{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"WA\" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://dennyheck.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/thurston-county-s-newly-elected-officials-sworn-in-during-ceremony", "Thurston Countys newly elected officials sworn in during ceremony", "2014-12-30", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newly elected Thurston County Clerk Linda Enlow said she had waited for more than 20 years for Tuesday\u2019s swearing-in ceremony at the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts at South Puget Sound Community College.\n\u201cIt\u2019s very emotional,\u201d said Enlow, who served as the county\u2019s chief deputy clerk for 21 years, under retiring Clerk Betty Gould. \u201cI\u2019m very excited.\u201d\nShe was among 11 elected officials sworn into office Tuesday afternoon by county Auditor Mary Hall.\nU.S. Rep. Denny Heck delivered a keynote speech during the event, saying that public service is about neighbors, community and relationships.\nHe passed along some advice that he received during his freshman term in the House of Representatives from retiring Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., the longest serving member of Congress in U.S. History.\n\u201cHe said this: \u201cYou have a very important job, and you\u2019re not a very important person,\u201d Heck recalled. \u201cFor those of you who are elected, I want you to remember those words.\u201d\nMeantime, Hall compared the swearing-in ceremony to a wedding, and added that the real work was still ahead. Like marriage, Hall said elected offices will take a lot of hard work, negotiation and collaboration.\nOther officials sworn in during the ceremony were County Commissioner Bud Blake; Coroner Gary Warnock; Prosecuting Attorney Jon Tunheim; Sheriff John Snaza; Treasurer Shawn Myers; District Court Judges Kalo Wilcox, Sam Meyer and Brett Buckley; and Public Utility District Commissioners Russ Olsen and Chris Stearns.\nHall was sworn in on Dec. 22 so that she could do an early swearing in ceremony for Assessor Steven Drew who couldn\u2019t participate in Tuesday\u2019s event due to a scheduling conflict.\nJudge Meyer took his oath alongside wife, Jennifer, and their children Charlotte, 4, and Henry, 10.\n\u201cIt really was a family affair,\u201d Jennifer Meyer said after the ceremony. \u201cWe appreciate marking the day, and being able to participate in it.\u201d\n\n\n\tSTEVE\u00a0BLOOM\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Staff\u00a0photographer", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=493939ed-e1ac-461b-a856-6da68f6fdb4a", "Senator Murrays Statement on HHS Announcement on Blood Donation Policy for Gay Men", "2014-12-23", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), incoming Ranking Member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Food and Drug Administration announced a change to the blood donation policy regarding men who have sex with men: \r\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement is a welcome step in the right direction, however, I am disappointed that low-risk gay men are still being discriminated against with this outdated policy. Healthy Americans who don\u2019t engage in risky behavior, regardless of their sexual orientation, should have the opportunity to donate blood and help in the effort to save lives. I look forward to working with Secretary Burwell to build on the step taken today by removing this discriminatory ban while keeping our blood supply safe.\u201d\u00a0 \r\nSenator Murray has previously called for a reexamination of the outdated policy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-hails-illabot-creek-preservation-victory-pnw-environment-economy", "Larsen Hails Illabot Creek Preservation as Victory for PNW Environment, Economy", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today cheered President Obama\u2019s signature to designate Illabot Creek in Skagit County as a Wild and Scenic River. Illabot Creek is a critical habitat for threatened wild Chinook salmon, steelhead, bull trout and other wildlife, as well as a popular recreational destination for fishers and hunters.\n\u201cThe Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful parts of the country in large part because of waterways like Illabot Creek and the diverse wildlife that call it home. That is why I have worked so hard to protect this vital habitat where both residents and visitors can enjoy fishing, hunting, hiking and other outdoor activities. It took three separate tries over six years, but with perseverance and many dedicated local partners, Illabot Creek will remain wild and scenic for generations to come.\n\u201cWhen we preserve open spaces like Illabot Creek, we protect salmon spawning waters that support healthy fish populations and a vibrant fishing industry that creates thousands of jobs. We protect the clean and free-flowing waters that feed the Skagit River. And we protect the outdoor recreation opportunities for today and in the future that are so integral to our way of life in Northwest Washington.\n\u201cHealthy waters, lands and wildlife are essential to a high quality of life and a strong economy, which is why I will continue working hard to protect Washington state\u2019s environment. Victories may not always come quickly, but persistence won the day for our environment,\u201d Larsen said.\nLarsen first introduced the bill in 2009 with Senator Patty Murray. It passed the House in 2012, but did not clear the Senate. Larsen then worked with Rep. Susan DelBene, Sen. Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell to reintroduce the bill in 2013.\nIllabot Creek flows for 14.3 miles through Skagit County, starting at Snow King Mountain 7,500 feet up in the Cascades and tumbling down to join the Skagit River at 500 feet above sea level. The creek is home to one of the largest bull trout populations in Puget Sound, as well as Chinook, Chum, Coho, Pink, Sockeye, Steelhead trout and Cutthroat trout. Bald eagles and many other species of birds also live in the habitat surrounding the creek.\nThe Illabot Creek provision was included in the National Defense Authorization Act, which the President signed today.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-step-program-highly-successful-tool-small-businesses", "Larsen: STEP Program a Highly Successful Tool for Small Businesses", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014A program to help small businesses sell their goods abroad that Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, has long championed received $17.4 million for FY2015, more than double its previous funding. The State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Program is designed to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting, and to increase the value of exports for those small businesses that are currently exporting.\nSTEP was established as a pilot program in 2010. Larsen introduced a bill in 2013 to make the program permanent, and he successfully requested continuing funding for 2014 and 2015.\n\u201cWhen we help our businesses sell their goods overseas, we create jobs here at home. We know this well in Washington state, where 40 percent of our jobs are tied to trade.\n\u201cThe STEP program has proven a highly successful tool for small businesses. Every dollar we spend in our state through the STEP program brings back $75 to our economy. That kind of success is a solid investment that is producing clear results for our businesses and our communities. I am pleased STEP will continue helping us send the things we make, instead of our jobs, overseas,\u201d Larsen said.\nFunding for STEP was included in the FY2015 appropriations bill that President Obama signed on December 16. Larsen voted against the bill because of several harmful policy provisions.\n\u201cA bill to fund the government should be just that \u2013 a bill to fund the government. Instead, the spending bill further guts our campaign finance laws by giving the wealthy a loudspeaker in our elections. It cuts into the number one source of federal grant money to help low- and middle-income students afford a college education to help them get the skills they need to succeed in today\u2019s job market. And it devastates the pensions of a million hardworking Americans, a hypocritical action in a country that is supposed to stand up for the middle class.\n\u201cWhile I strongly disagree with some of the bad decisions made in this bill, within its 1,600 pages is funding for programs like STEP that will continue to create jobs by helping our small businesses grow,\u201d Larsen said.\nMore information about the STEP Program is available here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-thanks-sailors-uss-rodney-m-davis", "Larsen Thanks Sailors of the USS Rodney M. Davis", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today thanked the sailors of the USS Rodney M. Davis for their service and applauded the ship\u2019s accomplishments as it returns from its final deployment.\nDuring its last six months at sea, the ship worked with partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to conduct security operations. The ship also participated in Rim of the Pacific 2014, the world\u2019s largest maritime exercises. It is home ported in Everett and is scheduled to be decommissioned in March 2015.\n\u201cThe sailors of the USS Rodney M. Davis have dedicated themselves over the last nearly three decades to serving our country on deployments around the world. I applaud the ship and the many officers and enlisted sailors who have represented our country so admirably.\n\u201cNaval Station Everett plays a crucial role in keeping our country safe and protecting our interests worldwide. The USS Rodney M. Davis has carried out this role with distinction,\u201d Larsen said.\nThe USS Rodney M. Davis is the final of three frigates at Naval Station Everett to be decommissioned. These ships are scheduled to be replaced with three destroyers over the next two years. Larsen has long pushed to ensure the Navy maintains a strong presence in Everett, and he worked to bring the three destroyers to the base.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=aedd4cc3-cdbd-444e-a3fa-87175b893bf0", "Obama Signs Bills to Extend State Sales Tax Deduction, Preserve Hanford B Reactor", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.14\n    \t\t\t Obama Signs Bills to Extend State Sales Tax Deduction, Preserve Hanford B Reactor  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Cantwell-backed tax provision allows Washingtonians to deduct state sales tax on April\u2019s tax filings\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, President Barack Obama signed into law a tax bill that enables Washingtonians to claim the state and local sales tax deduction on their 2014 federal income taxes. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) has led bipartisan efforts to ensure the sales tax deduction remains in effect and to provide tax fairness for taxpayers in Washington state and other states that don\u2019t have an income tax.\r\nThe President also signed into the law the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, which included a Cantwell-sponsored provision that will preserve Hanford\u2019s B Reactor as part of a Manhattan Project National Historical Park. The defense bill also includes Cantwell-backed measures to: ensure women small business owners have equal access to federal contracting; transfer a surplus 1,600 acres at the Hanford site to the Tri-City Development Council for economic development; expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area by 22,000 acres, and designate the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers as Wild and Scenic.\r\nThe tax bill -- the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014 -- extends the sales tax deduction for one year. Washington is among eight states that don\u2019t have an income tax and, therefore, taxpayers can\u2019t claim an income tax deduction on their federal returns. Congress let the sales tax deduction expire at the end of 2013, which left its future in doubt.\r\n\u201cThis one-year extension means tax relief in 2014 for about 900,000 Washington filers who claim the state and local sales tax deduction,\u201d Cantwell said. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation provides tax fairness for Washingtonians and helps support investment in local economies. This is an important step, but we must work to end the long-term inequity for Washington taxpayers by making the state sales tax deduction a permanent part of the tax code.\u201d\r\nCantwell, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, helped to craft the Senate package of tax extenders, which passed the Committee in April. She fought for the sales tax deduction\u2019s inclusion in the bill.\r\nAbout 900,000 Washington state taxpayers took advantage of the state sales tax deduction in 2012, reducing their taxable income by $1.9 billion, according to IRS data. Washington state taxpayers saved an average of $602 with the state sales tax deduction in 2012, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts report.\r\nThe legislation includes several other Cantwell-backed tax provisions that are critical to Washington state such as tax credits for hiring veterans, building low-income housing and producing clean energy. You can read more about these provisions here.\r\nCantwell has been a leader in the Senate on the bipartisan legislation to create the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. Elevating the B Reactor\u2019s status to a National Historical Park will ensure it will not be torn down and increase public access to the historic reactor, helping to attract more visitors to the Tri-Cities.\r\n\u201cToday marks an important milestone for preserving the history of the Tri-Cities,\u201d Cantwell said. \u201cThe Manhattan Project National Historical Park will boost tourism and enable millions of Americans to learn about the scientific achievements at Hanford. \u00a0I congratulate the many Tri-Cities community leaders for their years of work in making this historical park from an idea into a reality.\u201d\r\nThe National Historical Park designation gives Hanford sites the same status as Independence Hall, Valley Forge and Abraham Lincoln\u2019s birthplace. It also will help promote the site for tourism, which supports local businesses. More than 7 million people visited Washington\u2019s national parks in 2013, which pumped $430 million into surrounding communities and supported 5,269 jobs, according to a recent National Park Service report.\r\nAlong with establishing the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, the NDAA legislation also approves the transfer of 1,641 acres of land from the Hanford site to the Tri-Cities Development Council for use as an industrial park. Cantwell has worked over the last few years to urge the Department of Energy to transfer the surplus land -- which is adjacent to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the Port of Benton Manufacturing Mall, and the Tri-Cities Research District -- to use for economic development.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d07c6a02-5075-4887-98c7-35311faf18fa", "11 Senators Urge Congress to Preserve Strong Net Neutrality Protections", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.14\n    \t\t\t  11 Senators Urge Congress to Preserve Strong Net Neutrality Protections \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t In letter to McConnell and Thune, Senators say two-tiered Internet would be \u2018unacceptable\u2019\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In a letter today, 11 Senators led by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) urged leaders of the 114th Congress to preserve net neutrality principles when considering reforms to the nation\u2019s communications law.\r\n\u201cTo the extent that any Communications Act reforms are considered in the next Congress, those reforms must be fully consistent with and protective of net neutrality principles,\u201d the Senators wrote in the letter to incoming Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senator John Thune, (R-SD), who will take over as chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. \u201cThe FCC can and should take strong action to protect consumers as soon as possible. We would forcefully oppose any reforms that would undermine the FCC\u2019s authority to act to adopt meaningful net neutrality rules to protect consumers.\u201d\r\nThe 11 Senators who signed the letter were: Reid, Cantwell, Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Robert Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Tom Udall (D-NM), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Al Franken (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).\r\nThe Senators laid out four essential elements to net neutrality rules:\r\n \r\nProhibiting fast lanes;\r\nPreventing discrimination against and blocking of lawful content;\r\nProhibiting throttling; and;\r\nIncreasing transparency.\r\n \r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cA two-tiered Internet that allows Fortune 500 companies to pay for special Internet access imperils the innovation that drives the Internet economy, while leaving slow lanes for the rest of us,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u00a0\u201cWe stand with the American people in their desire to keep the Internet open and free. And we stand ready to work with you in ensuring that any reform of our communications laws is consistent with strong net neutrality protections.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\nBelow is the full text of the letter.\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Leader McConnell and Senator Thune,\r\nWe wholeheartedly agree with Senator Thune\u2019s assertion that any action Congress takes to reform our nation\u2019s communications laws must make sense \u201cfor today\u2019s converged, competitive, and Internet-powered world.\u201d Keeping the Internet free and open is essential to this goal. To the extent that any Communications Act reforms are considered in the next Congress, those reforms must be fully consistent with and protective of net neutrality principles.\u00a0 The FCC can and should take strong action to protect consumers as soon as possible. We would forcefully oppose any reforms that would undermine the FCC\u2019s authority to act to adopt meaningful net neutrality rules to protect consumers.\r\nTo be effective, net neutrality rules must provide maximum protection to consumers and maximum flexibility to promote the Internet economy. \u00a0Such net neutrality rules contain at least four essential elements: they must prohibit fast lanes, prevent discrimination against and blocking of lawful content, prohibit throttling, and increase transparency. We hope the FCC will adopt such rules without delay. \u00a0\u00a0\r\nThe Internet has created a $684 billion economic force, accounting for nearly 5 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. \u00a0For example, between 2007 and 2012, the development and use of applications for smartphones and tablets, created 466,000 high-tech jobs and generated more than $20 billion in annual revenue. \u00a0We cannot allow Internet service providers to implement practices that threaten this economic force.\r\n  A two-tiered Internet that allows Fortune 500 companies to pay for special Internet access imperils the innovation that drives the Internet economy, while leaving slow lanes for the rest of us. \u00a0This is unacceptable. \u00a0All consumers and all innovators deserve equal access to an open Internet.\r\n\u00a0Americans understand this. When the FCC first sought comments on its net neutrality rules, four million Americans registered their views with the FCC, the highest number on any issue in FCC history. These comments deliver one message overwhelmingly\u2014most are in favor of the strongest net neutrality protections.\r\n  We stand with the American people in their desire to keep the Internet open and free. \u00a0And we stand ready to work with you in ensuring that any reform of our communications laws is consistent with strong net neutrality protections.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-11-senators-urge-congress-to-preserve-strong-net-neutrality-protections", "11 Senators Urge Congress to Preserve Strong Net Neutrality Protections", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.14\n    \t\t\t  11 Senators Urge Congress to Preserve Strong Net Neutrality Protections \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t In letter to McConnell and Thune, Senators say two-tiered Internet would be unacceptable'\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  In a letter today, 11 Senators led by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) urged leaders of the 114th Congress to preserve net neutrality principles when considering reforms to the nation's communications law.\r\nTo the extent that any Communications Act reforms are considered in the next Congress, those reforms must be fully consistent with and protective of net neutrality principles, the Senators wrote in the letter to incoming Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senator John Thune, (R-SD), who will take over as chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. The FCC can and should take strong action to protect consumers as soon as possible. We would forcefully oppose any reforms that would undermine the FCC's authority to act to adopt meaningful net neutrality rules to protect consumers.\r\nThe 11 Senators who signed the letter were: Reid, Cantwell, Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Robert Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Tom Udall (D-NM), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Al Franken (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).\r\nThe Senators laid out four essential elements to net neutrality rules:\r\n \r\nProhibiting fast lanes;\r\nPreventing discrimination against and blocking of lawful content;\r\nProhibiting throttling; and;\r\nIncreasing transparency.\r\n \r\n\r\nA two-tiered Internet that allows Fortune 500 companies to pay for special Internet access imperils the innovation that drives the Internet economy, while leaving slow lanes for the rest of us, the Senators wrote. We stand with the American people in their desire to keep the Internet open and free. And we stand ready to work with you in ensuring that any reform of our communications laws is consistent with strong net neutrality protections.\r\n\r\nBelow is the full text of the letter.\r\n\r\nDear Leader McConnell and Senator Thune,\r\nWe wholeheartedly agree with Senator Thune's assertion that any action Congress takes to reform our nation's communications laws must make sense for today's converged, competitive, and Internet-powered world. Keeping the Internet free and open is essential to this goal. To the extent that any Communications Act reforms are considered in the next Congress, those reforms must be fully consistent with and protective of net neutrality principles. The FCC can and should take strong action to protect consumers as soon as possible. We would forcefully oppose any reforms that would undermine the FCC's authority to act to adopt meaningful net neutrality rules to protect consumers.\r\nTo be effective, net neutrality rules must provide maximum protection to consumers and maximum flexibility to promote the Internet economy. Such net neutrality rules contain at least four essential elements: they must prohibit fast lanes, prevent discrimination against and blocking of lawful content, prohibit throttling, and increase transparency. We hope the FCC will adopt such rules without delay. \r\nThe Internet has created a $684 billion economic force, accounting for nearly 5 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. For example, between 2007 and 2012, the development and use of applications for smartphones and tablets, created 466,000 high-tech jobs and generated more than $20 billion in annual revenue. We cannot allow Internet service providers to implement practices that threaten this economic force.\r\n  A two-tiered Internet that allows Fortune 500 companies to pay for special Internet access imperils the innovation that drives the Internet economy, while leaving slow lanes for the rest of us. This is unacceptable. All consumers and all innovators deserve equal access to an open Internet.\r\nAmericans understand this. When the FCC first sought comments on its net neutrality rules, four million Americans registered their views with the FCC, the highest number on any issue in FCC history. These comments deliver one message overwhelminglymost are in favor of the strongest net neutrality protections.\r\n  We stand with the American people in their desire to keep the Internet open and free. And we stand ready to work with you in ensuring that any reform of our communications laws is consistent with strong net neutrality protections.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/obama-signs-bills-to-extend-state-sales-tax-deduction-preserve-hanford-b-reactor", "Obama Signs Bills to Extend State Sales Tax Deduction, Preserve Hanford B Reactor", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.14\n    \t\t\t Obama Signs Bills to Extend State Sales Tax Deduction, Preserve Hanford B Reactor  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Cantwell-backed tax provision allows Washingtonians to deduct state sales tax on April's tax filings\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, President Barack Obama signed into law a tax bill that enables Washingtonians to claim the state and local sales tax deduction on their 2014 federal income taxes. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) has led bipartisan efforts to ensure the sales tax deduction remains in effect and to provide tax fairness for taxpayers in Washington state and other states that don't have an income tax.\r\nThe President also signed into the law the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, which included a Cantwell-sponsored provision that will preserve Hanford's B Reactor as part of a Manhattan Project National Historical Park. The defense bill also includes Cantwell-backed measures to: ensure women small business owners have equal access to federal contracting; transfer a surplus 1,600 acres at the Hanford site to the Tri-City Development Council for economic development; expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area by 22,000 acres, and designate the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers as Wild and Scenic.\r\nThe tax bill -- the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014 -- extends the sales tax deduction for one year. Washington is among eight states that don't have an income tax and, therefore, taxpayers can't claim an income tax deduction on their federal returns. Congress let the sales tax deduction expire at the end of 2013, which left its future in doubt.\r\nThis one-year extension means tax relief in 2014 for about 900,000 Washington filers who claim the state and local sales tax deduction, Cantwell said. This bipartisan legislation provides tax fairness for Washingtonians and helps support investment in local economies. This is an important step, but we must work to end the long-term inequity for Washington taxpayers by making the state sales tax deduction a permanent part of the tax code.\r\nCantwell, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, helped to craft the Senate package of tax extenders, which passed the Committee in April. She fought for the sales tax deduction's inclusion in the bill.\r\nAbout 900,000 Washington state taxpayers took advantage of the state sales tax deduction in 2012, reducing their taxable income by $1.9 billion, according to IRS data. Washington state taxpayers saved an average of $602 with the state sales tax deduction in 2012, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts report.\r\nThe legislation includes several other Cantwell-backed tax provisions that are critical to Washington state such as tax credits for hiring veterans, building low-income housing and producing clean energy. You can read more about these provisions here.\r\nCantwell has been a leader in the Senate on the bipartisan legislation to create the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. Elevating the B Reactor's status to a National Historical Park will ensure it will not be torn down and increase public access to the historic reactor, helping to attract more visitors to the Tri-Cities.\r\nToday marks an important milestone for preserving the history of the Tri-Cities, Cantwell said. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park will boost tourism and enable millions of Americans to learn about the scientific achievements at Hanford. I congratulate the many Tri-Cities community leaders for their years of work in making this historical park from an idea into a reality.\r\nThe National Historical Park designation gives Hanford sites the same status as Independence Hall, Valley Forge and Abraham Lincoln's birthplace. It also will help promote the site for tourism, which supports local businesses. More than 7 million people visited Washington's national parks in 2013, which pumped $430 million into surrounding communities and supported 5,269 jobs, according to a recent National Park Service report.\r\nAlong with establishing the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, the NDAA legislation also approves the transfer of 1,641 acres of land from the Hanford site to the Tri-Cities Development Council for use as an industrial park. Cantwell has worked over the last few years to urge the Department of Energy to transfer the surplus land -- which is adjacent to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the Port of Benton Manufacturing Mall, and the Tri-Cities Research District -- to use for economic development.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-defazio-and-norton-focus-pedestrian-and-bicyclist-safety", "Larsen, DeFazio and Norton Focus on Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety", "2014-12-18", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014In response to the troubling increase in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities in recent years, Reps. Rick Larsen, WA-02, Peter DeFazio, OR-04, and Eleanor Holmes Norton, DC, are asking the Government Accountability Office to investigate trends and causes of accidents involving pedestrians and bicycles and to make recommendations about improving safety.\n\u201cThe safety of everyone on the road should be our top priority. Thanks to coordinated efforts, motor vehicle accident deaths are declining. But the same is not true for the most vulnerable people on our roadways \u2013 pedestrians and bicyclists. The GAO can give us a better idea of the reasons behind why pedestrian and cyclist fatalities are going up. We want to know what more Congress can do to ensure the highest level of safety for all of those using our roads,\u201d said Larsen, DeFazio and Norton.\nText of the letter follows.\n\u00a0\nThe Honorable Gene L Dodaro\nComptroller General\nU.S. Government Accountability Office\n441 G Street, NW\nWashington, D.C. 20548\n\u00a0\nDear Mr. Dodaro:\nWhile overall traffic-related fatalities have been declining in recent years, our most vulnerable road users\u2014pedestrians and cyclists\u2014have experienced an increase in fatalities.\u00a0 In 2012, 4,743 pedestrians were killed, or an average of one fatality every two hours.\u00a0 Also in 2012, 726 cyclists were killed on our roads. These pedestrian and cyclist fatality totals each represent a 6 percent increase from 2011.\nFurthermore, we are concerned that conventional engineering practices have encouraged engineers to design roads at 5-15 miles per hour faster than the posted speed for the street. This typically means roads are designed and built with wider, straighter lanes and have fewer objects near the edges, more turn lanes, and wider turning radii at intersections. While these practices improve driving safety, a suspected unintended consequence is that drivers travel faster when they feel safer. Greater speeds can increase the frequency and severity of crashes with pedestrians and cyclists who are moving at much slower speeds and have much less protection than a motorized vehicle affords.\u00a0\nBecause of these increasing fatality numbers among the most vulnerable road users, we request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigate the trends and causes of these roadway fatalities and the challenges associated with improving pedestrian and cyclist safety. In particular, we are interested in information about the relationship between vehicle speed and roadway fatalities, and how roadway design speeds and other common practices may exacerbate this problem.\u00a0 Accordingly, we would like for GAO to examine:\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 The trends in pedestrian and cyclist accidents (including causes of such accidents), fatalities, and injuries in the last decade.\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 Challenges that states face in improving pedestrian and cyclist safety (including roadway design speeds and FHWA guidelines for road design), and the initiatives states have undertaken to address this issue. We are particularly interested in the effects of the common road engineering standard that sets speed limits at the rate 85% of drivers would use under regular conditions.\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 The extent that federal initiatives and funds been made available to assist states in improving pedestrian and cyclist safety, and additional federal actions that may be needed.\nThank you for your consideration.\n\u00a0\nSincerely,\n\u00a0\nRick Larsen\nMember of Congress\n\u00a0\nPeter DeFazio\nMember of Congress\n\u00a0\nEleanor Holmes Norton\nMember of Congress\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-supports-president%E2%80%99s-actions-normalize-relations-cuba", "Larsen Supports Presidents Actions to Normalize Relations with Cuba", "2014-12-18", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Larsen Supports President\u2019s Actions to Normalize Relations with Cuba                                           \n              Dec 17, 2014      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, released the following statement today praising President Obama\u2019s decision to begin normalizing U.S. relations with Cuba.\n\u201cIsolating the Cuban people for the last 50 years has accomplished little in the way of building democracy, and I support President Obama\u2019s decision to open the door to a new relationship with Cuba.\n\u201cContinuing an ineffective policy is no way to govern. By engaging with Cuba we can promote stronger human rights such as the freedom of expression, while also working to hold the Castro government accountable,\u201d Larsen said.\n Larsen talked with KOMO Newsradio's John Carlson about the changing U.S.-Cuba relations. You can listen to the interview here. \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20160907084401/https://delbene.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/illabot-creek-awaits-president-s-pen-to-become-wild-and-scenic", "Illabot Creek awaits presidents pen to become wild and scenic", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ROCKPORT \u2014 After a half-dozen years of trying, Skagit County\u2019s Illabot Creek is a pen-stroke away from being designated a Wild and Scenic River.\nCongress passed a National Defense Authorization Act Friday that includes the designation. All that remains is President Obama\u2019s signature.\nThe designation has been a goal for conservation groups, local and state officials for many years, but efforts to pass it as separate legislation have previously failed. This time, it was added to the $585 billion Defense bill.\n\u201cIt\u2019s super, super exciting for those of us involved in all things Skagit River that this is going through,\u201d said The Nature Conservancy\u2019s Bob Carey, director of strategic partnerships. He lives in Mount Vernon and has been involved in Illabot Creek conservation efforts since 1998.\nHe said conservation goals for the Illabot go back two decades before then, when the Skagit River bald eagle population was at its lowest. And the fish activity in the stream goes back even further, finding a place in the stories of the Skagit Valley\u2019s Native American tribes.\n\u201cOne of the reasons that so interests me in Illabot Creek is having spent time on it and seeing that it\u2019s one of the few places in the state that you can still really see what the old-timers meant when they would say they could once walk across the backs of salmon,\u201d Carey said.\nIllabot Creek starts in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest at 7,500 feet. It connects with the Skagit River between Rockport and Marblemount at 500 feet above sea level, and along the way it provides critical habitat for threatened fish species and other wildlife.\n\u201cIt\u2019s basically home to every species of salmon and salmonids in the Skagit Basin,\u201d state Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist Brett Barkdull said. \u201cIt gets a lot of use by bull trout and steelhead, chums, pink salmon, coho, Chinook and the whole works, basically.\u201d\nThe Illabot offers stable spawning habitat and gets some of the highest-density returns of a wide variety of fish species.\n\u201cOne of the reasons that fisheries folks were so interested in supporting this designation in the first place is because there really isn\u2019t any place that has the variety of spawning and the kinds of numbers that we see in Illabot,\u201d Barkdull said. \u201cIt\u2019s kind of the shiny little star in the Skagit Basin as far as fish production goes.\u201d\nBecoming a recognized wild and scenic river will prevent construction of dams or other structures that would impair the free-flowing nature of the creek.\n\u201cWe\u2019re thrilled about it. This has been a long time coming,\u201d Skagit Land Trust Executive Director Molly Doran said. \u201cA lot of partners have been working on this for years, so it\u2019s great to see it coming together.\u201d\nThe Nature Conservancy and The Wilderness Society said Illabot Creek is an important piece of the greater Skagit River watershed, which has been recognized as a Wild and Scenic River since 1978.\nWhile the wild and scenic designation has gained local, state and national support over the years, the stream has been a focus for local restoration projects, as well.\nOn the same day Congress moved the defense bill forward, the Skagit Land Trust finalized a $100,000 conservation easement on a 100-acre property adjacent to Illabot Creek.\nIn September, the Skagit Land Trust and Skagit River System Cooperative each received\u00a0grant money\u00a0from the state\u2019s Salmon Recovery Funding Board for projects that would benefit fish in the watershed.\nCooperative Restoration Director Steve Hinton said the latest congressional action is good news.\n\u201cIt\u2019s been a watershed that\u2019s had a lot of attention over the years in how it\u2019s been one of the more functioning and intact watersheds, so certainly the wild and scenic designation is merited,\u201d he said.\nUsing a $1.1 million grant from the state, the cooperative is building two bridges and removing 850 feet of dike to restore natural sediment deposits that contribute to the creek\u2019s alluvial fan. Hinton said the project is focused on the stretch of Illabot Creek along Rockport-Cascade Road.\nThe proposal to designate Illabot first made its way to Congress when U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen and Sen. Patty Murray\u00a0introduced a bill in 2009.\nLarsen joined local officials in August that year to\u00a0tour the stream. County Commissioner Sharon Dillon says the experience was memorable.\n\u201cWe saw the fish, but you could also see there were deer and elk. I didn\u2019t see \u2014 thank goodness \u2014 a bear or wolf or coyote, but you could see evidence that they had been there,\u201d she said. \u201cI thought it was an awesome idea, and then after I saw the area I thought, \u2018OK, this is a great place to protect to keep the area pristine.\u2019 \u201d\nThe bill didn\u2019t pass Congress in 2009 or in 2011.\nThis time, Illabot Creek made its way into the national defense bill as one of several unrelated public lands measures. Joining Murray and Larsen, Sen. Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep Suzan DelBene supported its passage.\n\u201cIt took three separate tries over six years, but with perseverance and many dedicated local partners, Illabot Creek will remain wild and scenic for generations to come,\u201d Larsen said in an email Monday. \u201cWhen we preserve open spaces like Illabot Creek, we protect salmon spawning waters that support healthy fish populations. We protect the clean and free-flowing waters that join the Skagit River.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=71a2f24d-b012-42d2-95f0-f5380c48ce42", "Cantwell Statement on Presidents Action to Protect Bristol Bay Fisheries", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.16.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on President\u2019s Action to Protect Bristol Bay Fisheries  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) issued the following statement on President Obama\u2019s action to protect Bristol Bay, Alaska from oil and gas drilling.\r\n\u201cI applaud the Administration for protecting Bristol Bay and the thousands of Northwest fishing jobs it supports,\u201d said Cantwell, a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and the Coast Guard.\u00a0 \u201cBristol Bay supports a $2 billion fishing industry that helps to sustain economies in Washington and Alaska. This decision affirms that we will not put fishing jobs at risk in the home of the nation\u2019s most productive commercial fisheries.