cyber-attack risks.Today, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) pressed a bi-partisan panel of cyber-security experts to state whether they would personally advise Americans to use, or not use, HealthCare.gov in light of its security flaws.They unanimously agreed that they would not advise Americans to use HealthCare.gov because the cyber-security risks could result in identity theft or other financial losses for HealthCare.gov users.  The witnesses who testified today were:  Mr. Morgan Wright, Chief Executive Officer, Crowd Sourced Investigations, LLC  Dr. Fred Chang, Bobby B. Lyle Centennial Distinguished Chair in Cyber Security, Southern Methodist University  Dr. Avi Rubin, Director, Health and Medical Security Laboratory Technical Director, Information Security Institute, Johns Hopkins University (JHU)  Mr. David Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer, TrustedSEC, LLC  Congressman Brooks said, By coercing Americans into using HealthCare.gov, regardless of cyber-security threats, this Administration puts the political need for a successful rollout of socialized medicine ahead of hardworking Americans who will suffer the consequences.  Brooks concluded, I find it appalling and outrageous that this Administration desperately persists in coercing American citizens into using a website that does not work while exposing users to unlimited identity theft and financial loss risks. At a minimum, this Administration should reimburse American citizens for cyber-security losses incurred by their having done nothing more than obey ObamaCare law. To date, this Administration has not offered to compensate American citizens for identity theft and other financial losses caused by HealthCare.gov cyber-security failings. No words can adequately express the depth of concern I have about a Big Brother' policy that forcibly puts so many American families at risk for uncompensated financial loss. For video of the Q&A, click HERE. Partial Transcript:   Congressman Brooks: Given healthcare.gov security issues and assuming for the moment that you would be personally responsible for all damages incurred, if any, from your advice, would any of you advise an American citizen to use this website as the security issues now exist? Yes or No.  Mr. Kennedy: No sir not at this time.  Mr. Wright: Same answer.  Dr. Chang: Same answer.  Dr. Rubin: Yeah I wouldn't, yeah.  Congressman Brooks: So it is a unanimous no- don't use the website because of the security risk?  Dr. Rubin: I would say that the security would have to be studied a lot more carefully before I would agree to that.  Congressman Brooks: Thank you for your insight. I hope the American people are listening, and with that Mr. Chairman, thank you for the time.   ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132729/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1086", "Bi-Partisan Cyber-Security Experts Unanimously Agree HealthCare.gov Unsafe for Americans to Use", "2013-11-19", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Science, Space, and Technology Committee held a hearing titled \u201cIs My Data on Healthcare.gov Secure?\u201d \u00a0According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the ObamaCare website, HealthCare.gov, was not fully security tested before it went public last month, thus exposing Americans who use HealthCare.gov to identity theft and other cyber-attack risks.Today, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) pressed a bi-partisan panel of cyber-security experts to state whether they would personally advise Americans to use, or not use, HealthCare.gov in light of its security flaws.They unanimously agreed that they would not advise Americans to use HealthCare.gov because the cyber-security risks could result in identity theft or other financial losses for HealthCare.gov users.\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tThe witnesses who testified today were:\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tMr. Morgan Wright, Chief Executive Officer, Crowd Sourced Investigations, LLC\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tDr. Fred Chang, Bobby B. Lyle Centennial Distinguished Chair in Cyber Security, Southern Methodist University\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tDr. Avi Rubin, Director, Health and Medical Security Laboratory Technical Director, Information Security Institute, Johns Hopkins University (JHU)\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tMr. David Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer, TrustedSEC, LLC\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tCongressman Brooks said, \u201cBy coercing Americans into using HealthCare.gov, regardless of cyber-security threats, this Administration puts the political need for a successful rollout of socialized medicine ahead of hardworking Americans who will suffer the consequences.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tBrooks concluded, \u201cI find it appalling and outrageous that this Administration desperately persists in coercing American citizens into using a website that does not work while exposing users to unlimited identity theft and financial loss risks.\u00a0 At a minimum, this Administration should reimburse American citizens for cyber-security losses incurred by their having done nothing more than obey ObamaCare law. To date, this Administration has not offered to compensate American citizens for identity theft and other financial losses caused by HealthCare.gov cyber-security failings.\u00a0 No words can adequately express the depth of concern I have about a \u2018Big Brother\u2019 policy that forcibly puts so many American families at risk for uncompensated financial loss.\u201d\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t\n\n\tFor video of the Q&A, click HERE.\n\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tPartial Transcript: \n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tCongressman Brooks:\u00a0 \u201cGiven healthcare.gov security issues and assuming for the moment that you would be personally responsible for all damages incurred, if any, from your advice, would any of you advise an American citizen to use this website as the security issues now exist? Yes or No.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tMr. Kennedy: \u201cNo sir not at this time.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tMr. Wright:\u00a0 \u201cSame answer.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tDr. Chang:\u00a0 \u201cSame answer.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tDr. Rubin: \u201cYeah I wouldn\u2019t, yeah.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tCongressman Brooks:\u00a0 \u201cSo it is a unanimous no- don\u2019t use the website because of the security risk?\u201d\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tDr. Rubin: \u201cI would say that the security would have to be studied a lot more carefully before I would agree to that.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\tCongressman Brooks: \u00a0\u201cThank you for your insight. I hope the American people are listening, and with that Mr. Chairman, thank you for the time.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-broken-promises-hurt-americans", "Brooks: Broken Promises Hurt Americans", "2013-11-18", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House early this afternoon to share accounts from families in Alabama's 5th District impacted by the failed promises of ObamaCare. Congressman Brooks also expressed his support for the American Health Care Reform Act, a positive alternative to ObamaCare, that would give American taxpayers back their right to choose healthcare policies best tailored to their needs. Congressman Brooks said, ObamaCare has caused millions of Americans to receive health insurance cancellation letters, leaving them struggling with how to protect their families. Unfortunately, President Obama's recent apology for his deception has not stopped these cancellation notices, nor slowed skyrocketing health insurance costs for countless families in North Alabama and across the country. Brooks continued, The fact remains, ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens American lives, but there is a better way. The American Health Care Reform Act, which I have cosponsored, unleashes the power of free enterprise competition to deliver quality health care at prices Americans can better afford.Text of Congressman Brooks' remarks: Mr. Speaker, On June 15, 2009, in order to get ObamaCare passed, President Obama promised America, If you like your health care plan, you'll be able to keep your health care plan, period. No one will be able to take it away, no matter what.' On June 28, 2012, in order to get reelection votes, President Obama promised, If you're one of the more than 250 million Americans who already have health insurance, you will keep your health insurance  this law will only make it more secure and more affordable.' President Obama's recent apology for his deception has not stopped cancellation of millions... millionsof American health insurance plans nor slowed the ObamaCare-caused skyrocketing health insurance costs. ObamaCare forces families to, on the one hand, pay higher ObamaCare health insurance costs and cut spending for food, shelter, and clothing or, on the other hand, go without health insurance and pay tax penalties while risking health care caused bankruptcy. Montana Democrat Senator Max Baucus, the Senate sponsor of ObamaCare, warned us earlier this year that ObamaCare was a train wreck waiting to happen. Well, the verdict is in. ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens the lives and finances of millions of real hardworking Americans. Mark Templeton of Huntsville, Alabama writes: I just received a notice from [BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama] yesterday indicating my Total Blue plan was no longer available due to the [Affordable Care Act]. My family coverage increased from $450 dollars per month to $1187 per month for similar coverage. They were kind enough to offer the more affordable and considerably worse Silver plan for only $937 dollars per month. I don't qualify for any subsidies, so this will directly hit my household finances. Please make every effort to stop the [Affordable Care Act] from affecting any more Tennessee Valley families and businesses.'  Jessica Moore of Ardmore, Alabama writes: I am writing about the not so Affordable Healthcare Act. My health insurance premiums are going up by 118% with Blue Cross Blue Shield. The Healthcare Marketplace will be of no help to me, as I make \"too much\" money. I am a single Iraq veteran. I am my sole income. I am perfectly healthy. The amount in which my premium was raised is how much money I have left in the bank at the end of the month. I do not live beyond my means. I am a faithful taxpayer. The [Affordable Care Act] premium hikes are not affordable to me, nor to many other honest taxpayers. Please help the already taxed to the max middle class on this issue.' ObamaCare has caused millions of Americans to receive health insurance cancellation letters, leaving them struggling with how to protect their families. Thanks to ObamaCare, a year from now, tens of millions more Americans risk losing their health insurance once ObamaCare's employer mandate kicks in. Mr. Speaker, while ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens American lives, there is a better way. The American Health Care Reform Act, which I have cosponsored, unleashes the power of free enterprise competition to deliver quality health care at prices Americans can better afford. Among other things, this bill: First, forces lower health care costs by legalizing interstate competition among insurance companies.Second, reforms medical malpractice laws so that health insurance is paying for health care, not frivolous lawsuits.Third, lets Americans deduct health care costs and gives Americans a standard deduction for health insurance costs.Four, protects Americans with pre-existing conditions by bolstering state-based high risk pools. \"Mr. Speaker, health care decisions should be made by doctors and patients, not Washington bureaucrats.  