{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"WI\" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://grothman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=495", "Grothman Supports Tax Cuts for American Families and Businesses", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Glenn Grothman", "G000576", "grothman.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) today issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act to modernize the tax code, make Americas business climate more competitive and deliver tax relief to American families and workers.\r\nThe Tax Cuts & Jobs Act is good for the American people and encourages a strong economy.\r\nI feel the tax cuts in this version of the bill are targeted at the working middle class  a change from original proposals  and I feel like my voice was heard in making these changes. Im especially happy that House and Senate leaders reinstated the medical expense deduction, a deduction used by folks in the most dire of circumstances.\r\nThe bill also shifted from a bill that benefited investors to one that more targets working people. The changes in the conference bill regarding state and local taxes will be of particular benefit to Wisconsin taxpayers, and virtually all taxpayers who make less than $100,000 should receive a tax cut.\r\nIm glad were standing up to Wall Street hedge managers in this bill by working to close the carried interest loophole. This change is needed in order to ensure that that these managers do not pay a lower rate on their commission income. I look forward to making further changes in this area.\r\nAdditionally, since I got this job, I have worked to reduce fraud in the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit  something this bill also addresses.\r\nAbove all, the goal of tax reform is to improve the economy by lowering business taxes to stimulate spending and job creation and modernizing our countrys international tax system. Everyone should remember that personal retirement accounts and pensions will also benefit from the passing of this bill  as we have already seen in the historic gains of the stock market over the past year in anticipation of passage.\r\nIt is frustrating that I tried to work with Democrats, especially on the estate tax, to ensure it was as bipartisan a bill as possible. But, I believe many members of the other party just decided to vote no and not be part of the process.\r\nIts also especially frustrating that Democrats are critical of lowering the corporate tax rate considering President Obama asked Congress to do just that in 2012, even including a preferential rate for manufacturing. Our current corporate tax rate is the highest in the industrialized world at 35 percent. By lowering it to 21 percent, we make the U.S. more competitive for business.\r\nIt just goes to show that Democrats are focusing on partisanship over American workers and families. I do hope my Democratic colleagues have a change of heart, and I look forward to working with them on the technical corrections bill which will be taken up in the spring.\r\nThe Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed the House by a vote of 227-203.\r\nBackground\r\nThe Tax Cuts and Jobs Act benefits individuals and families by lowering individual taxes and expanding tax brackets; expanding the Child Tax Credit; eliminating the Obamacare individual mandate penalty tax so that families can make the health insurance decisions that are best for them; retaining retirement savings options like 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts; continuing to allow people to write off the cost of state and local taxes up to $10,000; and expanding the medical expense deduction, among other measures to make the tax code simpler and fairer.\r\nAdditionally, a typical family of four earning the median family income of $73,000 will receive a tax cut of $2,059 with this bill.\r\nThe Tax Cuts and Jobs Act benefits job creators and stimulates the economy by lowering the corporate tax rate from the highest rate in the industrialized world and making the U.S. more competitive for business; protecting the ability of small businesses to write off interest on loans to help them to expand their businesses; modernizing our international tax system; and preventing American jobs, headquarters and research from moving overseas by eliminating incentives that reward companies for moving operations overseas, among other measures to put more money back in the pockets of small business owners and make the U.S. business climate more competitive globally.\r\nFor a detailed summary of whats included in the bill, please click here. To read the text of the bill in its entirety, please click here.\r\n\r\n###\r\nU.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman is serving his second term representing Wisconsins 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/photo/17-photos-2017", "17 Photos from 2017", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "From bigpublic ceremonies to small personal moments, the Office of the Speaker takes approximately 30,000 photos each year. Narrowing those down to just a few of our favorites is no easy task, but in chronological order,these seventeen photos tell the story of 2017 for Speaker Ryan.\n1. Look your best -Speaker Ryan helps his oldest son, Charlie, get ready for Opening Day of the 115th Congress.\n2. The Speaker of the House -Speaker Ryan raises the gavel in gratitude to the 115th Congress.\n3.The Peaceful Transfer of Power- Speaker Ryanwaves goodbyefrom the steps of the U.S. Capitol as President Obama departs.\n4. Boots at the Border - Speaker Ryan tours the Rio Grande Valley to observe border security operations.\n5.Vice President Pence He may serve as the Vice President, as well as the president of the Senate, but he will always have a home in the House of Representatives.\n6. Reining in Regulations - Speaker Ryan signs a series of Congressional Review Acts, putting an end to some of the worst Obama-era regulations.\n7. Friends of Ireland- Speaker Ryan, Taoiseach Kenny of Ireland, and Rep. Peter King (R-NY) welcome President Trump and Vice President Pence to the Capitol for the annual Friends of Ireland luncheon started by President Reagan and Speaker O'Neill.\n8. As far as the eye can see - Speaker Ryan makes phone calls from his office overlooking the National Mall.\n9. Accountability for our veterans - Speaker Ryan signs and sends major bipartisan VA reform legislation to the president's desk.\n10.You were just released from the hospital today?! Special Agent Crystal Griner surprises the crowd, and the speaker, when she shows up at theCongressional Womens Softball Gameto throw out the first pitch, the very same day she was released from the hospital after taking a bullet in the Alexandria shooting.\n11. The Big Six - Speaker Ryan meets with Senator Hatch, Leader McConnell, Rep. Brady, Secretary Mnuchin, and Gary Cohn (on the phone), to discuss tax reform.\n12. Drone on - At one of his many tours of American manufacturing companies, Speaker Ryan flies a drone poweredby Intel. (Click here for video.)\n13. Hurricane Irma-Speaker Ryan looks out the back of a C-130 tosurvey Hurricane Irmas devastationalong the Florida Keys.\n14. Scalise Strong -Speaker Ryan greets Majority Whip Steve Scalise upon his return to the Peoples House after being shot in June while practicing for the Congressional Baseball Game.\n15. A Big Tree from Big Sky Country -This year's Capitol Christmas Tree comes all the way from theKootenai National Forest in Montana.\n16. A Promise Kept - Members of Congress gather at the White House to mark the passage the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\n17. Signed. Sealed. Delivered. Accompanied by Sen. Orrin Hatch, Senate president pro tempore,Speaker Ryan signs theTax Cuts and Jobs Act, sending the legislation to the presidents desk to become law of the land.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/photo/month-was-merry-and-bright", "A Month that was Merry and Bright", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In true December fashion, this month was one of the busiest, and most festive, months of the year. While the halls of the Hill were often abuzz with tax reform-related activities, Members of Congress and staff also took the time to celebrate all that comes with the holiday season. We saw the Capitol Christmas Tree take its rightful place on the West Front, the Speaker lit the office Menorah, and more.\nHere are eight photos that show our favorite moments from the month of December:\n1.They said it couldnt be done. Speaker Ryan and fellow House leaders speak to members of the press following the Houses passage of historic, pro-growth tax reform legislation.\n2.Signed. Sealed. (Almost) Delivered. Accompanied by Sen. Orrin Hatch, Senate president pro tempore, Speaker Ryan signs theTax Cuts and Jobs Act, sending the legislation to the presidents desk.\n3.Good job, bud. Congress passed the largest reform of our countrys tax code in 31 years. During a White House ceremony celebrating Congresss passage of theTax Cuts and Jobs Act, Speaker Ryan and Vice President Pence take a moment to soak it all in.\n4.Its lit. Speaker Ryan and 11-year-old Montanan Ridley Brandmayr light the Capitol Christmas Tree. This years tree comes from the Kootenai National Forest in Montana.\n5.Its lit, too. Surrounded by servicemembers of the Jewish faith, Speaker Ryan lights the office Menorah on the first night of Hanukkah.\n6.We did it! President Trump congratulates Speaker Ryan on a job well done at a White House ceremony celebrating the passage of the largest reform of our countrys tax code in a generation.\n7.Merry Christmas, and thank you for your service. Speaker Ryan writes Christmas cards to some of our nations active duty servicemembers at an event hosted by the American Red Cross.\n8.And you get a kringle! Speaker Ryan gifts Vice President Pence with a Racine, Wisconsin-made kringle, a Danish pastry, for Christmas.\nAnd because it never gets old, heres one last(?) picture of the Capitol Christmas Tree with the lit Capitol Dome. Happy Holidays!", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://paulryan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398774", "Ryan Nominates Students for Military Service Academies", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "paulryan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today,Wisconsins First District Congressman and Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, announced the 16 students in the First District who would be receiving nominations for appointments to the U.S. service academies. Young men and women who wish to attend a U.S. service academy must obtain a nomination from an authorized nominating source, such as a member of Congress. \r\nOf this years nominees, Ryan said: \r\nMilitary service is an honorable calling. Americas service academies have the highest standards of excellence, and I am proud to nominate these students from Wisconsins First District. I am more than confident that they will rise to the challenge. Should they be accepted, they will represent their state and their nation with pride. \r\nSelecting these nominees was a very tough job, and for that reason, I want to thank the members of my Service Academy Nomination Advisory (SANA) Board for their advice and hard work. \r\nThe SANA Board interviewed and evaluated applicants from the First District early this month. Consisting of veterans, academy graduates, and educators, the SANA Board was appointed by Ryan to assist him with identifying the most qualified applicants. First District applicants are typically in the top tier of their class, are active in their communities, and demonstrate great potential for leadership.\r\nA list of the students nominated by Congressman Ryan follows (photographs available upon request):\r\nKenosha County\r\nMason French  attends Tremper High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nPaul Gierl  attends St. Joseph Catholic Academy, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nColten Greenhill  attends Westosha Central High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nFredrick Zuehls  attends Wilmot Union High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nMilwaukee County\r\nAaron Craig  attends Oak Creek High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO)\r\nCorrine Kurz  attends Oak Creek High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Military Academy (West Point, NY)\r\nRacine County\r\nMorgan Heeren  attends Waterford Union High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO)\r\nJoshua Stroo  attends Union Grove High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO)\r\nWalworth County\r\nCarson Hillier  attends Badger High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nWaukesha County\r\nClarice Adams  attends Mukwonago High School, nominated for appointments to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD), the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, NY), and the U.S. Military Academy (West Point, NY)\r\nJacob Bane  attends Norwich University (2016 graduate of Mukwonago High School), nominated for appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nMadison Black  resides in Mukwonago and attends Catholic Memorial High School, nominated for appointments to the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD) and the U.S. Military Academy (West Point, NY) \r\nAliyah Brown attends Eisenhower High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO) \r\nLiam Dolan attends the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2017 graduate of Mukwonago High School), nominated for appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO) and the U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis, MD)\r\nJack Rohlinger attends Muskego High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO) \r\nMason Schoof attends Muskego High School, nominated for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs, CO)", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/weau-senator-tammy-baldwin-introduces-legislation-to-grow-international-education-system", "WEAU: Senator Tammy Baldwin Introduces Legislation to Grow International Education System", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/wsaw-senator-tammy-baldwin-announces-truax-field-to-house-f-35s", "WSAW: Senator Tammy Baldwin Announces Truax Field to House F-35s", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/baldwin-bipartisan-legislation-help-halt-flow-of-fentanyl", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on President Trump to Sign Bipartisan Legislation Passed by Congress to Help Halt Flow of Illicit Fentanyl into the United States", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on President Trump to Sign Bipartisan Legislation Passed by Congress to Help Halt Flow of Illicit Fentanyl into the United States \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 Baldwin supported bipartisan legislation will help promote the latest in chemical screening devices and scientific support to detect and intercept fentanyl and other synthetic opioids\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Bipartisan legislation cosponsored by U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin passed the Senate last night and she is calling on President Trump to quickly sign it into law. The INTERDICT Act, would provide U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) tools such as hi-tech chemical screening devices to help detect and interdict fentanyl and other illicit synthetic opioids\r\nThe growing crisis of fentanyl and opioid abuse is hurting families and taking lives at alarming rates both in Wisconsin and across our country, said Senator Baldwin. We must do more to combat this epidemic. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that Customs and Border Protection officers have the tools they need to help stop fentanyl from entering our communities.\r\nThis spring, Senator Baldwin held a roundtable in Milwaukee on the fentanyl crisis. Senator Baldwin brought together health care providers, the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner and Wisconsinites working on the front lines to combat this crisis to discuss how illicit fentanyl is impacting Wisconsin. In 2016, Milwaukee County saw 97 deaths related to fentanyl  an increase of 223% from 2015.\r\nIn 2016, CBP seized nearly 200 pounds of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids like fentanyl, primarily from along the southwest border. This is a 25-fold increase over seizures in 2015. Between 2014 and 2015, deaths involving synthetic opioids, which include fentanyl, increased by 72%, taking more than 9,500 lives. Mexico is the primary source for illicit fentanyl trafficked into the United States, while distributors in China are the principal source of the precursor chemicals used to manufacture the drug, as well as a source for finished-product illicit fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, which are often shipped to the United States through the mail and express consignment carriers.\r\nSpecifically, the INTERDICT Act:\r\n \r\nEnsures that CBP will have additional portable chemical screening devices available at ports of entry and mail and express consignment facilities, and additional fixed chemical screening devices available in CBP laboratories.\r\n \r\n \r\nProvides CBP with sufficient resources, personnel, and facilities  including scientists available during all operational hours  to interpret screening test results from the field.\r\n \r\n \r\nAuthorizes the appropriation of $9 million for hundreds of new screening devices, laboratory equipment, facilities, and personnel for support during all operational hours.\r\n \r\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/baldwin-calls-on-administration-to-rescind-rule-denying-women-access-to-birth-control", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on Trump Administration to Rescind Rule Denying Women Access to Birth Control Coverage", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls on Trump Administration to Rescind Rule Denying Women Access to Birth Control Coverage \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 Overwhelming Opposition to Rule in Public Comments from American Women; Birth Control Coverage of over 60 Million at Risk\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin joined her colleagues in sending a letter to Acting Health and Human Services Secretary Eric Hargan, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin highlighting the hundreds of thousands of comments in opposition to the Trump administrations interim final rule (IFR) significantly weakening the contraceptive requirements in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).\r\nThe letter, led by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), calls on the Administration to rescind the rule, and requested answers on how it will address the impact that undermining birth control coverage will have on womens health and economic freedoms.\r\nOne commenter wrote, My husband and I would not be able to handle a child today or in the near future while I pursue my career, and birth control keeps me as a productive member of societyTaking away birth control protections is a huge mistake for someone who claims to want a better economy.\r\nAccording to another, As someone with PCOS, a hormonal disorder that causes my ovaries to create cysts rather than eggs that potentially turn into cancerous tumors, birth control is essential to my treatment. The Senators letter includes more personal anecdotes from commenters, demonstrating the vital role that birth control plays in Americans lives.\r\n\"Because of the ACA requirement that insurers cover birth control, millions of women have now gained access to contraceptive coverage. But the new IFRs issued by the Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury Departments permit employers and universities to claim broad religious or moral exemptions to covering birth control. They also make the religious accommodation process voluntaryplacing the birth control coverage of over 62.4 million American women at risk,wrote the Senators.\r\nMore than 500,000 commenters have expressed their opposition to the Administrations birth control IFRs to the Department of Health and Human Services alone, with thousands more writing in to the Departments of Labor and Treasury. A federal court has halted their enforcement.\r\nIn addition to rescinding the rule, the Senators called on the Departments to provide answers on how they will address the threat posed by the IFRs to the economic and health benefits of birth control coverage no later than January 5, 2018.\r\nIn addition to Senators Baldwin, Warren and Murray, the letter was also signed by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Al Franken (D-MN).\r\nText of the letter is available here. \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Press Release\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/baldwin-joins-colleagues-asking-dea-doj-tools-combat-opioid-epidemic", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues in Asking DEA, DOJ What Tools They Need To Combat Opioid Epidemic", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues in Asking DEA, DOJ What Tools They Need To Combat Opioid Epidemic \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 Senators Letter Follows Washington Post, 60 Minutes Investigation, Committee on Judiciary Oversight Hearing\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin joined her Senate colleagues this week in asking the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) what tools they need to most aggressively target the ongoing opioid epidemic. The letter follows a Washington Post/60 Minutes investigation into the impact of the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act on DEAs ability to combat opioid addiction, and subsequent testimony from DEA officials that the law needs to be changed.\r\nIt is critical that we have the information required to evaluate this law and make necessary revisions to update and improve the law to ensure the DEA retains all the tools necessary to aggressively prevent the diversion of opioids, wrote the Senators in their letter.\r\nLast week, the Senate Committee on the Judiciary held an oversight hearing on the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act, where DEA representatives testified that the law should be amended in order to ensure the agency has all the tools necessary to aggressively combat the addiction epidemic. When pressed during the hearing on exactly what changes the DEA needs, officials were unable to provide any suggestions. Brown and Durbins letter urges the DOJ and DEA to work together to provide a written list of suggested changes to update and improve the 2016 law.\r\nCurrent law also requires the Secretary of the Department of Human Services (HHS) and DEA Administrator to submit a report to Congress identifying any residual issues with diversion efforts, including information on whether coordination between the industry and law enforcement has helped with diversion. This report was due in April 2017, but has not yet been submitted to Congress. Brown, Durbin, and several of their colleagues wrote to HHS and DEA in October demanding this report. The Senators letter reiterates this report is past-due and the Senators must have this information so they can determine how the best ensure DEA has the tools it needs to fight the opioid epidemic.\r\nLed by Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), the letter was also signed by Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ed Markey (D-MA).\r\n\r\nFull text of the Senators letter is below and available here. \r\n\r\nThe Honorable Jeff Sessions\r\nAttorney General\r\nUnited States Department of Justice\r\n950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\r\nWashington, DC 20530\r\n\r\nActing Administrator Robert Patterson\r\nUnited States Drug Enforcement Agency\r\n8701 Morrissette Drive\r\nSpringfield, VA 22152\r\n\r\nDear Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Acting Administrator Patterson:\r\nOn December 12, 2017, the Senate Committee on the Judiciary held an oversight hearing to discuss the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act (P.L. 114-145), legislation that was signed into law in April of 2016. During this hearing, the Acting Assistant Administrator for the Diversion Control Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Ms. Demetra Ashley, testified that changes to the 2016 law are necessary in order to ensure the DEA has all the tools necessary to combat the opioid epidemic. We urge you to provide, in writing, a list of the specific changes that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and DEA would recommend making to P.L. 114-145 to ensure the DEA has the tools necessary to act proactively and aggressively in combatting our nations addiction epidemic.\r\nAs you are aware, two months ago, The Washington Post published an article entitled The Drug Industrys Triumph Over the DEA and CBS released a related 60 Minutes expos highlighting the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act and its impact on the DEAs capacity to participate fully in the war against addiction. On October 16, 2017, several Senators introduced legislation to repeal this 2016 law. On October 20, 2017, one-third of the Senate wrote to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and DEA to request an update on the laws impact and a summary of any challenges in diversion control caused by the laws passage. This letter also demanded that HHS and DEA fulfill their statutory obligation and submit an official Report to Congress identifying any residual issues with diversion of controlled substances and strategies to reduce the volume of opioids on the market. That same day, Senator Hatch and Senator Cassidy, two of the original authors of the 2016 law, wrote a similar letter urging HHS and DEA to promptly submit the required report.\r\nOn November 28, 2017, Senator McCaskill hosted a Senate roundtable to discuss the 2016 law, and on December 12, 2017, the Judiciary Committee held its oversight hearing on the law. It was at this Judiciary Committee hearing  nearly two months after the initial news reports criticizing the law and more than a year after the laws implementation  that a current representative of the DEA, Ms. Ashley, suggested Congress revise the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act. Despite not articulating specific changes in written testimony, nor in response to several questions, Ms. Ashley at one point indicated that the terms immediate and substantial likelihood in the laws definition of imminent danger created unintended consequences for DEAs enforcement authority.We write to confirm whether recommending changes to these statutory terms are DEAs official position with respect to amending the 2016 law.\r\nNotwithstanding this singular acknowledgment, DOJ and DEA have failed to provide Congress with any substantive guidance and/or technical assistance for statutory revisions necessary to prevent the diversion and abuse of controlled substances  not at last weeks Judiciary Committee hearing, nor in any written correspondence to date. This law passed over a year and a half ago, and we are more than eight months past the statutory deadline for a required Report to Congress; the silence from DOJ, DEA, and HHS is deafening. As it was said at last weeks Judiciary Committee hearing: Congress cannot understand what youre requesting if the agency doesnt request it clearly and with language attached.\r\nIt is critical that we have the information required to evaluate this law and make necessary revisions to update and improve the law to ensure the DEA retains all the tools necessary to aggressively prevent the diversion of opioids. We urge DOJ and DEA to act swiftly to assemble and provide Congress with a written list of suggested improvements to the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act by no later than January 19, 2018, and to work with the Acting Secretary of HHS to provide the Report to Congress required by Section 3 of P.L. 114-145 as soon as possible.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-calls-for-hearings-on-challenges-facing-puerto-rico-and-virgin-islands", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls for Hearings on Health and Education Challenges Facing Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands Following Hurricanes Irma, Maria", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls for Hearings on Health and Education Challenges Facing Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands Following Hurricanes Irma, Maria \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined her colleagues in sending a letter to HELP Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-TN) to request that the Committee hold hearings to assess the challenges facing the health and educational systems of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Maria.\r\nNoting the extensive damage caused by the hurricanes to the islands' education and public health infrastructures, the letter, led by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA), urged Chairman Alexander to hold hearings to address these issues and to evaluate the relief provided by the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Education, both of which fall under the HELP Committee's jurisdiction.\r\nGiven the extent of the damage inflicted upon both territories, as well as the important roles of the departments under this committee's jurisdiction in ongoing hurricane relief efforts, we believe such hearings would be an important part of the Committee's oversight related to hurricane recovery,the Senators wrote. Hearings could help ensure that the Senate has a detailed understanding of the health and education challenges facing Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as an understanding of how Departments under the Committee's purview have provided relief, and how they can improve relief efforts.\r\nThe HELP Committee has not yet held any hearings on how the two territories have been affected by the storms.\r\nSenators Baldwin, Warren and Cassidy were joined by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Casey (D-PA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) in sending the letter.\r\nFull text of the Senators letter is available here.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Press Release\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/3-gifs-tax-reform", "Three GIFs for Tax Reform", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "You've seen it in your inboxes and newsfeeds all week: photos, videos, articlesand plenty of hot takesabout the historic passage of tax reform. But now, for something a little different, here are the top 3 moments from the week as seen in GIFs.\n1. The House passes the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\n2. President Trump congratulates Congress for the passage of tremendous tax cut legislation.\n3. Speaker Ryan and Senator Hatch sign the landmark legislation before sending it to the White House.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/wisconsinites-are-getting-tax-cut-speaker-ryan-talks-tmj4-s-charles-benson", "Wisconsinites are getting a tax cut: Speaker Ryan talks to TMJ4\u2019s Charles Benson", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This week, House Speaker and Wisconsins First District Congressman Paul Ryan spoke to TMJ4s Charles Benson about how Wisconsinites will benefit from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Watch the interview here and check out excerpts below:\nPaul Ryan: I ran the numbers on Wisconsin, the average family of four in Wisconsin, earning the median income in Wisconsin, is going to get a little over a $2,000 tax cut, next year alone. That helps a lot of people who are living paycheck-to-paycheck. That helps a lot of people in Wisconsin who are struggling to make ends meet, who are nervous about their situation, their economic problems.\nPaul Ryan: Heres how you should do the math, I was in Beloit this weekend at a Volleyball tournament\nCharles Benson: Youre talking [about]this at a Volleyball tournament?\nPaul Ryan: Oh yeah, everywhere I go I get this. . . .Double the Child Tax Credit from where it is today, so if you have kids, your Child Tax Credit goes from $1,000 to $2,000, your tax rates go down across the board, everybodys tax rates go down, and thirdly the standard deduction doubles, so instead of having the first $12,000 not being taxes, your first $24,000 as a family is not being taxed. But what is just as exciting is the wage increases we think will come from having business tax relief, so that we can make businesses more completive, so they can hire more people, pay more wages, but more importantly compete in a global economy that weve been really not doing well with that. Weve had the worst tax code in the industrialized world. Now were going to have one of the best.