{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"CO\" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=C2D367A1-D84A-4853-8164-97B1655AF029", "Bennet Visits Broomfield FISH, Thanks Volunteers for Supporting Food Insecure Families", "2020-12-29", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Yesterday,Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet toured Broomfield Fellowship In Serving Humanity (FISH) with Executive Director Dayna Scott and Volunteer Coordinator Sharin Oliver to learn more about the organization and thank volunteers for supporting food insecure families during a moment of great need.\r\n\r\nFrom Left to Right: U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, Executive Director Dayna Scott, Volunteer Lucia Fang\r\nDownload photos from the visitHERE.\r\nI'm grateful to Broomfield FISH for providing Coloradans in need with access to fresh, nutritious food and other services, includingrent, utility, and transportation assistance,saidBennet.No Coloradan could have predicted this crisis, and we can't expect them to endure it alone. The most recent COVID relief package includes a provision Congressman Joe Neguse and I worked on to increase the maximum SNAP benefit by 15 percent. It will help more Coloradans put nutritious food on the table. While I'm glad President Trump signed the COVID reliefinto law, this is not the end of our responsibility. When the Senate returns in January, we must be prepared to act again to provide the necessary relief to overcome this crisis.\r\nMore people than ever are facing hunger and visiting food pantries, many for the first time. We're grateful for Senator Bennet's continued support and his leadership on addressing food insecurity for households in Broomfield County, Colorado, and across the country,said DaynaScott, Executive Director of Broomfield FISH Food Bank and Family Resource Center.\r\nFeeding America projects that overall food insecurity could rise by 57 percent in BroomfieldCounty by the end of 2020, with child food insecurity increasing by 94 percent. Since March, FISH has served more than 12,000 people in Broomfield County, which is more than one in seven residents.\r\nBennet has been working to increase resources for food insecure families since before theCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)pandemic started. AprovisionfromBennet'sproposal withU.S.Congressman Joe Neguse(D-Colo.)to increase the maximumSupplemental Nutrition Assistance Program(SNAP)benefit by 15 percent wasincludedin the COVID-19relief package PresidentDonaldTrump signed into law on Sunday. This benefit increase will support families that Broomfield FISH serves and other food insecure families across Colorado and the country through June 2021.\r\nWhile this is a welcome short-term solution, Bennet and Neguse will continue to push Congress to pass theirFood for Families in Crisis Actto expand and strengthen SNAPfood assistanceby:\r\n \r\nIncreasing the maximum SNAP benefit by 15 percent, providing additional funding for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, and eliminating work requirements during recessions.\r\nTying the 15 percent increase in the maximum SNAP benefit to the economy, rather than an arbitrary date assigned by Congress.\r\nEnsuring the use of broad-based categorical eligibility so that more vulnerable families can access SNAP benefits, even outside of a crisis.\r\n \r\nAdetailed description of the plan is availableHERE.Draft legislative text is availableHERE.\r\nBroomfield FISH was founded in 1963 by a group of women from six local churches who began collecting and distributing food to those in need. In 2001, the organization became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. It has since expanded services to include a variety of resources and programs designed to help people become more self-sufficient. These programs include rent and utility assistance, transportation assistance, and one-on-one mentoring.\r\nIn 2018, FISH joined the Colorado Family Resource Center Association and became the only Family Resource Center (FRC) in Broomfield County. Currently, FISH serves residents in Broomfield County living at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. FISH works closely with the Community Food Share in Boulder and Broomfield counties, which Bennet and Negusevisited in June.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jason-crow-statement-ndaa-override-vote", "Congressman Jason Crow Statement on NDAA Override Vote", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "I cast my vote today to override President Trump's veto thinking about my time as Private Crow when I was on the receiving end of decisions made in Congress. We have a sacred obligation to our men and women in uniform and their families to make sure they have the support they need. This defense bill will give our troops a pay raise, improve military housing, and give the government the resources it needs to respond to the ongoing cyberattacks.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jason-crow-statement-support-2000-stimulus-checks", "Congressman Jason Crow Statement on Support for $2,000 Stimulus Checks", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "I called for $2,000 emergency payments since the beginning of this pandemic. I know what it's like to struggle paycheck to paycheck and not know where my next rent payment would come from. Americans are in crisis and they deserve leadership and support.\nThe President supports this, the House supports this, and now it is time for the Senate to join us as well.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/neguse-bill-to-protect-antitrust-whistleblowers-is-signed-into-law", "Neguse Bill to Protect Antitrust Whistleblowers Is Signed Into Law", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 28, 2020\n\t\t\t Neguse Bill to Protect Antitrust Whistleblowers Is Signed Into Law \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Before Christmas, legislation introduced by Congressman Neguse which would extend whistleblower protections and ensure greater accountability for criminal antitrust violations was signed into law by President Trump. This is the 7th law Congressman Neguse has enacted during his first term in Congress. Two other measures sponsored by Congressman Neguse to make adjustments to the boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park currently await signature from the President. As Vice Chair of the Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law Subcommittee, Congressman Neguse has moved several critical antitrust enforcement measures through Congress. In October, Congressman Neguse's bill to reauthorize a critical antitrust enforcement program was signed into law. Since early in the pandemic, Congressman Neguse has championed a provision to prohibit price gouging for consumers.