Quite frankly, Big Brother bureaucrats have no business butting in and forcing Americans to buy health insurance Americans cannot afford or do not want. ObamaCare denies hardworking American taxpayers their right, yes, their right, to choose the healthcare policy best tailored to their needs. Mr. Speaker, ObamaCare should be repealed and America should debate health care solutions based on truth, not deception. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923132933/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1085", "Brooks: Broken Promises Hurt Americans", "2013-11-18", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House early this afternoon to share accounts from families in Alabama\u2019s 5th District impacted by the failed promises of ObamaCare. Congressman Brooks also expressed his support for the American Health Care Reform Act, a positive alternative to ObamaCare, that would give American taxpayers back their right to choose healthcare policies best tailored to their needs.\u00a0\n\n\tCongressman Brooks said, \u201cObamaCare has caused millions of Americans to receive health insurance cancellation letters, leaving them struggling with how to protect their families. Unfortunately, President Obama\u2019s recent apology for his deception has not stopped these cancellation notices, nor slowed skyrocketing health insurance costs for countless families in North Alabama and across the country.\u201d\n\n\tBrooks continued, \u201cThe fact remains, ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens American lives, but there is a better way. The American Health Care Reform Act, which I have cosponsored, unleashes the power of free enterprise competition to deliver quality health care at prices Americans can better afford.\u201d\n\n\tAmong other things, theAmerican Health Care Reform Act:\n \n\t\n\t\tFirst, forces lower health care costs by legalizing interstate competition among insurance companies.\n\t\n\t\tSecond, reforms medical malpractice laws so that health insurance is paying for health care, not frivolous lawsuits.\n\t\n\t\tThird, lets Americans deduct health care costs and gives Americans a standard deduction for health insurance costs.\n\t\n\t\tFour, protects Americans with pre-existing conditions by bolstering state-based high risk pools.\n \n\n\t\n\n\t\u00a0 Video of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks is available HERE.\n\n\t\n\t\tText of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks:\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, On June 15, 2009, in order to get ObamaCare passed, President Obama promised America, \u2018If you like your health care plan, you\u2019ll be able to keep your health care plan, period. No one will be able to take it away, no matter what.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cOn June 28, 2012, in order to get reelection votes, President Obama promised, \u2018If you\u2019re one of the more than 250 million Americans who already have health insurance, you will keep your health insurance \u2013 this law will only make it more secure and more affordable.\u2019\n\t\n\t\t\u201cPresident Obama\u2019s recent apology for his deception has not stopped cancellation of millions... millionsof American health insurance plans nor slowed the ObamaCare-caused skyrocketing health insurance costs.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cObamaCare forces families to, on the one hand, pay higher ObamaCare health insurance costs and cut spending for food, shelter, and clothing or, on the other hand, go without health insurance and pay tax penalties while risking health care caused bankruptcy.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMontana Democrat Senator Max Baucus, the Senate sponsor of ObamaCare, warned us earlier this year that ObamaCare was a train wreck waiting to happen.\u00a0 Well, the verdict is in.\u00a0 ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens the lives and finances of millions of real hardworking Americans.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMark Templeton of Huntsville, Alabama writes:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u2018I just received a notice from [BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama] yesterday indicating my Total Blue plan was no longer available due to the [Affordable Care Act]. My family coverage increased from $450 dollars per month to $1187 per month for similar coverage. They were kind enough to offer the more affordable and considerably worse Silver plan for only $937 dollars per month. I don't qualify for any subsidies, so this will directly hit my household finances.\u00a0 Please make every effort to stop the [Affordable Care Act] from affecting any more Tennessee Valley families and businesses.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cJessica Moore of Ardmore, Alabama writes:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u2018I am writing about the not so Affordable Healthcare Act. My health insurance premiums are going up by 118% with Blue Cross Blue Shield. The Healthcare Marketplace will be of no help to me, as I make \"too much\" money. I am a single Iraq veteran. I am my sole income. I am perfectly healthy. The amount in which my premium was raised is how much money I have left in the bank at the end of the month. I do not live beyond my means. I am a faithful taxpayer. The [Affordable Care Act] premium hikes are not affordable to me, nor to many other honest taxpayers. Please help the already \u201ctaxed to the max\u201d middle class on this issue.\u2019\n\t\n\t\t\u201cObamaCare has caused millions of Americans to receive health insurance cancellation letters, leaving them struggling with how to protect their families.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cThanks to ObamaCare, a year from now, tens of millions more Americans risk losing their health insurance once ObamaCare\u2019s employer mandate kicks in.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, while ObamaCare is dysfunctional and threatens American lives, there is a better way.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cThe American Health Care Reform Act, which I have cosponsored, unleashes the power of free enterprise competition to deliver quality health care at prices Americans can better afford.\u00a0 Among other things, this bill:\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tFirst, forces lower health care costs by legalizing interstate competition among insurance companies.\n\t\t\n\t\t\tSecond, reforms medical malpractice laws so that health insurance is paying for health care, not frivolous lawsuits.\n\t\t\n\t\t\tThird, lets Americans deduct health care costs and gives Americans a standard deduction for health insurance costs.\n\t\t\n\t\t\tFour, protects Americans with pre-existing conditions by bolstering state-based high risk pools.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t \n\t\n\t\t\"Mr. Speaker, health care decisions should be made by doctors and patients, not Washington bureaucrats.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cQuite frankly, Big Brother bureaucrats have no business butting in and forcing Americans to buy health insurance Americans cannot afford or do not want.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cObamaCare denies hardworking American taxpayers their right, yes, their right, to choose the healthcare policy best tailored to their needs.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, ObamaCare should be repealed and America should debate health care solutions based on truth, not deception.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/rogers-praises-passage-%E2%80%9Ckeep-your-health-plan-act%E2%80%9D", "Rogers Praises Passage of \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act\u201d", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mike Rogers", "R000575", "mike-rogers.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(WASHINGTON, DC)\u2014Congressman Mike Rogers said he was pleased to see the passage of H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013, in the House of Representatives today. This bill, if passed by the Senate and signed by the president, would allow health care plans on the individual market to remain available so people across East Alabama can have the option to keep their current health care plans. Rogers was a cosponsor of the legislation introduced by Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI).\n\u201cThe passage of the Keep Your Health Plan Act could help remedy a huge problem with Obamacare. Although the President promised time and time again Americans could keep their health plans, on October 1st, many people received letters from their health plan providers that stated the opposite. This bill will help fix that problem by allowing people to keep their current plans.\n\u201cAmericans are suffering because of the Obamacare disaster and I will continue to work to repeal it. Since the Senate refuses to accept reality that the law is broken, I hope they will quickly act on this bill to help bring some relief to hard-working Americans being hurt by rising healthcare premiums and the loss of their health plans,\u201d Rogers said.\nRogers serves as Chairman of the Strategic Forces subcommittee on the Armed Services Committee and is a senior member of the Homeland Security and Agriculture committees.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 -###-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-bipartisan-%E2%80%9Ckeep-your-health-plan-act%E2%80%9D-will-hold-obama-his-promise", "Roby: Bipartisan \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act\u201d Will Hold Obama to His Promise", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today applauded the bipartisan passage of the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act\u201d which would hold President Obama to his promise that \u201cif you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health plan. Period.\u201d \u00a0 \u201cToday the House acted in a bipartisan way to protect hard-working Americans from unfair rate hikes and plan cancellations. The President made a promise to the American people, and now the House of Representatives has moved to provide legislative reassurance that if Americans like their health care plans, they will truly be able to keep them. \u201cThis is an issue on which many Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. The \u2018Keep Your Health Plan Act\u2019 won\u2019t fix every problem with ObamaCare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes. Similar legislation also has broad bipartisan support in the Senate, and I urge Majority Leader Harry Reid to bring the bill forward for a vote right away. President Obama announced Thursday he would pursue an \"administrative\" change that would allow insurers to continue offering canceled insurance plans for another year even though they may not comply with the Affordable Care Act. \u201cThe good news is the President is finally waking up and acknowledging that people are hurting because of this law. And there\u2019s no question our efforts to tell the stories of what real people are going through put pressure on the Administration to act. \u201cThe problem is ObamaCare can\u2019t be fixed through executive orders. What you\u2019re seeing now is just the beginning. It\u2019s going to get worse. We need to start over and build a health care system that isn\u2019t run by the government and can actually focus on the needs of patients. \u201cI recently reached out to Alabamians asking those who have experienced health plan cancellations or rate increases because of ObamaCare to tell me their stories. The response has been overwhelming, and I shared a handful of them on the House floor yesterday.