{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"Senate\", state = \"VA\" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402403", "Congressman Griffiths Weekly E-Newsletter 12.31.20", "2020-12-31", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The year 2020 was a difficult one, but as the year draws to a close, I want to highlight something about the year that went right.\r\nOperation Warp Speed accomplished what had been considered nearly impossible: the development, manufacture, and distribution of a safe and effective vaccine to combat COVID-19.\r\nPresident Trump announced Operation Warp Speed in May. His Administration recognized that meeting the challenge posed by the coronavirus pandemic would require the investment of Federal Government resources, partnership between the public, private, and scientific sectors, and cutting red tape that would impede delivery of a safe and effective vaccine.\r\nThis effort was supported by almost $10 billion in funding included in the CARES Act passed by Congress with my support.\r\nThe project focused on six vaccine candidates. Seven months after Operation Warp Speed was launched and less than one year after COVID-19 began spreading widely around the globe, two vaccine candidates were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use.\r\nOn December 11, the FDA approved for emergency use the first vaccine created by Pfizer. After clinical trials including over 43,000 participants, the vaccine was found to be 95 percent effective.\r\nA vaccine developed by Moderna was subsequently approved for emergency use on December 18. Thirty thousand people participated in its clinical trials, and its efficacy rate is 94.5 percent.\r\nThese vaccines are the fastest ever produced for a novel pathogen. In fact, the average development timeline for a vaccine is eight to twelve years. Operation Warp Speed reduced the time needed by maximizing the number of participants in Phase 3 trials and manufacturing vaccine doses while waiting for the FDA's emergency use authorization order.\r\nWhile bureaucratic hurdles were lowered, the vaccine development process did not skimp on safety.\r\nAs a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over health matters, I was briefed repeatedly throughout the process or involved in hearings featuring public health officials at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, and the FDA, as well as the vaccine manufacturers. I am confident that they maintained high safety standards as they pursued a vaccine.\r\nWhile the vaccines were under development, the Trump Administration planned ahead for their delivery and administration to Americans. It purchased millions of doses of the prospective vaccines and made agreements with pharmacies that would be able to vaccinate people.\r\nWhile enough vaccine doses will be manufactured to cover most of the population, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended the priorities for vaccination while supplies remain limited. It suggested health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities be first in line, followed by older adults and frontline essential workers, all groups with a higher susceptibility to the coronavirus than other parts of the population.\r\nThe vaccines are broadly safe, but caution is appropriate for people with allergic reactions and certain other conditions. The CDC recommends that you talk to your doctor if you have had a severe allergic reaction to other vaccines or injectable therapies to determine if a COVID vaccine is a safe decision for you. Further, if you have had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in a COVID vaccine, the CDC recommends not getting that vaccine.\r\nI also believe that vaccinations should not be mandatory. This would be true particularly for people who object to taking it due to their religious principles or as a matter of conscience. I also reject the idea of individuals being required to carry around a vaccination certificate, which is too close to the identification papers of highly restricted societies for my comfort.\r\nOperation Warp Speed is just one component of the Federal Government's efforts to combat the coronavirus. Other therapeutics and treatments have also been developed at a rapid pace and are also being deployed as the pandemic still inflicts widespread sickness.\r\nThe United States has long excelled at scientific innovation, but even among our country's long list of achievements, from the light bulb to the first manned landing on the Moon, Operation Warp Speed stands out  for its scale, speed, safety, and ultimately lives saved. Amid all the bad news of 2020, this accomplishment is one worth praising.\r\nIf you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website atwww.morgangriffith.house.gov. Also on my website is the latest material from my office, including information on votes recently taken on the floor of the House of Representatives.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402402", "Griffith Statement on CASH Act", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement regarding the CASH Act of 2020:\r\nYesterday, the President signed the more than $2.3 trillion Omnibus, which includedCOVID relief. After signing it, the President issued a statement calling on Congress to increase the amount of money going to individuals AND to cut bloated government spending.  \r\n\r\nToday, the Democrats in the House put forward a bill to increase the size of the individual checks, BUT did not put forward any of the President's cut suggestions OR cuts to spending that they preferred.  \r\n\r\nThis is a typical Democrat compromise. We will give you increased spending, but we will not give you the cuts requested.  \r\n\r\nAccordingly, I could not support this increased spending, at this time, without legitimate cuts as requested by the President.  \r\n\r\nHopefully with vaccines being distributed, our businesses and our economy will be back in operation soon. If not, we will have to examine additional relief in the new year.  \r\n\r\nBackground  \r\n\r\nCongressman Griffith supported the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations (HR 6074), the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (HR 6201), the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (HR 748), and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act (HR 266).  \r\n\r\nClick here for his statement on the Omnibus spending bill for Fiscal Year 2021.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-votes-to-override-trump-veto-of-defense-bill-raise-amount-of", "Scott Votes to Override Trump Veto of Defense Bill, Raise Amount of Stimulus Checks", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, the House of Representatives voted to override President Trump's veto of H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) voted to override President Trump's veto. \nFor 60 years, the NDAA has been passed with bipartisan and bicameral support. President Trump's veto of this legislation was harmful to our national security and showed a disregard for our military personnel and their families, said Congressman Scott. The FY 21 NDAA provides a well-deserved three percent pay increase for our servicemembers. It also includes several important provisions that will directly support shipbuilding and ship maintenance in Hampton Roads. The President was willing to throw away all that good work in the name of preserving names, symbols, displays, monuments, and other paraphernalia that commemorate the Confederate States of America or anyone that voluntarily served in rebellion against the United States.It is a deeply disappointing but fitting chapter at the end of Donald Trump's presidency. I was proud to see a bipartisan coalition of Members of Congress vote to override President Trump's veto. On December 8, the House passed the conference report to the NDAA bill by an overwhelming, bipartisan vote of335 to 78 a vote greater than the two-thirds vote required for a veto override. Similarly, on December 11, the Senate passed the NDAA conference report by a bipartisan vote of84 to 13 another vote greater than the two-thirds vote required to override a president's veto.\nThe House of Representatives also voted to pass H.R. 9051, the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020, which would raise recently enacted economic impact payments from $600 to $2,000 and fix the gap for adult dependents retroactively, allowing for an additional $2,000 for each dependent.\nPassage of the CASH Act is vital for working families across the country struggling due to this pandemic, stated Congressman Scott. The COVID relief bill recently passed by Congress and signed by the President was a down payment on what will be necessary to crush the virus and push our economy into recovery. I am pleased to see that President Trump is supportive of larger cash payments as Congressional Democrats have been advocating for many months. It is disappointing to see so many of our Republican colleagues vote against providing much-needed relief to workers and families during such a difficult time. I hope the President will urge the Republican Senate to follow the House's lead and pass this bill to increase relief for the American people.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-the-passing-of-george-banks", "Scott Statement on the Passing of George Banks", "2020-12-27", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "NEWPORT NEWS, VA  Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on the passing of former Norfolk NAACP branch president and community activist George Banks:\nGeorge Banks was affectionately and rightly known as the Mayor of Berkley'  a part of Norfolk that he helped transform for the better of the city and its citizens who reside there. George devoted his life to service to his community and successfully fought to eliminate the inequity and inequality of our nation's housing policies. His passing is a tremendous loss for Norfolk and the greater Hampton Roads community. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, many friends, and all those that live in a safer and better community thanks to George's decades of advocacy.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-the-passing-of-hampton-sheriff-bj-roberts", "Scott Statement on the Passing of Hampton Sheriff B.J. Roberts", "2020-12-26", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "NEWPORT NEWS, VA  Congressman Bobby Scott issued the following statement on the passing of Hampton, Virginia Sheriff B.J. Roberts:\nI was saddened to learn of the passing of Hampton Sheriff B.J. Roberts. Sheriff Roberts served our community for decades in law enforcement, first as a patrolman with the Newport News Police Department, then rising through the ranks of the Hampton University Campus Police to become the University's Director of Police and Public Safety, and for the last 28 years as Hampton's sheriff. His 1992 election as sheriff was trailblazing as he became the first African American constitutional officer elected in Hampton's history. He continued to break barriers when he was elected in 2010 to serve as the first African American president of the National Sheriff's Association. Sheriff Roberts was committed to making our criminal justice system fairer and improving police-community relations. His passing is a tremendous loss for Hampton and the entire Commonwealth. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, the deputies and staff of the Hampton Sheriff's Office, and all those positively impacted by his remarkable life.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-trump-veto-of-national-defense-bill", "Kaine Statement On Trump Veto Of National Defense Bill", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 23, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement On Trump Veto Of National Defense Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after President Trump vetoed the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed both the House and the Senate with strong bipartisan support:\r\nBy vetoing this bipartisan legislation, President Trump ekes out one final betrayal of our nation's military. The President's veto stands in the way of a pay raise for troops, veteran suicide prevention, and necessary investments in our national security. The NDAA has passed Congress 60 years in a row because we understand its dire importance to servicemembers, military families, and the nation. Congress will not allow the President's action to undo this critical bipartisan work.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-the-nomination-of-dr-miguel-cardona-for-secretary-of", "Scott Statement on the Nomination of Dr. Miguel Cardona for Secretary of Education", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCCommittee on Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03) released the following statement after President-elect Biden nominated Dr. Miguel Cardona to lead the Department of Education.\nI congratulate Dr. Miguel Cardona on his nomination to be the next Secretary of Education. Dr. Cardona has over two decades of experience serving in America's public schools first as an elementary school teacher and then as a school principal, assistant superintendent, and most recently as Connecticut's Commissioner of Education.\nThe pandemic has exacerbated the effects of chronic underinvestment in our public schools, and as COVID-19 cases surge across the country, students and educators continue to face unprecedented challenges. Existing achievement gaps are widening, crumbling school infrastructure threatens the safety of our nation's children, and a mass transition to remote learning is causing tremendous learning loss. What's more, budget cuts, along with revenue and job losses, mean severe reductions in services and programs that many vulnerable students need to complete their degrees and find fulfilling careers.\nI look forward to working with Dr. Cardona in our shared belief that high-quality, public education is invaluable to the success of individuals and our nation. I am fully confident in his ability to lead the Department in its mission of educational equity for all.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/sen-warner-on-president-trump-s-veto-of-the-national-defense-authorization-act", "Sen. Warner on President Trump's Veto of the National Defense Authorization Act", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after President Trump vetoed the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)overa provision requiring the military to rename bases named for Confederate militaryleadersand over the lack of language repealing Section 230.\r\nIt's unconscionable that the President would choose to throw a wrench into the passage of a bill as critical as our nation's annual defense bill.\r\nThe President's decision to veto this bipartisan legislation on his way out the door poses a serious threat to U.S. national security. It jeopardizes mission readinessand the well-being of our U.S. servicemembers and their families, aswell as military construction projects, investments in innovation and technology, and other critical defense priorities. It also threatens the economy in Virginia, which houses the Pentagon, major headquarters for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as Naval Station Norfolk  the largest naval base in the world.\r\nI look forward to overriding the President's fruitless and ridiculous attempt to undermine our national security over his shifting rationale for his decision to veto, including a provision to rename bases honoring Confederate military leaders  a provision that many in the President's own party have supported.\r\nThe FY21 NDAA, whichpassedthrough the Senate earlier this month, contains a number of Warner-led provisions, including ones tocombatillicit finance,prioritizeU.S. innovation and technology development in 5G and semiconductors,protectmilitary families,createa more diverse pentagon workforce,enablegreater SCIF flexibility, fund theprocurementof a second Virginia-class submarine, andexpandthe list of service-connected presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange exposure.\r\nSen. Warner is a cosponsor of theConfederate Monument Removal Act,which would remove statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. He has alsospoken publiclyabout the need to remove publicsymbolsincluding military post nameshonoring theConfederacy as part of broader efforts to advance racial justice.He hasspoken outabout the need to have a thoughtful conversation about Section 230 and the ways in which it has enabled platforms to turn a blind eye to misuse.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-on-president-trump-s-veto-of-the-national-defense-authorization-act", "Warner on President Trump's Veto of the National Defense Authorization Act", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after President Trump vetoed the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) over a provision requiring the military to rename bases named for Confederate military leadersand over the lack of language repealing Section 230.\r\nIt's unconscionable that the President would choose to throw a wrench into the passage of a bill as critical as our nation's annual defense bill.\r\nThe President's decision to veto this bipartisan legislation on his way out the door poses a serious threat to U.S. national security. It jeopardizes mission readiness and the well-being of our U.S. servicemembers and their families, as well as military construction projects, investments in innovation and technology, and other critical defense priorities. It also threatens the economy in Virginia, which houses the Pentagon, major headquarters for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as Naval Station Norfolk  the largest naval base in the world.\r\nI look forward to overriding the President's fruitless and ridiculous attempt to undermine our national security over his shifting rationale for his decision to veto, including a provision to rename bases honoring Confederate military leaders  a provision that many in the President's own party have supported.\r\nThe FY21 NDAA, whichpassedthrough the Senate earlier this month, contains a number of Warner-led provisions, including ones tocombatillicit finance,prioritizeU.S. innovation and technology development in 5G and semiconductors,protectmilitary families,createa more diverse pentagon workforce,enablegreater SCIF flexibility, fund theprocurementof a second Virginia-class submarine, and expand the list of service-connected presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange exposure.\r\nSen. Warner is a cosponsor of theConfederate Monument Removal Act,which would remove statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. He has alsospoken publiclyabout the need to remove public symbolsincluding military post nameshonoring the Confederacy as part of broader efforts to advance racial justice.He hasspoken outabout the need to have a thoughtful conversation about Section 230 and the ways in which it has enabled platforms to turn a blind eye to misuse.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/committee-democrats-to-usda-the-pandemic-is-not-an-excuse-to-provide", "Committee Democrats to USDA: The Pandemic is Not an Excuse to Provide Children Unhealthy Food", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DC Today, led by Committee on Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03), Committee Democratswrotein opposition to a Department of Agriculture (USDA) proposal to roll back nutrition standards that have significantly improved the nutritional quality of school meals. The proposal resurrects and expands a 2018 rule that was ultimately vacated by a district court.\nThe Members note that under theHealthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act,it is the responsibility of the Department to ensure that the food children are served in school is nutritious and in close alignment with the evidence-based Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). However, the proposed rule fails to align with the DGAs by drastically altering nutrition standards.\nResearch has shown that approximately half of children's daily dietary intake comes from school breakfast and lunch and that nutrition plays a key role in the health and academic outcomes of children,the Members wrote.We must ensure that school meals remain nutritious, particularly through the pandemic and economic downturn, as they may be the only healthy meals children receive each day.\nTo read the full letter, clickhere.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/education-leaders-celebrate-repeal-of-last-provision-in-federal-law", "Education Leaders Celebrate Repeal of Last Provision in Federal Law Banning Use of Federal Funds for Desegregation", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCChairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03), Committee on Education and Labor, and Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Subcommittee on Appropriations, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS) released the following statement after the House voted to repeal Section 426 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA). The provision was first included in the Fiscal Year 2021 House Labor-HHS Bill and maintained in the final Omnibus Package. This action follows the elimination of two harmful and similar legacy riders in the Fiscal Year 2019 Labor-HHS Bill.\nSegregated schools mean segregated opportunities. More than 66 years after the Supreme Court's landmark decision inBrown v. Board of Education, we have yet to fulfill the promise of equity in education. According to a2016 GAO study, America's public schools aremore segregated todaythan at any time since the 1960s.\nSchool desegregation is proven to close achievement gaps and produce lifelong benefits by providing students of color access to the same resources as their white counterparts. Communities across the country are coming up with innovative strategies to desegregate schools and promote diversity. However, many districts lack the resources necessary to meaningfully address school segregation in their communities.\nBy removing the last remaining provision in federal law that bans the use of federal funds for transportation to promote school integration, Congress is sending a clear message to school districts: The important work of school desegregation brings us closer to finally fulfilling the promise ofBrownand the federal government should support these efforts.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-booker-harris-applaud-passage-of-bill-to-make-a-record-investment-in-low-income-and-minority-communities", "Warner, Booker, Harris Applaud Passage of Bill to Make a Record Investment in Low-Income and Minority Communities", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), andKamala Harris (D-CA) applauded Congressional passage oflegislationthey authored to make the largest single investment into minority-owned and community-based lending institutions in the nation's history. Provisions of theJobs and Neighborhood Investment Actpassed as part of yesterday'sCOVID-19 relief billafter Sen. Warner fought to include them in thelegislative blueprintthat served as the foundation for the final relief deal.\r\nWith Black and Brown unemployment rates more than twice as high as they were at this time last year, we need to be doing everything we can to invest in our most vulnerable communities,said Sen. Warner.I'm proud to have fought for these provisions during bipartisan relief negotiations and I trust that they will help put the brakes on the hemorrhaging of jobs and shuttering of minority-owned businesses caused by this crisis. I urge the President to promptly sign this historic legislation into law so that that minority communities start seeing the relief they desperately need.\r\nAs we work to confront and recover from this public health and economic crisis, we need to be doing everything we can to invest in the communities that have been hardest hit by this pandemic and continue to bear the burden of longstanding structural inequities and systemic racism. The Jobs and Neighborhood Investment Act will expand critically needed access to capital for communities of color and will help to empower minority owned businesses to play an important role in our long-term economic recovery,said Sen. Booker.\r\nTo help every American get through this crisis, we need to start by helping those who need it mostwhether in distributing the vaccine or investing in communities. Our bill will do just that, by providing much-needed capital to communities of color and low-income communities across the country. I'm proud that it will soon become law. Moving forward, we must always remember that relief isn't relief unless it reaches those who've been hardest hit,said Sen. Harris.\r\nOnce signed into law, this legislation will provide $12 billion to community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs) to open the flow of emergency capital to countless small businesses located in minority and low- and moderate-income communities, which have been particularly hard-hit by COVID-19.\r\nJoining Sens. Warner, Booker and Harris in introducing this legislation were Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Doug Jones (D-AL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Boozman (R-AR), John Kennedy (R-LA), Tim Scott (R-SC), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tina Smith (D-MN), Steve Daines (R-MT) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS).\r\nA summary of the originalJobs and Neighborhood Investment Actis availablehere. Text of the bill is availablehere.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402399", "Congressman Griffiths Weekly E-Newsletter 12.21.20", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Christmas is a time of tradition, for families, communities, and throughout our society. For those of us who celebrate, like me, we each have our favorite customs about this season, whether attending a family gathering or town parade or just hearing a favorite Christmas carol.\r\nHow those traditions become things we return to year after year make for interesting stories on their own.\r\nOne story caught my eye recently on the Merriam-Webster dictionary website about the phrase tis the season, a phrase often said around this time of year originating in the Christmas carol Deck the Halls.*\r\nAs someone with Welsh ancestry, and as chairman of the Congressional Friends of Wales Caucus, I was glad to learn that this beloved carol had notable Welsh roots. According to Merriam-Webster, the carol's tune was apparently first recorded in a 1784 book entitled Musical and Poetical Relicks of the Welsh Bards. The book was written by Edward Jones, a harpist for the then-Prince of Wales, the future King George IV, and Jones dedicated his work to the Prince.\r\nA century later, the Welsh tune became linked to a Welsh lyricist. In 1884, a book called The Song Book: Words and Tunes from the Best Poets and Musicians reported that the lyrics to Deck the Halls were a translation by Thomas Oliphant of lyrics written by John Jones, a poet who also went by the Welsh name Talhaiarn.\r\nThose lyrics included tis the season, but they also include the syllables fa la la la la, and the carol's Welsh origins are important in understanding their inclusion.\r\nMerriam-Webster quotes composer John Rutter as saying the song was originally intended for performance by a group of singers and a harpist, the harp being Wales' national instrument. The singers would sing a verse, the harpist would improvise, the singers would move to the next verse, and so on. But harpists are not always available, nor do harps occupy such a prominent place in our culture as they do in that of Wales. As Rutter said, That only worked in Wales where they had harpists on every street corner. So fa la la la la would be sung to take the harp's place.\r\nBefore reading this article, I had not been aware of the link between Wales and this Christmas carol so widely known and sung in our culture. One of the remarkable aspects of the Christmas season is how traditions from so many parts of the world have been blended into the celebrations in our country. You may participate in several without thinking much about it  for example, if you put up a Christmas tree in your house, a custom brought to our country by settlers from Germany.\r\nThe variety of these traditions for one holiday speaks to the universal message of the Christmas season and also to the melting pot of American culture. We should be thankful that we live in a country where we can celebrate, or not celebrate, according to our beliefs.\r\nThis year, the coronavirus pandemic impedes our enjoyment of some of these customs. Community celebrations have been curtailed or cancelled, families are reconsidering whether to have as big a gathering as they might normally have, and the festivities that do take place have as a backdrop the pandemic that has inflicted so much suffering.\r\nMost of us have some aspect of the season we treasure that will not take place as usual this year. I enjoy participating in Christmas parades in the different towns of the Ninth District. After riding through a town saying Merry Christmas and seeing the bright eyes of children and hearing the warm wishes of the adults, I find it impossible to finish a parade without simply feeling good about the world.\r\nChristmas remains a time of hope, and the traditions we come back to each year are also the traditions we can look forward to. I invite you to share some of your own on my official Facebook page where this column is posted.\r\nIf you celebrate Christmas, however you do so this year, I hope that it will bring you comfort and joy, and I wish you a happy and healthy New Year.\r\nIf you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website atwww.morgangriffith.house.gov. Also on my website is the latest material from my office, including information on votes recently taken on the floor of the House of Representatives.\r\n* https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/why-we-say-tis-the-season\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402401", "Griffith Statement on Omnibus Appropriations Legislation", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement on the omnibus appropriations legislation funding the Federal Government for the rest of fiscal year 2021:\r\nAs a supporter of more relief in response to the coronavirus pandemic, I consistently urged congressional leadership to keep any relief package separate from any omnibus appropriations bill to fund the Federal Government. Omnibuses tend to be bloated, filled with unrelated provisions, and cobbled together in backrooms with little time for Members of Congress to read them, much less understand their provisions. They are a terrible way to exercise Congress' power of the purse.\r\nThe omnibus spending bill for fiscal year 2021 is the longest bill I've been asked to vote on in Congress. It was split into two parts running nearly 5,600 pages. The first totaled roughly 500 pages and included funding for the military and border security, including the border wall. I read this part and found its spending to be largely reasonable, so I voted for it.\r\nThe second part containing the remaining 5,000 pages, while reportedly including some provisions I support, also reportedly featured far too many items that have no place in a spending bill. Members of Congress had only a few hours to read and analyze this overstuffed monstrosity. As I have pledged to the constituents of the Ninth District, I will not vote for a bill I have not read in its entirety. I voted no.\r\nI continue to believe Americans need help in the face of the pandemic, and I know most of my colleagues agree. Legislation that would provide help would likely pass Congress easily, and there is no good reason to tie it to the overall omnibus bill.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-applaud-passage-of-government-funding-bill-that-includes-covid-relief", "Warner & Kaine Applaud Passage Of Government Funding Bill That Includes COVID Relief", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 21, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Applaud Passage Of Government Funding Bill That Includes COVID Relief \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBill to offer millions of Americans COVID relief and avert a government shutdown heads to the President's desk\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan, bicameral spending bill to fund federal programs crucial to Virginia and keep the federal government open through 2021. The legislation also includes comprehensive measures to help Americans amid the ongoing economic and public health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Following today's Senate passage, the bill now heads to the President's desk for signature.\r\nFor nine long months, folks waited for Congress to deliver critical relief as they watched COVID-19 further devastate their communities. Today, despite that unacceptable delay, relief is officially on its way, said Warner. I'm proud to have worked with a bipartisan group of colleagues to help get this legislation into shape and in the hands of House and Senate leaders. And while I know that this bill is not perfect, I'm glad to know that it will help American families weather this winter and get through the holidays.\r\nWhile this relief should have been passed much earlier, I'm pleased to see families, small businesses, hospitals, schools, and more get the assistance they need, Kaine said. This legislation makes critical investments in unemployment assistance, food aid, housing assistance, and other areas to directly help those struggling amid the pandemic. Though we still have more work to do to help Americans get back on their feet, I'm relieved Congress was able to come to this bipartisan compromise and fund these priorities before the holidays.\r\nThe following list includes some of the priorities Warner and Kaine advocated:\r\n \r\nAssistance for out of work Virginians: Extends federal unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, preventing hundreds of thousands of out-of-work Virginians from losing benefits over the holidays. The senators were cosponsors of the legislation that provided the model for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), through which more than 9 million Americans are currently receiving benefits. More recently, the Senators called on leadership to extend and add additional weeks of federal employment benefits to both PUA and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation programs. Additionally, it gives states the option to offer additional weekly financial relief for Americans with a mix of traditional (W-2) and independent employment income who are not able to claim their full benefit, modeled after Senator Warner's legislation.\r\n \r\n \r\nStimulus checks: Includes a stimulus payment for low- and middle-income Americans; with $600 for individual filers and $1,200 for joint filers, with an additional $600 for each qualifying child in the household. Early in the crisis, Senator Kaine called for stimulus efforts to include direct payments to households.\r\n \r\n \r\nVaccines: Includes over $19 billion for vaccines and therapeutics and an additional $8.75 billion to support vaccine distribution, particularly for states and localities, to slow the spread of the pandemic and take a step towards a future where COVID-19 is managed.\r\n \r\n \r\nEmergency housing aid and protections: Creates a new $25 billion emergency rental assistance fund to prevent evictions during the pandemic, which will be delivered through state and local governments. Earlier this year, the Senators joined their colleagues in introducing legislation to provide emergency housing assistance for those facing potential evictions. The bill will also extend the CDC eviction moratorium to allow time for implementing the emergency housing aid.\r\n \r\n \r\nRelief for hard-hit small businesses and nonprofits: Provides targeted relief for small businesses struggling with the effects of the pandemic. This includes a second round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans for small businesses and nonprofits that experienced a substantial revenue decline in 2020, as well as other funds for small business relief. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is directed to provide guidance to ensure priority access for underserved communities, such as minority-owned businesses. The bill also includes grants for small businesses and nonprofits in sectors likely to continue to see substantial drops in revenue in 2021, particularly in the live entertainment sector. This aid will ensure that Virginia's small businesses are able to stay afloat during the pandemic, keep workers on payroll, and return to job creation as COVID-19 is controlled. The Senators have been strong supporters of providing relief to small businesses, cosponsoring the Heroes Small Business Lifeline Act, which included many of the provisions in the final bill, and the Save our Stages Act, on which the live entertainment grants are modeled.\r\n \r\n \r\nTargeted relief for underserved communities:Provides the largest single investment in our country's history forminority-owned and community-based lending institutions.Largely drawn from Senator Warner'sJobs and Neighborhood Investment Act, the provision provides $12 billion to community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs) to buildcapital and unlock affordable access to credit for underserved and minority neighborhoods, which have been particularly hard-hit by COVID-19.\r\n \r\n \r\nEducation Stabilization Fund: Provides $82 billion to provide emergency support to K-12 schools and higher education institutions. The legislation includes provisions of Kaine's Coronavirus Relief Flexibility for Students and Institutions Act that allow colleges to use emergency stabilization funds to cover lost revenue and better target funds designated for colleges hardest hit by COVID-19 by requiring an application to demonstrate need.\r\n \r\n \r\nBroadband: Includes $7 billion towards broadband, including $3.2 billion for an Emergency Broadband Benefit to help low-income families maintain their internet connections, $285 million to support broadband access in minority communities, and $300 million in broadband grants modeled on provisions Senator Warner drafted with bipartisan Senators. Additionally, the bill includes an extension of the deadline to use Coronavirus Relief Funds so that state and localities interested in using the money for broadband expansion have more time, as Senator Warner called for.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport for child care providers and families: Includes $10 billion in flexible funding for the Child Care & Development Block Grant (CCDBG) to help support child care providers and ensure that working parents have access to child care during the pandemic. The bill also includes $250 million for Head Start programs.\r\n \r\n \r\nPublic health data modernization: Includes Senator Kaine's Saving Lives Through Better Data Act, which will improve the nation's public health data systems at CDC and through grants to state and local health departments to expand and modernize their systems, promoting more seamless communication, which can save lives when we're faced with public health threats such as COVID-19. The omnibus authorizes $100 million for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2025.\r\n \r\n \r\nTelehealth: Includes Senator Kaine and Senator Schatz's Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act of 2019, which creates a grant program to evaluate, develop, and expand the use of distance health education models such as ECHO to increase access to specialty care in rural and medically underserved populations. The omnibus authorizes $10 million for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. The funding bill also permanently expands coverage of and payment for telehealth to treat mental health care, which is in line with Senator Warner's CONNECT for Health Act, which Senator Kaine is a cosponsor.\r\n \r\n \r\nEnds surprise billing: Includes a provision to end surprise billing, something Senators Warner and Kaine have long advocated for.\r\n \r\n \r\nU.S. Postal Service: Converts the CARES Act $10 billion loan into direct funding for USPS without requiring repayment. These funds will be used for operational costs and other expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Senator Warner is a cosponsor of the Postal Service Emergency Assistance Act, which would provide USPS with significant direct funding.\r\n \r\n \r\nVeterans:Provides $104.4 billion infundingfor the VA, anincrease of $12.5 billion over FY20 levels. This funding increase provides $2.7 billion more than the previous fiscal year for health care delivered at VA facilities nationwide. The bill provides robust funding in several areas important for Virginia veterans, including $815 million for critical VA Medical and Prosthetic research, an increase of $1.18 billion over FY20 levels for electronic health record modernization, nearly $2 billon in support of programs to prevent veteran homelessness and $312.6 million for suicide prevention.\r\n \r\n \r\nInfrastructure: Includes funding for key projects that were championed by Warner and Kaine to benefit Virginia's infrastructure:\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\nIncludes a provision pushed for by Senators Warner and Kaine to allow for the construction of a new Long Bridge on the Potomac River, which will double the capacity of the rail crossing between Virginia and D.C. The current two-track Long Bridge is the only rail bridge connecting Virginia to Washington, D.C., and it is at 98 percent capacity during peak hours, which means it is one of the most significant rail chokepoints along the East Coast. The new Long Bridge program will double the capacity of the Potomac River rail crossing by adding a second two-track bridge adjacent to the existing bridge and including a new bike-pedestrian shared use path spanning the George Washington Memorial Parkway and the Potomac River. Senators Warner and Kaine introduced the Long Bridge Act of 2020 in August to allow for this construction.\r\nIncludes the full federal funding of $150 million for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to fund critical capital investment and safety projects. In addition, the bill provides $14 billion in emergency relief for public transit agencies to continue operations during the pandemic, ensuring access to transportation for frontline workers and civil servants.\r\nIncludes a one year extension of Community Development Block Grant funds to the City of Norfolk and other localities to build climate resilient infrastructure projects. Senators Kaine and Warner joined Senator John Hoeven in introducing S.4017 in June, which would also have provided an extension for the NDRC program.\r\nIncludes $87.5 million for the Chesapeake Bay Programan increase of $2.5 million from FY 2020. The Chesapeake Bay Program coordinates Chesapeake Bay watershed restoration and protection efforts, and the majority of its funds are passed through to the states and local communities for on-the-ground restoration.\r\nAuthorizes federal funds to cover 65% of the costs associated with construction projects to address close to $1.5 billion of flood control needs in the City of Norfolk.\r\nGrants a critical cost adjustment to allow work to continue on the Deep Creek Bridge in Chesapeake to address traffic concerns.\r\nAuthorizes over $102.7 million in federal funds for construction of the North Landing Bridge Replacement project.\r\nProvides up to $9million for the Federal Aviation Administration to continue its remote tower system pilot program at smaller airports, including the Remote Air Traffic Control Tower at Leesburg Executive Airport.