\u201d\r\nBristol Bay supports crab, halibut, groundfish and more than half the sockeye salmon on the planet. In total, 40 percent of American wild seafood comes from Bristol Bay. Thousands of Washington state jobs \u2013 including commercial and recreational fishing, processing, shipbuilding and the restaurant industry \u2013 depend on Bristol Bay. Bristol Bay is the most productive salmon run in the world, supporting 14,000 full and part-time salmon-related jobs.\r\nCantwell has long fought to protect Washington fishing jobs from potentially harmful developments in Bristol Bay. She has led efforts to stop a large mining company from developing the Pebble Mine, a massive pit mine, near Bristol Bay. Cantwell called on the Environmental Protection Agency to use its authority under the Clean Water Act to block the project after the EPA\u2019s watershed assessment showed there would be severe impacts to salmon and water quality. In July, the EPA issued proposed limits to the Pebble Mine project.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f844a39f-9d3a-4bfc-8827-f7b692ca82f6", "Cantwell Announces 1-Year Extension of State Sales Tax Deduction for 2014", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.16.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Announces 1-Year Extension of State Sales Tax Deduction for 2014  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Congress passes key tax bill, will allow Washingtonians to deduct state sales tax on April\u2019s tax filings\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded U.S. Senate passage of a tax bill that will enable Washingtonians to claim the state and local sales tax deduction on their 2014 federal income taxes. The bill, the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014, also includes other critical Cantwell priorities including tax credits for hiring veterans, building low-income housing and producing clean energy.\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe tax bill passed the Senate by a margin of 76 to 16. It has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now goes to President Obama\u2019s desk for signature. Washington is among eight states that don\u2019t have an income tax and, therefore, taxpayers can\u2019t claim an income tax deduction on their federal returns. Congress let the sales tax deduction expire at the end of 2013, which left its future in doubt.\r\n\u00a0\r\nCantwell, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, helped to craft the Senate package of tax extenders, which passed the Committee in April. She fought for the sales tax deduction\u2019s inclusion in the bill.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cTonight, we can say that Washingtonians can take the sales receipts they have this year and make sure they are deducted from their tax obligations for 2014,\u201d Cantwell said in a Senate floor speech tonight. \u201cI hope we\u2019ll be here someday when we can get permanent tax fairness into the code. That means a permanent provision so we don\u2019t have to come back here every year and get the tax fairness our states deserve. Let\u2019s make sure we take these provisions that are so important for our economy to move forward to give the taxpayers predictability and certainty.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\nVideo of Senator Cantwell\u2019s floor speech is available here.\r\n\u00a0\r\nSince 2004, Cantwell has led bipartisan efforts to ensure the sales tax deduction remains in effect and to provide tax fairness for taxpayers in Washington state and other states that don\u2019t have an income tax, and therefore, can\u2019t claim a state income tax deduction. Cantwell has repeatedly introduced legislation to make the deduction permanent, including an amendment earlier in 2014 in the Senate Finance Committee. Cantwell fought to get a two-year extension of the sales tax deduction in the deal that Congress reached Jan. 1, 2013, to avert the fiscal cliff.\r\n\u00a0\r\nAbout 900,000 Washington state taxpayers took advantage of the state sales tax deduction in 2012, reducing their taxable income by $1.9 billion, according to IRS data. Washington state taxpayers saved an average of $602 with the state sales tax deduction in 2012, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts report. Washington is among eight states, including Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming, in which taxpayers don\u2019t pay a state income tax, and therefore, can\u2019t claim an income tax deduction on their tax returns.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cThe state and local sales tax deduction promotes economic growth across Washington,\u201d said Lori Mattson, President & CEO of the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce.\u00a0 \u201cThe deduction ensures hundreds of millions of dollars stay in our state and are spent locally.\u00a0 As the fastest-growing community in Washington, this has a huge impact on local jobs and businesses in the Tri-Cities.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cContinuing the deduction for state sales taxes paid will enable more dollars to be retained by taxpayers and circulated back into our local economy resulting in a positive economic stimulus,\u201d said Chuck Zimmerman, President of the Board of Directors, Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cThis keeps us on equal footing with those in other states who can deduct an income tax, but it also benefits Washington businesses by removing what would otherwise be a financial incentive to customers to shop across state lines,\u201d said Verlynn Best, President and CEO of the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce. \r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cIn Walla Walla, this means that our residents will have more disposable income to spend at the small businesses that employ the vast majority of our friends and neighbors, and that make our town the community that it is,\u201d said David Woolson, President and CEO of the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce. \u201cFor this reason, the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce appreciates all of the hard work that our Congressional delegation is putting in to ensure that the state and local tax deduction is extended and/or made permanent.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe legislation includes several other tax provisions championed by Senator Cantwell that are critical to Washington state, including:\r\n \r\nVeterans\u2019 Work Opportunity Tax Credit: The legislation includes a one-year extension of a tax incentive that helped Washington state employers hire 16,000 veterans since October 2012. It encourages businesses to hire returning veterans through a tax credit of up to $9,600.\r\n \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\r\n \r\nLow Income Housing Tax Credit: This provision is designed to get more affordable housing built in hard-to-serve areas and challenging areas due to high costs. Since the program was created in 1986, it has helped finance more than 2.4 million affordable apartments nationwide, including more than 56,000 in Washington, and has supported 95,000 jobs annually \u2013 many of which are in the small business sector.\r\n \r\n\u201cThe economy in this state benefits highly from low-income tax credits, both for the housing units that have been built and the jobs that have been created in their construction,\u201d said Karen Miller, Chairwoman of the Washington State Housing and Finance Commission.\r\n \r\nNew Markets Tax Credit:\u00a0 This provision encourages investment in economically challenged areas. Cantwell is a long-time supporter of the New Markets Tax Credit, which has supported thousands of jobs in Washington state and more than 350,000 jobs across the nation. In Washington state, between 2003 and 2010, $650 million in NMTC investments leveraged more than $1.2 billion in total project investments and helped create nearly 6,000 full-time jobs and 8,000 construction jobs.\r\n \r\n\u201cNew Markets Tax Credits are a valuable tool we use to attract companies bringing family-wage jobs to our lower-income communities,\u201d said Todd Coleman, Executive Director of the Port of Vancouver. \u201cA great example is Farwest Steel, a company that, with the help of new markets tax credits, built a facility at the Port of Vancouver in 2010 and now employs more than 250 people.\u201d\r\n \r\nEnergy production: The legislation extends for one year a tax incentive to encourage production of wind and solar energy. Earlier this year, Cantwell introduced a bipartisan amendment with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to extend the wind production tax credit for another two years. \r\n \r\n\u201cWind Energy development has had a dramatic impact on our rural community. It has almost tripled our tax base, created new living wage jobs, brought new revenue to farmers, and expanded economic activity throughout the region,\u201d said Jennie Dickinson, Manager, Port of Columbia in Columbia County.\u00a0 \u201cAfter decades of suffering from declines in employment and population, this industry has breathed new life into our community.\u201d\r\n\u201cWithout the tax credit, wind energy development in Klickitat County and across Washington state would not be viable,\u201d said the Klickitat County Board of Commissioners.\r\n \r\nBiodiesel tax credit: The bill will extend the $1-per-gallon tax credit for biodiesel producers. Industry growth slowed after Congress let the credit expire in 2012 and production remained flat at just under 1.1 billion gallons \u2013 the same level as 2011.\u00a0When the credit was reinstated in 2013, the U.S. biodiesel industry produced 1.8 billion gallons in that year. Cantwell and Grassley introduced separate legislation earlier this year to renew the credit.\r\n \r\n \r\nCommuter Tax Benefit: Commuters will be allowed retroactively to take advantage of a pre-tax benefit of $245 per month for public transit use in 2014. The transit benefit dropped to $130 per month on January 1, affecting about 1,600 employers in King County. Cantwell has called for parity for transit users and the legislation passed today reinstates the previous benefit so transit commuters continue getting the same amount drivers receive to cover parking costs.\r\n \r\n\u00a0\r\n \r\nResearch and Development: The legislation extends for businesses a 20 percent credit for research spending that exceeds predicted R&D costs for that year. Since its enactment in mid-1981, the credit has been extended 15 times and significantly modified five times. In addition, Cantwell cosponsored a bipartisan amendment that enables small startups to use the credit and increase domestic innovation.\r\n \r\n\u201cAs the State's Land Grant institution, our researchers work hard to meet the needs of our industry partners and the R&D Tax credit promotes that collaboration,\u201d said Mel Netzhammer, Chancellor of Washington State University Vancouver.\r\n\u201cIncreasing the research capacity in Clark County is a key component of developing new industry clusters and assisting existing clusters grow,\u201d said Mike Bomar, President of the Columbia River Economic Development Council.\u00a0 \u201cPrograms that support this endeavor, such as the R&D tax credit, help incentivize this important piece of our long-term economic development strategy for the region.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-announces-1-year-extension-of-state-sales-tax-deduction-for-2014", "Cantwell Announces 1-Year Extension of State Sales Tax Deduction for 2014", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.16.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Announces 1-Year Extension of State Sales Tax Deduction for 2014  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Congress passes key tax bill, will allow Washingtonians to deduct state sales tax on April's tax filings\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded U.S. Senate passage of a tax bill that will enable Washingtonians to claim the state and local sales tax deduction on their 2014 federal income taxes. The bill, the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014, also includes other critical Cantwell priorities including tax credits for hiring veterans, building low-income housing and producing clean energy.\r\n\r\nThe tax bill passed the Senate by a margin of 76 to 16. It has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now goes to President Obama's desk for signature. Washington is among eight states that don't have an income tax and, therefore, taxpayers can't claim an income tax deduction on their federal returns. Congress let the sales tax deduction expire at the end of 2013, which left its future in doubt.\r\n\r\nCantwell, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, helped to craft the Senate package of tax extenders, which passed the Committee in April. She fought for the sales tax deduction's inclusion in the bill.\r\n\r\nTonight, we can say that Washingtonians can take the sales receipts they have this year and make sure they are deducted from their tax obligations for 2014, Cantwell said in a Senate floor speech tonight. I hope we'll be here someday when we can get permanent tax fairness into the code. That means a permanent provision so we don't have to come back here every year and get the tax fairness our states deserve. Let's make sure we take these provisions that are so important for our economy to move forward to give the taxpayers predictability and certainty.\r\n\r\nVideo of Senator Cantwell's floor speech is available here.\r\n\r\nSince 2004, Cantwell has led bipartisan efforts to ensure the sales tax deduction remains in effect and to provide tax fairness for taxpayers in Washington state and other states that don't have an income tax, and therefore, can't claim a state income tax deduction. Cantwell has repeatedly introduced legislation to make the deduction permanent, including an amendment earlier in 2014 in the Senate Finance Committee. Cantwell fought to get a two-year extension of the sales tax deduction in the deal that Congress reached Jan. 1, 2013, to avert the fiscal cliff.\r\n\r\nAbout 900,000 Washington state taxpayers took advantage of the state sales tax deduction in 2012, reducing their taxable income by $1.9 billion, according to IRS data. Washington state taxpayers saved an average of $602 with the state sales tax deduction in 2012, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts report. Washington is among eight states, including Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming, in which taxpayers don't pay a state income tax, and therefore, can't claim an income tax deduction on their tax returns.\r\n\r\nThe state and local sales tax deduction promotes economic growth across Washington, said Lori Mattson, President & CEO of the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce. The deduction ensures hundreds of millions of dollars stay in our state and are spent locally. As the fastest-growing community in Washington, this has a huge impact on local jobs and businesses in the Tri-Cities.\r\n\r\nContinuing the deduction for state sales taxes paid will enable more dollars to be retained by taxpayers and circulated back into our local economy resulting in a positive economic stimulus, said Chuck Zimmerman, President of the Board of Directors, Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce.\r\n\r\nThis keeps us on equal footing with those in other states who can deduct an income tax, but it also benefits Washington businesses by removing what would otherwise be a financial incentive to customers to shop across state lines, said Verlynn Best, President and CEO of the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce. \r\n\r\nIn Walla Walla, this means that our residents will have more disposable income to spend at the small businesses that employ the vast majority of our friends and neighbors, and that make our town the community that it is, said David Woolson, President and CEO of the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce. For this reason, the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce appreciates all of the hard work that our Congressional delegation is putting in to ensure that the state and local tax deduction is extended and/or made permanent.\r\n\r\nThe legislation includes several other tax provisions championed by Senator Cantwell that are critical to Washington state, including:\r\n \r\nVeterans' Work Opportunity Tax Credit: The legislation includes a one-year extension of a tax incentive that helped Washington state employers hire 16,000 veterans since October 2012. It encourages businesses to hire returning veterans through a tax credit of up to $9,600.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nLow Income Housing Tax Credit: This provision is designed to get more affordable housing built in hard-to-serve areas and challenging areas due to high costs. Since the program was created in 1986, it has helped finance more than 2.4 million affordable apartments nationwide, including more than 56,000 in Washington, and has supported 95,000 jobs annually  many of which are in the small business sector.\r\n \r\nThe economy in this state benefits highly from low-income tax credits, both for the housing units that have been built and the jobs that have been created in their construction, said Karen Miller, Chairwoman of the Washington State Housing and Finance Commission.\r\n \r\nNew Markets Tax Credit: This provision encourages investment in economically challenged areas. Cantwell is a long-time supporter of the New Markets Tax Credit, which has supported thousands of jobs in Washington state and more than 350,000 jobs across the nation. In Washington state, between 2003 and 2010, $650 million in NMTC investments leveraged more than $1.2 billion in total project investments and helped create nearly 6,000 full-time jobs and 8,000 construction jobs.\r\n \r\nNew Markets Tax Credits are a valuable tool we use to attract companies bringing family-wage jobs to our lower-income communities, said Todd Coleman, Executive Director of the Port of Vancouver. A great example is Farwest Steel, a company that, with the help of new markets tax credits, built a facility at the Port of Vancouver in 2010 and now employs more than 250 people.\r\n \r\nEnergy production: The legislation extends for one year a tax incentive to encourage production of wind and solar energy. Earlier this year, Cantwell introduced a bipartisan amendment with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to extend the wind production tax credit for another two years. \r\n \r\nWind Energy development has had a dramatic impact on our rural community. It has almost tripled our tax base, created new living wage jobs, brought new revenue to farmers, and expanded economic activity throughout the region, said Jennie Dickinson, Manager, Port of Columbia in Columbia County. After decades of suffering from declines in employment and population, this industry has breathed new life into our community.\r\nWithout the tax credit, wind energy development in Klickitat County and across Washington state would not be viable, said the Klickitat County Board of Commissioners.\r\n \r\nBiodiesel tax credit: The bill will extend the $1-per-gallon tax credit for biodiesel producers. Industry growth slowed after Congress let the credit expire in 2012 and production remained flat at just under 1.1 billion gallons  the same level as 2011.When the credit was reinstated in 2013, the U.S. biodiesel industry produced 1.8 billion gallons in that year. Cantwell and Grassley introduced separate legislation earlier this year to renew the credit.\r\n \r\n \r\nCommuter Tax Benefit: Commuters will be allowed retroactively to take advantage of a pre-tax benefit of $245 per month for public transit use in 2014. The transit benefit dropped to $130 per month on January 1, affecting about 1,600 employers in King County. Cantwell has called for parity for transit users and the legislation passed today reinstates the previous benefit so transit commuters continue getting the same amount drivers receive to cover parking costs.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nResearch and Development: The legislation extends for businesses a 20 percent credit for research spending that exceeds predicted R&D costs for that year. Since its enactment in mid-1981, the credit has been extended 15 times and significantly modified five times. In addition, Cantwell cosponsored a bipartisan amendment that enables small startups to use the credit and increase domestic innovation.\r\n \r\nAs the State's Land Grant institution, our researchers work hard to meet the needs of our industry partners and the R&D Tax credit promotes that collaboration, said Mel Netzhammer, Chancellor of Washington State University Vancouver.\r\nIncreasing the research capacity in Clark County is a key component of developing new industry clusters and assisting existing clusters grow, said Mike Bomar, President of the Columbia River Economic Development Council. Programs that support this endeavor, such as the R&D tax credit, help incentivize this important piece of our long-term economic development strategy for the region.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-presidents-action-to-protect-bristol-bay-fisheries", "Cantwell Statement on Presidents Action to Protect Bristol Bay Fisheries", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.16.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on President's Action to Protect Bristol Bay Fisheries  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) issued the following statement on President Obama's action to protect Bristol Bay, Alaska from oil and gas drilling.\r\nI applaud the Administration for protecting Bristol Bay and the thousands of Northwest fishing jobs it supports, said Cantwell, a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and the Coast Guard. Bristol Bay supports a $2 billion fishing industry that helps to sustain economies in Washington and Alaska. This decision affirms that we will not put fishing jobs at risk in the home of the nation's most productive commercial fisheries.\r\nBristol Bay supports crab, halibut, groundfish and more than half the sockeye salmon on the planet. In total, 40 percent of American wild seafood comes from Bristol Bay. Thousands of Washington state jobs  including commercial and recreational fishing, processing, shipbuilding and the restaurant industry  depend on Bristol Bay. Bristol Bay is the most productive salmon run in the world, supporting 14,000 full and part-time salmon-related jobs.\r\nCantwell has long fought to protect Washington fishing jobs from potentially harmful developments in Bristol Bay. She has led efforts to stop a large mining company from developing the Pebble Mine, a massive pit mine, near Bristol Bay. Cantwell called on the Environmental Protection Agency to use its authority under the Clean Water Act to block the project after the EPA's watershed assessment showed there would be severe impacts to salmon and water quality. In July, the EPA issued proposed limits to the Pebble Mine project.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=a2931e5b-3203-4e8d-8231-94ea1a947fa9", "Murray Applauds Major Federal Investment in Washington State Health Care Innovation Programs", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), incoming Ranking Member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, applauded an announcement from Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell that Washington state will receive a $64,997,973 grant to direct, develop and test innovative health care payment and service models, with the goal of improving health care quality and lowering costs. Washington state has been a national leader in enrolling working families for coverage in Apple Health, and has also received national attention for its public health initiatives. The funding will support collaboration between various Washington state organizations working to lower costs, provide better care, and build healthier communities statewide. \r\n\u201cWashington state is a national leader in health care and I am thrilled that today\u2019s announcement will enable our state to build on that tradition of leadership,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cThis funding will allow our state to further develop innovative programs at the local level, which will help improve health care access, affordability, and quality for families in Washington state and across the country.\u201d\u00a0 \r\nThe grant was made possible through the second round of the Medicare and Medicaid Services State Innovation Models initiative. In July, Senator Murray led a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services along with members of the Washington state Congressional delegation, which urged consideration of Washington state\u2019s application to the program. \r\nFor more information about the Medicare and Medicaid Services State Innovation Models initiative, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=ef868cbd-0436-40aa-b613-9ab614aa01ec", "Senator Murrays Statement on President Obamas Bristol Bay Action", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2014Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after President Obama signed an order permanently protecting approximately 32.5 million acres in the North Aleutian Basin Planning Area, that includes Bristol Bay, from oil and gas leasing.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cI applaud President Obama for taking this step today to permanently protect Bristol Bay from oil and gas development.\u00a0 Bristol Bay is home to world-class salmon fisheries that our state relies on, and I am pleased that the Administration continues to take actions to protect Washington state\u2019s fishing communities and an industry that supports thousands of local families, while contributing hundreds of millions of dollars to the regional economy.\u201d \r\nThe Bristol Bay watershed is an area of exceptional ecological value with salmon productivity unrivaled anywhere in North America. The region\u2019s habitat supports all five species of Pacific salmon found in North America: coho, chinook, sockeye, chum, and pink. These salmon populations are critical to the health of the entire ecosystem. \r\nBristol Bay supports commercial, subsistence, and recreational fishing industries that generate hundreds of millions of dollars in economic yield each year while creating and sustaining thousands of jobs.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pattyinnews?ContentRecord_id=c9af825c-de52-4cc6-8440-437335a689f2", "Sen. Murray aims to tackle No Child Left Behind", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SEATTLE \u2014 Former preschool teacher U.S. Sen. Patty Murray wants to rescue the so-called No Child Left Behind Law in her new role as ranking Democrat on the Senate Health Education Labor and Pensions Committee.\r\nMurray will replace Sen. Tom Harkin, the committee's current chairman, who is retiring this year after almost 40 years in Congress, as the committee's Democratic leader. She also will remain on the Senate Budget Committee, which she chaired this past Congress, as the ranking Democrat on that panel.\r\nShe has succeeded in promoting other education initiatives in recent years, including reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act, which focused on adult education and retraining. She also has been a leader in directing federal dollars toward early childhood education, and she worked on reauthorization of the federal Head Start program and helped college students with changes in federal grants.\r\nBut no one in Congress has succeeded in reauthorizing the federal framework for the nation's schools, which is formally known as the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Informally, it is the No Child Left Behind Act. Murray wants to give states more flexibility in meeting education accountability goals, and focus on literacy for low-income kids, getting all students ready for careers and college, and offering more support for tribal students, military kids and homeless children.\r\nThe Senate Health Education Labor and Pensions Committee passed an education bill this year to update the federal law, but it did not go anywhere in the House.\r\nAlthough the Senate will be controlled by Republicans next year, Murray said that will not stop her from seeking to help children in both Washington state and the nation.\r\nShe said Monday that she has already been meeting with the new committee chair Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., and they plan to work together to fix No Child Left Behind.\r\n\"There is a lot of work ahead of us, but we're both committed,\" Murray said.\r\nU.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan established a stopgap measure when Congress failed to reauthorize the federal framework for the nation's schools after years of delays.\r\nWashington was given one of those waivers, but lost it in April when federal officials were not satisfied with the state's efforts toward education reform. So Murray's home state may have the most to gain from her efforts to reauthorize the federal education law.\r\nThe loss of the waiver put new restrictions on how Washington schools could spend $40 million in federal dollars each year, beginning with this school year.\r\nWashington's education chief, Randy Dorn, and other state leaders say the problem isn't with Washington state's education system, but with the federal law and inaction by Congress.\r\n- AP\r\n  Read more here: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2014/12/16/4031484_us-sen-murray-aims-to-tackle-no.html?sp=/99/101/369/&rh=1#storylink=cpy", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://delbene.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/wilderness-addition-protects-popular-recreation-area", "Wilderness addition protects popular recreation area", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cA lot of people feel that wilderness is change,\u201d said Tom Uniack, conservation director for\u00a0Washington Wild. \u201cBut what wilderness is really about is keeping something the same. Unless you do something to keep something the same, it is going to change.\u201d\r\rOn Friday, a new chunk of land was protected as wilderness in Washington state when 22,000 acres were added to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The bill passed the U.S. Senate after earlier passing the House. In the same area, nearly 40 miles of river received wild and scenic river protection off of I-90 on the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and the Pratt rivers. Illabot Creek, which flows into the Skagit River, also received wild and scenic river protection.\r\rThe Middle Fork Snoqalmie Valley is a popular area for recreation. It's used by mountain bikers, hikers, backpackers, rafters, kayakers, climbers, scramblers and more.\r\rUniack is particularly excited that so much of the land is low elevation. In our state, 94 percent of designated wilderness on national forest land is above 3,000 feet.\r\rThe last major wilderness designation in our state was the\u00a0Wild Sky Wilderness\u00a0in 2008, in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Wild Sky was 30 percent low elevation. This addition to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness was 50 percent low elevation.\r\rUniack says low-elevation wilderness is important for three main reasons:\r\r \r\tIt protects old-growth and mature forests\r\tIt protects fish habitat\r\tIt provides areas for multi-season recreational opportunities for families.\r \r\rWith so many areas of wilderness at high elevation, most of them can only be reached for a portion of the year, unless you have mountaineering skills.\r\rAreas like this newly protected area and Wild Sky offer recreation all year. They also have the benefit of being easy to access.\r\rThe Middle Fork Valley is only about an hour from Seattle. The road is even being paved, which will improve access and fish habitat at the same time.\r\rCrafting a plan for protection of the valley required a careful balancing act. Uniack is proud of how many groups came together to make it happen, including those representing fishermen, boaters, hikers, climbers and mountain bikers. Getting a coalition together also helped get the bill into Congress. The bill was first introduced in 2007.\r\r\u201cOur Congressional champions have been awesome,\u201d Uniack said. \u201cSen. (Patty) Murray and Congresswoman\u00a0(Suzan) DelBene\u00a0and Congressman (Dave) Reichert have been tireless advocates for this effort. They've just never given up. It's hard to pass a law in Congress. But if you get local support and have the patience to get to the finish, it's well worth the work.\u201d\r\rOne important piece of work was preserving mountain bike access for the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trail, a popular mountain biking spot. Bikes are not allowed within wilderness.\r\rGlenn Glover, executive director of\u00a0Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, said the important part for his group was finding a balance between access and protection.\r\rUltimately, the wilderness boundaries were adjusted to avoid the mountain bike trail. In order to ensure protection for Middle Fork Snoqualmie and the Pratt River, the groups pushed for them to be designated as wild and scenic rivers.\r\r\u201cWe were looking for a way to not be in opposition to the lands protection,\u201d Glover said. \u201cWe don't want to be in opposition. Mountain bikers are conservationists at heart.\u201d\r\rOnce it was clear mountain biking would be allowed in the protection plan, Glover said his group was vocally supportive of the wilderness and river protections.\r\r\u201cWe're pleased to have been able to find a compromise that we're fully able to support and it's kind of unique in that regard.\u201d\r\rIt's not very often, he said, that a bike group is able support a wilderness designation.\r\rWild and scenic rivers must be managed to protect and enhance the values for which the river is designated. In this case, that includes recreation. They must also be maintained in their free-flowing state.\r\rBoth of those points are something that Thomas O'Keefe, Pacific Northwest stewardship director for\u00a0American Whitewater, cares about deeply.\r\r\u201cIt's just a spectacularly stunning landscape,\u201d O'Keefe said. He's pleased to see it protected, and not just for boaters.\r\r\u201cIt is an exceptional valley for outdoor recreation,\u201d he said. \u201cIt has it all, really: The driving for pleasure, the whitewater boating, the fishing, the mountain biking, the hiking. There's scrambling, for those who want more of a challenge, or people drop into the basin for backcountry skiing. And there are a couple of big walls in there that people use for climbing. So it really has all the activities and it's concentrated in a small, accessible area. \u2026 I can't think of an area that has these resources so close to an urban area \u2026 this is pretty unique.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20160907072722/https://delbene.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/usda-grant-provides-funds-to-help-farm-to-school-sales", "USDA grant provides funds to help Farm-to-School sales", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "MOUNT VERNON \u2014 The Washington Sustainable Food & Farming Network, a Mount Vernon-based agricultural advocacy organization, recently received a $88,444 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help jump-start purchases of fresh local produce by schools.\nExecutive Director Ellen Gray said the two-year grant will partially support three staff members who will help facilitate purchases of fresh, locally grown produce in 12 school districts: eight in Whatcom County and four in Central Washington.\nThe goal is to increase funds spent on local produce by 25 to 50 percent, Gray said.\n\u201cThe schools are definitely interested in supporting local farms, they are just under time and budget and sometimes labor constraints,\u201d Gray said.\nStaff supported by the grant will work to educate school food service workers on what crops are available at different times of the year to guide menu planning. Taste tests led by farmers or staff will introduce kids to local fruits and vegetables.\nOn the producers\u2019 side, farmers interested in selling to schools can learn more about what kinds of produce schools want and how to process them for ease of use, Gray said.\nConnecting both parties to food hubs, such as those in Bow and Everson, will help both parties buy and sell in bulk, Gray said. She said there is still a great need for local food-processing infrastructure to support bulk sales.\n\u201cOnce we get these relationships built and this infrastructure in place, school districts will start to buy fresh produce from local farmers,\u201d Gray said.\nGray said the program utilized local match funding and focused on schools that already use some local food procurement programs.\nThe project was one of 82 that received support through the USDA\u2019s Farm to School Program.\n\u201cAs schools do more to provide healthy, nutritious food for students, we should do everything possible to help them take advantage of the amazing fresh fruits and vegetables grown by our local farmers,\u201d said U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene, D-Wash., in a news release from the advocacy agency. \u201cThe funds announced today will support successful programs that help connect local farmers with school districts eager to serve our students fresh, healthy, locally grown food.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=fc4ed553-d2a3-408c-9e47-60b72cd825c2", "Senator Murrays Statement on Fiscal Year 2015 Spending Bill, Washington State Priorities", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement following the passage of the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2015 Appropriations bill, which directs spending for federal agencies through September 30, 2015. \r\n\u201cI voted today for the critical investments this bill makes in Washington state families, jobs, communities, and economy\u2014and because I believe our country deserves better than a government that simply lurches from one short-term spending bill and one artificial crisis to another. I fought to make sure this bill included key Washington state priorities\u2014including funding for our schools, roads, worker training initiatives, Hanford cleanup, new protections for communities near oil train routes, housing for our most vulnerable families, care and support for our veterans and servicemembers, and more. \u00a0This bill will give Washington state businesses and the economy some budget certainty through next year, which is good for local workers and would not have been possible had we been forced to pass a short-term bill and renegotiate this legislation when Republicans control both chambers of Congress. \r\n\u201cHowever, this bill is far from perfect and there are some provisions that Republicans fought to include that I strongly oppose and had hoped would be removed. I am extremely disappointed that Republicans put Wall Street interests ahead of middle class families and refused to take out the provision they fought for that attempts to undercut Wall Street reform. \u00a0I am very concerned that some of the Republican provisions could increase health care premiums for families and businesses. \u00a0And I oppose the policy change slipped into the bill at the last minute that opens the door to reductions in pensions for many retirees who worked hard and deserve to get the benefits they\u2019ve earned. \r\n\u201cWhen I worked last year to pass a two-year bipartisan budget deal, one of my priorities was allowing Congress to return to the regular budget process and get back to the important work of creating jobs, growing the economy, making the best use of taxpayer dollars, and showing the American people that their elected officials can work together and deliver results. While this bill includes some Republican provisions I don\u2019t support, it represents an important step forward when it comes to economic growth, jobs, and bipartisan compromise. I am hopeful that we can work together next year to build on the progress made in this bill, address the concerns raised by the inclusion of harmful Republican provisions, and continue to deliver results for the families we represent.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pattyinnews?ContentRecord_id=572df121-3427-49ce-b472-ebbfba2d2171", "Patty Murray and Paul Ryans teamwork is a model for Congress", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Seattle Times Editorial  \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tOUT of what is likely the least productive and most dysfunctional Congress in American history, a sliver of good governance has sometimes escaped.\r\nOne such ray comes in the bipartisan proposal put forth by respective budget chairs Democratic U.S. Sen. Patty Murray of Washington and Republican U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin.\r\nTheir Evidence-Based Policymaking Commission Act would create a 15-member commission to study the effectiveness of federal programs and tax expenditures via data analysis. It would also explore how to best protect the privacy rights and confidentiality of people interacting with federal agencies.\r\nDebate on the proposal, let alone passage, can\u2019t come until the new GOP-controlled Congress is seated early next year. But Murray, who will then be in the Senate minority, and Ryan, who is expected to retain his powerful House perch, both intend to reintroduce the measure then and push for ratification.\r\nMembers in both chambers, regardless of their party affiliation, should give it serious consideration.