\nPaul Ryan: Charles, youre a Milwaukee guy, the biggest company we have in Milwaukee that was publically traded was Johnson Controls, which used to be headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. . . .Their headquarters are inCork, Ireland, because Ireland has a 12.5 percent tax rate, not a 35 percent tax rate. When you start losing headquarters, when you start losing companies going overseas, we lose jobs.\nCharles Benson: Youre eliminating the individual mandate, and some people fear thats going to cost them more?\nPaul Ryan: Actually its quite the opposite. So instead of making people buy health insurance they dont want or cant afford, were letting people do what they want to do. Were giving people freedom to buy the health care plan of their choosing, instead of forcing people to buy a plan that they dont want or cant afford.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/biggest-tax-reform-generation-now-law", "The Biggest Tax Reform In A Generation Is Now Law", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on enactment of theTax Cuts and Jobs Act: The biggest tax reform in a generation is now the law of the land. As promised, the American people will begin the new year with a new tax code. At a time when many Americans are still living paycheck-to-paycheck, tax reform means more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. Already, workers are reaping the benefits of reform as companies take steps to reward their employees and expand their businesses. And soon, workers will begin to see bigger paychecks as new withholding tables take effect. Typical families of four can expect a tax cut of $2,059 next year as rates are lowered across the board. That is what this is all about: helping people earn more and keep more of what they earn. This is truly a moment of great hope and potential for our country. I would like to thank President Trump, Leader McConnell, Chairman Hatch, and Chairman Brady for their tireless work to make this day a reality. At long last, real tax relief is on the way. Merry Christmas.\n\n BREAKING NEWS  The biggest #TaxReform in a generation is now the law of the land. As promised, real tax relief is on the way for the American people. Merry Christmas! pic.twitter.com/lBGFLYU3rY Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 22, 2017", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/video/all-calm-capitol-hill", "All Is Calm on Capitol Hill", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "It's Christmas, and finally, after a year filled with common-sensewins for the American people, all is calm on Capitol Hill.\nFrom all of us in the Speaker's Office, we hope you and your loved ones have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/video/flashback-tax-cuts-christmas", "Flashback: Tax Cuts by Christmas", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\"December 23rd? That's a date I'll take.\" \nThat is what Speaker Ryan said back in Mayand repeatedly since thenwhen promising tohave tax reform passed and placed on the president's desk by Christmas. Today, with the signing of theTax Cuts and Jobs Act,that promise made is now is a promise kept.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://grothman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=512", "Grothman Applauds Air Forces Wisconsin Pick for F-35s", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Glenn Grothman", "G000576", "grothman.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) today released the following statement after the Air Force announced it will house the next generation of F-35 fighter jets at Madisons Truax Field:\r\nI commend the Air Force for selecting Truax Field as one of the future homes for the F-35A. This decision confirms our Wisconsin National Guard, the 115th Fighter Wing, possesses the capabilities and strategic location worthy of such an elite fleet.\r\nMembers of the Wisconsin congressional delegation signed a letter in support of Truax Field during the basing selection process, and I applaud the Air Force, Wisconsin National Guard and 115th leadership, Madison and Dane County officials and Gov. Walker for working tirelessly on this move that will benefit our entire state. Were proud that a number of these next generation fighters will call Wisconsin home!\r\n###\r\nU.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman is serving his second term representing Wisconsins 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/wisconsin-awarded-f-35-fighter-base-over-several-states", "Wisconsin Awarded F-35 Fighter Base Over Several States", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: Scott Anderson of the Madison Patch\r\nMADISON, WI The U.S. Air Force said Thursday that Wisconsin's Truax Field Air National Guard base in Madison will be one of two sites to station next-generation F-35 aircraft, beginning in 2023.\r\nIn a news release, Air Force officials said that deployment of the F-35 is \"critical to the family of systems\" needed to penetrate enemy air defense systems.\r\n\"Putting F-35s at these two Air National Guard bases continues our transition into the next generation of air superiority,\" said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein in a prepared statement on Thursday. \"It helps ensure we can always offer the Commander-in-Chief air power options and be ready to penetrate any enemy air defenses, hold any target at risk and go when and where the president tells us to go. We're the options folks. The F-35 is critical to the family of systems we need to accomplish this mission for the nation now and in the future.\"\r\nIn an undated letter submitted to General David L. Goldfein, Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, senators Ron Johnson and Tammy Baldwin, congressmen Paul Ryan, Mark Pocan, Reid Ribble, James Sensenbrenner, Ron Kind, Gwen Moore, Sean Duffy and Glenn Grothman stated that \"The capabilities and assets of the 115th Fighter Wing and Truax Air National Guard Base include in their unique ability to provide tremendous airspace, that it schedules and controls, over its network of integrated ranges and its unencumbered Military Operational Airspace.\"\r\nThe Air Force expects the F-35s to begin arriving at Truax Field in early 2023. The Air Force also evaluated Gowen Field Air Force Base in Idaho, Selfridge Air Force Base in Michigan and the Jacksonville Air Guard Station in Florida. The Air Force said those bases were reasonable alternatives, but not preferred.\r\n\"This is a big day for Wisconsin's military community and the whole region. The Air Force agrees that the great men and women of the Wisconsin Air National Guard are uniquely prepared to host the F-35,\" Speaker Paul Ryan said in a prepared statement. \"This decision boosts the Truax base, which is already such an integral part of the area and contributes a great deal to our national security. I want to congratulate all the people in the community who worked tirelessly to make this possible, but most importantly the men and women of the 115th Fighter Wing, who represent us with integrity and excellence every single day.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/baldwin-statement-on-continuing-resolution-vote", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Continuing Resolution Vote", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Continuing Resolution Vote \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin released the following statement on the continuing resolution vote in the Senate tonight.\r\nThis week, Congressional Republicans delivered a huge gift to the wealthiest few, big corporations and Wall Street. Those who have too much power and influence in Washington won again, and the people of Wisconsin are fed up with it and so am I. That is why I am voting against this kick-the-can-down-the-road legislation. Congress should not be leaving town without getting the job done to keep a promise on pensions that workers have earned. We should not put off protecting Dreamers who have only known America as their home. We should not shortchange our veterans; we should do right by them. And at a time when Congressional Republicans are giving the top 1% huge tax breaks, it is morally wrong that Congress is failing to fully fund childrens health care, community health centers and combating the opioid crisis.\r\n\r\n###\r\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-congratulates-115th-fighter-wing-on-announcement", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Congratulates Dedicated Men and Women of the 115th Fighter Wing on U.S. Air Force Announcement", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Congratulates Dedicated Men and Women of the 115th Fighter Wing on U.S. Air Force Announcement \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 Wisconsin Air National Guards Truax Field selected as a preferred location for an Air National Guard F-35 squadron\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin congratulated the dedicated men and women of the 115th Fighter Wing after the U.S. Air Force announced that Wisconsin Air National Guards Truax Field has been selected as a preferred location for an Air National Guard F-35 squadron.\r\nI congratulate the dedicated men and women of the 115th Fighter Wing. I have been proud to play a lead role within the Wisconsin Congressional delegation advocating for the 115th, and I am pleased that the Air Force has recognized the tremendous strategic, geographic and economic capabilities that Truax offers,said Senator Baldwin.The 115th Fighter Wing plays an essential role in protecting the safety and security of Wisconsin and our nation. I am excited about Truaxs selection for this new mission and the enduring benefit it will provide to our economy and the State of Wisconsin.\r\nIn addition to the contributions to our nations and Wisconsins security, basing the F-35 mission at Truax Field would maintain the more than 1,650 jobs to which the 115th currently contributes, as well as the continuity of services the unit provides to the city and state, while also benefiting regional retail, healthcare, real estate, food services and construction industries. Over the lifetime of the F-35 mission, there is an estimated economic impact of $4.8 billion.\r\nHaving represented and advocated on behalf of the base for more than 17 years in Congress, Senator Baldwin has played a leading role organizing the Wisconsin Congressional delegations support for the Truax effort. In recent years, Senator Baldwin has sent multiple letters to and has held numerous discussions with Air Force senior leaders, including the current and former Secretaries and Chiefs of Staff of the Air Force, in support of the effort to base the F-35 mission at Truax Field.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-introduces-bill-to-equip-students-with-international-skills", "U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Todd Young Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Equip Students with High-Demand International Skills", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Todd Young Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Equip Students with High-Demand International Skills \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize Title VI of the Higher Education Act. The Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act will ensure that American students have access to quality international and foreign language education programs that meet the needs of our nation.\r\nWisconsin is home to world class universities and our international education system lives up to our state motto, Forward. That is why Im joining Senator Young in supporting the reauthorization of the Title VI program to continue the growth of our international education system, said Senator Baldwin. This effort is working to satisfy the increasing demand for qualified workers throughout the world. At the same time, we must continue to strengthen international programs like Title VI within Wisconsins educational institutions to foster innovation that enhances our local economies and small businesses. In promoting both of these goals, I am looking forward to supporting this legislation in committee.\r\nIts important that our students are equipped with high-demand international skills and that our institutions of higher education can also successfully prepare students. That is why we must increase investment in international and foreign language education, said Senator Young. This legislation will allow Hoosier students to be economically competitive amidst workforce challenges in the 21st century.\r\nTitle VI provides resources for universities across the country, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to develop quality and innovative international programs of strategic interest related to the Middle East, East and Central Asia, Russia, Eastern Europe, Africa and other world areas. This bill advances national security, invigorates global competition and expands access to underserved students. Partnerships between universities and government strengthen and preserve our national and international foreign language education infrastructure.\r\nThis is a forward looking bill that will harness proven strategies and spur innovation in the comprehensive international education system that produces graduates to meet our nations growing demand for global competence in the workforce, said Guido Podesta, Vice Provost and Dean of the International Division at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.\r\nHoosiers throughout the state will reap the benefit of the programs supported in Senator Youngs bill, said Michael A. McRobbie, President of Indiana University. A wide array of Indiana organizations - from the Indiana National Guard, which relies on IUs Title VI programming to train Service members, to local K-12 school districts, which send their teachers to language and training workshops sponsored by IUs Title VI centers  will be greatly helped by the Senators legislation.\r\nClick here to view the full text of the bill.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9696597E-AEBD-4B65-A550-696DAA7129BE", "Johnson Applauds Wisconsin Being Awarded the F-35 Program", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Ron Johnson", "J000293", "www.ronjohnson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) today released the following statement after the United States Air Force chose Wisconsins 115th Fighter Wing at Truax Field in Madison to receive the F-35A Lightning II:\r\nThis is great news for the future of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, the employees of Truax Field, and all of southern Wisconsin, said Sen. Johnson. I applaud the Air Force for recognizing the strategic importance of our state, and I look forward to Wisconsin playing a major role as the Air Force modernizes and enhances its capabilities to keep America safe and secure.\r\nThe Air Force used an objective selection process to identify candidate bases and ultimately selected Truax as one of the two Air National Guard bases to host the F-35A.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-fox-news-cnbc-tax-reform-lets-people-keep-more-their-hard-earned-dollars", "Speaker Ryan on Fox News, CNBC: Tax Reform Lets People Keep More of their Hard-Earned Dollars", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Following the passage of historic tax reform, Speaker Ryan spoke to CNBC and Fox News about how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will bring real relief to middle-income Americans.Watch the interviews and check out the excerpts below.\nCNBCs Squawk Box\nSpeaker Ryan: If youre living paycheck-to-paycheck, which is more than half of the people in this country, making the median family income of four and you got a $2,000 tax cut next year, thats not nothing. . . . To families who are out there struggling, thats something. Doubling the child tax credit, doubling the standard deduction, lowering rates across the board, that means a lot, to a lot of people.\nJoe Kernen: Heres one thing I got from the Joint Committee on Taxation. If you take what we think of as the middle-class, people earning between $40,000 and $200,000, not the top 5 percent, between the top 5 percent and the bottom 50 percent, that 45 percent, they pay 37.6 percent of personal taxes, of the total, they get 52 percent of the tax cut. Whereas the top 5 percent pay 59 percent of the taxes but only get 43 percent of the tax cut. So thats 87 percent more that the people in the middle-class are getting so how is it being characterized as a tax cut for the rich . . . . Its picked up by the media, every headline I see in every newspaper and every cable channel I turn on, thats what I see. . . . Is it impossible to get the message out?\nSpeaker Ryan: Its impossible to get the message out in the slew of all of this because that is the mantra, it has been the mantra, it will be the mantra, and its always been the mantra. Look theres a different philosophy here. On the left, people look at life and the economy as a zero-sum game, that its not dynamic. That someones gain comes at another persons loss. That the economic pie of life is fixed and that its governments job and role to equitably distribute the pie. We have a different philosophy. We believe in equality of opportunity, not equality of outcome. This is the equality of outcome philosophy. So you have to understand the philosophy behind making those talking points and thats what it is.\nThe Story with Martha MacCallum\nMartha MacCallum: Why is there such a disconnect between what people think they are going to get and what the numbers are telling us they will get?\nSpeaker Ryan: Well when people are bombarded with that kind of rhetoric, no wonder they're a little confused. When they're bombarded from the rhetoric from the Left and from a lot of people in the media, that this is going to hurt them, this is going to raise their taxes, it's going to do other things, people are going to be confused. You know, this was the kind of debate I'm told they had in '86 when Reagan passed his tax reform. In the polling before they passed it, only 18 percent of Americans at the time thought they were going to get a tax cut. So this is the kind of hyperbolic rhetoric you have when we're doing monumental reform, which lets people keep more of their own hard-earned dollars, which gets our businesses in sync with the rest of the world so we're not punishing them and losing jobs. The Left hates this. They're not for it. And what the news you're seeing today, just in hours, you just mentioned in your lead in, AT&T $1,000 bonus for what, 200,000 employees? A billion dollar capital investment? There'syou know that tells me that's 7,000 jobs right there. Comcast, $1,000.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-signs-tax-bill-sends-president-s-desk", "Speaker Ryan Signs Tax Bill, Sends to President\u2019s Desk", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON Today, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and members of Congress held an enrollment ceremony for H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. With the speakers signature, the landmark legislation heads to President Trumps deskwhere it will soon become law. Following are Speaker Ryans remarks as delivered:\nSo many of us have been working on this issue for a long time. And as a former chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, I just have to tell you how so many men and women here have fought for this moment. So I also want to echo what Kevin Brady said. I want to thank the staff for all their hard work. I want to thank George Callas on our staff, who came from the Ways and Means Committee to the speakers office with me, and so many other people to make this possible. We come to these jobs to try and improve the lives of the people we represent. And this bill, more than so many other things weve ever tried to do, does that. And so were very thankful, and were very hopeful. Because when weve been working on this issue for so many years, we can see on the horizon this great potential for our people and for our economy. We know this is the greatest country on Earth, and we know that America has better days ahead. And we know that America has so much more potential to tap. This bill taps that potential. You know, I just look at the state of Wisconsin. The average income family of four in Wisconsin is going to get in excess of a $2,000 tax cut. Thats real relief for real people living paycheck-to-paycheck. \nWere heartened that hours after this bill passed, were seeing companies across the country giving bonuses to their employees. One company in Philadelphia, $50 billion in capital improvements and investment over the next five years because of this tax bill. \nWere encouraged at the fact that this is going to give the American economy the jolt of energy it needs to give people the opportunity they deserve. So were so excited about this chance and this opportunity. And were so thankful to the men and women of this country who sent us here to work on their behalf. And that we are able to actually deliver this generational defining reform and this moment. So at this time, Id simply want to ask the Senate pro tem, Senator Hatch, to join me in enrolling and signing this legislation.  \n\t\n Signed. Sealed. And about to be delivered to the president's desk. pic.twitter.com/3u2ST6ZSjT Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 21, 2017", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/air-force-awards-f-35s-truax-great-victory-wisconsin-s-military-community-and-region", "Air Force Awards F-35s to Truax, A Great Victory for Wisconsin\u2019s Military Community and the Region", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONWisconsins First District Congressman and Speaker of the House Paul Ryan today welcomed the Air Forcesannouncementthat the 115thFighter Wing at Truax Field Air National Guard Base (ANG) in Madison, Wisconsin has been chosen to host an F-35A Operational Wing mission beginning in early 2023:\nThis is a big day for Wisconsins military community and the whole region. The Air Force agrees that the great men and women of the Wisconsin Air National Guard are uniquely prepared to host the F-35. This decision boosts the Truax base, which is already such an integral part of the area, and contributes a great deal to our national security. I want to congratulate all the people in the community who worked tirelessly to make this possible, but most importantly the men and women of the 115th Fighter Wing, who represent us with integrity and excellence every single day.\nBackground  \n\tAir Force Secretary Heather Wilson called Speaker Ryan this morning to notify him of the Air Forces decision. Truax Field ANG was chosen alongside Dannelly Field in Alabama as one of two F-35A bases. Speaker Ryan and a bipartisan coalition of the Wisconsin congressional delegation worked to secure the F-35 for years. You can read the delegations most recent appeal to the Air Forcehere. To learn more, clickhereto read the official announcement from the Air Force.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/gold-medal-ceremony-congress-honor-senator-bob-dole", "Gold Medal Ceremony: Congress to Honor Senator Bob Dole", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONOn Wednesday, January 17, leaders of the U.S. House and Senate will present a Congressional Gold Medal to former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole in recognition of his service to the nation as a soldier, legislator, and statesman.\nRobert Joseph Bob Dole was born on July 22, 1923, in Russell, Kansas. In 1942, while away at college, he enlisted in the United States Army to serve during World War II, where he suffered devastating injuries while trying to help a fellow soldier. He was later awarded two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for his service during the war. Later, he went on to represent the state of Kansas in the United States Congress from 1961 until 1996eight years in the United States House of Representatives,followed by 27 years in the United States Senate. During his 35 years in Congress, Senator Dole was a strong advocate for the disabled, prioritizing policy over partisanship to achieve significant Social Security reforms and advancethe Americans with Disabilities Act. Since his time in Congress, Senator Dole has continued to selflessly serve the American publicespecially our nations veterans.\n\tHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) will take part in the bipartisan, bicameral ceremony.\nThe Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor the United States can bestow. In accordance with Public Law No:115-60, a single gold medal has been struck to honor Senator Dole.\nThe ceremony will take place at 3:00 p.m. ET in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol and will be live-streamed on speaker.gov/live. For more on the history of the Congressional Gold Medal, check out this behind-the-scenes video.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-government-funding-legislation", "Statement on Government Funding Legislation", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) released the following statement after the House voted on legislation to fund the government.\nToday, the House responsibly voted to continue the government operations and fulfill basic obligationsincluding funding the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and providing resources for hurricane and wildfire ravaged states. Its disappointing that House Democrats overwhelmingly voted against these measures. I hope that they will return in the new year willing to work with us to complete our work, most importantly to adequately provide for our men and women in uniform.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gallagher.house.gov/media/press-releases/gallagher-s-statement-passage-historic-tax-reform", "Gallaghers Statement on Passage of Historic Tax Reform", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Mike Gallagher", "G000579", "gallagher.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Rep. Mike Gallagher released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to advance tax reform: For the first time in over 31 years, Congress passed comprehensive legislation to reform our outdated, unfair, and overly complicated tax code that has stifled growth for manufacturers and punished working families in Northeast Wisconsin. At the center of this historic effort is the belief that familiesnot lobbyists and special interests in Washington D.C.  should make decisions on how they spend their money. By lowering rates across the board, Wisconsinites will keep more of their income, and Wisconsins small businesses will have a fair shot at growing their companies so they can compete in the global economy.  This bill is a huge step forward, but we still have additional work to do, particularly when it comes to getting folks back into the workforce. For as long as I represent Northeast Wisconsin, I will continue to fight for policies that empower individuals and families, help our manufacturers compete globally, and allow our economy to grow.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gwenmoore.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2587", "Strong Bipartisan Opposition to Trump Ex-Im Nominee", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Gwen Moore", "M001160", "gwenmoore.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  In response to the Senate Banking Committees decision to reject the nomination of Scott Garrett to lead the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) released the following statement:I applaud the decision of both Republicans and Democrats on the Senate Banking Committee in ending the misguided nomination of Scott Garrett, President Donald Trumps choice to lead the Ex-Im Bank. There is little doubt that Garret, who worked tirelessly to shut down the Bank during his tenure in Congress, would have worked from within to destroy this vital institution, forcing hard-working Americans to pay the price.  As a proven job creator that drives nationwide economic growth, I take comfort in knowing there is bipartisan consensus on the need to confirm a nominee who recognizes the role the Bank plays in strengthening our economy. Over the last 10 years, the Ex-Im Bank supported over 1.7 million American jobs. This year alone in Wisconsin, the Bank enabled the export of $181 million goods and services.  The Bank has been unquestionably successful in supporting American jobs and leveling the international playing field for American manufacturers. However, it remains to be seen if President Trump will answer the bipartisan calls for him to nominate someone who will bring the Bank back to its full potential. For the sake of American exports and the ability of US workers to compete in the global economy, I hope he does.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/pro-life-coalition-warns-obamacare-stability-deal-without-hyde-amendment-will-force-taxpayers-to-fund-abortion", "Pro-Life Coalition Warns: Obamacare 'Stability' Deal Without Hyde Amendment Will Force Taxpayers to Fund Abortion", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: Dr. Susan Berry of Breitbart\r\nA coalition of 67 national and state pro-life groups is warning Congress that a vote for the Alexander-Murray Obamacare stability bill is a vote for taxpayer-funded abortion on demand.\r\n\r\nIn a jointletterto members of Congress, the leaders of the coalition asserted their opposition to any spending bill that includes cost-sharing reduction payments that are not protected by the Hyde Amendment, a longstanding provision that prohibits taxpayer funds from being used for most abortions.\r\nThe pro-life groups state:\r\nWe are strongly opposed to Obamacare stabilization funding unless amended so such funds cannot be used for plans that include elective abortion. In addition, we will oppose any larger legislative package that includes stabilization funds for abortion-covering plans. Any Member voting for the Alexander-Murray proposal, or other Obamacare stabilization legislation not covered by the Hyde amendment, would not only be voting to sustain what many have called the largest expansion of abortion since Roe v. Wade, but would also be voting to directly appropriate taxpayer dollars for insurance that includes elective abortion.\r\nSens. Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Patty Murray (D-WA)proposedone stabilizationfundthat would appropriate monies for the Obamacare subsidies known as the cost-sharing reduction (CSR) program. CSRs provide additional funds to health insurance companies which, they claim, are required to keep health insurance costs low.\r\nSens. Susan Collins (R-ME) and Bill Nelson (D-FL) alsooffereda stabilization bill that would make payments to abortion-covering insurance plans to reduce health insurance costs.\r\nBoth Alexander-Murray and Collins-Nelson payments are in the Obamacare funding stream and should not underwrite plans that cover abortion, the pro-life groups write.\r\nFor decades, the Hyde amendment and other funding limitation amendments such as the Smith Federal Employee Health Benefits Program amendment prevented federal taxpayer funding for abortion or for insurance coverage that included abortion, they add. In stark contrast, enactment of Obamacare ushered in a new era of abortion funding unleashing federal subsidies for insurance coverage that includes abortion on demand.\r\nPolitico, in fact,notesthis week:\r\nThe Alexander-Murray bill doesnt have the prohibitions on federal funding of abortion commonly known as the Hyde amendment, which has angered a key anti-abortion group, the Susan B. Anthony List, and House Republicans.\r\nBut Democrats in the Senate, who will be needed to help pass the bill, are already frustrated that the GOP has twisted the intent of the bipartisan compromise in order to repeal the mandate. Its hard to see how theyll be eager to enact new Hyde language.\r\nThe Politico report states Senate Republicans are now rationalizing thatObamacare already prohibits use of federal funds for abortions, and that additional restrictions are not necessary.\r\nThat claim might sound nice now, but its not what Republicans have argued since Obamacare passed, nor is it consistent with the facts,writespolicy analyst Christopher Jacobs at the Federalist. To claim otherwise insults the intelligence of the pro-life community, and voters at large.\r\nJacobsobservesthat both Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Vice President Mike Pence have previously stated unequivocally that Obamacare forces taxpayers to fund abortions.\r\nSecondly, he notes Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT)statedin December 2009 that Obamacares abortion funding restrictions are significantly weaker than the Hyde Amendment.\r\nTo those Republican senators who say President Donald Trump can always boost enforcement of so-called Obamacare restrictions on abortion funding with executive orders, Jacobs responds with the words of Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), whosaidin March 2010:\r\nThis bill expands abortion funding to the greatest extent in history. I have heard that the President is contemplating an executive order to try to limit this. Members should not be fooled. Executive orders cannot override the clear intent of a statute  If an executive order moves the abortion funding in this bill away from where it is now, it will be struck down as unconstitutional because executive orders cannot constitutionally do that.