\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nGreat American Outdoors Act: With Senator Warner's Great American Outdoors Act now law, the FY21 omnibus affirms funding for several deferred maintenance projects in Virginia:\r\n\r\nGeorge Washington Memorial Parkway  A $207 million project to restore 7.6 miles of northern section of the GW Parkway and implement critical safety measures. The Senators have long advocated for federal funding for this project for several years as seen here and here.\r\nShenandoah National Park  A $27 million project to pave and restore nearly 50 miles of Skyline Drive and various overlooks. Shenandoah will also receive nearly $3.5 million to remove unnecessary buildings and restore greenspace within the park.\r\nColonial National Historical Park  A $16.5 million project to restore nearly 5 miles of shoreline along the York River.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nFBI Headquarters: Provides no funding for a new FBI headquarters and includes language that encourages General Services Administration (GSA) to provide a new prospectus, particularly after the Trump Administration abruptly abandoned plans to develop a new campus headquarters for theFBI. Earlier this year, Senators Warner and Kaine opposed an attempt in an earlier Republican COVID-19 relief package that would have provided $1.75 billion for construction of a new FBI HQ in its current downtown D.C. location.\r\n \r\n \r\nMiners' Benefits: Extends the funding for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund until the end of 2021 by extending the tax on mining companies that helps fund the program. Both Kaine and Warner introduced the Black Lung Benefits Disability Trust Fund Solvency Act calling on Congress to extend the excise tax through the end of 2030.\r\n \r\n \r\nShipbuilding & MILCON funding: Provides $23.27 billion for shipbuilding for 10 battle force ships including full funding for asecond Virginia-classsubmarine, which Senators Warner and Kaine personally advocated for. The bill also appropriates $237 million for 6 MILCON projects in Virginia, including:\r\n\r\nHumphreys Engineer Center, Training Support Facility (Army) - $51m\r\nNorfolk, E-2D Training Facility (Navy) - $30.4m\r\nNorfolk, Corrosion Control and Paint Facility (Navy) - $17.671m\r\nJoint Base Langley-Eustis, Access Control Point Main Gate with Land Acquisition (Air Force) - $19.5m\r\nJoint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Story, Operations Facility and Command Center (Def-Wide) - $54.5m\r\nJEB Little Creek-Story, NSWG Facilities (Def-Wide) - $58m\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nFederal contractors: Senators Warner and Kaine also pushed to extend a provision from CARES (3610), which allows contractual adjustments for a paid leave program, allowing contractors to keep employees on the payroll if federal facilities close due to the pandemic  an important provision for our defense industrial base and cleared national security workforce.\r\n \r\n \r\nFoster care and homeless youth: Includes key provisions of Senator Kaine's bill with Senator Murray and Senator Portman, the Higher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth Act, to remove barriers to financial aid for students experiencing homelessness or students formerly in foster care by easing the application and determination for becoming eligible for aid. The bill also includes language allowing foster youth to remain in the system until October 1, 2021, regardless of their agea move that Senators Warner and Kaine called for in a recent letter to the administration.\r\n \r\n \r\nFundsChildhoodDiseaseResearch:Provides $12.6 million for theGabriellaMillerKids First Pediatric Research Program to conduct pediatric cancer and disease research. The Senators worked toenact the legislationauthorizing this program, named for 10-year-oldGabriellaMillerof Loudoun County, who passed away from cancer in October of 2013.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting working students and families: Includes key provisions of Senator Kaine's bill with Senator Baldwin, the Working Students Act, to reduce the work penalty that many students who work while attending school face. Currently, students who work while attending school often are eligible for less financial aid due to their work income.The appropriations bill enacts a 35% increase for working students and 20% increase for families to the income protection allowance (IPA), shielding more of their income from reducing their financial aid.\r\n \r\n \r\nStudent Loan Repayment: Extends an important change to existing tax policy allowingemployers to use pre-tax dollars to help pay down employees' student debt until 2025  a provision modeled after Senator Warner's bipartisanEmployerParticipation inRepaymentAct to help more than 44 million Americans with student loan debt.\r\n \r\n \r\nAshanti Alert: Includes $1 million in federal funding to help with the nationwide implementation of the AshantiAlert system. Following the abduction of 19-year old Ashanti Billie, who did not meet the criteria for an Amber or Silver Alert, Senator Warner secured unanimous passageof this national alert system through the Senate on December 6, 2018, and has been a leader in the fight to implement theAshantiAlert nationwide ever since.\r\n \r\n \r\nNutrition: Provides $13 billion in nutrition assistance, including a 15 percent increase in SNAP benefits through June 30, 2021 for all SNAP participants. Excludes unemployment compensation from being counted as income for the purposes of calculating SNAP benefits and eligibility. Provides $400 million for food banks through The Emergency Food Assistance Program.\r\n \r\n \r\nFarmers: Provides $13 billion for direct payments, purchases, and loans to producers who have suffered losses due to the pandemic, including funds to support the food supply chain through food purchases, donations to food banks, and support for local food systems. Additionally, it includes $5 billion for supplemental payments to row crop producers; $3 billion for supplemental payments to cattle producers and contract growers of livestock and poultry, dairy farmers, and producers who were forced to euthanize livestock or poultry; $225 million for producers of specialty crops; and $1.5 billion to purchase food for distribution to those in need.\r\n \r\n \r\nTimber Harvesting/Hauling: Provides up to $200 million to support timber harvesting and timber hauling businesses impacted by COVID-19.\r\n \r\n \r\nDairy: Provides up to $400 million for a Dairy Product Donation Program, modeled after the 2018 Farm Bill pilot program to facilitate the donation of dairy products and minimize food waste.\r\n \r\n \r\nTextiles: Allows USDA to make payments to users of upland cotton and extra-long staple cotton.\r\n \r\n \r\nFisheries: Provides $300 million in assistance to help fisheries mitigate COVID-19 related impacts.\r\n \r\n \r\nWater Utility Bill Assistance: Provides $638 million for a new program to help low-income families cover the costs of drinking water and wastewater utility bills by making funds available to states and Tribes. These localities will provide dollars to owners or operators of public water systems or treatment works to reduce arrearages and rates for low-income households.\r\n \r\n \r\nAppalachian Regional Commission: Includes a record $180 million for the Appalachian Regional Commission, an increase of $5 million from FY20.\r\n \r\n\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-passage-of-fiscal-year-2021-omnibus-package-and-covid", "Scott Statement on Passage of Fiscal Year 2021 Omnibus Package and COVID-19 Relief", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCToday, Congressman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03), the Chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor,released the following statement in response to the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) Omnibus spending package and coronavirus relief proposal.\nToday, the House passed a bold spending package and coronavirus relief bill that reflects the priorities of House Democrats: Advancing equity in education, supporting America's workers, and expanding access to affordable health care.\nI am particularly pleased with the inclusion of provisions to drastically expand the Pell Grant program, repeal the ban on Pell eligibility among incarcerated students, and restore Pell Grant eligibility for students defrauded by their institutions. The package also streamlines theFree Application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA) and discharges loans made to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) under the HBCU Capital Financing Loan program, providing $1.34 billion in relief to these institutions. Additionally, the package permanently strikes the prohibition on the use of federal funds for transportation to promote school integrationa huge step toward fulfilling the promise ofBrown v. Board of Educationand desegregating America's public schools.\nThe package also takes long overdue action to protect patients from surprise medical bills  providing workers and families vital protections from unforeseen and exorbitant out of pocket costs.\nFinally, as the country continues to fight the spread of the coronavirus, Congress was able to secure much needed relief. To support students, educators, and parents, we secured $82 billion for schools and colleges and $10 billion for childcare assistance. To support workers, the bill provides a tax credit to employers who offer paid sick leave, increased flexibility for workforce development programs, and an extension of critical assistance for 14 million jobless workers. The bill also ensures millions of Americans can access nutrition benefits by bolstering nutrition assistance for seniors and expanding assistance for nutrition benefits for children through the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer program.\nAs a representative of the Hampton Roads community, I was pleased this package provides over $23 billion for shipbuilding to procure 10 Navy ships, including two Virginia Class Submarines. Also included is a necessary one-year extension of the deadline for the National Disaster Resiliency Competition (NDRC) funds which will allow the City of Norfolk to utilize $112 million to assist with making the city more resilient to frequent flooding. I am also happy to see robust funding to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay included, as well as a one-year extension and $3.3 million for the 400 Years of African American History Commission which will allow them to continue their important work.\nWhile there is still much work to be done to crush this virus and push our economy into recovery, this bill is a positive step forward in supporting students, workers, and families across the country.\nTo read a fact sheet on the significant provision the Committee secured in the end-of year spending package and COVID-19 relief proposal, clickhere.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/rubio-warner-applaud-passage-of-intelligence-authorization-act-in-covid-19-package", "Rubio, Warner Applaud Passage of Intelligence Authorization Act in COVID-19 Package", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Acting Chairman Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA) applauded the upcoming passage of theIntelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (IAA)as part of the bipartisan, targeted COVID-19 relief package. The bill, which wasapprovedby the Committee on a bipartisan 14 - 1 vote on June 8, 2020 andpassedthe Senate on July 23, 2020 as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, authorizes funding, provides legal authorities, and enhances Congressional oversight for the U.S. Intelligence Community.\r\nRecent events make it all too clear that our nation continues to face ever-expanding threats from hostile foreign actors, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea,Rubio said.It is vital that our Intelligence Community has the necessary resources, authorities, and personnel to protect America's national security, and the Senate Intelligence Committee's strong, bipartisan legislation does just that. Our bill also increases government efficiency and represents comprehensive Congressional oversight to ensure that these tools are executed responsibly and cost-effectively.\r\nI am happy to say that the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 was included in the compromise legislation. The IAA ensures that the women and men of America's Intelligence Community have the tools and resources they need to keep our country safe, and to ensure that decision makers are presented with the best intelligence, regardless of fear or favor. Passage of the IAA also ensures that Congress fulfills its mission of providing robust oversight of the nation's intelligence agencies. This bipartisan bill includes key measures to improve our national security and America's technological edge,Warner said.\r\nBackground:\r\nThe IAA for Fiscal Year 2021 ensures that the Intelligence Community can continue its critical work for our country while Congress continues its oversight, including in the following key areas:\r\n \r\nDeterring and uncovering core threats from China and Russia, by identifying their corruption, influence operations, and information suppression;\r\n \r\n \r\nCountering our adversaries' attempts to compromise telecommunications and cybersecurity technology, and requiring complex, extensive assessments of our current critical technologies and their supply chains;\r\n \r\n \r\nStrengthening open source intelligence capabilities for improved collection and analysis across the entire Intelligence Community;\r\n \r\n \r\nEnhancing recruitment and hiring for our Intelligence Community, by giving the agencies the resources and tools they need to advance their talented workforce that protects our nation day in and day out; and\r\n \r\n \r\nEnsuring accountability and integrity from our Intelligence Community agencies, which undertake our most sensitive intelligence programs and activities.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-celebrate-senate-passage-of-bills-renaming-hopewell-leesburg-midlothian-post-offices-after-virginiansa", "Warner & Kaine Applaud Passage of Government Funding Bill that Includes COVID-19 Relief", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan, bicameral spending bill to fund federal programs crucial to Virginia and keep the federal government open through 2021. The legislation also includes comprehensive measures to help Americans amid the ongoing economic and public health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Following today's Senate passage, the bill now heads to the President's desk for signature.\r\nFor nine long months, folks waited for Congress to deliver critical relief as they watched COVID-19 further devastate their communities. Today, despite that unacceptable delay, relief is officially on its way,said Warner.I'm proud to have worked with a bipartisan group of colleagues to help get this legislation into shape and in the hands of House and Senate leaders. And while I know that this bill is not perfect, I'm glad to know that it will help American families weather this winter and get through the holidays.\r\nWhile this relief should have been passed much earlier, I'm pleased to see families, small businesses, hospitals, schools, and more get the assistance they need,Kaine said.This legislation makes critical investments in unemployment assistance, food aid, housing assistance, and other areas to directly help those struggling amid the pandemic. Though we still have more work to do to help Americans get back on their feet, I'm relieved Congress was able to come to this bipartisan compromise and fund these priorities before the holidays.\r\nThe following list includes some of the priorities Warner and Kaine advocated:\r\n \r\nAssistance for out of work Virginians:Extends federal unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, preventing hundreds of thousands of out-of-work Virginians from losing benefits over the holidays. The senators were cosponsors of thelegislationthat provided the model for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), through which more than 9 million Americans are currently receiving benefits. More recently, the Senators called onleadershipto extend and add additional weeks of federal employment benefits to both PUA and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation programs. Additionally, it gives states the option to offer additional weekly financial relief for Americans with a mix of traditional (W-2) and independent employment income who are not able to claim their full benefit, modeledafter Senator Warner'slegislation.\r\n \r\n \r\nStimulus checks:Includes a stimulus payment for low- and middle-income Americans; with $600 for individual filers and $1,200 for joint filers, with an additional $600 for each qualifying child in the household. Early in the crisis, Senator Kainecalledfor stimulus efforts to include direct payments to households.\r\n \r\n \r\nVaccines:Includes over $19 billion for vaccines and therapeutics and an additional $8.75 billion to support vaccine distribution, particularly for states and localities, to slow the spread of the pandemic and take a step towards a future where COVID-19 is managed.\r\n \r\n \r\nEmergency housing aid and protections:Creates a new $25 billion emergency rental assistance fund to prevent evictions during the pandemic, which will be delivered through state and local governments. Earlier this year, the Senators joined their colleagues in introducing legislation to provide emergencyhousing assistancefor those facing potential evictions. The bill will also extend the CDC eviction moratorium to allow time for implementing the emergency housing aid.\r\n \r\n \r\nRelief for hard-hit small businesses and nonprofits:Provides targeted relief for small businesses struggling with the effects of the pandemic. This includes a second round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans for small businesses and nonprofits that experienced a substantial revenue decline in 2020, as well as other funds for small business relief. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is directed to provide guidance to ensure priority access for underserved communities, such as minority-owned businesses. The bill also includes grants for small businesses and nonprofits in sectors likely to continue to see substantial drops in revenue in 2021, particularly in the live entertainment sector. This aid will ensure that Virginia's small businesses are able to stay afloat during the pandemic, keep workers on payroll, and return to job creation as COVID-19 is controlled. The Senators have been strong supporters of providing relief to small businesses, cosponsoring theHeroes Small Business Lifeline Act, which included many of the provisions in the final bill, and theSave our Stages Act, on which the live entertainment grants are modeled.\r\n \r\n \r\nTargeted relief for underserved communities:Provides the largest single investment in our country's history forminority-owned and community-based lending institutions.Largely drawn from Senator Warner'sJobs and Neighborhood Investment Act, the provision provides $12 billion to community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs) to buildcapital and unlockaffordable access to credit for underserved and minority neighborhoods, which have been particularly hard-hit by COVID-19.\r\n \r\n \r\nEducation Stabilization Fund:Provides $82 billion to provide emergency support to K-12 schools and higher education institutions. The legislation includes provisions of Kaine'sCoronavirus Relief Flexibility for Students and Institutions Actthat allow colleges to use emergency stabilization funds to cover lost revenue and better target funds designated for colleges hardest hit by COVID-19 by requiring an application to demonstrate need.\r\n \r\n \r\nBroadband: Includes $7 billion towards broadband, including $3.2 billion for an Emergency Broadband Benefit to help low-income families maintain their internet connections, $285 million to support broadband access in minority communities, and $300 million in broadband grants modeled on provisions Senator Warnerdraftedwith bipartisan Senators. Additionally, the bill includes anextension of the deadlineto use Coronavirus Relief Funds so that state and localities interested in using the money for broadband expansion have more time, as Senator Warner called for.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport for child care providers and families:Includes $10 billion in flexible funding for the Child Care & Development Block Grant (CCDBG) to help support child care providers and ensure that working parents have access to child care during the pandemic. The bill also includes $250 million for Head Start programs.\r\n \r\n \r\nPublic health data modernization:Includes Senator Kaine'sSaving Lives Through Better Data Act, which will improve the nation's public health data systems at CDC and through grants to state and local health departments to expand and modernize their systems, promoting more seamless communication, which can save lives when we're faced with public health threats such as COVID-19. The omnibus authorizes $100 million for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2025.\r\n \r\n \r\nTelehealth:Includes Senator Kaine and Senator Schatz'sExpanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act of2019, which creates a grant program to evaluate, develop, and expand the use of distance health education models such as ECHO to increase access to specialty care in rural and medically underserved populations. The omnibus authorizes $10 million for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. The funding bill also permanently expands coverage of and payment for telehealth to treat mental health care, which is in line with Senator Warner'sCONNECT for Health Act, which Senator Kaine is a cosponsor.\r\n \r\n \r\nEnds surprise billing:Includes a provision to end surprise billing, something SenatorsWarnerand Kaine have long advocated for.\r\n \r\n \r\nU.S. Postal Service:Converts the CARES Act $10 billion loan into direct funding for USPS without requiring repayment. These funds will be used for operational costs and other expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Senator Warner is a cosponsor of thePostal Service Emergency Assistance Act,which would provide USPS with significant direct funding.\r\n \r\n \r\nVeterans:Provides $104.4 billion infundingfor the VA, anincrease of $12.5 billion over FY20 levels. This funding increaseprovides $2.7 billion more than the previous fiscal year for health care delivered at VA facilities nationwide. The bill provides robust funding in several areas important for Virginia veterans, including $815 million for critical VA Medical and Prosthetic research, an increase of $1.18 billion over FY20 levels for electronic health record modernization, nearly $2 billon in support of programs to prevent veteran homelessnessand $312.6 million for suicide prevention.\r\n \r\n \r\nInfrastructure:Includes funding for key projects that were championed by Warner and Kaine to benefit Virginia's infrastructure:\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\nIncludes a provision pushed for by Senators Warner and Kaine to allow for the construction of a newLong Bridgeon the Potomac River, which will double the capacity of the rail crossing between Virginia and D.C. The current two-track Long Bridge is the only rail bridge connecting Virginia to Washington, D.C., and it is at 98 percent capacity during peak hours, which means it is one of the most significant rail chokepoints along the East Coast. The new Long Bridge program will double the capacity of the Potomac River rail crossing by adding a second two-track bridge adjacent to the existing bridge and including a new bike-pedestrian shared use path spanning the George Washington Memorial Parkway and the Potomac River. Senators Warner and Kaine introduced theLong Bridge Act of 2020in August to allow for this construction.\r\nIncludes the full federal funding of $150 million for theWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)to fund critical capital investment and safety projects. In addition, the bill provides $14 billion in emergency relief for public transit agencies to continue operations during the pandemic, ensuring access to transportation for frontline workers and civil servants.\r\nIncludes a one year extension of Community Development Block Grant fundsto the City of Norfolkand other localities to build climate resilient infrastructure projects. Senators Kaine and Warner joined Senator John Hoeven in introducingS.4017in June, which would also have provided an extension for the NDRC program.\r\nIncludes $87.5 million for theChesapeake Bay Programan increase of $2.5 million from FY 2020. The Chesapeake Bay Program coordinates Chesapeake Bay watershed restoration and protection efforts, and the majority of its funds are passed through to the states and local communities for on-the-ground restoration.\r\nAuthorizes federal funds to cover 65% of the costs associated with construction projects to address close to $1.5 billion of flood control needs in theCity of Norfolk.\r\nGrants a critical cost adjustment to allow work to continue on the Deep Creek Bridge inChesapeaketo address traffic concerns.\r\nAuthorizes over $102.7 million in federal funds for construction of theNorth Landing BridgeReplacement project.\r\nProvides up to $9million for the Federal Aviation Administration to continue its remote tower system pilot program at smaller airports, including the Remote Air Traffic Control Tower atLeesburg Executive Airport.\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nGreat American Outdoors Act:With Senator Warner'sGreat American Outdoors Actnow law, the FY21 omnibus affirms funding for several deferred maintenance projects in Virginia:\r\n\r\nGeorge Washington Memorial Parkway  A $207 million project to restore 7.6 miles of northern section of the GW Parkway and implement critical safety measures. The Senators have long advocated for federal funding for this project for several years as seenhereandhere.\r\nShenandoah National Park  A $27 million project to pave and restore nearly 50 miles of Skyline Drive and various overlooks. Shenandoah will also receive nearly $3.5 million to remove unnecessary buildings and restore greenspace within the park.\r\nColonial National Historical Park A $16.5 million project to restore nearly 5 miles of shoreline along the York River.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nFBI Headquarters:Provides no funding for a new FBI headquarters and includes language that encourages General Services Administration (GSA) to provide a new prospectus, particularly after the Trump Administration abruptly abandoned plans to develop a new campus headquarters for theFBI. Earlier this year, Senators Warner and Kaineopposedan attempt in an earlier Republican COVID-19 relief package that would have provided $1.75 billion for construction of a new FBI HQ in its current downtown D.C. location. \r\n \r\n \r\nMiners' Benefits:Extends the funding for the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund until the end of 2021 by extending the tax on mining companies that helps fund the program. Both Kaine and Warner introduced theBlack Lung Benefits Disability Trust Fund Solvency Actcalling on Congress to extend the excise tax through the end of 2030.\r\n \r\n \r\nShipbuilding & MILCON funding:Provides $23.27 billion for shipbuilding for 10 battle force ships includingfull funding for asecond Virginia-classsubmarine, which SenatorsWarnerand Kaine personally advocatedfor. The bill also appropriates $237 million for 6 MILCON projects in Virginia, including:\r\n\r\nHumphreys Engineer Center, Training Support Facility (Army) - $51m\r\nNorfolk, E-2D Training Facility (Navy) - $30.4m\r\nNorfolk, Corrosion Control and Paint Facility (Navy) - $17.671m\r\nJoint Base Langley-Eustis, Access Control Point Main Gate with Land Acquisition (Air Force) - $19.5m\r\nJoint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Story, Operations Facility and Command Center (Def-Wide) - $54.5m\r\nJEB Little Creek-Story, NSWG Facilities (Def-Wide) - $58m\r\n\r\n\r\nFederal contractors:Senators Warner and Kaine also pushed to extend a provision fromCARES (3610),which allows contractual adjustments for a paid leave program, allowing contractors to keep employees on the payroll if federal facilities close due to the pandemic  an important provision for our defense industrial base and cleared national security workforce.\r\n \r\n \r\nFoster care and homeless youth:Includes key provisions of Senator Kaine's bill with Senator Murray and Senator Portman, theHigher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth Act, to remove barriers to financial aid for students experiencing homelessness or students formerly in foster care by easing the application and determination for becoming eligible for aid. The bill also includes language allowing foster youth to remain in the system until October 1, 2021, regardless of their agea move that Senators Warner and Kaine called for in a recentletterto the administration.\r\n \r\n \r\nFundsChildhoodDiseaseResearch:Provides $12.6 million for theGabriellaMillerKids First Pediatric Research Program to conduct pediatric cancer and disease research. The Senators worked toenact the legislationauthorizing this program, named for 10-year-oldGabriellaMillerof Loudoun County, who passed away from cancer in October of 2013.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting working students and families:Includes key provisions of Senator Kaine's bill with Senator Baldwin, theWorking Students Act,to reduce the work penalty that many students who work while attending school face. Currently, students who work while attending school often are eligible for less financial aid due to their work income.The appropriations bill enacts a 35% increase for working students and 20% increase for families to the income protection allowance (IPA), shielding more of their income from reducing their financial aid.\r\n \r\n \r\nStudent Loan Repayment:Extends an important change to existing tax policy allowingemployers to use pre-tax dollars to help pay down employees' student debt until 2025  a provision modeled after Senator Warner's bipartisanEmployerParticipation inRepaymentActto help more than 44 million Americans with student loan debt.\r\n \r\n \r\nAshanti Alert: Includes $1 million in federalfunding to help with the nationwide implementation of theAshantiAlert system. Following the abduction of 19-year old Ashanti Billie, who did not meet the criteria for an Amber or Silver Alert,Senator Warnersecured unanimous passageof this national alert system through the Senate on December 6, 2018, and has been a leader in the fight to implement theAshantiAlert nationwide ever since.\r\n \r\n \r\nNutrition:Provides $13 billion in nutrition assistance, including a 15 percent increase in SNAP benefits through June 30, 2021 for all SNAP participants. Excludes unemployment compensation from being counted as income for the purposes of calculating SNAP benefits and eligibility. Provides $400 million for food banks through The Emergency Food Assistance Program.\r\n \r\n \r\nFarmers: Provides $13 billion for direct payments, purchases, and loans to producers who have suffered losses due to the pandemic, including funds to support the food supply chain through food purchases, donations to food banks, and support for local food systems. Additionally, it includes $5 billion for supplemental payments to row crop producers; $3 billion for supplemental payments to cattle producers and contract growers of livestock and poultry, dairy farmers, and producers who were forced to euthanize livestock or poultry; $225 million for producers of specialty crops; and $1.5 billion to purchase food for distribution to those in need.\r\n \r\n \r\nTimber Harvesting/Hauling:Provides up to $200 million to support timber harvesting and timber hauling businesses impacted by COVID-19.\r\n \r\n \r\nDairy:Provides up to $400 million for a Dairy Product Donation Program, modeled after the 2018 Farm Bill pilot program to facilitate the donation of dairy products and minimize food waste.\r\n \r\n \r\nTextiles:Allows USDA to make payments to users of upland cotton and extra-long staple cotton.\r\n \r\n \r\nFisheries: Provides $300 million in assistance to help fisheries mitigate COVID-19 related impacts.\r\n \r\n \r\nWater Utility Bill Assistance:Provides $638 million for a new program to help low-income families cover the costs of drinking water and wastewater utility bills by making funds available to states and Tribes. These localities will provide dollars to owners or operators of public water systems or treatment works to reduce arrearages and rates for low-income households.\r\n \r\n \r\nAppalachian Regional Commission:Includes a record $180 million for the Appalachian Regional Commission, an increase of $5 million from FY20.\r\n \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/education-leaders-celebrate-higher-education-agreement-in-fy21-omnibus", "Education Leaders Celebrate Higher Education Agreement in FY21 Omnibus", "2020-12-20", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCToday, following the release of the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) Omnibus bill text, Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03), Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Investment Chair Susan Davis (CA-53), and Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Chair Alma Adams (NC-12) celebrated the major Democratic priorities for higher education included in the spending bill.\nThe bill expands the Pell Grant program, which will result in hundreds of thousands of students becoming newly eligible for Pell and millions of current recipients receiving larger awards. The bill also repeals the ban on Pell eligibility among incarcerated students and restores Pell Grant eligibility for students defrauded by their institutions.\nTo ensure students get the financial support they need, the bill streamlines theFree Application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA) and eliminates a confusing and punitive restriction that limits eligibility for subsidized federal loans among low-income students. Finally, the legislation discharges loans made to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) under the HBCU Capital Financing Loan program, providing $1.34 billion in relief to these institutions.\nThis bipartisan agreement is a significant step toward making higher education more affordable for millions of Americans. The package released today includesawide range of provisions  secured by House Democrats  that will make federal grants and loans more accessible and more generous, particularly for our most vulnerable students,said Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott.Congress has a responsibility to expand access to quality higher education, which remains the surest path to the middle class. While this is not the comprehensive overhaul of theHigher Education Actand there is still work to be done, this proposal will help millions of students. I'm pleased House Democrats secured these sweeping reforms on behalf of students across the country.\n\"The omnibus agreement provides increased opportunities in higher education and a path to the middle class,\"said Rep. Davis, Chairwoman of the Higher Education and Workforce Investment Subcommittee.\"This will mean a brighter future for millions of young people as our communities will also benefit from their knowledge, skills, and expertise for years to come.\nThis year's omnibus empowers students by expanding and simplifying the federal student aid programs, and by removing barriers for low-income and justice-involved individuals,said Rep. Adams, Chairwoman of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.Additionally, I'm proud to announce the inclusion of my legislation, H.R. 7380, the HBCU Capital Finance Debt Relief Act, which relieves over $1.3 billion in debt for our HBCUs, allowing these institutions to continue their mission of empowering communities of color. Combined, these measures will help ensure that higher education continues to be an accessible bridge to the middle class.\nThe bill achieves longstanding Democratic priorities, including:\n Expanding the Pell Grant programand making it easier for students to predict their eligibility, which will make hundreds of thousands of students newly eligible for Pell and increase award amounts for millions of current Pell recipients.\n\tMaking it easier for students to apply  and qualify  for federal student aidby streamlining the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and expanding outreach and awareness activities to encourage FAFSA completion, with a focus on low-income students and families.\n\tExpanding opportunities for justice-involved individualsto get an education and successfully reenter their communities by providing incarcerated students access to Pell Grants.\n\tDischarging loans made to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)under the HBCU Capital Financing Loan program, providing $1.34 billion in relief.\n\tEliminating a confusing and punitive restrictionthat limits eligibility for subsidized federal loans among low-income students.\n\tRestoring Pell Grant eligibility for defrauded students, including those who attended shuttered for-profit colleges like ITT Technical Institutes and Corinthian Colleges.\n\t\t\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-sen-warner-on-bipartisan-covid-19-relief", "Statement of Sen. Warner on Bipartisan COVID-19 Relief", "2020-12-20", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released a statement today after congressional leaders announced a bipartisan, bicameral deal to provide emergency COVID-19 relief:\r\nTen months into the pandemic, millions of American families, workers, and small businesses are still struggling. With unemployment benefits set to run out the day after Christmas and families facing eviction in the New Year, Congress cannot afford to delay help any longer. That's why I worked with a group of my colleagues to put together a relief deal that could get bipartisan support in Congress. I'm pleased that congressional leaders took up our proposal and have finally announced long-awaited help for families, students, small businesses, health care providers, and schools to get through at least the next few months of this crisis.\r\nToday's announcement was made possible in large part by the work of Sen. Warner and a group of colleagues, who broke an 8-month-long partisan logjam over relief negotiations by putting forwarda bipartisan, bicameral compromise frameworkafter Thanksgiving to provide much-needed relief to American students, families, businesses, workers, and health care providers during this crisis. The legislation announced today by congressional leaders draws heavily on thebill drafted by Sen. Warner and his colleagues.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-u-s-sen-mark-r-warner-on-section-230-hearing", "Statement of U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on COVID-19 Relief Deal", "2020-12-20", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released a statement today after congressional leaders announced a bipartisan, bicameral deal to provide emergency COVID-19 relief:\r\nTen months into the pandemic, millions of American families, workers, and small businesses are still struggling. With unemployment benefits set to run out the day after Christmas and families facing eviction in the New Year, Congress cannot afford to delay help any longer. That's why I worked with a group of my colleagues to put together a relief deal that could get bipartisan support in Congress. I'm pleased that congressional leaders took up our proposal and have finally announced long-awaited help for families, students, small businesses, health care providers, and schools to get through at least the next few months of this crisis.\r\nToday's announcement was made possible in large part by the work of Sen. Warner and a group of colleagues, who broke an 8-month-long partisan logjam over relief negotiations by putting forwarda bipartisan, bicameral compromise frameworkafter Thanksgiving to provide much-needed relief to American students, families, businesses, workers, and health care providers during this crisis. The legislation announced today by congressional leaders draws heavily on thebill drafted by Sen. Warner and his colleagues.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-receives-covid-19-vaccine", "Scott Receives COVID-19 Vaccine", "2020-12-19", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine:\nIn order to ensure the continuity of government, the Attending Physician of the United States Congress has recommended that Members of Congress begin receiving the FDA-approved Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. I am no more important than any of the people I was elected by and have the privilege to serve in Congress. However, recognizing the importance in boosting the public's confidence in the safety and efficacy of this vaccine and ensuring that Congress is able to continue to fully function in light of this surging pandemic, I decided to follow the Attending Physician's recommendation and was vaccinated earlier today.\nThe approval of multiple effective vaccines to combat the coronavirus has been a moment of great hope for many across the nation. Too many lives and livelihoods have been lost to this pandemic, and the distribution of vaccines marks the beginning of the end of this terrible time in our history. As we wait for the vaccine to be widely distributed across the country, we must all continue to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance by wearing masks in public and observing social distancing. By following those guidelines and having faith in science and the vaccine, we will all finally end this pandemic together.\nThe letter from the Attending Physician of the United States Congress to Members of Congress can be accessed here.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402400", "Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems to Receive $2,087,196", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems to Receive $2,087,196 \r\n  \r\n     \r\n\r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n    \r\n      The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded $2,087,196 to Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems headquartered in Saltville. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:\r\nCommunity health centers provide care to many in Southwest Virginia, and during the coronavirus outbreak they have a critical role to play. The distribution of $2,087,196 in funds to Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems will help promote accessible and quality health care for those who rely upon them. This will support the hard work and expert care provided by the professionals at our community health centers.  \r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/va-and-md-senators-urge-incoming-biden-administration-to-protect-tps-holders-", "Va. & Md. Senators Urge Incoming Biden Administration to Protect TPS Holders", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 18, 2020\n\t\t\t Va. & Md. Senators Urge Incoming Biden Administration to Protect TPS Holders  \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\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 Also Urge Immediate Protection for Nationals of Central American Countries Devastated by Hurricanes Eta and Iota ~\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON  U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-MD)today sent a letter to Alejandro Mayorkas, President-elect Biden's nominee for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), urging him to take swift action once confirmed to protect 58,000 Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients living in Virginia and Maryland alone. Currently, TPS status for thousands of beneficiaries continues to be in jeopardy due to ongoing legal efforts by the Trump Administration to terminate the program. In a letter to DHS Secretary-Designate Mayorkas, the Senators applaud the Biden Administration's commitment to protect current TPS holders and its pledge to grant TPS to Venezuelans already in the United States. The Senators also ask the incoming administration to take immediate executive actions to provide stability for TPS recipients and their families from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, and Sudan.