\r\nAt the very least, their data-driven policymaking proposal could increase effectiveness and streamline program adjustments.\r\nAt best, it would serve as an example of the cooperation and compromise needed to combat Congress\u2019 habitual partisan discord.\r\nThe effort is the result of a blossoming collegiality forged two years ago when the duo collaborated to craft a federal budget agreement. And they kept their bipartisan fires burning through a series of encouraging text messages, according to a Murray aide.\r\nSo when Ryan\u2019s staff first proposed they work together on the commission, Murray\u2019s staff responded by suggesting the initiative also look at spending in the tax code.\r\nBeyond proposing a bill worth pursuing, Murray and Ryan\u2019s continued collaborations set an example for the rest of Congress. And, theirs is a template worth emulating.\r\nAs Democrats blame the GOP for congressional ineffectiveness, and Republicans demagogue President Obama for exerting undue executive control, Mur", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=075a5588-c70b-4766-9e1f-59cb5af65cb3", "Cantwell Statement on Vote Against Omnibus Spending Bill", "2014-12-14", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on Vote Against Omnibus Spending Bill  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) issued the following statement after voting against the omnibus government spending bill. The Senate approved the legislation by a 56-40 margin.\r\n\u201cI strongly oppose the derivatives provision of this bill, which would overturn a critical component of our work on the 2010 Wall Street Reform legislation,\u201d Cantwell said. \u201cI am also opposed to the changes that would weaken protections for current retirees who depend on multi-employer pension plans.\u201d\r\nCantwell\u2019s vote was in opposition to language in the omnibus bill that repeals Section 716 of the 2010 Dodd-Frank financial reform law, known as the \u201cswaps pushout rule.\u201d Cantwell was a key proponent of Section 716, which ensures that taxpayers aren\u2019t on the hook for financial institutions that trade in complex derivatives.\r\nIn 2010, Cantwell played a leading role with Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) to ensure Section 716 was included in the Dodd-Frank legislation. The rule prohibits financial institutions that trade in derivatives from being covered through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Federal Reserve in case of failure. Cantwell fought to include provisions in the financial reform legislation that required over-the-counter derivatives to be traded on exchanges to promote transparency and ensure they are protected against losses.\r\n\u00a0Cantwell has long fought to protect consumers from excessive Wall Street speculation and to prevent a repeat of the 2008 financial crisis. In July 2013, Cantwell, along with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Senator John McCain (R-AZ), and Senator Angus King (I-ME), introduced the 21st Century Glass-Steagall Act. That legislation would revive financial regulations separating traditional banks with federal-insured savings and checking accounts from riskier financial institutions that offer services such as investment banking, insurance, swaps dealing, and hedge fund and private equity activities.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-vote-against-omnibus-spending-bill", "Cantwell Statement on Vote Against Omnibus Spending Bill", "2014-12-14", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on Vote Against Omnibus Spending Bill  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) issued the following statement after voting against the omnibus government spending bill. The Senate approved the legislation by a 56-40 margin.\r\nI strongly oppose the derivatives provision of this bill, which would overturn a critical component of our work on the 2010 Wall Street Reform legislation, Cantwell said. I am also opposed to the changes that would weaken protections for current retirees who depend on multi-employer pension plans.\r\nCantwell's vote was in opposition to language in the omnibus bill that repeals Section 716 of the 2010 Dodd-Frank financial reform law, known as the swaps pushout rule. Cantwell was a key proponent of Section 716, which ensures that taxpayers aren't on the hook for financial institutions that trade in complex derivatives.\r\nIn 2010, Cantwell played a leading role with Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) to ensure Section 716 was included in the Dodd-Frank legislation. The rule prohibits financial institutions that trade in derivatives from being covered through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Federal Reserve in case of failure. Cantwell fought to include provisions in the financial reform legislation that required over-the-counter derivatives to be traded on exchanges to promote transparency and ensure they are protected against losses.\r\nCantwell has long fought to protect consumers from excessive Wall Street speculation and to prevent a repeat of the 2008 financial crisis. In July 2013, Cantwell, along with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Senator John McCain (R-AZ), and Senator Angus King (I-ME), introduced the 21st Century Glass-Steagall Act. That legislation would revive financial regulations separating traditional banks with federal-insured savings and checking accounts from riskier financial institutions that offer services such as investment banking, insurance, swaps dealing, and hedge fund and private equity activities.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://delbene.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/house-passes-11-trillion-spending-bill", "House passes $1.1 trillion spending bill", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The U.S. House of Representative, after a day of backstage maneuver and a Democratic revolt, approved a $1.1 trillion spending bill for Fiscal Year 2015 on a 219-206 vote late Thursday night.\r\rA Washington congressman, set to retire after 20 years, served as the House\u2019s presiding officer as he has over the years on many close votes.\r\rRep. Doc Hastings, R-Wash., is a longtime buddy of House Speaker John Boehner, and expert at such maneuvers as keeping a vote open while House Republican leaders scramble to bring one or two members in line to eke out a narrow victory.\r\rOver two decades, Hastings as a down-the-line supporter has been entrusted by House Republican leaders with the presiding officer\u2019s chair, chairmanship of the House Ethics Committee, a key seat on the House Rules Committee, and chairmanship of the House Natural Resources Committee.\r\rThe spending bill passed over the opposition of both Tea Party Republicans and liberal Democrats including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Western Washington\u2019s U.S. Reps. Jim McDermott,\u00a0 Rick Larsen and Adam Smith.\r\rThe down-to-the-wire vote saw 162 Republicans and 57 Democrats vote for the spending bill, while 67 Republicans and 139 Democrats voted NO.\r\rThe spending bill saw an unusual alliance between President Obama and John Boehner, who denounced Obama all day and on weekends in boilerplate partisan tweets. He barely stopped Thursday night before resuming his anti-Obama cant.\r\rThe President backed the bill.\u00a0 Obama and Vice President Joe Biden made phonecalls to wavering Democrats, lining up just enough to assure passage.\u00a0 White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough was in the basement of the U.S. Capitol lobbying for the spending plan.\r\rThe Senate will debate the measure tomorrow.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m upset with certain things in the bill,\u201d said outgoing Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid in a tweet.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s not perfect. But a longer term funding is much better for our economy than a short-term funding.\u201d\r\rIn order to avert a government shutdown, both House and Senate passed two-day spending bills on Thursday night.\u00a0 This will allow the Senate time to complete debate.\u00a0 Reid and Senate leaders support the legislation.\u00a0 Liberal Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is expected to argue against it.\r\rThe $1.1 trillion package was worked out in the Senate, with Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., as a major actor.\r\rIt granted several major Republican demands, notably relaxing provisions of the Dodd-Frank bill, the 2010 Wall Street reform measure, to allow greater derivative trading by banks.\u00a0 Another provision, which aroused both liberal and Tea Party ire, would triple what wealthy givers can donate to the Republican and Democratic parties, and to party campaign committees.\r\rMurray has, however, touted provisions of the bill.\u00a0 It tightens regulation of oil trains, sets out $65 million for salmon recovery, keeps funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and holds off gutting environmental and renewable energy programs.\r\rBut Democrats in Washington\u2019s House delegation said it went overboard.\r\r\u201cReturn to government-backed gambling by Wall Street is a disgrace,\u201d ex-Obama strategist David Axelrod tweeted.\u00a0 He hastily added that the $1.1 trillion plan is better than a short-term spending bill, with Republicans allowed to write their own appropriations bill next year when they control both Houses of Congress.\r\rRep. Derek Kilmer, D-Wash., decried the last minute Wall Street and campaign spending provisions.\u00a0 \u201cPart of the reason Congress is held in such low esteem is that it does things like this,\u201d Kilmer said.\r\rAnd Rep. Suzan Del Bene, D-Wash., warned of the spending bill:\u00a0 \u201cIt contained measures that will reopen the door to taxpayer funded bailouts of Wall Street and weaken campaign finance law to give even more influence in our elections to the special interests.\r\rThe spending bill funds all federal departments but one: the Department of Homeland Security is funded only until February.\u00a0 Republicans want to find a way to thwart the immigration reform actions recently announced by President Obama.\r\r\u201cBy the House\u2019s actions, we are setting up a direct challenge to the President\u2019s unilateral actions on immigration,\u201d Boehner said in a statement.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://delbene.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/delbene-statement-on-cromnibus-vote-in-the-house", "DelBene Statement on CRomnibus Vote in the House", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Helping Our Veterans Find Jobs \r\n            November 10, 2017  \r\n            Dear Friend, Right now, too many veterans are struggling to find jobs. As workers face significant challenges adapting to a rapidly changing economy, it is essential we improve 21st century employment opportunities for those transitioning back into civilian life. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 3...\r\n            Read More \u00bb", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/elections-should-give-power-people-not-money-larsen-says-no-vote-spending-bill", "Elections Should Give Power to the People, Not to Money, Larsen Says of No Vote on Spending Bill", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, tonight voted against a government spending bill that gives the wealthy an even louder voice in elections, hurts college affordability for low- and middle-income students and destroys the pensions of more than a million hardworking Americans.\nThe U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill by a vote of 219-206. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.\n\u201cKeeping the government running for the people of our country is clearly a critical priority, but we can do that with a clean spending bill that does not hurt students, retirees and the integrity of our elections. One of my top priorities is to break down barriers so all people can participate in our economy and our democracy, and it is with that goal in mind that I voted against this bill. It contains several measures that take big steps backwards for the middle class, and this is unacceptable. We must do better by the middle class.\n\u201cI have long said that elections should give power to the people, not to money. Yet our country\u2019s political process now stands to become even more lopsidedly in favor of the wealthy. Provisions in this bill essentially destroy any limits on how much people can give to political parties. Our democracy depends on people\u2019s vote at the ballot box, not on the size of their bank accounts. I will continue to fight against harmful laws that give the wealthy an outsized influence on elections.\n\u201cI am also deeply frustrated that the bill cuts into Pell Grants, which enable millions of low- and middle-income students to afford higher education. We need to be telling our students we will invest in them. They are the future engineers, teachers, doctors, and entrepreneurs who will keep our country growing and competitive long into the future. To tell our students instead that an affordable higher education is not a priority is shortsighted and hurts our country\u2019s economic potential.\n\u201cMy vote against this bill is also a vote in favor of protecting the hard-earned pensions of retirees in the Pacific Northwest and across the country. I know some multiemployer pension plans are on rocky ground following the recession, but slashing the pensions of a million hardworking middle-class Americans goes against our values and does not create a sustainable way forward for these funds.\n\u201cA bill to fund the government should be just that \u2013 a bill to fund the government. It should not include other policy decisions like further degrading our country\u2019s campaign finance laws that House members had no opportunity to debate. My vote against this bill is a vote in favor of a plan for our country\u2019s spending that reflects our shared value of opportunity for all,\u201d Larsen said.\nDetails of the provisions that Larsen opposes include:\n Increases campaign donation limits to allow individual donors to give more than $1 million to political parties each two-year election cycle.\n\tA $303 million cut to the Pell Grant program. While the program currently runs a surplus, it is expected to start facing shortfalls in 2017.\n\tA measure that allows multiemployer pension plans to cut benefits for current retirees.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-omnibus-funding-bill-passage", "Reichert Statement on Omnibus Funding Bill Passage", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) released the following statement after the passage of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015: \"I applaud the passage of tonight\u2019s bill that will keep the government open. This bipartisan, bicameral measure will responsibly fund our nation\u2019s priorities, including measures to protect jobs, strengthen education, improve access to healthcare, rein in government overreach, and support our troops and first responders. When we return to Congress next year, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to further address the nation\u2019s challenges.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/senate-passes-reichert-alpine-lakes-legislation", "Senate Passes Reichert Alpine Lakes Legislation", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the United States Senate passed legislation from U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Senator Patty Murray to expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in Washington State and designate both the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic.\u00a0 The legislation was included as part of the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Rep. Reichert first introduced legislation to designate the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in 2007, and he has since tirelessly championed its passage in order to preserve the stunning landscape for future generations. The House passed the 2014 NDAA, with the wilderness legislation, last week.\n\u201cI am so pleased to see the Alpine Lakes legislation pass the Senate today, sending it to the President for signature to become law,\u201d said Reichert. \u201cThis has been a priority project of mine since 2007 when I first introduced it. The process has involved a lot of hard work and patience, but we came together and got it through Congress, and now it\u2019s on its way to the President\u2019s desk where it is expected to be signed into law shortly. Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area is truly one of the gems of Washington State and I am excited to see this beautiful natural and economic legacy preserved for our children and grandchildren.\u201d\nThe existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1976 and is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. Key elements of the Alpine Lakes legislation include:\n Providing the protection of the Wilderness Act of 1964 for the lower elevation lands, which will bring a richer diversity of ecosystems, including deeply forested valleys, into the wilderness area and increase its overall biodiversity. The addition of these 21,000 acres of public land into wilderness has the direct effect of protecting a broader array of outdoor recreational opportunities easily accessible for wilderness enthusiasts.\n\tDesignating the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic, which would permanently protect the rivers\u2019 free-flowing character, water quality and outstanding recreation, fisheries, wildlife, geological and ecological values. This designation provides for many recreational activities including unique backcountry hiking, kayaking, and white water rafting that is unheard of so close to a major urban center.\n Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1) is a co-sponsor of the House legislation", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8cc7a511-b89d-4bfc-a1f1-476a97dae65a", "Senate Passes Legislation to Support West Coast Fishing Jobs", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.14\n    \t\t\t Senate Passes Legislation to Support West Coast Fishing Jobs \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Provision that allows fishermen to refinance federal loans clears Congress, headed for President\u2019s signature\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA-03) applauded Senate passage of bipartisan legislation they sponsored that will help boost the West Coast groundfish fishery and protect maritime jobs.\r\nThe Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific Act (REFI Pacific Act) was included as a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, which the Senate passed Friday. Having cleared the House of Representatives December 4, the legislation now heads for President Obama\u2019s signature. Cantwell sponsored the legislation in the Senate. It was introduced in the House by Herrera Beutler and Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA-02).\r\nThe REFI Pacific Act helps fishermen by ensuring they receive the same interest rates on federal loans as other businesses, and extends the length of these loans from 30 to 45 years. In addition, the legislation caps the fees that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is able to collect from fishermen.\r\n\u201cThis is a victory for West Coast groundfish fishermen and fishing jobs in the Pacific Northwest,\u201d said Cantwell, a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard. \u201cThe ability to refinance buyback loans will provide fishermen in the West Coast groundfish fishery with flexibility to grow their businesses. I\u2019m proud to have joined Rep. Herrera Beutler in leading this bipartisan legislation through Congress.\u201d\r\n\u201cIt is great to see our bipartisan fishing jobs bill \u2013 the REFI Act \u2013 clear another hurdle and head to the President\u2019s desk,\u201d Herrera Beutler said. \u201cThis much needed relief for fishermen on the West Coast cannot come soon enough. I am grateful for Senator Cantwell\u2019s partnership on this initiative that serves the communities in Southwest Washington and all along our coast.\u201d\r\nMany fishing businesses in the West Coast groundfish fishery have struggled to pay high interest rates on federal loans, fees on their catch, and rising observer costs. The Secretary of Commerce declared the West Coast groundfish fishery a federal fisheries economic disaster in 2000 because of overcapitalization and overfishing. In 2003, Congress authorized buyback loans for the fishery to decrease fishing pressure and support a catch-share program in the fishery. These loans help eliminate overfishing by buying out the permits of fishermen willing to leave the fleet. The remaining fishermen in the fleet have since been responsible for the loans.\r\nWashington state\u2019s maritime economy as a whole supports $30 billion in economic activity and supports 148,000 jobs.\u00a0\r\nCantwell is a long-time advocate for initiatives that protect the health of the ocean\u2019s resources and coastal economies. Herrera Beutler represents communities throughout Pacific, Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties that depend on the fishing industry.\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=95a321b9-e616-40f6-b39e-461cdacf5ee5", "Senate Passes Cantwell Legislation to Preserve Hanfords B Reactor", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.14\n    \t\t\t Senate Passes Cantwell Legislation to Preserve Hanford\u2019s B Reactor  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Bipartisan provision to create Manhattan Project National Historical Park headed for President\u2019s signature\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to preserve Hanford\u2019s B Reactor as a part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park.\r\nThe provision, included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, cleared the Senate, 89 to 11, after passing the House of Representatives on December 4. Cantwell has been a leader in the Senate on the bipartisan legislation to create the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, which now heads to President Obama\u2019s desk for his signature.\r\nThe defense bill also includes other Cantwell priorities, including: a provision to transfer a surplus 1,600 acres at the Hanford site to the Tri-City Development Council for economic development, expanding the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area by 22,000 acres, and designating the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers as Wild and Scenic.\r\n\u201cCreating the Manhattan Project National Historical Park will open the doors for millions of Americans to learn about the scientific achievements made at Hanford,\u201d said Cantwell, who sponsored the Manhattan Project legislation in the Senate. \u201cPreserving the B Reactor as a National Historical Park will increase visitor access and provide a boost to the Tri-Cities tourism economy. Today\u2019s bipartisan passage of this bill is a testament to the hard work of the Tri-Cities community to preserve the region\u2019s history for future generations.\u201d\r\nThe B Reactor is currently designated as a National Historic Landmark. Elevating the B Reactor\u2019s status to a National Historical Park will ensure it will not be torn down and increase public access to the historic reactor, helping to attract more visitors to the Tri-Cities.\r\n\u201cThe historical significance of the B Reactor and the entire Manhattan Project is long overdue for national and global recognition,\u201d said Maynard Plahuta, President of the B Reactor Museum Association. \u201cThe establishment of the Park will help provide historians, researchers and academics the opportunity to more easily carry forth their work.\u201d\r\n\u201cOur community will continue to work closely with Oak Ridge and Los Alamos to build this new National Park into a national historic treasure that will create jobs, increase visitor spending and recognize the 100,000 plus incredible men and women who in 1943 built the towns, buildings and equipment that initiated the beginning of the Nuclear Age,\u201d said Kris Watkins, President and CEO of Visit Tri-Cities Washington.\r\nThe National Historical Park designation gives Hanford sites the same status as Independence Hall, Valley Forge and Abraham Lincoln\u2019s birthplace. It will also would help promote the site for tourism, which supports local businesses. More than 7 million people visited Washington\u2019s national parks in 2013, which pumped $430 million into surrounding communities and supported 5,269 jobs, according to a recent National Park Service report.\r\n\u201cThe passage of the legislation is just the beginning for the significant impact this will have on the City of Richland as thousands of visitors will come to learn about the history of our region,\u201d said David Rose, Mayor of Richland. \u201cThis designation will raise national interest and bring more people to the region bringing economic benefit with the increase in tourism.\u201d\r\n\u201cI have been a business owner in Washington for over 20 years and I know that making the B Reactor part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park will be very beneficial to tourism, economic development and to businesses throughout Washington state,\u201d said Aaron Burks, owner of the Atomic Ale Brewpub & Eatery in Richland. \u201cThis increase in tourism will bring a significant number of additional customers into our restaurants, which will allow us to drive additional sales, jobs, purchases and tax revenue. There is no doubt that we should preserve this national treasure for generations to come.\u201d\r\n\u201cWe believe that it is important for future generations to understand the amazing accomplishments of residents of our communities,\u201d said Steve Young, Mayor of Kennewick.\r\n\u201cThe National Parks Service is entrusted to tell the history of our country,\u201d said Pam Larsen, Executive Director of the Hanford Communities.\u00a0 \u201cTheir partnership with the Department of Energy will raise national interest in historic tourism which will bring people to our region to see the Hanford site. The economic benefit of increasing the opportunity for tours will benefit businesses throughout the region.\u201d\r\nCantwell, along with Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) introduced the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act in May 2013, which will preserve historic sites at Hanford, as well as Manhattan Project-related sites at Los Alamos, New Mexico, and Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Tom Udall (D-NM), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) were cosponsors of the original legislation.\u00a0 Congressman Doc Hastings (R-WA-04) introduced a similar bill in the House.\r\nSince 2003, Cantwell has advocated for the historic preservation of Hanford\u2019s B Reactor, the world\u2019s first full-scale plutonium production reactor. Cantwell and Murray cosponsored bipartisan legislation that was signed into law in 2004 directing the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct a study on the potential for developing and utilizing the B Reactor and other key historic sites on the Hanford complex.\r\n\u201cThanks to the tireless efforts of Senators Cantwell and Murray and Representative Doc Hastings, the National Park Service may soon open the doors to the world\u2019s first full-scale nuclear reactor,\u201d said Carl Adrian, President and CEO of the Tri-City Development Council. \u201cShrouded in secrecy for nearly 70 years, B Reactor is an incredible scientific and engineering feat and the public will soon be able to see for themselves what was accomplished in only 13 months.\u00a0 There is a compelling story in B Reactor not only from the standpoint of technology, but also from a personal perspective for those who worked at Hanford and those who farmed the land until 1943.\u201d\r\nAlong with establishing the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, the NDAA legislation also approves the transfer of 1,641 acres of land from the Hanford site to the Tri-Cities Development Council for use as an industrial park. Cantwell has worked over the last few years to urge the Department of Energy to transfer the surplus land -- which is adjacent to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the Port of Benton Manufacturing Mall, and the Tri-Cities Research District -- to use for economic development.\r\n\u201cOur community is now looking forward to the time we have this 1,641 acres available to actively begin marketing the land for future economic development and growth for the Tri-Cities,\u201d said Carl Adrian, President and CEO of the Tri-City Development Council.\r\n\u201cCongratulations to all the community stakeholders and leadership that have worked so hard to make the national park a reality,\u201d said Scott D. Keller, Executive Director of the Port of Benton.\u00a0 \u201cWhat an incredible effort that will benefit our region and state for generations.\u00a0 We are also thrilled that the land transfer was complete, as this is a key element of the Port of Benton and City of Richland\u2019s economic development diversification efforts.\u201d\r\n\u201cRichland is very excited about the provision in the National Defense Authorization Act that will release 1,641 acres of unneeded land from the Hanford site for economic development and public use,\u201d said David Rose, the Mayor of Richland. \u201cThe transfer of this property to our local Community Reuse Organization will help facilitate the growth of the local economy and create new jobs.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-cantwell-legislation-to-preserve-hanfords-b-reactor", "Senate Passes Cantwell Legislation to Preserve Hanfords B Reactor", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.14\n    \t\t\t Senate Passes Cantwell Legislation to Preserve Hanford's B Reactor  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Bipartisan provision to create Manhattan Project National Historical Park headed for President's signature\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, the U.S. Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to preserve Hanford's B Reactor as a part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park.\r\nThe provision, included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, cleared the Senate, 89 to 11, after passing the House of Representatives on December 4. Cantwell has been a leader in the Senate on the bipartisan legislation to create the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, which now heads to President Obama's desk for his signature.\r\nThe defense bill also includes other Cantwell priorities, including: a provision to transfer a surplus 1,600 acres at the Hanford site to the Tri-City Development Council for economic development, expanding the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area by 22,000 acres, and designating the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers as Wild and Scenic.\r\nCreating the Manhattan Project National Historical Park will open the doors for millions of Americans to learn about the scientific achievements made at Hanford, said Cantwell, who sponsored the Manhattan Project legislation in the Senate. Preserving the B Reactor as a National Historical Park will increase visitor access and provide a boost to the Tri-Cities tourism economy. Today's bipartisan passage of this bill is a testament to the hard work of the Tri-Cities community to preserve the region's history for future generations.\r\nThe B Reactor is currently designated as a National Historic Landmark. Elevating the B Reactor's status to a National Historical Park will ensure it will not be torn down and increase public access to the historic reactor, helping to attract more visitors to the Tri-Cities.\r\nThe historical significance of the B Reactor and the entire Manhattan Project is long overdue for national and global recognition, said Maynard Plahuta, President of the B Reactor Museum Association. The establishment of the Park will help provide historians, researchers and academics the opportunity to more easily carry forth their work.\r\nOur community will continue to work closely with Oak Ridge and Los Alamos to build this new National Park into a national historic treasure that will create jobs, increase visitor spending and recognize the 100,000 plus incredible men and women who in 1943 built the towns, buildings and equipment that initiated the beginning of the Nuclear Age, said Kris Watkins, President and CEO of Visit Tri-Cities Washington.\r\nThe National Historical Park designation gives Hanford sites the same status as Independence Hall, Valley Forge and Abraham Lincoln's birthplace. It will also would help promote the site for tourism, which supports local businesses. More than 7 million people visited Washington's national parks in 2013, which pumped $430 million into surrounding communities and supported 5,269 jobs, according to a recent National Park Service report.\r\nThe passage of the legislation is just the beginning for the significant impact this will have on the City of Richland as thousands of visitors will come to learn about the history of our region, said David Rose, Mayor of Richland. This designation will raise national interest and bring more people to the region bringing economic benefit with the increase in tourism.\r\nI have been a business owner in Washington for over 20 years and I know that making the B Reactor part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park will be very beneficial to tourism, economic development and to businesses throughout Washington state, said Aaron Burks, owner of the Atomic Ale Brewpub & Eatery in Richland. This increase in tourism will bring a significant number of additional customers into our restaurants, which will allow us to drive additional sales, jobs, purchases and tax revenue. There is no doubt that we should preserve this national treasure for generations to come.\r\nWe believe that it is important for future generations to understand the amazing accomplishments of residents of our communities, said Steve Young, Mayor of Kennewick.\r\nThe National Parks Service is entrusted to tell the history of our country, said Pam Larsen, Executive Director of the Hanford Communities. Their partnership with the Department of Energy will raise national interest in historic tourism which will bring people to our region to see the Hanford site. The economic benefit of increasing the opportunity for tours will benefit businesses throughout the region.\r\nCantwell, along with Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) introduced the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act in May 2013, which will preserve historic sites at Hanford, as well as Manhattan Project-related sites at Los Alamos, New Mexico, and Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Tom Udall (D-NM), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) were cosponsors of the original legislation. Congressman Doc Hastings (R-WA-04) introduced a similar bill in the House.\r\nSince 2003, Cantwell has advocated for the historic preservation of Hanford's B Reactor, the world's first full-scale plutonium production reactor. Cantwell and Murray cosponsored bipartisan legislation that was signed into law in 2004 directing the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct a study on the potential for developing and utilizing the B Reactor and other key historic sites on the Hanford complex.\r\nThanks to the tireless efforts of Senators Cantwell and Murray and Representative Doc Hastings, the National Park Service may soon open the doors to the world's first full-scale nuclear reactor, said Carl Adrian, President and CEO of the Tri-City Development Council. Shrouded in secrecy for nearly 70 years, B Reactor is an incredible scientific and engineering feat and the public will soon be able to see for themselves what was accomplished in only 13 months. There is a compelling story in B Reactor not only from the standpoint of technology, but also from a personal perspective for those who worked at Hanford and those who farmed the land until 1943.\r\nAlong with establishing the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, the NDAA legislation also approves the transfer of 1,641 acres of land from the Hanford site to the Tri-Cities Development Council for use as an industrial park. Cantwell has worked over the last few years to urge the Department of Energy to transfer the surplus land -- which is adjacent to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the Port of Benton Manufacturing Mall, and the Tri-Cities Research District -- to use for economic development.\r\nOur community is now looking forward to the time we have this 1,641 acres available to actively begin marketing the land for future economic development and growth for the Tri-Cities, said Carl Adrian, President and CEO of the Tri-City Development Council.\r\nCongratulations to all the community stakeholders and leadership that have worked so hard to make the national park a reality, said Scott D. Keller, Executive Director of the Port of Benton. What an incredible effort that will benefit our region and state for generations. We are also thrilled that the land transfer was complete, as this is a key element of the Port of Benton and City of Richland's economic development diversification efforts.\r\nRichland is very excited about the provision in the National Defense Authorization Act that will release 1,641 acres of unneeded land from the Hanford site for economic development and public use, said David Rose, the Mayor of Richland. The transfer of this property to our local Community Reuse Organization will help facilitate the growth of the local economy and create new jobs.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-legislation-to-support-west-coast-fishing-jobs", "Senate Passes Legislation to Support West Coast Fishing Jobs", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.14\n    \t\t\t Senate Passes Legislation to Support West Coast Fishing Jobs \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Provision that allows fishermen to refinance federal loans clears Congress, headed for President's signature\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA-03) applauded Senate passage of bipartisan legislation they sponsored that will help boost the West Coast groundfish fishery and protect maritime jobs.\r\nThe Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific Act (REFI Pacific Act) was included as a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, which the Senate passed Friday. Having cleared the House of Representatives December 4, the legislation now heads for President Obama's signature. Cantwell sponsored the legislation in the Senate. It was introduced in the House by Herrera Beutler and Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA-02).\r\nThe REFI Pacific Act helps fishermen by ensuring they receive the same interest rates on federal loans as other businesses, and extends the length of these loans from 30 to 45 years. In addition, the legislation caps the fees that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is able to collect from fishermen.\r\nThis is a victory for West Coast groundfish fishermen and fishing jobs in the Pacific Northwest, said Cantwell, a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard. The ability to refinance buyback loans will provide fishermen in the West Coast groundfish fishery with flexibility to grow their businesses. I'm proud to have joined Rep. Herrera Beutler in leading this bipartisan legislation through Congress.\r\nIt is great to see our bipartisan fishing jobs bill  the REFI Act  clear another hurdle and head to the President's desk, Herrera Beutler said. This much needed relief for fishermen on the West Coast cannot come soon enough. I am grateful for Senator Cantwell's partnership on this initiative that serves the communities in Southwest Washington and all along our coast.\r\nMany fishing businesses in the West Coast groundfish fishery have struggled to pay high interest rates on federal loans, fees on their catch, and rising observer costs. The Secretary of Commerce declared the West Coast groundfish fishery a federal fisheries economic disaster in 2000 because of overcapitalization and overfishing. In 2003, Congress authorized buyback loans for the fishery to decrease fishing pressure and support a catch-share program in the fishery. These loans help eliminate overfishing by buying out the permits of fishermen willing to leave the fleet. The remaining fishermen in the fleet have since been responsible for the loans.\r\nWashington state's maritime economy as a whole supports $30 billion in economic activity and supports 148,000 jobs.\r\nCantwell is a long-time advocate for initiatives that protect the health of the ocean's resources and coastal economies. Herrera Beutler represents communities throughout Pacific, Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties that depend on the fishing industry.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=5ff66a36-50a2-49e0-aa8d-9765bffce5c7", "Senator Murrays Statement on Senate Committee Leadership Change", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C\u2014Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on her intention to serve as Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee when the new Congress convenes in January. Senator Murray served as Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee this past Congress and will continue to serve as a senior member of that Committee. \r\n\u201cI look forward to continuing my work on a Committee that does so much to impact policies that define who we are as a nation, what we value, and what we are doing to help all workers, families, and children succeed. \r\n\u201cI approach this new role the way I have approached my work representing Washington state families throughout my career. I will fight as hard as I can to make sure that that the voices, values, and priorities of students, workers and families, are heard loud and clear. I will work every day to be a voice for those who too often struggle to be heard in our nation\u2019s capital.