\u201d The \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act\u201d passed 261 to 157. Complete text of the legislation can be found here. Constituents can still share their ObamaCare stories with Rep. Roby on Facebook or Twitter, by email, or by calling Rep. Roby\u2019s Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-2901.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-congressional-republicans-united-yes-vote-keep-your-healthcare-act", "Alabama congressional Republicans united in 'yes' vote for Keep Your Healthcare Act", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Alabama's five Republican representatives all voted in favor Friday of a plan allowing insurers to continue to offer existing health coverage even if they don't meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act. The Keep Your Healthcare Act passed on a vote of 261-157 with 39 Democrats joining all but four Republicans supporting the bill introduced by Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich. Reps. Martha Roby, Mo Brooks, Mike Rogers, Spencer Bachus and Robert Aderholt voted in favor of the bill. Alabama's only Democratic representative, Terri Sewell, voted against the measure that would allow insurance providers to continue to offer cheaper plans purchased or substantially altered since the ACA was passed three years ago. President Obama warned he would veto the bill if it reaches his desk. On Thursday, the president said an administrative fix allowing a one-year grace period in which people will be able to keep their existing insurance coverage will solve the issue of policy cancellations that has plagued the ACA since its Oct. 1 rollout. Roby said the bipartisan passage of the bill would \"hold the president to his promise that 'if you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health plan. Period.\" \"This is an issue on which many Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. The 'Keep Your Health Plan Act' won't fix every problem with Obamacare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes,\" she said. Bachus said the bill provides relief to people in danger of losing their current coverage but emphasized the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, is fundamentally flawed and needs to be replaced. \"Obamacare is one of the biggest political fiascos that I have ever seen. It was always a big government 'solution' and we know those do not work,\" Bachus said. \"The basic structure of Obamacare is unsound and the lasting answer is to replace it with common sense reforms that will improve affordability and accessibility without putting federal bureaucrats in Washington in charge of your private health care.\" The Senate will now take up its version of the bill. Introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson, of Wisconsin, the bill has garnered support from several Democratic senators. The bill has 43 co-sponsors, including Alabama Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions. Rogers called on the Democratic-controlled Senate to pass the bill and send it to the president. \"Americans are suffering because of the Obamacare disaster, and I will continue to work to repeal it. Since the Senate refuses to accept reality that the law is broken, I hope they will quickly act on this bill to help bring some relief to hard-working Americans being hurt by rising healthcare premiums and the loss of their health plans,\" Rogers said.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-republicans-unanimous-support-%E2%80%98keep-your-health-plan-act%E2%80%99", "Alabama Republicans unanimous in support of \u2018Keep Your Health Plan Act\u2019", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Friday afternoon, the U.S. House passed the Keep Your Health Plan Act, allowing individuals to keep their private health insurance plans even if those plans don\u2019t meet the ObamaCare coverage requirements. Every Republican in Alabama\u2019s congressional delegation voted in favor of the bill, which ultimately passed with bipartisan support by a 261-157 vote. \u201cAmerica is over six weeks into the ObamaCare rollout and things are just a mess,\u201d Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Saks, said on the House floor prior to the vote. \u201cFamilies are being forced into different and oftentimes more expensive plans\u2026 One person contacted me and said their premiums went up $200 a month. Another family contacted me and their policy premiums are going up $740 per month. The president promised from the beginning, quote, \u2018If you like your health care plan, you\u2019ll be able to keep your health care plan, period,\u2019 closed quote. But that\u2019s turned out not to be the case and he knew it all along.\u201d Rep. Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, called ObamaCare \u201cone of the biggest political fiascos that I have ever seen.\u201d \u201cThe President made a promise to the American people,\u201d Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, added. \u201cAnd now the House of Representatives has moved to provide legislative reassurance that if Americans like their health care plans, they will truly be able to keep them.\u201d Support for the GOP\u2019s bill was so overwhelming that even some Democrats \u2014 39 to be exact \u2014 were eager to go on record voting in favor of it. But President Obama had already issued a veto threat before the vote, meaning the legislation is very unlikely to become law. The president has proposed a \u201cfix\u201d that would allow only individuals whose health insurance was cancelled this year to re-enroll in their plans next year. But the GOP\u2019s bill, sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton, R-MI, allows insurers to continue offering the same plans that were available before ObamaCare rules went into effect. Upton\u2019s bill is also not only limited to a single year. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, was the only member of the Alabama delegation to vote against Upton\u2019s bill.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/americas-veterans-deserve-more-obamacares-broken-promises", "America's Veterans Deserve More than Obamacare's Broken Promises", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  This morning Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives, standing up for America's Veterans, who deserve more than the failed promises of the President's healthcare law.Video of Congressman Brooks' remarks is available HERE.Text of Congressman Brooks' remarks: Mr. Speaker, America's veterans protect America and our liberties. Which begs the question, does Obamacare keep our promises and obligations to veterans? Marcus Langford, a veteran from Huntsville, Alabama wrote me the following: I am a married father of two and a disabled vet after three tours in Iraq and over two years in Afghanistan supporting our military. My healthcare costs are $399 a month, but because of the Affordable Healthcare Act my bill will go up to $741 a month as of January 2014.' Mr. Speaker, America's veterans deserve better than the 60 percent increase in healthcare costs that the White House and its democrat congressional allies obstinately impose on hardworking Americans like Marcus Langford. The way to do better is to repeal Obamacare so that America can debate healthcare solutions based on truth not deception. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-president-obamas-plan-help", "Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on President Obama's Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to Healthcare Insurance Policies", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement in response to President Obama's Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to their Healthcare Insurance Policies:\nI remain committed to the Affordable Care Act which is designed to provide access to health care for all Americans. While no law is perfect, I believe it is imperative that we provide access to healthcare for the 42 million Americans that are uninsured. I am encouraged by the President's efforts to honor his promise to ensure that individuals keep their current plans while giving them one year to evaluate better coverage options under the Affordable Care Act. I hope that those individuals that have plans with insufficient coverage will take this year to evaluate alternative plans that may in fact be better. It is my hope that the Administration continues to make the regulatory changes necessary to improve the Affordable Care Act so that it works for all insured and uninsured Americans.\nI voted against H.R.3350 (the bill sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton) because it is yet another attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Rather than working together to improve this law, this bill seeks to unravel the protections and securities provided to the American people through the ACA. This bill puts insurance companies back in charge of our health care which could allow them to continue discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions and forcing women to pay more than men for the same coverage. We need to work together to improve the unintended consequences of the Affordable Care Act rather than dismantle it.\nFor more background about the President's announcement please visit:http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/11/14/president-obama-announces-new-steps-help-americans-receiving-insurance-cancellation-\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20131205161130/http://sewell.house.gov/press-release/statement-congresswoman-terri-sewell-president-obama%E2%80%99s-plan-help-consumers-facing", "Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on President Obama\u2019s Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to Healthcare Insurance Policies", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Statement from Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell on President Obama\u2019s Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to Healthcare Insurance Policies                                           \n              Nov 15, 2013      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n          \n  \n    \n    \n    WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement in response to President Obama\u2019s Plan to Help Consumers Facing Cancellations to their Healthcare Insurance Policies:\n\u201cI remain committed to the Affordable Care Act which is designed to provide access to health care for all Americans. While no law is perfect, I believe it is imperative that we provide access to healthcare for the 42 million Americans that are uninsured. I am encouraged by the President\u2019s efforts to honor his promise to ensure that individuals keep their current plans while giving them one year to evaluate better coverage options under the Affordable Care Act. I hope that those individuals that have plans with insufficient coverage will take this year to evaluate alternative plans that may in fact be better. It is my hope that the Administration continues to make the regulatory changes necessary to improve the Affordable Care Act so that it works for all insured and uninsured Americans.\nI voted against H.R.3350 (the bill sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton) because it is yet another attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Rather than working together to improve this law, this bill seeks to unravel the protections and securities provided to the American people through the ACA. \u00a0This bill puts insurance companies back in charge of our health care which could allow them to continue discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions and forcing women to pay more than men for the same coverage. We need to work together to improve the unintended consequences of the Affordable Care Act rather than dismantle it.