\r\nWe write today to reiterate our support for immediate action to protect the hundreds of thousands of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients whose continued lawful status in the country remains in jeopardy as a result of the Trump Administration's efforts to terminate their protections and to urge you to promptly issue additional TPS designations and redesignations based upon a sober assessment of country conditions and an exercise of your clear statutory authority. We are pleased that President-elect Biden has pledged to grant TPS to Venezuelans already in the United States, something for which we have advocated. It is critical, especially during the ongoing public health and economic crises brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, for the Biden-Harris Administration to act quickly to provide clarity and long-term stability to TPS recipients in our communities, wrote the Senators to DHS Secretary-Desginate Alejandro Mayorkas.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators highlight that over the past four years, the Trump Administration has taken action to terminate TPS protections for recipients from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, and Sudan, a move that President-elect Biden has described as politically motivated. While the Trump Administration recently extended TPS and associated work authorization documents for these individuals until October 4, 2021, TPS protections could still be removed without swift action by the incoming Biden Administration.\r\nTPS recipients from these six countries represent approximately 400,000 residents and over 97 percent of all TPS recipients nationwide. We are proud to represent over 58,000 TPS recipients in the National Capitol region alone. Additionally, approximately 63,100 U.S. citizen children of TPS recipients, many of whom are school-aged, live in our region. We cannot overstate the importance of our desire to protect those American children from the brutal choice they and their families will face if the Trump Administration's terminations are permitted to go into effect. Their parents will immediately lose their permission to work. And each child will be forced to either separate from their parents or be uprooted from the lives they have built in thistheir owncountry. In Virginia and Maryland alone, an estimated 13,300 TPS holders work in industries that DHS deems essential critical infrastructure' including health care, agriculture, and manufacturing. These individuals have worked alongside other Americans at great risk to themselves and their family members to help keep the country running, and they will continue to play an important role in the recovery and rebuilding ahead, continued the Senators.\r\nIn addition to calling for a swift reversal of the Trump Administration's TPS policies and urging the incoming Biden Administration to explore executive actions to provide stability for TPS recipients, the Senators ask the incoming Biden Administration to send an immigration bill to Congress that includes pathways towards lawful permanent residency for TPS recipients. The Senators also urge the Administration to redesignate El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua for TPS and issue a new TPS designation for Guatemala due to the devastation from Hurricanes Eta and Iota.\r\nA copy of the letter is found here and below.\r\nDear Secretary-Designate Mayorkas:\r\nWe would like to congratulate you on President-elect Joe Biden's announcement that he intends to nominate you for the position of Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We trust that your experience as Director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and as Deputy Secretary of DHS, along with your personal experience as a son of refugees, will leave you well-positioned to address the pressing issues facing our nation's immigration system, many of which have been significantly worsened by the Trump Administration's harmful policies.\r\nThe task of the incoming Biden-Harris Administration will be, as the President-elect often states, to restore the soul of the nation, which is urgently needed in the sphere of immigration policy. We write today to reiterate our support for immediate action to protect the hundreds of thousands of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients whose continued lawful status in the country remains in jeopardy as a result of the Trump Administration's efforts to terminate their protections and to urge you to promptly issue additional TPS designations and redesignations based upon a sober assessment of country conditions and an exercise of your clear statutory authority. We are pleased that President-elect Biden has pledged to grant TPS to Venezuelans already in the United States, something for which we have advocated. It is critical, especially during the ongoing public health and economic crises brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, for the Biden-Harris Administration to act quickly to provide clarity and long-term stability to TPS recipients in our communities.\r\nOver the past four years, the Trump Administration moved to terminate TPS for recipients from six nations: El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, and Sudan. President-elect Biden decried these decisions as having been politically-motivateda finding supported by a report prepared by the minority staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and by the federal district court in Ramos v. Nielsen that initially blocked several terminations from taking effect. Only by virtue of litigation that remains pending have these designations remained in place, but the success of that litigation is now in doubt, and the continued fear and uncertainty experienced by TPS recipients are very real. While the Trump Administration, as a result of the outstanding court cases, recently extended TPS and associated work authorization documents for these individuals until October 4, 2021, even that brief reprieve could be taken away from many of these individuals if a court ruling comes soon.\r\nTPS recipients from these six countries represent approximately 400,000 residents and over 97 percent of all TPS recipients nationwide. We are proud to represent over 58,000 TPS recipients in the National Capitol region alone. Additionally, approximately 63,100 U.S. citizen children of TPS recipients, many of whom are school-aged, live in our region. We cannot overstate the importance of our desire to protect those American children from the brutal choice they and their families will face if the Trump Administration's terminations are permitted to go into effect. Their parents will immediately lose their permission to work. And each child will be forced to either separate from their parents or be uprooted from the lives they have built in thistheir owncountry. In Virginia and Maryland alone, an estimated 13,300 TPS holders work in industries that DHS deems essential critical infrastructure including health care, agriculture, and manufacturing. These individuals have worked alongside other Americans at great risk to themselves and their family members to help keep the country running, and they will continue to play an important role in the recovery and rebuilding ahead.\r\nThe incoming Biden-Harris Administration has promised to immediately review Temporary Protected Status for vulnerable populations who cannot find safety in their countries due to violence or disaster. Additionally, the new administration has promoted a pathway to citizenship through legislative immigration reform for TPS and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients. While we share the Biden-Harris Administration's desire for a comprehensive review of TPS policy and pathways to citizenship, we also urge you to take immediate executive actions to provide stability for TPS recipients and their families in the U.S. weathering the public health and economic crises brought on by COVID-19.\r\nFirst, we respectfully request that the Biden-Harris Administration issue a notice in the Federal Register on January 20, 2021, vacating the Trump Administration's termination decisions for all six nations and automatically extending current protections, including Employment Authorization Documents, while committing to conduct new fact-based assessments of country conditions required by law. Decisions regarding whether to extend, redesignate, or terminate protections for each of these countries must be made based upon the facts and the law. We also encourage you to consider granting DED to nationals of these countries, if necessary, as a way to ensure continuity of protections in the interim.\r\nSecond, in connection with the decision to review country conditions anew, we respectfully request that the Biden-Harris Administration promptly redesignate El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, for TPSand issue a new TPS designation for Guatemalaas a result of the devastation left behind by Hurricanes Eta and Iota. The economic damage to these countries from these two unprecedented hurricanes is projected to far surpass the damage caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1998 on which the current designations for Honduras and Nicaragua are based. Widespread flooding and landslides caused substantial damage to critical infrastructure, housing, livelihoods, and food security, and weakened each country's public health infrastructure at a time when they were already struggling to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. The governments of Honduras and Guatemala already have made formal requests for TPSa pre-condition for designations under Section 244(b)(1)(B)but the extraordinary and temporary conditions that make it impossible for these four countries to safely accept the return of their nationals more than justifies designations under Section 244(b)(1)(C), which does not require a request from a foreign government.\r\nAs the new administration works to fulfill its promise of sending an immigration reform bill to Congress within its first 100 days, we urge you to consult the models of the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act, as well as the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and in Emergency (SECURE) Act. Both bills include pathways towards lawful permanent residency for TPS recipients.\r\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the reality that millions of immigrants, both documented and undocumented, work alongside other Americans every day to keep the country going, and their work and contributions will be no less important as we begin to turn the corner and work toward a national recovery that is strong, resilient, and equitable. This is true of more than 131,000 TPS holders who are serving in jobs essential to the nation's critical infrastructure. As we overcome this crisis, we owe a debt of gratitude to these communities that we can begin to pay by extending citizenship to those who have dutifully served their neighbors in a time of crisis. We commit to working with you to achieve that goal. Thank you for your time and consideration.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/bipartisan-bicameral-group-finish-what-we-started", "Bipartisan, Bicameral Group: Finish What We Started", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Today, U.S. Sen.s Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) and Tom Reed (R-NY-23) called on Congress to deliver immediate COVID-19 relief to the American people. Earlier this week, the Senators and the Problem Solvers Caucusshared two bills, one of which, thebipartisanCOVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020, is serving as the framework for the final COVID-19 relief package.\r\nToday we find ourselves in the middle of a global pandemic that has taken the lives of more than 310,000 Americans, and hours away from a government shutdown that threatens to delay urgent aid to people in need throughout the nation. We must set our differences aside. The American people elected us to govern on their behalf, and at a time when they need us more than ever we must end the partisan games and meet this moment together for the good of the country. On Monday, our bipartisan, bicameral group presented a bill that helps provide for the emergency needs of the millions of families struggling to make ends meet. Once again, we encourage the leaders to finish what we started and deliver immediate assistance to the workers, families and businesses that need it most.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-sen-mark-r-warner-on-facebook-s-decision-to-finally-ban-qanon-from-its-platforms", "Statement of Sen. Warner on Proposal to Hamstring 13(3) Authority", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, released a statement today:\r\nLegal experts, senior banking officials, and former Republican and Democratic regulatory officials all agree: the proposal to pull back on the Fed's 13(3) authority would set a terrible precedent, hurt the Fed's independence, and weaken its ability to respond quickly to future crises.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/va-md-senators-urge-incoming-biden-administration-to-protect-tps-holders", "Va. & Md. Senators Urge Incoming Biden Administration to Protect TPS Holders", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-MD)today sent a letter to Alejandro Mayorkas, President-elect Biden's nominee for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), urging him to take swift action once confirmed to protect 58,000 Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients living in Virginia and Maryland alone. Currently, TPS status for thousands of beneficiaries continues to be in jeopardy due to ongoing legal efforts by the Trump Administration to terminate the program. In a letter to DHS Secretary-Designate Mayorkas, the Senators applaud the Biden Administration's commitment to protect current TPS holders and its pledge to grant TPS to Venezuelans already in the United States. The Senators also ask the incoming administration to take immediate executive actions to provide stability for TPS recipients and their families from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, and Sudan.\r\nWe write today to reiterate our support for immediate action to protect the hundreds of thousands of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients whose continued lawful status in the country remains in jeopardy as a result of the Trump Administration'sefforts to terminate their protections and to urge you to promptly issue additional TPS designations and redesignations based upon a sober assessment of country conditions and an exercise of your clear statutory authority. We are pleased that President-elect Biden has pledged to grant TPS to Venezuelans already in the United States, something for which we have advocated. It is critical, especially during the ongoing public health and economic crises brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, for the Biden-Harris Administration to act quickly to provide clarity and long-term stability to TPS recipients in our communities,wrote the Senators to DHS Secretary-Desginate Alejandro Mayorkas.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators highlight that over the past four years, the Trump Administration has taken action to terminate TPS protections for recipients from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, and Sudan, a move that President-elect Biden has described as politically motivated.While the Trump Administration recently extended TPS and associated work authorization documents for these individuals until October 4, 2021, TPS protections could still be removed without swift action by the incoming Biden Administration.\r\nTPS recipients from these six countries represent approximately 400,000 residents and over 97 percent of all TPS recipients nationwide. We are proud to represent over 58,000 TPS recipients in the National Capitol region alone. Additionally, approximately 63,100 U.S. citizen children of TPS recipients, many of whom are school-aged, live in our region.We cannot overstate the importance of our desire to protect those American children from the brutal choice they and their families will face if the Trump Administration's terminations are permitted to go into effect. Their parents will immediately lose their permission to work. And each child will be forced to either separate from their parents or be uprooted from the lives they have built in thistheir owncountry. In Virginia and Maryland alone, an estimated 13,300 TPS holders work in industries that DHS deems essential critical infrastructure' including health care, agriculture, and manufacturing.These individuals have worked alongside other Americans at great risk to themselves and their family members to help keep the country running, and they will continue to play an important role in the recovery and rebuilding ahead,continued the Senators.\r\nIn addition to calling for a swift reversal of the Trump Administration's TPS policies and urging the incoming Biden Administration to explore executive actions to provide stability for TPS recipients, the Senators ask the incoming Biden Administration to send an immigration bill to Congress that includes pathways towards lawful permanent residency for TPS recipients. The Senators also urge the Administration to redesignate El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua for TPS and issue a new TPS designation for Guatemala due to the devastation from Hurricanes Eta and Iota.\r\nA copy of the letter is foundhereand below.\r\n\r\nDear Secretary-Designate Mayorkas:\r\nWe would like to congratulate you on President-elect Joe Biden's announcement that he intends to nominate you for the position of Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We trust that your experience as Director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and as Deputy Secretary of DHS, along with your personal experience as a son of refugees, will leave you well-positioned to address the pressing issues facing our nation's immigration system, many of which have been significantly worsened by the Trump Administration's harmful policies.\r\nThe task of the incoming Biden-Harris Administration will be, as the President-elect often states, to restore the soul of the nation, which is urgently needed in the sphere of immigration policy. We write today to reiterate our support for immediate action to protect the hundreds of thousands of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients whose continued lawful status in the country remains in jeopardy as a result of the Trump Administration'sefforts to terminate their protections and to urge you to promptly issue additional TPS designations and redesignations based upon a sober assessment of country conditions and an exercise of your clear statutory authority. We are pleased that President-elect Biden has pledged to grant TPS to Venezuelans already in the United States, something for which we have advocated. It is critical, especially during the ongoing public health and economic crises brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, for the Biden-Harris Administration to act quickly to provide clarity and long-term stability to TPS recipients in our communities.\r\nOver the past four years, the Trump Administration moved to terminate TPS for recipients from six nations: El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, and Sudan.President-elect Biden decried these decisions as having been politically-motivateda finding supported by a report prepared by the minority staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and by the federal district court in Ramos v. Nielsen that initially blocked several terminations from taking effect. Only by virtue of litigation that remains pending have these designations remained in place, but the success of that litigation is now in doubt, and the continued fear and uncertainty experienced by TPS recipients are very real. While the Trump Administration, as a result of the outstanding court cases, recently extended TPS and associated work authorization documents for these individuals until October 4, 2021, even that brief reprieve could be taken away from many of these individuals if a court ruling comes soon.\r\nTPS recipients from these six countries represent approximately 400,000 residents and over 97 percent of all TPS recipients nationwide. We are proud to represent over 58,000 TPS recipients in the National Capitol region alone. Additionally, approximately 63,100 U.S. citizen children of TPS recipients, many of whom are school-aged, live in our region.We cannot overstate the importance of our desire to protect those American children from the brutal choice they and their families will face if the Trump Administration's terminations are permitted to go into effect. Their parents will immediately lose their permission to work. And each child will be forced to either separate from their parents or be uprooted from the lives they have built in thistheir owncountry.In Virginia and Maryland alone, an estimated 13,300 TPS holders work in industries that DHS deems essential critical infrastructure including health care, agriculture, and manufacturing.These individuals have worked alongside other Americans at great risk to themselves and their family members to help keep the country running, and they will continue to play an important role in the recovery and rebuilding ahead.\r\nThe incoming Biden-Harris Administration has promised to immediately review Temporary Protected Status for vulnerable populations who cannot find safety in their countries due to violence or disaster. Additionally, the new administration has promoted a pathway to citizenship through legislative immigration reform for TPS and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients. While we share the Biden-Harris Administration's desire for a comprehensive review of TPS policy and pathways to citizenship, we also urge you to take immediate executive actions to provide stability for TPS recipients and their families in the U.S. weathering the public health and economic crises brought on by COVID-19.\r\nFirst, we respectfully request that the Biden-Harris Administrationissue a notice in the Federal Register on January 20, 2021, vacating the Trump Administration's termination decisions for all six nations and automatically extending current protections, including Employment Authorization Documents, while committing to conduct new fact-based assessments of country conditions required by law. Decisions regarding whether to extend, redesignate, or terminate protections for each of these countries must be made based upon the facts and the law. We also encourage you to consider granting DED to nationals of these countries, if necessary, as a way to ensure continuity of protections in the interim.\r\nSecond, in connection with the decision to review country conditions anew, we respectfully request that the Biden-Harris Administration promptly redesignate El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, for TPSand issue a new TPS designation for Guatemalaas a result of the devastation left behind by Hurricanes Eta and Iota. The economic damage to these countries from these two unprecedented hurricanes is projected to far surpass the damage caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1998 on which the current designations for Honduras and Nicaragua are based. Widespread flooding and landslides caused substantial damage to critical infrastructure, housing, livelihoods, and food security, and weakened each country's public health infrastructure at a time when they were already struggling to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. The governments of Honduras and Guatemala already have made formal requests for TPSa pre-condition for designations under Section 244(b)(1)(B)but the extraordinary and temporary conditions that make it impossible for these four countries to safely accept the return of their nationals more than justifies designations under Section 244(b)(1)(C), which does not require a request from a foreign government.\r\nAs the new administration works to fulfill its promise of sending an immigration reform bill to Congress within its first 100 days, we urge you to consult the models of the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act, as well as the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and in Emergency (SECURE) Act. Both bills include pathways towards lawful permanent residency for TPS recipients.\r\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the reality that millions of immigrants, both documented and undocumented, work alongside other Americans every day to keep the country going, and their work and contributions will be no less important as we begin to turn the corner and work toward a national recovery that is strong, resilient, and equitable. This is true of more than 131,000 TPS holders who are serving in jobs essential to the nation's critical infrastructure. As we overcome this crisis, we owe a debt of gratitude to these communities that we can begin to pay by extending citizenship to those who have dutifully served their neighbors in a time of crisis. We commit to working with you to achieve that goal. Thank you for your time and consideration.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-on-the-solarwinds-hack-that-has-compromised-u-s-federal-agencies", "Warner on the SolarWinds Hack that has Compromised U.S. Federal Agencies", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and Co-Chair of the Senate Cybersecurity Caucus, released the following statement:\r\nThe SolarWinds hack is a devastating breach of U.S. networks and once again shows that the President and the White House are not taking this issue seriously enough. An incident of this magnitude and lasting impact requires an engaged and public response by the U.S. government, led by a President who understands the significance of this intrusion and who is actively marshaling a domestic remediation strategy and an international response.\r\nAs we learn about the wider impact of this malign effort  with the potential for wider compromise of critical global technology vendors and their products  it is essential that we see an organized and concerted federal response. It is extremely troubling that the President does not appear to be acknowledging, much less acting upon, the gravity of this situation.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-portman-blumenthal-grassley-urge-lighthizer-to-not-include-tech-liability-shield-in-us-uk-trade-agreement", "Warner, Portman, Blumenthal, Grassley Urge Lighthizer to Not Include Tech Liability Shield in US-UK Trade Agreement", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Rob Portman (R-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Charles E. Grassley (R-IA) sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Robert Lighthizer, urging the Trump Administration to refrain from including sweeping liability protection language modeled on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996 in a trade agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom.\r\nWe are optimistic that a new trade agreement with the United Kingdom will ensure fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade. But we want to note that we have concerns with the inclusion of safe harbor language modeled on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Actof 1996,wrote the Senators. Including a safe harbor clause in any future trade agreements will further allocate more power to companies at the expense of individuals.\r\nThey continued,Congress can and should debate about Section 230 and how it has enabled platforms to turn a blind eye as their platforms are used to facilitate discrimination, cyber-stalking, terrorism, online frauds, and more. We urge USTR to refrain from including this provision in this and future free trade agreements until that debate has concluded.\r\nA copy of the letter isavailablehereand text can be foundbelow.\r\n\r\nDear Ambassador Lighthizer:\r\nWe support strengthening trade relations between the United States and the United Kingdom through a potential free trade agreement. That relationship would not be improved, however, by a trade agreement that includes safe harbor language similar to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996.\r\nAs an initial matter, Congress is not requesting, let alone requiring, the Administration to include this type of liability protection in our trade agreements. Trade promotion authority, which establishes the United States' negotiating objectives for trade agreements, calls for recogniz[ing] the significance of the internet as a trading platform in international commerce  not for providing blanket immunity to bad actors because the wrongful conduct took place on the internet. Moreover, there is no reason to believe that such safe harbor language actually facilitates U.S. trade policy interests, particularly with respect to a country like the United Kingdom that has a strong rule of law tradition. Instead, the blanket immunity provided by measures like Section 230 allows platforms to escape liability for directly enabling heinous conduct such as online frauds, cyber-stalking, terrorism, and child abuse.Not surprisingly, neither the U.S. Congress nor the UK Parliament are seeking to export this type of immunity. Instead, they are undertaking vigorous debates regarding the proper oversight, transparency, and effective management of digital communications technologies.\r\nDomestically, there is bipartisan consensus around the need to address illegal behavior online. Many Members of Congress, as well as the Department of Justice,have offered bills to reform Section 230.The United Kingdom unveiled its long-awaited Online Harms regulation, which would create a new regulatory framework to address unlawful and harmful online content. In parallel, the United Kingdom also passed a law last year that, once fully implemented, will establish a code of practice to protect children from exposure to harmful online content.\r\nCongress passed Section 230 as part of wider legislation in 1996. The internet has changed dramatically since then and, accordingly, Section 230 has not aged well. As legislators proceed to review and examine the issues surrounding internet platform liability, it is unnecessaryand inappropriateto tie their hands by making Section 230-style immunity an international obligation of our respective countries.\r\nWe remain excited by the opportunities presented by a new trade agreement with the United Kingdom. We want our Special Relationship to be as strong economically as it is politically. But inclusion of a safe harbor clause in either negotiations or a final agreement is frankly unhelpful to achieving that goal. Thank you for your attention to this matter.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-more-than-18-million-in-federal-funds-to-boost-economic-independence-in-virginia-", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $1.8 Million in Federal Funds to Boost Economic Independence in Virginia", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 17, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $1.8 Million in Federal Funds to Boost Economic Independence in Virginia  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $1,879,967 in federal funding to help Virginians in 19 localities reduce their dependency on federal assistance and rental subsidies. The funding, awarded throughthe Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program atthe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will help connect Virginia families to public and private resources that help them increase their earned income and transition to more stable housing.\r\nThese funds will empower Virginia families by providing educational opportunities, job training, and counseling to help them make lasting progress towards economic independence, said the Senators. We applaud the Department of Housing and Urban Development for taking this approach to give Virginians the tools they need to increase their income and move up the economic ladder.\r\nThe funding will be distributed as follows:\r\n \r\nAlexandria Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $78,659;\r\nBristol Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $49,627;\r\nChesapeake Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $167,400;\r\nCity of Roanoke Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $151,470;\r\nCity of Virginia Beach Department ofHousing: $56,347;\r\nLoudoun County: $74,080;\r\nDanville Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $24,818;\r\nFairfax County Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $152,078;\r\nFranklin Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $60,000;\r\nHampton Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $60,152;\r\nHarrisonburg Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $35,103;\r\nHopewell Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $72,000;\r\nJames City County Office of Housing & Community Development: $28,500;\r\nNewport News Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $112,031;\r\nNorfolk Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $360,000;\r\nPortsmouth Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $226,656;\r\nRichmond Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $72,000;\r\nSuffolk Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $52,368;\r\nWaynesboro Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $48,638.\r\n \r\nThe FSS program helps HUD-assisted families increase their earned income and reduce their dependency on federal assistance and rental subsidies.Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) work in collaboration with a Program Coordinating Committee (PCC) to secure commitments of public and private resources for the operation of the FSS program, to develop the PHA's FSS Action Plan (the FSS policy framework), and to implement the program.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/senate-approves-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-federal-financial-management", "Senate Approves Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Federal Financial Management", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  The United States Senate this week approved the CFO Vision Act of 2020, S. 3287, legislationby Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Senate Budget Committee Chairman Mike Enzi (R-WY) to strengthen federal financial management. The bipartisan bill would update the Chief Financial Officers (CFO) Act of 1990. That law established a financial management leadership structure, provided for long-range planning, and required audited financial statements.\r\nHomeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Ron Johnson (R-WI) and Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI), as well as Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), David Perdue (R-GA), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA) and Mike Braun (R-IN) also cosponsored the CFO Vision Act. The Data Coalition, Citizens Against Government Waste, the Project on Government Oversight, National Taxpayers Union, Truth in Accounting, R Street Institute, Taxpayers for Common Sense, Americans for Prosperity, Government Accountability Project and Grant Thornton, among others, have endorsed the legislation.\r\nIt's been 30 years since theChief Financial Officers (CFO) Actwas signed into law, equipping our federal agencies with critical financial management tools. However, since its enactment three decades ago, there has been a growing need to modernize these processes to meet the challenges of today and improve government-wide financial management,said Sen. Warner.I'm pleased the Senate passed our bipartisanCFO Vision Actto help federal agencies improve their financial management, and ultimately boost performance through more informed strategic policy decision making. Most importantly, it will help renew Americans' trust that their government is making smart, informed decisions about how we use taxpayer dollars.\r\nThis important legislation, which modernizes federal financial management, will help ensure the federal government's financial information is complete, reliable, timely and consistent,said Chairman Enzi. Most importantly, the bill will allow Congress to make informed decisions about the financing, management, and evaluation of federal agencies and programs to see what is working and what is not. This will ultimately lead to better budgeting now and in the future. The goal is to ensure hardworking Americans that lawmakers are making critical and informed decisions about the best use of taxpayer funds. I hope the House will quicklytake up and pass this legislation, which represents good-government policy to update our existing fiscal controls.\r\nThe bill would:\r\nStandardize CFO responsibilitiesacross government by helping to enhance strategic decision-making, and correct inconsistencies;\r\nProvide deputy CFOs with sufficient authorityto ensure continuity in agency financial management operations when CFO vacancies occur;\r\nRevise government-wide and agency-level financial management planning requirementsby requiring the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to update the government's financial plan every four years and provide annual status updates. Additionally, the bill would require the government-wide plan to include actions for improving financial management systems, strengthening the federal financial management workforce, and better linking performance and cost information for decision-making;\r\nDevelop a broader set of key selected financial management performance-based metricsby requiring OMB to develop a plan to determine the status and progress agencies are making towards achieving cost-effective and efficient government operations. The bill would also require that information be included in the government-wide and agency-level financial management plans and status reports; and\r\nStrengthen internal controls by requiring agency management to identify key financial management informationneeded for effective financial management and decision making. The bill would also require agencies to annually assess and report on the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting and other key financial management information.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-joins-menendez-brown-warren-in-slamming-implementation-of-trump-s-executive-order-prohibiting-diversity-and-inclusion-trainings", "Warner Joins Menendez, Brown, Warren in Slamming Implementation of Trumps Executive Order Prohibiting Diversity and Inclusion Trainings", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-Va.) joined Sens. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) opposing the implementation of President Trump's recent Executive Order prohibiting federal agencies, contractors and grant recipients from using workplace diversity and inclusion trainings that promote divisive concepts.\r\nIn an OMB memo, Director Russell Vought said trainings that include terms such as systemic racism, white privilege and unconscious bias are likely included in that prohibition. As a result, many entities, including hospitals, community health centers, colleges and universities, and non-profit organizations that hold contracts with the federal government have cancelled or delayed their trainings.\r\nThe Executive Order and the Administration's implementation actions to date are already stifling much-needed efforts in our states to reduce racial and sex-based discrimination. There is widespread uncertainty regarding the scope of the Executive Order, and some entities have cancelled their diversity and inclusion trainings altogether out of fear of losing federal funding,the Senators wrote in a letter to OMB Director Vought.Given that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has exposed our nation's stark racial inequities and other health disparities, the Administration should focus on reducing racial and sex-based discrimination rather than engaging in ill-informed political stunts. We urge you to immediately halt your efforts to implement this propagandist and deeply harmful Executive Order.\r\nThe lawmakers pointed out that legitimate diversity and inclusion training would not promote repugnant ideas such as the inherent superiority' of a particular race and that a training that promoted those ideas are already illegal under longstanding anti-discrimination laws. The Senators then slammed the Administration for showing a complete disregard and misunderstanding of the racial equity movements in the country.\r\nHowever, by equating the acknowledgement of unconscious bias or systemic racism with claims of racial superiority, the Administration is purposefully sowing confusion and fear about our country's growing diversity and recent political movements in support of racial equity,the lawmakers wrote.By creating vague and illogical requirements, the Administration is effectively discouraging entities from offering diversity and inclusion trainings altogether, which we fear is the underlying goal of this misguided effort.\r\nThe letter was also signed by Sens. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.).\r\nA copy of the letter can be foundhereand below.\r\n\r\nDear Mr. Vought,\r\nWe write today to express our profound opposition to President Trump's recent Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping. The Executive Order and the Administration's implementation actions to date are already stifling much-needed efforts in our states to reduce racial and sex-based discrimination. There is widespread uncertainty regarding the scope of the Executive Order, and some entities have cancelled their diversity and inclusion trainings altogether out of fear of losing federal funding. Given that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has exposed our nation's stark racial inequities and other health disparities, the Administration should focus on reducing racial and sex-based discrimination rather than engaging in ill-informed political stunts. We urge you to immediately halt your efforts to implement this propagandist and deeply harmful Executive Order.\r\nOn September 22, 2020, President Trump issued Executive Order 13950, which claims to combat offensive and anti-American race and sex stereotyping and scapegoating by prohibiting federal agencies, contractors, and grant recipients from using workplace training programs that promote divisive concepts. According to the Executive Order, such concepts include that one race or sex is inherently superior to another race or sex and that an individual should be discriminated against or receive adverse treatment solely or partly because of his or her race or sex. In your September 28, 2020 memorandum instructing the heads of executive departments and agencies on implementation, you stated that the Executive Order likely prohibits trainings that use terms such as systemic racism, white privilege, and unconscious bias.\r\nLegitimate diversity and inclusion training for federal employees, contractors, or federally supported entities would not promote repugnant ideas such as the inherent superiority of a particular race  and in fact such a training would already be illegal under longstanding anti-discrimination laws. However, by equating the acknowledgement of unconscious bias or systemic racism with claims of racial superiority, the Administration is purposefully sowing confusion and fear about our country's growing diversity and recent political movements in support of racial equity. By creating vague and illogical requirements, the Administration is effectively discouraging entities from offering diversity and inclusion trainings altogether, which we fear is the underlying goal of this misguided effort. Additionally, the Executive Order is unclear about its applicability to federal grantees, creating widespread uncertainty among state governments and other federal grant recipients.