\u00a0 I will never give on my core principles and values, and I will never stop fighting to make government work better for families and communities, but I will always look for ways to find common ground and get results for the people I represent.\r\n\u201cI plan to work with incoming-Chairman Alexander and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure that our country is doing everything possible to create jobs and economic growth that benefits all families, not just the wealthiest few. I am hopeful that this Committee can work together to tackle some of the most critical issues facing families in Washington state and across the country, like reforming the broken No Child Left Behind law, reducing the crushing burden of student loan debt, investing in early education, continuing to improve health care access and affordability, and fighting for higher wages, better jobs, secure retirement, and better working conditions for all workers and all families.\r\n\u201cMaking progress on these priorities will take continued bipartisanship, but I believe the work we did to pass a bipartisan budget deal last year showed that Democrats and Republicans can come together on challenging issues and deliver results. Our budget deal moved our country away from years of manufactured crises and helped to restore critical investments in education, research, infrastructure, and jobs. And I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure our federal budget puts jobs and economic growth first, invests in Washington state priorities, and is fair for families and communities.\r\n\u201cIn my time on this Committee, I have served under Chairmen who have done so much to improve the lives of millions of people across the country. Chairman Harkin has left a strong legacy of accomplishments that will live on and serve as a foundation for continued work. And Chairman Kennedy was a passionate and unmatched advocate, visionary, and leader who was a mentor to me and a great example of a legislator who knew how to lay out his vision with strength and clarity, and then work toward compromise and common ground.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=c7f21d69-4496-4353-9724-223b893e72f7", "Senator Murrays Statement on NLRB Rule", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2014Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pension Committee released the following statement after the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) released its final rule to simplify, streamline, and expedite workers\u2019 ability to voice their desire to be represented for the purpose of collectively bargaining with their employer. \r\n\u201cOur country is strongest when all workers and families benefit from economic growth, not just the wealthiest few\u2014and when we protect workers\u2019 rights under the law to stand together and bargain for better wages and working conditions. That is why I strongly support the NLRB\u2019s continued work to make sure that workers across the country are treated fairly in labor elections and that their right to collective bargaining is guaranteed. These commonsense reforms bring the Board\u2019s election process into the modern age, substantially streamline overly bureaucratic burdens put in place over the years, and are a strong step in the right direction.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://delbene.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-delbene-applauds-fcc-vote-to-increase-funding-for-internet", "Congresswoman DelBene Applauds FCC Vote to Increase Funding for Internet Access and Wi-Fi in Schools", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Helping Our Veterans Find Jobs \r\n            November 10, 2017  \r\n            Dear Friend, Right now, too many veterans are struggling to find jobs. As workers face significant challenges adapting to a rapidly changing economy, it is essential we improve 21st century employment opportunities for those transitioning back into civilian life. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 3...\r\n            Read More \u00bb", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://dennyheck.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/heck-statement-on-cromnibus", "Heck Statement on the "CRomnibus"", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Below is a statement from Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) following the vote on H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act for FY 2015, which passed yesterday by a vote of 219-216:\n\u201cAdding unfavorable policies into the 1,603-page collective appropriations bill at the last minute is not the right way to force its passage. The funding levels are reasonable and were reached through bipartisan collaboration. The random add-ons, what we call \u2018policy riders,\u2019 are irresponsible and egregious. I voted no because the people of the 10th Congressional District don\u2019t believe in sneak tactics, especially attempts to buy more elections with a tenfold increase in campaign contribution limits.\n\u201cWe can\u2019t keep letting our basic responsibilities as Members of Congress plague our ability to make progress. We have big picture issues that need solutions. We need to use our bandwidth to tackle new challenges rather than repeating the battles of yesterday.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398488", "U.S. House Passes 2015 Funding Measure Addressing Key Southwest Washington Priorities", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Jaime Herrera Beutler", "H001056", "herrerabeutler.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 2015 government funding bill that includes several Southwest Washington priorities championed by Jaime Herrera Beutler. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 2015 government funding bill that includes several Southwest Washington priorities championed by Jaime Herrera Beutler. During passage of the bill, Jaime also secured assurances from U.S. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy that the Secure Rural Schools program that counties like Lewis, Skamania, and Cowlitz rely on for essential school and emergency services funding would be addressed as a top priority in 2015.  The priorities and spending levels in this bill are based on the multiple Appropriations bills written, debated and approved throughout 2014. As a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, Jaime helped craft these bills that have continued the overall reduction of discretionary spending by $165 billion since 2010.\u00a0 Projected out over ten years, that will save taxpayers $2.13 trillion.\n\u201cIt\u2019s vital that critical federal services aren\u2019t disrupted, and that we fund government in a way that saves taxpayer dollars and focuses on the priorities that matter to Southwest Washington residents\u2013 and this bill mostly accomplishes those goals,\u201d said Jaime. \u201cI\u2019ve fought hard to ensure that Congress maintains the ports and waterways for our coastal communities, confronts devastating wildfires, ensures Hanford cleanup can continue, and addresses other critical needs in this bill.\n\u201cThough the U.S. House has twice passed long term legislation I\u2019ve championed to responsibly fund the Secure Rural Schools program, the Senate has failed to act on these bills and now we reach year\u2019s end with our rural counties in a crisis situation.\u00a0 I will not cease in my efforts to restore this funding so that schools in Skamania County, Lewis County, and throughout rural Washington can keep operating, and I want to thank Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy for his assurances to me on the U.S. House Floor today that Congress will make Secure Rural Schools a top priority when we reconvene in 2015.\u201d\nEstablished in 2000 as a lifeline to rural communities impacted by restrictive federal forest policies, the Secure Rural Schools program provides funding for schools and emergency services in lieu of timber operation receipts. \n\n    \n        \n            \n        \n    \n\nCLICK HERE TO WATCH JAIME\nSPEAKING ON SECURE RURAL SCHOOLS \nSouthwest Washington priorities included in the bill: Saving taxpayer dollars:  The bill continues the trend of saving taxpayer dollars, contributing to the $165 billion in savings through the Appropriations process since FY 2010. Specifically, the bill:   \n\u00a0 \u2022\tReduces the IRS budget to pre-2008 levels for a savings of $345 million;   \n\u00a0 \u2022\tRescinds $40 million in \u201cperformance bonuses\u201d within the VA;   \n\u00a0 \u2022\tProvides no new funding for the President\u2019s health care law and makes $10 million in cuts to the controversial, unaccountable, unelected Independent Payment Advisory Board charged with cutting Medicare for seniors;   \n\u00a0 \u2022\tCuts the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s budget through staff reductions. Accountability for executive overreach: \u200bWhile most of the federal government budgets overseen by the Appropriations Committee are funded in this bill through September 30, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security is only funded through February 27, 2015. This is an initial response to the President\u2019s unilateral action on immigration \u2013 a move that, by his own admission, exceeds his constitutional authority. The short term funding window aims to give Congress time to confront the President\u2019s action and more adequately address the nation\u2019s broken immigration system. Dredging and harbor maintenance: Jaime was able to secure $1.1 billion in harbor maintenance from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) with $42 million of the HMTF designated specifically for small ports like Ilwaco, Chinook and others along the Columbian River. Background: The HMTF was created with the purpose of waterway and port maintenance and is funded by a tax importers pay when using U.S. ports. Historically the fund takes in millions of dollars more each year than is expended. The bill also provides over $25 million for maintenance on the mouth of the Columbia River, including critical jetty rehabilitation.   Wildfire prevention: Wildfires have been increasing in severity over the past several years, damaging forests, threatening safety, and forcing the Forest Service to tap into its budget for other services and priorities. The bill includes $3.5 billion for wildfire suppression and $526 million for hazardous fuel management.  The bill also calls for active forest management to prevent wildfires by reducing the fuel load and creating healthier forest and more robust species habitat. Hanford clean-up: The bill restores $25 million not included in the President\u2019s budget toward cleanup projects at the Hanford nuclear site. Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT): The bill includes $422 million for payments to counties with large portions of land owned by the federal government. These funds help offset the loss of property tax income that pays for education, emergency services, county road maintenance, and other critical services in Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Lewis, Pacific, and Skamania Counties.  Strengthens justice and law enforcement programs: The bill provides $42,250,000, an increase of $28,000,000 from FY14, to combat human trafficking\u2014creating a special task force within the FBI to combat sex trafficking and broadening collaboration between across all agencies under Department of Justice. The bill also increases funds for drug courts based on their proven effectiveness in reducing recidivism, substance abuse, and crime among non-violent offenders; strengthens mentally ill offender programs; increases funding to strengthen domestic violence programs; and increases funding to address the backlog in processing sexual assault kits nationwide.   Continued commitment to strong salmon recovery: Jaime was successful in maintaining the $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund (PCSRF) that she fought for earlier this year. PCRSF provides critical funding for recovery and sustainability projects to improve wild salmon and steelhead habitats on the Columbia River and throughout the western U.S.  Since the program\u2019s inception, over 11,800 PCSRF projects have been implemented, providing fish passage and restoring habitat to strengthen salmon recovery efforts.  \nCommunity development grants protected: The President\u2019s budget proposed additional requirements to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program that would make it harder for smaller communities to get CDBG grants.  Jaime worked successfully to eliminate these requirements in the bill.   Forest Road Maintenance and Construction: The bill would direct the U.S. Forest Service to maintain forest roads in a way that preserves recreational opportunity and reduces costs.  Currently, the Forest Service cannot adequately maintain 4,078 miles of road and 115 road bridges in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.  Many of these roads pose safety, environmental and public health threats that must be addressed.  This bill would direct the Forest Service to close and stabilize the roads as opposed to permanently decommissioning them.  Along with the recreational opportunities and taxpayer savings created by this provision, access for firefighting and future forest management would still be available. Safety Regulations for Oil Trains: As a member of the Transportation Appropriations subcommittee, Jaime successfully fought to include important safety regulations for oil trains in that bill. It requires the U.S. Department of Transportation to issue a final rule for new tank car design standards by January 15, 2015, requires rail carriers to develop comprehensive oil spill response plans and improves the safety of railroad grade crossings.  Aquatic Invasive Species: The nonnative quagga and zebra mussels have severely damaged freshwater ecosystems in the Northeast and Southwest U.S. This bill provides $4 million for containment, prevention, and enforcement to prevent the spread of these invasive species to uncontaminated bodies of water throughout Washington state.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=0c62c675-1a01-4d45-a5a6-9199e4a7f1df", "EDUCATION: Murray Applauds Federal Aid Extension for Schools in Tribal, Military Communities", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Annual defense bill, which includes three year extension of Impact Aid funding, set to pass both chambers of Congress \r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after the Senate voted to break a filibuster on the Defense Authorization bill, which includes a three year extension of Impact Aid provisions. Impact Aid funding is provided to school districts that educate a significant number of federally-connected children, such as those that live on military bases or reservations. \r\n\u201cI was proud to fight for these provisions that will give students and schools in in our military and tribal communities across Washington state the federal support and stability they deserve,\u201d \u00a0said Senator Murray. \u201cI heard from so many parents, teachers, and administrators in these communities about how important this funding source is for their students, and I am going to keep working to make sure the federal government is investing in education and doing \r\nThe extension also includes language to expedite the Impact Aid funding allocation process. Currently, many school districts are still waiting for Impact Aid that was appropriated as long as five years ago, forcing schools to tighten budgets and increase the burden on local taxpayers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=5b7cb97b-b700-451a-8bb3-0fafae57c651", "Murray Statement on Washington State Public Lands Bills", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Murray: a \u201chistoric day\u201d for WA and \u201cprotecting the natural treasures we love\u201d\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after the Senate voted to break a filibuster on the Defense Authorization bill, which included legislation she authored to protect Illabot Creek and the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers and expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The legislation passed the House last week and will head to the White House shortly to be signed into law by President Obama. \r\n\u201cFor everyone in Washington state who cherishes our incredible wild spaces, this is a truly historic day,\u201d said Senator Murray.\u00a0 \u201cThis isn\u2019t simply about protecting the natural treasures we love, it\u2019s about passing them along to our children, our grandchildren, and generations of Washingtonians to come.\u201d \r\nWashington state bills that will pass both chambers of Congress include:\r\n\r\nFollowing a long-fought victory to create the Wild Sky\u00a0Wilderness in 2008, Senator Murray continued her efforts to help protect some of Washington state\u2019s best wild places.\u00a0 She first introduced legislation to protect Illabot Creek, a tributary of the Skagit River and critically important habitat for many species, including five species of salmon, steelhead, Roosevelt elk, and Bald eagles, \u00a0in 2009.\u00a0 Congressman Larsen introduced companion legislation in the House the same year.\u00a0 Legislation has been introduced in the House and Senate in the 111th, 112th, and 113th Congresses, and has faced partisan opposition in the past. \r\nMurray held meetings with stakeholders and a public workshop early in 2009 to discuss the Alpine Lakes wilderness proposal and hear local community input on the legislation.\u00a0 As a result of those meetings, Senator Murray introduced new legislation in the Senate, including the addition of Wild and Scenic designation protections for the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River, which both the House and Senate versions now contain.\u00a0 Legislation has been introduced in the House and Senate in the 111th, 112th, and 113th Congresses and has faced partisan opposition in the past.\r\nSen. Murray also worked earlier this year to pass the Green Mountain Lookout bill after a mudslide ravaged communities in northern Snohomish County.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pattyinnews?ContentRecord_id=a8ec1153-4e64-4914-8b45-01a096457786", "Sen. Murray writes anti-gang language into spending bill that should benefit Yakima", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Brian Teegarden \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\r\nThe senator said she wrote the language into the bill to make sure that communities like Yakima will get the federal help they need to fight gang activity.\r\nThe language, which was first written by Senator Murray earlier this year, will require the Department of Justice to review the criteria by which it awards grants relating to gang violence and prevention. In recent months, community and law enforcement leaders in the Yakima area have raised concerns to Senator Murray that they are not getting the federal funding they need to address gang-related violence. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days and be signed into law.\r\n \r\n\u201cI fought hard for this language to help communities like Yakima access the federal resources they need to fight gang violence and keep local families safe, and I am proud that it was included in this bipartisan House-Senate compromise bill,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard and their priorities were represented as this bill was written.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n \r\nSenator Murray\u2019s previous work on the Yakima Gang Initiative has already led to important local anti-gang efforts, including funding for the Yakima Gang Commission.\r\nRead More: Senator Murray Writes Anti-Gang Language Into Spending Bill That Should Benefit Yakima | http://newstalkkit.com/senator-murray-writes-anti-gang-language-into-spending-bill-that-should-benefit-yakima/?trackback=tsmclip\r\n\r\nThe senator said she wrote the language into the bill to make sure that communities like Yakima will get the federal help they need to fight gang activity.\r\nThe language, which was first written by Senator Murray earlier this year, will require the Department of Justice to review the criteria by which it awards grants relating to gang violence and prevention. In recent months, community and law enforcement leaders in the Yakima area have raised concerns to Senator Murray that they are not getting the federal funding they need to address gang-related violence. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days and be signed into law.\r\n \r\n\u201cI fought hard for this language to help communities like Yakima access the federal resources they need to fight gang violence and keep local families safe, and I am proud that it was included in this bipartisan House-Senate compromise bill,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard and their priorities were represented as this bill was written.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n \r\nSenator Murray\u2019s previous work on the Yakima Gang Initiative has already led to important local anti-gang efforts, including funding for the Yakima Gang Commission.\r\nRead More: Senator Murray Writes Anti-Gang Language Into Spending Bill That Should Benefit Yakima | http://newstalkkit.com/senator-murray-writes-anti-gang-language-into-spending-bill-that-should-benefit-yakima/?trackback=tsmclip\r\n\r\nThe senator said she wrote the language into the bill to make sure that communities like Yakima will get the federal help they need to fight gang activity.\r\nThe language, which was first written by Senator Murray earlier this year, will require the Department of Justice to review the criteria by which it awards grants relating to gang violence and prevention. In recent months, community and law enforcement leaders in the Yakima area have raised concerns to Senator Murray that they are not getting the federal funding they need to address gang-related violence. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days and be signed into law.\r\n \r\n\u201cI fought hard for this language to help communities like Yakima access the federal resources they need to fight gang violence and keep local families safe, and I am proud that it was included in this bipartisan House-Senate compromise bill,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard and their priorities were represented as this bill was written.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n \r\nSenator Murray\u2019s previous work on the Yakima Gang Initiative has already led to important local anti-gang efforts, including funding for the Yakima Gang Commission.\r\nRead More: Senator Murray Writes Anti-Gang Language Into Spending Bill That Should Benefit Yakima | http://newstalkkit.com/senator-murray-writes-anti-gang-language-into-spending-bill-that-should-benefit-yakima/?trackback=tsmclip\r\n\r\nThe senator said she wrote the language into the bill to make sure that communities like Yakima will get the federal help they need to fight gang activity.\r\nThe language, which was first written by Senator Murray earlier this year, will require the Department of Justice to review the criteria by which it awards grants relating to gang violence and prevention. In recent months, community and law enforcement leaders in the Yakima area have raised concerns to Senator Murray that they are not getting the federal funding they need to address gang-related violence. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days and be signed into law.\r\n \r\n\u201cI fought hard for this language to help communities like Yakima access the federal resources they need to fight gang violence and keep local families safe, and I am proud that it was included in this bipartisan House-Senate compromise bill,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard and their priorities were represented as this bill was written.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n \r\nSenator Murray\u2019s previous work on the Yakima Gang Initiative has already led to important local anti-gang efforts, including funding for the Yakima Gang Commission.\r\nRead More: Senator Murray Writes Anti-Gang Language Into Spending Bill That Should Benefit Yakima | http://newstalkkit.com/senator-murray-writes-anti-gang-language-into-spending-bill-that-should-benefit-yakima/?trackback=tsmclip\r\nThe senator said she wrote the language into the bill to make sure that communities like Yakima will get the federal help they need to fight gang activity.The language, which was first written by Senator Murray earlier this year, will require the Department of Justice to review the criteria by which it awards grants relating to gang violence and prevention. In recent months, community and law enforcement leaders in the Yakima area have raised concerns to Senator Murray that they are not getting the federal funding they need to address gang-related violence. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days and be signed into law. \u201cI fought hard for this language to help communities like Yakima access the federal resources they need to fight gang violence and keep local families safe, and I am proud that it was included in this bipartisan House-Senate compromise bill,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard and their priorities were represented as this bill was written.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0  Senator Murray\u2019s previous work on the Yakima Gang Initiative has already led to important local anti-gang efforts, including funding for the Yakima Gang Commission.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pattyinnews?ContentRecord_id=b3ade7fc-5671-4fa1-9a72-ecda0f602448", "Federal budget bill could boost funds for anti gang efforts", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Don Meyers \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tYAKIMA, Wash. \u2014 For years Yakima Valley officials have complained the odds were stacked in favor of major cities when it came to obtaining federal funding to fight gangs.\r\nNow the final $1.1 trillion spending bill for 2015 before Congress could make it easier for Yakima County to get that much-sought federal aid.\r\nThe bill contains an amendment by Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., which was drafted with help from Yakima County officials, directing the federal Department of Justice to review how it awards grants to prevent and suppress gang violence.\r\nSpecifically, it directs the department to give stronger consideration to smaller communities with gang crime rates above the national average.\r\n\u201cWe\u2019re making some good headway (at gang suppression) in the Valley and any additional resources would be welcome,\u201d said Yakima County Commissioner Kevin Bouchey, who worked on the amendment\u2019s language with Harold Delia, the county\u2019s court consultant.\r\nGrant requests to the Justice Department on behalf of the county and the cities of Yakima, Sunnyside and Toppenish would often get high marks from federal officials, but the money would still end up going to major metropolitan areas, such as New York and San Francisco, Bouchey said.\r\nThe grants have been as much as $1.5 million, said Sean Coit, Murray\u2019s press secretary.\r\nThe amendment resulted from discussions the county began with Murray\u2019s staff about three years ago, Bouchey said.\r\nMurray\u2019s amendment directs the Justice Department to look at whether a community\u2019s gang violence rate exceeds the national average. The rate is a per-capita ratio, which allows a more accurate comparison between rural, suburban and urban communities.\r\n\u201cFor us, it puts us on a level playing field,\u201d Delia said.\r\nAdditionally, the amendment states the department should consider whether a community has established a gang commission and performed a gang assessments, which are steps Delia said Yakima County has already done.\r\nThe requirements, Delia said, ensure that a community seeking grant money is serious about reducing gang crime and already has made some progress.\r\nBouchey said the county and the three cities would use the grants not just to combat gang crime, but also to continue programs to prevent youth from joining gangs.\r\nPerry Tarrant, Yakima\u2019s Gang-Free Initiative manager, said it is important to provide assistance to small communities dealing with gang issues.\r\nHe said in many cases, gang problems in smaller communities are the result of successful gang efforts in nearby larger cities that cause gang crime to migrate to the smaller town.\r\n- Yakima Herald", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-arctic-region-cannot-be-out-sight-out-mind", "Larsen: Arctic Region Cannot Be Out of Sight, Out of Mind", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Larsen underscores importance of Arctic region at hearing; applauds final passage of Coast Guard reauthorization bill\nWASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today reiterated the significance of the Arctic region to the economy in the Pacific Northwest and the importance of the U.S. upholding its commitments as an Arctic nation. Larsen offered remarks at a subcommittee hearing of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, \u201cThe United States as an Arctic Nation: Opportunities in the High North.\u201d\n\u201cThe Arctic might be out of sight, out of mind for many, but it is part of the everyday economy in the Pacific Northwest. Our ports are often the winter home for maintenance and repair on fishing boats and other vessels that operate in the Alaskan Arctic during the warmer months.\n\u201cAs an Arctic nation, we also need to be careful stewards of the unique environment, especially as icepacks melt and open the region for additional shipping and commercial activity. And we need to be sensitive to indigenous people to protect their ways of life.\n\u201cI started the Congressional Arctic Working Group with Mr. Young from Alaska to help raise awareness about the importance of the Arctic. I appreciate this partnership and the committee\u2019s attention to Arctic issues,\u201d Larsen said.\nLarsen also applauded final passage of a Coast Guard reauthorization bill that includes several provisions he has championed, including a plan for the U.S. icebreaker fleet and improved Arctic readiness. The bill now heads to the President for signature.\n\u201cOur country faces a steep opportunity curve when it comes to the Arctic, and Congress is starting to recognize the need to improve U.S. readiness in the region. The U.S. will take over as the chair of the Arctic Council in a few months, and the commitment to the Arctic in the Coast Guard bill is a signal our country is better preparing to engage,\u201d Larsen said.\nThe bill requires the Coast Guard to come to a final decision about reactivating the Polar Sea icebreaker, which is currently mothballed in Seattle. Larsen visited the vessel earlier this year and has led efforts to preserve it. The bill also requires the Coast Guard to improve its ability to track ships in our Arctic waters, and to construct forward operating facilities in the Arctic region.\nLarsen is a leading voice in Congress to bring more attention to the Arctic and U.S. responsibilities as one of eight Arctic nations.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-opening-statement-aviation-subcommittee-hearing-%E2%80%9Cus-unmanned-aircraft-systems", "Larsen Opening Statement: Aviation Subcommittee Hearing on U.S. Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Integration, Oversight, and Competitiveness", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, the Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee, delivered the following statement at the House Transportation and Infrastructure Aviation Subcommittee\u2019s hearing, \u201cU.S. Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Integration, Oversight, and Competitiveness.\u201d The remarks are as prepared for delivery.\nThank you, Chairman LoBiondo, for calling today\u2019s hearing on \u201cU.S. Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Integration, Oversight, and Competitiveness.\u201d\nI appreciate you holding this hearing at my request.\u00a0 Safety is, and must be, the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) number-one priority. It is mine, and I know it is yours, as well.\nWe have looked at unmanned aircraft systems \u2013 or UAS \u2013 twice earlier this year, but last week\u2019s reports of numerous near-collisions between UAS and manned aircraft are a stark reminder that the FAA must be prepared to ensure UAS operations are safe\u2014both for those in the air and people on the ground. So this hearing is very timely.\nThe UAS industry has great potential to drive economic growth and create jobs, including in my district in Washington state, an epicenter of aviation R&D.\nHowever, there is no doubt that there are near-term challenges. For example, the FAA says it receives about 25 reports each month from pilots who have seen unmanned aircraft or model aircraft operating near their aircraft, including some \u201cnear collisions.\u201d\nBut we rise to challenges; we do not shrink from them. Consider these headlines with cautionary tales about aviation safety:\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Planes Crash in Air; Man Killed[1]\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Two Killed When They Crash In Air[2]\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Crash in Air Kills Two:\u00a0 Pilots Die When Two Machines Collide in Practice Flight[3]\nThese headlines are from nearly a century ago. I found more than 80 stories of this kind alone, all written before 1921. These reports could have caused the American public to give up on developing things that fly. But we didn\u2019t.\u00a0 Had we given up on commercial air travel then, we would not have the safe and efficient passenger airline system that we do today.\nWhile our \u201cnear-collision\u201d headlines reflect undeniable challenges that must be addressed, we must keep moving forward to ensure progress and competitiveness. But let me be clear:\u00a0 Integration of UAS must never come at the expense of safety.\nTo help guide this large effort, the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 set forth specific requirements and milestones for the FAA to safely integrate UAS into the national airspace system.\nWe have heard a number of concerns from industry that the FAA is not moving quickly enough.\u00a0\nThe Department of Transportation Inspector General reported in June that FAA had completed work toward nine of the milestones in the Act, but that the Agency was behind schedule on remaining milestones, including the more significant provisions.\nThe bill required the FAA to publish a rule on small UAS by August 14, 2014. We expect that rule soon. The bill also required the FAA to establish six test ranges for UAS research.\u00a0\nHowever, while those test ranges are up and running, we continue to hear from stakeholders that they are not being fully utilized.\nHowever, given the magnitude of the safety implications of incorporating this novel technology into our sophisticated and crowded airspace, we must give credit where credit is due.\u00a0 The FAA is proceeding with caution, but is making progress. \u00a0\u00a0\nFor example, section 333 of the Act also gave FAA the authority to authorize certain UAS operations on an interim basis in advance of the final rule on small UAS.\u00a0\nThe FAA has just begun using this authority and has granted several exemptions \u2013 including some just this morning. We must ensure that the agency allows prudent testing and operations to begin safely, even if on a limited basis.\u00a0\nWe have also heard concerns that other countries afford more flexible environments to test and operate UAS. While we must hold safety paramount, we do not want to fall needlessly behind. \u00a0 \u00a0\nPrivacy is another major concern that must be addressed. I share the public\u2019s concerns about the implications of aerial surveillance from UAS operators, and I will work to ensure that privacy concerns are addressed through the proper channels.\nWithin the past two years, we have seen FAA make real progress on implementing NextGen capabilities with the strong bipartisan oversight of this Subcommittee under the leadership of Chairman LoBiondo. Our work on NextGen shows us the absolute necessity of the FAA\u2019s collaboration with stakeholders\u2014especially pilots and air traffic controllers\u2014who will be directly affected by new technologies. \u00a0\nOur goal with regard to UAS integration should be to keep safe integration on track so that we are not here in 2024 talking about a plan to integrate UAS into the airspace.\nFinally, I would like to ask for unanimous consent to enter written remarks from MITRE into the record. MITRE is engaged in research and development for the FAA, and its input is critical as we look toward reauthorization.\u00a0\nI look forward to hearing from all of our panelists about where we are today and what we can do to keep the integration of UAS on track and ensure safety.\u00a0\nThank you.\u00a0\n###\n    \n\t\t[1] Wyoming State Tribune, 1917.\n\t\n\t\n\t\t[2] Trenton Evening Times, 1917.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-talks-more-2200-constituents-during-telephone-town-hall", "Larsen talks with more than 2,200 constituents during telephone town hall", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Larsen talks with more than 2,200 constituents during telephone town hall                                           \n              Dec 10, 2014      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    WASHINGTON\u2014More than 2,200 Northwest Washington residents joined a telephone town hall hosted by Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, on December 9. The focused on immigration reform, veterans issues and rail safety, as well as including more than a dozen questions from participants.\n\u201cThanks to the more than 2,200 people who joined me for my telephone town hall. I always appreciate the opportunity to talk with you about the issues that are on your mind, from immigration reform and climate change to trade issues and transportation. We might not always agree, but I always like to know the issues that are important to you,\u201d Larsen said.\nYou can listen to the hour-long telephone town hall here.\nSummary information:\n 2,264 people joined the call for an average of 15 minutes each.\n\tAbout 175 people stayed on the call for the whole hour.\n\tLarsen took 13 questions on topics including the Gateway Pacific Terminal, immigration reform, military spending, transportation and jobs, climate change, concerns about jet noise from Growlers based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, \u00a0Social Security, Russia, unions and labor, partisanship in Congress, trade and college affordability.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/pacific-northwest-members-congress-call-president-urge-ports-resolution", "Pacific Northwest Members of Congress Call on President to Urge Ports Resolution", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Members of Congress Dave Reichert (WA-8), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-5), Doc Hastings (WA-4), Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-3), Kurt Schrader (OR-5), Greg Walden (OR-2), and Mike Simpson (ID-2) sent a letter to President Obama to ask that he encourage the International Longshoreman Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association to use a federal mediator in order to bring about a swift resolution to their current contract negotiations.\nThe members said, \u201cCommunities throughout the Pacific Northwest and across the country rely on thriving ports \u2013 which support hundreds of thousands of jobs in our states \u2013 to export their products around the world. We strongly urge a swift resolution to the current contract negotiations because countless workers, farmers, consumers, businesses, and families depend on it.\u201d \u00a0\nThis is the second letter Pacific Northwest members of Congress have sent regarding the ILWU and PMA to call for a quick resolution. The first letter was sent directly to the organizations and the text can be found here.\nThe full text of the letter to the president is below.\nDear Mr. President,\nWe urge you to encourage the International Longshoremen Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) to use a federal mediator in resolving their current contract negotiations. As members who represent areas which depend on ports, we are concerned about the length of these negotiations and the resulting impact on our constituents.\nAs these negotiations continue, our ports are losing business we know will not return. This is detrimental to our ports, those who work at the ports and communities across the state. This significantly impacts the economy of the Pacific Northwest and the country as a whole. Each day, we are contacted by our constituents who are feeling the real impact of these negotiations on port operations. Efficient movement of goods is critical for all industries, including agriculture and manufacturing. Our specialty crop producers, who depend on international markets, are unable to export their products and meet customer demands. Our manufacturers face similar challenges of higher costs, lost sales, and delayed production. Across the globe, Washington state products are in demand, but our businesses are facing significant challenges in reaching these consumers.