\u201d\nFor more background about the President\u2019s announcement please visit: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/11/14/president-obama-announces-new-steps-help-americans-receiving-insurance-cancellation-\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923133134/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1084", "America's Veterans Deserve More than Obamacare's Broken Promises", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This morning Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives, standing up for America\u2019s Veterans, who deserve more than the failed promises of the President\u2019s healthcare law.\n\n\t\n\n\tVideo of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks is available HERE.\n\n\tText of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks:\n\n\t\u201cMr. Speaker, America\u2019s veterans protect America and our liberties. Which begs the question, does Obamacare keep our promises and obligations to veterans?\n\n\t\u201cMarcus Langford, a veteran from Huntsville, Alabama wrote me the following:\n\n\t\u2018I am a married father of two and a disabled vet after three tours in Iraq and over two years in Afghanistan supporting our military.\u00a0 My healthcare costs are $399 a month, but because of the Affordable Healthcare Act my bill will go up to $741 a month as of January 2014.\u2019\u00a0\n\n\t\u201cMr. Speaker, America\u2019s veterans deserve better than the 60 percent increase in healthcare costs that the White House and its democrat congressional allies obstinately impose on hardworking Americans like Marcus Langford. The way to do better is to repeal Obamacare so that America can debate healthcare solutions based on truth not deception.\u201d\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/video-roby-shares-constituent-health-care-stories-house-floor", "VIDEO: Roby Shares Constituent Health Care Stories on the House Floor", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) today shared personal stories from local Alabama residents about the impact that the Affordable Care Act is having on their families\u2019 health insurance. Rep. Roby also highlighted her support for the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act,\u201d which is due for a vote in the House on Friday. After reports surfaced of thousands of Alabama health insurance policyholders seeing plan cancellations or rate hikes, Rep. Roby reached out to constituents asking those who experienced such difficulties to share their personal stories.\u00a0 After receiving hundreds of responses, Rep. Roby shared a handful of health care stories from constituents in Dothan, Montgomery, Greenville, and Prattville. On Friday, the House is expected to vote on the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act,\u201d authored by Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). The bill would ensure individual policy holders who like their healthcare are truly allowed to keep it as the President originally promised. Constituents can still share their ObamaCare stories with Rep. Roby on Facebook or Twitter, by email, or by calling Rep. Roby\u2019s Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-2901. Below is the complete transcript of Rep. Roby\u2019s floor speech.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tMr. Speaker, I rise today to share some of the stories of Alabamians who are being negatively affected by implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Over the last several weeks, thousands of health insurance policy-holders in Alabama have received notice that their plans have been cancelled or altered, and their costs have risen \u2013 some quite dramatically. This despite President Obama\u2019s often-repeated and unmistakable promise to the contrary. He promised of the Affordable Care Act, quote: \u201cIf you like your doctor, you will be able to keep your doctor. Period. If you like your health care plan you be able to keep you health care plan. Period. No one will take it away, no matter what.\u201d Mr. Speaker, we now know that this wasn\u2019t true. To make matters worse, the disastrous roll out of the ObamaCare website has made it nearly impossible for those affected to search for alternatives. The president didn\u2019t tell the truth, and Americans who took him at his word are paying the price. I recently reached out to Alabamians asking those who have experienced health plan cancellations or rate increases because of ObamaCare to tell me their stories. The response has been overwhelming, and Mr. Speaker, I would like to share just a few stories here in the House this morning. Allyson Strickland, a wife and homeschooling mother of four from Dothan, writes: \u201cWe are a family of six with one income, and our premiums doubled from $420-$940 a month. We are already under great financial strain and this is not helping relieve any of the tension. At this point we are very unsure what we are going to do. With 4 growing children we know insurance is vital but at what cost to the daily needs of our family? We are very disappointed in the Obama administration.\u201d Shaun Cunningham of Montgomery writes: \u201cI am a married father of 2 beautiful little girls. My jaw dropped when I found out my family's premium was going from $400 a month to $722. I called Blue Cross first thing Monday morning but was told I needed to contact Healthcare.gov for assistance. After 6 hours on the phone with them trying to apply for a subsidy, I did manage to find out that there was a cheaper premium. I could choose the Blue Saver Bronze at a rate of $545 per month, which was still an increase over the plan I liked. The other problem? My individual deductible would be $6,350 and my family deductible would be $12,700. \u201cI fail to see anything \u2018affordable\u2019 about this.\u201d Chris Vuccovich of Montgomery: \u201cWas notified that my policy was not ACA compliant. Paying $390 for family coverage, just found out comparable plan, \"Silver\", would be $704, my out of pocket went up, so did deductibles and copays. We make too much money and will not qualify for, nor do I want, a subsidy.\u201d Leigh Hayes Wiatt of Montgomery: \u201cOur premium went up to $1374 a MONTH\u201d Angela Zacchini of Greenville: \u201cOur family of 4 is paying $417 a month and it is going to $765 a month.\u201d Jim Harrell of Prattville: \u201cMy doctor retired and told me that he was not going to deal with all the changes in the Affordable Care Act. So, I could not keep my doctor.  \n\tBoth of my adult daughters got letters indicating their policies were cancelled due to not meeting all the requirements of the new law. New policies being issued will be about 33 percent more expensive. One has a specialist doctor who is now going to charge patients a costly fee up front each year, and then pay for services rendered All these affects are negative to my family.\u201d Mr. Speaker, these individuals and families aren\u2019t statistics. They are real people from Alabama\u2019s Second Congressional District whose lives are being made more difficult because of ObamaCare. \u00a0 I don\u2019t know why the president repeatedly misled the country about the true implications of his healthcare law. This is the kind of Washington political doublespeak people are so fed up with \u2013 and this time it is hurting people in a very real way. We have an opportunity here in the House this week to make it right by acting to protect Americans from these rate hikes and plan cancellations. That\u2019s why I\u2019m co-sponsoring the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act,\u201d which will allow health care plans currently being offered to continue next year, just like the president promised. This bill also ensure that Americans choosing to maintain their health plans will not face a tax penalty under ObamaCare. I appreciate the leadership of Chairman Fred Upton of Michigan in bringing forth this legislation. The \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act,\u201d won\u2019t fix every problem with ObamaCare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes. Mr. Speaker, this isn\u2019t a partisan issue. Republicans and Democrats alike recognize the basic unfairness that has occurred here. So I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/alabama-lawmakers-blast-obamacare-change-its-last-minute-so-called-fix", "Alabama lawmakers blast Obamacare change: It's a 'last-minute, so-called fix'", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Alabama lawmakers are blasting the President's announcement that insurance companies will be allowed to offer health policies cancelled under Obamacare for another year, saying the change is only the latest effort to fix a fundamentally flawed system. \"Obamacare is hurting hard-working families across the country,\" Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Saks, said. \"Folks in East Alabama have contacted me about the changes in their current healthcare policies and the increase in their premium costs. \"The best path forward is to get rid of Obamacare altogether, and I am deeply skeptical of this most recent last-minute, so-called fix.\" Rogers, along with Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, and Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, are among the 88 co-sponsors of the \"Keep Your Health Plan Act,\" that allows people to keep their existing health insurance, a promise made by President Obama during his efforts to pass the Affordable Care Act. The president later apologized for those comments.  \n\tThe House is set to vote on the bill Friday. \"This bill has bipartisan support and is the legislation the president should sign into law, not some last minute, politically-motivated administrative move overseen by Washington bureaucrats,\" he said. Roby, who presented ACA stories from her constituents on the House floor Thursday, said the disastrous rollout of the Obamacare website has made it impossible for those affected by the changes to search for alternatives. Roby said her office received feedback from one Montgomery resident who said her family's premiums were increasing from $400 to $722 a month. The woman said she spent more than six hours on healthcare.gov trying to get more information only to find her deductibles were now much higher, Roby said. \"The president didn't tell the truth, and Americans who took him at his word are paying the price,\" Roby said. \"I don't know why the president repeatedly misled the country about the true implications of his healthcare law.\" A similar bill has also been introduced in the Democrat-controlled Senate. That bill has picked up 43 co-sponsors, including Alabama Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions. Shelby, who is also collecting ACA stories, said constituents have reported cancelled plans and rates that have skyrocketed by as much as 202 percent. \"These are real stories about the real pain that Obamacare is inflicting on families in Alabama. I will continue to fight to dismantle Obamacare as I have from the beginning and replace it with something that actually works,\" Shelby said.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/house-gop-pounces-bad-obamacare-news", "House GOP pounces on bad ObamaCare news", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House Republicans on Thursday kept up pressure on finding a legislative fix to ObamaCare, a day after the administration announced that just 27,000 people were able to buy insurance through the federal government in October. That announcement came after several weeks of reports that millions of people who had health insurance are being told their plans will be canceled because those plans don't measure up to ObamaCare's new health insurance standards.