\r\nIndeed, the Executive Order and your subsequent memorandum have exerted a chilling effect on both federal agencies and the many entities in our states that receive federal funding. The Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services halted all diversity and inclusion trainings for managers and employees. The Health Resources and Services Administration has reportedly frozen funding for some state-run implicit bias trainings for hospitals and community health centers. Some colleges and universities paused or cancelled their diversity and inclusion trainings and other diversity-focused events out of fear of jeopardizing their federal funding. Companies and non-profit organizations that hold contracts with the federal government cancelled or delayed their trainings.\r\nBy continuing to implement this misguided policy during the final days of President Trump's Administration, your agency is discouraging and needlessly politicizing critical efforts to end racial and sex-based discrimination. Once again, we urge you to immediately cease implementing this illogical and harmful Executive Order. Thank you for your prompt consideration of this urgent matter no later than December 23, 2020.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-announce-more-than-1-8-million-in-federal-funds-to-boost-economic-independence-in-va", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $1.8 Million in Federal Funds to Boost Economic Independence in VA", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $1,879,967 in federal funding to help Virginians in 19 localities reduce their dependency on federal assistance and rental subsidies. The funding, awarded throughthe Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program atthe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will help connect Virginia families to public and private resources that help them increase their earned income and transition to more stable housing.\r\nThese funds will empower Virginia families by providing educational opportunities, job training, and counseling to help them make lasting progress towards economic independence, said the Senators. We applaud the Department of Housing and Urban Development for taking this approach to give Virginians the tools they need to increase their income and move up the economic ladder.\r\nThe funding will be distributed as follows:\r\n \r\nAlexandria Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $78,659;\r\nBristol Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $49,627;\r\nChesapeake Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $167,400;\r\nCity of Roanoke Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $151,470;\r\nCity of Virginia Beach Department ofHousing: $56,347;\r\nLoudoun County: $74,080;\r\nDanville Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $24,818;\r\nFairfax County Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $152,078;\r\nFranklin Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $60,000;\r\nHampton Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $60,152;\r\nHarrisonburg Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $35,103;\r\nHopewell Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $72,000;\r\nJames City County Office of Housing & Community Development: $28,500;\r\nNewport News Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $112,031;\r\nNorfolk Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $360,000;\r\nPortsmouth Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $226,656;\r\nRichmond Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $72,000;\r\nSuffolk Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $52,368;\r\nWaynesboro Redevelopment & Housing Authority: $48,638.\r\n \r\nThe FSS program helps HUD-assisted families increase their earned income and reduce their dependency on federal assistance and rental subsidies.Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) work in collaboration with a Program Coordinating Committee (PCC) to secure commitments of public and private resources for the operation of the FSS program, to develop the PHA's FSS Action Plan (the FSS policy framework), and to implement the program.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-leads-colleagues-in-urging-relief-for-foster-youth-facing-unique-covid-19-challenges", "Warner Leads Colleagues in Urging Relief for Foster Youth Facing Unique COVID-19 Challenges", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) led Sens.Ron Wyden (D-OR), Angus King (I-ME), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), andCory Booker (D-NJ) in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide relief for young people in the foster care system as they continue to face a number of unique challenges as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.In a letter to Assistant Secretary Lynn Johnson, the Senators asked that HHS work with states to extend relief to foster families and implement temporary and long-term changes to help foster youth weather this crisis and secure a better future.\r\nAlmost all families in the United States have had to make significant adjustments in their daily lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for the children and young adults in our nation's foster care system, periods of change and adjustment are not new,wrote the Senators.Foster youth have survived a lifetime of uncertainty before and after entering foster care. The serious health challenges and economic downturn brought by the COVID-19 pandemic have merely exacerbated existing challenges faced by the approximately 424,000 children in the foster care system and the more than 20,400 young adults whoage out'of foster care each year.\r\nAs of December10, 2020,over 70million applications for unemployment benefits had been filed since March 21, 2020. Given this high unemployment ratethe highest we have seen in the U.S. in recent memorywe are increasingly concerned about the potentially dire consequences foster youth may face during the economic recession brought on by the pandemic,they continued.Even before the public health emergency, only about half of youth aging out of the foster care system each year were anticipated to have some form of gainful employment by the age of 24. We believe that if temporary changes are made to strengthen support and resources for foster youth, they will be better equipped to pursue their goals and become active members of our nation's workforce.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators expressed particular concern about the impact of the digital divide on foster youth, who often lack the proper equipment and internet services needed to participate in virtual learning. Specifically, the Senators noted findings from a report indicating that only 21 percent of foster youth have regular access to a computer, with that number dipping as low as five percent for foster youth in rural settings.\r\nSpecifically, the Senators asked HHS to:\r\n \r\nContinue to encourage states that have not previously exercised the title IV-E program option to extend foster care programs and extend Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood Program (Chafee Program) services until age 23\r\nDirect guidance to states regarding additional payments to foster care families and providers as part of states' response to COVID-19\r\nProvide a temporary moratorium on work and study requirements for foster youth during the pandemic\r\n \r\n \r\nAllow title IV-B funds to be used to provide internet and other technology to vulnerable foster youth and families\r\n \r\n \r\nWork with states to address the impact of the digital divide on foster youth\r\n \r\nAs Governor and during his time in the Senate, Sen. Warner has been a longtime champion for increased access to broadband and measures to help address the digital divide. In March,he led 17 of his colleagues inurgingmajor internet service providers to take steps to accommodate the incoming unprecedented reliance on telepresenceservices. After this effort, a number of majorinternetserviceprovidersannouncedthe adoption of practices to better accommodate the use of remote technologies.Earlier this year, Sen. Warner alsointroduced legislationto help ensure adequate homeinternetconnectivity for K-12 students during COVID-19. He has alsopushed the FCCto ensure that millions of Americans are made aware of their eligibility for the FCC's Lifeline program  the primary federal program charged with helping low-income families obtain broadband and telephoneservices. Most recently, hecalled onthesevenlargestinternetserviceproviders(ISPs) to do their part to limit the economic and social disruption caused by COVID-19 and help ensure that children are able to meaningfully participate in their education.\r\nA copy of the letter is availablehere and text can be foundbelow.\r\n\r\nDear Assistant Secretary Johnson: \r\nWe write today in support of children and youth in the foster care system across the country as they face additional challenges due to the economic and health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the unprecedented and long-term economic and public health consequences of the pandemic, we ask that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provide relief for those currently in the foster care system and those transitioning out of foster care to maximize future opportunities for these young people.\r\nAlmost all families in the United States have had to make significant adjustments in their daily lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for the children and young adults in our nation's foster care system, periods of change and adjustment are not new. Foster youth have survived a lifetime of uncertainty before and after entering foster care. The serious health challenges and economic downturn brought by the COVID-19 pandemic have merely exacerbated existing challenges faced by the approximately 424,000 children in the foster care system and the more than 20,400 young adults who age out of foster care each year.[1] For this reason, we ask that you make both temporary and long-term changes to act in the best interest of the future of our nation's foster youth.\r\nAs of December 10, 2020, over 70 million applications for unemployment benefits had been filed since March 21, 2020.[2] Given this high unemployment ratethe highest we have seen in the U.S. in recent memorywe are increasingly concerned about the potentially dire consequences foster youth may face during the economic recession brought on by the pandemic. Even before the public health emergency, only about half of youth aging out of the foster care system each year were anticipated to have some form of gainful employment by the age of 24.[3] We believe that if temporary changes are made to strengthen support and resources for foster youth, they will be better equipped to pursue their goals and become active members of our nation's workforce.\r\nWe are also concerned that foster youth are especially harmed by the growing digital divide caused by the pandemic. According to a report conducted by iFoster, only about 5% of youth in foster care in rural settings and 21% of youth in foster care in urban settings have regular access to a computer.[4] For many young people in the foster care system, working and learning virtually is near impossible without access to the proper equipment and internet services.\r\nWe respectfully ask that you continue to encourage states to take full advantage of existing flexibilities and make additional changes to best support foster youth:\r\n \r\nContinue to encourage states that have not previously exercised the title IV-E program option to extend foster care programs and extend Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood Program (Chafee Program) services until age 23. We appreciate that you have encouraged Child Welfare Directors in states that have not exercised the title IV-E program option to serve youth up to age 21 to do so during the pandemic. Extended foster care payments are essential for ensuring the financial stability of our nation's foster youth as they transition out of the system. During these unprecedented times, we also encourage the Administration to continue to encourage states to extend Chafee Program assistance until age 23 to achieve consistency of support after the public health declaration. \r\n \r\n \r\nDirect guidance to states regarding additional payments to foster care families and providers as part of states' response to COVID-19. In order to ensure stability for foster youth, we need to ensure that foster parents have the resources to weather the economic effects of the crisis and confront the day-to-day challenges of caring for children during the pandemic. In this effort, certain states have already provided one-time payments to foster care families. We ask that the Administration direct guidance to states on their existing authority to issue relief payments to foster families and providers to ease the burden of the pandemic. \r\n \r\n \r\nProvide a temporary moratorium on work and study requirements for foster youth during the pandemic. Public health guidelines during the pandemic have made physically going to work or school impossible for many.[5] COVID-19 has highlighted the inequities of access to reliable high-speed internet and devices. In fact, foster youth face multiple barriers trying to work or study remotely. They may lack a laptop or desktop computer, have slow speeds, or no internet altogether. We encourage the Administration to lift work and study requirements now until at least 180 days after the public health crisis ends, so foster youth are not punished for circumstances outside their control. Additionally, if you determine you do not have the authority to make this change, we ask you to promptly inform the Committees of jurisdiction in Congress, the Committee on Finance in the Senate and the Committee on Ways and Means in the House. \r\n \r\n \r\nAllow title IV-B funds to be used to provide internet and other technology to vulnerable foster youth and families. We appreciate the Children's Bureau letter permitting the purchase of cell phones as an allowable expense under title IV-B and/or the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood.[6] To ensure that foster youth do not continue to fall behind in meeting their work and education obligations, we ask that allowable expenses be expanded to include laptop computers, tablets, and internet access for children and families in the child welfare system. \r\n \r\n \r\nWork with states to address the impact of the digital divide on foster youth. Beyond waiving work and study requirements for foster youth during the pandemic, we ask that you consider long-term solutions to help foster youth facing significant technology-access challengesthe consequences of which have been intensified by the pandemic. We ask that you work with states on state-specific plans to ensure foster youth have the resources necessary to participate in online instruction or work virtually. \r\n \r\nWe appreciate your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to working together on behalf of our nation's foster youth moving forward.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-commission-selection-of-barbara-johns-to-represent-virginia-in-us-capitol", "Kaine Statement on Commission Selection of Barbara Johns to Represent Virginia in U.S. Capitol", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 16, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement on Commission Selection of Barbara Johns to Represent Virginia in U.S. Capitol \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement today upon the Commission on Historical Statues' selection of Barbara Johns to represent Virginia in the U.S. Capitol Building:\r\nBrave, patriotic, and pioneering, Barbara Johns represents the best of Virginia. Her statue will serve as a testament to the power of young people who stand up for themselves, their peers, and their rights under the Constitution. And a little child shall lead them.'\r\nWhen Kaine was Governor, he unveiled the Civil Rights Memorial featuring Barbara Johns and others on Virginia Capitol Square.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/us-lawmakers-press-prison-authorities-on-inmate-covid-19-vaccination-plans", "U.S. lawmakers press prison authorities on inmate COVID-19 vaccination plans", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - More than two dozen members of the U.S. Congress on Wednesday called on federal prison and health officials for details about how inmates will be vaccinated for COVID-19, questioning whether the most vulnerable prisoners will have priority access.\nIn a letter to Federal Bureau of Prisons director Michael Carvajal and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention chief Dr. Robert Redfield, 26 lawmakers, led by Democratic Representative Bobby Scott, expressed concerns about the prison system's existing plan for vaccine distribution.\nWe are deeply concerned that the current plan places the most vulnerable incarcerated individuals ... behind incarcerated individuals in minimum security facilities the Congress members' letter said. It said that under present plans, prisoners who are in open bay housing would get the virus before prisoners under tighter incarceration.\nThe Bureau of Prisons did not immediately respond to a request for comment.\nCOVID-19 is spreading four times faster in prisons than the general public, the letter said, adding that the virus is moving through the prison population three times faster than it did on commercial cruise ships at the start of the pandemic.\nThe pandemic has already killed more than 300,000 people across the United States and infection rates have hit record highs with the return of cold weather, even as the first, limited round here of vaccinations began this week.\nPrisoners and prison employees are at high risk of transmitting the virus due to close conditions.\nThe letter asks for details on how prison authorities and public health officials are collaborating to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines are expeditiously administered to prisoners and requests details for when prison staff, prisoners in high-risk infection categories and then all individuals now held in federal prisons will get vaccinations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-announces-winner-of-congressional-app-challenge", "Scott Announces Winner of Congressional App Challenge", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "NEWPORT NEWS, VA  Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) announced the winners of the annual Congressional App Challenge in Virginia's Third Congressional District. AbdallaElrahhal, a junior atDenbigh High School andNew Horizons Regional Education Center,was selected as the winner. Elrahhal submittedSpeedyCPR,an app designed to call 911whiledisplayingvideo instructionsand demonstrationsforperforming cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).\nI participated in the Congressional App Challenge so I could challenge myself and see if I could accomplish the goal, Elrahhal stated. \nThis year over 6,000 students across the United States participated in the2020challenge.These students created and submitted 1,851 apps. In all,308 Members of Congress hosted Congressional App Challenges.\nWe should constantly be investing in the next generation of leaders and innovators said Congressman Scott. As the Chairman of the Education and Labor Committee, I understand that it is essential for our students to develop the necessary skills and interest in STEM fields. The Congressional App Challenge is a great opportunity for students interested in these fields to showcase their talents by competing in this national event.\nThe second place winner wasZianZhou, ajunior at New Horizon's Governor's School for Science and Technology. His app,foCusis abrowser extension which blocksselected apps to limit distractions andincrease productivity.The third place winners were freshmanDavidGoodwinand sophomores John Pegram and Michael CheeverofBethel High School. Their app, PathwayFinder, helpsincoming and freshmenstudents learn about theschool's academic programs by matching their interests to related programs.\nAll participants in the district were recognized during a virtual awards ceremony attended by Hampton and Newport News elected and schoolofficials.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-leads-25-members-urging-trump-administration-to-prioritize", "Scott Leads 25 Members Urging Trump Administration to Prioritize Vulnerable Individuals in Federal Prisons for Vaccine Distribution", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) led 25 Members of Congress in sending a letter to Robert Redfield, the Director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Michael Carvajal, the Director for the Federal Bureau of Prisons, urging them to include incarcerated individuals as a priority population in the COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan.\nThe national vaccine distribution strategy will place competing priorities on our collective resources and public health system, the Members wrote. However, ignoring the growing COVID-19 infection crisis in American jails and prisons would be a dire mistake and undermine any national effort to contain the virus. COVID-19 is spreading four times faster in prisons than the general public.\nThe challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic tests the foundational principles of our justice and carceral system, the Members continued. The legal authority the government claims when it deprives an individual of liberty is rooted in the Constitution and must conform to the requirements of due process. Individuals serving a sentence or awaiting trial should not be left to the arbitrary and capricious punishment of a virus or suffer a death sentence.\nThe current plan allows for vaccination of prison staff before the vaccination of prisoners with pre-existing conditions that place them at higher risk of dying from COVID-19.\nA difficult path lies ahead, but the most effective and humane method to deal with this crisis is to vaccinate every incarcerated individual and staff member within a prison or jail facility and expand the use of compassionate release to those individuals who present a low risk to public safety and are vulnerable to infection, the Members stated. Many incarcerated individuals in the federal system are in a high-risk category for infection due to chronic medical conditions and many of these same individuals could be safely released, so that only those in close confinement would receive a priority vaccination.=\nFull text of the letter can be found HERE and below.\nDear Director Redfield and Director Carvajal,\nAs you consider guidelines for the allocation of theinitial doses ofCOVID19 vaccine,we urge you to include incarcerated individuals as a priority population.The national vaccine distribution strategy will place competing prioritiesonour collective resourcesand public health system. However, ignoring the growing COVID-19 infection crisis inAmerican jails and prisonswould be a dire mistake and undermine any national effort tocontain the virus. COVID-19 is spreadingfourtimes faster in prisonsthan the general public. To put the matter in perspective, the virus is moving through the prison population three times fasterthan itdidon commercial cruise shipsat the start of the pandemic.\nThe Bureau of Prisonshasprovidedinformalinformationregarding thevaccine distribution plan.We aredeeply concerned that the current plan placesthe most vulnerableincarcerated individuals who have a cancer diagnosis, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart conditions, compromised immune systems, sickle cell, diabetes, and individuals 65 years or older in priority level 3behind incarcerated individuals in minimum security facilities who are in open bay housing and are currently listed in priority group 2. Incarcerated individuals with these types ofmedicalconditions are at a high risk ofcomplications if theycontract COVID-19 as it spreads through federal prisonsyet are slated to receive the vaccine after prison staffers in phase 1 and other incarcerated individuals listed in phase2.\nOutbreaks in prisons are difficult to control due to the conditions of confinement.Incarcerated individualshave been unable to protect themselves from infectionthrough social distancingandtheyoftenlack adequate access to handwashing and sanitizing facilities. Without a national testing strategy,local sheriffs and prison officials have been unable totest andquarantinenewlyarrestedindividualsand intra-prison transfers are stilloccurring. The result has been soaring infection rates withinprisonfacilitiesand virus hotspots in surrounding communities.Over 250,000ofthe more thanonemillion people in prison havefallen ill or been killed by thisvirus. The current vaccine distribution plan prioritizes staff members who enter and exit prison facilities daily but fails to recognize that a newly sentenced individual orintra prison transfereecan also introduce the virus into a prison facilitybecause current screening methods have proven inadequateforasymptomatic carriersof COVID-19.\nThe challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic tests the foundational principles of our justice and carceral system. The legal authoritythe government claims when itdeprives an individual of libertyisrooted in the Constitution andmustconform to the requirements ofdueprocess.Individuals serving a sentence or awaiting trial should not be left to the arbitrary and capricious punishment of a virus or suffer a death sentence. To deny priority vaccination to individuals in forced confinement is to abdicate our responsibility at a time when the publichas called for a reckoning of the criminal justice system and racial injustice.\nA difficult path lies ahead, but the most effective and humane methodto dealwith this crisis is to vaccinate every incarcerated individual and staff member within a prison or jail facilityandexpand the use of compassionate releaseto thoseindividuals whopresent alow risk to public safety andarevulnerable to infection. Many incarcerated individuals in the federal system are in a high-risk category for infection due tochronic medical conditions and many of these same individuals could be safely released,so that only those in close confinement would receive a priority vaccination. However, efforts to release low-risk individualsduring the pandemichavefalteredand resulted in an increase in compassionate release petitions in federal courts. \nIn light ofthis extraordinary crisis,weurge you to use the considerable power and tools at your disposal to curb the extrajudicial death and suffering of those entrusted to your custody. Your departments cannot abdicate your duty to these individuals, their families, and the communities they will return to any longer.Please answer the following questions:\n How is the BOP working with the CDC to create and implement a plan to ensure that the vaccine will reach incarcerated persons expeditiously?\n\tHow are CDC and BOP working together to stop outbreaks among prison populations?\n\tWhen and in what phase of thegeneralvaccine distribution plan will BOP vaccinate the following individuals within its facilities:\n\tprison staff (including guards)?\n\tincarcerated individualsin high-risk infection categories according to CDC guidance and criteria?\n\tall incarcerated individuals currently in BOP facilities?\n We look forward to your prompt response.\nSincerely,\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mceachin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mceachin-launches-fourth-districts-first-digital-year-review", "Rep. McEachin Launches Fourth District's First Digital Year in Review", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "A. McEachin", "M001200", "mceachin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RICHMOND, VA Congressman A. Donald McEachin (VA-04) today announced the release of the Fourth Congressional District's first digital Year in Review. The 2020 Year in Review highlights key priorities, programs and initiatives of the McEachin Congressional office on behalf of Virginians this year.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThe unrelenting challenges of this year have been felt by people across our nation. I am proud of the work my team has accomplished to improve the lives of folks in Virginia's Fourth Congressional District, said Congressman McEachin. Throughout the year I have worked with my colleagues to bring COVID-19 relief to the American people, to address police brutality, to protect our healthcare system from partisan attacks, to improve our education system and to protect our environment for generations to come.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThe digital report recaps the office's efforts in an interactive webpage to provide constituents with an overview of casework and legislative accomplishments alongside stories from constituents reflecting the impact of the office's work for Virginians. Key accomplishments as highlighted in the Fourth District Year in Review include:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t$2 million in earned benefits recovered for Fourth District constituents, including funds recovered from missing Social Security benefits, delayed tax refunds, and incorrect Veterans benefits;\n\t\t\t\t\tMore than 1,000 resolved constituent issues with federal agencies, such as scheduling appointments for disability payment application reviews or helping folks get their Medicare benefits;\n\t\t\t\t\tMore than 150,000constituents reached by Congressman McEachin's telephone town halls and direct mail programs;\n\t\t\t\t\tHouse and Senate passage of H.R. 3847, legislation to rename a post office in Hopewell after Civil Rights leader Reverend Curtis West Harris;\n\t\t\t\t\tIntroduction of numerous pieces of legislation to support, uplift, and improve the lives of people of the Fourth District, including the Great Dismal Swamp National Heritage Area Act, the Protecting our Students in Schools Act of 2020, the Lead-Safe Housing for Kids Act of 2020, the Environmental Justice for All Act; and\n\t\t\t\t\tNearly 3.31 billion in COVID-19 relief delivered to the Commonwealth of Virginia\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tI am proud of the work we have accomplished and committed to doing the work that still stands before us, Congressman McEachin continued. Virginians need additional COVID-19 relief - including direct relief payments. We must vote to fund the government and prepare to keep fighting for constituents in the 117th Congress. I am hopeful that this Year in Review webpage will inform constituents of the ways in which my team and I have been fighting for them this year and demonstrate our dedication to continuing to serve the people of Virginia. It is an honor to serve as your representative in Congress, and I thank my constituents for the everyday opportunities to help make their lives a little easier.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tCongressman McEachin's 2020 Year in Review is available to view on desktop or mobile at: https://mceachin.house.gov/2020-year-review.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-and-murray-trump-administration-s-weak-fiduciary-rule-will-hurt", "Scott and Murray: Trump Administrations Weak Fiduciary Rule Will Hurt Families, Benefit Unscrupulous Financial Advisors", "2020-12-15", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCToday, Congressman Robert C. Bobby\" Scott (VA-03), chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee released the following statement in response to the Department of Labor announcing its final fiduciary rule.\nThis weak rule will hurt workers, retirees, and families across the country by letting unscrupulous financial advisors put their own interests ahead of their clients. People are looking for reliable help as they try to navigate the painful economic fallout of this pandemicbut this rule will make that unbiased help even harder to find. We are going to do everything we can to work with the incoming Biden administration to reverse the damage of President Trump's backwards policies and to strengthen the retirement security of people across the country as they work to weather this crisis.\nScott and Murray have been leading voices against the Trump administration's efforts to weaken the conflict of interest rules protecting families' savings and investments. Theycalled outthe Trump administration for refusing to defend the stronger Obama-era fiduciary standard in court, pressed it to slow down its attempt torushthrough its own weaker rule before stakeholders had the opportunity to weigh in, and led acomment lettercriticizing the Department's rule for reinstating a broken status quo that allows financial advisors to evade their fiduciary duties and denying retirement savers meaningful remedies when they have been harmed.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-government-watchdog-confirms-dol-broke-the-law", "Scott: Government Watchdog Confirms DOL Broke the Law", "2020-12-15", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCChairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (OIG) released the findings of itsinvestigationinto the Department's rulemaking process for its 2017 proposed tip rule. The report found that, among other errors, the Department improperly withheld information regarding the expected impact of the rule on tipped workers. The 2019 proposed tip rule places no limitation on the amount of time a tipped employee can perform related, non-tipped activities and still be paid the subminimum wage.\nThe Department of Labor (DOL) Inspector General confirmed what we have known for years: DOL purposefully withheld data that showed that the 2017 tip rule would have let employers pocket billions in workers' tips.\nNow, the Department is on the verge of finalizing another rule that would cost tipped workers. The Department's 2019 proposal to codify the repeal of the 80/20 rule would allow employers to pay workers a subminimum wage while assigning them work that does not provide them with ample opportunity to earn tips. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that, if finalized, this rule would cost workers more than$700 million each year. The Department is also relying on the same excuses it used in the 2017 rule to withhold the potential economic impacts of the 2019 rule for workers, even while conceding that the rule could reduce the employment of workers, such as dishwashers or busboys, who currently perform non-tipped duties.\nWell before the COVID-19 pandemic, America's tipped workers earned lower wages and experienced poverty at higher rates than non-tipped workers. Now, tipped workers need protections against wage theft more than ever. The Department must uphold its mission to serve our nation's workers by rescinding the Department's 2019 proposed tip rule and supporting legislation to phase out the subminimum wage for tipped workers.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-to-eeoc-chair-dhillon-removing-litigation-authority-from-agency", "Scott to EEOC Chair Dhillon: Removing Litigation Authority from Agency Attorneys Will Delay the Administration of Justice", "2020-12-15", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCToday,Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03)expresseddeep concern to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Chair Janet Dhillonregarding the plan tolimit the EEOC attorneys' authority. Under this proposal, all lawsuits must first be subject to a Commission vote before they can be filed, which could significantly delay and hinder the enforcement of civil rights laws.The Commission attempted the vote in July 2019, but it was ultimately withdrawn.\nThis change will significantly delay the administration of justice. Additionally, taking litigation filing authority away from attorneys familiar with the cases is likely to lead to decisions being made based more on a political agenda rather than the merits of any case,wrote Chairman Scott.\nIn theletter, Chairman Scott requests data and analysisthe Commission used when drafting this proposal;a list of stakeholders consulted; an outline of the process for referring cases under this proposal; and any additional actions the Commission plans to take between now and the end of the year.\nTo read the full letter, clickhere.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402398", "Congressman Griffiths Weekly E-Newsletter 12.14.20", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Candy Apples and Toads\r\nAn analogy I like to use for the legislative process invokes candy apples and toads. Legislation rarely includes only things I like  the candy apples  or omits the things I really dislike  the toads. Considering whether to support a bill usually means weighing whether there are enough candy apples to cover up the bad taste of a few toads.\r\nEnd-of-year legislating usually provides plenty of opportunities to apply this test. As the year draws to a close, Congress once again finds itself closing in on a deadline to fund the Federal Government for the fiscal year that began on October 1.\r\nAs in previous years, we did not need to be in this situation. Federal law prescribes a budget process of individual appropriations bills that should go through regular order at the committee and floor level.\r\nJust following the rules could help us avoid the scramble to resolve everything with one bill that, even if read, Members of Congress rarely get to fully scrutinize before having to give it an up or down vote.\r\nBecause the omnibus bill funding the government for the rest of the fiscal year ending September 30 has not yet been agreed to by negotiators, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) continuing current funding for just one week.\r\nLike omnibuses, I generally do not find CRs to be a proper way to fund the government. But as with any other bill I vote on, I read this CR.\r\nIt included an extension for the Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher program for two years. This program encourages the development of new drugs to treat rare pediatric diseases. The innovation promoted by this program can lead to new treatments that help improve and save the lives of children suffering from rare diseases.\r\nWhile skeptical of CRs, I support the extension of the Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Vouchers, so I voted for this CR. In the best instances, legislation rarely includes everything I want to see or leaves out anything I do not support.\r\nIn this case, extending the program for two years was a candy apple that made voting for the one-week toad of a CR acceptable.\r\nThe Right Way to Legislate on Marijuana\r\nIn my last column, I discussed my opposition to H.R. 3884, a broad bill to legalize marijuana, expunge marijuana convictions, and provide taxpayer support for businesses and individuals associated with the marijuana industry.\r\nIt was a sweeping, partisan effort that made major changes at a time when the Congress should have other priorities. Despite my support for changes to marijuana law, it was the wrong bill at the wrong time.\r\nThe week afterward, the House voted on another bill related to marijuana, my Medical Marijuana Research Act. I believe this was the right approach to marijuana legislation.\r\nThe Medical Marijuana Research Act would ensure a sufficient supply of research-quality marijuana through the National Institute on Drug Abuse Drug Supply Program. It also authorizes more research so that we understand more specifically the medical benefits and side effects of marijuana on the human body. It would also direct the Food and Drug Administration to issue guidelines on the production of marijuana and encourage authorized manufacturers to produce marijuana for the researchers under the law.\r\nI was an original cosponsor of the bill in this Congress, and along with a bipartisan team had introduced it in previous years. Unlike H.R. 3884, it had support that spanned parties and also different views about marijuana legislation. Whether you want marijuana broadly prohibited, broadly legalized, or fall somewhere in between, you should want to see more data about its effects.\r\nBecause of its widespread support, the bill this year had moved through the House Energy and Commerce Committee without opposition and passed on the House floor in the same manner. Its consideration did not take up valuable legislative time in the same way as H.R. 3884.\r\nI was pleased to see the Medical Marijuana Research Act pass the House and hope it will advance into law. It represents the right way to legislate on marijuana  with prudence and based on data.\r\nIf you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website atwww.morgangriffith.house.gov. Also on my website is the latest material from my office, including information on votes recently taken on the floor of the House of Representatives.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-bipartisan-covid-relief-bill-inclusion-of-his-job-training-provisions", "Kaine Statement on Bipartisan COVID Relief Bill, Inclusion of His Job Training Provisions", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 14, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement on Bipartisan COVID Relief Bill, Inclusion of His Job Training Provisions \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kainea member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and co-chair of the Senate Career and Technical Education Caucusreleased the following statement today upon the announcement of a deal on a $748 billion bipartisan coronavirus relief bill:\r\nWhile not perfect, the compromise delivers relief that's far overdue: jobless benefits, small business loans, funds for vaccine distribution and health care providers, housing assistance, food assistance. I applaud Mark Warner and my other friends in the bipartisan Gang of 8 for their diligence in reaching agreement on these items. I'm particularly pleased the package includes provisions of mine to expand assistance to education institutions and students affected by the pandemic and allow states to use relief funds for job training. Americans have already waited too long for this,and we should continue pushing for a compromise on how to spend an additional $160 billion to help people and their communities.If there's any move toward a recess before we pass a COVID package, I will object. We must stay in session until we deliver much needed relief.\r\nModeled after Kaine's Assisting Community Colleges in Educating Skilled Students (ACCESS) to Careers Act, the career training provision of this bill would allow states to use money from their Governor's Emergency Education Relief Funds (created under the CARES Act in March) to support career training programs at community and technical colleges and other institutions of higher education. Funds could also be used to support industry partnerships to inform such programs and to provide support for students who have been affected by the pandemic. Another provisionmodeled after the Coronavirus Relief Flexibility for Students and Institutions Actwould allow colleges to use emergency stabilization funds to cover lost revenue and would make emergency financial aid grants available to a broad group of students with financial need, not just those who have filled out a FAFSA application.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-passing-of-bob-bloxom", "Kaine Statement on Passing of Bob Bloxom", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 14, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement on Passing of Bob Bloxom \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following statement on the passing of Robert Bob Bloxom Sr., who served as Virginia's Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry during Kaine's term as Governor:\r\nBob Bloxom was the epitome of public servantdedicated, kind, devoted to the beautiful Eastern Shore.