\nWe recognize the serious task before the parties. However, after over six months of negations, we strongly believe a federal mediator has become necessary. Moreover, we are increasingly concerned that there could be a shutdown at the ports as occurred in 2002. It is estimated that the previous shutdown cost our economy over a billion dollars a day. We cannot afford to let this happen.\nTo follow up on the requests made by our constituents, the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, and numerous Washington businesses, we strongly believe that a federal mediator is needed to bring a swift resolution to these contract negotiations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=302e3154-d50a-49e0-bfd9-669b89651d7f", "ENVIRONMENT/SALMON: Murray Secures Critical Investments for Washington Environmental Priorities in 2015 Spending Bill", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "2015 omnibus bill also includes funding for Land and Water Conservation Fund, Puget Sound cleanup\r\n\u00a0(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she has secured critical federal funding for Washington state in the 2015 annual spending bill, including funding for environmental priorities including Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery fund, Puget Sound cleanup, and the Land and Water Conservation Fund. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days. \r\nThe 2015 omnibus appropriations bill was made possible by the bipartisan budget deal that Senator Murray reached last December with U.S. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) that prevented another government shutdown, rolled back cuts to investments in education, research, and jobs\u2014and restored certainty to the federal budget process.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cI fought hard to make sure that we continue to make strong investments at the federal level for these important environmental issues,\u201d said Senator Murray.\u00a0 \u201cIn Washington state, protecting our natural resources is important not only for the environment, but also for our economy, and I believe these investments reflect that.\u00a0 From enhanced recreational access for existing public lands to improved habitat for wildlife, these programs will help move Washington state forward.\u201d \u00a0 \r\nA list of funding secured by Senator Murray for environment and natural resources priorities is below: \r\n \r\n$65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund (PCSRF), representing an increase of $15 million above President Obama\u2019s FY15 Budget Request in order to support state, local, and tribal programs that help improve salmon habitat.\u00a0\r\n\r\nMultiple stakeholders including Chelan County, the Yakama Nation, and the Forest Service worked together to reduce stream barriers, reconnect river channels, and conduct post-construction monitoring on Nason Creek to support spring Chinook salmon, steelhead, and bull trout.\r\nStates and Tribes have undertaken more than 10,000 projects since PCSRF was created, resulting in improvements to habitat condition and availability.\u00a0 Over 458,000 acres of upland habitat have been treated, and instream habitat improvements have been completed or are ongoing on over 2,500 stream miles. \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$28 million for Puget Sound under the EPA\u2019s Geographic Programs, an increase of $8 million above the House Appropriations bill, in order implement the Puget Sound Action Agenda to continue efforts to restore the Puget Sound ecosystem.\r\n\r\nPuget Sound is an economic driver in Washington state, and the Sound\u2019s recovery, protection, and cleanup are funded through the Geographic Programs account in EPA.\r\nThis funding provides federal leadership and supports implementation of the Puget Sound Action Agenda, a coordinated plan to recover, restore, and protect the Puget Sound watershed and relying on the coordinated efforts of tribal, business, nonprofit, local government and state agencies.\r\nThe environmental and economic future of Washington state is closely tied to the health of Puget Sound, and this money will help continue those efforts as well as support the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species. \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$40 million for Legacy Roads and Trails to address decaying roads on federal forest lands: Under the President\u2019s Budget Request, Legacy Roads and Trails were combined into Integrated Resources and Restoration.\r\n\r\nSenator Murray included language to target funds to the United States Forest Service Regions with the highest need; USFS Region 6, consisting of Washington and Oregon, contain approximately a quarter of the nation\u2019s Forest Service road miles.\r\nThis program plays an important role in protecting water quality in our upper watersheds.\r\nFish and wildlife habitat restoration is a critical benefit and LRT\u2019s road decommissions reconnect habitat, reduce road sediment in streams, and improve passage of fish to additional habitat.\r\nLRT dollars provide environmental and economic benefits in rural areas.\r\nOngoing projects in Washington National Forests, including the Okanogan-Wenatchee and the Olympic, can be completed using these funds. \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$306 million for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)to protect some of America\u2019s most treasured landscapes, enhance recreational opportunities, and support local economies.\r\n\r\nLWCF dollars have been used in projects across Washington state, and with funding this year acquisitions can be made along the Pacific Crest Trail and the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, in the upper Yakima River watershed, and to support working forests in the South Puget Sound region.\r\n2015 is the 50th Anniversary of passage of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act, and continued funding for LWCF demonstrates the lasting importance it plays in our national landscape.\r\nLand and water conservation has traditionally enjoyed broad, bipartisan support and funds have been used to acquire land, improve access for hunting, angling, and recreation, and support rural economies across the country. \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$59.5 million for Earthquake Hazards, including language to transition the earthquake early warning demonstration project into an operational capability on the West Coast.\r\n\r\nThe Puget Sound region experienced a magnitude 4.0 earthquake in September 2014; this funding will allow existing early earthquake warning efforts to expand beyond the existing pilot project locations in California while benefitting from the technological expertise and existing seismic observing networks up and down the West Coast.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4b1efe89-3388-4add-9102-2fbab0771d95", "YAKIMA: Murrays Anti-Gang Language Included in Final 2015 Spending Bill", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Murray: \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard\u201d \r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the 2015 annual federal spending bill will include language she wrote to address concerns that communities like Yakima are not getting the federal funding they need to combat gang-related violence.\u00a0 The language, which was first written by Senator Murray earlier this year, will require the Department of Justice to review the criteria by which it awards grants relating to gang violence and prevention.\u00a0 In recent months, community and law enforcement leaders in the Yakima area have raised concerns to Senator Murray that they are not getting the federal funding they need to address gang-related violence.\u00a0 The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days and be signed into law. \r\nThe 2015 omnibus appropriations bill was made possible by the bipartisan budget deal that Senator Murray reached last December with U.S. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) that prevented another government shutdown, rolled back cuts to investments in education, research, and jobs\u2014and restored certainty to the federal budget process.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cI fought hard for this language to help communities like Yakima access the federal resources they need to fight gang violence and keep local families safe, and I am proud that it was included in this bipartisan House-Senate compromise bill,\u201d said Senator Patty Murray. \u201cI heard from local families and law enforcement in Yakima who told me how important it was for them to get federal support to combat and prevent gang violence, and I went back to Washington, D.C. to make sure that their voices were heard and their priorities were represented as this bill was written.\u201d \r\nGang-related violence has been a growing problem in Yakima County and across the state in recent years, and law enforcement agencies continue to express concern that it may become even more difficult for them to fight this source of crime. Senator Murray\u2019s previous work on the Yakima Gang Initiative has already led to important local anti-gang efforts, including funding for the Yakima Gang Commission. Senator Murray continues to call on the U.S. Department of Justice to increase federal anti-gang resources for communities, like Yakima, with gang activity and violent crime rates exceeding the national average. \r\nFull text of the language included in the bill below: \r\nGang Prevention Grants and Crime Rates--The Committee remains concerned about gang activity and violent crime throughout the country, noting that Federal partnership with law enforcement is essential-not only in our largest cities, but also in suburban and rural jurisdictions, where gang activity and violent crime rates exceed national averages. To strengthen Federal partnership across all jurisdictions, the Committee directs the OJP to review the criteria by which OJP awards discretionary grants relating to gang violence and prevention under the State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance and Juvenile Justice Programs on a per capita basis, of applicant cities and jurisdictions where gang activity and violent crime rates exceed national averages. The Committee encourages the OJP to report on the relative success rate of awards granted to applicant cities and jurisdictions with disproportionately high gang and violent crime activity, including the murder rates of those cities and jurisdictions. The report should also consider the relative success rate of applicant cities and jurisdictions that have an established gang commission or community planning body, have completed the Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention [OJJDP] gang assessment, and have consulted with or received technical assistance from the OJJDP National Gang Center regarding gang initiatives in the community.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=a51e05e9-b4db-4c7e-bff2-d4bda7458f96", "VIDEO: HANFORD: Murray Restores Millions in Hanford Budget Cuts in 2015 Spending Bill", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Murray: \u201cI stood up and fought back\u201d after Administration proposed cuts to Hanford cleanup \r\n\u201cA critical win for Hanford and our entire state\u201d \r\nVIDEO: Earlier this year, Murray pushed back on Obama Administration after they proposed nearly $100 million in Hanford cuts\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she has secured critical federal funding for Washington state in 2015, including over $2 billion for Hanford cleanup. Earlier this year, Sen. Murray expressed strong concern with the President\u2019s 2015 budget proposal, which included millions in Hanford cuts, and pushed to restore the funding levels in the spending bill released last night. The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days. \r\nThe 2015 omnibus appropriations bill \u00a0was made possible by the bipartisan budget deal that Senator Murray reached last December with U.S. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) that prevented another government shutdown, rolled back cuts to investments in education, research, and jobs\u2014and restored certainty to the federal budget process.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cI stood up and fought back after the Administration\u2019s budget included millions in cuts to Hanford funding, and I am so proud that this bill restores those critical investments,\u201d said Senator Murray.\u00a0 \u201cI have made it clear that I expect the federal government to meet its legal obligations and milestones at defense environmental cleanup sites, particularly Hanford.\u00a0 This cleanup work is one of Washington state\u2019s most important environmental priorities, and while this funding is another step in the right direction, I am going to keep working with the community to move the Hanford cleanup project forward and I will continue fighting for the federal investments it needs.\u00a0 The funding secured in this bill is a critical \u2018win\u2019 for Hanford and our entire state.\u201d \r\nA list of Hanford funding secured by Senator Murray is below: \r\n$2.153 billion for nuclear waste cleanup at Hanford, an increase of $69.9 million above the President\u2019s FY 2015 budget request\r\n \r\n$941 million for Richland Operations, an increase of $92.9 million above the President\u2019s FY 2015 budget request and equal to the FY 2014 Omnibus Appropriations Bill\r\nCentral Plateau Remediation -- $543.5 million\r\nRiver Corridor and Other Cleanup Operations -- $377.8 million\r\nRichland Operations Community & Regulatory Support -- $19.7 million\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n\u00a0$1.212 billion for Office of River Protection, a decrease of $23 million from the President\u2019s FY 2015 budget request\r\nWaste Treatment Plant -- $667 million\r\nTank Farm Activities -- $545 million \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$2.6 million for Fast Flux Test Reactor Facility (WA)", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=b4f71c25-b4f4-4ea6-893b-8d0fbbedac8f", "WORKFORCE/HIGHER ED: Murray-Authored Provision to Expand Education, Retraining Included in 2015 Spending Bill", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the Ability to Benefit provision will be included in the annual spending bill.\u00a0 The provision restores Pell Grant eligibility to adult students without a high school diploma who are enrolled in adult and post-secondary education, as part of a career pathway program. Ability to Benefit increases opportunities for low-income adults seeking new skills and job re-training, and helps reduce the skills gap. \r\n\u201cThe \u2018ability to benefit\u2019 provisions have been key to the success of integrated education and training programs, which we\u2019ve seen firsthand from programs like I-BEST in my home state of Washington,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cIncluding this provision is an important statement from Congress that we remain focused on strong, proven career pathways programs that help men and women seeking new skills, new jobs, and new opportunities to succeed in this country.\u201d \r\nHistorically, Pell Grants have been available to adults enrolled in career pathway programs, but that federal funding was cut in 2012, prompting Senator Murray to first introduce legislation to reinstate it. Recent studies show that these investments are especially important for low-income students and that students in these programs outperform those in similar programs in earning college credits and certificates, and in persisting to program completion and good jobs.\u00a0 To qualify for aid, adults students must demonstrate their \u201cability to benefit\u201d from postsecondary education. \r\nWashington state\u2019s Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training Program (I-BEST) is a national model for programs to help students build job skills and attain degrees and credentials. Models based on I-BEST are now used in dozens of states around the country, and have been shown to increase post-secondary completion by streamlining basic education skills with job-training.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=d74eef27-4e41-4d55-a1a3-5e85ae27e4a3", "OIL TRAINS/TRANSPORTATION: In 2015 Spending Bill, Murray Includes Safety Measures for Oil Trains, Directs Investments to Seattle, Vancouver, Walla Walla, and Pullman", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Spending bill made possible by two-year budget agreement negotiated by Senator Murray and Congressman Paul Ryan \r\n(Washington, D.C.)\u00a0 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), announced that she has secured critical federal funding for transportation projects and housing programs in Washington state in the 2015 government funding bill released last night.\u00a0 The bill is expected to pass the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days. \r\nThe 2015 omnibus appropriations bill was made possible by the bipartisan budget deal that Senator Murray reached last December with U.S. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) that prevented another government shutdown, rolled back cuts to investments in education, research, and jobs\u2014and restored certainty to the federal budget process.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cFrom protecting communities across Washington state against the impacts of increasing oil train traffic to investing in transit projects in Seattle and airport construction projects in Walla Walla and Pullman, the 2015 transportation bill includes significant wins for Washington state,\u201d said Senator Murray.\u00a0 \u201cTo support Eastern Washington communities like Pullman and Walla Walla, we\u2019ve changed the federal airport funding program to save several local airports millions of dollars in infrastructure costs.\u00a0 In Seattle, we\u2019ve invested nearly $90 million to complete the University Link light rail extension, and in Southwest Washington, we\u2019ve invested roughly $40 million for C-TRAN\u2019s Bus Rapid Transit system.\u00a0 These investments make a big difference for our economy, and I\u2019m proud to have fought for them in the Appropriations process.\u201d \r\n\u201cIn Washington state, we\u2019ve seen a startling increase in oil train traffic through communities of all sizes, from downtown Seattle to smaller, rural communities across the state.\u00a0 That\u2019s why I worked to set a deadline for the Department of Transportation to issue new safety standards for tank cars next month and worked to fund a Short Line Railroad Safety Institute that will help protect smaller communities without sufficient resources to respond to oil trains\u2014and I am going to stay on top of the Administration to make sure that this process moves quickly and protects the interests of Washington state families.\u201d \r\nA list of selected projects and programs that benefit Washington state secured by Senator Murray is below: \r\nOil train-related safety measures:\r\n \r\nA January 15, 2015 deadline for DOT to issue a final rule for new tank car design standards\r\nMandated comprehensive oil spill response plans for rail carriers\r\nFunding for a new Short Line Railroad Safety Institute for safety training for short line railroads transporting crude and ethanol, which Senator Murray and her Republican counterpart, Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), have called for.\r\n\r\nMap of short line railroads in Washington state\r\n$10 million for grants to improve safety at railroad grade crossings that handle crude oil or other hazardous flammable liquids\r\n15 new hazardous materials and rail safety inspectors\r\n$3 million to expand the use of automated track inspections to ensure proper track maintenance on crude oil routes, covering 14,000 miles of rack nationwide\r\nA new, web-based hazardous materials emergency response training program to help tribes and local agencies prepare for potential rail accidents involving crude oil\r\nContinued research into:\r\n\r\nThe volatility of Bakken crude oil (which is transported through Washington state)\r\nBulk tank car design standards for tank cars carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG)\r\nRetrofitting existing tank cars to meet stronger new safety standards \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nPullman/Walla Walla:\r\n \r\nChanges to the federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) that could save the Pullman-Moscow and Walla Walla airports millions of dollars in infrastructure costs.\r\n\r\nDespite serving communities in both Idaho and Washington state, the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport is only eligible for federal infrastructure investments at a Washington state-specific rate of 90% of project costs, significantly lower than the Idaho-specific rate of 93.75%.\u00a0 Senator Murray included a provision in today\u2019s bill that will allow the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport to receive more federal funding, at a rate averaged between Washington state\u2019s and Idaho\u2019s.\r\nThe Pullman \u2013 Moscow Regional Airport is currently completing an Environmental Assessment for an approximately $80 million AIP project to ensure the airport\u2019s sole runway meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design standards.\u00a0 Under the Washington state-specific federal investment rate of 90%, local cost of this project would be approximately $8 million.\u00a0 Under Senator Murray\u2019s provision, however, the local cost of improvements would be reduced significantly and the community would receive additional federal funds for the project.\r\nUnder Senator Murray\u2019s provision, the Walla Walla Regional Airport would also be eligible to receive higher rates of federal investment for infrastructure projects, because it serves communities in both Washington state and Oregon, which has the same 93.75% federal investment rate that Idaho does.\u00a0 \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nSeattle/Puget Sound:\r\n \r\n$89.7 million for the University Link light rail extension in Seattle (the final year of funding for the project).\r\nLanguage that encourages the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration to work with states, like Washington, as they plan transportation systems to better withstand the impacts of climate change.\r\nLanguage that encourages the Federal Highway Administration to track bike and pedestrian incidents and accidents as part of its Highway Safety Improvement Program.\r\nLanguage that continues to exempt King County Metro Transit from the Department of Transportation\u2019s charter bus rule. \r\n \r\nVancouver/Southwest Washington:\r\n \r\n$38.7 million for the C-TRAN Fourth Plain Bus Rapid Transit in Vancouver\r\n \r\nSpokane:\r\n \r\nChanges the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD), which Senator Murray created in 2012, to allow the Spokane Housing Authority to apply to extend the affordability of 50 units of elderly disabled housing for 40 years and replace 75 units of affordable housing with 225 new units.\r\n\r\nOther Washington state housing authorities, including those in Tacoma, Walla Walla, and the City of Kelso, could also benefit. \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nTri-Cities:\r\n \r\n$5 million for the Federal Aviation Administration Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels and Environment, co-led by Washington State University \r\n \r\nStatewide funding and programs:\r\n \r\n$597 million in highway formula funding for Washington state\r\n$500 million for the TIGER grant program, an innovative program created by Senator Murray which funds a wide variety of transportation projects in Washington state and nationwide, including roads and bridges, public transit, freight and passenger rail, ports, and bike and pedestrian trails.\u00a0\r\n\r\nPast projects in Washington state that have been awarded funding under the program include the North Spokane Corridor in Spokane, the Mercer Corridor Redevelopment project in Seattle, the South Park Bridge Replacement in King County, and improvements to 1-5 to relieve congestion around Joint Base Lewis-McChord. \r\n\r\n\r\n$227 million in transit formula funding for Washington state.\r\nLanguage to improve working relationships between FAA field offices and aviation stakeholders, including WA-based airlines.\r\nLanguage urging the Federal Highway Administration to provide timely payments from the Emergency Relief program to communities affected by recent disasters like the landslide in Oso.\r\nLanguage that encourages the Federal Highway Administration to test regional approaches to innovative finance, like the one used by the West Coast Exchange (a partnership among Washington, Oregon, California, and British Columbia).\r\nLanguage that encourages the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration to work with states, like Washington, as they plan transportation systems to better withstand the impacts of climate change.\r\nLanguage that encourages the Federal Highway Administration to track bike and pedestrian incidents and accidents as part of its Highway Safety Improvement Program.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pattyinnews?ContentRecord_id=49b08a3a-842e-4224-88b3-6b706ddf612f", "Lawmakers parse $1.1T spending bill for local impact", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Kyung Song \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tWASHINGTON \u2014\u00a0The $1.1 trillion spending bill filed by House appropriators late Tuesday likely will avert a federal government shutdown after Thursday. But lawmakers (or, more accurately, their staff) were combing through the omnibus legislation Wednesday morning to tally how much money will flow to their states.\r\nSean Coit, spokesman for Sen. Patty Murray, said the spending bills include \u201cbig wins\u201d for several of Murray\u2019s priorities. They include enhancing safety of\u00a0oil trains that are increasingly traversing through Washington, averting cuts proposed by President Obama for clean up of the Hanford nuclear reservation and a final\u00a0$89.7 million in federal funding for the University Link light rail extension in Seattle.\r\nFederal job-training grants \u2014 another of Murray\u2019s priorities \u2014 will get a slight increase to $2.6 billion, $36 million more than in fiscal 2015. But appropriators knocked $100 million off the $600 million allocated for the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants that pay for highway and public transit programs.\r\nMurray chairs the Appropriations Committee\u2019s subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. As chairwoman of the Senate Budget Committee, Murray in 2013 forged a deal with her House counterpart, Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., to lift mandatory budget cuts called sequestration for two years.\r\nThat agreement fixed the total federal discretionary spending at $1.1 trillion for fiscal 2014 and 2015. So the House spending\u00a0bills released Tuesday mostly shuffled same pot of money among 12 appropriations bills.\r\nIndeed, the most controversial parts of the so-called cromnibus bill were the host of ideological policy riders inserted by Republicans and, to lesser extent, Democrats. Among other things, Congress would nullify last month\u2019s vote by District of Columbia to legalize recreational marijuana, prevent the Air Force from retiring the A-10 attack planes to save money and raise the cap individual donors can give to national political party committees ten-fold to $324,000 each\u00a0year.\r\nThe $1.1 trillion in total spending accounts for about 30 percent of the federal budget that is discretionary. The remainder goes to mandatory programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and food stamps, plus interest on the national debt. The fiscal 2015 spending\u00a0includes $73.3 billion in war funding and for disaster relief. An additional $5.5 billion is earmarked for emergency Ebola response.\r\nThe House is expected to vote on the measure Thursday, and the Senate by week\u2019s end. The current government funding expires Thursday, so Congress likely will have to pass a short-term bill to bridge the gap.\r\nRep. Jim McDermott, a Seattle Democrat, already has announced he would vote against the spending bill. McDermott cited measures to loosen regulations on Wall Street as well as money allocated to fight the radical group ISIS, which calls itself Islamic State.\r\n- Seattle Times", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pattyinnews?ContentRecord_id=887355fa-2ce5-417f-beff-b5693c3121e8", "Bill would restore Hanford budget cut", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Annette Cary \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tA proposed cut to the Department of Energy\u2019s Hanford Richland Operations Office would be restored under a compromise federal spending bill released Tuesday night, according to the staff of Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash.\r\n\u201cThe funding secured in this bill is a critical win for Hanford and our entire state,\u201d Murray said in a statement.\r\nThe omnibus spending bill would increase the budget for Hanford this year by almost $70 million above the request by the Obama administration, for a total budget of almost $2.2 billion.\r\n\u201cFor the omnibus to get this far forward with positive news is just a testament for Patty Murray,\u201d said Gary Petersen, vice president of Hanford programs for the Tri-City Development Council.\r\nThe House and Senate still must vote on the bill, but Murray\u2019s staff said chances are good that it will pass.\r\nThe nation now is operating under temporary spending legislation after budgets were not approved before the Oct. 1 start of the current federal fiscal year.\r\nThe current continuing resolution that allows the federal government to operate expires today. But another short-term funding bill may be passed until the House and Senate can vote before the end of the current session on the new omnibus spending bill, which includes money for most federal agencies.\r\nThe compromise bill includes $941 million for the Department of Energy\u2019s Hanford Richland Operations Office, an increase of $93 million over the administration\u2019s fiscal 2015 budget request.\r\nThe office is responsible for all Hanford cleanup work except for managing radioactive waste in underground tanks and the vitrification plant being built to treat the waste.\r\nThe Hanford Office of River Protection, which is responsible for that work, would receive $1.2 billion for that work, a decrease of $23 million from the administration\u2019s budget request.\r\nHowever, that would match the current spending level at the Office of River Protection.\r\nThe omnibus spending bill is possible because of the bipartisan budget deal that Murray reached last December with Rep. Paul Ryan, the Republican chairman of the House budget committee.\r\nThe deal prevented another government shutdown and restored certainty to the federal budget process.\r\nMurray also fought to restore funding proposed to be cut at Hanford\r\n\u201cI am so proud that this bill restores those critical investments,\u201d Murray said. \u201cI have made it clear that I expect the federal government to meet its legal obligations and milestones at defense environmental cleanup sites, including Hanford.\u201d\r\nDollar amounts in the bill include: $544 million for central Hanford cleanup; $378 million for cleanup along the Columbia River and some related work; $20 million for community and regulatory support; $667 million for the vitrification plant and $545 million for the tank farms.\r\n- Tri-City Herald\r\n  Read more here: http://www.tri-cityherald.com/2014/12/10/3305247/bill-would-restore-hanford-budget.html?sp=/99/900/#storylink=cpy", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=52aabe01-329c-4c89-ba3b-75c664b40f68", "In Speech, Cantwell Urges Passage of Womens Small Business Provision in Defense Bill", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.09.14\n    \t\t\t In Speech, Cantwell Urges Passage of Women\u2019s Small Business Provision in Defense Bill \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t***VIDEO AVAILABLE***\r\n\u00a0\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, urged her colleagues to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015, which includes a provision she introduced to ensure women-owned small businesses have equal access to federal contracting.\r\nIn a speech on the Senate floor, Cantwell said the legislation \u201cwill help women entrepreneurs across the country break a glass ceiling.\u201d \r\n\u201cThere are 8 million women-owned business in the United States. But they only get a tiny percent \u2013 4 percent \u2013 of federal contracts,\u201d Cantwell said. \u201cWe want to make sure this is changed.\u201d\r\nThe House of Representatives approved the NDAA last week. It is now before the Senate for consideration.\r\nSection 825 of the NDAA would authorize federal agencies to award sole-source contracts to women-owned small businesses, giving women the same level of access to the federal contracting marketplace as other disadvantaged groups.\r\nA similar provision authorizing sole-source contracting for women was introduced in the Women\u2019s Small Business Ownership Act of 2014, which Cantwell sponsored in the Senate. It was cosponsored by Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and John Walsh (D-MT).\r\nIn July, the Senate Small Business Committee issued a report showing that women are not getting equal access to federal contracts. The federal government has set a goal of awarding 5 percent of contracts to women-owned small businesses, but that goal has never been reached. As a result, women business owners miss out on an average of $4 billion in federal contracting opportunities each year, according to the report.\r\nIn Washington state, falling short of the 5 percent goal means women business owners miss out on an average of $188 million in contracting opportunities each year, according to a separate committee report.\r\nThe NDAA legislation adopts recommendations from the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship report to provide parity for women in federal contracting.\u00a0\r\n\u201cWe heard an earful from women entrepreneurs all across America,\u201d Cantwell said in the speech. \u201cIt spurred us to take action and make major changes.\u201d\r\nSole-source contracting already is available to small businesses owned by minorities and veterans, as well as businesses located in underserved areas. Authorizing sole-source awards for women would give parity to the women-owned small business program, creating more opportunities for them to grow their businesses and create jobs.\r\n\u201cSole-source contracting allows the federal government to streamline the procurement process when selecting a company,\u201d Cantwell said. \u201cThis can be beneficial to small businesses that have the technical expertise to provide goods and services for the taxpayer, but don\u2019t have the ability to wade through the federal contracting process.\u201d\r\nThe legislation also would require the U.S. Small Business Administration to verify the ownership status of women-owned small businesses. Currently, businesses self-report whether they are owned by women when competing for federal contracts. This change will ensure that the women\u2019s contracting program benefits those for whom it was intended.\r\n\u00a0Women entrepreneurs account for just $1 out of every $23 in small business lending, despite representing 30 percent of all small companies. They are also more likely to be turned down for loans or face less favorable terms than men, according to the committee\u2019s July 23 report, 21st Century Barriers to Women\u2019s Entrepreneurship.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398496", "U.S. House Approves Veterans Suicide Prevention Bill", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Jaime Herrera Beutler", "H001056", "herrerabeutler.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Jaime Herrera Beutler joined a strong bipartisan majority of the U.S. House of Representatives today in supporting the Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Jaime Herrera Beutler joined a strong bipartisan majority of the U.S. House of Representatives today in supporting the Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. This legislation that was approved by the House addresses shortcomings in the Veterans Health Administration\u2019s mental health programs for suicide prevention, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and sexual trauma.\u00a0 \r\nFACTS: \r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 On average, 22 veterans commit suicide every day.\u00a0 \r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Between 11-20% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. \r\n\u201cFar too many Southwest Washington veterans are suffering from mental health challenges stemming from their time in service.\u00a0 Since it\u2019s clear that they\u2019re not receiving the help they desperately need, this bill is a first step to try and address this shortcoming. Every veteran we tragically lose to suicide is a veteran we have failed,\u201d said Jaime. \u201cThis nation owes its veterans access to mental health care that really works, and ongoing support to help them thrive.\u201d\u00a0 \r\nThe bill authorizes improvements to suicide prevention and mental health programs within the VA by:  \u2022\tCreating a three year pilot program to repay student loans for individuals who commit to practice psychiatric medicine with the VA. This provision is designed to address the shortage of mental health specialists within the VA.  \r\n\u2022\tCreating a pilot program for community oriented veteran peer support networks that can guide individuals transitioning from active duty back to civilian life.  \r\n\u2022\tRequiring the VA and Department of Defense to have an independent third party review their mental health care and suicide prevention programs to strengthen effectiveness and eliminate efforts that are failing to provide adequate intervention.    \r\n\u2022\tRequiring the VA to publish a website that provides veterans with a centralized, single source for information of all the VA\u2019s mental health services.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_americans_deserve_an_explanation/", "McMorris Rodgers: Americans Deserve an Explanation", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Cathy McMorris Rodgers", "M001159", "mcmorris.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u00a0\u2013 Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement today after the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held a hearing to examine the lack of transparency in the President's health care law. The hearing included testimony from Dr. Jonathan Gruber, an economist who has been recognized as one of the main architects of the President's health care law.\n\"Today's Oversight hearing further reinforced the failed implementation of the President's health care law. Obamacare architect Jonathan Gruber called the American voters 'stupid' and attributed the passage of Obamacare to 'a lack of government transparency.'\u00a0People in Eastern Washington deserve an explanation\u00a0\u2013 they deserve to know why they couldn't keep their health care plans under Obamacare. They deserve to know if Obamacare was deliberately drafted in a way that purposefully obscured its massive tax hikes from families in our community. And they deserve to know how many of their hard-earned tax dollars were being paid to Mr. Gruber and other Obamacare architects while they produced work that concealed the real impact of the health care law. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get the answers men and women in Eastern Washington deserve.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_fda_regulations_are_suffocating_eastern_washington39s_economy_and_innovation/", "McMorris Rodgers: FDA Regulations Are Suffocating Eastern Washington's Economy and Innovation", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Cathy McMorris Rodgers", "M001159", "mcmorris.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u00a0\u2013 Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement on the Food and Drug Administration\u2019s recently announced expansive menu regulations:\n\u201cThe Food and Drug Administration has acted recklessly, mandating regulations without considering the impact they will have on Eastern Washington employees, business owners, and on our local economy. Adhering to these burdensome requirements will be extremely costly \u2013 in both time and resources \u2013 for local restaurants, delivery chains, and movie theaters, and they will stifle growth at grocery stores like Yokes and Rosauers.\u00a0This proposal is one of the most expensive regulations ever\u00a0\u2013\u00a0with expected costs being over $1.2 billion with 498,508 hours of paperwork.\u00a0\n\"As local supermarkets like Rosauers innovate and grow, every deli and salad bar offering \u2013 which are constantly changing \u2013 would have to endure costly tests to provide required labeling. And for pizzerias like Domino's, every potential toppings combination \u2013 well over 5 million options \u2013 would have to be calculated and publicized. This requirement is simply not workable. Additionally, these costs and responsibilities fall not on the FDA, but instead on the shoulders of independent franchise owners. The FDA\u2019s action suffocates the innovative potential of the food industry, making it harder for local businesses to expand and grow from the bottom up. Finally, overreaching federal regulations are hitting America's middle class where it hurts the most: their wallets.