\r\nSenate Republicans have alreadyattempted to claimthat the insurer stability bill will bring benefits to taxpayers, even though the non-partisan Congressional Budget Officebelievesthe bill will give awindfall directly to insurance companies, Jacobs writes. They should not worsen the spectacle of rationalizing bad policy by attempting to render seven years of arguments they made to the pro-life community meaninglessfor they only beclown themselves in the process.\r\nThe letter to members of Congress was signed by Susan B. Anthony List President Marjorie Dannenfelser, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins, National Right to Life President Carol Tobias, March for Life Education and Defense Fund President Jeanne Mancini, Concerned Women for America President and CEO Penny Young Nance, Students for Life of America President Kristan Hawkins, and more than 60 other pro-life leaders.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/tax-bill-a-boon-for-business-says-ibaw", "Tax bill a boon for business, says IBAW", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: Cara Spoto of the Freeman\r\nBROOKFIELD  The head of the Brookfield-based Independent Business Association of Wisconsin hailed the passage of the federal tax reform bill on Tuesday, saying it will put more money in the pockets of small businesses and their employees.\r\nThe Republican-drafted legislation, which slashes the corporate income tax rate  taking it from 35 to 21 percent  passed the House of Representatives largely along party lines by a 227-203 vote Tuesday afternoon. Senate Democrats, however, invoked a parliamentary procedure, arguing that three provisions in the bill violated Senate rules and must be removed. After that action, the Senate approved the bill early this morning on a 51-48 party-line vote.\r\nTherefore, the measure must return to the House today, where it is virtually certain to be approved again.\r\nAny time you can put more money back into corporate hands, thats going to trickle back down to not only workers, but expansion of equipment and research and development, said Steve Kohlmann, executive director of the Independent Business Association of Wisconsin, which represents businesses with 50 or more employees.\r\nKohlmann was joined in his praise for the legislation by U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, R-Menomonee Falls.\r\nTodays action by Congress is a huge step toward relief from the burden of an over-reaching government, wrote Sensenbrenner, who represents Waukesha, in a statement. Individuals, families, and businesses across Wisconsin and across the country are in a better place than they were yesterday.\r\nCriticism and praise\r\nThe massive $1.5 trillion tax package is expected to touch every American taxpayer and every corner of the U.S. economy, providing tax cuts for businesses and the wealthy, as well as for middle- and low-income families. The top tax rate for individuals would be lowered from 39.6 percent to 37 percent. Many analysts have argued that the legislation will also increase the national debt. Proponents, however, have suggested its positive impact on the economy will offset the increased deficit.\r\nHouse Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Janesville, said the results of the legislation, which doubles both the child credit and the standard deduction used by most families, would make it popular.\r\nWhile individual tax cuts would expire in 2026 in order to comply with Senate budget rules, tax cuts for corporations would be permanent.\r\nDemocrats have called the bill a giveaway to corporations and the wealthy, arguing that there is little likelihood that business owners will use their gains to hire more workers or raise wages.\r\nBut Kohlmann said Tuesday that businesses will use the money they pocket to reinvest in their companies, including human resources.\r\nIts not only research and development, but its being able to hire workers, pay benefits to those workers, and then offer higher wages to retain those workers, and attract more workers, he said. There are three things businesses are constantly fighting with: taxes, excessive regulations, and health care. So we have chipped away at a big one.\r\nWaiting on details\r\nTom Fotsch, a part owner and chief operating officer at Waukesha-based computer and software manufacturer EmbedTek, said he wasnt yet sure what the what law might mean for his company, but said he believed the overall economic impact of the legislation was positive.\r\nEmbedTek is a closely held corporation and it hasnt been clear what changes will be in store for those types of corporations, because the Senate and House bills have different proposals, Fotsch said.\r\nIts one of those things where the devil is in the details, he said. It makes it very difficult to try and plan, when we really dont know what was in the legislation. Thats a little frustrating, but, generally the things that they are saying are positive.\r\nOn a personal note, Fotsch said hes glad to see what he called major steps toward trying to simplify the tax code for individuals, noting it could pave the way for more people being able to do their own taxes.\r\nI think thats great, he said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/baldwin-presses-strongbridge-biopharma-for-answers-on-dramatic-price-increase", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Bipartisan Colleagues Press Strongbridge Biopharma for Answers on Dramatic Price Increase for Drug Treating Glaucoma, Rare Genetic Diseases", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Bipartisan Colleagues Press Strongbridge Biopharma for Answers on Dramatic Price Increase for Drug Treating Glaucoma, Rare Genetic Diseases \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 The Senators are urging Strongbridge to take immediate steps to alleviate the burdens their price increases have put on patients, and to ensure the companys behavior fully complies with laws, regulations and guidance\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Susan Collins (R-ME) in pressing Strongbridge Biopharma for answers on dramatic price increases for Keveyis, formerly known as Daranide. Keveyis is a drug that treats glaucoma and a type of rare genetic disease known as periodic paralysis, which causes attacks of muscle weakness or loss of muscle movement.\r\nAfter a series of companies bought and sold the right to the decades-old dichlorphenamide, the list price was hiked from $50 to $13,650 for 100 pills in 2015. Strongbridge recently acquired the drug and hiked the price even further to $15,001.\r\nIn a letter to Chief Executive Officer Matthew Pauls, Senators Baldwin, Klobuchar and Collins urge Strongbridge to take immediate steps to alleviate the burden their price increases have put on patients and to ensure the companys behavior fully complies with relevant laws, regulations and guidance.\r\nWe are writing to express our deep concern regarding the dramatic price increase for Keveyis, formerly known as Daranide, after Strongbridge Biopharma acquired the drug. As recently as the early 2000s, patients could obtain 100 pills of dichlorphenamide at a list price of $50, the Senators wrote. Yet, after a series of companies bought and sold the rights to this decades-old drug and obtained a new rare disease designation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the list price increased to $13,650 for 100 pills in 2015. Strongbridge recently acquired the drug and hiked the price even further to $15,001. According to a Strongbridge, patients might pay up to $219,000 a year for this medication.\r\nThe Senators continued, We are committed to combatting sudden astronomical price increases as well as any anticompetitive conduct and attempts to game the regulatory process at the expense of Americans in need of life-saving therapies. We urge you to take immediate steps to alleviate the burden your price increases have imposed on patients and to ensure your companys behavior fully complies with relevant laws, regulations and guidance. Please provide our offices with a written response including any analysis used by Strongbridge Biopharma relating to the pricing or market share of dichlorphenamide since 2015, any research and development and product improvement activities Strongbridge Biopharma has conducted since acquiring this drug, and any information reviewed or generated by the Strongbridge Biopharma Board of Directors relating to the drug over that same period.\r\nSenator Baldwin has made addressing skyrocketing prescription drug prices a top priority. Earlier this year, Senator Baldwin, along with Senators Klobuchar and John McCain (R-AZ), introduced the bipartisan Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act that would allow individuals to safely import prescription drugs from Canada, creating major savings for consumers and bringing greater competition into the pharmaceutical market.\r\nSenator Baldwin has also introduced bipartisan legislation, the FAIR Drug Pricing Act, with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) to address skyrocketing prescription drug prices by requiring transparency for pharmaceutical corporations that plan to increase drug prices. In addition, Senator Baldwin joined a group of Senate Democrats to launch a major push to bring down the costs of prescription drugs by introducing the Improving Access to Affordable Prescription Drugs Act.\r\n\r\nThe full text of the senators letter isbelow and is available here.\r\nDear Mr. Pauls,\r\nWe are writing to express our deep concern regarding the dramatic price increase for Keveyis, formerly known as Daranide, after Strongbridge Biopharma acquired the drug.\r\nThis drug (dichlorphenamide) was approved in the U.S. in 1958. Keveyis is used to treat glaucoma as well as a type of rare genetic disease, known as periodic paralysis, which causes attacks of muscle weakness or loss of muscle movement. Some people with this condition suffer daily attacks for hours on end and these attacks can occur without warning.\r\nAs recently as the early 2000s, patients could obtain 100 pills of dichlorphenamide at a list price of $50. Yet, after a series of companies bought and sold the rights to this decades-old drug and obtained a new rare disease designation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the list price increased to $13,650 for 100 pills in 2015. Strongbridge recently acquired the drug and hiked the price even further to $15,001. According to Strongbridge, patients might pay up to $219,000 a year for this medication.\r\nA 300-fold increase in the cost of a vital, decades-old treatment is unacceptable. Last year, the Senate Aging Committee released a report following a bipartisan investigation into sudden price spikes in decades old drugs, uncovering a business model that exploits market failures at the expense of patients. We are committed to combatting sudden astronomical price increases as well as any anticompetitive conduct and attempts to game the regulatory process at the expense of Americans in need of life-saving therapies.\r\nWe urge you to take immediate steps to alleviate the burden your price increases have imposed on patients and to ensure your companys behavior fully complies with relevant laws, regulations and guidance. Please provide our offices with a written response including any analysis used by Strongbridge Biopharma relating to the pricing or market share of dichlorphenamide since 2015, any research and development and product improvement activities Strongbridge Biopharma has conducted since acquiring this drug, and any information reviewed or generated by the Stonebridge Biopharma Board of Directors relating to the drug over that same period. Please also provide any documents examining the impact of the price increase on people with periodic paralysis and other conditions treated by this drug. We also ask that you provide a briefing to our staff at a mutually convenient time no later than three weeks from today.\r\nWe appreciate your prompt attention to this matter.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-pressures-health-secretary-nominee-to-put-science-over-ideology", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and HELP Committee Democrats Pressure Health Secretary Nominee Azar to Put Science over Ideology Following Reports Health Officials Are Prohibiting Words", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and HELP Committee Democrats Pressure Health Secretary Nominee Azar to Put Science over Ideology Following Reports Health Officials Are Prohibiting Words \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined her colleagues in sending a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary nominee Alex Azar on the troubling reports that the Trump Administration is once again putting ideology before science by restricting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other agencies within HHS from using certain words or phrases in preparing documents for the fiscal year 2019 budget.\r\nGiven Mr. Azars prior commitment to follow science and evidence at his confirmation hearing, the Senators, led by Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA), requested an explanation as to how Mr. Azar would approach this issue in his position at HHS.\r\nWe are incredibly concerned by this report; if true, it represents an unconscionable restriction on agency communications that prevents the department from accurately conveying the nature of its work, potentially posing a danger to critical health and scientific efforts, the Senators wrote. We also strongly oppose any communications, whether written or verbal, that suggest to Department and agency employees that they should avoid using particular words or phrases even if such guidance is not referred to as a ban. Given your pending nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services, we seek your reaction to this reported new Administration policy, as well as additional information about how you would plan to address these communications restrictions if confirmed.\r\nOn December 15, 2017, news outlets reported the Trump Administration had prohibited policy analysts from using a number of words and phrases in budget documents, including diversity, science-based, fetus, and transgender. CDCs work necessarily uses many, if not all, of the banned words. They are essential to the CDCs work,including addressing the health trends of LGBTQ communities, and researching the Zika virus and its impact on fetuses.\r\nIn addition to Senators Baldwin and Murray, the letter was signed by all of the Democratic members of the Senate HELP Committee, including Senators Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-PA), Al Franken (D-MN), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH).\r\nFull text of the letter is below and available here.\r\nDecember 19, 2017\r\nAlex M. Azar II  c/o The Department of Health and Human Services  200 Independence Avenue, S.W.  Washington, D.C. 20201\r\nDear Mr. Azar:\r\nOn December 15, 2017, the Washington Post reported that the Trump Administration has prohibited officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other parts of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from using a number of words or phrases in documents prepared for the fiscal year 2019 (FY19) budget. We are incredibly concerned by this report; if true, it represents an unconscionable restriction on agency communications that prevents the Department from accurately conveying the nature of its work, potentially posing a danger to critical health and scientific efforts. We also strongly oppose any communications, whether written or verbal, that suggest to Department and agency employees that they should avoid using particular words or phrases even if such guidance is not referred to as a ban. Given your pending nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services, we seek your reaction to this reported new Administration policy, as well as additional information about how you would plan to address these communications restrictions if confirmed.\r\nAccording to news reports, CDC officials received a list of seven prohibited words or phrases during a meeting last week with senior agency budget officials.[1] The forbidden words are vulnerable, entitlement, diversity, transgender, fetus, evidence-based and science-based. The prohibition applies to the budget and supporting materials being prepared for the FY19 budget proposal, which is expected to be released in early February. Meeting attendees were reportedly not provided a reason why these words are banned, but the words vulnerable, entitlement, and diversity have already been flagged for correction in draft documents. Subsequent reports indicate the prohibition is not exclusive to CDC.[2] There also continues to be confusion about whether the prohibition applies beyond budget documents.[3]\r\nCDCs work necessarily uses many, if not all, of the banned words. For example, the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention addresses the health trends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals.[4] Through this office, the CDC offers resources and information for transgender individuals, including information on HIV in transgender communities.[5] In fact, CDCs own data makes clear that transgender individuals are at increased risk for HIV, in part because of exactly the kind of stigma this dangerous prohibition stands to perpetuate.[6] The CDCs work on the Zika virus involves study of the passage of the virus from a pregnant woman to her fetus and the potential for birth defects in the fetus.[7] CDCs Office of Minority Health includes a division dedicated to diversity and inclusion management. It is hard to understand how CDC might prepare budget documents and more broadly conduct its work while omitting these key words and phrases.\r\nWithin HHS more broadly, these prohibited words and phrases are used frequently. For example, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) operates a national registry of evidence-based programs and practices to inform the public of mental health and substance use interventions.[8] In FY2018, SAMHSA requested $2.8 million for the registry.[9] Part of the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) mission is to help[] the public get the accurate, science-based information they need to use medical products and foods to maintain and improve their health.[10] The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) within HHS has published thousands of documents studying vulnerable populations.[11] There are many more examples of the use of these words and phrases across the Department.\r\nThe reports of explicit prohibition on the use of certain words or phrases unnecessarily inserts ideology into the work of the CDC, whose mission is to conduct[] critical science and provide[] health information that protects our nation against expensive and dangerous health threats, and throughout the Department.[12] The censorship has the potential to freeze scientific advancement at the agency and across the Department, and it sends a clear message that the Trump Administration is yet again prioritizing ideology over science.\r\nIf confirmed, you will be in a position to dictate departmental policy and budget. You have previously expressed a commitment to following science and evidence at the Department. During your nomination hearing before the HELP Committee last month, you stated, if I am Secretary, I am the Secretary for all Americans.  we have programs that this Congress has created and that HHS is there to implement, and I would faithfully implement those programs. We may differ in different elements of how those get implemented, but I firmly believe in following evidence and science where it go[es] -- where it will take us in running these programs.[13] When asked about womens access to free contraception, you said, I will follow the law there. If the law requires the coverage, and if the evidence and the science and the facts support that ... then well follow the law there.\r\nIt seems difficult to reconcile your stated beliefs about following science and evidence with reports of the Administrations ideological censorship that undermines much of CDCs work and the broader health mission of the Department. To help us understand how you would approach the policy if confirmed, please respond to the following questions by no later than January 2, 2017:\r\n \r\nAre you aware of whether the reports of the Trump Administration banning key words and phrases from HHS documents are accurate?\r\nIf the reports are accurate, do you agree with the Trump Administrations reported decision to prohibit the use of the seven words and phrases from HHS budget documents?\r\n  \r\nIf so, please describe for each word or phrase how the Department and patients and families stand to benefit from its prohibition.\r\n \r\n If confirmed, would you plan to continue the prohibition? If not, why not? \r\n If confirmed, would you propose to include any additional prohibited words or phrases, or would you propose to eliminate any of the current words or phrases? \r\n How do you believe censorship of certain words or phrases affects the work of the CDC or HHS at large? Do you believe the restriction has an impact on the science- and evidence-based work conducted by the agency? \r\n\r\nThank you in advance for your attention to this critical matter. If you have any questions, or would like to further discuss compliance with this request, please contact Andi Fristedt or Elizabeth Letter with Senator Murrays HELP Committee Staff at 202-224-6403.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-statement-on-republican-tax-legislation", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Republican Tax Legislation", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Statement on Republican Tax Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today issued the following statement after House and Senate Republicans passed partisan tax legislation:\r\nThis is largely a taxgiveawayto the wealthiest few, big corporations and Wall Street while millions of middle class families will face tax hikes. Powerful corporations get permanent tax breaks, the top 1% will see 83% of the benefits, and Republicans have put peoples health care on the chopping block to pay for it. Thats just not right and its not fair. This was a huge missed opportunity to do right by working families in Wisconsin. We should have worked together on bipartisan reform that was focused on the middle class but Republicans chose a go-it-alone approach to deliver a huge gift to those who have too much power and influence in Washington.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Press Release\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=1B2E97D0-323D-46EF-8EDB-CEF016F2A220", "Senator Johnson Statement on Nomination of Gordon Giampietro", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Ron Johnson", "J000293", "www.ronjohnson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S.Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) released the following statement on the nomination of Gordon P. Giampietro to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin:\r\nI sincerely appreciate all the hard work and effort of those serving on our federal nominating commission. I am pleased the bipartisan process resulted in the selection of an accomplished individual that will serve the nation and the people of Wisconsins eastern district well. I am happy to recommend Gordon Giampietro to the Senate for swift confirmation.\r\nMr. Giampietro was recommended to the White House by a bipartisan Wisconsin federal nominating commission.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A7549160-CBED-448F-B3F0-89317F4363D4", "Johnson Statement on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Ron Johnson", "J000293", "www.ronjohnson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) released the following statement after the Senate passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:\r\nThe number one component of a solution to many of Americas problems is robust economic growth. Passing pro-growth tax reform that allows American business to compete globally is a necessary step. No major piece of legislation is ever perfect, but thisbill is a significant improvement over our current tax system. I will remain committed to conducting effectiveoversight to measure results and provide continuous improvement of our tax code and economy.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F39F513E-C9D0-4948-A0E5-1D3D454EBA0D", "Johnson Applauds President Trump and Ambassador Haleys Defense of the Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as Israels Capital", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Ron Johnson", "J000293", "www.ronjohnson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) today issued the following statement commending President Trump and United Nations Ambassador Nicki Haley for vetoing a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning the United States recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital:\r\nIn recognizing Jerusalem as Israels capital, President Trump simply allowed a law that was passed with bipartisan support in 1995 to take effect, said Sen. Johnson. Delaying the implementation has obviously not spurred good faith negotiations. Perhaps this will positively help change the dynamic. Unfortunately, U.N. attempts to dictate American foreign policy are far too common, and I commend Ambassador Haley for defending President Trumps correct decision to move our embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/att-boeing-announce-new-investments-after-historic-tax-reform-vote", "AT&T, Boeing Announce New Investments After Historic Tax Reform Vote", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Its only been a few hours since the House voted to send the final version of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to President Trump, and we are already starting to see results.\nAT&T just announced that it will give 200,000 employees a $1,000 bonus once the bill is signed into law. In addition, the company plans to keep its promise to invest an additional $1 billion in the United States.\nThis tax reform will drive economic growth and create good-paying jobs, said AT&T chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson. In fact, we will increase our U.S. investment and pay a special bonus to our U.S. employees.\"\nBoeing is taking action as well, declaring that it will make a $300 million employee-related and charitable investment thanks to tax reform.\nFor Boeing, the reforms enable us to better compete on the world stage and give us a stronger foundation for the investment in innovation, facilities and skills that will support our long-term growth.\nIts clear American companies are ready for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to become law. Our reforms will enable them to compete on a level-playing field and bring capital back home to reinvest in their businesses and raise wages for hardworking employees.\nThis isnt fantasy worldThis is what our country will look like with a new tax code in 2018. And its just the beginning.\nTo learn more, visit speaker.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-talks-tax-cuts-morning-shows", "$2,059: Speaker Ryan Talks Tax Cuts on the Morning Shows", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This morning, Speaker Ryan made the rounds on four morning shows to discuss how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver real relief and bigger paychecks for middle-income families. Watch the interviews and check out the excerpts below.\nCBS This Morning:\nSpeaker Ryan: The average family of four in America earning the median income is going to get a $2,059 tax cut. And when more than half of Americans are telling us that they are living paycheck-to-paycheck, thats real relief. When you double the per Child Tax Credit, when you double the standard deduction, and you lower the rates across the board for every income group, thats real relief for families, for individuals. So thats really helpful and thats really something I think is needed in these difficult economic times where people literally are living paycheck-to-paycheck.\nFox & Friends:\nSpeaker Ryan: Number one, all tax rates go down. The top rate and every rate in between are lowered. So you get lower rates across the board. Number two, we double the standard deduction. That means you can see our postcard, I like to bring this thing up. Still nearly nine out of 10 people in America will be able to do their taxes on a form the size of a postcard because theyll take that standard deduction. . . .The average tax cut for your viewers, the median family of four in America is going to get a $2,059 tax cut. So thats real money for real people who are struggling.\nGood Morning America:\nSpeaker Ryan: People have been hit by the media and the Democrats on their TV screen that everyone is getting a big tax increase, and thats just not the case. The average median family of four in America is going to get a $2,059 tax cut. The average taxpayer in every income group is getting a tax cut, so I think when people actually see that instead of getting tax increases, theyre getting a tax cut, when they see the withholding tables changing in February and seeing more money in their paychecks, when theyre seeing the economic growth that will result from historic tax reform, I think minds are going to change.\nToday Show:\nSpeaker Ryan: People are living paycheck-to-paycheck in this country, more than half the people in this country. Another group of people in this country are about one check away from living paycheck-to-paycheck. We have not had a 3 percent growth economy since before the great recession in 2008. What that means is stagnant wages, flat living standards. You have to get faster economic growth, so that people can get ahead in America. Thats what were doing. The average tax cut for the median family of four in America is going to be $2,059. $2,000, if youre living paycheck-to-paycheck, is a serious tax cut. So what were trying to do here is give relief to hardworking families, give relief to Americans, were doubling the Child Tax Credit, doubling the standard deduction, lowering rates across the board, were making it so simple so that nine out of 10 taxpayers can do their taxes on a form like a postcard.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/congress-passes-tax-reform", "Congress Passes Tax Reform", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) released the following statement following House passage of the conference report to H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\nToday, Congress approved a once-in-a-generation tax reform bill. This is the end of a long journey to deliver major tax relief to the American people. Now, this historic legislation will be sent to the presidents desk so we can start 2018 with a new tax code.\n \nToday, Congress approved a once-in-a-generation tax reform bill. Now, this historic legislation will be sent to the presidents desk so Americans can start 2018 with a new tax code. pic.twitter.com/gvMK9UY9lp Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 20, 2017", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/speaker-ryan-white-house-today-we-are-keeping-our-promise", "Speaker Ryan at the White House: \u2018Today we are keeping our promise\u2019", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) spoke at the White House following congressional passage of the conference report to H.R. 1, theTax Cuts and Jobs Act. Below are his remarks.\nFirst of all, what this represents is a promise that each and every one of us made to the American people last year is a promise that is kept today.\nSomething this big, something this generational, something this profound could not have been done without exquisite presidential leadership. Mr. President, thank you for getting us over the finish line. Thank you for getting us where we are.\nI just quickly want to say a thanks because this has been such a team effort from everybody. I want to thank Gary Cohn and Steve Mnuchin from the presidents economic team for what they did to get us here.\nI want to thank my partner, Mitch McConnell, over in the Senate for getting us to where we are. And I want to thank these two chairman, Orrin Hatch and Kevin Brady, thank you so much for your leadership on this.\nIt is really simple. The message to the hardworking taxpayers of America is your tax relief is on its way. That is whats happening here. The message to the families in America who have been struggling paycheck-to-paycheck is your tax rates are going down and your paychecks are going up.