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-more-than-7-million-to-mitigate-flooding-in-portsmouth", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $7 Million to Mitigate Flooding in Portsmouth", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 14, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $7 Million to Mitigate Flooding in Portsmouth \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C  Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $7,485,000 in federal fundingfromtheU.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)'s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)to construct a new stormwater pump station in the Olde Towne Historic District of Portsmouth. It's estimated that this project will reduce the flooding risk for the entire Olde Towne Historic District, including 210 buildings, and protect an area of approximately 23 acres.\r\nWe're pleased to announce this federal funding to support the construction of a critical flood mitigation project in Portsmouth,said the Senators.Recurrent flooding can have detrimental effects on a region. This project will better protect the treasured Olde Towne Historic District from future flood damage.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-delegate-mamye-e-bacote", "Scott Statement on the Passing of Former Delegate  Mamye E. BaCote", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "NEWPORT NEWS, VA  Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on the passing of former Delegate Mamye E. BaCote:\nI was saddened to learn of the passing of my friend, former Delegate Mamye E. BaCote. She devoted her life to service to our community and the betterment of our society. As a student at Virginia Union University, she helped stage a sit in at an all-white lunchroom to bring attention to the injustices and inequity of segregation. After college, she helped shape young minds as a teacher with Newport News Public Schools and later as an adjunct professor at Hampton University. Outside of the classroom, she ran for elected office and served seven years on the Newport News City Council, and then 12 years representing the 95th district in the Virginia House of Delegates, where she was able to bring about real change for Newport News and Hampton as an active member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.\nThis is a sad day for Newport News and the entire Hampton Roads community. I send my condolences to her family, friends, loved ones, and all of those positively impacted by her life.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-trump-administration-s-final-rules-supporting", "Scott Statement on Trump Administrations Final Rules Supporting Taxpayer-Funded Religious Discrimination", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DC Today, Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after the Departments of Education, Labor, and Health and Human Services  along with several other agencies  finalized a sweeping set of rules that would allow broad religious discrimination against employees, beneficiaries, and students in federally funded programs.\nThe finalization of eight department rules to undermine the rights of employees and beneficiaries of federally funded programs underscores this administration's fundamental misunderstanding of religious liberty.' These final rules are harmful because they could potentially coerce individuals to participate in religious activities in order to receive benefits in some federally funded programs; remove key protections for beneficiaries in every program; and open the door to expansive employment discrimination by religious entities.\nCivil rights laws should protect those who are discriminated againstnot those who are engaged in invidious discrimination. It is shameful that during its final weeks in office, the Trump administration prioritized finalizing policies that will negatively impact programs meant to support underserved Americans, such as seniors, victims of human trafficking, and displaced workers instead of helping them survive this ever-worsening pandemic. Today's announcement is a reflection of this administration's misplaced priorities and distorted view of religious liberty.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-sen-mark-r-warner-on-the-passing-of-mamye-bacote", "Statement of Sen. Mark R. Warner on the Passing of Mamye BaCote", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement on the passing of former Virginia Delegate Mamye BaCote:\r\nMamye was a dear friend and trusted ally when I was Governor. She cared deeply about making sure every Virginian got a fair shot. Mamye was a champion for Virginians and I join her friends, family, and everyone in Newport News and across the Commonwealth in mourning her loss.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-u-s-sen-mark-r-warner-on-emergency-lending-under-the-cares-act", "Statement of U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on the passing of Bob Bloxom", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement on the passing of Robert Bob Bloxom Sr., who served as Virginia's first Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry:\r\nBob Bloxom was a true Virginian who always put the Commonwealth first.\r\nFor years as Governor and afterwards, whenever I was in the Eastern Shore and looking for an applause line, I would always remind folks that I appointed Bob Bloxom as the first Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry. That was always greeted with a round of thundering applause, because he was that well-respected.\r\nI want to offer my sincerest condolences to his wife Pat, his children Lee and Robert Jr. and his four grandchildren.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-colleagues-unveil-details-of-bipartisan-bicameral-covid-19-relief", "Warner, Colleagues Unveil Details of Bipartisan, Bicameral COVID-19 Relief", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, after almost two weeks ofbipartisan frameworknegotiations, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and a group of Democratic and Republican colleagues unveiled bipartisan and bicameral emergency COVID-19 relief legislation to provide urgent relief to struggling American students, families, businesses, workers and health care providers. The release of bipartisan legislative text offers a path forward for congressional action on bipartisan COVID-19 relief after nine months of stalled negotiations between Democrats in the House and Republicans in the Senate and White House.\r\nTheBipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020released today is the result of weeks of negotiations spearheaded by Sen. Warner along with Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rob Portman (R-OH) and Dick Durbin (D-IL).\r\nA dozen Senators usually can't agree on a lunch order, let alone almost a trillion dollars in federal spending  so the fact that we're standing here today with a bipartisan bill is evidence of the urgency,said U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA).I will be the first to admit that this deal is imperfect. But these challenges are simply too urgent to allow politics to interfere. With unemployment and other benefits scheduled to run out just before Christmas, the American people cannot afford for us to wait. After several weeks of work, I hope that this bipartisan bill moves us closer to providing real relief to the American people without further delay.\r\nTheBipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020would provide $748 billion in emergency assistance for the next four months, including:\r\nExtension of all unemployment assistance for 16 weeks, with supplemental $300per week\r\n$300B for another round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans and other small business assistance\r\n$13B for emergency food assistance, including SNAP benefits and funding for food banks\r\n$13B to provide funding to address COVID-related impacts on farmers,ranchers, growers, and fisheries\r\n$25B for emergency rental assistance and extension of nationwide eviction moratoriumthrough January31, 2021\r\nExtension of student loan forbearance through April 1,2021\r\n$35B for healthcare providers\r\n$16B for testing, tracing and vaccine development and distribution\r\n$12B in support for community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs) to help low-income and minority communities withstand the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and respondto this unprecedented economicdownturn\r\n$5B in emergency funding for substance abuse prevention and treatment andmental health\r\n$82B in education funding, including $54 billion for K-12 schools, $20 billion for higher education, and $7.5 billion for the Governor'sFund\r\n$10B to support child care providers struggling due to the COVID-19pandemic\r\n$10B forbroadband, including $6B for state broadband connectivity anddeployment and $3B for educational connectivity and distancelearning\r\n$45B in emergency funding for airlines, airports, buses, Amtrak, and publictransit\r\nIn addition to the $748 billion contained in theBipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act, lawmakers today unveiled a discussion draft of separate legislation providing $160 billion to help states and localities facing record revenue shortfalls due to the pandemic. In order to allow that legislation to reach the floor, Republicans have demanded that any state and local funding be paired with some sort of liability shield to protect businesses from lawsuits related to COVID-19 protections. In today's press conference, Sen. Warner encouraged his colleagues to continue working on a compromise that would provide funding to state and local governments to prevent mass layoffs of teachers, first responders and sanitation workers during a pandemic.\r\nIt will be up to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who controls the Senate floor schedule, to determine if and when the bipartisan relief package might see a vote in the Senate.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-announce-more-than-7-million-to-mitigate-flooding-in-portsmouth", "Warner & Kaine Announce more than $7 Million to Mitigate Flooding in Portsmouth", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C  Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $7,485,000 in federal fundingfromtheU.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)'s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)to construct a new stormwater pump station in the Olde Towne Historic District of Portsmouth. It's estimated that this project will reduce the flooding risk for the entire Olde Towne Historic District, including 210 buildings, and protect an area of approximately 23 acres.\r\nWe're pleased to announce this federal funding to support the construction of a critical flood mitigation project in Portsmouth,said the Senators.Recurrent flooding can have detrimental effects on a region. This project will better protect the treasured Olde Towne Historic District from future flood damage.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-on-ftc-decision-to-launch-sweeping-study-of-major-technology-platforms-data-collection-and-business-practices", "Warner on FTC Decision to Launch Sweeping Study of Major Technology Platforms' Data Collection and Business Practices", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced its decision to conduct a study on the privacy and wider business practices of major technology platforms  a move that Sen. Warner has long advocated:\r\nAs I have impressed upon Chairman Simons in the past, an effort by the FTC to systematically study the data collection and business practices of the largest technology platforms is long overdue. Policymakers and regulators  not to mention consumers  are totally in the dark about how their data is being collected and monetized; about the metrics used to measure their attention, engagement, and value to the platform; and about the ways in which these platforms design their products to maximize data collection, ad revenue, and user engagement. I applaud Chairman Simons and the Commission for this important step in bringing sunlight to what has far too long been an opaque market, vulnerable to abuse, digital ad fraud, and consumer harm.\r\nSen. Warner, a former technology entrepreneur, is one of the leading voices in Congress on technology issues. He has authored and introduced a series of bipartisan bills designed to protect consumers and reduce the power of giant social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Google. One of these bills, theDesigning Accounting Safeguards to Help Broaden Oversight and Regulations on Data (DASHBOARD) Act, would require data-harvesting companies to tell consumers and financial regulators exactly what data they are collecting from consumers and provide granular details about how it is being leveraged by the platform for profit as part of their quarterly financial disclosures. The bipartisanDeceptive Experiences To Online Users Reduction (DETOUR) Actwould prohibit large online platforms from using deceptive user interfaces to trick consumers into handing over their personal data or consenting to unfair terms of service. Additionally, theAugmenting Compatibility and Competition by Enabling Service Switching (ACCESS) Actwould encourage market-based competition to dominant social media platforms by requiring the largest companies to make user data portable  and their services interoperable  with other platforms, and would allow usersto designate a trusted third-party service to manage their privacy andaccount settings, if they sochoose. Since 2016, Sen. Warner has repeatedly encouraged the Commission to take stronger actions to address digital ad fraud, including by better understanding the opaque and concentrated digital advertising market that has turned a blind eye to such activity.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-announces-bipartisan-congressional-committee-surprise-billing", "Scott Announces Bipartisan Congressional Committee Surprise Billing Agreement", "2020-12-12", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DC Key House and Senate Committee leaders announced a bipartisan agreement on legislation to protect patients from surprise medical bills and establish a fair framework to resolve payment disputes between health care providers and health insurance companies.\nThe deal was agreed to by House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Ranking Member Virginia Foxx (R-NC), House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Ranking Member Greg Walden (R-OR), House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) and Ranking Member Kevin Brady (R-TX), and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA).\nWe have reached a bipartisan, bicameral deal in principleto protect patients from surprise medical bills and promote fairness in payment disputes between insurers and providers, without increasing premiums for patients or interfering with strong, state-level solutions already on the books,the bipartisan, bicameral Committee leaders said.Under this agreement, the days of patients receiving devastating surprise out-of-network medical bills will be over. Patients should not be penalized with these outrageous bills simply because they were rushed to an out-of-network hospital or unknowingly treated by an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility. This is a win for patients and their families that will improve America's health care system.\nWe are pleased to share this language for stakeholder feedback and look forward to continuing to work together to finalize and attach this important new patient protection to the end-of-year funding package. We're hopeful this legislation will be signed into law in the coming days so we can give Americans confidence they will no longer receive financially ruinous surprise out-of-network medical bills.\nThe bipartisan, bicameral agreement protects patients and establishes a fair payment dispute resolution process including:\n Holds patients harmless from surprise medical bills, including from air ambulance providers, by ensuring they are only responsible for their in-network cost-sharing amounts, including deductibles, in both emergency situations and certain non-emergency situations where patients do not have the ability to choose an in-network provider.\n\tProhibits certain out-of-network providers from balance billing patients unless the provider gives the patient notice of their network status and an estimate of charges 72 hours prior to receiving out-of-network services and the patient provides consent to receive out-of-network care.\n\tCreates a framework that takes patients out of the middle and allows health care providers and insurers to resolve payment disputes without involving the patient.\n\tUnder the agreement, insurers will make a payment to the provider that is determined either through negotiation between the parties or an independent dispute resolution (IDR) process. There is no minimum payment threshold to enter IDR, and claims may be batched together to ease administrative burdens.\n\tIf the parties choose to utilize the IDR process, both parties would each submit an offer to the independent arbiter. When choosing between the two offers the arbiter is required to consider the median in-network rate, information related to the training and experience of the provider, the market share of the parties, previous contracting history between the parties, complexity of the services provided, and any other information submitted by the parties.Following an IDR process, the party that initiated the dispute may not take the same party to arbitration for the same item or service for 90-days following a determination by the arbitrator. However, all claims that occur during the 90-day period are eligible for IDR after the 90-days.\n\tProvides additional consumer protections when insurance companies change networks, including a transition of care for people with complex care needs and appeal rights for consumers.\n\tEmpowers consumers by providing a true and honest cost estimate that describes which providers will deliver their treatment, the cost of services, and provider network status.\n As part of the legislative agreement, the package includes a long-term extension of expiring public health programs, including: Community Health Centers, National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Centers, and Special Diabetes Programs.\nLegislative text is availablehere.\nSection-by-section is availablehere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/congress-passes-kaine-cosponsored-bill-to-strengthen-partnerships-between-hbcus-and-federal-agencies-", "Congress Passes Kaine Cosponsored Bill to Strengthen Partnerships between HBCUs and Federal Agencies", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 11, 2020\n\t\t\t Congress Passes Kaine Cosponsored Bill to Strengthen Partnerships between HBCUs and Federal Agencies  \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\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 Legislation will now go to the President for signature\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congress passed the HBCU Propelling Agency Relationships Towards a New Era of Results for Students (PARTNERS) Act, legislation cosponsored by U.S. Senator Tim Kaine to strengthen partnerships between federal agencies and the country's more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), including the five HBCUs in Virginia. The bill is now on its way to the President's desk for signature.\r\nHBCUsplay a crucial role in providing students a quality education. It's important that they have the resources tohelp students succeed, Kaine said. I'm glad to see this bipartisan legislation make its way to the President's desk.\r\nThe HBCU PARTNERS Act will require federal agencies with relevant grants and programs to undertake annual planning and coordinate their efforts to support and expand HBCU participation in those programs. The bill strengthens the rigor and transparency requirements of existing law by requiring that agencies track their progress toward past goals and share their plans with Congress. In addition, it codifies the President's Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for the institutions' priorities and policy concerns to be raised.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and member of the Senate HBCU Caucus, Senator Kaine has long focused his efforts on supporting HBCUs.In July, Kaine introduced theExpanding Medical Education Actto help address the lack of representation of rural students, underserved students, and students of color in the physician pipeline by providing grants to colleges and universities to establish or expand medical schools in underserved areas or at minority-serving institutions, includingHBCUs.Last year, Kaine successfully pushed to get theFUTURE Actsigned into lawtorestore$255 million annually in federal funding for HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs).Additionally, Kaine helpedsecure$93 million in critical funding to strengthen HBCUs and MSIs as part of the December 2019 government spending deal.\r\nThe legislation was sponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Tim Scott (R-SC). In addition to Kaine, the HBCU PARTNERS Act was also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Doug Jones (D-AL), David Perdue (R-GA), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). A companion bill was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Mark Walker (R-NC-06) and Alma Adams (D-NC-12).\r\nFull text of the bill is availablehere.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-final-passage-of-national-defense-bill", "Kaine Statement on Final Passage of National Defense Bill", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 11, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement on Final Passage of National Defense Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after Congress passed the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes numerous provisions he championed to benefit Virginia's defense community, shipbuilding industry, and military families. The legislation also includes an amendment to initiate a 3-year process to rename DOD facilities currently named after Confederates, including three Virginia military bases: Fort Lee, Fort Pickett, and Fort AP Hill.\r\nI'm pleased we were able to deliver this legislation that provides a pay raise for troops, veteran suicide prevention, and other important efforts to support our national security, said Kaine. I'm also proud Congress sent a clear, bicameral message that we must rename DOD facilities currently named after Confederates. We cannot continue to honor those who fought against the United States to deprive African Americans of their equality if we as a country hope to overcome the racial injustices that continue to surround us today. The NDAA is one of the most important bills Congress passes, and we must not allow President Trump's veto threat to undo this critical bipartisan work.\r\nThe following list includes many of the priorities Kaine advocatedthat were included in the final bill:\r\nSupport For Military Families:IncludeslegislationSenators Kaine and Blumenthal introduced to make child care more affordable and accessible for military families.The legislation also asks military services to identify additional benefits for child care employees in order to recruit and retain top talent. Also includeslegislationthe Senators introduced to help identify and remove barriers to maternal and postpartum mental health care in the military by requiring a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study of postpartum mental health conditions among servicemembers and militaryspouses, which will help ensure that appropriate support and resources areavailable to them.Also includes a Kaine provision that helps servicemembers' children with disabilities continue to access free appropriate public education and receive support services.\r\nShipbuilding and Repair:Authorizes over $23 billion for shipbuilding, $3.5 billion above the President's budget request. Fully funds a second Virginia-class submarine that was excluded from President Trump's FY21 budget request. In February, Senator Kainewroteto the Navy to express concerns over the proposed funding reductions for the Virginia-class submarine program in the budget request andcalled forfull funding for two Virginia-class submarines. Virginia-class submarines are constructed, in part, at Newport News Shipbuilding. Also authorizes contract authority for up to two Columbia-class submarines and provides over $350 million to help submarine and surface ship suppliers.Also authorizes over $10 billion in ship maintenance and operations support.\r\nDOD Panel on Confederate Names:Includes, with strong bipartisan support, anamendmentsponsored by Senator Warren and cosponsored by Senator Kaine to initiate a 3-year process to rename DOD facilities currently named after Confederates.\r\nBetter Care for Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange:Includes provisions from the Fair Care for Vietnam Vets Act of 2020, which Senator Kaine joined Senator Tester in introducing. This amendment establishes a presumption of service connection for Bladder Cancer, Hypothyroidism, and Parkinsonism for veterans exposed to certain herbicide agents while serving in Vietnam. Without this presumption, a veteran can face great challenges when requesting care and support from the Department of Veterans Affairs.\r\nHBCU Support:Includes $5 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) to support national security technology missions by providing DOD with high-quality research and STEM training.\r\nMilitary Housing Improvements:Includes funding to hire civil servants in the DOD offices that oversee issues like the Military Housing Privatization Initiative to implement military housing reforms.\r\nMilitary Construction (MILCON) Funding:Authorizes $250 million for 9 military construction projects throughout the Commonwealth, including:\r\n \r\n$58 million for a Naval Special Warfare Group facility at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story\r\n$54.5 million for a Naval Special Warfare operations and command center at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story\r\n$30.4 million for an E-2D training facility at Naval Station Norfolk\r\n$17.7 million for anMH60& CMV-22B corrosion control and paint facility at Naval Station Norfolk\r\n$19.5 million for an access control point gate and land acquisition at Joint Base Langley-Eustis\r\n$51 million for a training support facility at the Humphreys Engineer Center\r\n$9.4 million for a submarine logistics support facility at Naval Station Norfolk\r\n \r\nResiliency of Military Installations:Expands the FY20 NDAA authority to carry out military installation resilience projects outside the fence of military installations if it enhances the installation's readiness.\r\nShipyard Infrastructure Briefing:Requires the Department of the Navy to provide six-month updates on the shipyard infrastructure optimization plan to ensure the plan is adequately supported and financed by the Department.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-now-accepting-applications-for-us-attorneys-for-eastern-and-western-district-of-virginia-", "Warner & Kaine Now Accepting Applications for U.S. Attorneys for Eastern and Western District of Virginia", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 11, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Now Accepting Applications for U.S. Attorneys for Eastern and Western District of Virginia  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine are now accepting applications for the positions of U.S. Attorney for the Eastern and Western District of Virginia to replace current officeholders. After receipt of applications, the Senators will select from the list of qualified attorneys to recommend for the nomination. The White House will then nominate individuals to be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The nominations are subject to confirmation by the full Senate.\r\nU.S. Attorneys play an integral role in protecting a geographically diverse region and addressing a wide range of issues  whether it be human trafficking, narcotics, gang violence, white collar crime, or public corruption, said the Senators. As we begin the transition process for these key positions in Virginia's two districts, we look forward to reviewing qualified candidates and selecting the right individuals.\r\nInterested applicants should visit Senator Warner's website for application instructions. The application period will close Monday, December 21, 2020.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-sen-mark-r-warner-on-dhs-s-decision-to-release-additional-h-2b-visas", "Statement of Sen. Mark R. Warner on the SolarWinds Hack", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement afterthe Senate approvedthe FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Earlier this week, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved the bill, and with the Senate passage, the legislation now heads to the President's desk for approval.\r\nToday's bill passage demonstrates compromise on both sides of the aisle and a willingness to protect our servicemembers, strengthen our national security defenses, and support critical defense industries right here in Virginia. This includes authorizing more than $250 million for nine military construction projects throughout the Commonwealth, in addition to providing funding for the procurement of asecond Virginia-class submarine, said Sen. Warner who personally pushed for the Virginia-class submarine program funding after it was excluded from the President's FY21 defense budget.\r\nIn addition to providing a 3 percent pay raise for our servicemembers, we also secured provisions in the bill to help them stay safe amid the ongoing health crisis. This includes making sure that we maintain a 30-day supply of personal protective equipment for active duty and reserve members of our armed forces, many of whom continue to play a critical role in COVID-19 response efforts in our communities. Additionally, following the tough lessons learned from this health crisis, this year's defense bill now requires that the Department of Defense (DoD) have protocols in place to prepare and protect our nation and our military personnel from future global pandemics that impact military readiness, continued Sen. Warner.\r\nIn March, after the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) reported alarming cases of COVID-19 among its personnel, Sen. Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) wrote to the Secretary of the Navy inquiring about efforts to protect the health and safety of servicemembers. Many military personnel, whether here at home or abroad, often work in an environment that requires the sharing of resources and facilities, which puts them at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 in the absence of proper protocols and resources.\r\nI'm also proud of the work we did to keep the pressure on privatized military housing companies by implementing additional accountability measures to ensure our military families have the safe housing they deserve as they serve our nation. I will continue to fight on behalf of our military families so that they no longer feel powerless when rightfully demanding a healthy housing environment for their children, he continued. And with so many individuals rightly focused on combating the racial injustices in our country, we also have to make sure that we're fighting these injustices within our military. That includes providing our military leadership the tools and information they need to combat racism and discrimination in our military ranks. That's why I'm proud that my provision to mandate reporting on instances of racism and discrimination was included in this year's defense bill.\r\nThis annual legislation also honors the sacrifices of our veterans, particularly those who served during the Vietnam War and have had to suffer long-term effects from Agent Orange-related conditions. After repeatedlyurgingthe Trump Administration to stop stonewalling critical benefits for Vietnam veterans, I am pleased to report that we are finally able to add Bladder Cancer, Hypothyroidism,andParkinsonism to the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) list of service-connected presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange exposure, continued Sen. Warner. My hope is that this legislation will finally provide peace of mind to the patriots who have long fought to get coverage for these serious conditions that stem from their service to our nation.\r\nSen. Warner has been a fierce advocate on bringing much-needed reforms to privatized military housing following reports of health hazards in military homes across the country. He successfully secured large portions of his military housing legislation in the FY20 NDAA, but his work did not stop there. In March, aU.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) studyfound deficiencies inthe DoD's oversightof privatized militaryhousing, concluding that the DoD lacked reliable information to provide a full picture of the conditions of privatized housing. Currently, the military departmentsuse a range of project-specific performance metrics to monitorprivatehousingcompanies'performance. However, the metrics used, while designed to focus on resident satisfaction and on the quality of the maintenance conducted on housing units,do not always provide meaningful information or reflect actual housingconditions. For example, the GAO found that a common indicator is how quickly the private partner responded to a work order, rather than whether the issue was actually addressed. Ultimately, these metrics matter because they feed into decisions around whether privatized housing companies earn performance incentive fees.\r\nTo improve this gap in housing condition metrics, Sen. Warner'sprovisionin the defense bill requiresthat the military services review the indicators underlying the privatized housing project performance metrics to ensure they adequately measure the condition and quality of the home. Additionally, the provision requiresthe Secretary of Defense to make the information regarding the underlying performance metrics for each project available to the tenants to ensure greater transparency and oversight.\r\nIn the wake of nationwide protests on racial injustice and reports of growing white nationalist extremism,Sen. Warner pushedto expand reportingon whether servicemembers have faced racist, anti-Semitic, or supremacist activity while on duty. Sen. Warner's bipartisan provision builds upon anexisting DoD requirement to include in appropriate surveys more detailed information on whethermilitary personnel have ever experienced or witnessed [or reported] extremist activity in the workplace. Additionally, in an effort to create a more inclusive and diverse workforce within the Pentagon, Sen. Warner successfullyincluded a provision that would require the GAO to do adiversity and inclusion studyto analyze themakeup of the workforce, as well as differences in rates of promotion by race, ethnicity and gender, to help develop a stronger and more diverse pipeline of career professionals.\r\nSen. Warner, the Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, also applauded the inclusion of his provision to enable greater flexibility around the use of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs).The provision directs the Director of National Intelligence, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, to issue new policy guidance to enable government agencies and contractors to more efficiently use SCIFs operated to support the DoD and the Intelligence Community. Currently, each agency or contractor's SCIF space can only be used by its own personnel, leaving many secure spaces underutilized.\r\nThis year's defense bill also takes a robust approach in accelerating research and development for next-generation 5G wireless technology and in creating a model for alternative, Western-driven innovation using an open-architecture, or Open-RAN, model,said Sen. Warner, who co-founded the wireless company Nextel before entering public service.\r\n\r\nThe defense bill prioritizes U.S. innovation and technology development in the area of 5G and semiconductors, to compete with countries like China. As a former technology andtelecommunicationsexecutive, Sen. Warner has pushed the Administration to develop a strategy to maintain our advantages intechnological innovation, as well as toleadon 5G. Earlier this year, Sen. Warner teamed up witha bipartisan group of leading national security Senatorsto introduce theUtilizing Strategic Allied (USA) Telecommunications Act, which would provide robust investment in Western-allied alternatives to Chinese equipment providers such as Huawei and ZTE.In June, Sen. Warner along with Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)introduced legislationtobringsemiconductor manufacturing back to American soil by increasing federal incentives to stimulate advanced chip manufacturing, enable cutting-edge research and development, secure the supply chain,bring greater transparency to the microelectronics ecosystem, create American jobs, and ensure long-termnational security. Language drawing on both proposals was included in the final defense bill.\r\nAnd as a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Sen. Warner also secured the inclusion of his Improving Laundering Laws and Increasing Comprehensive Information Tracking of Criminal Activity in Shell Holdings (ILLICITCASH) Act. The bipartisanILLICITCASH Actseeks to improve corporate transparency, strengthen national security, and help law enforcement combatillicitfinancial activity being carried out by terrorists, drug and human traffickers, and other criminals.\r\nWith just over a month until the next Administration assumes command, we must ensure that President Biden will have the resources in place to counter any national security threat on day one, concluded Sen. Warner.\r\n\r\nThis week, President Trump doubled down on his threat to veto the annual defense bill over a provision to rename military bases named after Confederate military leaders. Sen. Warner has previously cautioned the President against playing politics with the defense bill in the midst of a global pandemic and growing global threats.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-rubio-applaud-passage-of-5g-legislation", "Warner & Rubio Applaud Passage of 5G Legislation", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), Acting Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, today applauded the inclusion of the Utilizing Strategic Allied (USA) Telecommunications Act in this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bipartisan USA Telecommunications Act seeks to encourage and support U.S. innovation in the race for 5G by providing funds to support research and development in Western-based alternatives to Chinese equipment providers Huawei and ZTE.\r\nFor too long we've called for our allies and trading partners to reject Huawei digital infrastructure  without providing competitively-priced, innovative alternatives that address their needs. I'm pleased to see my bipartisan, bicameral legislation included in this year's defense funding bill, said Sen. Warner. I look forward to working with Senate appropriators next year to ensure that these programs  which advance major national security priorities  receive full funding in the coming year.\r\nIt is in our national security interests to support American competition in the 5G market and take action to counter efforts by Chinese state-directed telecommunications companies to dominate wireless technology supply chains, Sen. Rubio said. I was proud to secure this critical provision in the FY21 NDAA conference report that will support the development of an innovative 5G wireless network that leverages American strengths and creates American jobs in the industries of the future without relying on malign Chinese state-directed actors like Huawei and ZTE.\r\nThe USA Telecommunications Act was introduced in January by Sens. Warner and Rubio along with Sens. Richard Burr (R-NC), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and John Cornyn (R-TX). The legislation will reassert U.S. and Western leadership by encouraging competition with Huawei that capitalizes on U.S. software advantages, accelerating development of an open-architecture model (known as Open-RAN) that would allow for alternative vendors to enter the market for specific network components, rather than having to compete with Huawei end-to-end.\r\nThe USA Telecommunications Act is one of several of Sen. Warner's national security priorities that were included in the final defense bill, among them the Improving Laundering Laws and Increasing Comprehensive Information Tracking of Criminal Activity in Shell Holdings (ILLICIT CASH) Act, which requires shell companies  often used as fronts for criminal activity  to disclose their true owners to the U.S. Department of Treasury, and the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) for America Act, which will restore semiconductor manufacturing back to American soil by increasing federal incentives to stimulate advanced chip manufacturing.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-5th-anniversary-of-the-every-student-succeeds-act", "Scott Statement on 5th Anniversary of the Every Student Succeeds Act", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCToday, Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement to commemorate the 5thanniversary of the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).\nFive years ago, we came together to pass theEvery Students Succeeds Act (ESSA)with the intent of bringing our country one step closer to achieving equity in education  the promise enshrined in the Supreme Court's landmark decision inBrown v. Board ofEducation.The decision declared that:\nIn these days, it is doubtful that any child may reasonably be expected to succeed inlife if . . . deniedopportunity of an education. Such an opportunity, where the state has undertaken to provide it, is a right which must be made available to all on equal terms.'\nRegrettably, in the five years since ESSA's passage, the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans have shown little interest in enforcing the equity guardrails at the heart of the law. Now, with the COVID-19 pandemic, the achievement gaps that ESSA intended to close are widening and students are experiencing learning loss at staggering rates. As we approach the 117thCongress, the incoming Biden Administration must partner with Congress to breathe new life into ESSA and restore our commitment to finally realizing the promise of equitable education for all.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mceachin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mceachin-announces-2020-congressional-app-challenge-winners", "Rep. McEachin Announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge Winners", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "A. McEachin", "M001200", "mceachin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RICHMOND, VA Congressman A. Donald McEachin (VA-04) today announced the winners of the Fourth Congressional District 2020 Congressional App Challenge. Jake Fulford and Will Sugden, both juniors at Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake, VA won with their application Metamusic.\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot for our students, said Congressman McEachin. Music is such an important form of self-expression and an outlet for many during stressful times. I am proud of Jake and Will for creating a useful app for musicians unable to gather for normal practice this year. Metamusic is a thoughtfully-designed app and I am certain that Jake and Will have very bright futures in computer science.