\nThat combination led Rep. John Duncan (R-Tenn.) to argue on the floor today that the key promises of ObamaCare have failed to materialize. \"One of leading supporters of the act was famously quoted as saying we would have to pass the law before we could find out what was in it,\" Duncan said, referring to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). \"Now we're finding out all the promises, about keeping your plan if you like it, keeping your doctor if you like him, premiums would go down as much as $2,500 a year, were all false, exaggerated or at least incorrect.\" Rep. Martha Roby (R-Ala.) called on members to support the Keep Your Health Plan Act, which the House will vote on and likely pass on Friday. That bill would allow insurance companies to continue to offer plans that would otherwise have to be canceled under the law. \"This bill also ensures that Americans choosing to maintain their healthcare plans will not face a tax penalty under ObamaCare,\" Roby said. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) noted a new legal challenge that could result in a finding that ObamaCare is unconstitutional. That challenge, now in the DC Court of Appeals, says the bill violates the Constitution because it was a revenue bill that did not originate in the House. Last week, 40 Republicans filed a brief in support of that challenge. \"If these judges will put their partisanship and egos aside, if these judges will apply the Constitution as it is written and intended, if these judges will simply honor their oath of office, then ObamaCare will be declared unconstitutional because it violates the Origination Clause,\" he said. Rep. Ted Poe (R-Texas) read a letter from a constituent who said his health plan has been canceled and that he can't afford a new plan. The constituent said he thought government was for the people, which prompted Poe to reply, \"Well, Billy, apparently the government is for the government, and not the people.\" After today's votes, House Republicans are expected to offer more stories from constituents who have lost their health coverage, in a series of one-minute speeches on the House floor.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/roby-shares-alabamians%E2%80%99-obamacare-horror-stories-floor-us-house", "Roby shares Alabamians\u2019 ObamaCare horror stories on floor of US House", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "After asking constituents to send her their ObamaCare horror stories last week, Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, this morning took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and detailed some of the stories to her colleagues. Roby began by recounting some of the promises that President Barack Obama has failed to deliver on. \u201cIf you like your doctor, you will be able to keep your doctor, period. If you like your healthcare plan, you will be able to keep your healthcare plan, period. No one will take it away no matter what,\u201d Roby said, quoting the president. \u201cMr. Speaker, we now know this wasn\u2019t true.\u201d She then offered proof from Alabama\u2019s second congressional district. \u201cAllison Strickland, a wife and homeschooling mother of four writes: We are a family of six with one income, and our premiums doubled from $420 to $940 a month. We are already under great financial strain, and this is not helping relieve any of the tension. At this point, we are unsure about what we are going to do. With four growing children we know insurance is vital, but at what cost to the daily needs of our family? We are very disappointed in the Obama administration.\u201d \u201cSean Cunningham of Montgomery writes: I am a married father of two beautiful little girls. My jaw dropped when I found out my family\u2019s premium was going from $400 a month to $722. I called Blue Cross first thing Monday morning, but I was told I needed to contact healthcare.gov for assistance. After six hours with them on the phone trying to apply for a subsidy, I did manage to find out that there was a cheaper premium. I could choose the \u2018blue-saver bronze at a rate of $545 per month, which was still an increase over the plan I liked. The other problem? My individual deductible would be $6,350. And my family deductible would be $12,700. I fail to see anything affordable about this.\u201d \u201cChris Dukovich of Montgomery was notified that my policy was not ACA compliant. Paying $390 for family coverage. Just found out comparable plan, silver, would be $704. My out-of-pocket went up, so did deductibles and co-pays. We make too much money and will not qualify for, nor do I want, a subsidy.\u201d \u201cLee Hayswhite of Montgomery: Our premium went up to $1,374 a month.\u201d \u201cAngela Zacchini of Greenville: Our family of four is paying $417 a month and it is going to $765 a month.\u201d \u201cJim Harroll of Prattville: My doctor retired and told me that he was not going to deal with the changes in the Affordable Care Act. So I could not keep my doctor. Both of my adult daughters got letters indicating their policies were canceled due to not meeting all the requirements of the new law. New policies being issued will be will 33 percent more expensive. One has a specialist doctor who is now going to charge patients a costly fee upfront each year and pay for services rendered. All of these effects are negative to my family.\u201d\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/roby-news/senate-gop-supports-robys-comp-time-bill", "Senate GOP supports Roby's comp-time bill", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Republicans are promoting a comp-time proposal by GOP Rep. Martha Roby of Alabama as a way to bring more flexibility to the workplace.\nRoby\u2019s bill would let hourly employees in the private sector choose time off instead of overtime pay.\nSens. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and Mike Lee of Utah recently introduced similar versions of the legislation, which passed the House in May. It would make comp time a voluntary option for employees who have worked overtime, just like in the public sector.\n\u201cWhile Congress can\u2019t legislate another hour in the day, we can help working Americans better balance the demands of work and family,\u201d said McConnell, the Senate\u2019s minority leader.\nLee said the idea is part of an overall GOP strategy to address issues important to the middle class.\n\u201cFor many families, especially with young children, their most precious commodity is time,\u201d Lee said.\nDespite the interest from the Republican senators, the bill appears unlikely to become law. House Democrats strongly opposed Roby\u2019s bill, and Democrats in charge of the Senate are raising the same objections.\n\u201cWorking families are desperate for more flexibility at work and more time with their families,\u201d said Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa. \u201cUnfortunately, I have concerns about this bill and whether it will deliver what it promises and in a way that protects workers from being pressured into making choices that will actually hurt their families.\u201d\nHarkin is chairman of the Senate committee that will review the proposals from McConnell and Lee.\nAlmost all House Democrats voted against Roby\u2019s bill. They said it would prompt employers to pressure workers to take comp time instead of overtime pay in order to cut payroll costs. They also said it doesn\u2019t guarantee that comp time could be taken when an employee needed it.\nHarkin said he prefers his proposed Healthy Families Act, which would provide a \u201cmore definite\u201d benefit, such as allowing workers to earn up to seven paid sick days a year.\nHe called the GOP comp-time bills \u201cthe wrong approach to the very critical problem of helping workers balance job responsibilities with family and caregiving.\u201d\nThe Fair Labor and Standards Act of 1938 states hourly employees in the private sector who work more than 40 hours a week must be paid for their extra time at one-and-a-half times their regular hourly wage. Comp time is an option only in the public sector.\nRoby\u2019s bill would make it legal for a private-sector employer and an employee to agree in writing that the employee will take an hour-and-a-half of comp time for every hour of overtime worked. For those in a union, the option would be available only as allowed by the collective-bargaining agreement. And it would allow employees to file a complaint under federal labor law if an employer coerces workers into choosing comp time.\nRoby said her bill is gaining traction in the Senate.\n\u201cTo have so many influential conservatives behind this bill sends a powerful message about our commitment to empowering Americans with more freedom and more flexibility in the workplace,\u201d she said.\nTo read this article on the publication's website, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://brooks.house.gov/media-center/news-releases/brooks-encourages-appellate-court-find-affordable-care-act-violates", "Brooks Encourages Appellate Court to Find that Affordable Care Act Violates the Constitution's Origination Clause", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "brooks.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Standing before the U.S. House this morning, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) discussed the case of Sissel v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which challenges the constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund the President's healthcare law.Congressman Brooks and thirty-nine other Members of Congress joined to file a friend of the court brief this week that urges the Court of Appeals to obey the Constitution and declare Affordable Care Act taxes unconstitutional because they violate the Origination Clause. Congressman Brooks stated, Constitution Article 1, Section 7 is the Origination Clause. It states, in part, that, All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House.' Brooks continued, The Senate took a House passed bill that raised no taxes, deleted its substantive provisions, and substituted a six page House bill with a 2,074 page Senate bill  commonly referred to as ObamaCare  that raised roughly $50 billion dollars a year in new taxes. None of the ObamaCare tax increases were in the original House bill. Hence, all of these tax increases originated in the Senate, not the House, thereby violating the Origination Clause requirement that tax increases originate in the House. Brooks concluded, No American court in history has ever upheld the Constitutionality of taxes under the circumstances presented by ObamaCare. Doing so now would undermine and nullify the letter and spirit of the Origination Clause in a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.Mr. Speaker, in a bold and agile display of legal sophistry, United States Supreme Court Justice John Roberts upheld the Affordable Care Act by declaring it a tax while failing to address whether the tax complied with the Origination Clause of our Constitution.  The case of Sissel v. the United States Department of Health and Human Services is pending before the D.C. Court of Appeals and headed to the Supreme Court. Sissel challenges the Constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund Government-Run Health Care.  Constitution Article 1, Section 7 is the Origination Clause. It states, in part, that, All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House.'  I have joined forty Members of Congress in a friend of the court brief' filed this week that urges the Court of Appeals to obey the Constitution and declare Affordable Care Act taxes unconstitutional because they violate the Origination Clause.  On October 8, 2009, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3590, the Service Member's Home Ownership Tax Act,' a six page bill! H.R. 3590 raised NO taxes or revenue of any kind. To the contrary, H.R. 3590 cut taxes for veterans buying homes.  