\nThis is the kind of relief that Americans deserve. This is the kind of tax reform and tax cuts that get our economy growing to reach its potential. This gets us better wages, bigger paychecks, a simpler tax system. This gets the American economy competitive in the global economy.\nThis is one of the most important things we could do for all of the people we represent. This is generational and we are so excited that we are going to launch next year this fantastic tax reformso the American people can see how we can truly reach our economic growth and our economic potential.\nAnd if it werent for all the leadership of the men and women up here, this would not have been made possible.\nBut lastly, I just want to thank the American people. I want to thank the American people for putting their trust in us, for giving us this chance and this ability to make this moment possible. Thank you very much.\n Today, we kept our promise to the American people  Real tax relief is on the way. Tax rates are going down and paychecks are going up. pic.twitter.com/HrF2QtuwCv Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 21, 2017", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-senate-passage-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-conference-report", "Statement on Senate Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Conference Report", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement after the Senate passage of the conference report to H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:\nAfter years of work, we are going to enact the most sweeping, pro-growth overhaul of our tax code in a generation. Americans are going to see relief almost immediately in the form of bigger paychecks and lower taxes. I commend Leader McConnell and Chairman Hatch for working closely with the House to produce this historic legislation, and I look forward to joining them to send it to the president.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://duffy.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/important-to-remember-this-holiday-season", "Important to remember this holiday season", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Sean Duffy", "D000614", "duffy.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dear Friends,\n\t\t\t\tIf all the snow in northern Wisconsin weren't enough of a reminder, we are smack-dab in the middle of the holiday season. We love this time of year because we are reminded of our many gifts: fellowship with our loved ones, the opportunity to give back to our community, and the freedom to celebrate our faith.\n\t\t\t\tWhile this is certainly a special time of year, it's important to remember that while we celebrate (and when we are nestled all snug in our beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in our heads!), there are thousands and thousands of United States service members and local first responders like cops, firefighters, and EMTs who protect our safety and defend our freedoms.\n\t\t\t\tPlease take a moment this holiday season to thank one of these heroes for their service.\n\t\t\t\tOne incredible service member that I'd like to bring to your attention today is Amery's own, NavyAviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Class Petty Officer Kyle Fowler. He was recently awarded Sailor of the Year of theUSS John C. Stennis.\n\t\t\t\tThis is no small feat. Consider the context.Fowler won Sailor of the Year through a rigorous screening process on an incredibly large vessel.\n\t\t\t\tThe Stennis, and its 3,000 person crew, is a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier that \"conducts sustained air operations, maritime interdiction, counter-piracy operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.\"\n\t\t\t\tAnd TheAmery Free Press noted that, Fowler was chosen through a demanding screening process that looked at each Sailors involvement in the command during the last fiscal year as well as an oral board that tested Sailors knowledge on rules and regulations.\n\t\t\t\tWell done, 2nd Class PO Fowler! Wisconsin is proud of your accomplishments, and we thank you for your service.\n\t\t\t\tPlease Click HERE or the image below to\"like\" and SHARE to show your support for 2nd Class PO Fowler and all of our troops defending us across the globe.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tAnnouncement: Barron, WI Veterans BreakfastAttention Wisconsin Vets: our office is here to make sure that you are able to access all of the government resources that you have been promised and that you deserve.That's why our Hudson office's outreach specialist, Sean Lybert, is hosting yet another breakfast meet-and-greet at Cafe Next Door in New Richmond on Monday, December 18.Click HERE for a map.Stop on by and say hello!Click HERE or the image below for details of the breakfast- and remember to \"like\" and SHARE to spread the word to other vets in our neck of the woods.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLet's Connect on Snapchat!It is a priority of mine to stay in touch with you as much as I can. Whether it's an in-person town hall, tele-town hall, parade, dairy breakfast, or across social media- I will always be accessible to you. To find me on Snapchat, use the snapcode below.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gwenmoore.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2585", "GOP Tax Scam: Another Gift to Corporations", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Gwen Moore", "M001160", "gwenmoore.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  In response to today's vote on, H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) released the following statement: \"As members of Congress, we have a duty to always put the needs of our constituents before our own. This reckless Republican tax bill not only represents a deep misunderstanding of that responsibility, but also exposes the extent of their indifference to the struggles of poor and working class families. \"The GOP tax scam betrays every tenet of responsible governing and meaningful reform. It further complicates the tax code and creates even more loopholes for their corporate donors. When fully implemented, their plan will raise taxes on every single income group making less than $75,000 per year. Of the advertised tax benefits, 83% will go to the top 1% of taxpayers.  \"Its no secret that CEOs have already stated their intention of passing these tax cuts to their shareholders rather than creating jobs or raising wages. Our constituents are rightfully sick and tired of these empty promises, trickle-down myths, and attempts to chip away at the bedrock safety net programs upon which they depend. Thats why Ill continue to fight for policies that truly grow our economy and support the needs of regular Americans.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pocan-slams-ryan-and-republicans-for-slashing-corporate-taxes-at-the", "Pocan Slams Ryan and Republicans for Slashing Corporate Taxes at the Expense of the Middle Class", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Mark Pocan", "P000607", "pocan.house.gov", "pocan", "https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC (December 19, 2017) \u2013 U.S. Representative Mark Pocan (WI-02) today released the following statement regarding the final version of the Republican tax bill, which was passed today in the House of Representatives.\n\n\"Speaker Ryan and House Republicans just passed one of the biggest legislative scams in American history. Despite all of the rhetoric, lofty promises, and downright lies, the GOP tax bill is not written for the middle class, it's written for corporations and the wealthy. Today, Speaker Ryan and Republicans confirmed loud and clear that their priority is to help corporate and special interests at the expense of working families in Wisconsin and across the United States.\n\n\"Make no mistake, the Republican tax plan will negatively impact millions of American families, but what Speaker Ryan will do next is even worse. The handouts to corporations and the wealthy from this bill are so drastic that they are projected to balloon the deficit by more than $1.4 trillion, and Speaker Ryan is already planning to use this as an excuse to make massive cuts to programs like Medicare and Social Security.\n\n\"And while Speaker Ryan has been fighting to give corporations tax cuts at the expense of the middle class, he's neglected to reauthorize critical services like the Children's Health Insurance Program and the Federal Perkins Loans Program. When Congress returns in January, I will do all that I can to fight for working families and stop Speaker Ryan's radical agenda from doing more harm.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T22:19:19Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/senate-republicans-ready-an-abortion-flip-flop-in-obamacare-stability-bill", "Senate Republicans Ready An Abortion Flip-Flop In Obamacare Stability Bill", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: Christopher Jacobs of the Federalist\r\nAs Yogi Berra would say, Its dj vu all over again. Once again, Senate Republicans are preparing to flip-flop on taxpayer funding of plans that cover abortion. In June, Idiscussedhow unnamed Senate Republican sourcesclaimedthat their repeal-and-replace legislation would preserve Obamacares restrictions on abortion funding, even though Republicans have spent the past seven years arguing that the law provides taxpayer funding of plans that cover abortion.\r\nThose same unnamed sources are now trying to claim that the Obamacare stability bill does not need additional restrictions on abortion funding. AsPoliticoreports:\r\n[Senate Republicans are] stressing that Obamacare already has prohibitions on using federal funds for abortions that are not because of rape or incest or to save the mothers life. Anti-abortion groups didnt trust the Obama Administration to enforce those prohibitions. That prohibition could carry more weight now. We have a pro-life Administration that has agreed to more stringently enforce the life protections, a Senate Republican source said.\r\nThat claim might sound nice now, but its not what Republicans have argued since Obamacare passed, nor is it consistent with the facts. To claim otherwise insults the intelligence of the pro-life community, and voters at large.\r\n Lets Go Down Memory Lane \r\nIn June, Icitedseveral floor speeches during the Obamacare debate where congressional leaders argued that Obamacare includes taxpayer funding of abortions. For instance, heres Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), as the House prepared to vote on Obamacare: Democrats over in the House want to approve the Senate bill without actually voting on it. These Democrats want to approve a bill that rewrites one-sixth of the economy,forces taxpayers to pay for abortions, raises taxes in the middle of a recession, and slashes Medicare for seniors, without leaving their fingerprints on it (emphasis mine).\r\nAstute observers might notice the wording of McConnells remarks. The Senate majority leader did not say that Obamacaremightforce taxpayers to fund abortion coverage, depending upon how the administration implements the law. He did not say that We need to elect a pro-life administration to prevent Obamacare from providing taxpayer funding of abortion coverage. He flatly stated that Obamacare forces taxpayers to pay for abortionsperiod, end of story.\r\nThe current vice president, Mike Pence, said the same thing. While serving in the House, he delivered a floor speech that unequivocally equated Obamacare with taxpayer funding of abortion coverage:\r\nMr. Speaker, the bill before us tonight doesnt fix anything. It doesnt fix the fact that this is a government takeover of health care thats going to mandate that every American buy health insurance whether they want it or need it or not. It doesnt fix the fact that it includes about $600 billion in job-killing tax increases in the worst economy in 30 years.It doesnt fix the fact this bill provides public funding for elective abortion for the first time in American history(emphasis added).\r\n Law Trumps Executive Action \r\nMcConnell, Pence, and many others had good reason for their statements. As Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT)notedin December 2009, Obamacares abortion funding restrictions are significantly weaker than the Hyde Amendmenta provision designed to prevent taxpayer funding of abortion since 1976making them completely unacceptable in Hatchs view, and in the view of most pro-lifers.\r\nAs to Republican staffers claims that the Trump administration can fix the flawed statutory language through executive orders or more robust enforcement, heres what pro-life Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI)had to say about thatin March 2010:\r\nThis bill expands abortion funding to the greatest extent in history. I have heard that the President is contemplating an executive order to try to limit this. Members should not be fooled. Executive orders cannot override the clear intent of a statute.If an executive order moves the abortion funding in this bill away from where it is now, it will be struck down as unconstitutional because executive orders cannot constitutionally do that.\r\n\r\nOther House members made the same argument in March 2010, includingDan Lungren(R-CA) andJoe Pitts(R-PA). Their argument applies just as equally to Republican presidents and administrations as it does to Democratic ones.\r\nMoreover, conservatives who believe in limited government should not ask President Trump to exceed his executive authority, and a blanket funding on Obamacares abortion coverage would do just that. As Iwrote in January, a Republican Administration should not be tempted to use unilateral actions to achieve conservative ends. Such behavior represents a contradiction in terms. Not only can the Trump administration not stop funding of abortion coverage unilaterally, it should not attempt to try, if doing so would exceed its legal authority.\r\n Dont Insult Voters Intelligence \r\nJust as the Trump administration should not try to exceed its authority in shutting down federal funding of abortion coverage, Senate Republicans should not attempt to insult voters by pretending that those efforts will succeed legally, or that the completely unacceptable abortion protections Hatch described in 2009 are now sufficient.\r\nAs Inoted in October, Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN) failed even to understand the need for pro-life protections when crafting his stability bill earlier this fall. Leadership claiming pro-life protections are unnecessary when Alexander never bothered to consider them literally adds insult to injury.\r\nSenate Republicans have alreadyattempted to claimthat the insurer stability bill will bring benefits to taxpayers, even though the non-partisan Congressional Budget Officebelievesthe bill will give awindfall directly to insurance companies. They should not worsen the spectacle of rationalizing bad policy by attempting to render seven years of arguments they made to the pro-life community meaninglessfor they only beclown themselves in the process.\r\nMr. Jacobs is founder and CEO of Juniper Research Group, a policy consulting firm based in Washington. He is on Twitter:@chrisjacobsHC.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/sensenbrenner-votes-for-historic-tax-cuts", "Sensenbrenner Votes for Historic Tax Cuts", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (WI-05) offered the following statement after voting to advance the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act:\r\nThis historic tax reform package is a great win for the American people. For the first time in a generation, there will be real relief for struggling families. Under Speaker Ryans leadership and his Better Way Agenda, we are focused on making our economy stronger and expanding opportunities for all Americans.Todays action by Congress is a huge step toward relief from the burden of an over-reaching government.In fact, the average family of four in my district will see a $2,700 tax cut. Individuals, families, and businesses across Wisconsin and across the country are in a better place than they were yesterday.\r\nHe also offered, We are at a turning point and I am pleased we have chosen to move forward in the name of the American people. This is about making things better for all Americans and I am proud to be part of it.\r\nBackground:\r\nThe accompanying conference report to the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act reduces the tax rates on individuals and businesses, doubles the standard deduction, and preserves the mortgage interest deduction. It also maintains state and local tax deductions on property, income or sales taxes up to $10,000. Additionally, it expands both the Child Tax Credit and deductions for charitable donations.\r\nCLICK HERE to view more policy highlights of the conference report.\r\nCLICK HERE to view the full text of the conference report.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/wsaw-senator-tammy-baldwins-bipartisan-legislation-to-boost-forest-health-and-timber-economy", "WSAW: Senator Tammy Baldwin's Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Forest Health and Timber Economy", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwins-legislation-supporting-family-caregivers-passes-house", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin\u2019s Bipartisan Legislation to Support Family Caregivers Passes the House", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwins Bipartisan Legislation to Support Family Caregivers Passes the House \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 legislation establishing a coordinated strategy to support family caregivers is endorsed by more than 60 aging and disability organizations\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Susan Collins (R-ME) today applauded House passage of the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act. This bipartisan legislation, introduced by Senators Baldwin and Collins in May 2017, would establish a coordinated strategy to support family caregivers.\r\nThe RAISE Family Caregivers Act would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and sustain a strategy to recognize and support the more than 40 million family caregivers in the United States. This bipartisan legislation has been endorsed by more than 60 aging and disability organizations, including the AARP, the Alzheimers Association, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Arc.\r\nEvery day, family caregivers do right by their loved ones and we need to do right by them by formally recognizing and supporting family caregivers, said Senator Baldwin. This bipartisan effort is especially personal to me as I was raised by my maternal grandparents and later served as my grandmothers primary caretaker as she grew older. I know the challenges that family caregivers face. Ive listened to family caregivers across Wisconsin and worked to help make a difference in their lives. Our legislation will provide much-needed support for family caregivers, ensuring that our older adults and loved ones with disabilities receive the highest quality care in their own homes. I look forward to seeing our bipartisan legislation signed into law.\r\nFamily caregivers play an essential role in our communities by dedicating time and attention and making countless personal and financial sacrifices to care for their loved ones, said Senator Collins. I am delighted that the House has now passed our bipartisan legislation, which will develop a coordinated strategic plan to leverage our resources, promote best practices, and expand services and training available to caregivers.I look forward to our bill becoming law.\r\nThe RAISE Family Caregivers Act was supported by a broad bipartisan coalition of cosponsors including Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chris Coons (D-DE), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Al Franken (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Tester (D-MT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Senators Baldwin and Collins first introduced the RAISE Family Caregivers Act in July 2015, and the legislation first passed the Senate unanimously in December 2015.\r\nLearn more about the RAISE Act here.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/good-day-america", "\u2018This is a good day for America.\u2019", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, following the Houses historic vote to reform the tax code for the first time since 1986, Speaker Ryan and House leaders held a press conference in the U.S. Capitol. Below are Speaker Ryans remarks:\nI want to start off by thanking the American people, our constituents, for sending us here to do this work for them. This is one of the most important pieces of legislation that Congress has passed in decades to help the American worker, to help grow the American economy. This is profound change, and this is change that is going to put our country on the right path.\nFor all those millions men and women in America who are living paycheck-to-paycheck, who are struggling to get aheadhelp is on the way. For all those businesses that are tied with one hand behind their back in this global economy, having a hard time competinghelp is on the way.\nI want to thank Chairman Kevin Brady. I want to thank all the men and women who made this possible. This has been a long work in progress. And what this achievement marks is a promise that this majority made, and a promise this majority is keeping. We said in 2016 that it would take real tax reform for families and businesses to get the American economy growing, and we were serious. The American people placed their trust in us to do this work for them. And today were making good on that promise. Were fulfilling that promise. And this promise being kept today is one of the most important things we could do to get the U.S. economy growing faster, to help get people bigger paychecks, to have a fairer tax system, and to simplify the system so we can have more peace of mind.\nSo Kevin said it the right way: On January 1, Americans are going to wake up with a new tax code. In February, theyre going to see withholdings go down so they see bigger paychecks. And April 15 will be the last day they have to comply with the old, bad system.\nThis is a good day for America. This is a good day for workers. This is a great day for growth. And were very excited about this moment.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/promise-kept-speaker-ryan-talks-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-during-leadership-presser", "A Promise Kept: Speaker Ryan Talks \u2018Tax Cuts and Jobs Act\u2019 during Leadership Presser", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Summary: Today at a leadership press conference, Speaker Ryan discussed the historic nature of todays vote on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\nOpening Statement:\nFirst of all, I want to join Cathy in just saying how saddened we are by the terrible loss of life in DuPont, Washington. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and the people who are injured. And our thanks go out to the first responders who are tending to this terrible accident in Washington. Cathy also talked about how tax reforms going to help people with disabilities. That kind of gets to the heart of what this is all about. This is about expanding opportunity to people who are striving to make the most of their lives.\nThe reason were here doing this is because we want people to reach their potential. And we know in this country were not reaching our potential. And we know one of the greatest things we can do to do that is pass this tax reform bill. With this tax reform, families at every income level get a tax cut, but especially middle-income families. The typical family of four making the typical income of $73,000 will get a tax cut of $2,059. Let me repeat that: The typical family of four making the median family income gets a $2,059 tax cut next year. This is real relief. This is real relief and people are going to see this in their paychecks before too long. \nLook, youve all heard us say it, but this is very true. More than half the people in this country are living paycheck to paycheck. Almost another half are people who are telling us that theyre about one paycheck away from living paycheck-to-paycheck. Theres real economic anxiety in America.\nBut theres so much potential for our people, for our country, for our economy. Small businesses, Main Street businessesthats where most of the jobs come fromthey get real relief in addition to the families. Workers are going to get a more level playing field. Thats going to boost wages. Thats going to bring more jobs back home. This is going to make such a positive difference in the lives of everyday working Americans from all walks of life. Whether this is your first term or your tenth term, this is why we are hereand this is why Im excited about this moment. We, in 2016, laid out and articulated a vision for what we think is necessary to get this country back on track. We spent all of our time together, in our majority, Heres what its going to take to get America back on its feet. Heres what its going to take to help people who are struggling. Heres what its going to take to get this economy out of the malaise its been in for a decade to get true growth, to hit our potential. And were doing it today.\nThis is the greatest example of a promise being made and a promise being kept. Its been a long, long time. Its an honor to be speaker of the House to see this.\nThe last time this got done, the job I had? I was working the quarter pounder grill at McDonalds at the intersection of Highway 14 and I-90 in Janesville, Wisconsin. Its a long time in coming.\nAnd thats why were so excited to see this happen. Because we know this is going to help people. We know this is going to grow our economy. And we know its going to, most of all, help the people who are struggling in this country. Thats why were very, very excited about this historic day.\nWe could not be more optimistic about this moment, and what it means for the future of our great country.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/speaker-ryans-floor-remarks-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act", "Speaker Ryan's Floor Remarks on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONToday, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) delivered remarks ahead of a House vote on the conference report to H.R. 1, theTax Cuts and Jobs Act. Following are the speakers remarks as prepared for delivery:\nI want to thank all the members who have contributed to this legislation, especially the members of the Ways and Means Committee. I want to personally thank one of my predecessors as chairman, Dave Camp. We would not be here today without his work. And I want to commend and express my profound admiration for the architect of this measure, Chairman Kevin Brady. His endless patience and persistence has seen this through. My colleagues, this is a day I have looked forward to for a very long time. We are about to achieve some big thingsthings that the cynics have scoffed at for years, decades even. Ideas we have worked on for so long . . . to help hardworking Americans who have been left behind for too long. Today, we give the people of this country their money back. The bottom line here is that a typical family making the median family income will get a $2,059 tax cut next year. This is real relief for families out there living paycheck-to-paycheck, struggling to make ends meet.\nThey hear about the economy getting better, but now we need to make sure they see their own personal economy getting better. Things are tough right now for many families across the country. Today is about how much better things can be: More jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. Faster growth and real upward mobility. A strong economy that makes all of us stronger. Those are the effectsthe benefitsof reform. Here is the heart of it. Here is why it is so vital. Here is what it speaks to in what I truly believe is a generational defining moment for this country. Our tax code is so broken that it undermines the very things that make our nation so exceptional. It punishes hard work and discourages our entrepreneurial spirit. It dims freedom and free enterprise, and limits the potential of our people.\nWhen Americans see good jobs going away, companies they grew up with in their communities going away, they wonder if we have lost something bigger. The mission that drives us today is to restore the American Idea. It is the belief that the condition of your birth does not determine the outcome of your life. It is that sense of possibility. We want people to be free to strive and make the most of their lives. We want a country with the resilience to endure and tackle its challenges.\nEconomic growth and job creation will not solve all of our problems, but they will make our problems easier to solve. This is the direction we are choosing today. We know where the status quo leads.\nFor years, the powers-that-be have blocked and stonewalled reform under the umbrella of an arrogant, condescending, and paternalistic ideology. An ideology that seeks to limit mobility, to limit aspirations, to accept less in our lives. It is a view of the world that sees life and the economy as a zero-sum game. Look where that got us: the worst recovery since World War II, flat wages, an economy just limping along. Stagnation is a breeding ground for a class-based society where elites seek to predetermine the outcome our lives. They will tell you: just hand over more freedom to unelected bureaucrats, and it will be okay. Hand over more of your hard-earned money to the IRS, and it will be okay. Theres your scam right there. We know, given the opportunity, there are no limits to what our people can do. Yet for years now, the tax code has been skewed to the well-connected, full of special carveouts and loopholes.\nMeanwhile, the hardworking family has to jump through all the hoops the IRS can muster. Reform means we bring down rates at every level, and clear out loopholes. People keep more of what they earn in the first place. No special favors, just basic fairness.\nReform means simplification toonearly nine out of 10 Americans will be able to do their taxes on a form the size of a postcard. This is just a revelation. And given the opportunity, there are no limits to what our workers and entrepreneurs can do.\nYet while the world has changed, our tax code has not. Instead of leading, we have fallen behind, to the point we are now the worst in the industrialized world at how we tax our businesses. It is basically open season for competitors to come in and take our jobs overseas.\nReform means we go from the back of the pack toward the front. Instead of the slow growth we have been slogging through for years, we go back to real, sustained growth. We build an opportunity economy where there is more demand for high-wage jobs. This is without question the single most important thing we can do to once again make America the best place to do business. There is more here. With this bill, finally, we are restoring the freedom to make your health care choices. By repealing the individual mandate at the heart of Obamacare, we are giving back the freedom and flexibility to buy the health care thats right for your family.\nAnd, finally, we are doing something historic to develop our own energy resources. After decades of debate in this chamber, we are opening up a small, non-wilderness area of the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge for responsible development. It is the most ambitious step we have taken in years to secure our energy future. So this is one of those times to just take a minute and step back from the noise. We talk a lot in these jobs about turning points. There is no doubt that we are at one now, one that will determine the kind of country we have through this century.\nBut too often, we have seen before how doubt creeps in, short-sighted interests prevail, and history fails to turn. There is, after all, a reason this has not been done in more than 31 years.\nIf this is a generational defining moment, let it be defined by optimism, not fear.\nBy the rising aspirations of our people, and not the doom and gloom of managed decline. This is our chance. This is our moment. Let us turn at this turning point. To reclaim the principles that have guided us for generations.\nTo recapture our destiny for generations to come.\nA nation more united, more confident, and more free.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/video/enough-talk", "A Moment Decades in the Making", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This has been a moment decades in the making. America's tax code had its last major update in 1986, well before the smartphone that you may be reading this on was ever even invented.\nFor every middle-income family that knows what it is like to try to make ends meet, and forevery hardworking taxpayer who has ever spent hours trying to navigate complicated IRS forms, thisdayand this vote in favor of theTax Cuts and Jobs Actis for you.\nThe time is now. Today is the day. We're going to get it done.