\nMetamusic improves the at-home experience of musicians by providing them with an accurate way to tune their instruments, know if they are playing in time with their piece of music, and make sure they are playing on their intended scale.\nWe created Metamusic to empower musicians who were housebound due to the pandemic. The Congressional App Challenge not only gives us a feeling of validity but also reassures others about our future, said Fulford and Sugden.\nThe Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition that acknowledges students for their command of computer science demonstrated by the creation of their own apps. The winning students will have the opportunity to demo their app, Metamusic in the Capitol Building next year.\n\n   \nJake Fulford (left) and Will Sugden (right), Winners of the 4th Congressional District 2020 App Challenge", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/key-health-intelligence-consumer-protection-and-tech-policy-lawmakers-recommend-misinformation-focus-for-covid-19-task-force", "Key Health, Intelligence, Consumer Protection, and Tech Policy Lawmakers Recommend Misinformation Focus for COVID-19 Task Force", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, five lawmakers in leadership roles of House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over misinformation sent President-elect Biden a letter recommending that his COVID-19 response include a focus on misinformation.\r\nThe lawmakers are Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA);House Health Subcommittee Chairwoman Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA); House Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee Chair Jan Schakowsky (D-IL); Senate Rules Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-MN); and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff (D-CA).\r\nWe write to recommend that you incorporate a focus on misinformation within your broader COVID-19 response, including by adding a leading misinformation studies expert to the Task Force, wrote the lawmakers. The COVID-19 infodemic is about to dangerously intersect with a misinformation-laden anti-vaccine movement that has led to tragic consequences in our country.\r\nWhile we're optimistic a vaccine will aid our country in short order, we worry that misinformation threatens the success of a national vaccine program. A decade of misinformation on the safety and efficacy of vaccines, propelled in recent years by social media platforms, has laid the foundation for skepticism and opposition towards the COVID-19 vaccines. In November, four in ten Americans said they would not agree to be vaccinated against COVID-19 if an FDA-approved vaccine was available at no cost, the law makers continued.\r\nThese concerns motivate us to urge you to add a member to the Task Force who has a deep understanding of misinformation, including its causes, exacerbating factors, and ways to combat it. Professor Joan Donovan is ideally situated for the role. She is one of the world's leading scholars of misinformation, the lawmakers wrote. Professor Donovan also has a background in health and life sciences and has recently been studying COVID-19 misinformation.\r\nYou can read the full text of the letter HERE.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-now-accepting-applications-for-u-s-attorney-for-the-eastern-and-western-district-of-virginia", "Warner & Kaine Now Accepting Applications for U.S. Attorney for the Eastern and Western District of Virginia", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) are now accepting applications for the positions of U.S. Attorney for the Eastern and Western District of Virginia to replace current officeholders as the incoming-Biden Administration begins its transition. After receipt of applications, the Senators will select from the list of qualified attorneys to recommend for the nomination. The White House will then nominate individuals to be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The nominations are subject to confirmation by the full Senate.\r\nU.S. Attorneys play an integral role in protecting a geographically diverse region on a wide range of issues  from human trafficking, narcotics, and gang violence to white collar crime and public corruption, said the Senators. As we begin the transition process for these key positions in Virginia's two districts, we look forward to reviewing qualified candidates and selecting the right individuals.\r\nInterested applicants should visit Senator Warner's website for application instructions. The application period will close Monday, December 21, 2020.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402397", "Griffith-Backed Medical Marijuana Research Act Passes House", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement after H.R. 3797, the Medical Marijuana Research Act, passed the House of Representatives:\r\nDecisions on marijuana policy must be guided by science and evidence, but federal law currently inhibits researchers from collecting the data that should guide policymakers. The Medical Marijuana Research Act improves Federal Government policies on marijuana research. It is a change I have long sought, and I am encouraged that it passed the House today.\r\nBackground\r\nH.R. 3797, the Medical Marijuana Research Act, would ensure a supply of marijuana for research purposes through the National Institute on Drug Abuse Drug Supply Program. It would also direct the Food and Drug Administration to issue guidelines on the production of marijuana and encourage authorized researchers and manufacturers to produce marijuana under the law.\r\nGriffith is an original cosponsor of H.R. 3797 in this Congress and has introduced the bill in previous Congresses. He also introduced H.R. 171, the Legitimate Use of Medicinal Marihuana Act.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-meets-with-president-elect-biden-nominees-antony-blinken-and-linda-thomas-greenfield", "Kaine Meets With President-Elect Biden Nominees Antony Blinken & Linda Thomas-Greenfield", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Meets With President-Elect Biden Nominees Antony Blinken & Linda Thomas-Greenfield \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after virtually meeting with Secretary of State nominee Antony Blinken and Ambassador to the United Nations nominee Linda Thomas-Greenfield:\r\nThese nominees' qualifications are exceptional. I was glad to hear more about their vision for the future of American diplomacy and discuss ways we can work together to further U.S. foreign policy goals. I'm confident that if confirmed, they will be ready to hit the ground running on day one and work tirelessly to strengthen both our alliances and our security.\r\nToday's meetings covered a range of topics, including the Iran nuclear deal, war powers, diplomatic engagement in the Americas, human rights, and rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-uae-arms-sale-resolutions", "Kaine Statement on UAE Arms Sale Resolutions", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement on UAE Arms Sale Resolutions \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, released the following statement after voting for two Senate resolutions to block the Trump Administration's proposed arms sale to the United Arab Emirates:\r\n\"Today I voted in favor of two Senate Resolutions disapproving the Trump Administration's recently announced arms sale to the United Arab Emirates. While I believe that the UAE is an important US ally, Congress needs to review the details of arms transfers before they are finalized.In this case, Congress has not seen the details because the Administration has yet to conclude its discussions with the UAE about what protections should be in place.The right approach is for the US and UAE to finalize the transfer agreement, including provisions to ensure the security of American technology, allow Congress to review such provisions and then make a decision about the transfer.I am confident we can work out an acceptable set of protections, but I am unwilling to green light this arms sale until we do.\"\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/ahead-of-key-meeting-on-vaccine-approval-warner-leads-senate-colleagues-in-calling-for-equity-in-vaccine-distribution", "Ahead of Key Meeting on Vaccine Approval, Warner Leads Senate Colleagues in Calling for Equity in Vaccine Distribution", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  As the Food and Drug Administration's(FDA)independent vaccine review panel meets tomorrow to consider the emergency use authorization of an initial COVID-19 vaccine, U.S. Sen. Mark R.Warner(D-VA) led nine ofhis colleagues in urging Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert Redfield to ensure a fair and equitable vaccine distribution. The letter follows HHS Secretary Azar'scomments that states should decide who gets the first round ofthefederally approved COVID-19 vaccine, which could lead to a patchwork of varying distribution plans andaffect vaccine access for minority and high-risk populations disproportionately impactedby the virus.Sen. Warner's letter calls on federal health officials to provide more support to states so that they fully understand and appropriately implement expert guidelines ensuring equity.\r\nWe are writing to urge the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine by working closely with states to understand and appropriately implement COVID-19 vaccine distribution recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). As we approach potential emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration for one or more COVID-19 vaccines, it is essential that we do everything we can to ensure access to the vaccine for communities and populations hit hardest by the pandemic,wrote the Senators to HHS Secretary Azar and CDC Director Redfield.\r\nThe CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is a 15-member panel comprised of leading medical and public health experts with a focus on the fields of immunization practices and public health. The Advisory Committee reports to the CDC Director and is responsible for developing evidence-based public health recommendations for the safe and ethical use of vaccines. In the case of COVID-19, where initial supplies of a vaccine will be limited, ACIP will make recommendations to ensure the vaccine is equitably distributed. Historically, states and localities  in coordination with federal health authorities  use ACIP recommendations to develop their vaccination strategies.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators also underscore how the COVID-19 crisis has continued to disproportionately affect older Americans, communities of color, and essential workers. Overrepresentation in front-line jobs, higher rates of chronic disease, inequitable access to health care, and longstanding bias within the health care system itself have all contributed to these disparities.\r\nAs you know, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on millions of families and claimed the lives of more than 280,000 Americans to date. Older adults, essential workers and communities of color have been particularly hard hit by this virus. Individuals 85 and older are 630 times more likely to die from COVID-19, while Black and Latino Americans are more than twice as likely to become infected with COVID-19 and at a significantly higher risk of hospitalization and death compared to white Americans. Essential workers who cannot work from home also face high potential exposure to COVID-19 - particularly Americans living and working in long-term care facilities, prisons and other congregate care facilities. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are three times as likely to die of COVID-19 compared with others,they continued.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators urge that HHS and CDC work closely with state and local officials to ensure they fully understand and implement ACIP's recommendations in a manner that prioritizes public health, equity, and the wellbeing of vulnerable communities.\r\nSen. Warner was also joined on the letter bySens.Michael Bennet (D-CO), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Angus King (I-ME), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).\r\nThroughout this health crisis, Sen. Warner has pushed to make sure that we have the data needed to understand the scope of the crisis and its effect on diverse communities. He has previouslyintroduced legislationto require HHS to collect and report racial and other demographic data on COVID-19 testing, treatment, and fatality rates, and provide a summary of the final statistics and a report to Congress within 60 days after the end of the public health emergency. In addition, Sen. Warnerhas joined his colleagues inurging pharmaceutical companies engaged in COVID-19-related work to prioritize diversity in any coronavirus vaccine or trial to ensure that new treatments work for all Americans.\r\nA copy of the letter can be found here and below.\r\n\r\nDear Secretary Azar and Director Redfield:\r\nWe are writing to urge the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine by working closely with states to understand and appropriately implement COVID-19 vaccine distribution recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). As we approach potential emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration for one or more COVID-19 vaccines, it is essential that we do everything we can to ensure access to the vaccine for communities and populations hit hardest by the pandemic.\r\nAs you know, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on millions of families and claimed the lives of more than 280,000 Americans to date. Older adults, essential workers and communities of color have been particularly hard hit by this virus. Individuals 85 and older are 630 times more likely to die from COVID-19, while Black and Latino Americans are more than twice as likely to become infected with COVID-19 and at a significantly higher risk of hospitalization and death compared to white Americans. Essential workers who cannot work from home also face high potential exposure to COVID-19 - particularly Americans living and working in long-term care facilities, prisons and other congregate care facilities. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are three times as likely to die of COVID-19 compared with others.\r\nThe CDC's ACIP is comprised of leading medical and public health experts. The Advisory Committee is responsible for developing evidence-based public health recommendations for the safe and ethical use of vaccines. Additionally, in the case of COVID-19  where initial supplies of a vaccine will be limited  ACIP will serve the critical role of making recommendations to ensure the vaccine is equitably distributed. ACIP's recommendations will provide critical guidance to both the federal government and states regarding effectively targeting a COVID-19 vaccine, including to the most at-risk and in need populations.\r\nWe ask that you work in coordination with federal, state and local partners to ensure they fully understand and implement ACIP's recommendations in a manner that prioritizes public health, equity, and the most vulnerable communities. Should you have any additional questions regarding this request, please do not hesitate to contact us.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/joint-statement-of-sens-warner-cornyn-on-u-s-india-relations", "Joint Statement of Sens. Warner, Menendez and Reed on UAE Defense Sale", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and U.S. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement today after voting to support two resolutions of disapproval blocking the sale of jets, unmanned drones and weaponry to the United Arab Emirates:\r\nThe UAE is and will continue to be a critical security partner of the United States. We commend the UAE's decision to recognize and establish full diplomatic relations with Israel through the signing of the Abraham Accords on September 15, 2020. We appreciate that the UAE and Israel have been building political and economic ties that can ultimately make the region more secure.\r\nOur vote for this resolution of disapproval should not be construed as general opposition to a closer military relationship with the UAE and we remain open to considering support of the sale of advanced capabilities, including the F-35 and MQ-9, provided such sales are subject to sufficient congressional review. Congress has a long-established and rigorous review process for these types of arms sales in order to ensure that they are consistent with the national security objectives of the U.S. and our allies, aligned with our values, and fully consider any potential unintended consequences.\r\nUnfortunately, the Trump administration has once again tried to circumvent and undermine congressional oversight responsibilities while rushing through these sales in the final days of the administration.Many aspects of this proposed sale remain conceptual and we are being asked to support a significant transfer of advanced U.S. technology without clarity on a number of key details regarding the sale or sufficient answers to critical national security questions. Especially with a sale of this magnitude and sensitivity, Congress must exercise its oversight role to ensure proper safeguards of U.S. technology are in place.\r\nWhen sales go through the regular congressional process, foreign countries can be assured that it is the entire U.S. government supporting them. It makes the relationship deeper and more reliable.\r\nUnfortunately, the Trump administration has not given Congress the opportunity or information we need to consider the sale in a thoughtful and deliberate manner.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402396", "Griffith Calls for Coronavirus Relief, Appropriations Legislation to be Kept Separate", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today issued the following statement:\r\nI believe the need exists for further economic relief in response to the damage inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic. I am ready to support a rational package to provide it.\r\nDuring a call with the Republican Conference, I urged our leadership to keep any coronavirus package separate from the anticipated omnibus measure funding the Federal Government. Of course, Speaker Pelosi may have other ideas.\r\nOnce again, congressional leadership finds itself expecting one enormous appropriations bill to address all the needs of the moment. The House should have followed regular order earlier and passed individual spending bills as the law demands.\r\nAt this point, at the very least, we ought to pass a standalone coronavirus relief measure. The price of aid for Americans suffering from the effects of COVID-19 should not be forcing Americans to accept an omnibus spending bill produced behind closed doors and loaded with unrelated extraneous provisions and excessive spending.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-nomination-of-retired-gen-lloyd-austin", "Kaine Statement on Nomination of Retired Gen. Lloyd Austin", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 08, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Statement on Nomination of Retired Gen. Lloyd Austin \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on President-elect Biden's historic decision to nominate retired Gen. Lloyd Austin as Secretary of Defense:\r\nAs a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I have great respect for General Austin's leadership of CENTCOM and his deep experience with military operations. I look forward to hearing about his plans to strengthen our national security.\r\nRegarding the legal barrier for this nomination, I intend to closely evaluate the implications for waiving the National Security Act requirement twice in just four years.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-passage-of-water-resources-development-act", "Scott Statement on Passage of Water Resources Development Act", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on passage in the House of Representatives of S. 1811, the Water Resources Development Act of 2020:\nI am pleased that the Norfolk Coastal Storm Risk Management project has been authorized in this year's bipartisan Water Resources Development Act. This is a project that I have been fighting for over the last several years. The City of Norfolk is at a high risk for flooding due to high tides, nor'easters and hurricanes, and this risk has only been exacerbated by rising sea levels and land subsidence. Norfolk and other communities in Hampton Roads have risen to the challenge and invested in our community to ensure that we can continue to live with the water that surrounds us and supports our region. Norfolk is home to the Port of Virginia and the world's largest naval base and protecting the city from recurrent flooding is extraordinarily important both for our national security and the Commonwealth's economy.\nAs co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, I am also proud to have co-led the effort to fund resource protection and restoration projects within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This bill includes $90 million for such projects, an increase of $50 million, contributing to healthier streams, rivers, and a restored Chesapeake Bay.\nFinally, two critical projects in Chesapeake that I advocated for  the North Landing Bridge Replacement and the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Bridge Replacement at Deep Creek  were also included in this package. These projects are critical to connecting our region and important to the future of Chesapeake.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-the-fy21-national-defense-authorization-act", "Scott Statement on the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act Conference Report", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Bobby Scott, the chairman of the House Committee on Education and Labor, issued the following statement after the House of Representatives agreed to the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. Congressman Scott served as a conferee for the education and labor provisions contained in the House and Senate version of the FY 2021 NDAA.\nI was proud to vote for this year's National Defense Authorization Act. Our military assets and shipbuilding industrial base are vital to the economy of Hampton Roads. The conference report provides for a well-deserved three percent pay increase for our servicemembers. It also includes several important provisions that will directly support shipbuilding and ship maintenance in Hampton Roads.These provisions include funding for the Navy to procure one Columbia-class submarine and two Virginia-class submarines, and requiring advanced procurement to maintain the two per year build rate for the Virginia-class program. The FY21 NDAA also specifically prohibits the retirement of an aircraft carrier before its mid-life refueling.\nOur region is also home to Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNS)  the nation's oldest public shipyard. NNS has long been in need of significant capital improvements and progress has been made over the years, but more needs to be done to support its mission. The FY21 NDAA includes important language requiring the Navy to establish dedicated funding for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), as well as requiring regular briefings to Congress on the status of the implementation of shipyard optimization and modernization.\nThe conference report also provides funding for environmental remediation on military bases, including funding to clean-up bases contaminated with PFAS chemicals, and funding to research alternatives to PFAS chemicals. Protecting military families, firefighters, and all of Hampton Roads from PFAS pollution remains a priority and I will continue to work with my colleagues to clean-up and avoid further PFAS pollution.\nAnd as Chair of the Education and Labor Committee, it was important for me to see the inclusion of funding for the Impact Aid program, which provides critical funding to school districts impacted by the loss of property taxes due to nearby tax-exempt military installations located near or within school districts.And I am pleased that several provisions maintain critical support for our HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions, which play a critical role in creating a diverse national security workforce.\nFinally, the FY21 NDAA establishes a process to finally remove all names, symbols, displays, monuments, and other paraphernalia that honors or commemorates the Confederate States of America or anyone that voluntarily served in rebellion against the United States.This symbolic yet important changedemonstrates our willingness to acknowledge our complicated history and to honor those Americans who fought for our nation.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mceachin.house.gov/media/press-releases/mceachin-leads-more-60-colleagues-bicameral-letter-congressional-leadership", "McEachin Leads More than 60 Colleagues in Bicameral Letter to Congressional Leadership Urging Assistance for Environmental Justice Communities in COVID-19 Relief Package", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "A. McEachin", "M001200", "mceachin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative A. Donald McEachin (VA-04), co-chair and co-founder of the United for Climate and Environmental Justice Task Force, today announced a bicameral letter to House and Senate leaders urging them to include robust assistance for environmental justice communities in forthcomingCOVID-19 relief legislation.\nIn the letter, 10 U.S. Senators led bySenators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill)andCory Booker (D-NJ)and over 50 members of the House co-led byRepresentatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07),Nanette Diaz Barragn (CA-44),Lisa Blunt Rochester (Del-At Large),Bobby L. Rush (IL-01),Rashida Tlaib (MI -13), Raul Ruiz (CA-36)andRepresentative Ral M. Grijalva (AZ-03), Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee, call for the next COVID-19 package to prioritize the needs and recovery of environmental justice communities and ensure that the principles of equity and justice are centered in this response. Specifically, the Senators and Representatives wrote that the next package must provide quality water and ensure drinking water services; increase access to and investment in energy assistance programs; accelerate the deployment of zero emissions transportation and goods movement; support programs that support workforce development and pollution reduction; and address health impacts and support programs that improve the health of environmental justice communities.\nThe decades-old legacy of racism and environmental inequity has made environmental justice communities  including low-income communities, communities of color and Tribal and indigenous communities in the U.S. and U.S. territories  especially vulnerable to COVID-19,wrote the lawmakers.Research illustrates a clear link between higher levels of environmental risk, including exposure to air pollution and higher rates of coronavirus mortality. As a result, members of environmental justice communities and communities of color, who are more likely to reside in areas with higher levels of pollution or live on the fenceline' of industry and transportation corridors, are disproportionately impacted by the virus.\nThe letter builds on calls from Members of Congress since the onset of the pandemic urging the passage of legislation to address the needs of environmental justice communities during the COVID-19 crisis, including aletterfrom Congressman McEachin, Chair Grijalva and more than 40 of their colleagues in March urging House and Senate leadership toconsider a number of provisions to ensure future relief bills address social equity and environmental health issues and aletterfrom Senator Duckworth, Senator Booker and 14 of their colleagues in April to Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer requesting assistance in the fourth COVID-19 relief package for environmental justice communities.\nGiven the disproportionate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on environmental justice communities, it is critical that we work to pass legislation to address the needs of frontline and fenceline communities,the letter continued.Though we were pleased by the inclusion of several provisions within the House-passed Heroes Acts, including certain provisions outlined in the described letters, we reassert that any future COVID-19 relief legislation should incorporate the full measure of provisions to deliver relief to these communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement-of-senate-intel-vice-chair-mark-r-warner-on-passage-of-war-powers-resolution", "Statement of Senate Intel Vice Chair Mark R. Warner on the hacking of the cybersecurity firm FireEye", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and Co-Chair of the Senate Cybersecurity Caucus, released a statement today on the announcement by cybersecurity firm FireEye that it was the victim of hackers tied to a nation-state:\r\nThe hack of a premier cybersecurity firm demonstrates that even the most sophisticated companies are vulnerable to cyber-attacks.\r\nI applaud FireEye for quickly going public with this news, and I hope the company's decision to disclose this intrusion serves as an example to others facing similar intrusions.\r\nWe have come to expect and demand that companies take real steps to secure their systems, but this case also shows the difficulty of stopping determined nation-state hackers. As we have with critical infrastructure, we have to rethink the kind of cyber assistance the government provides to American companies in key sectors on which we all rely.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402395", "Congressman Griffiths Weekly E-Newsletter 12.7.20", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Setting an agenda means setting priorities. Based on the agenda of the U.S. House of Representatives, apparently marijuana is a priority of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA).\r\nIt must be so, because on December 4 she used some of the little legislative time remaining in this Congress to bring up H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2019. H.R. 3884 not only decriminalizes marijuana, but expunges previous marijuana convictions and permits taxpayer dollars to be used in support of the marijuana industry and convicted drug dealers.\r\nI doubt the constituents we represent in the House believe this measure to be such an urgent concern amid the current pandemic and economic downturn.\r\nTo be sure, I am supportive of changes to current federal drug laws. I support medicinal marijuana and further research into the effects of marijuana use, which the present laws and regulations make difficult to pursue. I have introduced legislation and worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to achieve these goals.\r\nBut with few legislative days remaining in this Congress, now is certainly not the time to focus on full-blown marijuana legalization. Further, H.R. 3884 goes way too far in the other direction from the restrictions currently in place.\r\nIn light of the fact that the bill was taken up so late in the Congress and with little chance of becoming law, H.R. 3884 appears to be more of a messaging bill than a serious attempt at legislating. But what kind of message is sent by its provisions?\r\nConsider how it handles marijuana convictions. Any prior conviction for non-violent federal marijuana offenses are expunged, and courts are required to conduct resentencing hearings on any federal convictions that included marijuana as part of the underlying offense apart from crimes of violence. For example, if an individual was convicted of embezzling from a bank but was in possession of marijuana when arrested, he or she could be eligible for resentencing.\r\nThis would create tremendous strain on the court system, occupying its time and resources with thousands of resentencing hearings rather than more important business.\r\nPrior marijuana convictions could also not be considered in denying any federal public benefit, granting security clearances, or in regard to immigration laws. So the individuals recently caught in Connecticut with a rental truck carrying an estimated $15 million worth of marijuana, as an example, could benefit from these provisions.\r\nNot only are these offenses expunged, but H.R. 3884 creates an Office of Cannabis Justice in the Department of Justice. The task of the new office would be to administer a grant program providing services to individuals convicted of marijuana-related offenses.\r\nChanging the laws should not mean directing taxpayer dollars to individuals convicted of breaking the law or require federal grants and loans for the marijuana industry.\r\nWe still do not have enough data on the effects of marijuana use. This has long been a concern of mine, and why I have introduced or cosponsored bills that would make research on possible effects easier.\r\nJust in September, a bill I cosponsored, the Medical Marijuana Research Act, advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. I had introduced versions of it in previous years and am glad to see it progress now. A floor vote is anticipated this month, a fact I appreciate but which makes little sense considering the vote on H.R. 3884.\r\nH.R. 3884 leapfrogs over more careful measures, disregarding public health consequences. It deschedules marijuana entirely from the list of scheduled substances under the Controlled Substances Act instead of moving it to another schedule that more appropriately assesses the risk of use.\r\nEarlier this year, the House rushed to ban flavored tobacco products and vaping after a spate of sicknesses. Most of the people who fell ill were vaping products that contained THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Yet H.R. 3884 takes no action to ban flavored marijuana vapes, or generally to prevent marijuana use among young people.\r\nH.R. 3884 would introduce more problems than it solves at a time when our attention is best directed to other topics.\r\nMy position on marijuana remains the same: legalization for medicinal purposes and loosened restrictions for research. I am ready to work with Democrats and Republicans to achieve these goals and more generally to rationalize federal policy at a time when more states are opting to legalize marijuana to various degrees. The path away from the perplexing current state of marijuana policy need not lead to the reckless policy regime created by H.R. 3884.\r\nIf you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website atwww.morgangriffith.house.gov.  \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-scott-statement-on-the-nomination-of-california-attorney", "Chairman Scott Statement on the Nomination of California Attorney General Xavier Becerra for Secretary of Health and Human Services", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCCommittee on Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03) released the following statement after President-elect Biden nominated California Attorney General Xavier Becerra to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).\nI applaud President-elect Biden's nomination of California Attorney General Xavier Becerra to be the next Secretary of Health and Human Services. Becerra has an extensive career from serving in the California General Assembly, the U.S. House of Representatives  including as a Member of the Education and Labor Committee  and, most recently, fighting on behalf of Californians as the attorney general.\nAs we continue to confront the worst public health emergency in recent history, our first priority must be the health and wellbeing of all Americans. I maintain full faith and confidence that Attorney General Becerra will protect theAffordable Care Act, fight to end inequities in our health care system, and flawlessly execute the Biden administration's plan to crush this virus. To support our most vulnerable communities, I am confident Becerra will address our nation's crumbling child care system, improve the lives of people with disabilities, and strengthen support for seniors.\nI look forward to working with the Biden administration's health team  a group of dedicated public servants prepared to combat our nation's most pressing health care challenges during this critical time. We are united in our belief that improving the health, safety, and well-being of our country is fundamental to rebuilding a strong economy.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-trump-administration-s-final-rule-to-weaken-anti", "Scott Statement on Trump Administrations Final Rule to Weaken Anti-Discrimination Protections in Federal Contracting", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCChairman Robert C. Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after the Department of Labor's (DOL) Office of Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) finalized a rule to gut nondiscrimination protections by vastly expanding religious exemptions to Executive Order 11246, which prohibit discrimination in hiring by federal contractors.\nToday, the Trump administration finalized a rule to weaken anti-discrimination protections in federal contracting. The new rules gives taxpayer-funded contractors, including some for-profit corporations, the power to hire and fire employees for any potentially discriminatory reasons, except race, under the guise of religious freedom.\nBy finalizing this rule, the Department abandons its duty to protect workers from discriminationbizarrely stating that nondiscrimination provisions are not compelling.' This harmful rule broadens religious exemptions to allow employers claiming sincerely held religious beliefs to discriminate against our most vulnerable communities, including LGBTQ Americans and pregnant women.\nCongress must take action to pass theDo No Harm Actand ensure the Religious Freedom Restoration Act is not used as a weapon to undermine anti-discrimination protections. Civil rights laws should protect those who are discriminated againstnot those who are engaged in illegal discrimination.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-honored-with-national-park-foundation-s-inaugural-hero-award", "Warner Honored with National Park Foundation's Inaugural Hero Award", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today at an outdoor and socially-distanced ceremony at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) was awarded the National Park Foundation's Hero Award by Foundation President, Will Shafroth. The award commemorates Sen. Warner's work in getting The Great American Outdoors Act, a bill he championed, signed into law.\r\nAs a lifelong advocate of our national parks and public lands, I am honored to be an inaugural recipient of the National Park Foundation's Hero Award. I am incredibly proud that Congress was able to come together and pass The Great American Outdoors Act this year, which included my bill  the Restore Our Parks Act  that will allocate up to $6.65 billion to the National Park Service to address critical maintenance needs at our beloved national parks, said Sen. Warner. This bipartisan legislation represents a truly once-in-a-generation investment in our national parks and other public lands that will protect these cherished sites for decades to come. It's only fitting that we were able to celebrate at the Jefferson Memorial, which will in fact be one of the first projects to receive funding from the new law. Ushering the bill's passage and eventual bill signing wouldn't have been possible without the tireless advocacy of the National Park Foundation.\r\nAs we reflect on Senator Warner's leadership in passing the Great American Outdoors Act, the National Park Foundation is proud to recognize his commitment to national parks across our nation, said Will Shafroth, President & CEO, National Park Foundation. A true park hero, Senator Warner has been a champion for Virginia's treasured places such as Shenandoah National Park, Great Falls Park, Petersburg National Battlefield, and Fort Monroe National Monument, among others. He has also been a great proponent for the Foundation's work to enhance national parks through philanthropy, and we are grateful for his ongoing support.\r\nThe Great American Outdoors Act is a product ofSen. Warner's nearly three year initialeffort to provide relief to nationalparksin Virginia, where the maintenance backlog currently sits at$1.1 billion dollars.\r\nIn June, the National Park Service releaseda reportthat estimated that an average of 40,300 direct jobs and 100,100 direct and indirect jobs would be supported nationally by theRestore Our Parks Actif passed as part of theGreatAmericanOutdoorsAct. InVirginia,it isestimatedthat10,340 jobswould be created or supported as a result of Sen. Warner's push to address the national parks backlog.\r\nIn addition, arecent NPS studyhighlighted the financial impact national parks sites have on Virginia's economy. Last year,22.8 million individualsfrom around the world visited national parks in Virginia, spending $1.2 billion. Additionally, national parks in Virginiahelped support17,300 jobs and contributed over $1.7 billion to the Commonwealth's economy. Because of the economic impact national parks have on communities across the country, more than 800organizationshave pledged their support for theGreatAmericanOutdoorsAct.\r\nSen. Warner's effort to address the maintenance backlog began inMarch 2017, when he worked withSen. Rob Portman (R-OH) to introduce theNational Park Legacy Act,which would have eliminated the NPS maintenance backlog by creating a thirty-year designated fund to take care of maintenance needs at visitor centers, rest stops, trails and campgrounds, as well as transportation infrastructure operated by NPS such as the George Washington Memorial Parkway and Arlington Memorial Bridge. That same year, the U.S.Department of the Interiorannounced itsown proposal,drawing heavily on the initial proposal from Sens. Warner and Portman. However, the Administration proposal  which was introduced in the Senate as theNational ParkRestorationActby Sens. Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Angus King (I-ME)  would not have established a dedicated funding stream for NPS maintenance.\r\nIn March 2018, after extensive negotiations among Sens. Warner, Portman, Alexander, and King, the bipartisan group introduced theRestore Our Parks Act,a bipartisan consensus proposal endorsed by the Trump Administration, to investin overdue maintenance needs at NPS sites. The bill would reduce the maintenance backlog by establishing the National Park Service LegacyRestorationFund and allocating existing revenues from onshore and offshore energy development. This funding would come from 50 percent of all revenues that are not otherwise allocated and deposited into the General Treasury, not exceeding $1.3 billion each year for the next five years. In February 2019, Sen. Warner reintroduced theRestore Our Parks Actand, the billwasoverwhelmingly approvedby the Senate Energy and Natural ResourcesCommitteein November.\r\nIn March 2020, following thePresident'sannouncementthat he would back the bipartisanRestore OurParksActas well as full and permanent funding forLWCF, Sen. Warner, along with Sens. Cory Gardner (R-CO), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), Portman, King, Alexander, and Richard Burr(R-NC) introduced theGreatAmericanOutdoorsAct,whichwould provide $9.5 billion over five years to the NationalParkService, Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Indian Education to address the deferred maintenancebacklogat these agencies. The new law would also provide permanent, mandatory funding for theLWCF, whichprovides states and local communities with technical assistance, recognition, and funding to help preserve and protect public lands. Virginia has received approximately $368.5 million inLWCFfundingover the past four decades to helpprotectdozens of nationalparks, wildlife refuges, forests, trails and more.