The Senate took H.R. 3590, deleted its substantive provisions, and substituted a six page bill with a 2,074 page bill  commonly referred to as ObamaCare  that raised roughly $50 billion dollars a year in new taxes, making it one of the largest tax increases in the history of America  None of these ObamaCare tax increases were in the original House bill. Hence, all of these new tax increases originated in the Senate, not the House, thereby violating the Origination Clause requirement that tax increases originate in the House.  The Origination Clause was subject to significant debate during America's 1787 Constitutional Convention. Massachusetts Convention Delegate and America's fifth Vice-President, Elbridge Gerry, stated that the Origination Clause was the cornerstone of the accommodation' of the Great Compromise of 1787 that persuaded a majority of the states to ratify the Constitution. Stated differently, but for the Origination Clause, there would have been no Constitution and no United States as we know it. The Origination Clause was that important!  Virginia Delegate and co-author of our Bill of Rights, George Mason, explained opposition to Senate tax originations when he declared:  The Senate did not represent the people, but the States in their political character. It was improper therefore that it should tax the people . . . Again, the Senate is not like the House of Representatives chosen frequently and obliged to return frequently among the people. They are chosen by the States for 6 years, will probably settle themselves at the seat of Government, will pursue schemes for their aggrandizement  will be able by [wearing] out the House of Representatives, and taking advantage of their impatience at the close of a long Session, to extort measures for that purpose.'  Mr. Speaker, America's founding fathers did not trust the Senate to originate and raise taxes because Senators sat unchallenged for six years, the greater part of a decade, and were too insulated and unaccountable for the taxes they force on American citizens.  Mr. Speaker, no American court in history has ever upheld the Constitutionality of taxes under the circumstances presented by ObamaCare. Doing so now would undermine and nullify the letter and spirit of the Origination Clause in a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.  Mr. Speaker, every federal judge and justice took an oath to defend, protect, and uphold our Constitution.  If these judges will put their partisanship and egos aside . . .  If these judges will apply the Constitution as it is written and intended . . .  If these judges will simply honor their oath of office . . .  Then ObamaCare will be declared unconstitutional because it violates the Origination Clause and America's dangerous and failing experiment with Socialized Medicine will have ended.  ObamaCare will be dead, and quality healthcare for Americans will survive.  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-releases-alert-constituents-regarding-reports", "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell Releases Alert to Constituents Regarding Reports of Fraud in USDA Farmer Discrimination Cases", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) released the following warning to constituents against individuals soliciting funds in exchange for the re-opening of USDA farmer discrimination cases: \n\n\tGrowing reports of fraud in the 7th Congressional District involving USDA farmer discrimination cases have been brought to my attention over the past several days. According to multiple sources, certain individuals are illegally soliciting funds from people with the promise of reopening several USDA farmer discrimination cases. Local law enforcement officials have reported that some of these individuals are fraudulently claiming to be collecting funds on behalf of my office in exchange for the re-opening of these cases. It is critical that the public is warned against these scams.\n\n\tThe fact is that the Black, Native American, Hispanic and Women Farmer Lawsuits have been adjudicated.No more claims in these lawsuits can be filed and there are currently no plans to provide additional settlement.The claims period for the Second Settlement Phase of the Black Farmer Lawsuit (Pigford II) ended on May 11, 2012. The Hispanic (Garcia v. Vilsack) and Women (Love v Vilsack)Farmer claims period ended on May 1, 2013. The Native American Farmer claims period (Keepseagle v. Vilsack) closed on December 27, 2011. In no instance will a member of my staff or a representative from my office approach an individual to request funds in exchange for assistance with these settlements.My constituents are advised to refrain from providing any funds to individuals or groups offering such assistance. If solicited, constituents should notify local law enforcement and report such instances to my Birmingham district office at 205-254-1960 so that perpetrators can be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.\n\n\tMy office will continue to work with law enforcement to ensure that minority farmers are protected from these fraudulent scams.\n\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140923133336/http://brooks.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1083", "Brooks Encourages Appellate Court to Find that Affordable Care Act Violates the Constitution's Origination Clause", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mo Brooks", "B001274", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Standing before the U.S. House this morning, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) discussed the case of Sissel v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which challenges the constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund the President\u2019s healthcare law.Congressman Brooks and thirty-nine other Members of Congress joined to file a \u201cfriend of the court brief\u201d this week that urges the Court of Appeals to obey the Constitution and declare Affordable Care Act taxes unconstitutional because they violate the Origination Clause.\n\n\tCongressman Brooks stated, \u201cConstitution Article 1, Section 7 is the Origination Clause.\u00a0 It states, in part, that, \u2018All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House.\u2019\u201d\n\n\tBrooks continued, \u201cThe Senate took a House passed bill that raised no taxes, deleted its substantive provisions, and substituted a six page House bill with a 2,074 page Senate bill \u2013 commonly referred to as ObamaCare \u2013 that raised roughly $50 billion dollars a year in new taxes.\u00a0 None of the ObamaCare tax increases were in the original House bill.\u00a0 Hence, all of these tax increases originated in the Senate, not the House, thereby violating the Origination Clause requirement that tax increases originate in the House.\u201d\n\n\tBrooks concluded, \u201cNo American court in history has ever upheld the Constitutionality of taxes under the circumstances presented by ObamaCare.\u00a0 Doing so now would undermine and nullify the letter and spirit of the Origination Clause in a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.\u201d\n\n\t\n\n\tVideo of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks is available HERE.\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\tText of Congressman Brooks\u2019 remarks:\n\n\t\u00a0\n\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, in a bold and agile display of legal sophistry, United States Supreme Court Justice John Roberts upheld the Affordable Care Act by declaring it a tax while failing to address whether the tax complied with the Origination Clause of our Constitution.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cThe case of Sissel v. the United States Department of Health and Human Services is pending before the D.C. Court of Appeals and headed to the Supreme Court.\u00a0 Sissel challenges the Constitutionality of roughly 20 tax increases that fund Government-Run Health Care.\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cConstitution Article 1, Section 7 is the Origination Clause.\u00a0 It states, in part, that, \u2018All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House.\u2019\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cI have joined forty Members of Congress in a \u2018friend of the court brief\u2019 filed this week that urges the Court of Appeals to obey the Constitution and declare Affordable Care Act taxes unconstitutional because they violate the Origination Clause.\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cOn October 8, 2009, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3590, the \u2018Service Member\u2019s Home Ownership Tax Act,\u2019 a six page bill!\u00a0 H.R. 3590 raised NO taxes or revenue of any kind.\u00a0 To the contrary, H.R. 3590 cut taxes for veterans buying homes.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cThe Senate took H.R. 3590, deleted its substantive provisions, and substituted a six page bill with a 2,074 page bill \u2013 commonly referred to as ObamaCare \u2013 that raised roughly $50 billion dollars a year in new taxes, making it one of the largest tax increases in the history of America\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cNone of these ObamaCare tax increases were in the original House bill.\u00a0 Hence, all of these new tax increases originated in the Senate, not the House, thereby violating the Origination Clause requirement that tax increases originate in the House.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cThe Origination Clause was subject to significant debate during America\u2019s 1787 Constitutional Convention. Massachusetts Convention Delegate and America\u2019s fifth Vice-President, Elbridge Gerry, stated that the Origination Clause was \u2018the cornerstone of the accommodation\u2019 of the Great Compromise of 1787 that persuaded a majority of the states to ratify the Constitution.\u00a0 Stated differently, but for the Origination Clause, there would have been no Constitution and no United States as we know it.\u00a0 The Origination Clause was that important!\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cVirginia Delegate and co-author of our Bill of Rights, George Mason, explained opposition to Senate tax originations when he declared:\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u2018The Senate did not represent the people, but the States in their political character.\u00a0 It was improper therefore that it should tax the people . . .\u00a0 Again, the Senate is not like the House of Representatives chosen frequently and obliged to return frequently among the people.\u00a0 They are chosen by the States for 6 years, will probably settle themselves at the seat of Government, will pursue schemes for their aggrandizement \u2013 will be able by [wearing] out the House of Representatives, and taking advantage of their impatience at the close of a long Session, to extort measures for that purpose.\u2019\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, America\u2019s founding fathers did not trust the Senate to originate and raise taxes because Senators sat unchallenged for six years, the greater part of a decade, and were too insulated and unaccountable for the taxes they force on American citizens.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, no American court in history has ever upheld the Constitutionality of taxes under the circumstances presented by ObamaCare.\u00a0 Doing so now would undermine and nullify the letter and spirit of the Origination Clause in a Constitution that has served America so well for so long.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cMr. Speaker, every federal judge and justice took an oath to defend, protect, and uphold our Constitution.\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cIf these judges will put their partisanship and egos aside . . .