\n--\nTune into speaker.gov/livefor updates throughout the day.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gallagher.house.gov/media/in-the-news/gallagher-hopes-get-more-congress-save-bay", "Gallagher hopes to get more in Congress to Save the Bay", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Mike Gallagher", "G000579", "gallagher.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Mike Gallagher held a year-end meeting on the Save the Bay effort Friday at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay. It's an initiative we've been following for years, which Rep. Gallagher (R-Green Bay) is carrying on from his predecessor in the 8th Congressional District, Reid Ribble. The project aims to get rid of phosphorous, nitrogen and polluted sediment from the waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. \"It basically brings together all the stakeholders, whether it's our farmers in Northeast Wisconsin, whether it is those concerned about the environment, clean water, clean air. It discusses, best practices, right? Making sure we can support a robust agriculture industry without having runoff into the bay, into our rivers,\" Gallagher said. \"So now the next stage in our focus next year is going to be, how do we pool our resources and really go in offense and start spreading these practices and really go beyond Northeast Wisconsin and get some of my colleagues involved in the discussion as well.\" The next meeting on the Save the Bay initiative is with farmers in Kimberly on January 26.Click here for Save the Bay eventsand more information about its mission.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/states-sue-massachusetts-over-ban-on-out-of-state-meat", "States Sue Massachusetts Over Ban on Out-of-State Meat", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: National Pork Producers Council\r\nLed by the state of Indiana, the attorneys general for 13 states this week filed a lawsuit against Massachusetts over its ban on the sale of out-of-state meat and eggs from animals raised in certain housing. Massachusetts voters in November 2016 approved a ballot initiative that banned certain housing for pigs, egg-laying hens and veal calves.\r\nThe AGs are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to rule that the ban on the sale of meat and eggs from animals raised in housing systems prohibited by the state, which is set to take effect in 2022, violates the U.S. Constitution and the Commerce Clauses original goal of preventing states from enacting barriers to interstate commerce and regulating commercial activities that take place beyond their borders.\r\nThe lawsuit, filed directly with the high court based on its original jurisdiction over disputes between states, follows a similar suit. That suit also was filed by 13 states  led by the attorney general of Missouri  challenging a similar law restricting access to retail markets in California.\r\nNPPC fought both the Massachusetts and California initiatives and now is supporting the No Regulation Without Representation Act of 2017 (H.R. 2887), legislation introduced by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, R-Wis., that would prohibit states from imposing regulatory burdens on businesses, including pork operations, not physically present in the state.\r\nEarlier this year, NPPC CEO Neil Dierks testified on the bill before a House Judiciary subcommittee, saying: Several states  most with little pork production  have banned gestation stalls, either through ballot initiatives or legislation. That was their prerogative, however ill-advised or uninformed their motives were. What NPPC and pork producers object to is one state adopting a law or regulation that dictates the practices of the other 49 states.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/waow-senator-tammy-baldwin-against-gop-tax-plan-to-give-tax-breaks-to-the-wealthy", "WAOW: Senator Tammy Baldwin Against GOP Tax Plan to Give Tax Breaks to the Wealthy", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/waow-senator-tammy-baldwin-against-gop-tax-plan-to-give-tax-breaks-to-the-wealthy-2017-12-18", "WAOW: Senator Tammy Baldwin Against GOP Tax Plan to Give Tax Breaks to the Wealthy", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/2059-tax-cut-average-american-families", "A $2,059 Tax Cut for Typical American Families", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tomorrow is the day. The House will vote on the most sweeping, pro-growth tax reform since Reagan. So what does it mean for you and your family?\nMost importantly, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will give typical families of four earning $73,000 per year a $2,059 tax cut next year.\nThat is a really big deal. Thats $2,059 to help cover that dream vacation, invest in your childrens college education, or save up for that new car.\nThis tax cut is the result of three major reforms:\n Increasing the standard deduction so more of what you earn$12,700 for individuals and $24,000 for joint filersis completely tax free.\n Doubling the Child Tax Credit to $2,000 per child so parents have some extra cash to raise their families.\n Lowering rates across the board so Americans at every single income level get a well-deserved and long-overdue tax cut.\nThe long story short is that relief for middle-income Americans and families living paycheck-to-paycheck is finally on the way. When we get this done, people across the country can celebrate the holidays knowing they will wake up with a simpler and fairer tax code on New Years Day.\nTo learn more, visit speaker.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/eve-historic-tax-reform-vote-conservative-coalition-urges-passage-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act", "On Eve of Historic Tax Reform Vote, Conservative Coalition Urges Passage of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On the eve of tomorrows historic tax reform vote, a broad coalition of conservative organizations is urging Congress to pass theTax Cuts and Jobs Act. In aletterto Members of Congress, nearly three dozen leading conservative groups argue that tax reform will deliver more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks to the American people:\nWith passage of this historic legislation, Congress will finally deliver on the promise of fundamental tax reform.TCJA will encourage economic growth, simplify the tax code, and provide American families and individuals with much-needed tax relief. . . . lawmakers are casting a vision for the future of this country; one that empowers individuals, families and businesses to invest and succeed in the American dream.\nClickhereor below to read the full letter, and visitspeaker.govto learn more about theTax Cuts and Jobs Act.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/highlights-twitter-tax-reform-qa-rep-noem", "Highlights from the Twitter Tax Reform Q&A with Rep. Noem", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Last week, Speaker Ryan sat down with Ways and Means and Tax Cuts and Jobs Act conference committee member Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD) to hold a live Tax Reform Twitter Q&A. As a rancher, farmer, small business owner, and a mom, Rep. Noem was able to discuss not only what this bill means for South Dakotans, but for hardworking families across the country.\nHere are the highlights:\nHardworking American Families\n \n\tBy dramatically simplifying the code, 90% of Americans will be able to file their taxes on a form the size of a postcard. This also means folks won't have to pay even more for accountants or software to file their taxes. pic.twitter.com/vEDfUlHDLr\n\t Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 18, 2017 \n Were about a decade into a stagnant economy, meaning hardworking people are getting stuck with less take-home pay. Our tax bill is designed to get the economy growing to increase wages and create more jobsright here in America. pic.twitter.com/qBHRmW8M7p Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 18, 2017 \nIndividuals Living in High-Tax States\n \n\tFor folks in highly-taxed states, being able to deduct your state and local taxes from your federal taxes is a big deal. That's why the final version of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act maintains a $10,000 deduction for #SALT. pic.twitter.com/D4B8WWNMTJ\n\t Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 18, 2017 \nSmall Business Owners\n \n\tBy dramatically lowering tax rates, the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act puts Main Street businessesthose mom and pop shops with only a few employeesin a better position to compete locally. pic.twitter.com/2I1wdlGU9y\n\t Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 18, 2017 \n \n\tThe Tax Cuts & Jobs Act lowers the rate on job-creators to below the international average, allowing them to compete on the global stage and encouraging companies to make things here in America. pic.twitter.com/f4yxEm5v5p\n\t Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 18, 2017", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/statement-president-s-national-security-strategy", "Statement on the President\u2019s National Security Strategy", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on President Trumps national security strategy:\nProtecting our nation from the myriad of threats we face is the single most important role of government, and I'm glad President Trump has endorsed this strong vision to keep the American people safe. This strategy places the correct emphasis on confronting our adversaries, bolstering our defenses, and working with our allies to promote peace, security, and democracy. Congress will continue to work with the Trump administration to seek peace through strength, and ensure we have the robust national security posture necessary for the 21st century.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/working-economy", "A Working Economy", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "America is strongest when her people are thriving. But for too long, our economy hasnotbeen meeting its potential. Wages have been stagnant. Good jobs are too scarce. Companies have been fleeing the United States for lower tax rates abroadcausing hardship forfamilies and local communities.\nBut soon, a new day is coming. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will put Americans back on top, with anew tax system designed to give a boost to American businesses big and small.\nFor starters, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, on January 1, 2018, the corporate tax rate will drop from 35 percentthe highest in the industrialized worldto 21 percentAmericas lowest rate since 1940. This alone dramatically reducesthe incentive to ship jobs overseas, and American workers are the beneficiary. When companies invest in the United States, the demand for workers increases, which in turn drives up wages for individuals and families.\nThis legislation will also introduce an entirely new benefit for smaller and medium-sized businesses so that they can compete with bigger corporations. For the first time ever, this bill will introduce a 20 percent tax deduction for the for first $315,000 of joint income earned by all businesses organized as S corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and sole proprietorships. For job creators with income above this level, theyll see up to a 20 percent deduction on business profits, reducing their effective marginal tax rate to no more than 29.6 percent. In short, were giving small businesses a needed rate cut as well.\nBut thats not all. This bill will also allow businesses to write-off the full cost of new equipment and investments in their operations. Full expensing and a lower tax rate will allow Americas biggest industrieslike manufacturing, retail, and energyto redefine how they do business in the 21st century.\nYou can find more specifics in this summary of the conference report, like protecting small business loans and preserving what works in the existing business tax system. But for now, the macro-effect the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will have is clear: America will soon be, once again, the best place to invest and do business.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/mike-bleech-federal-chronic-wasting-disease-legislation-announced", "Mike Bleech: Federal Chronic Wasting Disease legislation announced", "2017-12-17", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: Mike Bleech of theErie Times-News\r\nSince being discovered in a captive mule deer at a Colorado laboratory in the late 1960s, Chronic Wasting Disease has spread to several states and Canadian provinces, as well as overseas. CWD threatens most cervid populations in North America, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and moose. Most, if not all, states and provinces where it has been detected have enacted legislation and adopted regulations to prevent its spread.\r\nNow help might be coming in the form of federal legislation to combat CWD on the national level.\r\nCongressman Ron Kind, WI, and Congressman Jamie Sensenbrenner, WI, introduced on Nov. 21 the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Act (H.R. 4454). This bipartisan legislation would support state and tribal efforts to develop and implement strategies for dealing with CWD. Also it would support research efforts into causes of CWD, and methods for controlling further spread of the disease.\r\nIt was referred to the Committee on Agriculture and to the Committee on Natural Resources, which referred it on Nov. 29 to the Subcommittee on Federal Lands.\r\nWhy Committee on Federal Lands but not to Committee on Natural Resources where it would seem to belong? Isnt that passing the buck? (Theres a bad joke in that.)\r\nDiverting funds to deal with CWD is adversely affecting other wildlife programs that were already stretched thin. This bill would direct the Secretary of Agriculture to authorize $35 million to state and tribal wildlife agencies, and agriculture agencies, to implement CWD management strategies. Grants would become available to entities involved in CWD research. Land management agencies in the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior would work collaboratively with state agencies to address the spread of CWD.\r\nCWD belongs with a group of neurodegenerative disorders that includes Mad Cow Disease that are caused by prions. Prions are infected proteins. Once it has been detected clinically in a cervid, it is always fatal.\r\nCWD has a disheartening capacity for rapid spread. It can be spread directly from animal to animal. It appears that this disease is spread from cervid to cervid, perhaps through feces, urine or saliva. It might be spread from mother to fawn. It can be spread in the habitat for a couple of years after infection.\r\nCWD has been detected in either wild herds or captive herds in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland and New York. In additions, it has been found in Canada  Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Wild herds are infected in 21 states. This is a growing list.\r\nBetween 2004 and 2010, South Korea reported CWD in captive herds. Those animals had been imported from Canada. Also in South Korea, varieties of Sika deer and red deer in a captive facility contracted CWD from elk. Norway reported CWD in 2016.\r\nSymptoms of CWD generally affect behavior. Potential signs are excessive drinking and urinating, a blank stare, repetitive walking, less interaction with other animals, weak appearance and lowered head. The animal probably will be thin. None of these can be considered conclusive evidence of CWD since other disorders may have the same symptoms.\r\nCurrently there is no way to test live deer for CWD. Testing requires examination of the brain, tonsils or lymph nodes after death.\r\nHere in Pennsylvania an executive order directed the Game Commission to establish Disease Management Areas where CWD has been detected. DMA 1 is in Adams County where CWD was detected in 2012 at a captive deer farm. This has since been eliminated. DMA 2 was established where CWD infected deer were detected in wild populations in Bedford, Blair, Cambria and Fulton counties from 2012 to 2017, and at captive deer herds in Bedford, Franklin and Fulton counties in 2017.\r\nAnd getting much too close to the northwestern counties, DMA 3 was established after CWD was detected in a captive deer herd in Jefferson County during 2014, as well as when free-ranging deer were detected with CWD in Clearfield County in 2017.\r\nI would like to urge federal lawmakers to quickly pass the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Act. This could be the salvation of an industry that is important to the budgets of the states and provinces where CWD occurs, to states threatened by it, and to the cherished American traditions of hunting and wildlife watching. This is particularly important to rural communities that depend on income from wildlife tourism.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/historic-trifecta-conservative-policy-goals-nears-reality", "A Historic Trifecta of Conservative Policy Goals Nears Reality", "2017-12-16", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Some big things are within reach. Last night, the finalTax Cuts and Jobs Actwasreleased, following the House-Senate conference committee. This sets up a historic vote next week on legislation that would finally achieve policy goals that conservatives have pursued for years and even decades.\nTake a step back and see what this legislation could accomplish.\n1.It is the first major tax reform in a generation.\nThis is, of course, the biggest deal. Considered the \"crown jewel\" of a conservative policy agenda, tax reform is what is needed to boost the economy, create jobs, and of course, cut taxes. It's something Republicans have talked about for years. For families, our plan lowers individual tax rates, making sure Americans get to keep more of their hard-earned money. It also nearlydoubles the standard deduction, meaning that the zero bracket, which the federal government doesnt tax at all, will be expanded to $12,000 for single filers and $24,000 for married couples. And our plan also doubles the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 for each childbringing relief to folks raising families.\nWhat do these updated provisions mean for real people? The average family of four making $73,000 a year will see atax cut of $2,059. The plan also restores fairness and brings the tax code into the 21st century. It eliminates the carve-outs for special interests, prioritizing the American people over the well-connected. It lowers taxes for American job-creators, big and small, making America more competitive with the rest of the world, creating new opportunity, and boosting up wages. As theWall Street Journalput it, it's \"a tax reform for growth.\"\n2.It eliminates Obamacares individual mandate penalty tax.\nThis is the linchpin of Obamacarethe individual mandate makes it illegal for people not to purchase a government-approved health care plan, and the government levies a major tax if people make the choice not to. Republicans in Congress have voted countless times to repeal this burden, but have never been able to get a bill into law. That could change very soon.\nThe individual mandate punishes people for making decisions that make the most sense for them and their family. TheTax Cuts and Jobs Actdoes away with it, giving peoplemuch-needed relief and flexibilityto buy the health care thats right for them.\n3.It opens up part of ANWR for energy development.\nThere is a section of non-wilderness federal land in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), located in Alaska, that is known to be abundant in oil reserves. Unfortunately, it has been previously banned for energy development, thanks to the insistence of special interests. This ban goes against the petitions of the Alaska delegation, which understands the benefits that oil drilling would bring to the state. If it becomes law, theTax Cuts and Jobs Actwillopen this area up for energy exploration and development.\nThis would mean more energy developed here at home, instead of relying on other nations for our nations energy needs. Developing homegrown energy is always preferable, especially because some of these nations are hostile to the United States and our interests. It also means revenue of almost $1 billion in 10 years streaming into the United States Treasury, helping pay for the tax cut that Americans need and deserve. Developing this portion of ANWR also means thousands of good-paying jobs in Alaska and throughout the country. It would give the U.S. economy the boost that comes with major energy development.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gwenmoore.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2589", "Reps. Moore and Paulsen Introduce Legislation to Help Trafficking Victims, Invest in Resources and Training", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Gwen Moore", "M001160", "gwenmoore.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Reps. Moore and Paulsen Introduce Legislation to Help Trafficking Victims, Invest in Resources and Training  \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \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        December 15, 2017\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      \r\n      \r\n      Washington, D.C.  This week, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) and Congressman Erik Paulsen (MN-03) introduced the Trafficking Victims Protection Act to promote justice and services for trafficking survivors. This legislation encourages federal agencies to promptly report data on human trafficking offenses to the FBI and requires the Department of Homeland Security to submit an annual assessment on trends from human trafficking investigations. It also further improves training for law enforcement personnel by promoting a victim-centered approach to combatting human trafficking.Additionally, the bill formally authorizes an Office of Victim Assistance within the Department of Homeland Security.  The specially trained victim assistance personnel at this office play a crucial role in securing victims cooperation with trafficking investigations. For far too long, Americas criminal justice system has failed to protect those who have fallen victim to human trafficking, said Congresswoman Moore. In order to substantively combat this pervasive and complex issue, local and federal law enforcement officials must have the tools and training necessary to identify and respond to human trafficking in all of its forms. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2017 not only addresses these concerns, but also builds upon the progress of the Violence Against Women Act to strengthen existing laws and grant federal agencies the capacity to provide critical services to trafficking survivors. During a time in our national politics when sensible legislation is regularly stymied by partisan entrenchment, I take great pride in the work Rep. Erik Paulsen and I have achieved in developing a bipartisan approach to end this form of modern-day slavery. When human trafficking survivors are freed from this modern-day slavery, we need to make sure these victims have the resources they need to get back on their feet and get the justice they deserve, said Congressman Paulsen. We must remain diligent in the effort to end sex trafficking and bolster the tools we have to help those in need.\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://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-addresses-sexual-harassment-of-tipped-workers", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues to Call on EEOC to Address Rampant Sexual Harassment of Tipped Workers", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.15.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues to Call on EEOC to Address Rampant Sexual Harassment of Tipped Workers \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 Sexual Harassment Remains Persistent Problem for Tipped Workers, Particularly Women of Color\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today joined18 of her colleaguesin sending a letter to Acting Chair of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Victoria Lipnic requesting information onthe commissionsefforts to address sexual harassment in the food and hospitality industries, which have high numbers of tipped workers. The EEOC is responsible for enforcing federal workplace anti-discrimination laws andinvestigatingdiscrimination charges that employees file with the commission.In fiscal year 2016alone, the EEOC received close to 13,000 complaints involving sexual harassment.?\r\nSexual harassment is pervasive throughout the United States, and it does not discriminate by industry. Yet EEOC data shows that theaccommodation and food servicesindustryincluding restaurants and the hospitality industryis particularly rife with harassment,wrote the Senators. Sexual harassment remains a persistent problem for American workersparticularly women and people of color.\r\nFrom fiscal years 2005 to 2015, complaints from accommodation and food services workers accounted for 14.2% of all sexual harassment allegations filed with the EEOC.Over 60% of workers who rely on tips are women, and 40% are people of color.Data show that tipped workers are particularly susceptible to sexual harassment. Some evidence also suggests that tipped workers who are paid less than the minimum wage experience higher rates of sexual harassment than tipped workers paid the standard minimum wage.\r\nTo better understand the EEOCs ongoing efforts to address sexual harassment, the senators asked the EEOC to provide thorough answers on what the EEOC has done to identify, investigate, and limit sexual harassment in the workplace no later thanJanuary 5, 2018.\r\nThe letter was led by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and also signed by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA).\r\nA copy of the letter is available here.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Press Release\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-urging-resources-to-opioid-epidemic", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Bipartisan Group of Senators Urging Congressional Leadership to Commit Resources to Opioid Epidemic", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.15.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Bipartisan Group of Senators Urging Congressional Leadership to Commit Resources to Opioid Epidemic \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  As the Nations opioid epidemic continues to ravage communities across the country, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin joined a bipartisan coalition in calling on Senate leadership to provide states with the resources they need to tackle this ongoing public health emergency.\r\nIn their letter, the bipartisan group urge Leaders Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to include additional funding dedicated to addressing the crisis in the upcoming supplemental and omnibus appropriations legislation.\r\nOpioid misuse is not a partisan issue. It is ravaging communities in every state and preys upon individuals and families regardless of party affiliation, wrote the Senators. We have worked together on this issue in the past, and with the clear statement from Acting Secretary Hargan that the administration is looking for Congress to lead the way, it is time for us to work together again. As the Senate considers pending supplemental and omnibus appropriation legislation, please make every effort to ensure that new, substantial and sustained funding for the opioid epidemic is included in any legislative package.\r\nIn addition to Senator Baldwin, Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) also signed the letter.\r\nThe full text of the letter is available here and can be seen below:\r\nDecember 15, 2017\r\nDear Majority Leader McConnell and Democratic Leader Schumer:\r\nWe write today to discuss our Nations opioid misuse epidemic and the urgent need for Congress to provide our states with the resources they need to deal with this public health emergency. In light of recent statements from the administration asking Congress to act on this issue, we believe the upcoming supplemental and omnibus appropriations legislation present significant opportunities for additional funding.\r\nAs you are aware, the opioid misuse epidemic is taking a toll on individuals, families and communities across the Nation. It is tearing apart families and straining the resources of local governments, law enforcement and public health agencies. Although we are pleased by the recent declaration of the epidemic as a public health emergency, that action needs to be coupled with adequate, sustained resources.\r\nOn December 4, Acting HHS Secretary Eric Hargan stated that the administration is looking forward to hearing from Congress about how they intend to address this. That means it is up to us to act. We urge you to advance a spending package that will provide substantial new resources for our families and our communities who have waited too long for help. Although the measures in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), the 21st Century Cures legislation and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 were important first steps, we must now build upon those efforts to ensure that states have adequate resources for first responders, enforcement, prevention efforts and treatment and recovery services. We must also provide more resources for research into addiction and pain, to gain a better understanding of the disease and develop innovative new treatments for substance misuse.\r\nOpioid misuse is not a partisan issue. It is ravaging communities in every state and preys upon individuals and families regardless of party affiliation. We have worked together on this issue in the past, and with the clear statement from Acting Secretary Hargan that the administration is looking for Congress to lead the way, it is time for us to work together again. As the Senate considers pending supplemental and omnibus appropriation legislation, please make every effort to ensure that new, substantial and sustained funding for the opioid epidemic is included in any legislative package.\r\nThank you and we look forward to working with you to ensure that our communities receive the resources they need to effectively address this national crisis.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/policy-highlights-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-conference-report", "Policy Highlights of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Conference Report", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) overhauls Americas tax code to deliver historic tax relief for workers, families and job creators, and revitalize our nations economy. By lowering taxes across the board, eliminating costly special-interest tax breaks, and modernizing our international tax system, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help create more jobs, increase paychecks, and make the tax code simpler and fairer for Americans of all walks of life.\n\nWith this bill, the typical family of four earning the median family income of $73,000 will receive a tax cut of $2,059.\n\nFor individuals and families, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:\n\n Lowers individual taxes and sets the rates at 0%, 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37% so people can keep more of their hard-earned money.\n\n Significantly increases the standard deduction to protect roughly double the amount of what you earn each year from taxes  from $6,500 and $13,000 under current law to $12,000 and $24,000 for individuals and married couples, respectively.\n\n Continues to allow people to write off the cost of state and local taxes up to $10,000. Gives individuals and families the ability to deduct property taxes and income  or sales  taxes to best fit their unique circumstances.\n\n Takes action to support more American families by:\n\n Expanding the Child Tax Credit from $1,000 to $2,000 for single filers and married couples to help parents with the cost of raising children. The tax credit is fully refundable up to $1,400 and begins to phase-out for families making over $400,000. Parents must provide a childs valid Social Security Number in order to receive this credit.\n\n Preserving the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help families care for their children and older dependents such as a disabled grandparent who may need additional support.\n\n Preserving the Adoption Tax Credit so parents can continue to receive additional tax relief as they open their hearts and homes to an adopted child.\n\n Preserves the mortgage interest deduction  providing tax relief to current and aspiring homeowners.\n\n For all homeowners with existing mortgages that were taken out to buy a home, there will be no change to the current mortgage interest deduction.