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-fair-housing-programs", "Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Fair Housing Programs", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Fair Housing Programs \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and their colleagues to introduce legislation that would take steps to fight housing discrimination. TheHousing Fairness Act of 2020would reaffirm the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development's commitment to fair housing by increasing funding for fair housing programs, making improvements to the Fair Housing Initiatives Program, reinstating the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Rule, and providing additional funds for research into housing discrimination.\r\nAs a former fair housing lawyer, I've seen firsthand the impact housing has on a family's health and stability, Kaine said. Especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we must ensure all Americans have equal access to affordable and safe housing.\r\nSince its passage in 1968, the Fair Housing Act has given government the ability to remedy and resolve housing discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, and familial status. However, housing discrimination remains a widespread problem in the United States. Fair housing complaints have remained steady over the past years, with 28,880 complaints in 2019. The Trump Administration has weakened fair housing protections and rescinded efforts to eliminate segregation. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to exacerbate housing discrimination, since communities of color face disproportionate economic effects that may cause them to move and face discrimination.\r\nKaine began his career as a lawyer specializing in the representation of people who had been deniedhousingdue to their race, disability, or family status. He has continued to advocate for fair housing in the Senate. In 2019, Kaine reintroduced theFairHousing Improvement Act of 2019to protect veterans and low-income families fromhousingdiscrimination.\r\nThe legislation was also cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). TheHousing Fairness Act of 2020was first introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Al Green (D-TX-9).\r\nThe full text of the bill is availablehere.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/northern-virginia-delegation-norton-hail-full-reopening-of-memorial-bridge", "Northern Virginia Delegation, Norton Hail Full Reopening of Memorial Bridge", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Northern Virginia Delegation, Norton Hail Full Reopening of Memorial Bridge \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. -Over five years aftercorrosion and structural weaknessled to lane closures and the imposition of a weight limit, Memorial Bridge fully reopened today with all lanes open to traffic. The historic bridge, which connects Arlington National Cemetery in Northern Virginia and the Lincoln Memorial in the District of Columbia, was repaired with a $227 million rehabilitation projectsecuredafteramulti-yearadvocacyeffortby the congressional delegation.\r\nStatement from U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC):\r\nWe are thrilled to see Memorial Bridge finally reopened after years of hard work, and we thank everyone who helped make this moment possible. Nearly five years ago the National Park Service warned that the bridge would close by 2021 unless extensive repairs were undertaken. We knew that the loss of this key regional artery would inflict great hardship on our constituents, and worked with urgency to secure the funding necessary to restore and reopen the bridge. Thanks to those efforts and the support of key regional officials, that project has been completed successfully.\r\nMemorial Bridge is now fully operational, and stands not only as a historic and functional monument, but also as a symbol of the kind of progress that is possible on rebuilding key transportation infrastructure through smart government investment. We look forward to helping make more successes like this one possible in the National Capital Region and across the country in years to come.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-more-than-10-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-virginia-health-centers", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $10 Million in Federal Funding To Support Virginia Health Centers", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $10 Million in Federal Funding To Support Virginia Health Centers \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $10,022,292 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Virginia health centers.\r\nThis federal fundingwill support centers who are doing life-saving work in their communities during the ongoing health crisis,the Senators said.We're pleased to see these federal dollars go towards supporting Virginia health centers.\r\nThe following organizations will receive funding:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecipient\r\n\r\n\r\nCity\r\n\r\n\r\nAmount\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJohnson Health Center\r\n\r\n\r\nLynchburg\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,597,851\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSouthern Dominion Health Systems, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\nVictoria\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,288,427\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPeninsula Institute For Community Health, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\nNewport News\r\n\r\n\r\n$3,464,307\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nVernon J. Harris East End Community Health Center\r\n\r\n\r\nRichmond\r\n\r\n\r\n$2,648,674\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBlue Ridge Medical Center, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nArrington\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,023,033\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTotal:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n$10,022,292\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis funding was awarded through the Health Resources and Services Administration's Health Center Program, which provides funds to community-based health care providers that provide primary care services in underserved areas. These health centers must meet a stringent set of requirements, including providing care on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay and operating under a governing board that includes patients.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-more-than-5-million-in-head-start-funding-for-virginia-", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $5 Million in Head Start Funding For Virginia", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $5 Million in Head Start Funding For Virginia  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $5,740,241 in federal grant funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Head Start and Early Head Start programs throughout Virginia.\r\nThese programs are critical to help ensure that our schools and organizations across the Commonwealth have the resources they need to support our future leaders,the Senators said.We're excited to see this funding go toward promoting early childhood development.\r\nThe following organizations will receive funding:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecipient\r\n\r\n\r\nCity\r\n\r\n\r\nAmount\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAugusta County School Board\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nVerona\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,205,103\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPeople Incorporated of Virginia\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAbingdon\r\n\r\n\r\n$2,383,149\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSTEP, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRocky Mount\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,120,735\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nEastern ShoreArea Agency on Aging/Community Action Agency\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExmore\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,031,254\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTotal:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n$5,740,241\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs Governors and Senators, Warner and Kaine have advocated for investments in early childhood education. Head Start programs promote school readiness for children under 5 years old from low-income families through health, education, family support, and social services.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-join-colleagues-in-calling-for-permanent-expansion-of-telehealth-coverage-in-end-of-year-legislation", "Warner & Kaine Join Colleagues In Calling For Permanent Expansion of Telehealth Coverage in End of Year Legislation", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Join Colleagues In Calling For Permanent Expansion of Telehealth Coverage in End of Year Legislation \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\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 Telehealth Use Among Medicare Beneficiaries Increased By Nearly 13,000% In Just Over A Month\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine joined Senator Brian Schatz and their congressional colleagues in calling for the expansion of access to telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic to be made permanent. Provisions from the CONNECT for Health Act, legislation introduced by Warner and cosponsored by Kaine, have allowed Medicare beneficiaries in all areas of the country, and in their homes, to utilize telehealth services, as well as more types of health care providers to provide telehealth, were included in previous COVID-19 legislation but will expire following the pandemic unless congressional leaders act to make those measures permanent.\r\nTelehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe, the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealth.Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over.\r\nIn their letter, the lawmakers highlight the growing use and benefits of telehealth during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, as patients seek to avoid traveling to hospitals and other providers and instead receive care at home. New data shows that the number of Medicare beneficiaries using telehealth services increased by nearly 13,000 percent in just a month and a half during the pandemic.\r\nSenators Warner and Kaine have been longtime advocates for increased access to health care throughtelehealth.In June, Warner and Kaine sent a letter to Senate leadership calling for the permanent expansion of access to telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic.SenatorKainealso introduced bipartisanlegislation in 2019toexpand health caretorural areas throughtelehealth. The bill passed out of the Senate Health, Education, Labor,andPensions (HELP) Committee as part of theLower Health Care Costs Act of 2019.\r\nThe bipartisan and bicameral Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act, was first introduced in 2016.\r\nThe full text of the letter is below and available here.\r\nDear Majority Leader McConnell, Minority Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, and Minority Leader McCarthy:\r\nAs we near the end of the year and the 116th Congress, we urge you to include provisions in end of the year legislation to make permanent expanded coverage of Medicare telehealth services. Specifically, immediate action to permanently waive geographic restrictions for originating sites, authorize health centers in rural and underserved areas to provide telehealth, and allow beneficiaries to use telehealth in their homes would be key steps to ensure much-needed certainty about Medicare telehealth coverage for health care providers and to improve access to care for patients.\r\nTelehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe. Telehealth is also important in increasing capacity at health care facilities and reducing health care providers' use of scarce personal protective equipment. For these reasons, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance at the beginning of the pandemic advising individuals and health care providers to optimize the use of telehealth services.\r\nThe Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act included provisions from our bipartisan CONNECT for Health Act to increase access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, waivers of statutory geographic and originating site restrictions have allowed Medicare beneficiaries to use telehealth services in all areas of the country, as well as in their homes. In addition, more types of health care providers including health centers in rural and underserved areas, are authorized to provide distant site telehealth services, among other important flexibilities.\r\nThis new authority resulted in a rapid increase in telehealth utilization. An early analysis of the expansion of Medicare telehealth coverage during the pandemic shows that before the public health emergency, about 13,000 beneficiaries in fee-for-service Medicare received telehealth services in a week, but by the last week of April, nearly 1.7 million beneficiaries received telehealth services. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) also found that beneficiaries are getting care through telehealth at similar rates across demographics. In response to these findings, CMS stated that, The rapid adoption of telemedicine among providers and patients has shown that telehealth is here to stay.\r\nHowever, the authority for this expanded coverage of Medicare telehealth services is temporary and tied to the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration, which is renewed in three-month increments. We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealtheven now during the pandemic. Ramping up telehealth requires significant costsincluding the purchase of equipment such as tablets and webcams, telehealth platforms, additional staff, provider training, and changes to electronic health records, billing, and patient engagement processes. Without more certainty about the future of Medicare coverage, many organizations are not investing in all of these areas to optimize the use and availability of telehealth.\r\nTherefore, Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over. We understand that further data analysis is underway to assess the impact of the telehealth changes that have been available during the public health emergency. However, to fully benefit from telehealth during the pandemic, there are steps Congress should take before the end of the year to expand access to telehealth with appropriate guardrails and beneficiary protections.\r\nIn particular, Congress should immediately provide permanent authority to waive or remove the geographic restrictions on originating sites in section 1834(m) of the Social Security Act so that a beneficiary's ability to receive telehealth services is no longer based on where he or she lives. Services that CMS has determined to be clinically appropriate to be delivered through telehealth should be available to all beneficiaries, not just some. CMS concurs, stating that The data have shown that telehealth can be an important source of care across the country, not just for those living in rural areas.\r\nWe also urge action to permanently authorize Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics to provide distant site telehealth services and to allow patients to receive clinically appropriate telehealth services in their homes. These actions would address the restrictions on originating sites that CMS has stated are the greatest barriers to the expansion of Medicare telehealth services as well as ensure that health centers can continue their pivotal role in providing health care in rural and underserved areas. \r\nTelehealth is an area of strong bipartisan support, and Congress can, and should, act now to lead the way in ensuring expanded access to telehealth. We appreciate your collaboration on this important issue.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-scott-statement-on-november-jobs-report", "Chairman Scott Statement on November Jobs Report", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCChairman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement aftertheBureau of Labor Statisticsannounced that the economy added 245,000 jobs in November with the unemployment rate at 6.7 percent.\nToday's report signals that economic recovery is continuing to slow as our nation faces one of the worst economic and public health crises in history. As COVID-19 cases and deaths skyrocket in nearly every state across the country, we continue to confront the disastrous impacts of the Trump Administration's failed response to the pandemic.\nLet's be clear: Record-high jobless claims are not a reflection of a successful economy. Just last week, more than 700,000 Americans filed new unemployment insurance claimscontinuing to exceed the record-high number of claims under previous administrations (695,000 claims in October 1982). Initial unemployment claims under President Trump for each of the last 37 consecutive weeks have exceeded unemployment claims under any other president in the history of the program. What's more, we are barreling toward the end-of-year expiration ofCARES Actpandemic unemployment programs, with an estimated12 millionworkers expected to lose their jobless benefits during the holiday season.\nIn order to save the economy, we must crush the COVID-19 virus so workers can safely return to work. Fortunately, we have the tools we need. Months ago, the House passed theHeroes Act, which secures funding for testing and vaccines, provides resources for public schools to reopen safely, and supports unemployed workers and struggling businesses. In his last several weeks in office, I urge President Trump and Senate Republicans to pass this critical relief package.\"\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-applauds-completion-of-the-arlington-memorial-bridge", "Warner Applauds Completion of the Arlington Memorial Bridge", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today celebrated the reopening of the Arlington Memorial Bridge. The rehabilitation project, whose funding was personally championed by Sen. Warner in the Senate in 2016, will help provide a smoother and safer commute for Virginia and D.C. area residents after years of repairs, lane closures and weight restrictions. The nearly 90-year old Arlington Memorial Bridge, which is one of several transportation infrastructures operated by the National Park Service (NPS), had not undergone a major overhaul since first opening in 1932.\r\nIn 2015, we were warned that Memorial Bridge  a critical artery between Virginia and the nation's capital  was literally falling apart, said Sen. Warner. Today's reopening is a testament to years of work by the region's congressional delegation, our local partners, and the National Park Service. Commuters can now rest easy knowing that this nearly 90-year-old landmark will carry them safely over the Potomac for years to come.\r\nIn 2016, Sen. Warner first spearheaded a years-long effort to secure funding to rehabilitate Arlington Memorial Bridge after NPS revealed that without a $250 million rehabilitation, the bridge would not be safe for traffic by 2021.\r\nIn April 2016, Sen. Warner led several of his National Region Congressional colleagues in pushing for regional collaboration to submit a FASTLANE grant application for the Arlington Memorial Bridge Rehabilitation Project. The FASTLANE program was established as part of the bipartisan transportation bill passed by Congress in 2015, which included grant funding specifically set aside for nationally significant freight and highway projects, such as the Arlington Memorial Bridge. Sen. Warner successfully led a Virginia and D.C. delegation effort, with the support of D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, to submit a FASTLANE grant application, along with NPS, that would support repairs for Arlington Memorial Bridge.\r\nThen, in December 2017, the National Park Service announced it had secured full funding for the $227 million project of rehabilitating Arlington Memorial Bridge, including a $90 million FASTLANE grant attained by Sen. Warner. Additionally, Sen. Warner fought on the Senate floor to secure inclusion of an additional $30 million in the FY2017 appropriations bill for the project. The additional $30 million helped condense the project from two phases into one, saving taxpayers $35 million and shaving 18 months off construction time.\r\nSen. Warner's legislation to tackle the $12 billion nationwide backlog of deferred NPS maintenance projects, The Great American Outdoors Act, was signed into law by President Trump earlier this year. In Virginia alone, NPS sites currently have $1.1 billion in deferred maintenance needs.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-announce-more-than-10-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-virginia-health-centers", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $10 Million in Federal Funding to Support Virginia Health Centers", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $10,022,292 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Virginia health centers.\r\nThis federal fundingwill support centers who are doing life-saving work in their communities during the ongoing health crisis,the Senators said.We're pleased to see these federal dollars go towards supporting Virginia health centers.\r\nThe following organizations will receive funding:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecipient\r\n\r\n\r\nCity\r\n\r\n\r\nAmount\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJohnson Health Center\r\n\r\n\r\nLynchburg\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,597,851\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSouthern Dominion Health Systems, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\nVictoria\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,288,427\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPeninsula Institute For Community Health, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\nNewport News\r\n\r\n\r\n$3,464,307\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nVernon J. Harris East End Community Health Center\r\n\r\n\r\nRichmond\r\n\r\n\r\n$2,648,674\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBlue Ridge Medical Center, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nArrington\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,023,033\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTotal:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n$10,022,292\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis funding was awarded through the Health Resources and Services Administration's Health Center Program, which provides funds to community-based health care providers that provide primary care services in underserved areas. These health centers must meet a stringent set of requirements, including providing care on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay and operating under a governing board that includes patients.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-announce-more-than-5-million-in-head-start-funding", "Warner & Kaine Announce More Than $5 Million in Head Start Funding for Virginia", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON -Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $5,740,241 in federal grant funding through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Head Start and Early Head Start programs throughout Virginia.\r\nThese programs are critical to help ensure that our schools and organizations across the Commonwealth have the resources they need to support our future leaders,the Senators said.We're excited to see this funding go toward promoting early childhood development.\r\nThe following organizations will receive funding:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecipient\r\n\r\n\r\nCity\r\n\r\n\r\nAmount\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAugusta County School Board\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nVerona\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,205,103\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPeople Incorporated of Virginia\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAbingdon\r\n\r\n\r\n$2,383,149\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSTEP, Inc.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRocky Mount\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,120,735\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nEastern ShoreArea Agency on Aging/Community Action Agency\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExmore\r\n\r\n\r\n$1,031,254\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTotal:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n$5,740,241\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs Governors and Senators, Warner and Kaine have advocated for investments in early childhood education. Head Start programs promote school readiness for children under 5 years old from low-income families through health, education, family support, and social services.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-kaine-join-colleagues-in-calling-for-permanent-expansion-of-telehealth-coverage-in-end-of-year-legislation", "Warner Meets With New Superintendent of Shenandoah National Park", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine joined Senator Brian Schatz and their congressional colleagues in calling for the expansion of access to telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic to be made permanent. Provisions from the CONNECT for Health Act, legislation introduced by Warner and cosponsored by Kaine, have allowed Medicare beneficiaries in all areas of the country, and in their homes, to utilize telehealth services, as well as more types of health care providers to provide telehealth, were included in previous COVID-19 legislation but will expire following the pandemic unless congressional leaders act to make those measures permanent.\r\nTelehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe, the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealth.Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over.\r\nIn their letter, the lawmakers highlight the growing use and benefits of telehealth during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, as patients seek to avoid traveling to hospitals and other providers and instead receive care at home. New data shows that the number of Medicare beneficiaries using telehealth services increased by nearly 13,000 percent in just a month and a half during the pandemic.\r\nSenators Warner and Kaine have been longtime advocates for increased access to health care throughtelehealth.In June, Warner and Kaine sent a letter to Senate leadership calling for the permanent expansion of access to telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic.SenatorKainealso introduced bipartisanlegislation in 2019toexpand health caretorural areas throughtelehealth. The bill passed out of the Senate Health, Education, Labor,andPensions (HELP) Committee as part of theLower Health Care Costs Act of 2019.\r\nThe bipartisan and bicameral Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act, was first introduced in 2016.\r\nThe full text of the letter is below and available here.\r\nDear Majority Leader McConnell, Minority Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, and Minority Leader McCarthy:\r\nAs we near the end of the year and the 116th Congress, we urge you to include provisions in end of the year legislation to make permanent expanded coverage of Medicare telehealth services. Specifically, immediate action to permanently waive geographic restrictions for originating sites, authorize health centers in rural and underserved areas to provide telehealth, and allow beneficiaries to use telehealth in their homes would be key steps to ensure much-needed certainty about Medicare telehealth coverage for health care providers and to improve access to care for patients.\r\nTelehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe. Telehealth is also important in increasing capacity at health care facilities and reducing health care providers' use of scarce personal protective equipment. For these reasons, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance at the beginning of the pandemic advising individuals and health care providers to optimize the use of telehealth services.\r\nThe Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act included provisions from our bipartisan CONNECT for Health Act to increase access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, waivers of statutory geographic and originating site restrictions have allowed Medicare beneficiaries to use telehealth services in all areas of the country, as well as in their homes. In addition, more types of health care providers including health centers in rural and underserved areas, are authorized to provide distant site telehealth services, among other important flexibilities.\r\nThis new authority resulted in a rapid increase in telehealth utilization. An early analysis of the expansion of Medicare telehealth coverage during the pandemic shows that before the public health emergency, about 13,000 beneficiaries in fee-for-service Medicare received telehealth services in a week, but by the last week of April, nearly 1.7 million beneficiaries received telehealth services. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) also found that beneficiaries are getting care through telehealth at similar rates across demographics. In response to these findings, CMS stated that, The rapid adoption of telemedicine among providers and patients has shown that telehealth is here to stay.\r\nHowever, the authority for this expanded coverage of Medicare telehealth services is temporary and tied to the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration, which is renewed in three-month increments. We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealtheven now during the pandemic. Ramping up telehealth requires significant costsincluding the purchase of equipment such as tablets and webcams, telehealth platforms, additional staff, provider training, and changes to electronic health records, billing, and patient engagement processes. Without more certainty about the future of Medicare coverage, many organizations are not investing in all of these areas to optimize the use and availability of telehealth.\r\nTherefore, Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over. We understand that further data analysis is underway to assess the impact of the telehealth changes that have been available during the public health emergency. However, to fully benefit from telehealth during the pandemic, there are steps Congress should take before the end of the year to expand access to telehealth with appropriate guardrails and beneficiary protections.\r\nIn particular, Congress should immediately provide permanent authority to waive or remove the geographic restrictions on originating sites in section 1834(m) of the Social Security Act so that a beneficiary's ability to receive telehealth services is no longer based on where he or she lives. Services that CMS has determined to be clinically appropriate to be delivered through telehealth should be available to all beneficiaries, not just some. CMS concurs, stating that The data have shown that telehealth can be an important source of care across the country, not just for those living in rural areas.\r\nWe also urge action to permanently authorize Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics to provide distant site telehealth services and to allow patients to receive clinically appropriate telehealth services in their homes. These actions would address the restrictions on originating sites that CMS has stated are the greatest barriers to the expansion of Medicare telehealth services as well as ensure that health centers can continue their pivotal role in providing health care in rural and underserved areas. \r\nTelehealth is an area of strong bipartisan support, and Congress can, and should, act now to lead the way in ensuring expanded access to telehealth. We appreciate your collaboration on this important issue.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-rubio-on-national-security", "STATEMENT: Warner, Rubio on National Security Threat Posed By China", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Acting Chairman Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA) released the following joint statement regarding the challenge posed to the United States by the Chinese government and Communist Party:\r\nWe agree with DNI Ratcliffe that China poses the greatest national security threat to the United States. Our intelligence is clear: the Chinese Communist Party will stop at nothing to exert its global dominance.\r\nBeijing's infiltration of U.S. society has been deliberate and insidious as they use every instrument of influence available to accelerate their rise at America's expense.\r\nOur democratic values are threatened by China's attempts to supplant American leadership and remake the international community in their image. The Chinese Communist Party's authoritarian leaders seek to threaten our free speech, politics, technology, economy, military, and even our drive to counter the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nUnfortunately, the United States' challenge with China is not unique as Beijing seeks to infiltrate and subvert other nations around the world, including our allies.\r\nThis is our watershed moment and we must stand our ground. The United States must not and cannot accept Beijing's quest to exert dominance, while dismissing international legal norms and committing egregious human rights abuses to further their goals.\r\nWe have made considerable progress in rebalancing the U.S.-China relationship and laying a clear marker for U.S. policy going forward, and we will not stand idly by as the Chinese Communist Party attempts to undermine our economic and national security.\r\nThe message to Beijing and the world is that China's behavior will not be tolerated and will be contested by democraticvalues, in close partnership with our allies and partners.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-celebrate-senate-passage-of-bills-renaming-hopewell-leesburg_midlothian-post-offices-after-virginians-", "Warner & Kaine Celebrate Senate Passage of Bills Renaming Hopewell, Leesburg & Midlothian Post Offices after Virginians", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 03, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Celebrate Senate Passage of Bills Renaming Hopewell, Leesburg & Midlothian Post Offices after Virginians  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine celebrated Senate passage of three bills to rename United States Postal Service (USPS) facilities in Hopewell, Leesburg, and Midlothian after three Virginians who made significant contributions to both the Commonwealth and the nation: Reverend Curtis West Harris, Norman Duncan, and Dorothy Braden Bruce.\r\nThe renaming of these post offices reflects long overdue gratitude for the work Reverend Harris, Mr. Duncan, and Mrs. Bruce accomplished throughout their lives, the Senators said. We're glad to see our colleagues support these bills that recognize the significant contributions these Virginians made in civil rights, transportation, and our military. We look forward to seeing these post offices honor these individuals who worked hard to uplift and protect our communities.\r\nThe Reverend Curtis West Harris Post Office Building in Hopewell honors the life and legacy of Reverend Curtis West Harris, who long fought for racial justice and equity. Reverend Harris served as pastor of Hopewell's Union Baptist Church for nearly fifty years, was the first African-American Mayor of Hopewell, and was also elected to serve in the Hopewell City Council from 1986 to 2012. He passed away in 2017 and was buried in Appomattox Cemetery, a site he first fought to integrate in 1960.\r\nThe Norman Duncan Post Office Building in Leesburg honors the life and legacy of Norman Duncan, a child of Jewish immigrants who was awarded the Legion of Honor for his service during World War II where he was promoted to the rank of Master Sergeant. After his service, Mr. Duncan worked in McLean as a transportation logistics specialist and advocate for minority participation in the transportation industry and was an active community member in Loudoun County. He volunteered his expertise on President Carter's National Defense Executive Reserve and consulted on transportation logistics for President Reagan's inaugural committee. He passed away in 2019, two months after attending the 75th anniversary and commemoration of the D-Day landings in Normandy.\r\nThe Dorothy Braden Bruce Post Office Building in Midlothian honors the life and legacy of Dorothy Braden Bruce, a Virginia native who served as a key codebreaker in a top-secret group with other women during World War II to help disclose locations of Japanese ships, disrupt enemy supply chains, and protect the lives of countless servicemembers. Despite Mrs. Bruce's efforts contributing to Allied success, her role was kept secret for over 70 years while she continued to serve her community in Midlothian. She passed away in 2019 after finally being publicly recognized for her role as a codebreaker in 2017.\r\nSenators Warner and Kaine have been strong supporters of the renaming efforts. They wroteto the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, the Senate Committee that oversees the USPS, encouraging them to support the bills renaming the post offices after Reverend Harris, Mr. Duncan, and Mrs. Bruce. The bills were introduced by U.S. Representatives A. Donald McEachin (D-VA), Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) respectively.\r\nThe bills designate the USPS facilities located at:\r\n \r\n117 West Poythress Street in Hopewell, Virginia as the Reverend Curtis West Harris Post Office Building\r\n15 East Market Street in Leesburg, Virginia as the Norman Duncan Post Office Building\r\n1201 Sycamore Square Drive in Midlothian, Virginia as the Dorothy Braden Bruce Post Office Building\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/scott-statement-on-re-election-as-chairman-of-education-labor-committee", "Scott Statement on Re-Election as Chairman of Education & Labor Committee", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As originally released by the Committee on Education & Labor\nWASHINGTON, DCChairman Robert C. Bobby\" Scott (VA-03) released the following statement after he was elected the next Chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor by the House Democratic Caucus.\nI am grateful to my colleagues for providing me the opportunity to continue my role as Chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor. It has been an honor to lead this Committee during a critical time in our nation's history, and to work alongside a diverse coalition of Members representing the interests of students and workers across the country.\nOur nation is enduring unprecedented challenges, with widening educational achievement gaps, a deep economic recession, and a devastating public health crisis. In my continued role as chairman, I will prioritize creating equity in education, putting America's workers first, and expanding access to quality, affordable health care.\nAs we continue to battle the COVID-19 virus, the mission of this Committee remains simple: Building an America whereeveryonecan succeed.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-applauds-house-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-big-cats", "Warner Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Protect Big Cats", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) applauded today's vote in the House of Representatives to approve theBig Cat Public Safety Act. The legislation, co-sponsored by Sen. Warner, wouldban the private ownership of big cats, such as lions, tigers, and cougars that are often kept in unsafe and inhumane conditions.The billnow awaits a vote in the Senate.\r\n\r\nEarlier this year, Americans were captivated by Tiger King,' a documentary that partly brought to light the cruel conditions that lion and tiger cubs are kept in at facilities across the country that offer photo ops and other entertainment opportunities. These exotic animals are not entertainment props. They need the care of individuals with the proper expertise and training,said Sen. Warner.This legislation is an important first step to not only protect the public, but protect theseexotic animals from being exposed to dangerous conditions. As Congress continues the critical work of tackling the health and economic crisis caused by COVID-19 and numerous fiscal deadlines, I commend the House for simultaneously passing legislation that has an impact on public safety.\r\n\r\nThe Big Cat Public Safety Actwould:\r\n \r\nMake changes to the requirements governing the trade of big cats, i.e. species of lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, jaguar, cougar, or any hybrid of such species.\r\nProhibit the possession of these big cats by individuals who are not licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).\r\nRevise restrictions on the possession and exhibition of big cats, including restricting direct contact between the public and big cats.\r\nInclude an exemption for sanctuaries, universities, and zoos.\r\nAllow current owners to be grandfathered in with conditions, such as being required to register their animals with the Fish and Wildlife Service; they are prohibited from breeding, acquiring or selling prohibited animals after the date of enactment; and they are prohibited from allowing direct contact between the public and any prohibited species.\r\n \r\n\r\nWhile twenty-one states in the U.S. currently have legislation criminalizing exotic animal ownership, there is no federal law making big cat ownership illegal. In Virginia, Gov. Ralph Northam signed into lawlegislation that is similarto theBig Cat Public Safety Act, which will take effect on July 1, 2021.\r\n\r\nTheBig Cat Public Safety Actis endorsed by many animal rights organizations, including the Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animals, and accredited big cat sanctuaries across the country. Additionally, it is also supported by law enforcement groups, including the National Sheriffs' Association, the National Animal Care and Control Association, and the Florida Animal Care and Control Association.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-rounds-jones-applaud-inclusion-of-bipartisan-anti-money-laundering-legislation-in-ndaa", "Warner, Rounds, Jones Applaud Inclusion of Bipartisan Anti-Money Laundering Legislation in NDAA", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Doug Jones (D-AL) today applauded the inclusion of their anti-money laundering legislation in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)  the nation's annual defense bill. In September 2019, the Senators introduced theImproving Laundering Laws and Increasing Comprehensive Information Tracking of Criminal Activity in Shell Holdings (ILLICIT CASH) Act to strengthen national security and help combat illicit financial activity carried out by terrorists, drug and human traffickers, and other criminals.\r\nIt is past time to put an end to the secrecy that allows drug cartels, human traffickers, arms dealers, terrorists and kleptocrats to exploit the United States' banking system in order to carry out anti-American activities. That's why I'm pleased to know that this year's defense funding bill will include our anti-money laundering legislation to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, said Sen. Warner. As the Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I know that the current holes in our financial system pose a serious threat to national security. We can patch those holes by increasing corporate transparency requirements and handing our federal agencies the 21st century tools they need to combat these 21st century threats.