\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cIf these judges will apply the Constitution as it is written and intended . . .\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cIf these judges will simply honor their oath of office . . .\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cThen ObamaCare will be declared unconstitutional because it violates the Origination Clause and America\u2019s dangerous and failing experiment with Socialized Medicine will have ended.\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t\u201cObamaCare will be dead, and quality healthcare for Americans will survive.\u201d\n\t\n\t\t\u00a0\n\t\n\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mike-rogers.house.gov/press-release/obamacare-you-can%E2%80%99t-keep-your-health-plan", "Obamacare: You Can\u2019t Keep Your Health Plan", "2013-11-13", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Mike Rogers", "R000575", "mike-rogers.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(WASHINGTON, D.C.)\u2014America is over six weeks in to the Obamacare rollout, and things are still a mess.\u00a0\nPeople are still having problems signing up, but even more painful are the letters folks are receiving about the changes to their current health care plans.\nEvery day we are hearing more and more about people\u2019s current health care plans being dropped completely.\u00a0\nBecause of this, families and individuals are now being forced into different and often times much more expensive health care plans.\nMany folks across East Alabama may have to make the tough decision to forego their health insurance because of unforeseen increases in the cost of their health care premiums and deductibles.\u00a0 Yet under Obamacare, folks are required to purchase health insurance by March of 2014 to avoid paying a penalty. They just cannot afford any of it.\nPresident Obama promised from the beginning that \u2018if you like your health care plan, you'll be able to keep your health care plan, period,\u2019 but that has turned out not to be the case.\nObamacare has many flaws, but forcing people off their current plans when they were promised they could keep what they had has really hit home.\nThat is why I recently cosponsored H.R. 3350, the Keep Your Health Plan Act.\nThis legislation, introduced by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI), would allow health care plans on the individual market to remain available so people could have the option to keep their current health care plans.\nThis legislation would help ease some of the current pain and confusion across East Alabama for those hard-working families being forced into different health care plans.\nAlthough this bill would help in the short term, there is no substitute for getting rid of Obamacare altogether. I will continue to work toward that goal.\nAs always, please feel free to contact me on this or any issue at mike-rogers.house.gov, like me on Facebook at Congressman Mike D. Rogers, follow me on Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram at RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page at MikeRogersAL03.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222045052/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=5386aa27-f408-53ee-517b-e3613f0c6512", "Sessions Writes EPA Regarding Regulatory Overreach Impacting Alabama, U.S. Jobs", "2013-11-13", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions, Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Clean Air & Nuclear Safety, sent a letter today to the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) expressing concerns about new EPA air regulations impacting brick manufacturing jobs in the United States. After sending the letter, Sen. Sessions stated: \n\n\u00a0\nA full text of the letter follows. To view it as a PDF, please click here:\n\u00a0\nNovember 13, 2013\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe Honorable Gina McCarthy\nAdministrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency\n1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\nWashington DC 20460\n\u00a0\nDear Administrator McCarthy:\n\u00a0\nWe are writing to express our views regarding the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) upcoming Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) rule for brick and structural clay processes, which is scheduled for proposal by February 6, 2014, and finalization by December 18, 2014.[1] This \u201cBrick MACT,\u201d if crafted imprudently, could jeopardize the economic viability of brick manufacturers and distributors in our states and imperil hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide. We urge you to exercise the discretion provided by Congress in the Clean Air Act (CAA) to minimize regulatory burdens on the brick industry that do not provide commensurate environmental benefit. We urge EPA to fully consider how such measures would affect public health and the economic vitality of brick manufacturers, distributors, and communities that rely on them for their livelihood. \n\u00a0\nThe brick industry is in a unique situation. In 2003, EPA issued a Brick MACT (68 Fed. Reg. 26,689) that the brick industry implemented at a total compliance cost of approximately $100 million. Controls installed to comply with the 2003 MACT rule largely remain in operation. This 2003 MACT, however, was subsequently vacated by a federal court in 2007 due to no fault of the brick industry. As you can appreciate, it is highly problematic when an industry is subject to two consecutive rounds of technology-based MACT rules, particularly after compliance was attained with the first technology-based MACT. Moreover, we are concerned that the lower emission levels attained from controls installed to comply with the 2003 vacated rule may be used as the baseline for the second MACT and may result in an even more stringent rule than would have been imposed absent the first MACT. This \u201cMACT on MACT\u201d situation could require the costly removal and replacement of still-viable air pollution control devices without producing actual environmental or human health benefits. \n\u00a0\nOn December 7, 2012, EPA published a proposed schedule for a new Brick MACT pursuant to efforts to negotiate a consent decree with the complainant in the case vacating the 2003 Brick MACT. We appreciate that EPA has amended this proposed consent decree to add an additional six months to the schedule for the proposed rule. This newly proposed schedule envisions a final rule issuance late December of 2014. We urge EPA to continue to review the schedule and identify if and when additional changes to the final schedule should be made.\u00a0 \n\u00a0\nWe respectfully request that EPA use this time to take the steps necessary to promulgate a rule that protects public health and the environment, but does not impose unwarranted burdens on the brick industry. We believe such an approach would include the following: \n\u00a0\n1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Consideration of Work Practice Standards and Accurate Regulatory Burden Estimates.\u00a0 We urge EPA to use its authority in the CAA to consider work practice standards, wherever reasonable, including for the relatively small amount of metal HAP emissions, including mercury. This review should include an assessment of whether work practice standards are warranted for all pollutants not covered by a health-based standard.\u00a0EPA is currently considering very expensive controls for the minimal amounts of mercury that the brick industry emits. The brick industry is on the list for MACT development because of acid gasses, not metal emissions, and to absorb crippling control costs to receive minor reductions in the amount of mercury and metals the industry emits may not be justified or even required to meet the requirements of the Clean Air Act. In addition, since EPA\u2019s estimated annual compliance costs are significant (running well over $150,000,000 per year) and the rule will impact a substantial number of small businesses, thoughtful consideration of the additional reviews required to comply with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) are critical. EPA must develop a thorough Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis that assesses the impacts on small businesses and examines less burdensome alternatives. EPA must also provide accurate estimates of the costs of the rule and a reasonable determination of the technical feasibility of control devices to meet the standard as an essential part of an initial RFA. We believe work practice standards could both protect the environment and eliminate unwarranted burdens.\n\u00a0\n2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Health-based standard.\u00a0 CAA Section 112(d)(4) allows for consideration of health-based thresholds when establishing MACT standards for a category. While this action is discretionary under the CAA, the unique MACT on MACT situation discussed above, as well as the limited quantity of emissions generated by brick manufactures justify full consideration of the health-based approach for standards set pursuant to this rule. If EPA chooses not to pursue a health-based approach to this regulation, we ask that EPA explain fully why this approach is not reasonable for this industry.\u00a0 \n\u00a0\n3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Establish reasonable subcategories. The CAA provides ample authority for EPA to use its discretion to establish subcategories when evaluating MACT for an industry. We urge EPA to use this discretion to minimize unnecessary \u201cMACT on MACT\u201d impacts for this industry, including the removal of viable air pollution control devices installed in good faith to comply with the 2003 MACT. At a minimum, EPA should maintain the same subcategories as in the 2003 rule. However, EPA should fully explore all potential subcategorization options.\n\u00a0\nThank you for considering the incorporation of these environmentally-responsible and cost-conscious approaches as EPA develops the proposed Brick MACT rule. A reasonable standard will ensure that human health and the environment are protected and that this essential industry can continue to thrive, generate jobs in our states, and help our struggling economy rebound.\u00a0 \n\u00a0\nSincerely,\n\u00a0\nU.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL),\nU.S. Senator David Vitter (R-LA),\nU.S. Senator John Thune (R-ND),\nU.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK),\nU.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI),\nU.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS),\nU.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN),\nU.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH),\nU.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR),\nU.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID),\nU.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss (R-GA),\nU.S. Senator Richard Burr (R-NC),\nU.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX),\nU.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC),\nU.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA),\nU.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO),\nU.S. Senator Mike Johanns (R-NE),\nU.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID)\u201d\n\u00a0\nBACKGROUND:\nA proposed Brick MACT rule is scheduled for February 2014, with a final rule by December 2014. As explained in the letter, this rule, if crafted imprudently, could jeopardize the economic viability of many brick manufacturers and distributors in the US. For an example of impacts of this rulemaking on small businesses, please see this Selma Times Journal article. Senator Sessions also spoke about Brick MACT at a recent EPW hearing (video here). \n    \n\n[1] This letter is being sent in coordination with a bipartisan group comprised of 53 members of the U.S. House of Representatives who wrote you with these same concerns in a letter dated November 6, 2013.