\n\"These regulations go far beyond original legislative intent, epitomizing the federal government's habit of bureaucratic overreach. It is our responsibility to reverse the overbearing regulations of powerful government agencies, and represent the needs of American entrepreneurs.\u00a0I will continue to advocate for the principles contained in H.R. 1249, the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act of 2013, which include reasonable, commonsense nutritional reforms that don't hurt business owners and middle class families in Eastern Washington with unnecessary costs.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-speech-cantwell-urges-passage-of-womens-small-business-provision-in-defense-bill", "In Speech, Cantwell Urges Passage of Womens Small Business Provision in Defense Bill", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.09.14\n    \t\t\t In Speech, Cantwell Urges Passage of Women's Small Business Provision in Defense Bill \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t***VIDEO AVAILABLE***\r\n\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, urged her colleagues to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2015, which includes a provision she introduced to ensure women-owned small businesses have equal access to federal contracting.\r\nIn a speech on the Senate floor, Cantwell said the legislation will help women entrepreneurs across the country break a glass ceiling. \r\nThere are 8 million women-owned business in the United States. But they only get a tiny percent  4 percent  of federal contracts, Cantwell said. We want to make sure this is changed.\r\nThe House of Representatives approved the NDAA last week. It is now before the Senate for consideration.\r\nSection 825 of the NDAA would authorize federal agencies to award sole-source contracts to women-owned small businesses, giving women the same level of access to the federal contracting marketplace as other disadvantaged groups.\r\nA similar provision authorizing sole-source contracting for women was introduced in the Women's Small Business Ownership Act of 2014, which Cantwell sponsored in the Senate. It was cosponsored by Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and John Walsh (D-MT).\r\nIn July, the Senate Small Business Committee issued a report showing that women are not getting equal access to federal contracts. The federal government has set a goal of awarding 5 percent of contracts to women-owned small businesses, but that goal has never been reached. As a result, women business owners miss out on an average of $4 billion in federal contracting opportunities each year, according to the report.\r\nIn Washington state, falling short of the 5 percent goal means women business owners miss out on an average of $188 million in contracting opportunities each year, according to a separate committee report.\r\nThe NDAA legislation adopts recommendations from the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship report to provide parity for women in federal contracting.\r\nWe heard an earful from women entrepreneurs all across America, Cantwell said in the speech. It spurred us to take action and make major changes.\r\nSole-source contracting already is available to small businesses owned by minorities and veterans, as well as businesses located in underserved areas. Authorizing sole-source awards for women would give parity to the women-owned small business program, creating more opportunities for them to grow their businesses and create jobs.\r\nSole-source contracting allows the federal government to streamline the procurement process when selecting a company, Cantwell said. This can be beneficial to small businesses that have the technical expertise to provide goods and services for the taxpayer, but don't have the ability to wade through the federal contracting process.\r\nThe legislation also would require the U.S. Small Business Administration to verify the ownership status of women-owned small businesses. Currently, businesses self-report whether they are owned by women when competing for federal contracts. This change will ensure that the women's contracting program benefits those for whom it was intended.\r\nWomen entrepreneurs account for just $1 out of every $23 in small business lending, despite representing 30 percent of all small companies. They are also more likely to be turned down for loans or face less favorable terms than men, according to the committee's July 23 report, 21st Century Barriers to Women's Entrepreneurship.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=255fb75d-3758-41c5-af05-8ac700e4b0fc", "Senator Murrays Statement on the Release Of Report On CIA Interrogation Practices", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cAlthough there should not have been any doubt before, this report makes it even clearer that there should be no room for torture in our security programs. Torture doesn't work, it's illegal, and I believe that our brave troops and intelligence officers can keep our nation safe while adhering to America's fundamental beliefs and values when it comes to human rights. \r\n\u201cI am also extremely concerned about what this report brought to light regarding the inaccurate information provided by government officials and the flawed management of the interrogation efforts. This report highlights the need for robust Congressional oversight of our intelligence operations and will be an important new resource as we continue working to make sure that our government has the tools it needs to keep our families truly safe while maintaining the rule of law, our moral credibility, and the values we hold dear.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3739454a-ff01-4e9c-a510-0decd90e2bfb", "HEALTH CARE:  Murray Applauds Investment in Washington State Health Centers", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded an announcement from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that twenty-four health centers across Washington state will receive a total of $1,094,052 in Affordable Care Act funding to recognize health center quality improvement achievements and invest in ongoing quality improvement activities.\u00a0 The Washington health centers receiving awards are proven leaders in areas such as chronic disease management, preventive care and the use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to report quality data. \r\n\u201cWashington state\u2019s community health centers are helping patients get care when and where they need it, and I\u2019m so pleased they are being recognized for their work,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cThis funding will help health centers get the resources they need to continue putting patients\u2019 needs first and providing the best possible care.\u201d \r\nWashington Health centers receiving these funds are being recognized for high levels of quality performance in one or more of the following categories: \r\n \r\nHealth center quality leaders received awards if they were among the top 30 percent of all health centers that achieved the best overall clinical outcomes, demonstrating their ability to focus on quality in all aspects of their clinical operations; 7 Washington health centers received funding in this category for approximately $250,290.\r\nNational quality leaders received awards for exceeding national clinical benchmarks (Healthy People 2020 objectives and health center national averages) for chronic disease management, preventive care, and perinatal/prenatal care, demonstrating the critical role that health centers play in promoting higher quality health care nationwide; 4 Washington health centers received funding in this category for approximately $162,551.\r\nClinical quality improvers received awards if they demonstrated at least a 10 percent improvement in clinical quality measures between 2012 and 2013, showing a significant improvement in the health of the patients they serve; 22 Washington health centers received funding in this category for approximately $501,208.\r\nElectronic Health Record reporters received funding if they used EHRs to report clinical quality measure data on all of their patients, a key transformational step in driving quality improvement for all health center patients across the nation; 12 Washington health centers received funding in this category for approximately $180,000. \r\n \r\nIn Washington, 26 HRSA-supported health centers operate more than 254 service delivery sites that provide care to nearly 836,637 patients.\u00a0 For a list of FY 2015 Quality Improvement Awards recipients, visit www.hrsa.gov/about/news/2014tables/qualityimprovement/.\r\nFull breakdown of funding for Washington state:\u00a0http://www.hrsa.gov/about/news/2014tables/qualityimprovement/awards.aspx?state=wa&", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_legislation_helping_patients_in_eastern_washington_signed_into_law/", "McMorris Rodgers: Legislation Helping Patients in Eastern Washington Signed Into Law", "2014-12-08", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Cathy McMorris Rodgers", "M001159", "mcmorris.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u00a0\u2013 Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement after the President signed the bipartisan H.R. 4067, which provides for the extension of the enforcement instruction on supervision requirements for outpatient therapeutic services in critical access and small rural hospitals through 2014, into law last week. It will help Eastern Washington patients receive care in critical access and small rural hospitals.\u00a0\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased Republicans and Democrats are working together to advocate for people in rural communities like ours, because unworkable government mandates shouldn\u2019t prevent patients from accessing outpatient therapeutic services. Now that bipartisan legislation guaranteeing access to care has been signed into law, patients across Eastern Washington will continue to have access to low-risk outpatient services. I\u2019m proud to support this smart solution, which ensures patients continue to receive quality treatment without interruption.\u201d\nOver 46 million Americans in rural communities depend on critical access and small rural hospitals, and this law will delay the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) mandate regarding \u201cdirect supervision\u201d of outpatient services for the rest of the year. This CMS policy would require a supervising physician be physically present in the department when Medicare beneficiaries receive these services. It delays the enforcement of this policy for critical access and small rural hospitals with fewer than 100 beds.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://delbene.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/delbene-statement-on-alpine-lakes", "DelBene Statement on Alpine Lakes Wilderness and Illabot Creek Legislation Passing the U.S. House of Representatives Today", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Helping Our Veterans Find Jobs \r\n            November 10, 2017  \r\n            Dear Friend, Right now, too many veterans are struggling to find jobs. As workers face significant challenges adapting to a rapidly changing economy, it is essential we improve 21st century employment opportunities for those transitioning back into civilian life. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 3...\r\n            Read More \u00bb", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://dennyheck.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/fincher-and-heck-offer-stability-for-servicemembers-act-to-prevent", "Fincher and Heck Offer Stability for Servicemembers Act to Prevent Foreclosures", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 To prevent a pending expiration of foreclosure protection for military homeowners, Representatives Stephen Fincher (TN-8) and Denny Heck (WA-10) today introduced the Stability for Servicemembers Act. Existing law currently protects servicemembers from foreclosure for one year after they leave active duty, but the law is set to expire at the end of this year.\nThe Stability for Servicemembers Act extends the one-year foreclosure prevention measure through December 31, 2015.\n\u201cWe\u2019re making progress on reducing veteran unemployment, but we\u2019re not even close to being where we need to be when it comes to housing protections,\u201d Heck said. \u201cThe truth is volunteering to protect our country can make servicemembers vulnerable to foreclosure, and we need to recognize and acknowledge that risk by passing laws that prevent our heroes from losing their homes.\u201d\n\u201cA slow recovering economy and real estate market have hit our nation\u2019s military personnel especially hard as they transition out of active duty and seek new employment opportunities.\u00a0 Many of these folks are facing the threat of eviction from or foreclosure on their home,\u201d Fincher said. \u201cOur men and women in uniform are the best in the world, willingly putting their lives on the lines to protect our freedoms every day.\u00a0 The least we can do for them is ensure they don\u2019t lose their home when they leave active duty service.\u201d\nIn 2012, Congress temporarily extended the foreclosure protection to one year. The temporary revised timeframe was examined in a U.S. Government Accountability Office study to ensure its effectiveness. In \"Servicemembers Civil Relief Act: Information on Mortgage Protections and Related Education Efforts,\" GAO found the revised timeframe successfully protected veterans from losing their homes and didn\u2019t cause any unintended consequences for veterans or lenders.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-and-delbene-applaud-house-approval-keep-illabot-creek-wild-and-scenic", "Larsen and DelBene Applaud House Approval to Keep Illabot Creek Wild and Scenic", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, and Suzan DelBene, WA-01, today praised the U.S. House of Representatives\u2019 vote to designate Illabot Creek in Skagit County as a Wild and Scenic River. Illabot Creek is a critical habitat for threatened wild Chinook salmon, steelhead, bull trout and other wildlife, as well as a popular recreational destination for fishers and hunters.\n\u201cIllabot Creek is a beautiful part of our community and an integral part of Skagit Valley\u2019s environment,\u201d Larsen said. \u201cPreserving this habitat ensures that Skagit County residents and visitors will be able to continue hunting, fishing and hiking in the region. When we support vital salmon spawning waters like this, we protect the fishing industry jobs that depend on healthy fish populations. Moving this bill forward has taken persistence over the years, and I am pleased to work with Rep. DelBene to try to push it across the finish line.\u201d\n\u201cFor years, there has been a broad coalition of stakeholders from our region who have fought tirelessly to protect these important public lands, and I am thrilled that we are about to cross the finish line. The inclusion of the Illabot Creek Wild and Scenic bill means we will ensure the preservation of significant wild lands that are home to several threatened species. In addition to being important to local wildlife habitat, people have come to Illabot Creek for generations to hunt, fish and recreate. This legislation will preserve these opportunities for generations to come,\u201d DelBene said.\nLarsen first introduced the bill in 2009 with Senator Patty Murray. It passed the House in 2012, but did not clear the Senate. DelBene took the bill up after being elected to represent the new First Congressional District.\nIllabot Creek flows for 14.3 miles through Skagit County, starting at Snow King Mountain 7,500 feet up in the Cascades and tumbling down to join the Skagit River at 500 feet above sea level.\nOther conservation provisions in Washington state include:\n Expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area.\n\tCreate the Manhattan Project National Historical Park near the Tri-Cities.\n\tOpen Rattlesnake Mountain summit in the Hanford Reach National Monument to the public.\n\tRestore access in the North Cascades National Park to allow repairs to the Stehekin Road.\n The Illabot Creek provision was included in the National Defense Authorization Act. The bill now moves to the Senate for a vote.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-and-murray-ask-navy-fund-%E2%80%98hush-house%E2%80%99-naswi", "Larsen and Murray Ask Navy to Fund Hush House at NASWI", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S. Senator Patty Murray, WA, and Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, took action this week to respond to constituents concerned about noise from the EA-18G Growlers at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Murray and Larsen asked the U.S. Navy to consider recommending funding for the construction of a hangar at Ault Field called a hush house, which would muffle noise from on-ground engine testing and maintenance.\n\u201cCommunity members from Whidbey Island and the San Juan Islands have shared with me their concerns about the noise from the Growlers at NASWI. Senator Murray and I have listened and are asking the Navy to help out by building a hush house, which would muffle engine noise from testing and maintenance on the ground and direct it away from communities,\u201d Rep. Larsen said. \u201cI have always been clear in my support for NASWI\u2019s role as one of the country\u2019s premier Navy installations, the Growlers being stationed at the base, and the necessary training such as field carrier landing practice to make sure our servicemen and women are prepared. I will also continue working with community members and local leaders to address the impact of noise.\u201d\n\u201cWe\u2019ve heard from families on Whidbey Island and the San Juan Islands that the noise from NASWI is disturbing their communities,\u201d said Senator Murray.\u00a0 \u201cConstruction of this facility is a reasonable step to minimize the impact that planes from NASWI have on the surrounding area.\u201d\nFull text of the letter to the U.S. Navy can be found here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-defense-bill-funds-five-growlers-underscores-importance-pnw-national-defense", "Larsen: Defense Bill Funds Five Growlers, Underscores Importance of PNW to National Defense", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today voted for and the House of Representatives passed the final version of the annual defense policy bill, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015. The bill includes several provisions that support Navy bases in Northwest Washington, strengthening national security and improving the local economy. One measure in the bill allows the Navy to buy an additional five EA-18G Growlers, aircraft that are critical to the country\u2019s electronic warfare strategy. This brings the total number of Growlers that Congress will purchase from 135 to 140.\n\u201cCongress\u2019 decision to buy five more Growlers indicates the planes\u2019 importance to our national defense in this age of new technology, and continues to underscore the national commitment to maintaining Naval Air Station Whidbey Island as one of our country\u2019s preeminent Navy bases.\n\u201cI want to be clear this does not mean NASWI will automatically house five more Growlers. The number of Growlers at NASWI will be determined by the ongoing Environmental Impact Study (EIS), which has provided multiple opportunities for public input,\u201d Larsen said.\nCurrently, there are 82 Growlers actively flying out of NASWI and 12 used as backup in case an active plane is damaged. The EIS will determine the number of planes to be flown out of the base, which could be as high as 118 aircraft. This scenario could happen even if Congress had not funded any new Growlers this year.\nAfter the EIS determines the number of active planes at NASWI, the remaining aircraft that Congress has purchased will continue to be split between a Navy base in Japan, testing facilities, and spares at NASWI to replace lost or damaged aircraft, or those undergoing extended maintenance.e lost or damaged aircraft, or those undergoing extended maintenance.\nThe EIS is open for public comment until January 9, and people are encouraged to submit comments here: https://www.whidbeyeis.com/Comment.aspx.\nThe bill now moves onto the Senate for a vote.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-defense-policy-bill-makes-important-investments-northwest-washington", "Larsen Votes for Defense Policy Bill That Makes Important Investments in Northwest Washington", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today voted for and the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan final version of the annual defense policy bill, the Carl Levin and Howard P. \u2018Buck\u2019 McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015. The bill contains key provisions that continue to invest in vital assets in Northwest Washington, while strengthening U.S. national defense. Larsen is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.\n\u201cThis bill demonstrates the importance of the Pacific Northwest to national defense by investing in construction, manufacturing, and military bases in our region. Bases on the Pacific Coast are vital to our country\u2019s pivot to the Asia-Pacific region as a focus for security and economic interests.\n\u201cI am also pleased the bill contains full funding the for KC-46A tanker program, one of the Air Force\u2019s top three priorities. I fought hard to get the tanker program into the hands of the best aerospace workers in the world \u2013 the Machinists of Puget Sound, and I fought successfully for full funding.\n\u201cHowever, there are many ways this legislation could be improved. It fails to make progress towards closing the detention center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. And it fails to take on the budgetary challenge of sequestration that Congress imposed upon the Pentagon. Congress is unwilling to make cuts to military programs that have outlived their usefulness, and I would like to see us make decisions that reshape national security policy to meet 21st century challenges.\n\u201cI have also heard from veterans and military families concerned about cuts to their benefits, and I understand their concern. The Pentagon has proposed a number of budget cuts to stick within sequestration limits, but Congress has rejected them. Unfortunately, if Congress continues to fail to address sequestration, the limited cuts in this bill are a harbinger of tougher choices to come.\n\u201cWhile the bill is not perfect, it is an important bipartisan compromise that defines our country\u2019s national defense for the coming year,\u201d Larsen said.\nSome provisions in the bill include:\n Funds the acquisition of seven KC-46 tankers, which are manufactured at Boeing\u2019s Everett facility.\n\tFunds five EA-18G Growler aircraft.\n\tFunds the acquisition of eight P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft. The Navy has decided to base six P-8A squadrons at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI).\n\tFunds construction to provide important improvements at NASWI.\n\tSupports an 11 aircraft carrier fleet by funding the midlife refueling and overhaul of the USS George Washington.\n\tProvides a 1% pay increase for the men and women of the military, while freezing basic pay for General and Flag officers.\n\tFunds efforts to secure nuclear material worldwide, work Larsen has long supported.\n The bill now moves to the Senate for its consideration.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-extend-tax-relief-families-middle-class", "Larsen Votes to Extend Tax Relief for Families, Middle Class", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014The U.S. House of Representatives today passed a bill with support from Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, that preserves tax credits to help families and the middle class. H.R. 5771, the Tax Increase Prevention Act, extends for one year a variety of tax breaks that expired at the end of 2013, applying them to the 2014 tax year. Larsen also praised the country\u2019s decreasing deficit and called for continued fiscal responsibility.\n\u201cOur country\u2019s budget should reflect our shared value of opportunity for all, and it should do so in a balanced and responsible way. I have long called for a sane approach to our country\u2019s fiscal policy, and I am happy to report that we are moving in the right direction. Over the last five years, our country\u2019s deficit has fallen from $1.4 trillion to $483 billion. This means the deficit is down to 2.8 percent of our GDP, so we are getting closer to a world of budget sustainability.\n\u201cI voted in favor of this bill to support hardworking families who are putting their kids through college and to help low-income families afford housing. I am also pleased the bill extends the state and local tax deduction, which makes the tax code fairer for people in states like Washington that do not have an income tax. And it helps businesses invest in research and development, which are critical to the foundation of long-term economic growth that creates jobs and opportunity in Northwest Washington and across the country.\n\u201cBut this bill is far from perfect. Sane fiscal policy would not be extending handouts to NASCAR and horse racing, as this bill does. These kinds of tax breaks used to be called earmarks. Rather than this piecemeal and last-minute approach to legislating, Congress should work on broad, long-term business tax reform that encourages economic growth and opportunity.\n\u201cWhile I am frustrated with Congress\u2019 continued piecemeal approach to legislating, we cannot pin a higher bill on the middle class simply because Congress has yet again waited until the last minute to make decisions. People should have a clear understanding of what their taxes will look like, and I would like to see Congress work on longer-term solutions for the coming years,\u201d Larsen said.\nThe tax agreement includes the following provisions:\n Extends the state sales tax deduction for 2014, allowing Washington residents to deduct the amount of sales tax they pay on their federal tax return.\n\tProvides for a tax credit to help low-income individuals afford housing.\n\tEqualizes tax benefits for employer-provided mass transit and parking options.\n\tExtends a tax deduction for individuals and businesses who make charitable donations of food items.\n\tAllows teachers to deduct certain supply expenses.\n\tExtends research and development tax credits for businesses.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-alpine-lakes-legislation-passes-house", "Reichert Alpine Lakes Legislation Passes House", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation from U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) to expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in Washington State and designate both the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic. The legislation was first introduced by Rep. Reichert in 2007, and he has since tirelessly championed the wilderness protection of Alpine Lakes in order to preserve this local gem for future generations.\n\u201cI am thrilled to see the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act pass the House today as part of a lands package included within the National Defense Authorization Act,\u201d said Reichert. \u201cMaking this long-time goal a reality has been one of my top priorities since introducing this bill in 2007. I have worked tirelessly with my House and Senate colleagues as well as community members and local stakeholders \u2013 all who share my vision of preserving and protecting Alpine Lakes. The Alpine Lakes area is a perfect example of the natural beauty of our great state that also contributes to job creation and the success of local economies. This is the kind of legacy I want passed down to our children and grandchildren and with today\u2019s House passage I truly believe that Alpine Lakes will forever be a part of their heritage.\u201d\nThe existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1976 and is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. Key elements of the Alpine Lakes legislation include:\n Providing the protection of the Wilderness Act of 1964 for the lower elevation lands, which will bring a richer diversity of ecosystems, including deeply forested valleys, into the wilderness area and increase its overall biodiversity. The addition of these 21,000 acres of public land into wilderness has the direct effect of protecting a broader array of outdoor recreational opportunities easily accessible for wilderness enthusiasts.\n\tDesignating the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic, which would permanently protect the rivers\u2019 free-flowing character, water quality and outstanding recreation, fisheries, wildlife, geological and ecological values. This designation provides for many recreational activities including unique backcountry hiking, kayaking, and white water rafting that is unheard of so close to a major urban center.\n Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1) is a co-sponsor of the House legislation and Senate companion legislation was introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray. \u00a0The Senate is expected to take up and pass the National Defense Authorization Act next week, including the Alpine Lakes legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-takes-select-revenue-subcommittee-chairmanship", "Reichert Takes Select Revenue Subcommittee Chairmanship", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 After today\u2019s Ways and Means Subcommittee Selection, U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) released the following statement:\n\u201cI am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Chairman of the Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee. Among the issues facing our nation, reforming our tax code is one of the most critical. Our businesses must be given the opportunities to grow, invest and hire without a tax code that hinders this ability. For our families, it effects their ability to put food on the table, to send their kids to college, to grow their businesses, and to balance their budgets.\u00a0Our current tax code is outdated, largely incomprehensible, and overly burdensome. We have the ability to change that. I look forward to working with Chairman Ryan and the rest of my Ways and Means colleagues to ensure that tax reform becomes a reality.\n\u201cI am also pleased to remain on the Trade Subcommittee. As a long-time advocate of expanding trade, I will continue to fight for new opportunities for our workers, farmers and businesses across the country. There are many opportunities on the horizon, and I am committed to ensuring that we bring the job-creating benefits home. Millions of jobs in the U.S., including hundreds of thousands in Washington State, depend on trade and I will continue to support those whose livelihood depend on trade.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398486", "Jaime Herrera Beutlers Bipartisan Fishing Jobs Bill Passed by House; Heading to Senate", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Jaime Herrera Beutler", "H001056", "herrerabeutler.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Jaime Herrera Beutler\u2019s bipartisan fishing jobs bill, the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act, was passed today by a vote of 300-119 in the U.S. House of Representatives. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Jaime Herrera Beutler\u2019s bipartisan fishing jobs bill, the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act, was passed today by a vote of 300-119 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Upon passage of the bill, Jaime released the following statement:\n\u201cI am very pleased to see the U.S. House move this important fishing jobs bill one step closer to becoming law. It's a great example of a bipartisan, commonsense solution to support 3,000 hard-working Americans' jobs\u2014 many of which are right here in Pacific County,\u201d said Jaime.\u00a0 \u201cThe REFI Act will grant fairer loan terms to fishermen who operate in the West Coast Groundfish Fishery, providing much-needed relief for these struggling businesses. \u00a0It's good for local economies by helping keep businesses afloat, and will increase the likelihood that fishermen are able to pay back the entirety of their loans, which is good for the American taxpayer.\u201d\nFor more information about the REFI Act, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=db50166a-a366-4641-aa72-d897424ec50c", "Murray Meets with Attorney General Nominee, Talks Civil Rights, Immigration", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Patty Murray in her office with Attorney General Nominee Loretta Lynch. \r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013\u00a0 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray met with Loretta Lynch, President Obama\u2019s nominee for U.S. Attorney General, in advance of her confirmation hearings. Sen. Murray and Lynch discussed civil rights, immigration, and other issues impacting families in Washington state and across the country.\r\nSenator Murray\u2019s November statement on Lynch\u2019s nomination HERE.\u00a0\r\n*Download high quality version of the image HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-coast-guard-reauthorization-bill-includes-larsen-priorities", "House Passes Coast Guard Reauthorization Bill That Includes Larsen Priorities", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to reauthorize the U.S. Coast Guard that contains several provisions Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, has championed, including a plan for the U.S. icebreaker fleet and improved Arctic readiness. The Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 also reauthorizes the Small Shipyards program, which invests in small shipyards that create jobs in the Pacific Northwest and across the country.\nLarsen spoke on the floor in favor of the bill today. Watch his floor speech here.\n\u201cOur country faces a steep opportunity curve when it comes to the Arctic, and I am pleased the Coast Guard reauthorization bill recognizes the need to improve U.S. readiness in the region. As the U.S. prepares to take over the chairmanship of the Arctic Council in 2015, this bill signals that our country is ready to engage further in Arctic issues.\n\u201cAs the Arctic increasingly opens up to more shipping traffic, our icebreaker fleet will become even more important to protect American commerce and our national security. This bill requires the Coast Guard to come to a long overdue decision about reactivating the mothballed Polar Sea icebreaker. And it requires the Department of Defense, Coast Guard, and National Science Foundation to work together to develop a funding strategy for icebreakers they will all use. I am hopeful this whole-of-government approach will improve our country\u2019s icebreaking capacity, which is woefully inadequate, particularly compared with other Arctic nations.\n\u201cThe U.S. needs to participate in building infrastructure in the Arctic to protect the environment and provide safe passage for our vessels. This bill encourages the development of forward operating bases for the Coast Guard in the region, and it improves the ability of the Coast Guard to monitor, patrol, and protect our nation\u2019s Arctic waters.\n\u201cI am also pleased that this bill includes $10 million for the Small Shipyards Grant Program, a successful effort that provides infrastructure funding to shipyards in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the country. These shipyards create jobs and support our local economies,\u201d Larsen said.\nLarsen has led efforts to refurbish the Polar Sea icebreaker, and visited the vessel earlier this year.\nThe Small Shipyards Grant Program has previously funded upgrades to shipyards in Bellingham and Everett.\nLarsen applauded the bipartisan, bicameral Coast Guard reauthorization agreement earlier this week. He also is the co-chair of the Congressional Arctic Working Group, and has been advocating in Congress for investments in Arctic infrastructure.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-supports-able-act-%E2%80%93-helping-give-disabled-children-better-future", "Reichert Supports ABLE Act  Helping Give Disabled Children a Better Future", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) and his House colleagues passed the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act which would require states to allow individuals with disabilities to set up tax free ABLE savings accounts. These accounts would be used for expenses incurred related to addressing the disability of the individual. Not only will they provide financial support, but they provide for the freedom to pursue independence and the best possible quality of life.\n\u201cA parent never rests until they know their child is safe and cared for. For many parents of children with disabilities, this just isn\u2019t possible under current law as I have seen in the case of my own godson Kyle. Individuals with disabilities too often lose critical assistance if they begin to work towards a better future for themselves by pursuing the independence of holding a job. The ABLE Act allows parents to save for their child\u2019s future expenses, particularly if their child does not have the ability to support themselves. These are real people who are working hard to overcome real challenges and right now current law hinders rather than helps that. Now, with the ABLE Act, ABLE accounts will allow individuals, or their families, to pay into a tax-free account to help with the costs associated with overcoming a disability. This ranges from uncovered health care, education costs, housing needs, transportation costs, assistive technology, and personal support services. There is nothing more satisfying than ensuring the health and happiness of our children and I am proud today to have passed legislation that will secure a better a future for so many of America\u2019s children.\u201d\nAs Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Resources Rep. Reichert was a leader in getting the ABLE Act marked up and passed out of the Ways and Means Committee on July 31, 2014. \u00a0This action allowed it to come before the full House for a vote. \u00a0The House passed the ABLE Act by a vote of 404 to 17. For more details on the ABLE Act, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-about-maria?ContentRecord_id=2ef90e00-da54-4e29-a26b-de8e8407b51c", "Congress to Pro Sports: Toughen Up the Rules", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.03.14\n    \t\t\t Congress to Pro Sports: Toughen Up the Rules  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tCongress is stepping into the debate about pro athletes and domestic violence.\r\nTuesday, the United States Senate called top leaders of pro sports leagues to Washington.   \u00a0   Lawmakers want to see league leaders put tougher and clearer domestic violence policies in place.   \u00a0   NFL star Ray Rice recently had his indefinite suspension overturned in the wake of his domestic violence case. His public apology to his wife making a fresh round of headlines, has become the most visible face of the problem of domestic abuse at the hands of pro athletes.   \u00a0   Now the U.S. Senate is stepping in. Top officials from the NFL, NBA, and MLB were all on Capitol Hill.   \u00a0  \u201cIt has to stop and that's what we're here for,\u201d said Sen. Jay Rockefeller.    \u00a0   Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell says the Ray Rice incident shows the NFL\u2019s policies for dealing with domestic violence aren't good enough.   \u00a0  \u201cWell I think the NFL needs to have a zero tolerance policy and a consistent plan as to how that is implemented,\u201d said Cantwell.    \u00a0   In emotional testimony, NFL executive Troy Vincent told the Senate panel his mother was a victim of domestic violence and promised the league is committed to do better.   \u00a0  \u201cI relate to the 20 million victims, the survivors of domestic violence and abuse in every community across our great nation,\u201d said Vincent.    \u00a0   Congress does have some influence here. The pro sports leagues have tax\u00a0exempt status.    Sen. Corey Booker has introduced a bill that would eliminate that and use the money raised to fund domestic abuse programs", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398485", "Rep. Herrera Beutler, Sen. Cantwells Bipartisan Fishing Jobs Bill Heading For Full U.S. House Vote", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Jaime Herrera Beutler", "H001056", "herrerabeutler.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The bipartisan fishing jobs bill introduced by U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) \u2013 the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act \u2013  is expected to receive a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives this week. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      The bipartisan fishing jobs bill introduced by U.S. Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) \u2013\u00a0the Revitalizing the Economy of Fisheries in the Pacific (REFI) Act \u2013\u00a0\u00a0is expected to receive a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives this week. It would then go to the U.S. Senate before year\u2019s end.\n\u201cWith this positive development, I\u2019m very hopeful that this bipartisan bill to protect more than 3,000 fishing jobs \u2013 many of which are in Pacific County \u2013 will make it into law,\u201d said Jaime.