\r\nI'm pleased that our anti-money laundering legislation was included as a part of this year's NDAA. This bipartisan legislation protects Americans by depriving criminals and terrorists of the tools they use to finance illicit activity. It is the first serious overhaul of our anti-money laundering system in decades, and it makes sense to include it in the biggest, most important national defense legislation Congress passes each year, said Sen. Rounds.\r\nFor too long, our anti-money laundering laws haven't kept up with the rapidly evolving methods that criminals and terrorists use for illicit financial activities. Our bipartisan bill is the largest comprehensive effort in decades to improve transparency and will give prosecutors, national security officials, law enforcement, and financial institutions the modern tools they need to crack down on money laundering and terrorist financing. Its inclusion in the annual defense bill is a great step forward for the rule of law and for the security of all Americans.\r\nFor too long, our anti-money laundering laws haven't kept up with the rapidly evolving methods that criminals and terrorists use for illicit financial activities. Our bipartisan bill is the largest comprehensive effort in decades to improve transparency and will give prosecutors, national security officials, law enforcement, and financial institutions the modern tools they need to crack down on money laundering and terrorist financing. Its inclusion in the annual defense bill is a great step forward for the rule of law and for the security of all Americans, Sen. Jones said.\r\nThe NDAA text released today includes language from the Senators' ILLICIT CASH Act that will, for the first time, require that shell companies  often used as fronts for criminal activity  disclose their true owners to the U.S. Department of Treasury. It will also update decades-old anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) policies by giving Treasury and law enforcement the tools they need to fight criminal networks. This includes improving overall communication between law enforcement, financial institutions, and regulators, and facilitating the adoption of critical 21st century technologies.\r\nAccording to research from the University of Texas and Brigham Young University, the U.S. remains one of the easiest places in the world to set up an anonymous shell company. A recent report by Global Financial Integrity demonstrates that, in all 50 U.S. states, more information is currently required to obtain a library card than to register a company. Human traffickers, terrorist groups, arms dealers, transnational criminal organizations, kleptocrats, drug cartels, and rogue regimes have all used U.S.-registered shell companies to hide their identities and facilitate illicit activities. Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence and law enforcement agencies find it increasingly difficult to investigate these illicit financial networks without access to information about the beneficial ownership of corporate entities involved.\r\nAt the same time, U.S. AML-CFT laws have not kept pace with the growing exploitation of the global financial system to facilitate criminal activity. According to a United Nations Report, money laundering activity and illicit cross-border financial flows have generated upwards of $300 billion annually in criminal proceeds. While tracking these growing sums is increasingly difficult, U.S. laws have also failed to adequately address the small dollar financing of global terrorist groups.\r\nThe agreement reached as part of the NDAA includes critical elements of the ILLICIT CASH Act, including:\r\n \r\nSetting national exam and supervision priorities to improve AML-CFT outcomes and better target federal resources in the effort to identify evolving criminal and national security threats. \r\nEstablishing federal disclosure requirements of beneficial ownership information that will be maintained in a comprehensive federal registry, with strict privacy protections, accessible by federal and local law enforcement.\r\nImproving the recruitment and retention of top talent to combat money laundering and terrorism by providing special hiring authority at the Department of Treasury and FinCEN. \r\nPrioritizing innovation and technology in AML-CFT monitoring and reporting through the establishment of a new Subcommittee on Innovation and Technology, updated guidance on financial technology risk assessments, and a Financial Crimes Tech Symposium.\r\nFacilitating communication and information sharing between FinCEN, national security agencies, law enforcement and financial institutions through the establishment of new programs and reporting mechanisms. \r\nRequiring law enforcement agencies and regulators to formally review regulations within the Bank Secrecy Act to ensure regulations, guidance, reports and records are highly useful in countering financial crime.\r\nRequiring streamlined data and real time reporting of suspicious activity reports, and requiring law enforcement to coordinate with financial regulators to provide periodic feedback to financial institutions on their suspicious activity reporting.\r\nPrioritizing the protection of personally identifying information while establishing a clear path for financial institutions to share AML-CFT information for the purposes of identifying suspicious activity.\r\nPreventing foreign banks from obstructing money laundering or terrorist financing investigations by requiring these banks to produce records in a manner that establishes their authenticity and reliability for evidentiary purposes, and compelling them to comply with subpoenas. This legislation also authorizes contempt sanctions for banks that fail to comply and increase penalties on repeat BSA violators.\r\nEnsuring the inclusion of current and future payment systems in the AML-CFT regime by updating the definition of coins and currency to include digital currency.\r\n \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402394", "Ninth District Traveling Staff Office Hours for December", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "VA", "Morgan Griffith", "G000568", "morgangriffith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Griffith's Ninth DistrictSTAFFwill be available at the following locations during the month ofDecember. Traveling office hours follow the status of local government offices, which vary across the 22 counties and nine independent cities of the Ninth District. As local governments offices reopen, office hours will be resumed.\r\nIn the event of inclement weather (heavy snow, sleet, icy rain, etc.), traveling office hours may be rescheduled to avoid putting constituents at risk.If a County's or City's schools are closed, then its office hours will be closed as well. Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions or to schedule an appointment time in the event of office hour closure.\r\nDecember 8, 2020\r\nCraig County: 9:00 am  10:30 am\r\nCraig County Administration Bldg.  \r\n108 Court Street  \r\nNew Castle, VA 24127\r\nAlleghany County: 12:00 pm  1:30 pm\r\nClifton Forge Library  \r\nConference Room  \r\n535 Church Street  \r\nClifton Forge, VA 24422\r\nDecember 9, 2020\r\nScott County: 9:00 am  10:30 am\r\nCommunity Services Building  \r\nBoard of Supervisors Room  \r\n190 Beech Street  \r\nGate City, VA 24251\r\nLee County: 1:00 pm  2:30 pm\r\nLee County Sheriff's Office  \r\nConference Room  \r\n33640 Main Street  Suite U101  \r\nJonesville, VA 24263\r\nWise County: 3:15 pm  4:45 pm\r\nBig Stone Gap Federal Courthouse  \r\n3rd Floor Room 303  \r\n322 Wood Ave. E  \r\nBig Stone Gap, VA 24219\r\nDecember 10, 2020\r\nGiles County: 9:00 am  10:30 am\r\nTown of Pearisburg Offices  \r\n112 Tazewell Street  \r\nPearisburg, VA 24134\r\nDecember 15, 2020\r\nTazewell County (Richlands): 10:00 am  11:30 am\r\nTown of Richlands Offices  \r\n200 Washington Square  \r\nRichlands, VA 24641\r\nBuchanan County: 1:00 pm  2:30 pm\r\nTown of Grundy Offices  \r\n1185 Plaza Dr.  \r\nGrundy, VA 24614\r\nDecember 16, 2020\r\nCarroll County: 9:00 am  10:30 am\r\nCarroll County Administration Building  \r\nBoard of Supervisors Room  \r\n605  1 Pine Street  \r\nHillsville, VA 24343\r\nGalax: 11:30 am  1:00 pm\r\nMunicipal Building  \r\nConference Room  \r\n111 E. Grayson Street  \r\nGalax, VA 24333\r\nGrayson County: 2:30pm  4:00pm\r\nGrayson County Administration Building  \r\nBoard of Supervisors Room  \r\nSuite 206  \r\n129 Davis Street  \r\nIndependence, VA 24348\r\nDecember 17, 2020\r\nTazewell County (Tazewell): 10:00 am  11:30 am\r\nAmerican Legion Building  \r\n226 Central Avenue  \r\nTazewell, VA 24651\r\nRussell County: 1:00 pm  2:30 pm\r\nCommunity Center  \r\n72 Gibson Street  \r\nLebanon, VA 24266\r\nDecember 18, 2020\r\nFloyd County: 9:00 am  10:30 am\r\nTown of Floyd Offices  \r\n134 Wilson Street SE  \r\nFloyd, VA 24091\r\nPatrick County: 11:30 am  1:00 pm\r\nPatrick County Administration Building  \r\nConference Room  \r\n106 Rucker Street  \r\nStuart, VA 24171\r\nMartinsville: 2:00 pm  3:30 pm\r\nCity of Martinsville Municipal Building  \r\nConference Room #32, Lower Level  \r\n55 W. Church Street  \r\nMartinsville, VA 24112\r\nDecember 22, 2020\r\nNorton: 9:00 am  10:30 am\r\nCity Council Chambers  \r\n618 Virginia Avenue NW  \r\nNorton, VA 24273\r\nWise County: 11:00 am  12:30 pm\r\nBig Stone Gap Federal Courthouse  \r\n3rd Floor Room 303  \r\n322 Wood Avenue E  \r\nBig Stone Gap, VA 24219\r\nDickenson County: 2:30 pm  4:30 pm\r\nDickenson Center for Education & Research  \r\n818 Happy Valley Drive  \r\nClintwood, VA 24228\r\n** Please contact the Christiansburg Office at 540-381-5671 or the Abingdon Office at 276-525-1405 with any questions.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-joins-colleagues-in-requesting-extension-of-pandemic-unemployment-programs", "Kaine Joins Colleagues in Requesting Extension of Pandemic Unemployment Programs", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 02, 2020\n\t\t\t Kaine Joins Colleagues in Requesting Extension of Pandemic Unemployment Programs \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined hiscolleagues in urging Senate leaders to include in the next COVID-19 relief package an extension of two critical financial lifelines for Americans affected by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 crisis.\r\nCurrently, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program  which provides unemployment assistance todomestic workers, freelance workers, contractors, and other workers in alternative work arrangements  and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program which temporarily provides a 13-week extension ofbenefitsforthosewhose regular unemployment benefits have expired butare still struggling to find employment during the pandemic  are set to expire on December 26th, just one day after Christmas. Unfortunately, these programs are as vital as ever right now, withthe nation facing more than five times the number of COVID-19 cases as in the spring, and with more than twice the number of Americans participating in these programs as in the regular state unemployment system.\r\nAs the virus surges going into the winter months, the loss of benefits at this time is particularly cruel. A recent report from The Century Foundation suggests that nearly 12 million workers could lose coverage once these programs expire over the holiday. In other words, roughly 12 million American workers will lose benefits this season for a job they lost through no fault of their own,wrote the Senators in a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.For many, the knowledge of this benefits cliff will hang over them while they celebrate Christmas morning, share a meal for Christmasdinner, orobserveotherholidays with their families in the middle of what has already been a difficult and tragic year. Those who are socially distancing from their families for their safety as well as the nation's overall public health will likely experience this loss of federal financial assistance entirely alone.\r\nWhat's more, the loss of emergency benefits compounds the hardships many families are already facing in this economy. Since May, researchers have found that roughly 8 million Americans have slipped into poverty. That is the equivalent of the entire population of Virginia or Washington (as well as the combined populations of Kentucky and Oregon) falling into poverty over the span of a few months,the Senators continued.Right now, one in six adults with children report that their household did not have enough to eat in the last seven days. For Black and Latino households, that figure is roughly one in five. Still worse, nearly 30% of households with children are not caught up with their rent payments. In other words, going into this holiday season, millions of additional American families are living below the poverty line, unable to provide sufficient food for their households and likely facing evictions from their home.\r\nIn the letter, the Senators urged for these programs to be extended with additional weeks of eligibility for workers, noting that approximately 4.4 million workers will have already run out of benefits by the end of the year, with millions more exhausting their benefits next year. This includes workers in the service and arts sectors, among other industries who continue to struggle nearly nine months into the pandemic.\r\nThey also stressed the importance of significantlyreforming the nation's unemployment system in the near future so that every American can count on a social safety net during times of need.\r\nThe letter was led by Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), and also signed by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bob Casey (D-PA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Angus King (I-ME).\r\nA copy of the letter is availablehereand below:\r\nDear Leader McConnell and Leader Schumer:\r\nAs the Senate considers the next coronavirus relief package, we urge you to include extensions of the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program. We also urge you to include additional weeks of benefits for both programs. Right now, there are more than twice the number of Americans participating in these two programs combined as there are in the regular state unemployment system.[1] These workers are all facing job loss that has nothing to do with their skills, abilities, or performance.\r\nCongress created these programs to patch up the holes in our social safety net during a global pandemic. Congress stood up the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program to disburse benefits to workers who would normally not be eligible for unemployment assistance for a variety of reasons. These workers include employees with insufficient earnings or work history to qualify, domestic workers, freelance workers, contractors, and other workers in alternative work arrangements. Similarly, recognizing that most regular state unemployment programs provide only 26 weeks of coverage for workers (with some states providing as few as 12 weeks), Congress also created the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program to provide an extension of unemployment benefits to the long-term unemployed who exhaust their regular unemployment benefits. Both of these programs are set to expire on December 26th, the day after Christmas.\r\nAs the virus surges going into the winter months, the loss of benefits at this time is particularly cruel. A recent report from The Century Foundation suggests that nearly 12 million workers could lose coverage once these programs expire over the holiday.[2] In other words, roughly 12 million American workers will lose benefits this season for a job they lost through no fault of their own. For many, the knowledge of this benefits cliff will hang over them while they celebrate Christmas morning, share a meal for Christmas dinner, or observe other holidays with their families in the middle of what has already been a difficult and tragic year. Those who are socially distancing from their families for their safety as well as the nation's overall public health will likely experience this loss of federal financial assistance entirely alone.\r\nWhat's more, the loss of emergency benefits compounds the hardships many families are already facing in this economy. Since May, researchers have found that roughly 8 million Americans have slipped into poverty.[3] That is the equivalent of the entire population of Virginia or Washington (as well as the combined populations of Kentucky and Oregon) falling into poverty over the span of a few months. Right now, one in six adults with children report that their household did not have enough to eat in the last seven days.[4] For Black and Latino households, that figure is roughly one in five.[5] Still worse, nearly 30% of households with children are not caught up with their rent payments.[6] In other words, going into this holiday season, millions of additional American families are living below the poverty line, unable to provide sufficient food for their households and likely facing evictions from their home.\r\nTo address the economic hardships workers are facing during this time, these programs should be extended with additional weeks of eligibility for workers. Around 4.4 million workers will have already run out of benefits by the end of the year, regardless of their surrounding economic situation, and millions more will exhaust them next year if Congress does not add additional weeks of eligibility to both programs. We know that this virus has hit certain industries and sectors harder than others, particularly in the service sector and in the arts. Many workers need additional weeks of eligibility in these programs because demand for their services or industry has cratered during the pandemic.\r\nWe know that it was the bipartisan intention of these emergency unemployment programs to provide all workers access to a safety net during this crisis, regardless of their worker classification status. Even the U.S. Secretary of Labor, Eugene Scalia, acknowledged in a Senate Finance Committee hearing on June 9th that these are important programs. On PUA, he noted that workers were given financial support through the unemployment insurance benefit they received, which was a very good benefit for a closing economy.[7] Today, with more than 20 million Americans claiming unemployment insurance benefits in all of the programs offered,[8] we are still in the middle of an unemployment crisis. In fact, the pandemic was the main impetus for the creation of these programs in March and, right now, we are averaging over five times the number of COVID-19 cases we had in the spring. It is clear that these programs are important lifelines for workers during this crisis and need to be extended with additional weeks of eligibility.\r\nMoving forward beyond this crisis, we will need to prioritize a dramatic update and reform to our unemployment system. Congress created the PUA and PEUC programs with the knowledge that our regular unemployment program is part of a patchwork system of worker benefits, inadequate for covering a nation facing an emergency public health crisis. The patchwork nature of American benefits does not disappear at the end of this crisis. With more than twice the number of workers presently participating in programs that did not exist before the passage of the CARES Act compared to regular programs, we will need to prioritize reforming our social safety net so that every American can gain access to a support system during times of need. Our social safety net should not require an Act of Congress to serve the American public well in the face of a disaster.\r\nWe appreciate your past support for the provisions in the CARES Act that created these programs to begin with and which intended for all workers to access a basic safety net. We owe the American public the peace of mind this holiday season that Congress will continue to support them during this crisis.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/statement", "Statement of U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on GAO Report Indicating Flawed Unemployment Claim Estimates by Trump Administration", "2020-12-01", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the statement below after a government watchdog reportrevealedthat the Trump Administration has been publishing flawed estimates of the number of unemployed individuals receiving benefits each week throughout the pandemic. The report also found that the majority of states have struggled to calculate and pay Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claimants the full amount they are legally entitled to and have instead continued relying on a minimum allowable benefitequal to only $158 per week in Virginia.\r\nBack in April, I urged the Department of Labor to take the lead on national technological solutions to relieve the burden on overwhelmed state unemployment agencies. Today, nearly eight months later, we are learning that states inundated with claims have been unable to consistently report accurate information on the number of people receiving unemployment benefits. We also continue to see states paying PUA claimants based on a paltry minimum benefit rather than the full amount they deserve.\r\nThese shortcomings have real-world implications: less money in the pockets of struggling people and less reliable information for policymakers seeking to make informed decisions about how best to help them. What remains clear is that millions and millions of people are relying on the federal government to get this right. The Department of Labor needs to step up to the plate and better support states. And Congress must act to extend these life-sustaining programs.\r\nIn July, Sen. Warner introduced theEmergency Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Act,legislation to establish a $500 million emergency portable benefits fund to assist states with setting up a portable benefits program for independent workers. He is also the author of theMixed Earner Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Act, legislation to help ensure Americans who earn a living through a mix of traditional (W-2) and independent employment income (1099) can fully access the financial relief made available under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program.Earlier today, Sen. Warner led 30 Senate colleagues ina letterurging Senate leaders to include an extension of PUA and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PUEC) program, in the next COVID-19 relief package.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-colleagues-announce-bipartisan-framework-for-covid-19-relief", "Warner, Colleagues Announce Bipartisan Framework for COVID-19 Relief", "2020-12-01", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today at a press conference at the U.S. Capitol, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and a group of Democratic and Republican colleagues announced a bipartisan framework to provide emergency COVID-19 relief to American students, families, businesses, workers and health care providers during this crisis. The plan provides a path forward for bipartisan COVID-19 relief, which has been stalled since March over disputes between Democrats in the House and Republicans in the Senate and White House, and is the result of weeks of negotiations spearheaded by Sen. Warner along with Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), and Mitt Romney (R-UT).\r\nThe framework we're presenting today is the product of many hours of difficult discussions and bipartisan negotiations. As with any compromise, neither side got everything they wanted, but after months of stalled negotiations in Congress and hardship endured by the American people, this deal is nothing short of an achievement and a step in the right direction towards providing much-needed relief for families who are still struggling nearly nine months into this pandemic, said U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today. While not a full solution to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 crisis, the bipartisan agreement we've reached today will help Americans weather this winter and get through the holiday season, while providing urgent relief for small businesses, local governments, health care providers, and low-income and minority communities, among others. Frankly, it would be cruel for Congress to adjourn until the New Year while families across the nation spend the holiday unable to put food on the table. That's why today, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do the right thing and support this bipartisan effort.\r\nThe framework provides $908 billion in funding intended to provide immediate relief for the next four months. The deal includes:\r\n \r\n$160 billion for state, local and tribal governments drowning in red ink;\r\n$180 billion for unemployment insurance programs, including those set to expire at the end of the month;\r\n$288 billion for another round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses, including restaurants and performing arts venues\r\n$12 billion in support for community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) to help low-income and minority communities especially hard-hit by COVID-19, based on Sen. Warner's Jobs and Neighborhood Investment Act\r\n$45 billion for transportation, including mass transit, airlines, airports, buses and Amtrak\r\n$16 billion for vaccine development and distribution & COVID-19 testing and tracing\r\n$35 billion in relief for healthcare providers\r\n$82 billion for K-12 schools and colleges/universities \r\n$4 billion in emergency student loan relief\r\n$25 billion in emergency rental assistance\r\n$26 billion for supplemental nutrition assistance and relief for farmers and agricultural producers \r\n$10 billion for the U.S. Postal Service\r\n$10 billion for child care\r\n$10 billion for broadband \r\n$5 billion for opioid treatment \r\n \r\nAt today's press conference, Sen. Warner noted that the package sets aside $15 billion for mass transit, including Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), which announced yesterday it is projecting a $494.5 million funding gap, and without further aid from Congress will be forced to make drastic service and staffing cuts.\r\nFor all of us who live in the DC-Metro Area, we saw in the Washington Post today, that short of some relief Metro will have to lay off close to 4,000 workers over the next coming months. In addition, Metro will also end service after 9:00 pm and end service on the weekends. That will have a dramatic effect on the functions of the federal government as well as for constituents across the tristate area. So we made, I think, the right kind of investment in public transit, Warner said in his remarks on the framework at today's press conference, which are available for download at the links above.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/12/warner-wyden-lead-colleagues-in-requesting-extension-of-pandemic-unemployment-programs", "Warner & Wyden Lead Colleagues in Requesting Extension of Pandemic Unemployment Programs", "2020-12-01", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA)and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee,led30oftheircolleagues in urging Senate leaders to include in the next COVID-19 relief package an extension of two critical financial lifelines for Americans affected by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 crisis.\r\nCurrently, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program  which provides unemployment assistance todomestic workers, freelance workers, contractors, and other workers in alternative work arrangements  and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program which temporarily provides a 13-week extension ofbenefitsforthosewhose regular unemployment benefits have expired butare still struggling to find employment during the pandemic  are set to expire on December 26th, just one day after Christmas. Unfortunately, these programs are as vital as ever right now, withthe nation facing more than five times the number of COVID-19 cases as in the spring, and with more than twice the number of Americans participating in these programs as in the regular state unemployment system.\r\nAs the virus surges going into the winter months, the loss of benefits at this time is particularly cruel. A recent report from The Century Foundation suggests that nearly 12 million workers could lose coverage once these programs expire over the holiday. In other words, roughly 12 million American workers will lose benefits this season for a job they lost through no fault of their own,wrote the Senators in a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.For many, the knowledge of this benefits cliff will hang over them while they celebrate Christmas morning, share a meal for Christmas dinner, orobserveother holidays with their families in the middle of what has already been a difficult and tragic year. Those who are socially distancing from their families for their safety as well as the nation's overall public health will likely experience this loss of federal financial assistance entirely alone.\r\nWhat's more, the loss of emergency benefits compounds the hardships many families are already facing in this economy. Since May, researchers have found that roughly 8 million Americans have slipped into poverty. That is the equivalent of the entire population of Virginia or Washington (as well as the combined populations of Kentucky and Oregon) falling into poverty over the span of a few months,they continued.Right now, one in six adults with children report that their household did not have enough to eat in the last seven days. For Black and Latino households, that figure is roughly one in five. Still worse, nearly 30% of households with children are not caught up with their rent payments. In other words, going into this holiday season, millions of additional American families are living below the poverty line, unable to provide sufficient food for their households and likely facing evictions from their home.\r\nIn the letter, the Senators urged for these programs to be extended with additional weeks of eligibility for workers, noting that approximately 4.4 million workers will have already run out of benefits by the end of the year, with millions more exhausting their benefits next year. This includes workers in the service and arts sectors, among other industries who continue to struggle nearly nine months into the pandemic.\r\nThey also stressed the importance of significantlyreforming the nation's unemployment system in the near future so that every American can count on a social safety net during times of need.\r\nSens. Warnerand Wydenwerejoined on this letter by Sens.Michael Bennet (D-CO), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bob Casey (D-PA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Angus King (I-ME).\r\nFrom the start of this crisis, Sen. Warner, a former tech entrepreneur and longtime leader on labor issues affecting contractors and the contingent workforce, has pushed to expand benefits for Americans who have found themselves unemployed through no fault of their own. In March, Sen. Warnervotedin favor of $2 trillion bipartisan legislation that, among other things, expanded access to unemployment benefits for gig workers, contractors and the self-employed. In the months following the signing of the legislation, Sen. Warnerurgedstates to quickly implement federal provisions easing restrictions on emergency unemployment benefits, and called on the Department of Labor (DOL) toissueandclarifystate guidance in order to ensure that workers were able to receive benefits. He alsointroducedlegislation to help guarantee that Americans who earn a living through a mix of traditional (W-2) and independent employment income (1099) were able to fully access the financial relief made available under the PUA program. Sen. Warner is also the author ofbipartisan legislationto establish a $500 million emergency portable benefits fund, which would assist states with setting up a portable benefits program for independent workers.\r\nA copy of the letter is available here and below:\r\nDear Leader McConnell and Leader Schumer:\r\nAs the Senate considers the next coronavirus relief package, we urge you to include extensions of the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program. We also urge you to include additional weeks of benefits for both programs. Right now, there are more than twice the number of Americans participating in these two programs combined as there are in the regular state unemployment system.[1] These workers are all facing job loss that has nothing to do with their skills, abilities, or performance.  Congress created these programs to patch up the holes in our social safety net during a global pandemic. Congress stood up the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program to disburse benefits to workers who would normally not be eligible for unemployment assistance for a variety of reasons. These workers include employees with insufficient earnings or work history to qualify, domestic workers, freelance workers, contractors, and other workers in alternative work arrangements. Similarly, recognizing that most regular state unemployment programs provide only 26 weeks of coverage for workers (with some states providing as few as 12 weeks), Congress also created the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program to provide an extension of unemployment benefits to the long-term unemployed who exhaust their regular unemployment benefits. Both of these programs are set to expire on December 26th, the day after Christmas.  As the virus surges going into the winter months, the loss of benefits at this time is particularly cruel. A recent report from The Century Foundation suggests that nearly 12 million workers could lose coverage once these programs expire over the holiday.[2] In other words, roughly 12 million American workers will lose benefits this season for a job they lost through no fault of their own. For many, the knowledge of this benefits cliff will hang over them while they celebrate Christmas morning, share a meal for Christmas dinner, or observe other holidays with their families in the middle of what has already been a difficult and tragic year. Those who are socially distancing from their families for their safety as well as the nation's overall public health will likely experience this loss of federal financial assistance entirely alone.  What's more, the loss of emergency benefits compounds the hardships many families are already facing in this economy. Since May, researchers have found that roughly 8 million Americans have slipped into poverty.[3] That is the equivalent of the entire population of Virginia or Washington (as well as the combined populations of Kentucky and Oregon) falling into poverty over the span of a few months. Right now, one in six adults with children report that their household did not have enough to eat in the last seven days.[4] For Black and Latino households, that figure is roughly one in five.[5] Still worse, nearly 30% of households with children are not caught up with their rent payments.[6] In other words, going into this holiday season, millions of additional American families are living below the poverty line, unable to provide sufficient food for their households and likely facing evictions from their home.  To address the economic hardships workers are facing during this time, these programs should be extended with additional weeks of eligibility for workers. Around 4.4 million workers will have already run out of benefits by the end of the year, regardless of their surrounding economic situation, and millions more will exhaust them next year if Congress does not add additional weeks of eligibility to both programs. We know that this virus has hit certain industries and sectors harder than others, particularly in the service sector and in the arts. Many workers need additional weeks of eligibility in these programs because demand for their services or industry has cratered during the pandemic.  We know that it was the bipartisan intention of these emergency unemployment programs to provide all workers access to a safety net during this crisis, regardless of their worker classification status. Even the U.S. Secretary of Labor, Eugene Scalia, acknowledged in a Senate Finance Committee hearing on June 9th that these are important programs. On PUA, he noted that workers were given financial support through the unemployment insurance benefit they received, which was a very good benefit for a closing economy.[7] Today, with more than 20 million Americans claiming unemployment insurance benefits in all of the programs offered,[8] we are still in the middle of an unemployment crisis. In fact, the pandemic was the main impetus for the creation of these programs in March and, right now, we are averaging over five times the number of COVID-19 cases we had in the spring. It is clear that these programs are important lifelines for workers during this crisis and need to be extended with additional weeks of eligibility.  Moving forward beyond this crisis, we will need to prioritize a dramatic update and reform to our unemployment system. Congress created the PUA and PEUC programs with the knowledge that our regular unemployment program is part of a patchwork system of worker benefits, inadequate for covering a nation facing an emergency public health crisis. The patchwork nature of American benefits does not disappear at the end of this crisis. With more than twice the number of workers presently participating in programs that did not exist before the passage of the CARES Act compared to regular programs, we will need to prioritize reforming our social safety net so that every American can gain access to a support system during times of need. Our social safety net should not require an Act of Congress to serve the American public well in the face of a disaster.  We appreciate your past support for the provisions in the CARES Act that created these programs to begin with and which intended for all workers to access a basic safety net. We owe the American public the peace of mind this holiday season that Congress will continue to support them during this crisis.  Sincerely,\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/12/10/2020/warner-and-kaine-now-accepting-applications-for-us-district-judge-eastern-district-of-virginia", "Warner & Kaine Now Accepting Applications for U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Virginia", "2020-11-30", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Tim Kaine", "K000384", "www.kaine.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 30, 2020\n\t\t\t Warner & Kaine Now Accepting Applications for U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Virginia \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine are nowaccepting applicationsfor the position of U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia to succeed U.S. District Judge Liam O'Grady, who took senior status on May 1, 2020. An independent panel of lawyers assembled by the Senators will review applications and interview qualified individuals. The Senators will then use those recommendations, as well as input from bar associations and experts, as they consider potential nominees to recommend to the President. The White House will then nominate an individual to be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The nomination is subject to confirmation by the full Senate.\r\nInterested applicants should visit Senator Warner'swebsitefor application instructions. The application period will close December 18, 2020.\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", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2020/11/statement-of-sen-mark-r-warner-on-dhs-s-decision-to-release-additional-h-2b-visas", "Statement of Sen. Mark R. Warner on President Trumps NDAA veto threat over provision to rename military bases named after Confederate military leaders", "2020-11-30", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "VA", "Mark Warner", "W000805", "www.warner.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  As bipartisan negotiations continue on the final FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released a statement following President Trump's threat to veto the annual defense bill over a provision requiring the military to rename bases named for Confederate military leaders. \r\nOngoing reports that President Trump is holding up negotiations on our annual defense bill because of his objections to the renaming of Confederate bases is frankly absurd and downright dangerous. The defense bill is critical to U.S. national security, authorizing millions for military construction projects, shipbuilding, technology and innovation investments, a pay raise for our servicemembers and many other critical defense priorities. Delays in its passage undermine mission readiness and stability for our servicemembers as they tackle our national security challenges.\r\nThis annual defense bill provides much-needed stability for Virginia's critical national security footprint. In addition to the Pentagon, Virginia hosts major headquarters for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard and is home to the largest naval base in the world  Naval Station Norfolk. Defense-related spending is also critical to Virginia's economy. In fact, Virginia ranks first in the country in DoD contracts as a percentage of the state economy and second in terms of number of DoD and Coast Guard personnel. In the midst of a presidential transition, a global pandemic and growing global threats, the President should not be playing politics with our defense bill. The stakes are just too high.\r\nLast week, Sen. Warner, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, applauded the inclusion of his Improving Laundering Laws and Increasing Comprehensive Information Tracking of Criminal Activity in Shell Holdings (ILLICIT CASH) Act in this year's defense bill. The bipartisan ILLICIT CASH Act seeks to improve corporate transparency, strengthen national security, and help law enforcement combat illicit financial activity being carried out by terrorists, drug and human traffickers, and other criminals. Additional Warner-led amendments are also being considered in the final defense bill.\r\nSen. Warner is a cosponsor of the Confederate Monument Removal Act, which would remove statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. He has also spoken publicly about the need to remove public symbols honoring the Confederacy as part of broader efforts to advance racial justice.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 296, "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": "Senate", "p1": "VA", "p2": "2020"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 251, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020&party=Democrat", "selected": false}, {"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 45, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 296, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=VA&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "VA", "label": "VA", "count": 296, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 296, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2020-11-30,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ewarner~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2F2020~2F11~2Fstatement-of-sen-mark-r-warner-on-dhs-s-decision-to-release-additional-h-2b-visas", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=VA&year=2020&_next=2020-11-30%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ewarner~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2F2020~2F11~2Fstatement-of-sen-mark-r-warner-on-dhs-s-decision-to-release-additional-h-2b-visas&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 242.26765986531973, "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"}