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050026/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=52fc407b-b26c-ead1-38ca-7b0bdf196f03", "Sessions Issues Statement On Passing Of State Director Chuck Spurlock", "2013-11-13", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) released the following statement today after the passing of his State Director and longtime friend, Chuck Spurlock: \n\u00a0\n\u201cI am heartbroken over the passing of my friend and State Director, Chuck Spurlock. Chuck loved life, had high ethical and moral standards, and always reflected the best qualities of public service.\u00a0He was a loyal patriot and a truly loyal friend and confidant.\u00a0We spent countless hours driving the state, often into the night, talking together.\u00a0He was the first person named to my Senate staff.\n\u00a0\nChuck was one of the most knowledgeable people, perhaps the most knowledgeable person concerning politics and government in Alabama over the past 25 years.\u00a0Members of our delegation in Congress, friends, office holders, and candidates throughout Alabama regularly sought his opinion and insight.\u00a0His judgment was highly favored.\n\u00a0\nHe loved the practical aspects of politics while being an historian and intellectual. The state staff he supervised loved him and he loved them and was constantly supportive of their work. \u00a0\n\u00a0\nChuck loved his family dearly and they him.\u00a0The constant support, encouragement, and affection Phyllis and the children showed him during this difficult time was inspiring to us all. I join Chuck\u2019s friends across every corner of Alabama mourning the passing of a great man.\u201d\n\u00a0\nBACKGROUND:\nCharles H. \u201cChuck\u201d Spurlock was born in Nashville, Tennessee. He earned his B.A. in History and Religion at Duke University and his M.A. in European History from Vanderbilt University. Chuck was a renowned expert in politics and history and delivered lectures for many organizations throughout the state.\n\u00a0\nMr. Spurlock served as the campaign manager to Sen. Sessions\u2019 bid for Alabama Attorney General and later as his Press Secretary and Legislative Liaison in the Attorney General\u2019s office. He was the Finance Director for Sessions\u2019 first U.S. Senate race and was the first member named to Sen. Sessions\u2019 staff.\u00a0 Mr. Spurlock served for the past 17 years as Sessions\u2019 state director.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140222050834/http://www.sessions.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=53468106-bec1-ef7f-6328-95aec6f65971", "Sessions Comments On Boehner Immigration Announcement, Sounds Note of Caution", "2013-11-13", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Jeff Sessions", "S001141", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cToday\u2019s announcement is an important and positive development\u2026 But a word of caution: the groups pushing for Gang of Eight-style legislation are well-financed and very powerful.\u201d\n\n\u00a0\nWASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement today after Speaker Boehner announced he would not agree to a Conference Committee with the Senate\u2019s immigration bill. Sessions praised the House while also sounding a note of caution that the Gang of Eight\u2019s powerful backers will keep pushing aggressively for their desired legislative outcome:\n\u00a0\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement is an important and positive development for our nation, our people, and the Republican party. House Republicans are resisting an influence campaign and standing for the interests of the American people.\n\u00a0\nBut a word of caution: the groups pushing for Gang of Eight-style legislation are well-financed and very powerful. The Gang of Eight bill\u2019s fatal flaw was always that it answered to the special interests at the expense of the national interest. Arguably the single most destructive feature of the Senate\u2019s immigration bill was the massive permanent surge in low-skill immigration that would reduce wages and increase unemployment. The White House and Senate Democrats shamelessly coordinated with a small cadre of CEOs to pressure House Republicans to yield.\n\u00a0\nIt\u2019s time for Republicans to tell these special interests to get lost and to be the one party that will defend the interests of the millions of Americans looking for better jobs and better wages. This is the moment for a vision to emerge centered on growth and prosperity for working Americans\u2014not just the powerful and well-connected.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/constituent-shares-family%E2%80%99s-obamacare-impact-story-fox-news", "Constituent Shares Family\u2019s ObamaCare Impact Story on Fox News", "2013-11-12", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A Dothan, Alabama resident appeared on a national cable news show to share her family\u2019s story about how implementation of the Affordable Care Act is making life difficult and more expensive. Allyson Strickland, a homeschooling mother of four whose husband works in the construction industry, appeared Friday on Fox News\u2019 \u201cOn the Record with Greta van Sustren\u201d program sharing that her family\u2019s premiums had more than doubled from $440 to $920 because of plan changes forced by the healthcare law. Strickland was among the first to respond to a public request by U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) for stories illustrating personal difficulties related to health care law changes. Rep. Roby said responses continue to pour in from Alabamians experiencing insurance plan cancellations and rate hikes, some of which she plans to highlight this week as legislative remedies to the issue gain traction. \u201cI appreciate Allyson and all the others who have contacted my office for sharing personal stories about how ObamaCare is affecting their families,\u201d Rep. Roby said. \u201cSpecific examples of how this law is harming people in a real way allow me to be a more powerful voice for positive change in Congress. I encourage anyone who hasn\u2019t shared their story to go online and submit it. \u201cI believe a majority of Republicans and Democrats support commonsense changes to the law, but we are fighting an uphill battle because this is President Obama\u2019s signature law. The more real-world stories like Allyson\u2019s we can share, the better we can demonstrate on a national level the compelling need to offer Americans relief from this law.\u201d Despite President Obama\u2019s well-publicized promise of \u201cif you like your health plan, you will be able to keep your health plan,\u201d thousands in Alabama and millions across the country are facing health insurance cancellations or skyrocketing costs. Rep. Roby is co-sponsoring the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act,\u201d which would ensure individual policy holders who like their healthcare plans are truly allowed to keep them. Similar proposals are surfacing in the Senate, and former President Bill Clinton said in a recent interview that \u201ceven if it takes a change to the law, the president should honor the commitment the federal government made to those people and let them keep what they got.\u201d Rep. Roby on Thursday debuted a special online form to make it easy for constituents to share their personal stories. Additionally, individuals are invited to share their ObamaCare stories with Rep. Roby on Facebook or Twitter, by email, or by calling Rep. Roby\u2019s Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-2901.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://roby.house.gov/press-release/roby-op-ed-hold-president-his-vow", "Roby Op-Ed: Hold the president to his vow", "2013-11-12", "2013", "2013-11", "Republican", "House", "AL", "Martha Roby", "R000591", "roby.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Remember when President Obama said over and over again that if you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health care plan? Well, it turns out that wasn\u2019t true, as thousands of Alabamians and millions across the country are facing health insurance cancellations or skyrocketing costs. To make matters worse, the disastrous roll out of the Obamacare website has made it nearly impossible for those affected to search for alternatives. I don\u2019t know why the president repeatedly misled the country about the true implications of his healthcare law. This is the kind of Washington political doublespeak people are so fed up with \u2014 and this time it is hurting people in a very real way. We have to do more than complain about it. My responsibility as a member of Congress is to make it right by acting to protect Americans from these rate hikes and plan cancellations. That\u2019s why I\u2019m co-sponsoring the \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act,\u201d which will allow health care plans currently being offered to continue next year, just like the president promised. The bill also ensures that Americans choosing to maintain their health plans will not face a tax penalty under Obamacare. The \u201cKeep Your Health Plan Act\u201d won\u2019t fix every problem with Obamacare, but it will offer real choices and peace of mind to Americans affected by these changes. Time is of the essence, and I\u2019m optimistic Congress will take this bill up as soon as this week. There is talk of similar legislation in the Senate. House and Senate members from both parties recognize the basic unfairness that has occurred here, and good faith efforts to remedy the situation are underway. However, even though Republicans and Democrats support fixing this problem, we are fighting an uphill battle because this is President Obama\u2019s signature law. That\u2019s why I need your help. I\u2019m asking Alabamians who have been impacted by Obamacare to share their stories. If your rates increased, if the plan you like got cancelled or altered, if you won\u2019t be able to see your doctor, tell me about it. Tell me your story so I can be your voice in Congress and push for change. The more we highlight specific examples that demonstrate the real-life consequences of Obamacare, the more pressure we can put on the White House to accept common-sense, bipartisan reforms. Over the last few weeks, a great many Alabamians have called, emailed or sent letters about the negative impact Obamacare is having on their families. Now it\u2019s your turn, and I\u2019m listening. To submit your story, click here or find me on Facebook and Twitter.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 590, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "AL", "p2": "2013"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 498, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013&party=Republican", "selected": false}, {"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 92, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 590, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=AL&year=2013", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "AL", "label": "AL", "count": 590, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2013", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "2013", "label": "2013", "count": 590, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2013-11-12,http~3A~2F~2Froby~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fpress-release~2Froby-op-ed-hold-president-his-vow", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=AL&year=2013&_next=2013-11-12%2Chttp~3A~2F~2Froby~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fpress-release~2Froby-op-ed-hold-president-his-vow&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 142.80553301796317, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}