\u00a0 \u201cThe REFI Act to grant fairer loan terms to the West Coast Groundfish Fishery is one of those solutions that is neither Democrat nor Republican \u2013 it\u2019s simply common sense.\u00a0 We wouldn\u2019t have gotten here without the work of Senator Cantwell as well as the support of many of my colleagues here in the U.S. House.\u00a0 This fishery was declared an economic disaster in 2000 and has been struggling to recover ever since, so I\u2019m pleased we\u2019re close to passing this bill to help them stay afloat and continue their important role in our region\u2019s economy.\u201d\n\u201cThis is an important step forward to support Washington fishing jobs and our $30 billion maritime economy,\u201d said Sen. Cantwell, a member of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and Coast Guard. \u201cOur bipartisan bill will level the playing field for West Coast groundfish fishermen, ensuring they have fair financing and flexibility to grow their businesses. I\u2019m proud to work with Rep. Herrera Beutler on this common-sense measure to support job growth in Washington\u2019s fishing economy. We\u2019ll continue to work to pass this bill through both the House and Senate.\u201d\nThe bill has been combined into a larger package of legislation and will be considered before Congress this week as part of the 2015 National Defense Authorization Act.\nThe REFI Act that would provide relief to fishermen off the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California who are struggling to sustain their businesses. The bill would adjust groundfishermens\u2019 federal loan interest rates to match loan rates for other businesses, and would extend the length of these loans from 30 to 45 years. It would also reduce the cost recovery fees the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) collects from fishermen to pay down their loans.\nThe West Coast groundfish fishery was declared an economic disaster in 2000, because of overcapitalization and overfishing. In 2003, Congress authorized buyback loans for the fishery to decrease fishing pressure and support a catch-share program in the fishery. These loans help eliminate overfishing by buying out the permits of those willing to leave the fleet. Congress was responding to a\u00a0very real need, but has since learned that the loans were structured in an unsustainable manner.\nFor more details on this legislation, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_empowering_individuals_across_eastern_washington/", "McMorris Rodgers: Empowering Individuals Across Eastern Washington", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Cathy McMorris Rodgers", "M001159", "mcmorris.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u2013\u00a0Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) issued the following statement today after the House passed H.R. 647, the bipartisan Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, which allows individuals with disabilities to save for their futures through the creation of tax-free savings accounts.\n\u201cTonight the House spoke for millions of Americans with disabilities.\u00a0We spoke to give them a better life; to provide them with greater opportunities; and to empower them to reach their full potential.\u00a0 As the mom of a seven-year old son with Down syndrome, today my heart is full \u2013 because I know firsthand how federal policies can limit the opportunities for those with disabilities. The ABLE Act will change that.\u00a0\n\u201cThis overwhelmingly bipartisan bill will empower individuals across Eastern Washington \u2013 through tax-free savings accounts \u2013 to save for college, retirement, and other future expenses.\u00a0 As part of America\u2019s New Congress, we are here to advance real solutions.\u00a0 Solutions that make people\u2019s lives better.\u00a0 Solutions that empowerall Americans \u2013 no matter where they come from or how much money they make or what challenges they face.\u00a0 I applaud the many disability groups that have advocated, for so many years, to secure passage of legislation that is as commonsense as it is compassionate.\u00a0 It will empower millions \u2013 like my son, Cole \u2013 with the opportunity to have a better life.\u00a0 Andthat is why we are here.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\nThe ABLE Act encourages tax-free savings for qualified expenses such as education, housing and transportation by amending Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, working just like a 529 education savings plan.\nTo view Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers\u2019s Floor Statement, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mcmorris.house.gov/mcmorris_rodgers_providing_certainty_for_eastern_washington_taxpayers_/", "McMorris Rodgers: Providing Certainty for Eastern Washington Taxpayers", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Cathy McMorris Rodgers", "M001159", "mcmorris.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013\u00a0Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) released the following statement today after the passage of H.R. 5771, the Tax Increase Prevention Act, which provides American taxpayers certainty and includes over 50 provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to help small businesses and individuals succeed. \n\u201cLooking ahead it is critical we pass comprehensive tax reform in order to provide both permanence and lasting certainty to Eastern Washington taxpayers. That being said, this legislation enables local small businesses to create new jobs, helps Eastern Washington manufacturers invest in new advancements, and creates new possibilities for moms and dads to get ahead \u2013 providing certainty for thousands of people across our state. \n\u201cIt helps our community expand hydropower generation, providing support for this important renewable energy, and it helps Washington state residents keep more of their hard-earned income \u2013 empowering Eastern Washington to reach new heights.\u201d \nThe Tax Increase Prevention Act extends, for one year, numerous tax relief provisions that expired at the end of calendar year 2013 or during 2014, preventing tax increases on millions of families and businesses. \nIt includes provisions to extend through 2014 the research and development(R&D) tax credit, which helps Eastern Washington manufacturers expand and grow. Additionally it provides an extension of credit for nonbusiness energy property in Eastern Washington. \u00a0\nThe Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates that these provisions will reduce revenues by $44.7 billion over the ten-year budget window.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206002203/http://delbene.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delbene-announces-federal-funds-to-boost-local-farm-to-school-programs", "DelBene Announces Federal Funds to Boost Local Farm-to-School Programs", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) announced that the Washington Sustainable Food & Farming Network has been awarded $88,444 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support its efforts to connect school cafeterias with local farmers and growers. The grant is part of USDA\u2019s Farm to School Program.\n\u201cAs schools do more to provide healthy, nutritious food for students, we should do everything possible to help them take advantage of the amazing fresh fruits and vegetables grown by our local farmers,\u201d said DelBene. \u201cThe funds announced today will support successful programs that help connect local farmers with school districts eager to serve our students fresh, healthy, locally grown food.\u201d\nThe federal grant will help to expand and boost Washington Sustainable Food & Farming Network\u2019s farm to school program. The project will provide educational tools, professional development, networking opportunities, field trips, and technical training to enhance existing farm to school programs. Regional farm to school networks in Northwest and Central Washington will be developed to support new partnerships between local farmers and ranchers, food hubs and schools, resulting in more Washington grown food being served in school cafeterias.\n\u201cWe are thrilled to receive support from USDA,\u201d says WSFFN Executive Director Ellen Gray. \u201cStrengthening the purchasing relationships between local farmers and ranchers and schools helps our hardworking farmers, our kids and our economy.\u201d\nUSDA's Farm to School Grants help schools across the country acquire locally grown foods, while increasing market opportunities for farmers and ranchers.\nMore information about the USDA grant can be found HERE.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://dennyheck.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-denny-heck-urges-house-passage-of-sales-tax-deduction", "Congressman Denny Heck Urges House Passage of Sales Tax Deduction", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today U.S. Representative Denny Heck (WA-10) released the following statement regarding the anticipated vote Wednesday, December 3, on the short-term tax extenders package, which includes the extension of deductions for state and local general sales taxes (H.R. 5771, Section 105):\n\u201cI am pleased that this bill reinstates a short-term extension of state and local sales tax deductions for American taxpayers, but I firmly believe the House and Senate should also work to make this tax provision permanent. A lasting law on the books delivers certainty for the residents of Washington that their tax contributions will be honored, and ensures they have disposable income that boosts the state and local economy, giving renewed strength to the local job market.\n\u201cCongress should cement the promise of tax fairness by keeping the sales tax deduction intact for good. Let Washington\u2019s tax dollars be treated the same way as taxes in other states.\u201d\nBackground\nThe American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-240) extended the sales tax deduction option through the 2013 tax year, but it has since been allowed to expire.\nData on the economic impact of the sales tax deduction in WA (via Pew Charitable Trusts):\n The average deduction per Washington filer in 2012 was $602.\n\tThe deduction claim rate in Washington was 27.7%, the highest among all states with limited or no income tax.\n According to 2012 IRS data, total amount claimed in Washington for the \u201cstate and local general sales taxes\u201d itemized deduction category was $1.952 billion.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/coast-guard-reauthorization-bill-includes-larsen-priorities", "Coast Guard Reauthorization Bill Includes Larsen Priorities", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, today praised the bipartisan and bicameral agreement to reauthorize the U.S. Coast Guard. The Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 advances several of Larsen\u2019s priorities, including clarifying the Coast Guard\u2019s icebreaking role, improving its ability to track ships in U.S. Arctic waters, and reauthorizing the Small Shipyards program.\n\u201cI am pleased this bill directs the Coast Guard and other federal agencies to clarify how they will move forward to build up our country\u2019s icebreaking capacity. Our icebreaker fleet protects American commerce and our national security, and creates hundreds of jobs in Northwest Washington. As the Arctic increasingly opens up to more shipping traffic, the U.S. needs to participate in building infrastructure in the region to protect the environment and provide safe passage for our vessels. We cannot and should not cede this important region to international competitors.\n\u201cThe women and men of the Coast Guard perform their many missions with dedication and bravery every day. This bill gives them the resources they need to do their jobs. By moving forward on icebreakers, investing in small shipyards in Northwest Washington and increasing our capabilities in the Arctic, this bill sets a strong foundation for the Coast Guard\u2019s continuing work and supports the economy in the Pacific Northwest,\u201d Larsen said.\nThe bill accomplishes a number of goals, including:\nLarsen is the co-chair of the Congressional Arctic Working Group\u00a0and has been advocating in Congress for investments in U.S. Arctic infrastructure.\nThe bill is now expected to come before both the House and the Senate for votes.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=cbbacbed-fab0-48d5-89aa-c1f49b9361ae", "Cantwell: NFL Needs to Show Stronger Leadership on Domestic Violence", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.02.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell: NFL Needs to Show Stronger Leadership on Domestic Violence \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Senator: \u2018My constituents are just flabbergasted that the NFL continues to enjoy a tax exempt status\u2019\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In a Senate committee hearing today on domestic violence in professional sports, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) urged the National Football League to show stronger\u00a0 leadership in addressing domestic abuse and changing the name of the Washington, D.C. franchise.\r\n\u201cMy constituents are just flabbergasted that the NFL continues to enjoy a tax exempt status,\u201d said Cantwell during Tuesday\u2019s hearing of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. \u201cOn these issues of having a hateful name for a team, and then having these cases of domestic violence \u2013 the NFL is not showing the leadership that I believe it should. And it certainly doesn\u2019t deserve the tax exempt status.\u201d\r\nThe hearing focused on professional sports leagues\u2019 policies on domestic violence amid controversy over the NFL\u2019s handling of disciplinary action against running back Ray Rice.\u00a0 Cantwell and other committee members questioned witnesses about whether the leagues\u2019 policies do enough to hold players accountable and protect victims.\r\nWitnesses included representatives from the NFL, Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association and National Hockey League, as well as representatives of the various players associations.\r\n\u201cWe saw this case with Donald Sterling, and we saw immediate and swift action,\u201d said Cantwell, referring to the NBA\u2019s decision to ban former Los Angeles Clippers\u2019 owner Donald Sterling from the league.\u00a0 \u201cIt is clear that in some cases, these organizations can act swiftly and do act swiftly. The question is, in this issue of domestic violence, why you don\u2019t? What is the culture within these organizations that prevent them from acting as swiftly as in the case of Donald Sterling?\u201d\r\nCantwell (D-WA), along with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), and Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) introduced legislation earlier this year that would revoke the NFL\u2019s tax-exempt status if it continues to promote the current name of the team in Washington, D.C. Many tribes and civil rights organizations have called on the team to change because it is considered a racial slur. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\r\nWitnesses at the hearing included:\r\n \r\nTroy Vincent, the NFL\u2019s Executive Vice President of Football Operations\r\nJoe Torre, MLB\u2019s Executive Vice President\r\nKathleen Behrens, the NBA\u2019s Executive Vice President for Social Responsibility and Player Programs\r\nJessica Berman, NHL Vice President and Deputy General Counsel\r\nTeri Patterson, Deputy Managing Director of the NFL Players Association\r\nSteve Fehr, Special Counsel of the NHL Players Association\r\nMichele Roberts, Executive Director of the NBA Players Association\r\n \r\nBelow is a transcript of Cantwell\u2019s remarks.\r\n\u201cWe saw this case with Donald Sterling, and we saw immediate and swift action. In fact, Michael Jordan praised the NBA saying, a powerful message was sent that there can be \u2018zero tolerance for racism and hatred.\u2019\r\n\u201cIt is clear that in some cases these organizations can act swiftly and do act swiftly. The question is, in this issue of domestic violence, why you don\u2019t?\r\n\u201cWhat we are hearing from many of my colleagues today is, what is the culture within these organizations that prevent them from acting as swiftly as in the case of Donald Sterling?\r\n\u201cI am going to submit some questions for the record, but I also, too, want to be on record. I am hearing from my constituents as I have raised this issue related to what is a very hateful name in association with the NFL -- my constituents are just flabbergasted that the NFL continues to enjoy a tax exempt status. For what purpose?\r\n\u201cAnd yet, on these issues of having a hateful name for a team, and then having these cases of domestic violence \u2013 to say nothing of the incidents of what happened in Florida with players \u2013 the NFL is not showing the leadership that I believe it should, and it certainly doesn\u2019t deserve the tax exempt status.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-nfl-needs-to-show-stronger-leadership-on-domestic-violence", "Cantwell: NFL Needs to Show Stronger Leadership on Domestic Violence", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.02.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell: NFL Needs to Show Stronger Leadership on Domestic Violence \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Senator: My constituents are just flabbergasted that the NFL continues to enjoy a tax exempt status'\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  In a Senate committee hearing today on domestic violence in professional sports, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) urged the National Football League to show stronger leadership in addressing domestic abuse and changing the name of the Washington, D.C. franchise.\r\nMy constituents are just flabbergasted that the NFL continues to enjoy a tax exempt status, said Cantwell during Tuesday's hearing of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. On these issues of having a hateful name for a team, and then having these cases of domestic violence  the NFL is not showing the leadership that I believe it should. And it certainly doesn't deserve the tax exempt status.\r\nThe hearing focused on professional sports leagues' policies on domestic violence amid controversy over the NFL's handling of disciplinary action against running back Ray Rice. Cantwell and other committee members questioned witnesses about whether the leagues' policies do enough to hold players accountable and protect victims.\r\nWitnesses included representatives from the NFL, Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association and National Hockey League, as well as representatives of the various players associations.\r\nWe saw this case with Donald Sterling, and we saw immediate and swift action, said Cantwell, referring to the NBA's decision to ban former Los Angeles Clippers' owner Donald Sterling from the league. It is clear that in some cases, these organizations can act swiftly and do act swiftly. The question is, in this issue of domestic violence, why you don't? What is the culture within these organizations that prevent them from acting as swiftly as in the case of Donald Sterling?\r\nCantwell (D-WA), along with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), and Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) introduced legislation earlier this year that would revoke the NFL's tax-exempt status if it continues to promote the current name of the team in Washington, D.C. Many tribes and civil rights organizations have called on the team to change because it is considered a racial slur.        \r\nWitnesses at the hearing included:\r\n \r\nTroy Vincent, the NFL's Executive Vice President of Football Operations\r\nJoe Torre, MLB's Executive Vice President\r\nKathleen Behrens, the NBA's Executive Vice President for Social Responsibility and Player Programs\r\nJessica Berman, NHL Vice President and Deputy General Counsel\r\nTeri Patterson, Deputy Managing Director of the NFL Players Association\r\nSteve Fehr, Special Counsel of the NHL Players Association\r\nMichele Roberts, Executive Director of the NBA Players Association\r\n \r\nBelow is a transcript of Cantwell's remarks.\r\nWe saw this case with Donald Sterling, and we saw immediate and swift action. In fact, Michael Jordan praised the NBA saying, a powerful message was sent that there can be zero tolerance for racism and hatred.'\r\nIt is clear that in some cases these organizations can act swiftly and do act swiftly. The question is, in this issue of domestic violence, why you don't?\r\nWhat we are hearing from many of my colleagues today is, what is the culture within these organizations that prevent them from acting as swiftly as in the case of Donald Sterling?\r\nI am going to submit some questions for the record, but I also, too, want to be on record. I am hearing from my constituents as I have raised this issue related to what is a very hateful name in association with the NFL -- my constituents are just flabbergasted that the NFL continues to enjoy a tax exempt status. For what purpose?\r\nAnd yet, on these issues of having a hateful name for a team, and then having these cases of domestic violence  to say nothing of the incidents of what happened in Florida with players  the NFL is not showing the leadership that I believe it should, and it certainly doesn't deserve the tax exempt status.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4674ee06-4b88-448a-8829-b6fd2553c141", "Cantwell Statement on Small Business Saturday", "2014-11-29", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on Small Business Saturday \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Senator encourages shoppers to support local jobs during holiday season\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t SEATTLE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, released the following statement to remind holiday shoppers about \u201cSmall Business Saturday\u201d on November 29.\r\n\u201cSmall businesses drive our economy and help create jobs on Main Streets across America,\u201d Cantwell said. \u201cOn this Small Business Saturday, I encourage my fellow Washingtonians to visit the small, local shops in their neighborhoods. Supporting local small businesses means investing in local jobs and the future success of our communities.\u201d\r\nCantwell and Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), the committee\u2019s ranking member, introduced Senate Resolution 548 to designate this year\u2019s Small Business Saturday on November 29.\u00a0The Senate passed the resolution in September.\r\nSmall Business Saturday falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday and encourages consumers to shop local and support small businesses during one of the heaviest shopping periods of the year.\u00a0 According to the National Retail Federation, an estimated 141 million shoppers spent $57.4 billion on consumer purchases during Thanksgiving weekend last year. Shopping at independent, locally-owned businesses puts 52 cents of every dollar spent back into the local community.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/2014/11/29/cantwell-statement-on-small-business-saturday", "Cantwell Statement on Small Business Saturday", "2014-11-29", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on Small Business Saturday \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Senator encourages shoppers to support local jobs during holiday season\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t SEATTLE  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, released the following statement to remind holiday shoppers about Small Business Saturday on November 29.\r\nSmall businesses drive our economy and help create jobs on Main Streets across America, Cantwell said. On this Small Business Saturday, I encourage my fellow Washingtonians to visit the small, local shops in their neighborhoods. Supporting local small businesses means investing in local jobs and the future success of our communities.\r\nCantwell and Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), the committee's ranking member, introduced Senate Resolution 548 to designate this year's Small Business Saturday on November 29.The Senate passed the resolution in September.\r\nSmall Business Saturday falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday and encourages consumers to shop local and support small businesses during one of the heaviest shopping periods of the year. According to the National Retail Federation, an estimated 141 million shoppers spent $57.4 billion on consumer purchases during Thanksgiving weekend last year. Shopping at independent, locally-owned businesses puts 52 cents of every dollar spent back into the local community.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398484", "Jaime Herrera Beutler Praises Governors Chehalis Basin Work Group for Cooperative, Citizen-Driven Flood and Fish Plan", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Jaime Herrera Beutler", "H001056", "herrerabeutler.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Jaime Herrera Beutler Praises Governor\u2019s Chehalis Basin Work Group for Cooperative, Citizen-Driven Flood and Fish Plan \r\n   \r\n    \r\n      Jaime pledges to help move Work Group\u2019s recommendation forward to protect citizens, communities, wildlife \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington, DC,\r\n        November 25, 2014\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n        Jaime Herrera Beutler today praised the Chehalis Basin Work Group for putting forth its formal recommendation to Governor Inslee for his endorsement.\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Jaime Herrera Beutler today praised the Chehalis Basin Work Group for putting forth its formal recommendation to Governor Inslee for his endorsement. She released the following statement regarding this important development:\u201cThis recommendation represents significant progress toward realizing a basin-wide flood solution and fish protection plan. The rain and storms that come each November serve as reminders of the disaster that hit our communities in 2007, and can strike again unless we advance a plan to protect this region from catastrophic flooding. Bringing together so many citizens and stakeholders behind this recommendation has been no small feat.  I applaud Governor Inslee and the Chehalis Basin Work Group for their countless hours of work, focus, and dedication to this issue.  There is no partisanship when it comes to protecting families and communities from flood damage or restoring a vibrant fishery in the Chehalis River basin. Since I was first elected as Southwest Washington\u2019s federal representative, I\u2019ve supported a cooperative, citizen-driven effort to protect the residents who call this region home, as well as fish habitat, interstate transportation and commerce. I remain actively ready to help with this proposal however I can as it moves forward.\u201d  Jaime has been at the forefront of finding a basin wide solution since her election to Congress. In 2012 she fought to block any flood plan that only protected the I-5 corridor, leaving communities more vulnerable to devastating floods. Click here to read about those efforts. Jaime also successfully inserted a legislative provision in the fiscal year 2015 U.S. House Transportation Appropriations bill directing U.S. Department of Transportation to provide technical assistance to the Chehalis Basin Work Group as they developed their recommendation.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206034200/http://kilmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-puget-sound-naval-shipyard-s-announcement-of-850-job", "Kilmer Statement on Puget Sound Naval Shipyards Announcement of 850 Job Openings", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) released the following statement after the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility announced they will hire 850 entry-level workers.\n\u201cA growing workforce at our shipyard boosts a growing middle-class in our community,\u201d said Kilmer. \u201cThis announcement is a great opportunity for folks looking to learn new skills and build a career while earning a quality wage. It\u2019s good news for veterans and servicemembers transitioning to civilian life and looking for a job that builds on their experiences serving on our behalf too.\u00a0 A thriving shipyard also provides jobs that give workers a chance to support critical Naval missions and at the same time helps local small businesses expand. I\u2019ll keep fighting to ensure our shipyard workforce has the support it needs to continue creating quality opportunities for our region.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-murray-kilmer-herrera-beutler-applaud-usda-cranberry-purchase", "Cantwell, Murray, Kilmer, Herrera Beutler Applaud USDA Cranberry Purchase", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.25.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, Murray, Kilmer, Herrera Beutler Applaud USDA Cranberry Purchase \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t is home to 110 cranberry farms, 1,700 acres of farmland\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer and Jaime Herrera Beutler applauded an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approving up to $55 million nationwide to purchase up to 68 million pounds of surplus cranberry products, a move that will provide stability to Washington state cranberry growers.\r\nLast week, the delegation members sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack requesting the USDA purchase. According to the Cranberry Marketing Committee, there are 110 farms in Washington state on 1,700 acres of farmland supporting approximately 165 direct jobs and $8 million in local revenue. The purchase will be made under USDA's Section 32 program, which provides funds for USDA to purchase surplus foods from farmers for use in USDA food and nutrition programs.\r\nAs you know, in the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin cranberry production is not only important to the many family farming operations, but critical to the local and state rural economies they support, the Delegation Members wrote in the letter. In these states, the industry provides significant jobs, at both the farm level and throughout the region. A successful Section 32 purchase of cranberry products will directly assist these families and regional economies in weathering the impact of the aforementioned factors on cranberry commodity prices.\r\nWashington state is the 5th largest producer of cranberries in the United States, and is expected to produce 162,000 barrels this year, which is an increase of 10,000 barrels from 2013. The state has been seeing consistently higher yields due to favorable weather conditions in cranberry-growing areas.\r\nFull text of the letter below:\r\nDear Secretary Vilsack:\r\nWe are writing in support of the recent request by U.S. cranberry growers in our states for Section 32 purchases of surplus cranberry products including cranberry concentrate, cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, and related processed products. With record crops over the past three years and inventories at all-time records, we are hopeful that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can approve significant Section 32 purchases in Fiscal Year 2015 for distribution to appropriate USDA food and nutrition programs.\r\nThe industry has taken very aggressive measures over the past year to reduce existing inventories through market promotion and development activities. There is broad consensus that additional actions by USDA are needed to help address crop inventories and supply, which continue to vastly exceed the rate of growth in sales. According to recent projections by the Cranberry Marketing Committee, an expected 30 percent increase in inventory, amounting to 7.5 million barrels (750 million pounds) of cranberries, will be carried into the 2015 crop year. This inventory represents 90 percent of projected yearly sales and will place continued pressures on cranberry commodity prices, which are the lowest that they have been in nearly 15 years. Given the increase in production over the past three years, the projected 2014 cropwhich is anticipated to be the second largest crop in historyand the continued growth of the industry outside of the U.S., the cranberry industry has requested that USDA consider a purchase that would remove approximately one million barrels of cranberries from inventory.\r\nAs you know, in the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin cranberry production is not only important to the many family farming operations, but critical to the local and state rural economies they support. In these states, the industry provides significant jobs, at both the farm level and throughout the region. A successful Section 32 purchase of cranberry products will directly assist these families and regional economies in weathering the impact of the aforementioned factors on cranberry commodity prices.\r\nWe appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to working with you and the Agricultural Marketing Service to ensure the concerns of the industry are given every appropriate consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of assistance, and thank you in advance for your attention to our request.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9ccf7f09-3972-4fd0-872e-dc9be629184b", "RURAL WA: Murray Urges Republican and Democratic Leaders to Fund Expiring Programs For Rural Communities", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Most impacted WA counties include: Chelan, Clallam, Grant, Jefferson, Kittitas, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, Skagit, Snohomish, Whatcom \r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) sent a letter to Democratic Senate Leader Harry Reid and Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell urging the inclusion of Payment In Lieu of Taxes and Secure Rural Schools payments to counties in legislation moving at the end of the year.\u00a0These funds go to emergency services, police, health, schools, prison facilities, and more and frequently play an important role in the budgets of counties with public lands within their boundaries.\u00a0 In 2014, Washington state counties received just over $19 million from PILT and approximately $21.5 million from SRS.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cThough many families in Washington state have never heard of the PILT or SRS programs, they serve as a lifeline for dozens of rural communities in our state and across the country,\u201d Senator Murray said.\u00a0 \u201cFrom funding local police forces to supporting public schools, these programs are vital to counties impacted by non-taxable federal land, so I will continue working to ensure the PILT and SRS programs are renewed in any legislation passed by Congress before the year\u2019s end.\u201d \r\nFY14 PILT payments broken down by county can be found here. \r\nCounties benefitting significantly from the PILT program include: Chelan, Clallam, Grant, Jefferson, Kittitas, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom. \r\nFull text of the letter below:\r\nDear Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell: \r\nWe write to request that full funding of the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) program be included in any end-of-year legislation likely to pass in the Senate and House.\u00a0 We greatly appreciate your attention to these programs in previous years and would welcome the opportunity to work with you to ensure that a solution for at least Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15) is in place before the end of the 113th Congress. \r\nThe PILT program provides critical resources to nearly 1,900 counties in 49 states and 3 U.S. territories.\u00a0 It was created in 1976 to help offset losses to local governments from the presence of non-taxable federal lands.\u00a0 Property taxes fund county governments allowing them to provide essential services such as law enforcement, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, education, and health services for local communities.\u00a0 A fully-funded PILT program helps to ensure that counties that house federal lands can continue to provide these essential services.\u00a0 \r\nThe SRS program reaches over 775 rural counties and 4,400 schools located near national forests throughout the country. SRS payments support public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects.\u00a0 Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents. \r\nMoving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation\u2019s counties containing federal lands.\u00a0 As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.\u00a0 In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government\u2019s obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.\u00a0 We look forward to working with you to resolve this pressing issue facing our communities in FY15 and in the coming years.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=a3c172c3-1f24-4855-9710-094394affd77", "Murray Joins Group of 40 Senators in Backing DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a group of 40 Senate colleagues in supporting the Department of Defense\u2019s (DOD) plan to update the Military Lending Act (MLA) and close existing loopholes in order to better protect soldiers and their families from abusive financial practices.\u00a0 The letter, sent to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, expresses strong support for the proposed new rule to help prevent lenders from charging excessive fees and taking advantage of military families. \r\nFollowing a 2006 Pentagon report that found that \u201cpredatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all-volunteer fighting force,\u201d Congress passed the MLA.\u00a0 This law capped the annual interest rates for consumer credit to service members and their dependents at 36% while giving DOD the authority to define what loans should be covered.\u00a0 The DOD\u2019s 2007 implementing regulations narrowly included only three types of loans: (1) payday loans: closed-end loans with terms of 91 days or fewer, for $2,000 or less; (2) auto title loans: closed-end loans with terms of 181 days or fewer; and (3) refund anticipation loans: closed-end credit. \r\nIn the proposed changes to the rules implementing the MLA, first announced in September, DOD sought to close existing loopholes in the current MLA rule.\u00a0 Today\u2019s letter voices strong support for the proposed rule, arguing that the changes strike a better balance between protecting service members and their families while maintaining access to good credit.\u00a0 \r\n\u201cAs our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders,\u201d the Senators wrote.\u00a0 \u201cWe strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.\u201d\r\nMurray was joined by Senators Reed and Durbin, Mark Udall (D-CO), Levin (D-MI), Brown (D-OH), Hirono (D-HI), Manchin (D-WV), Warner (D-VA), Franken (D-MN), Baldwin (D-WI), Nelson (D-FL), Murphy (D-CT), Blumenthal (D-CT), Merkley (D-OR), Heinrich (D-NM), Warren (D-MA), Gillibrand (D-NY), Whitehouse (D-RI), King (I-ME), Klobuchar (D-MN), Tom Udall (D-NM), Kaine (D-VA), McCaskill (D-MO), Shaheen (D-NH), Schatz (D-HI), Markey (D-MA), Bennet (D-CO), Coons (D-DE), Donnelly (D-IN), Feinstein (D-CA), Cardin (D-MD), Carper (D-DE), Wyden (D-OR), Heitkamp (D-ND), Tester (D-MT), Boxer (D-CA), Hagan (D-NC), Harkin (D-IA), and Schumer (D-NY) in signing onto the letter.\u00a0 The signatories include every Democratic member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. \r\nThe comment period for the proposed rule, which was recently extended, ends on December 26, 2014. \r\nThe full text of the letter follows: \r\nDear Mr. Secretary: \r\nWe are writing in response to the Department of Defense (DOD) proposal to update the implementing rules for the Military Lending Act (MLA). \r\nBy enacting the MLA as part of the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007, Congress sent a clear bipartisan message that protecting service members and their families from predatory and high cost lending was of paramount importance to their financial security and military readiness. \r\nThis concern was reiterated in the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, which stated that \u201cthe conferees are concerned that the Department must remain vigilant to eliminate continuing, evolving predatory lending practices targeting service members and their families, and believe the Department should review its regulations implementing section 987, to address changes in the industry and the evolution of lending products offered since 2007, continuing use of predatory marketing practices, and other abuses identified by consumer protection advocates, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau\u2019s Office of Servicemember Affairs.\u201d \r\nAs a result of this required review of the current MLA rule, DOD in its proposal now recommends closing existing MLA loopholes.\u00a0 We believe this strikes a significantly better balance than the current MLA rule between protecting service members and their families on the one hand and maintaining access to non-predatory credit on the other.\u00a0 As such, this proposal also does a much better job of reflecting Congressional intent.\u00a0 \r\nSpecifically, we support the proposal to expand the MLA\u2019s \u201cdefinition of \u2018consumer credit\u2019 to cover a broader range of closed-end and open-end credit products.\u201d\u00a0 In so doing, the rule proposes that these products be treated in a manner generally consistent with the decades-old requirements of the Truth in Lending Act.\u00a0 \r\nThis comprehensive approach is essential to preventing future evasions.