\n\n For homeowners with new mortgages on a first or second home, the home mortgage interest deduction will be available up to $750,000.\n\n Provides relief for Americans with expensive medical bills by expanding the medical expense deduction for 2017 and 2018 for medical expenses exceeding 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income, and rising to 10 percent beginning in 2019.\n\n Continues and expands the deduction for charitable contributions so people can continue to donate to their local church, charity, or community organization.\n\n Eliminates Obamacares individual mandate penalty tax  providing families with much-needed relief and flexibility to buy the health care thats right for them if they choose.\n\n Maintains the Earned Income Tax Credit to provide important tax relief for low-income Americans working to build better lives for themselves.\n\n Improves savings vehicles for education by allowing families to use 529 accounts to save for elementary, secondary and higher education.\n\n Provides support for graduate students by continuing to exempt the value of reduced tuition from taxes.\n\n Retains popular retirement savings options such as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) so Americans can continue to save for their future.\n\n Increases the exemption amount from the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) to reduce the complexity and tax burden for millions of Americans.\n\n Provides immediate relief from the Death Tax by doubling the amount of the current exemption to reduce uncertainty and costs for many family-owned farms and businesses when they pass down their lifes work to the next generation.\n\nFor job creators of all sizes, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:\n\n Lowers the corporate tax rate to 21% (beginning Jan. 1, 2018)  down from 35%, which today is the highest in the industrialized world  the largest reduction in the U.S. corporate tax rate in our nations history.\n\n Delivers significant tax relief to Main Street job creators by:\n\n Offering a first-ever 20% tax deduction that applies to the first $315,000 of joint income earned by all businesses organized as S corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and sole proprietorships. For Main Street job creators with income above this level, the bill generally provides a deduction for up to 20% on business profits  reducing their effective marginal tax rate to no more than 29.6%.\n\n Establishing strong safeguards so that wage income does not receive the lower marginal effective tax rates on business income  helping to ensure that Main Street tax relief goes to the local job creators it was designed to help most.\n\n Allows businesses to immediately write off the full cost of new equipment to improve operations and enhance the skills of their workers  unleashing growth of jobs, productivity, and paychecks.\n\n Protects the ability of small businesses to write off interest on loans, helping these Main Street entrepreneurs start or expand a business, hire workers, and increase paychecks.\n\n Preserves important elements of the existing business tax system, including:\n\n Retaining the low-income housing tax credit that encourages businesses to invest in affordable housing so families, individuals, and seniors can find a safe and comfortable place to call home.\n\n Preserving the Research & Development Tax Credit that encourages our businesses and workers to develop cutting-edge Made in America products and services.\n\n Retaining the tax-preferred status of private-activity bonds that are used to finance valuable infrastructure projects.\n\n Eliminates the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax, thereby lowering taxes and eliminating confusion and uncertainty so American job creators can focus on growing their business and hiring more workers, rather than on burdensome paperwork.\n\n Modernizes our international tax system so Americas global businesses will no longer be held back by an outdated worldwide tax system that results in double taxation for many of our nations job creators.\n\n Makes it easier for American businesses to bring home foreign earnings to invest in growing jobs and paychecks in our local communities.\n\n Prevents American jobs, headquarters, and research from moving overseas by eliminating incentives that now reward companies for shifting jobs, profits, and manufacturing plants abroad.\n\nFor greater American energy security and economic growth, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act:\n\n Establishes an environmentally responsible oil and gas program in the non-wilderness 1002 Area of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Congress specifically set aside the 1.57-million acre 1002 Area for potential future development. Two lease sales will be held over the next decade and surface development will be limited to 2,000 federal acres  just one ten-thousandth of all of ANWR.\n\n Significantly boosts American energy production. Responsible development in the 1002 Area will raise tens of billions of dollars for deficit reduction in the decades to come, while creating thousands of new jobs, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and helping to keep energy affordable for American families and businesses.\n\n Provides a temporary increase in offshore revenue sharing for the Gulf Coast in 2020 and 2021, allowing those states to invest in priorities such as coastal restoration and hurricane protection.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-tax-reform-conference-report", "Statement on Tax Reform Conference Report", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONHouse Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement on the release of the House-Senate conference report for H.R. 1, theTax Cuts and Jobs Act:\nThis is what the American people have been waiting for: more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks. The conference committee took the best ideas from the House and Senate plans and made an even better bill. TheTax Cuts and Jobs Actis now only two votes and a signature away from becoming the law of the land.\nThis is the first major tax reform in a generation. It means relief for hardworking families and a jumpstart for our economy. Were in the final stretchand were ready to get this done for the American people by Christmas.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gallagher.house.gov/media/press-releases/gallagher-launches-congressional-reformers-caucus", "Gallagher Launches Congressional Reformers Caucus", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Mike Gallagher", "G000579", "gallagher.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Rep. Mike Gallagher and a group of 17 House lawmakers launched the first-of-its kind, bipartisan Congressional Reformers Caucus. The founding members have pledged to work across the aisle to restore trust in democratic institutions. The caucus will focus on promoting transparency and disclosure, increasing participation in elections, reducing pay-to-play, strengthening enforcement of existing laws, and improving government integrity and accountability. Rep. Gallagher said: A key takeaway from my first year in Congress is that the problems we face as a nation do not need any more Washington D.C. solutions, they need some Wisconsin common sense. Calling for reforms might not make me popular with my colleagues, but I didnt run for Congress to be popularI ran to fix problems and thats why Im proud to launch the Congressional Reformers Caucus. Only by working together in a transparent manner will we renew the American peoples flagging trust in government. Since taking office last January, Rep. Gallagher has made decreasing the size and influence of the federal government, and restoring power back to the American people a top priority. Below is a list of legislation supported or introduced by Rep. Gallagher, in addition to his caucus membership and op-eds on congressional reform. Sponsored Legislation:\n H.R. 1934 - To establish a 5-year ban on individuals appointed to Executive Schedule positions and Members of Congress engaging in lobby activities at the Federal level\n\tH.R. 1935 - Congressional Pension Reform Act\n\tH.R. 1936 - Do Your Job Act\n\tH.J. Res. 85 - Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States limiting the number of terms Senators and Representatives may serve\n   Co-sponsored Legislation:\n H.R. 2665 - Accountability for Congressional Pay Act\n\tH.R. 2298 - Former Presidents Amendment Act\n\tH.R. 429 - No Budget, No Pay Act\n\tH.R. 4077 - Honest Ads Act\n\tH.R. 2192 - To amend the Public Health Service Act to eliminate the non-application of certain State waiver provisions to Members of Congress and congressional staff\n\tH.J. Res. 7 - Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of years an individual may serve as a Member of Congress\n\tH.J. Res. 2 - Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States\n\tH.J. Res. 1 - Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States\n\tH. Res. 43 - Stay on Schedule Resolution\n\tH. Con. Res. 28 - Establishing a Joint Committee on the Organization of Congress\n   Caucus Membership:\n Congressional Reformers Caucus\n\tTerm Limits Caucus\n\tFuture Caucus\n\tProblem Solvers Caucus\n Op-eds:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gallagher.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-gallagher-launches-congressional-reformers-caucus", "ICYMI: Gallagher Launches Congressional Reformers Caucus", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Mike Gallagher", "G000579", "gallagher.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Mike Gallagher and a group of 17 House lawmakers launched the first-of-its kind, bipartisan Congressional Reformers Caucus. The founding members have pledged to work across the aisle to restore trust in democratic institutions. The caucus will focus on promoting transparency and disclosure, increasing participation in elections, reducing pay-to-play, strengthening enforcement of existing laws, and improving government integrity and accountability. Rep. Gallagher said: \u201cA key takeaway from my first year in Congress is that the problems we face as a nation do not need any more Washington D.C. solutions, they need some Wisconsin common sense. Calling for reforms might not make me popular with my colleagues, but I didn\u2019t run for Congress to be popular\u2014I ran to fix problems and that\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to launch the Congressional Reformers Caucus. Only by working together in a transparent manner will we renew the American people\u2019s flagging trust in government.\u201d Since taking office last January, Rep. Gallagher has made decreasing the size and influence of the federal government, and restoring power back to the American people a top priority. Below is a list of legislation supported or introduced by Rep. Gallagher, in addition to his caucus membership and op-eds on congressional reform. Sponsored Legislation:\n H.R. 1934 - To establish a 5-year ban on individuals appointed to Executive Schedule positions and Members of Congress engaging in lobby activities at the Federal level\n\tH.R. 1935 - Congressional Pension Reform Act\n\tH.R. 1936 - Do Your Job Act\n\tH.J. Res. 85 - Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States limiting the number of terms Senators and Representatives may serve\n   Co-sponsored Legislation:\n H.R. 2665 - Accountability for Congressional Pay Act\n\tH.R. 2298 - Former Presidents Amendment Act\n\tH.R. 429 - No Budget, No Pay Act\n\tH.R. 4077 - Honest Ads Act\n\tH.R. 2192 - To amend the Public Health Service Act to eliminate the non-application of certain State waiver provisions to Members of Congress and congressional staff\n\tH.J. Res. 7 - Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of years an individual may serve as a Member of Congress\n\tH.J. Res. 2 - Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States\n\tH.J. Res. 1 - Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States\n\tH. Res. 43 - Stay on Schedule Resolution\n\tH. Con. Res. 28 - Establishing a Joint Committee on the Organization of Congress\n   Caucus Membership:\n Congressional Reformers Caucus\n\tTerm Limits Caucus\n\tFuture Caucus\n\tProblem Solvers Caucus\n \u00a0Op-eds:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pocan-statement-on-fcc-vote-to-end-net-neutrality", "Pocan Statement on FCC Vote to End Net Neutrality", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Mark Pocan", "P000607", "pocan.house.gov", "pocan", "https://pocan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC (December 14, 2017) \u2013 U.S. Representative Mark Pocan (WI-02) today released the following statement regarding the Federal Communications Commission's vote to eliminate the Open Internet Order and end the long held principle of net neutrality.\n\n\"Millions of Americans have called on the FCC to support an open Internet, not one that is controlled by a handful of powerful corporations that could charge extra for higher speeds and more access. Despite these calls, the FCC rejected the will of the American people and voted to hand the Internet over to special interests.\n\n\"Net neutrality evens the playing field, protects consumers, and ensures that small businesses can remain competitive. Now that the FCC has completed a process filled with secrecy, technical flaws, and fraud, this decision must be revisited. Congress should immediately find a legislative solution to ensure that net neutrality remains the law.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T22:19:19Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/a-bipartisan-effort-that-will-save-lives", "A bipartisan effort that will save lives", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: Jim Sensenbrenner\r\nWe have a long-standing tradition of embracing outdoor recreation in Wisconsin. Our four seasons provide picturesque opportunities for hiking, boating, ice fishing and hunting. In fact, hunting is a hobby embraced by families across our great state that bonds together people from all walks of life.    The joy of hunting is just one of the many ways law-abiding Wisconsinites exercise their constitutionally protected right to bear arms  a right I have long defended.    In light of the many tragic shootings in our nation, much has been debated about firearm availability and safety. We can all agree that its essential to deny the sale of firearms to convicted felons, drug users, illegal aliens, those convicted of domestic violence and anyone deemed by a judge to be mentally ill. I have consistently supported this principle throughout my career in Congress, including in 1993, when I worked with members on both sides of the aisle to pass the Brady Handgun Prevention Act.    The law bears the namesake of my friend, Jim Brady, press secretary to President Ronald Reagan. Brady was critically injured during an assassination attempt on President Reagan by John Hinckley Jr.  a man whose record included both recent arrests and mental illness.    As members drafted the Brady Bill, I insisted on the inclusion of a timely background check system to prevent similar tragedies. This effort led to the 1998 launch of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System under the control of the FBI, now commonly known as NICS.    Under the system, firearm dealers cross-reference the information of prospective buyers with NICS data, to ensure that the purchaser is not on the list of convicted felons, drug users, illegal aliens, or those convicted of domestic violence.    Butas I have stated many times, NICS is only as strong as the information entered into it. If federal agencies or other law enforcement bodies fail to provide NICS with the necessary information, dangerous individuals will slip through the cracks and purchase firearms.    To combat this, I recently supported passage of bipartisan legislation that protects the rights of all Wisconsinites and strengthens the enforcement of laws already on the books. The bill passed the House by a 231-198 vote.    The legislation puts measures in place to compel federal agencies to comply with existing NICS statutes. The bill also provides additional funding to assist state and local governments in providing all relevant information to NICS. Ensuring that the existing system functions properly will help us avoid future tragedies, like those in recent events.    On a Sunday morning this past October, a disturbed individual burst into a Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, shooting and killing 26 churchgoers and injuring 20 others. The shooter, who received a bad conduct discharge from the military and had a documented history of domestic abuse, unfortunately, had no trouble purchasing his weapons. Had the Department of Defense properly reported his history to the FBI, he would have been flagged in NICS, and the dealer would have been legally obligated to deny the sale. Furthermore, local enforcement would have been notified about the attempted purchase.    I dont live under the illusion that bad people will stop doing evil things but I know that there are meaningful actions that we as a society can take to make it much more difficult for evil-doers to do harm.    Im encouraged to see both Republicans and Democrats in the House come together to take action on these issues, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to move quickly to pass this legislation. I remain committed to the oath that I took to uphold the Constitution and will continue to seek bipartisan solutions to keep our nation safe.\r\nJim Sensenbrenner, a Republican, represents Wisconsin's 5th District and is a member of the Judiciary Committee.\r\nYou can read this piece online here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/sensenbrenner-presses-epa-administrator-for-information-regarding-fuel-policy", "Sensenbrenner Presses EPA Administrator for Information Regarding Fuel Policy", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u2014 Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (WI-05) sent a letter to United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt asking him to complete the agency\u2019s statutory requirement for informing Congress of the Renewable Fuel Standard\u2019s (RFS) impact on our environment.\r\nCongressman Sensenbrenner: \u201cAs policymakers, we rely on updated data and analysis to make informed decisions. I welcome additional research into the RFS by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, as the EPA has done a poor job of informing Congress of any adverse environmental impacts of our national biofuels mandate.\u201d\r\nThe full text of the letter is available below:\r\nDear Administrator Pruitt:\r\nRecently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized its Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes for 2018, proposing that 19.29 billion gallons of renewable fuel be blended in our fuel supply, with the lion\u2019s share going to conventional biofuel. While a primary driver behind the RFS\u2019s creation and expansion was to give the United States greater energy independence\u2013 an issue that has largely been addressed thanks to our domestic oil and natural gas renaissance \u2013 many of its congressional champions continue to tout its supposed environmental benefits, including its positive impact on reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with climate change.\r\nA recent study published by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, however, questions the degree to which our biofuels mandate actually reduces carbon emissions. Their research found that the expansion of cropland that occurred from 2008-2012 resulted in the release of significant carbon deposits from the soil, and that these emissions were largely driven by the conversion of grasslands into land for crop production. This spike in land conversion coincided with enactment of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which greatly expanded our biofuels mandate. The release of extra carbon is notable, as the greenhouse gas is a contributor to climate change. What\u2019s more, due to its lower energy content, gasoline blended with ethanol get fewer miles per gallon than regular gas, meaning cars require more of it to travel the same distance, further hurting the claim that the RFS is environmentally friendly.\u00a0\r\nFurther analysis into biofuels from university researchers is not only welcomed, but needed, as EPA has not fulfilled its statutory obligation to inform Congress on the environmental and conservation impacts of the RFS and hasn\u2019t completed a triannual congressional impact report since 2011.\r\nIn addition, your agency never completed an anti-backsliding study to determine if our ethanol mandate negatively impacts air quality.\r\nAs we approach 2022, when the statutory volume requirement for biofuels ends, it\u2019s critical that policymakers have a complete picture of how the RFS affects not only our economy, but also our environment. With this in mind, please answer the following questions by January 31, 2018:\r\nI. Does the RFS increase the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere?\r\nII. Is EPA concerned by the amount of grasslands and forestlands that have been converted into cropland in recent years?\r\nIII. Does EPA take into account the effects our biofuels mandate has on land and air quality \u2013 including carbon emissions \u2013 when determining annual renewable fuel volume obligations (RVOs)?\r\n \r\nIf yes, how do the results impact your decision making?\r\n \r\nIV. Do I have your assurance that EPA will, as required, complete and send Congress an updated triannual congressional impact study on the RFS?\r\n \r\nIf yes, when can it be expected?\r\nIf no, why can\u2019t it be completed?\r\n \r\nV. Do you think it would beneficial for EPA to complete an anti-backsliding air quality study before announcing future RVOs?\r\n\r\nVI. Do I have your assurance that EPA will, as required, send Congress an anti-backsliding air study on the RFS?\r\n \r\nIf yes, when can it be expected?\r\nIf no, why can\u2019t it be completed?\r\n \r\nThank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your response.\r\nSincerely,\r\nF. JAMES SENSENBRENNER, JR.\r\nMember of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-fights-to-restore-fcc-net-neutrality-rules", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues to Fight to Restore FCC’s Net Neutrality Rules", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues to Fight to Restore FCC\u2019s Net Neutrality Rules \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 CRA resolution would reinstate robust net neutrality protections and the Open Internet Order\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and 15 other Senators today announced their plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would undo today\u2019s action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and restore the 2015 net neutrality rules.\r\n\r\nToday, the FCC approved an item that removes the 2015 Open Internet Order, which the D.C. Circuit Court upheld in 2016. The Open Internet Order prohibited internet service providers from setting up internet fast and slow lanes and ensured they could not block or slow down internet traffic.\r\n\r\n\u201cToday the FCC voted to roll back net neutrality rules and allow internet service providers to create an uneven playing field in the online marketplace for services and ideas,\u201d said Senator Baldwin. \u201cWe must work to ensure that the internet does not become a two-tiered system, with fast lanes for some and slow lanes for others. Net neutrality is a principle that is at the heart of an accessible and free internet, and I believe we need to protect innovators, entrepreneurs and consumers and keep the internet open for everyone.\u201d\r\n\r\nThe CRA resolution, led by Senator Markey (D-MA), would rescind FCC Chairman Ajit Pai\u2019s item and fully restore the Open Internet Order. CRA resolutions allow Congress to overturn regulatory actions at federal agencies with a simple majority vote in both chambers.\u00a0 In accordance with the Congressional Review Act, the Senators will formally introduce the resolution once the rule is submitted to both houses of Congress and published in the federal register. Congressman Mike Doyle (D-PA) plans to introduce a CRA resolution in the House of Representatives.\u00a0\u00a0\r\n\r\nAlong with Senator Baldwin, the CRA resolution was cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D\u2013CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH).\r\n\r\nA copy of the CRA can be found here.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-supports-legislation-to-combat-sexual-harassment", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Helps Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Sexual Harassment and Discrimination in Congress", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Helps Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Sexual Harassment and Discrimination in Congress \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 The Congressional Harassment Reform Act to Bring Transparency and Accountability to Sexual Harassment Reporting Process\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin today helped introduce new, bipartisan legislation that would overhaul the current process that victims of harassment and discrimination in Congress must go through when reporting a claim.\r\nThe\u00a0bipartisan Congressional Harassment Reform Act, led by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY),\u00a0would bring transparency and accountability to the current process by extending protections to interns and fellows, eliminating forced mediation, ending the current required secrecy in the process by allowing victims to speak publicly about their case, requiring Members of Congress found personally liable for harassment to pay settlements out of their own pockets, and improving systems to address harassment and discrimination in Congress.\r\n\u201cWe need to make major changes here in Congress and get our house in order. The current process for victims of sexual harassment or discrimination on Capitol Hill is difficult to navigate and lacks transparency,\u201d said Senator Baldwin. \u201cThis needs to change and Senator Gillibrand\u2019s bipartisan legislation will reform the current process so it works better for victims and provides more transparency to the public.\"\u00a0\r\nSpecifically, the\u00a0Congressional Harassment Reform Act:\r\n \r\nExtends protections against harassment and discrimination to interns and fellows.\r\nRequires everyone working on Capitol Hill, including Members, to undergo training on harassment and discrimination.\r\nChanges the name of the Office of Compliance (OOC) to the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights.\r\nPuts victims in the driver\u2019s seat by allowing them to choose how to resolve their complaint (e.g. counseling and mediation are both no longer mandatory) and protecting their option to discuss their claim publicly.\r\nEstablishes a Confidential Advisor to consult, on a confidential basis, with any employee who has alleged harassment or discrimination; and assist any employee who has an allegation under Title IV in understanding the procedures, and the significance of the procedures.\r\nGives OOC\u2019s General Counsel the authority to conduct interviews and gather evidence regarding complaints of covered harassment and discrimination filed under this section, including interviews with former employees.\r\nAllows individuals to work remotely without penalty throughout proceedings.\r\nImproves tracking of complaints and procedures by implementing an online platform.\r\nRequires that if a Member of Congress is found to be personally liable for harassment or discrimination, they will be responsible for the cost of any settlement.\r\nRequires that if a Member of Congress is found to be personally liable for harassment or discrimination, any settlement must be approved by the Senate or House Ethics Committee.\r\nRequires that all settlements will be publicly disclosed unless the victims choose to keep them private.\r\nRequires offices to post notices with information about employees\u2019 rights and how to contact the Office of Compliance.\r\nProvides for a climate survey to identify the pervasiveness of the problem and what gaps continue to exist in its resolution.\u00a0\u00a0\r\n \r\nIn addition to Senator Baldwin, the following Senators are original cosponsors of the legislation: Ted Cruz (R-TX), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Kamala Harris (D-CA), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).\r\nA copy of the legislation can be found here.\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senators-propose-bipartisan-american-timber-economy-reform", "Senators Baldwin, Johnson and Klobuchar Propose Bipartisan Reform to Enhance American Timber Economy", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n\t\t\t Senators Baldwin, Johnson and Klobuchar Propose Bipartisan Reform to Enhance American Timber Economy \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 The Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act would update Good Neighbor Authority to avoid timber harvest delays, allow needed road repairs\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin is continuing her advocacy for the forest products industry by introducing the bipartisan Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act that would amend the 2014 Farm Bill to allow the Forest Service\u2019s Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) to cover forest management efforts that require road repair, improve forest access and complete stalled Forest Service projects. The bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).\r\nThe Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act proactively addresses the need to conduct road repairs in order to complete Forest Service projects in the next few years. This modification also supports ecosystem goals by improving forest health, restoring wildlife and fish habitat and improving water quality.\r\n\u201cGood Neighbor Authority has proven to be a very useful tool to accelerate the pace of work done on our national forests. We have made real progress in in recent years both in forest restoration and in increasing timber sales. In order to keep moving forward, we need to update Good Neighbor Authority and I\u2019m proud of the bipartisan coalition we have built in support of that effort,\u201d said Senator Baldwin. \u201cThis needed update will lead to more gains in forest health and wildlife habitat, while continuing the increased timber sales we\u2019ve seen in recent years and meeting long-term forest stewardship goals for our national forests.\u201d\r\n\u201cWhile having the GNA program in place since 2016 has boosted the logging economy across northern Wisconsin, we need to remove the program\u2019s current exemption on the use of GNA funds to fix permanent forest roads. When a bid turns into a sale and a cut is lined up, we can\u2019t let a forest road in need of repair slow down the process,\u201d said Senator Johnson. \u201cI\u2019m proud to partner with my colleagues to push for an improvement in a program that is helping Wisconsin loggers not just survive, but begin to thrive.\u201d\r\n\u201cMinnesota\u2019s forests don\u2019t just provide recreational opportunities and environmental benefits. They can also sustain rural economies,\u201d said Senator Klobuchar. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will continue to encourage collaboration between the U.S. Forest Service and state agencies to undertake forest management projects, which will help protect water resources, enhance wildlife habitat, restore forest health, and strengthen our local economies.\u201d\r\nDuring her time in the United States Senate, Senator Baldwin has worked to ensure the U.S. Forest Service has the tools it needs to work with the timber industry and wildlife advocates to meet goals the Forest Service has for sustainable timber harvest, forest restoration, and wildlife habitat. In October 2014, she hosted Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell for a discussion of forest management issues in Wisconsin, and pressed him to ensure that tools including stewardship contracting and \u201cGood Neighbor Authority\u201d were used in Wisconsin.\r\n\u201cThe Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association (GLTPA) is very appreciative for Senator Baldwin\u2019s commitment to ensure full utilization of the Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) authorized in the 2014 Farm Bill,\u201d said GLTPA President Max Ericson. \u201cWe are confident this legislation will greatly enhance the productivity of Wisconsin\u2019s already successful GNA program.\u201d\r\n\u201cWe fully support and appreciate Senator Baldwin\u2019s efforts to amend the Agriculture Act of 2014, addressing necessary language changes regarding forest roads integral to the continued success of Good Neighbor Authority in the State of Wisconsin,\u201d\u00a0said Norman K. Bickford, President, Wisconsin County Forests Association Board of Directors.