\u00a0 As DOD notes in its proposed rule, \u201cthe extremely narrow definition of \u2018consumer credit\u2019 permits creditors to structure credit products in order to reduce or avoid altogether the obligations of the MLA.\u201d\u00a0 For example, MLA protections currently can be avoided by simply adding a day to the term of a payday loan or by lending just one additional cent so that the payday loan no longer qualifies as \u201cconsumer credit\u201d subject to the MLA protections.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \r\nContrary to Congressional intent, these evasions threaten military readiness.\u00a0 According to DOD, \u201ceach separation of a service member is estimated to cost the Department $57,333, and the Department estimates that each year approximately 4,703 to 7,957 service members are involuntarily separated due to financial distress.\u201d\u00a0 In addition to the estimated cost savings DOD has identified, we give great weight and deference to DOD\u2019s statement that the proposed MLA rule \u201cwould reduce non-quantifiable costs associated with financial strains on service members. High-cost debt can detract from mission focus, reduce productivity, and require the attention of supervisors and commanders.\u201d\u00a0 As a result, we strongly agree with DOD\u2019s view that the proposed MLA rule not only has the potential to produce substantial cost savings, but also enhance military readiness. \r\nIn August of last year, a number of us wrote, \u201cservice members and their families deserve the strongest possible protections and swift action to ensure that all forms of credit offered to members of our armed forces are safe and sound.\u201d\u00a0 Indeed, as our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders.\u00a0 \r\nFor all these reasons, we strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/bellingham-herald-op-ed-climate-deal-could-help-china%E2%80%99s-smog-us-economy", "Bellingham Herald Op Ed: Climate deal could help Chinas smog, U.S. economy", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Rep. Rick Larsen\nWhile riding down a major route in Beijing in January 2013, one sight struck me: the inability to see the tops of the buildings on either side of this street. The height of the buildings was not the problem, terrible smog was. I returned home with a terrible cold exacerbated by the particulate-heavy air I breathed in Beijing and other large cities I visited on that trip to assess China's pollution problem. My assessment: It\u2019s bad.\nBut China should not attack this problem on my account and its leadership won't. It will and should because of the millions of Chinese who breathe this air every day.\u00a0Dirty air and the many problems it causes for Chinese citizens\u00a0are reasons that China experts cite pollution as a threat to Chinese Communist Party credibility. That motivating factor is surely behind China's announcement that it will actively engage on an international agreement to reduce the sources of greenhouse gas emissions.\nChina is the largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world, which makes its commitment to peaking its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 or earlier so important. As part of the deal with the U.S., China\u2019s leadership also committed to growing the country\u2019s use of non-fossil fuels by 20 percent in the same time frame. To meet its goals, China must begin to slow its rate of growth in greenhouse gases now. China can only begin this effort by increasing its use of no- and low-emission sources of energy now. This means China needs to be less coal dependent and immediately invest in renewable energy.\nThere are at least two key reasons why China's commitment is so important. First, according to one\u00a0report in the Washington Post, other countries have cited China's refusal to adopt greenhouse gas reductions as an excuse not to start their own efforts. That excuse is now gone, and I am hopeful this new agreement will set a positive course of action for other countries to follow.\nSecond, the 2015 United Nations climate change conference will take place in Paris in December, and a deal between the United States and China on greenhouse gas reduction by itself increases the likelihood of an international deal. Bringing together dozens of countries to agree on making difficult changes to their energy usage is a steep hill to climb, but it\u00a0may have become more surmountable with the U.S.-China deal. And the only real way to make meaningful progress toward mitigating the effects of climate change is for countries to work together.\nSo what will this mean for China? China will need heavy investment soon and quickly to achieve this goal. That investment will take the form of renewable and non-fossil fuel sources of energy. According to the\u00a0Energy Information Administration, hydropower makes up only 6 percent of China\u2019s energy, and all other renewables like wind and solar make up less than 1 percent of total energy production. Nuclear makes up an additional 1 percent. These numbers indicate that almost 90 percent of China's energy portfolio is fossil fuel-based, with coal making up most of that number. This is an\u00a0untenable energy mix for the Chinese people.\nAnd what does this mean for the United States? First, the agreement includes other key elements that provide the United States opportunities to assist China in its efforts. For example, expanding the Joint Clean Energy Research and Development Center sets a foundation for the future of renewable energy research. These joint efforts also will promote trade in green goods like solar panels, small hydroelectric technology and wind turbines.\nThis increased research, development, and green commerce will essentially set a stage for a broader agreement on a trade in environmental goods and services that will create jobs here at home. U.S. companies and the workers who make a living from the jobs at companies manufacturing green technology are ready, willing, and able to provide the services and make the products that grow our economy here at home while helping China achieve its goal of reducing greenhouse gases.\nThis agreement is the next step in what could be the most substantial environmental agreement in U.S. history. Along with the landmark fuel-efficiency standard agreement that decreases fossil fuel use of automobiles in the United States and the announcement that the Obama administration will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired energy plants, the U.S.-China agreement on greenhouse gas emissions forms a firm third leg in the Obama Administration's legacy to address the threat of climate change and a platform for the world to follow.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f7b672c6-1e1b-4215-9d28-29d470579fe6", "Cantwell, Murray, Kilmer, Herrera Beutler Applaud USDA Cranberry Purchase", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.25.14\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, Murray, Kilmer, Herrera Beutler Applaud USDA Cranberry Purchase \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t is home to 110 cranberry farms, 1,700 acres of farmland\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer and Jaime Herrera Beutler applauded an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approving up to $55 million nationwide to purchase up to 68 million pounds of surplus cranberry products, a move that will provide stability to Washington state cranberry growers.\r\nLast week, the delegation members sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack requesting the USDA purchase. According to the Cranberry Marketing Committee, there are 110 farms in Washington state on 1,700 acres of farmland supporting approximately 165 direct jobs and $8 million in local revenue. The purchase will be made under USDA\u2019s Section 32 program, which provides funds for USDA to purchase surplus foods from farmers for use in USDA food and nutrition programs.\r\n\u201cAs you know, in the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin cranberry production is not only important to the many family farming operations, but critical to the local and state rural economies they support,\u201d the Delegation Members wrote in the letter.\u00a0 \u201cIn these states, the industry provides significant jobs, at both the farm level and throughout the region. A successful Section 32 purchase of cranberry products will directly assist these families and regional economies in weathering the impact of the aforementioned factors on cranberry commodity prices.\u201d\r\nWashington state is the 5th largest producer of cranberries in the United States, and is expected to produce 162,000 barrels this year, which is an increase of 10,000 barrels from 2013. The state has been seeing consistently higher yields due to favorable weather conditions in cranberry-growing areas.\r\nFull text of the letter below:\r\nDear Secretary Vilsack:\r\nWe are writing in support of the recent request by U.S. cranberry growers in our states for Section 32 purchases of surplus cranberry products including cranberry concentrate, cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, and related processed products.\u00a0 With record crops over the past three years and inventories at all-time records, we are hopeful that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can approve significant Section 32 purchases in Fiscal Year 2015 for distribution to appropriate USDA food and nutrition programs.\u00a0\r\nThe industry has taken very aggressive measures over the past year to reduce existing inventories through market promotion and development activities. There is broad consensus that additional actions by USDA are needed to help address crop inventories and supply, which continue to vastly exceed the rate of growth in sales. According to recent projections by the Cranberry Marketing Committee, an expected 30 percent increase in inventory, amounting to 7.5 million barrels (750 million pounds) of cranberries, will be carried into the 2015 crop year. This inventory represents 90 percent of projected yearly sales and will place continued pressures on cranberry commodity prices, which are the lowest that they have been in nearly 15 years.\u00a0 Given the increase in production over the past three years, the projected 2014 crop\u2014which is anticipated to be the second largest crop in history\u2014and the continued growth of the industry outside of the U.S., the cranberry industry has requested that USDA consider a purchase that would remove approximately one million barrels of cranberries from inventory.\u00a0\r\nAs you know, in the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin cranberry production is not only important to the many family farming operations, but critical to the local and state rural economies they support. In these states, the industry provides significant jobs, at both the farm level and throughout the region. A successful Section 32 purchase of cranberry products will directly assist these families and regional economies in weathering the impact of the aforementioned factors on cranberry commodity prices.\r\nWe appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to working with you and the Agricultural Marketing Service to ensure the concerns of the industry are given every appropriate consideration.\u00a0 Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of assistance, and thank you in advance for your attention to our request.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://herrerabeutler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398482", "Jaime Herrera Beutler Questions U.S. Department of Interiors Decision to Advance Land Acquisition for Cowlitz Casino", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Jaime Herrera Beutler", "H001056", "herrerabeutler.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Jaime Herrera Beutler sent a letter today to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell questioning the Department\u2019s notice to take into trust 152 acres in Clark County, Washington, for the Cowlitz Tribe. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Jaime Herrera Beutler sent a letter today to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell questioning the Department\u2019s notice to take into trust 152 acres in Clark County, Washington, for the Cowlitz Tribe. The unexpected move - announced late last month - came while several Southwest Washington stakeholders that include Clark County, the City of Vancouver, and individual citizens were awaiting a court\u2019s ruling on their legal challenge to the proposal.\u201cLocal citizens and stakeholders that I represent have gone through the proper channels to challenge this authority and deserve for that process to play out before the agency acts. I will continue to fight for their voices to be heard on their day in court,\u201d said Jaime. \u201cThe Department\u2019s premature decision could have significant impacts on our community depending on the court\u2019s decision.\u201d  \nThe full text of the letter is as follows, and the original can be found by clicking here: Secretary Jewell, The Department\u2019s October 22 notice to take into trust 152 acres of land in Clark County, WA for the Cowlitz Tribe on or after January 21, 2015 has become a great source of concern and confusion in Southwest Washington.  For this acquisition to take place while the court is still considering a case to determine whether the Department even has the authority to take this land into trust is not only a major shift in the Department policy, but also potentially a violation of federal law.  In an effort to provide clarity to Southwest Washington and all affected parties I respectfully request that you answer the following questions: 1.      Why would the Interior Department approve a Class III Gaming Compact for the Cowlitz Tribe and take this land into trust before the U.S. District Court has rendered its decision in this case? 2.      Several of my constituents, including Clark County, the City of Vancouver, and individual citizens opposed to this casino, are following the appropriate legal process to challenge this trust land acquisition under the federal Administrative Procedures Act.  The Department\u2019s decision severely undermines those efforts.  Why is the Department so willing to deny my constituents their day in court?  3.      Historically, the Department has imposed a \u201cself-stay\u201d on taking land into trust during a challenge to one of its trust land decisions.  In 2013, the Department amended its regulations to permit it to take land into trust at any time, after the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians v. Patchak.  Despite this change to its long-standing self-stay policy, the Department has not engaged in any evaluation or study of the issues involved in taking land out of trust if the Department loses a trust land challenge.  There are also provisions in federal law that require the government to provide \u201cjust compensation\u201d if the United States is divested of title as a result of a judicial proceeding.  Given the fact that casino-style gaming may be operating on this land\u2014employing hundreds of people and serving thousands of patrons\u2014why has the Department not thoroughly considered the legal and practical problems involved in reversing this land transfer if it loses this case? Thank you for your attention to this important matter.  The people of Clark County and all of Southwest Washington are well aware of the potential consequences of the Department\u2019s decision and will be eagerly awaiting your response.   Sincerely, Jaime Herrera Beutler", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=402bed99-9913-4ca6-b84f-e9e9901252ac", "Murray, Isakson Lead Bipartisan Letter Pressing Army Secretary on Grave Concern Over Retirement Benefits", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In letter to Army Secretary McHugh, Senators call for immediate reversal of policy forcing officers to retire at highest enlisted rank\u00a0\r\nCurrent policy results in significant decrease in lifetime retirement benefits, for some as much as $1,000 per month or more\r\nU.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) led a bipartisan group of colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Army Secretary John McHugh over the Army\u2019s treatment of a significant number of captains and majors who are former non-commissioned officers and are being forced to retire at their highest previous enlisted rank as a result of the Army\u2019s use of Enhanced-Selective Early Retirement Boards (E-SERB). This will result in a significant decrease in lifetime retirement benefits for the impacted soldiers, for some as much as $1,000 per month or more, or just over $1 million over a 40 year retirement in the case of a captain forced to retire as a sergeant first class. \u00a0\u00a0\r\n\u201cThese former non-commissioned officers answered the Army\u2019s call for volunteers to attend Officer Candidate School as the Army expanded its officer corps to fight the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.\u00a0 Now, despite having served for years as commissioned officers and rising through the ranks to become captains and majors, these dedicated soldiers will soon be forced to retire at their highest previous enlisted rank,\u201d the Senators wrote in their letter. \u201cTo demote these soldiers in retirement is an injustice that devalues their service and will materially disadvantage them and their families for the rest of their lives\u2026 We strongly urge you to take the necessary steps to rectify this situation in order to allow these soldiers to retire at the rank they have earned and appropriately honor their service to our nation.\u201d\r\nUnder current law a soldier must serve at least 8 years of active service as a commissioned officer in order to retire as a commissioned officer.\u00a0 Soldiers who serve 20 years total, but less than 8 years as commissioned officers are retired at their highest enlisted rank.\u00a0 During the \u201cGrow the Army\u201d effort the Army dramatically increased the number of officers commissioned via its Officer Candidate School (OCS).\u00a0 The Army expanded to a post 9-11 peak of 570,000 soldiers in 2010 and is currently executing an aggressive end strength reduction designed to shrink the Army to 450,000 soldiers.\u00a0 Many of those OCS graduates are now being forced to retire through the E-SERB process as the Army shrinks.\u00a0 Officers with more than 18 years active service are screened by E-SERB and those selected will be forced to retire on the first day of the month following the month they reach 20 years of service. These former non-commissioned officers stepped up and volunteered for OCS at a time the Army badly needed officers and served honorably for between 6 and 7 years.\u00a0 Now, many are being retired at enlisted ranks they have not held in years.\u00a0 This is particularly disturbing because had they ignored the Army\u2019s call for officers most would have been promoted at least once more and been eligible to retire at a higher enlisted rank.\r\nSenators Murray and Isakson were joined in sending the letter by: Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Harkin (D-IA), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Mark Pryor (D-AR), Bernard Sanders (D-VT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).\u00a0\r\nRead a one-page summary of the issue here. \r\nThe full text of the letter is as follows:\r\nNovember 19, 2014 \r\nThe Honorable John McHughSecretary of the Army101 Army PentagonWashington, DC 20301-0101 \r\nDear Secretary McHugh:\u00a0\r\nWe write to express our grave concern over the Army\u2019s treatment of a significant number of Army captains and majors who are former non-commissioned officers.\u00a0\u00a0 These former non-commissioned officers answered the Army\u2019s call for volunteers to attend Officer Candidate School as the Army expanded its officer corps to fight the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.\u00a0 Now, despite having served for years as commissioned officers and rising through the ranks to become captains and majors, these dedicated soldiers will soon be forced to retire at their highest previous enlisted rank.\u00a0 This will result in a significant decrease in lifetime retirement benefits for the impacted soldiers, approximately $1,000 per month or just over $1 million over a 40 year retirement in the case of a captain forced to retire as a sergeant first class.\u00a0 This is simply unacceptable.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nThese former non-commissioned officers have been placed in this untenable position as a result of the Army\u2019s use of Enhanced-Selective Early Retirement Boards (E-SERB).\u00a0 Officers selected by the boards are forced to retire as soon as they reach 20 years of service. Unfortunately, under current law a soldier must serve at least 8 years of active service as a commissioned officer in order to retire as a commissioned officer.\u00a0 Soldiers who serve 20 years total, but less than 8 years as commissioned officers are retired at their highest enlisted rank.\u00a0 While this requirement makes sense in the case of soldiers who choose to retire, are passed over for multiple promotions, or are forced to retire due to misconduct, none of those cases applies to the soldiers in question.\u00a0 On the contrary, Army Human Resources Command has explicitly acknowledged that E-SERB will separate fully qualified officers \u201cwho have rendered quality service to the nation.\u201d\u00a0 To demote these soldiers in retirement is an injustice that devalues their service and will materially disadvantage them and their families for the rest of their lives.\r\nRather than forcing these officers to retire as soon as they reach 20 years of service, the Army could modify its E-SERB policy to delay the mandatory retirement date of affected soldiers until the first month after they become eligible to retire as commissioned officers.\u00a0 For many of the affected soldiers this would extend their time in service by only a few months.\u00a0 We strongly urge you to take the necessary steps to rectify this situation in order to allow these soldiers to retire at the rank they have earned and appropriately honor their service to our nation. \r\nSincerely,\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \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\nPatty MurrayUnited States Senator\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \r\nJohnny IsaksonUnited States Senator", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=f05c5c7e-13ff-4cf0-8b93-afdc3c08c90e", "AGRICULTURE: Murray, Cantwell, Kilmer, Herrera Beutler Applaud USDA Cranberry Purchase", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Delegation Members wrote letter to Sec. Vilsack supporting the purchase last week\r\nWASHIGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer and Jaime Herrera Beutler applauded an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approving up to $55 million nationwide to purchase up to 68 million pounds of surplus cranberry products, a move that will provide stability to Washington state cranberry growers. \r\nLast week, the delegation members sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack requesting the USDA purchase. According to the Cranberry Marketing Committee, there are 110 farms in Washington state on 1,700 acres of farmland supporting approximately 165 direct jobs and $8 million in local revenue. The purchase will be made under USDA\u2019s Section 32 program, which provides funds for USDA to purchase surplus foods from farmers for use in USDA food and nutrition programs. \r\n\u201cAs you know, in the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin cranberry production is not only important to the many family farming operations, but critical to the local and state rural economies they support,\u201d the Delegation Members wrote in the letter.\u00a0 \u201cIn these states, the industry provides significant jobs, at both the farm level and throughout the region. A successful Section 32 purchase of cranberry products will directly assist these families and regional economies in weathering the impact of the aforementioned factors on cranberry commodity prices.\u201d \r\nWashington state is the 5th largest producer of cranberries in the United States, and is expected to produce 162,000 barrels this year, which is an increase of 10,000 barrels from 2013. The state has been seeing consistently higher yields due to favorable weather conditions in cranberry-growing areas. \r\nFull text of the letter below: \r\nDear Secretary Vilsack: \r\nWe are writing in support of the recent request by U.S. cranberry growers in our states for Section 32 purchases of surplus cranberry products including cranberry concentrate, cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, and related processed products.\u00a0 With record crops over the past three years and inventories at all-time records, we are hopeful that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can approve significant Section 32 purchases in Fiscal Year 2015 for distribution to appropriate USDA food and nutrition programs.\u00a0 \r\nThe industry has taken very aggressive measures over the past year to reduce existing inventories through market promotion and development activities. There is broad consensus that additional actions by USDA are needed to help address crop inventories and supply, which continue to vastly exceed the rate of growth in sales. According to recent projections by the Cranberry Marketing Committee, an expected 30 percent increase in inventory, amounting to 7.5 million barrels (750 million pounds) of cranberries, will be carried into the 2015 crop year. This inventory represents 90 percent of projected yearly sales and will place continued pressures on cranberry commodity prices, which are the lowest that they have been in nearly 15 years.\u00a0 Given the increase in production over the past three years, the projected 2014 crop\u2014which is anticipated to be the second largest crop in history\u2014and the continued growth of the industry outside of the U.S., the cranberry industry has requested that USDA consider a purchase that would remove approximately one million barrels of cranberries from inventory.\u00a0 \r\nAs you know, in the states of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin cranberry production is not only important to the many family farming operations, but critical to the local and state rural economies they support. In these states, the industry provides significant jobs, at both the farm level and throughout the region. A successful Section 32 purchase of cranberry products will directly assist these families and regional economies in weathering the impact of the aforementioned factors on cranberry commodity prices. \r\nWe appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to working with you and the Agricultural Marketing Service to ensure the concerns of the industry are given every appropriate consideration.\u00a0 Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of assistance, and thank you in advance for your attention to our request.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-even-new-protections-time-now-comprehensive-immigration-reform", "Larsen: Even With New Protections, Time is Now For Comprehensive Immigration Reform", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, released the following statement tonight about President Obama\u2019s executive order to defer deportation for parents of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents who have been in the U.S. for more than five years and meet certain requirements, and expand the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Larsen also called again for comprehensive immigration reform. He is\u00a0an original cosponsor of H.R. 15, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act.\n\u00a0\n\u201cI understand the President\u2019s decision today to defer deportation for millions of immigrants here illegally who have children who are American citizens or legal residents. Our country\u2019s immigration system should not focus on tearing families apart, but instead on upholding national security and public safety. That is one of many reasons why the real solution to the complex issue of immigration must be comprehensive, like the reform bill\u00a0I have long supported.\n\u00a0\n\u201cRepublicans should channel their outrage about the President\u2019s decision into voting on the bipartisan comprehensive reform bill the Senate already passed. The President has said Congressional action would override his executive order, so there is a clear solution to Republicans\u2019 indignation \u2013 let the House vote.\n\u00a0\n\u201cBecause of House Republicans\u2019 inaction, I\u00a0asked the President earlier this year\u00a0to consider expanding prosecutorial discretion guidelines that account for ties immigrants have here, like close family members in the U.S. who are citizens, legal permanent residents, or\u00a0DREAMers. I support steps like this within the confines of the law that focus resources on those who pose a threat to public safety, not separating families,\" Larsen said.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-executive-action-takes-positive-steps-real-solution-comprehensive-reform", "Larsen: Executive Action Takes Positive Steps; Real Solution is Comprehensive Reform", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014President Obama\u2019s executive action to reform the U.S. immigration system takes positive steps to keep families together, better focus law enforcement resources on upholding public safety and national security, and update opportunities for high-skill workers and entrepreneurs, Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, said today in a statement. He also called again for comprehensive immigration reform legislation as the true solution to the complicated immigration issue in the U.S.\n\u201cPresident Obama\u2019s decision to refocus our country\u2019s immigration enforcement resources will help keep families together, better direct law enforcement resources to upholding public safety and national security, and update opportunities and processes for high-skill workers and entrepreneurs. But these actions cannot be the end of our country\u2019s conversation about immigration reform. The real solution to the complex issue of immigration must be comprehensive and permanent, like the reform bill I have long supported.\n\u201cIn Northwest Washington, I know there are many young undocumented immigrants who want to pursue their education so they can contribute to our country. I have also talked with members of cultural communities who have shared with me why they brought their families to the U.S. And business owners and workers have given me their views on visa reform. The President\u2019s actions take steps to address these concerns for those in the Pacific Northwest and across the country to expand people\u2019s opportunities and grow our economy.\n\u201cThe centerpiece of the President\u2019s plan defers deportations for parents of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents who have been in the U.S. for more than five years and expands the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Eligible parents will need to register, pass criminal and national security background checks, and start paying taxes. They can apply for a three-year period of deferred action and will be able to apply for work permits. Ending these families\u2019 constant fears of separation will enable them to more easily participate in our communities and our society.\n\u201cI am pleased to see the end of the Secure Communities program, which used a dragnet approach to detain people for suspected immigration violations. I asked the administration last summer to reconsider these practices, as courts have ruled that detaining someone without probable cause violates the Constitution. Communities stand to benefit from the new proposal that will focus resources instead on people who have been convicted of serious crimes or may be a threat to national security. I am hopeful this change will improve immigrant communities\u2019 trust in local police and make much better use of the limited resources we have for immigration enforcement.\n\u201cThe President\u2019s plan expands work opportunities for people who have graduated from U.S. universities with degrees in science, technology, engineering and math, increases flexibility for high-skill workers and their spouses whose employers are sponsoring them for permanent residency, and increases the chances for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and contribute to our economy.\n\u201cWe are a nation of immigrants, and no matter where in the world we got our start, we all are looking for similar things: a good education, a safe place for our families, opportunities to contribute to our communities, and meaningful work. The future of our economy depends on a pro-growth, efficient and fair immigration system.\n\u201cEven as millions of families now have protection against being separated from their loved ones, now is the time to allow a vote on comprehensive immigration reform to create clear, legal pathways to legal residency for those who wish to come here and contribute to our nation,\u201d Larsen said.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/reichert-statement-presidents-executive-action-immigration", "Reichert Statement on President's Executive Action on Immigration", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Republican", "House", "WA", "Dave Reichert", "R000578", "reichert.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8) issued the following statement in response to the president's announcement that he would be taking executive action on immigration:\n\u201cLast night, President Obama announced his plan for immigration to the nation. It is deeply concerning to me that the President has chosen to independently pursue a course of action on this issue without consultation with Congress. \u00a0I believe that our immigration system is broken and that we can find and must find a solution, but it is not up to the President to do it alone. Congress and the President must work together to find an effective solution, and that can only happen if we first address the problems with our border security and collaborate to help those pursuing the American dream come out of the shadows. This is what we were elected to do.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5ea81f9a-586e-43fb-942c-5a4b938d7165", "Cantwell, Murray, Smith Call on DOE to Take Immediate Action to Protect Hanford Workers", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. Representative Adam Smith sent a letter to Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz calling on him to take immediate action to protect the workforce at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation by implementing the recommendations of the Hanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report without delay.\r\nAfter multiple instances since March of workers experiencing chemical vapor exposures in or near the tank farms, Sens. Murray and Cantwell and Rep. Smith have engaged with all levels of DOE, its contractor, and constituents to determine the reason for the exposures, their impact, and the precautions necessary to protect the workforce.\u00a0 On April 25, at the direction of the Department of Energy, its contractor tasked the Savannah River National Laboratory to lead an independent review by experts of the current chemical vapors practices at Hanford and provide recommendations to minimize workforce exposure and increase protections. \u00a0The delegation members wrote to Secretary Moniz urging him to ensure immediate implementation of these recommendations.\r\n\u201cWhile we are pleased that the Savannah River National Laboratory was quickly tasked to lead a review of current chemical vapors practices and make recommendations to minimize worker exposure and increase protections, it is now time for DOE to take swift and definitive actions to implement the recommendations within the Report,\u201d the delegation members wrote in the letter. \r\nFull text of the letter below: \r\nDear Secretary Moniz: \r\nWe write to call on the Department of Energy (DOE) to take immediate action to protect the workforce at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation in Washington state by implementing the recommendations of the Hanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report (Report) without delay.\u00a0 Nothing less than a complete commitment to safety at Hanford is acceptable. \r\nWe understand that chemicals in the nuclear waste stored in single shell and double shell tank farms creates vapors that are vented into the atmosphere through various measures and that this tank breathing process ensures the waste inside the tanks remains stable.\u00a0 However, we owe the men and women who work in the tank farms the highest safety standards to protect them from these hazards. \r\nSince March, we have closely followed the chemical vapor exposures experienced by 55 workers inside or near the single shell and double shell tank farms.\u00a0 We have engaged with all levels of DOE, its contractor, and our constituents to determine the reason for the exposures, their impact, and the precautions necessary to protect the workforce.\u00a0 While we are pleased that the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) was quickly tasked to lead a review of current chemical vapors practices and make recommendations to minimize worker exposure and increase protections, it is now time for DOE to take swift and definitive actions to implement the recommendations within the Report. \r\nThis new, in-depth analysis of workforce experiences, record reviews, site visits, engineering data, and computational modeling by a panel of independent experts found that there is a \u201ccausal link between chemical vapor releases and subsequent health effects, particularly upper respiratory irritation, experienced by tank farm workers.\u201d[1]\u00a0 It further found that the \u201cadverse health effects are likely caused by acute, transitory exposures to relatively high concentrations of chemicals.\u201d[2]\u00a0 While the Report highlights that DOE and its contractor have industrial hygiene (IH) programs in place to protect against long-term health effects based on cumulative or ongoing chemical vapor exposures and on the Occupational Exposure Limit,[3] the Report clearly outlines that the \u201ccurrent program is not designed to detect and is incapable of detecting and quantifying this type of transient exposure event\u201d[4] and \u201ccannot adequately address the complex and episodic nature of the Hanford tank vapor incidents.\u201d[5] \r\nGiven this Report, we urge DOE to fully recognize the shortfalls within the existing IH programs and address them immediately.\u00a0 The Report makes 10 overarching recommendations and 46 supporting recommendations to improve the IH programs to better detect chemical vapors, control them, and protect the workforce today and into the future.\u00a0 We appreciate that DOE and its contractor have already begun implementing certain recommendations; however, it is critical that DOE continue to move forward with implementing the remaining recommendations as quickly as possible. \r\nAccording to the Report and our communication with DOE and its contractor since its release, an implementation plan responding to the recommendations is forthcoming and will be reviewed by the SRNL panel to validate the plan and ensure the recommendations are implemented correctly and effectively.\u00a0 When will this implementation plan be completed?\u00a0 In addition to addressing the recommendations, we request that the implementation plan include a clear schedule for the near-, mid-, and long-term recommendations and the resources necessary to carry them out successfully.\u00a0 Furthermore, we encourage you to add a specific line item into the Fiscal Year 2016 budget request and beyond to ensure funding for the implementation plan.\u00a0 DOE should also clearly outline a \u201cprocess to monitor, document, and report progress and assure continuous improvement\u201d[6] as recommended by the Report.\u00a0 Finally, we urge DOE to institutionalize the improvements in workforce safety that result from this process, to ensure that lessons learned and best practices gained continue from contractor to contractor. \r\nWe appreciate your commitment to this matter, the actions you have already taken, and we urge you to take the steps necessary to not only improve the working conditions for workers in the tank farms today, but also for those who will work at Hanford in the future. \r\nThank you for your attention to this important issue.\r\n  \r\n\r\n[1] Savannah River National Laboratory, \u201cHanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report,\u201d October 30, 2014, Page 9.\r\n\r\n\r\n[2] Savannah River National Laboratory, \u201cHanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report,\u201d October 30, 2014, Page 13.\r\n\r\n\r\n[3] Savannah River National Laboratory, \u201cHanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report,\u201d October 30, 2014, Page 17.\r\n\r\n\r\n[4] Savannah River National Laboratory, \u201cHanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report,\u201d October 30, 2014, Page 17.\r\n\r\n\r\n[5] Savannah River National Laboratory, \u201cHanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report,\u201d October 30, 2014, Page 15.\r\n\r\n\r\n[6] Savannah River National Laboratory, \u201cHanford Tank Vapor Assessment Report,\u201d October 30, 2014, Page 16.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 1353, "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 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