\u00a0\r\n\u201cWe expect this bill will provide numerous additional opportunities for state forestry agencies to work together and more efficiently with our federal partners on federal forest lands.\u00a0It is simply good government,\u201d said George Geissler, President of the National Association of State Foresters and Oklahoma State Forester.\u00a0 \u00a0\r\n\u201cAs the management budget of the Forest Service is depleted by larger and more devastating wildfires, it is increasingly important to allow states to lend a hand in federal forest restoration,\u201d said Ben B. Hollingsworth Jr., President of the Boone and Crockett Club. \u201cThe Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act will allow states to work on a broader array of projects to create healthier forests. This is good for the health and vitality of our federal forest public lands, our water quality, the wildlife living there, and everyone who relies on these lands for outdoor recreation.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act represents a mid-western, common sense improvement to the Good Neighbor Authority, which will benefit our National Forests and surrounding rural communities,\u201d said Steve Kariainen, Forest Resources Association Lake States Coordinator.\r\nThe Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act is supported by the Federal Forest Resource Coalition, Forest Resources Association, National Association of State Foresters, Hardwood Federation, Boone and Crockett Club, Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, Wisconsin County Forests Association, LP Building Products, Flambeau River Paper Mill, Futurewood Corporation and Johnson Timber Corporation.\r\nSenator Baldwin supported the 2014 Farm Bill that authorized the use of Good Neighbor Authority. The bill also permanently authorized Stewardship Contracting, which allows the Forest Service to partner with stakeholder groups to accomplish forest management and wildlife habitat restoration projects.\r\nAs a strong supporter of Wisconsin\u2019s timber economy, Senator Baldwin\u00a0championed the use of Good Neighbor Authority in Wisconsin. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the Wisconsin DNR established an agreement to work together under the authority in 2015.\u00a0\r\nSince then, Good Neighbor contributed to a substantial increase in timber harvest in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, along with Stewardship Agreements and the work of the Forest Service.\u00a0 Timber sales on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest have risen steadily in recent years, from 77.1 million board feet (mmbf) in 2014 to 81.1 mmbf in 2015 to 114.8 mmbf in 2016. The Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act will allow increased sales and forest restoration projects to continue.\r\nRead the full text of the Good Neighbor Authority Improvement Act here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/highlights-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-open-conference-meeting", "Highlights from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Open Conference Meeting", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Yesterday, members of the House-Senate conference committee convened in the Capitol for a public meeting on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. In case you missed Taxmas, here are the highlights of the conferees\u2019 opening statements:\nChairman Kevin Brady: \u201cWe decided not only what we wanted our tax code to stand for, but who it would stand with. Whether that was Washington special interests or all the workers, families, and local job creators. . . . We chose the American people.\u201d\nRep. Devin Nunes: \u201cAt the end of the day we must simply ask ourselves whether we want to stick with today\u2019s complex, punitive, and unfair tax code. Or take the courageous step necessary to unshackle our economy to the benefit of all Americans.\u201d\nRep. Peter Roskam: \u201cWe are talking about a trajectory that will impact our nation like no other vote that Congress is going to take.\u201d\nRep. Diane Black: \u201cWe\u2019ve been preparing for a long time for this day. . . . We knew this was our year to finally make tax reform a reality.\u201d\nRep. Kristi Noem: \u201cWe have to make sure that our farmers, and our ranchers, and our small businesses can thrive under this new tax code.\u201d\nRep. Rob Bishop: \u201cIt will produce increases in energy, at the same time, it will help cut taxes for average, middle-income American families. That\u2019s what we\u2019re trying to do.\u201d\nRep. Don Young: \u201c[We need the] opportunity to advance [our economy] so we can have the real jobs, not the government jobs. . . . This bill does that.\u201d\nRep. Fred Upton: \u201cI\u2019ve personally heard countless stories from folks across Michigan impacted by a tax code that\u2019s outdated, unwieldy, and too often rewards those at the very top at the cost of regular folks.\u201d\nRep. John Shimkus: \u201cI\u2019m hoping that I can finally start sending [postcards]\u00a0. . .\u00a0to my constituents . . .\u00a0for them to file their tax returns on.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/speaker-ryan-talks-tax-reform-cr-chip-weekly-presser", "Speaker Ryan Talks Tax Reform, CR, CHIP at Weekly Presser", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Summary: Today at his weekly press conference, Speaker Ryan repeated President Trump\u2019s announcement that, if passed by the end of the year, Americans will see benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act as early as February of next year. He also discussed ongoing appropriations talks and extending children\u2019s health insurance funding\u2014something the House has already done.\nOpening Statement:\nTax Cuts and Jobs Act\n\u201cThe Tax Cuts and Jobs Act\u2014you know what? It\u2019s about making jobs grow in this economy. It\u2019s about middle-class incomes going higher. This is about giving people the ability to make ends meet and to plan for the future. I\u2019m so excited that we\u2019re on the cusp of this great accomplishment. And if Congress acts by Christmas, people are going to see gains very soon.\n\u201cAs the president announced yesterday, if tax reform passes, taxpayers will see more money in their paychecks beginning in February. Withholding tables will reflect that. The IRS is already taking steps to prepare new withholding tables for 2018 based upon this legislation.\n\u201cThis tax cut will mean less of a paycheck going to Washington and more to the hardworking person who earned it. Again, that is the whole purpose of this: bigger paychecks for the people working hard to provide for their families. This is real relief, in addition of course that this relief gives people a simpler system and a fairer tax code. That is what this accomplishes.\u00a0\u00a0\nContinuing Resolution\n\u201cSecond, the Appropriations Committee has introduced a continuing resolution that addresses critical national priorities. As you know, the people\u2019s House here passed all 12 government appropriation bills on time and ahead of the fiscal year deadline. It remains our goal to see all 12 become law.\n\u201cFor now, at a time when we face threats around the globe, we believe it\u2019s vitally important that we fund our national defense. We want to make sure that the resources are in place to continue the important work to rebuild our military. As you all know, this is one of our high priorities this term is to rebuild our military. This bill helps do that.\nChildren\u2019s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)\n\u201cWe\u2019re also acting to extend the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program. You may recall last month\u2014I think it was November the third\u2014the House passed a fully-funded extension to protect the nine million children covered under CHIP. That bill is H.R. 3922, the Championing Healthy Kids Act.\n\u201cUnfortunately, an overwhelming majority of House Democrats voted against that extension of CHIP funding. Care for children in need should always, always go beyond party lines. So I certainly hope both parties will come together to make sure that we extend CHIP funding right now.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/win-american-energy", "A Win for American Energy", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "One of the major conservative victories of the finalTax Cuts and Jobs Act would open up part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) for exploration and development. This is non-wilderness federal land in Alaska that is known to be rich in energyspecifically oil.\nWhat does this mean for the American people?\nRevenue\nOil drilling on this piece of federal land means more money for the federal treasury, thanks to the royalty payments the government would receive based off the barrels of oil drilled and sold. How much? Almost $1 billion in 10 years and it wont stop there. Thats the main reason its part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This money helps pay for the tax cut the hardworking American people need, deserve, and will receive come February.\nJobs\nThe benefits of energy development extend far beyond raising revenue. Energy development creates good-paying jobs. Where? In Alaska, of course, where ANWR is located, but also along the entire energy supply chain. For example, pipes and equipment must be built. Truckers must be hired to drive equipment. That means good jobs for Americans across the country. This also means a major economic boost for our economy.\nSecurity\nEnergy development also enhances our nations energy security. The more leverage we have with our energy assets, the stronger seat we have at the international table. More specifically, the more oil we develop here at home, the less we have torely on OPEC, Russia, and other energy-rich foreign nations, some of whom are hostile to the United States. Because, no matter what happens on the world stage, it means our nation is developing its own rich natural resources to help American consumers have the most affordable energy possible.\nThere are many, many benefits to the American people in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, including a simpler, fairer tax code, bigger paychecks forhardworkingfamilies, and a more competitive environment for business. Now, we can add the benefits from opening up ANWR to the list.\nPlain and simple: This is another major victory for the American people.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/press-release/statement-net-neutrality-regulation", "Statement on Net Neutrality Regulation", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement following Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai\u2019s actions to undo net neutrality regulations:\n\u201cDespite its unassuming name, the Obama administration\u2019s net neutrality regulation threatens the free and open internet that has done so much to advance modern society. The Trump administration\u2019s action to roll back this egregious government overreach into the most innovative space will benefit all users of the internet. As Chairman Pai outlined today, the way to protect consumers is to put the Federal Trade Commission back on the beat to crack down on those who would abuse open access. This new plan of action will open new avenues for telemedicine, distance learning, and future innovations.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gallagher.house.gov/media/press-releases/gallagher-takes-action-protect-higher-ed-access-financial-assistance", "Gallagher Takes Action to Protect Higher Ed Access & Financial Assistance", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Mike Gallagher", "G000579", "gallagher.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Mike Gallagher sent a letter to House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch urging them to retain two higher education provisions in the final version of the tax bill. Both provisions are vital to addressing access to higher education and confronting the country\u2019s growing student debt crisis. Rep. Gallagher said: \u201cCreating a simpler, fairer tax system that benefits middle-income families in Northeast Wisconsin is one of my top priorities\u2014this includes making sure that we do not punish Wisconsin students for pursuing higher education. I urge my colleagues in the conference committee to finalize a tax bill that includes these two provisions, so that everyone\u2014business owners, families and students alike\u2014are provided with the greatest opportunity to succeed.\u201d Below is an excerpt from the letter: \u201cFirst, we request that you maintain Section 117(d) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), which enables taxpayers to exclude qualified tuition reductions from income. If repealed, this would raise the barrier of entry to college for many individuals. Colleges and universities throughout our districts provide employees \u2013 as well as their spouses and dependents \u2013 and graduate students with tuition reductions. If this section is not maintained, an unnecessary burden will be placed on taxpayers whose only ability to attend college or university is through receipt of qualified tuition reductions. We appreciated Chairman Brady\u2019s commitment to address this issue during a colloquy on the House floor, and look forward to working with you to preserve this important provision. Second, we urge you to maintain Section 127 of the IRC, which incentivizes employees to accept tax-free qualified educational assistance from employers as a means to further the employees\u2019 education and obtain skills to thrive in the workforce.\u00a0 Furthermore, this benefit should be expanded to include employees who have already accumulated student loan debt, as proposed in H.R. 795, the Employer Participation in Student Loan Assistance Act. Seven in ten college seniors graduate with student loan debt \u2013 which now represents the second highest form of consumer debt. This debt harms our economy because it prevents many young adults from buying a house, purchasing a car, or saving for retirement.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kind.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kind-introduces-bipartisan-bill-assist-small-businesses-offering", "Rep. Kind Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Assist Small Businesses in Offering Retirement Plans to Employees", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Ron Kind", "K000188", "kind.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Kind introduced the bipartisan Small Businesses Add Value for Employees (SAVE) Act of 2017, which will encourage more small businesses to offer retirement savings plans to their employees.\n\u201cA comfortable retirement is something everyone seeks to achieve \u2013 whether they work for a big business or a small business. Unfortunately, many small businesses don\u2019t offer retirement savings plans to employees because it can be complicated and costly. By taking steps to make it easier for Wisconsin small businesses to offer their employees a retirement plan we level the playing field and set workers and businesses up for future success,\u201d said Rep. Kind.\nThe bill introduced by Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) and Dave Reichert (R-Wash.) removes the \u201ccommon bond\u201d requirement, enabling small businesses to pool together, regardless of industry, to offer retirement plans to their employees.\u00a0 Rep. Kind has been active on this issue since 2008.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/poll-bipartisan-majorities-support-restrictions-on-lobbying-by-former-government-officials", "Poll: Bipartisan majorities support restrictions on lobbying by former government officials", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Augusta Free Press\r\nOverwhelming bipartisan majorities support proposed legislation that calls for extending the period that former government officials must wait before they can lobby the government and prohibiting former executive branch officials from ever lobbying on behalf of foreign governments.\r\nSimilarly large majorities favor ending the support the government currently provides for former U.S. presidents.\r\nThe\u00a0survey\u00a0of 2,482 registered voter was conducted by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland, and released Tuesday by the non-partisan organization, Voice of the People. To ensure that respondents understood the issue, they were given a short briefing on the proposal and asked to evaluate arguments for and against.\r\nThe content was reviewed by congressional proponents and opponents of the legislation to ensure that the briefing was accurate and balanced and that the arguments presented were the strongest ones being made.\r\nCurrently, former Members of Congress are prohibited from lobbying Congress for two years after leaving office. Proposed legislation H.R. 383 by Rep. Posey [R-FL-8], H.R. 796 by Rep. DeSantis [R-FL-6], H.R. 1951 by Rep. O\u2019Halleran [D-AZ-1] and H.R. 346 by Rep. Trott [R-MI-11] calls for extending this period to five years.\u00a0 In the survey, 77 percent approved of such an extension, including 80% of Republicans and 73% of Democrats.\r\nExtending the waiting period for senior congressional staffers from the current one year to two years\u2014as called for in H.R. 383 by Rep. Posey [R-FL-8]\u2014was approved by 77%, including 79% of Republicans and 74% of Democrats.\r\nCurrently, senior executive branch officials are prohibited from lobbying their former agency for 1-2 years depending on how senior they were. H.R. 1934 proposed by Rep. Gallagher [R-WI-8], S.522 by Sen. Tester [D-MT], H.R. 796 by Rep. De Santis [R-FL-6] and H.R. 484 by Rep. De Fazio [D-OR-4] call for extending this period to five years for all such officials.\u00a0 This proposal was supported by 75%, including 77% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats.\r\n\u201cThe American public seems to be eager to drain the swamp in Washington,\u201d commented Steven Kull, director of PPC.\r\nHowever, support did not go so far as to call for a lifetime ban on former members of Congress lobbying as called for by S.1189 by Sen. Bennet [D-CO] and H.R 4187 by Rep. Hollingsworth [R-IN-9]. Only 29% of respondents supported it, including 33% of Republicans and 24% of Democrats.\r\nCurrently, Americans can act as lobbyists for foreign governments, provided they register and report their activities to the U.S. government.\u00a0 Senior executive branch officials are only limited by the 1-2 year restriction for lobbying their former agency.\u00a0 Proposed bills H.R. 796 by Rep.DeSantis [R-FL-6] and H.R. 484 by Rep. De Fazio [D-OR-4] prohibit former senior executive branch officials from any lobbying on behalf of a foreign government for the rest of their life.\r\nThis proposal was favored by 75%, including 81% of Republicans and 70% of Democrats.\r\nThe Trump administration has required political appointees in its administration to pledge to not lobby their former agency for five years and to never lobby the US government for a foreign government after they leave office.\r\nThe sample is large enough to enable analysis of attitudes in very Republican and very Democratic districts (based on Cook PVI ratings of the district the respondents live in).\u00a0 In all cases, red districts were just slightly more supportive of the proposed restrictions.\r\nAnother set of questions presented a proposal to end the financial support for former U.S. presidents, as called for in H.R. 2298 sponsored by Rep. Sensenbrenner [R-WI-5].\u00a0 Currently, former U.S. presidents get financial support to cover the ongoing costs associated with the activities of being a former president, including office space, staffing and travel.\u00a0 In 2017, the government will spend approximately $4 million in support for the four former U.S. presidents.\r\nSeventy-two percent favored the proposal, including 85% of Republicans and 60% of Democrats.\u00a0 In very red districts 77% favored the proposal and in very blue districts 61% favored it.\r\nThe survey was conducted online from September 7- October 3, 2017 with a national probability-based sample of 2,482 registered voters, provided by Nielsen Scarborough from Nielsen Scarborough\u2019s sample of respondents, who were recruited by mail and telephone using a random sample of households. The margin of error was +/- 2.0%.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwin-demands-delay-of-net-neutrality-decision", "Citing Unknown and Potentially Damaging Impacts on Students and Schools, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues to Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.17\n\t\t\t Citing Unknown and Potentially Damaging Impacts on Students and Schools, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Joins Colleagues to Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSchools in low-income and rural areas relying on high-speed internet to help kids learn could be hit especially hard by FCC decision\r\nSenators: \u201cFrom early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience\u201d\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined 21 of her Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair, and open internet provides our nation\u2019s students in P-12 and higher education with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to dismantle existing net neutrality rules until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools\u2014specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how the decision it will impact education equities and the digital divide.\r\n\u201cBy overturning the Commission\u2019s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation\u2019s students and schools\u2014especially those in rural and low-income communities,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cWe urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s students and their ability to learn.\u201d\r\nAllowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers\u2019 and students\u2019 ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high-quality education. On December 14, the Commission is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai\u2019s proposal, which will roll back the FCC\u2019s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization, and will give more power to internet service providers (ISPs).\r\nThe letter was led by HELP Committee Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA), and was also signed by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).\u00a0\r\nFull text of letter below and available here.\r\nDecember 12, 2017\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Ajit Pai  Chairman  Federal Communications Commission  445 12th Street Southwest  Washington, DC 20554\r\nDear Chairman Pai:\r\nWe write today regarding your draft order\u2014the Restoring Internet Freedom Order (\u201cthe Draft Order\u201d) \u2014and its potential impacts on students, schools, and institutions of higher education. By overturning the Commission\u2019s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation\u2019s students and schools\u2014especially those in rural and low-income communities. We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s students and their ability to learn.\r\nIn the past four years, P-12 schools have made enormous strides in improving access to high-speed connectivity for all students. In 2013, 40 million students were in schools not meeting the 100 kbps per student threshold. By 2017, only 6.5 million students were in schools not meeting this goal\u2014narrowing this gap by 84 percent.[1] From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience.\r\nThe Draft Order runs counter to our national goal of affordable, high-speed internet for all students. By rolling back the FCC\u2019s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization, the Draft Order could lead to a tiered and compartmentalized internet, and whose characteristic openness is limited to those students, schools, and institutions who can afford it. Beyond that, the Draft Order threatens to impede innovation that has taken place within the educational sphere, including when it comes to access to high-quality online coursework.\r\nOur nation\u2019s P-12 education system increasingly relies on an open internet to improve equity and access to high-quality content and instruction. Teachers depend on the internet to collaborate with colleagues and to access educational materials from around the globe. Entrepreneurs and educators alike have been able to develop high-quality educational technologies that support state standards and equip schools and teachers to personalize instruction. These technologies, which include educational apps and online coursework, help students learn valuable research and internet safety skills, and expand access to a high-quality education for students with disabilities and English learners. By allowing ISPs to limit access and increase costs, the Draft Order could threaten educational equity and exacerbate the digital divide.\u00a0\r\nRural schools could be particularly harmed by the potential effects of the Draft Order. One recent analysis shows that the 77 percent of the schools that lack high-speed fiber connections are in rural communities.[2] Despite the Draft Order\u2019s claim that the Commission\u2019s current rules have stifled investment in internet infrastructure and rural communities, independent studies have found that such investments by ISPs have largely remained stable[3] and in some cases have increased in underserved areas.[4] The Draft Order would neither protect fiscally-strapped schools and school districts from aggressive ISP pricing practices, nor would it guarantee any additional investment in underserved areas.\r\nInstitutions of higher education rely on an open internet to carry out both their educational and research missions. For instance, online coursework has grown significantly over the past decade: as of the fall of 2015, more than 6 million students enrolled in at least one online course, representing about 30 percent of enrollments, compared to less than 10 percent in the fall of 2002.[5] Should the Draft Order be adopted, video lectures and online learning resources that are essential to institutions of higher education may be rendered unavailable by ISPs that decide to block them or otherwise privilege a competing resource. Additionally, basic research, which today more than ever relies upon frequent exchange of massive data sets online, could be severely impacted by a tiered and tolled internet. The Association of Research Libraries has stated that \u201cif our institutions had to pay a fee in order to access these connections or download these digital files, it wouldn't happen.\u201d[6] Resource-constrained public institutions of higher education, the biggest users of online coursework, which remain funded nearly $9 billion below their per-student levels before the Great Recession, would particularly feel these constraints.[7]\r\nThe Draft Order may also disproportionately impact students whose only adequate connection to the internet is the one inside their classroom. Even in 2017, far too many students lack access to a reliable, high-speed internet connection outside their classrooms\u2014at home or off-campus. According to a 2015 Pew Research Center analysis, approximately 5 million households with school-age children did not have high-speed internet at home.[8] This analysis found that households with annual incomes under $50,000 were more than three times as likely to lack a high-speed connection than those with incomes over $50,000; nearly 40 percent of households with annual incomes under $25,000\u2014165 percent of full-time federal minimum wage[9]\u2014did not have a high-speed connection.[10] Coupled with the Commission\u2019s recent modifications to the Lifeline program and proposed changes to the critical Universal Service Fund\u2019s Schools and Libraries Program (\u201cE-Rate\u201d) program, implementation of the Draft Order could further deepen the \u201cdigital divide,\u201d effectively limiting or outright denying internet access to the students who need it most.\r\nIn summary, we are deeply concerned about the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s education system. Subsequently, we ask that you delay your planned vote to roll back net neutrality and forever change the landscape of the internet until you can satisfactorily answer the following questions:\r\n \r\nThe Draft Order fails to make a single mention of \u2018student\u2019 or \u2018students\u2019 in its 210 pages; to what extent did the Commission contemplate the Draft Order\u2019s impact on students and the programs, schools, and institutions of higher education that they attend?\r\n \r\n \r\nWhat tangible and enforceable guarantees does the Draft Order provide for schools and institutions of higher education in rural areas, which face substantial barriers to accessing a high-speed internet connection?\r\n\r\nWhat evidence does the Commission have that the Draft Order will provide superior connectivity over the regulatory regime currently in place?\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nHow will the Draft Order affect the E-Rate program, including the progress made in such program since the 2014 modernization order?\r\n \r\n \r\nParagraph 256 of the Draft Order \u201creject[s] the contrary argument ISPs will engage in \u2018virtual redlining\u2019 because, as discussed, paid prioritization is likely to lead to increased network investment and lower costs to end users, particularly benefitting those on the wrong side of the digital divide.\u201d[11]\r\n\r\nWhat steps will the Commission take to ensure that ISPs do not engage in such behavior and that issues associated with the \u201cdigital divide\u201d and the \u201chomework gap\u201d are not being actively exacerbated by the regulatory framework envisioned by the Draft Order?\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nWe thank you for your consideration of these pressing issues. We look forward to your swift and detailed response.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-baldwins-maritime-legislation-becomes-law", "U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin’s Bipartisan Legislation Supporting Maritime Industry Becomes Law", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.17\n\t\t\t U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin\u2019s Bipartisan Legislation Supporting Maritime Industry Becomes Law \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 Domestic Maritime Centers of Excellence Act addresses the critical need for trained workers in the maritime industry\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin\u2019s Domestic Maritime Centers of Excellence Act was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. This bipartisan legislation helps address the critical need for trained workers in the maritime industry.\r\n\u201cIt is an honor to represent a state with a long and proud maritime manufacturing tradition,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Baldwin. \u201cI am proud to see this bipartisan legislation signed into law, in order to help ensure the future of our maritime workforce.\u201d\r\nThe Domestic Maritime Centers of Excellence Act authorizes the Maritime Administration (MARAD) to designate community and technical colleges with maritime training program as centers of excellence and allow the Administration to provide technical assistance and other support to these institutions as they train the domestic maritime workforce.\r\n\u201cThe legislation reinforces how important the marine manufacturing talent and skills of the Great Lakes Region are to the nation,\u201d said Ann Franz, director of the North Coast Marine Manufacturing Alliance (NCMMA). \u00a0\u201cAt the heart of the marine industry, there is a highly skilled workforce with an unwavering passion. We see this as an opportunity to showcase world class marine manufacturing in northeast Wisconsin and grow the shipbuilding and maritime careers in our area.\u201d\r\n\u201cPassage of the Maritime Centers of Excellence legislation empowers Northeast Wisconsin Technical College to remain in the forefront of maritime and marine education and training,\u201d said NWTC President Dr. Jeff Rafn. \u201cThe College will collaborate with other Centers of Excellence throughout the country to prepare workers for the maritime and marine manufacturing industry. Northeast Wisconsin is a premier shipbuilding center on the Great Lakes. Designating a Maritime Center of Excellence at NWTC will improve the opportunities for the Great Lakes marine manufacturing industry to innovate and grow. We are thankful for the support of our congressional delegation, who clearly understand the critical role technical and community colleges including NWTC play in sustaining and growing the maritime and marine workforce.\u201d\r\nThe bipartisan legislation is supported by the North Coast Marine Manufacturing Alliance and the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) and was cosponsored by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Marco Rubio (R-FL), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR).\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Press Release", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2E728ECB-A62A-46F6-8847-A2C5D1B2EB1A", "Johnson Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Empower Student Borrowers", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Ron Johnson", "J000293", "www.ronjohnson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced the bipartisan Empowering Student Borrowers Act to help students understand the financial implications of student loans and educational debt. The legislation would require colleges and universities to send a letter to students every year detailing each student\u2019s total loan debt, projected monthly repayment amounts, and the estimated interest rate for each loan. The bill would also require the Department of Education to develop best practices for colleges and universities on useful methods to teach financial literacy skills and provide information to assist students when making financial decisions related to student borrowing.\r\n\u201cStudents borrowing to pay for college should be fully aware of the financial obligations they are taking on,\u201d Sen. Johnson said. \u201cMaking student loan information more transparent is an important step in the right direction toward helping students make responsible borrowing decisions.\u201d\r\n\u201cWe know that having better informed students, makes for more responsible borrowers,\u201d Derek Kindle, director of the Office of Student Financial Aid at UW-Madison, said. \u201cAnnual information to students on their borrowing, repayment and loan limits is always important. We appreciate the commitment from lawmakers, like our own Sen. Johnson, to continue this conversation and support timely and accurate student information.\u201d\r\nIndiana and Wisconsin currently have state laws requiring colleges and universities to send these annual letters to their students. Indiana University started the practice in 2012 and found that students significantly changed how much they borrowed after becoming more aware of their debt. According to Indiana University, from the 2011-12 academic year to 2016-17, IU students had a $112.8 million (17%) decrease in student loans. The Wisconsin state law just went into effect for the 2017-18 academic year.\r\nText of the bill can be found here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/american-manufacturers-see-economic-growth-tax-reform", "American Manufacturers See Economic Growth from Tax Reform", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Manufacturing is central to our economy. More than 12 million Americans, or 8.5 percent of our workforce, are employed by manufacturers. And every $1 in manufacturing spending adds nearly $2 to our economy.\nThis is another reason why enacting real, pro-growth tax reform is so important.\nA new survey out this week from the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) underscores the impact tax reform will have on jobs, wages, and economic growth:\n\u201cOptimism has risen to unprecedented heights, driven by [manufacturers\u2019] belief that the progress the White House and Congress have made on enacting bold, comprehensive tax reform shows that leaders in Washington are finally embracing policies to help manufacturers in the United States successfully compete in the global marketplace.\u201d\nThe survey found that 94.6 percent of manufacturers have a positive economic outlook, and more than 75 percent support the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act due to the benefits to American competitiveness. Moreover, nearly half of manufacturers say they will give their employees a raise if tax reform is enacted. Higher wages, estimated to rise upwards of $4,000 for average American households, means a higher standard of living for you and your family.\nTook a look at the chart below to see for yourself, read the full survey here, and learn more about our plan to overhaul our broken tax code at speaker.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/bigger-paychecks-2018-speaker-ryan-fox-news", "Bigger Paychecks in 2018: Speaker Ryan on Fox News", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In 2018, American workers will see an immediate increase in their paychecks because the tax code is going to be taking less money out of their paychecks in the first place. pic.twitter.com/NviTDmvz6b\n\t\u2014 Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) December 13, 2017 \n\u00a0\nThis afternoon, as the\u00a0Tax Cuts and Jobs Act\u00a0(H.R. 1) House-Senate Conference holds an open meeting, Speaker Ryan appeared on Fox News\u2019 The Daily Briefing with Dana Perino. He talked about how, if Congress passes tax reform, Americans will see bigger paychecks beginning in February. Watch the full interview here and check out excerpts below.\nSpeaker Ryan: \u201cDana, what we expect to happen is withholding tables will change, meaning that workers in 2018 will see more money in their paychecks because the tax code is going to be taking less money out of their paychecks in the first place. So withholding will change. That is why we are working hand in glove with the administration to make sure that is reflected\u2014so people aren't overpaying their taxes in 2018. We get the withholding to change to reflect this tax cut so that people will actually see an immediate increase in their paychecks and businesses will have an immediate incentive to work, save, and invest and hire more people. By having expensing kick in immediately, that encourages businesses to invest in their people, invest in their factories, invest in their equipment. That happens right away as well. So we really do expect that this is going to help us get to that 3 percent economy [growth] that we desperately want, that higher take home pay, bigger paychecks, and a more streamlined simplified system.\u201d\nSpeaker Ryan: \u201cWe launched the framework of this tax reform at the beginning of this process. After listening to members from both [the] House and the Senate, working with the administration, and then we passed a bill out of the House, passed the bill out of the Senate. Very similar bills. So, getting these things to sync up wasn't all that difficult because they\u2019re so close to begin with. So that's where we are and we\u2019re very excited. Our goal was get it done by Christmas all along. Get it done by Christmas, so we start the New Year with a new tax code so we can get this economy growing and give families relief. That\u2019s where we are and really happy about that.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/coming-february-bigger-paychecks", "COMING FEBRUARY: Bigger Paychecks", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Big news. This afternoon, in remarks at the White House, the president announced that people will start seeing more money in their paychecks beginning this February if Congress is able to pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by the end of the year. This news, by way of the IRS, means that less money be will withheld for taxes resulting in bigger paychecks. And bigger paychecks is what the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is all about.\u00a0\nHere\u2019s how it works: Each year, the IRS produces what it calls \"withholding tables\" that inform employers how much tax to take out of people\u2019s paychecks. And the IRS has confirmed to the president that it will be ready to adjust those tables by February. Because the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a big tax cut for working people, this change will mean less of a paycheck will go to Washington and more will go to the hardworking person who earned it. This is real tax relief for real people\u2014and it\u2019s coming very soon.\u00a0\nThis great news is just one reason why the House and Senate are hard at work to produce a final version of the bill that can be sent to the president before the new year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/increased-standard-deduction-child-tax-credit", "The Increased Standard Deduction + Child Tax Credit", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Since the House-Senate conference committee was formed\u00a0last week, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act conferees\u00a0have been working to reconcile the House and Senate bills to develop a final package of historic tax reform. And today, the conference committee is holding a meeting on the\u00a0insert space\u00a0legislation. Two of the most important provisions in both the House and Senate versions of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are the increased standard deduction and the increased child tax credit.\nWhat do these provisions mean? More money for hardworking American families.\nStandard Deduction\nThe standard deduction is money that is not taxed by the federal government at all\u2014also known as the \u201czero bracket.\u201d Under current law, the standard deduction for individuals is $6,350 and the standard deduction for joint filers is $12,700.\nThe House plan nearly\u00a0doubles the standard deduction for individuals and families\u2014to $24,000 for joint filers\u2014significantly growing people's \"zero bracket.\" The Senate plan takes the same approach.\nChild Tax Credit\nIt\u2019s safe to say that having kids costs money. Diapers, clothes, education . . . we don\u2019t need to go into it. A family of five\u2014two parents and three kids\u2014 living off an $80,000 income is significantly less wealthy than a couple without children living off an $80,000 income. And our tax code should reflect that disparity more.\nThat\u2019s why the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act increases the child tax credit. It\u2019s pretty simple: Parents doing the hard, costly work of raising kids should get some extra relief come April 15. The House plan increases the child tax credit by $600 per child, and adds a new family credit of $300 for each parent and non-child dependent. The Senate plan also increases the child tax credit.\nNo matter where the conference committee lands on the exact numbers in the final text, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will be significantly increasing both the standard deduction and the child tax credit. These two provisions are the heart of the tax cut\u00a0for middle-income families. Together, they spell relief for people and families at all income levels. The Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) Chief reinforced this point as well, \"There is a\u00a0tax benefit to all income categories\u00a0as we measure them.\"\nWatch the conference meeting live at 2 p.m.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/simpler-taxes-simpler-forms", "Simpler Taxes on Simpler Forms", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Filing your taxes in the future: So simple, a caveman could do it. Well, not really\u2014cavemen no longer exist and probably wouldn\u2019t care to do your taxes if they did, but you get the idea. With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, simplicity is key.\nAs Speaker Ryan recently said\u00a0about the House-passed version of the bill, \u201cWith this plan, 90 percent of Americans will be able to use the standard deduction. You can fit your taxes . . . literally on a postcard.\u201d\nThat\u2019s right. By streamlining the tax code and nearly doubling the standard deduction, average Americans will save time and money when filing their taxes. No more expensive tax preparation. No more hours lost to lengthy forms and confusing directions. For most Americans, tax season will mean filing taxes on a form the size of a postcard.\nAmericans deserve a tax code that works for them, not the other way around. And that\u2019s the crux of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. You can learn more by visiting fairandsimple.gop, or by tuning in live to the conference meeting taking place in the Capitol right now.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/tax-cut-people-and-families-every-income-level", "A Tax Cut for People and Families At Every Income Level", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, the House-Senate conference committee will hold a public meeting on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. As we get close to the finish line, the need to pass this legislation is more urgent than ever.\nPeople and families are struggling. Many are living paycheck-to-paycheck. In any case, too much of Americans\u2019 hard-earned money is spent paying federal taxes. But if the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act becomes law, people will finally feel some relief.\nHow? Because this is a tax cut for the average family at every income level. This is a message worth repeating. It\u2019s rare that one piece of legislation\u2014the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act\u2014can impact so many people in such a positive way.\nHow does it work? This legislation cuts marginal tax rates at every income level and nearly doubles both the standard deduction and the Child Tax Credit. That means the effective rate\u2014the rate you pay the government\u2014will drop for normal families at all income levels.\nAnd the numbers back it up. The nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation chief said, \u201cIn 2019, our projections . . . would say that\u00a0there is a tax benefit to all income categories as we measure them.\u201d\u00a0\nThe nonpartisan Tax Foundation agreed. \u201cOur results indicate a reduction in tax liability for every scenario we modeled.\u201d\nAs Speaker Ryan said yesterday, \u201cThis is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Not just to fix the broken tax code, not just to jumpstart the economy, but to truly restore hope, confidence, and opportunity in America. That\u2019s why we\u2019re here. That\u2019s what this is about.\u201d\nThat hope, confidence, and opportunity? That\u2019s what people will start to feel when they can keep more of their hard-earned money once the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is the law of the land.\nWatch the meeting live at 2 p.m. and learn more at speaker.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/tax-cut-radio-tour-continues-wi-fl-and-ca", "Tax Cut Radio Tour Continues: WI, FL, and CA", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This morning, Speaker Ryan joined radio shows in Wisconsin, Florida, and California to discuss how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will improve people\u2019s lives across the country. Listen and check out the excerpts below.\nMilwaukee, WI \u2013 1130 WISN\nSpeaker Ryan: \u201cWe\u2019re on track for bringing it through the system next week to get it done by Christmas, which was our goal and pledge all along so that we start the New Year, with a new tax system, with a big middle class tax cut and a tax cut for businesses to make us globally competitive to get faster economic growth and more jobs.\u201d\nSpeaker Ryan on how this will help families taking the bigger standard deduction: \u201cIn my district, the average household is going to get a $2,000 tax cut. I just looked at [Rep.] Sensenbrenner\u2019s district, the average household there is going to get a $2,700 tax cut. I\u2019m looking at [Rep.] Grothman\u2019s district here, the average median family of four in his district is going to get a $2,100 tax cut.\u201d\n\tSouth Florida \u2013 610 WIOD\nSpeaker Ryan: \u201cThis week we\u2019re reconciling the differences between the House and Senate, the Conference Committee, they are on track for doing that. So that next week we bring the bill to the floor, to the Senate and to the House, and get it done before Christmas. That\u2019s the plan we\u2019ve had and that\u2019s the timeline we\u2019re on. . . .This is the biggest rewrite of our tax code since Reagan \u201986 and I would say it\u2019s far more ambitious, far more sweeping, and far more pro-growth than the Reagan \u201986 reforms.\u201d\nSacramento, CA \u2013 650 KSTE\nSpeaker Ryan: \u201cIn [California\u2019s] 4th district, if people take the bigger standard deduction, which means 90 percent of Americans can fill out their taxes on a postcard, that average median household in that district gets about a $3,800 tax cut. Up in Rep. Denham\u2019s district, the 10th district, people who take that big standard deduction, that average family of four in that district gets a $1,600 tax cut. The point we\u2019re trying to make here is that we\u2019re trying to clean stuff out of the tax code, lower taxes across the board, dramatically increase the Child Tax Credit, double the standard deduction and then lower rates on businesses so they can be more globally competitive.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/tax-reform-means-1182-tax-cut-typical-american-households", "Tax Reform Means an $1,182 Tax Cut for Typical American Households", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Let\u2019s be honest. By this point, you are probably a little worn out by the tax reform debate. The special interests clawing to keep this or that provision. The far left spewing doomsday rhetoric. The stories about how the bill is dead one day and back on track the next. We get it\u2014it can be exhausting.\nBut if there\u2019s one thing you remember entering the home stretch of the debate it\u2019s this: Typical American households will receive an $1,182 tax cut.\nBy lowering rates, nearly\u00a0doubling the standard deduction, and increasing the Child Tax Credit, you get to keep more of your hard-earned paycheck. That means more money in your pocket to save and invest in your future.\nFor many families just struggling to get by, that extra $1,182 will go a long way. In fact, more than half of Americans say that a $500 surprise would put them in debt.\nFrom the beginning, the whole purpose of our plan has been to cut taxes for hardworking Americans who have been squeezed under the current system. And that\u2019s why the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will provide much-needed relief to people living paycheck-to-paycheck who need it the most.\n\u00a0\nTo learn more, visit speaker.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/tax-reform-means-higher-wages-hardworking-americans", "Tax Reform Means Higher Wages for Hardworking Americans", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver, yes, tax cuts and jobs for families across the country. But it also means higher wages for hardworking Americans.\nNot only will typical American households benefit from an $1,182 tax cut under our plan, but according to countless studies, average wages will increase by upwards of $4,000.\nYou read that correctly: $4,000. That\u2019s going to make Americans much more excited come payday, and a lot less stressed come tax day.\nWorkers will see this raise thanks to our plan to slash the corporate tax rate and allow repatriation, which will help bring jobs and profits back home and level the playing field for our businesses.\nIn fact, according to a new survey, nearly half of American manufacturers\u00a0would increase wages if tax reform is enacted. That is exactly why the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is so important: It will help you earn more, and keep more of what you earn.\nTo learn more, visit speaker.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/walk-down-memory-lane", "A Walk Down Memory Lane", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In the words of Speaker Ryan: \u201cIt\u2019s high time the hardworking people of this country get a break.\u201d Yes, tax reform is about creating jobs and spurring economic growth\u2014making American companies competitive on the global stage. But, more importantly, tax reform is also about fairer taxes and bigger paychecks. Putting the American people above Washington special interests. While the amounts may vary, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the average American at every income level will get a tax cut.\nWe met Cindy, a single mom making $30,000 per year as an assistant manager at a restaurant who hopes to get beyond living paycheck-to-paycheck and start saving for the future.\nThen there were Ted and Casey, newlyweds and first-time homeowners, making a combined $115,000 per year in a high-tax state. They hope to achieve financial security before starting a family.\nWe also met George, a firefighter in his mid-twenties, who is living comfortably in his small town with a salary of $48,000 per year. He\u2019s thinking ahead, wanting to start putting money away for his future family.\nAnd finally, there was the Smith family\u2014Steve, Melinda, and their two kids\u2014living on a tight budget with a combined yearly income of $59,000. Steve and Melinda want to get to a place where they do not have to struggle with everyday expenses.\nWith the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, all of these hardworking Americans will get relief from our outdated and overcomplicated tax code. Whether it\u2019s the result of a nearly doubled standard deduction, an increased Child Tax Credit, the Family Flexibility Credit, simply lower tax rates, or a combination of any of these factors, one thing is clear: Average Americans at every income level will see a tax cut come next year. Why? Because individuals deserve to decide what to do with their hard-earned paychecks.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.speaker.gov/general/watch-today-s-conference-meeting-tax-cuts-and-jobs-act", "Watch Today\u2019s Conference Meeting on the 'Tax Cuts and Jobs Act'", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Paul Ryan", "R000570", "www.speaker.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This is it\u2014the moment we\u2019ve been waiting for. This afternoon, the open House-Senate conference meeting on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will begin\u2014and it will be live-streamed for all the world to see.\nMore jobs. Fairer taxes. Bigger paychecks. That\u2019s what\u2019s driving this conversation. The current tax code is too long, too complicated, and too outdated. But not for much longer. Today, as conferees from the House and Senate continue negotiations, we\u2019re one step closer to real tax relief for the American people. The goal is to take the best ideas from two versions of the bill.\u00a0\nIt all starts at 2 p.m. ET. Join the fun on speaker.gov/live and see how House and Senate Republicans are fighting for hardworking Americans.\nBONUS: If the open conference meeting isn\u2019t enough to satiate your tax reform palate, tune in to Speaker Ryan\u2019s Twitter live event at 11:30 a.m. ET, where he\u2019ll talk all things tax reform with conferee Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD). And, later in the afternoon, watch President Trump discuss the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act live from the White House at 3 p.m. ET.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://grothman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=489", "Grothman Resolution Condemning Global Persecution of Christians Passes House Unanimously", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "Glenn Grothman", "G000576", "grothman.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Glenn Grothman\u2019s (R-Glenbeulah) bipartisan resolution condemning the persecution of Christians around the globe passed the House unanimously today.\r\nH. Res. 407 condemns governments and religious extremist groups that target Christians and other religious minorities. Additionally, the resolution calls on discriminatory countries to cease their persecution of Christians and other religious minorities and urges the president and other world leaders to uphold the universal human right to religious freedom and condemn the global persecution of Christians.\r\nPrior to the passage of the resolution, Grothman spoke in support of it on the House floor.\r\nExcerpts of Grothman\u2019s remarks\r\n\u201cI rise in support of my resolution, H. Res. 407, condemning the persecution of Christians around the world.\r\n\u201cThe persecution of Christians is a global human rights problem Congress needs to address. According to Open Doors\u2019 2017 World Watch List, around the world, one out of 12 Christians is experiencing persecution for their faith.\r\n\u201cActs of persecution against Christians across the globe is in violation of international law, which is why Congress must act.\r\n\u201cSadly, in our own country, the United States, sometimes Christians can be forced to participate in ceremonies with which they don't agree. Hard to believe this is going on in the United States of America.\r\n\u201cH. Res. 407 will condemn the persecution of Christians around the world and calls for all discriminatory countries and extremist groups to cease their persecution of religious minorities and force leaders to uphold universal religious freedom.\r\n\u201cI urge my colleagues to support this resolution and yield back the remainder of my time.\u201d\r\nBackground\r\nChristians are persecuted in countries across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Americas by religious extremists and officials at all levels of government. According to Open Doors USA, an average of 214 churches and Christian properties are destroyed, 772 violent acts are committed against Christians and 322 Christians are killed because of their faith each month.\r\nExamples of persecution mentioned in the resolution include:\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The 51 Coptic Christians who were killed by ISIS in Libya in February and March of 2015; \r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Christian migrants from northern Africa who have been abducted, trafficked\u00a0 and forced to convert to Islam at the hands of ISIS while traveling through Libya; \r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The prohibition on practicing Christianity in North Korea. Christians who are caught practicing their religion are sent to forced labor camps;\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In China, members of Christian churches that are not registered with the government risk imprisonment and torture. Additionally, in the Zhejiang Province, more than 1500 churches have been removed as part of an anti-cross campaign;\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The 600 Christian churches in Pakistan that were attacked in 2016;\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The 44 Coptic Christians who were killed by ISIS bomb attacks in Egypt on Palm Sunday of this year;\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The decline in the Christian population of Iraq from approximately 1.4 million in 2003 to approximately 275,000 in 2016.\r\nGrothman\u2019s resolution falls within the United Nations\u2019 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and U.S. law outlined in the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.\r\nArticle 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes that \u201ceveryone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. This right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship, and observance.\u201d The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations in 1948.\r\nThe International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 found that religious persecution is not confined to a particular region or regime and reaffirmed the commitment of the united States that religious freedom, which is the freedom of thought and conscience and the right to practice theistic and non-theistic beliefs, is the right of every individual and should never be arbitrarily abridged by any government.\r\n###\r\nU.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman is serving his second term representing Wisconsin\u2019s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sensenbrenner.house.gov/2017/12/sensenbrenner-supports-bill-to-curb-internet-sex-trafficking", "Sensenbrenner Supports Bill to Curb Internet Sex Trafficking", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WI", "F. Sensenbrenner", "S000244", "sensenbrenner.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u2014During today\u2019s House Judiciary Committee mark up, Crime Subcommittee Chairman Jim Sensenbrenner (WI-05) offered his support for H.R.1865, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act of 2017. Sensenbrenner is a cosponsor of the bill.\r\n\u00a0\r\nHis remarks as reflected in the record can be found here:\r\n\u201cThe Internet has been one of the greatest innovations in history. It has brought tremendous economic and social benefits to humankind. We can now accomplish nearly any transactions with just a few clicks of a mouse from the comfort of our own homes. It is undeniable, that, for all of us, it has made life easier.\r\nUnfortunately, the Internet has also made life easier for criminals, who can use the anonymity of the Web to mask their illicit activities and avoid detection by law enforcement. This is especially true in the realm of sex trafficking \u2013 one of the most horrific, insidious crimes you could imagine. Thanks to a group of committed, passionate professionals and brave victims, the problem of sex trafficking on the Internet is now receiving the attention it merits.\r\nWe are all now well aware of the reprehensible and blatantly criminal conduct of the executives at Backpage.com. Because young victims have come forward to share their stories, we are aware of the harm caused by these types of websites, which are not only a venue for sex traffickers to sell young women, but also materially contribute to this illicit conduct.\r\nBackpage.com\u2019s conduct also shed light on websites that are using the Communications Decency Act to shield themselves from liability for their illegal activities, which is something Congress never intended.\r\nFor these reasons, I am pleased to be an cosponsor of H.R. 1865, the Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act, also known as FOSTA.\u00a0 As amended, this legislation will provide law enforcement additional tools to combat websites like Backpage. The bill creates a new federal statute criminalizing the use or operation of an interstate facility with the intent to promote or facilitate prostitution or sex trafficking.\u00a0\r\nThe bill specifically amends Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act to make sure that state and local prosecutors can enforce any state law if the conduct underlying the charge constitutes a violation of the new crime. In addition, the bill amends Section 230 to make clear that state and local prosecutors can enforce state sex trafficking laws insofar as those charges would also constitute a violation of federal sex trafficking law.\u00a0 Finally, FOSTA will provide new mechanisms for financially compensating victims.\u00a0 Receiving compensation can serve as an acknowledgement of victimhood and help victims on their road to recovery.\r\nI commend Ms. Wagner and Committee staff for their thoughtful approach to this issue.\u00a0 This legislation is the culmination of months of hard work and shows that we can take measures to prevent online sex trafficking without undermining the foundations of internet freedom.\u00a0 I urge my colleagues to support it.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/senator-tammy-baldwin-highlights-report-encouraging-transparency-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs", "Senator Tammy Baldwin Highlights Report Encouraging Transparency to Lower Prescription Drug Costs", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WI", "Tammy Baldwin", "B001230", "www.baldwin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 1876, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "WI", "p2": "2017"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 1306, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017&party=Republican", "selected": false}, {"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 570, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 1876, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=WI&year=2017", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "WI", "label": "WI", "count": 1876, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2017", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "2017", "label": "2017", "count": 1876, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2017-12-12,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ebaldwin~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fvideos~2Fwatch~2Fsenator-tammy-baldwin-highlights-report-encouraging-transparency-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=WI&year=2017&_next=2017-12-12%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ebaldwin~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fvideos~2Fwatch~2Fsenator-tammy-baldwin-highlights-report-encouraging-transparency-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 336.651642806828, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}