\r\nThe bill signed last weekthe Criminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Actis bipartisan and co-led with Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI), Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law and Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law. The bill was carried by Senator Chuck Grassley in the Senate. Specifically, the bill would extend whistleblower protections to private sector employees who report criminal antitrust violations to the federal government.\r\nView Congressman Neguse's remarks on the House floor before bill passage here.\r\nFundamentally, this bill is about consumer protection. It's about protecting the public, said Congressman Joe Neguse. Before I came to Congress, I served several years in Governor Hickenlooper's cabinet, leading our state's consumer protection agencya 600 person department, civil servants from across our state working hard each and every day to protect the consuming public and the people of Colorado. The Criminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act is another tool that can be used in the toolbox of regulators here in Washington, as we work to make consumer protection a priority, and partner with those in the private sector who wish to report abuse of an anti-competitive conduct that might be happening in the broader marketplace.\r\nNo one should face retaliation for blowing the whistle on illegal anticompetitive behavior, said Chairman Nadler. By extending whistleblower protections to private employees, the Criminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act will improve the enforcement of our nation's antitrust laws and protect countless consumers nationwide from harmful activities like price and wage fixing. I commend Congressman Neguse and Senator Grassley for their work on this vital legislation.\r\nI'm pleased this bill has been signed into law. Whistleblowers who suffer retaliation after they report on criminal antitrust conduct deserve a path to reinstatement, said Congressman Cicilline. This bill ensures employees who report wrongdoing to the federal government will have that opportunity, as well as the chance to receive compensation for any harms they suffer.\r\nThe Criminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act is based on recommendations from a 2011 Government Accountability Office report. Antitrust violations often result in higher prices, less innovation, and less choice. Private sector employees are integral in maintaining the integrity of our antitrust laws, without whom violations such as price and wage fixing, would go unreported.\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-jason-crow-statement-president-trump-s-veto-ndaa", "Rep. Jason Crow Statement of President Trump\u2019s Veto of NDAA", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "To be clear, the President just vetoed the defense bill during a national security crisis because he wants to sue Twitter. Let's hope the Republicans who voted a few weeks ago for getting tough on China, giving troops a pay raise, and responding to cyber threats still think those are good ideas next week when we vote to override. Our country and our service members deserve nothing less.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-bipartisan-colorado-delegation-urge-expedited-approval-of-major-disaster-declaration-for-wildfire-recovery", "Congressman Neguse, Bipartisan Colorado Delegation Urge Expedited Approval of Major Disaster Declaration for Wildfire Recovery", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 23, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse, Bipartisan Colorado Delegation Urge Expedited Approval of Major Disaster Declaration for Wildfire Recovery \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and the entire bipartisan Colorado delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging swift support for Governor Polis's request to designate Colorado's wildfires as a Major Disaster to bring in needed recovery funds for the state.\r\nDevastating wildfires have occurred across our state, forcing evacuations, threatening air and water quality, and destroying homes and businesses. Given the historic nature of these fires and their devastating impact on our communities, we urge you to expedite the approval process so that Coloradans have access to the resources they need to respond and recover quickly,reads the letter from the delegation.The unprecedented nature of this emergency merits a swift and comprehensive response. Given the rapid escalation and urgent need for support, we request an expeditious approval of the Governor's Major Disaster declaration request.\"\r\nThree of the state's five largest fires have occurred in 2020. The East Troublesome fire grew sixfold in size in a matter of 24 hours and is the second-largest fire in state history. The Cameron Peak fire, which began burning in August, grew to over 200,000 acres  the largest fire in Colorado history. Additionally, the Grizzley Creek fire closed I-70, one of Colorado's major transportation corridors. These fires, in addition to the Middle Fork fire, Williams Fork fire, the Lefthand Canyon fire, and the Calwood Fire, caused thousands of Coloradans to evacuate and significant infrastructure damage.\r\nRead the letterhere.\r\n###\r\n\r\n\r\nDonald J. Trump  President of the United States  The White House  1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.  Washington, D.C. 20500\r\n\r\nDecember 23, 2020\r\n\r\nDear Mr. President,\r\nWe write in strong support of Governor Polis' request for an expedited Major Disaster declaration for the State of Colorado. Devastating wildfires have occurred across our state, forcing evacuations, threatening air and water quality, and destroying homes and businesses. Given the historic nature of these fires and their devastating impact on our communities, we urge you to expedite the approval process so that Coloradans have access to the resources they need to respond and recover quickly.\r\nAn unusual weather event combined with extreme drought led to the catastrophic growth of several fires throughout the state. Three of the state's five largest fires have occurred in 2020. The East Troublesome fire grew sixfold in size in a matter of 24 hours and is the second-largest fire in state history. The Cameron Peak fire, which began burning in August, grew to over 200,000 acres  the largest fire in Colorado history. Additionally, the Grizzley Creek fire closed I-70, one of our state's major transportation corridors. These fires, in addition to the Middle Fork fire, Williams Fork fire, the Lefthand Canyon fire, and the Calwood Fire, caused thousands of Coloradans to evacuate and significant infrastructure damage.\r\nThese late-season fires are not normal. Typically, October marks the beginning of winter weather patterns in Colorado. As fire seasons grow longer, the availability of resources to our local communities gets stretched thinner. The unprecedented nature of this emergency merits a swift and comprehensive response. Given the rapid escalation and urgent need for support, we request an expeditious approval of the Governor's Major Disaster declaration request.\r\nThank you for your support in this urgent matter.\r\nSincerely,\r\nCongressman Joe Neguse\r\nSenator Michael Bennet\r\nSenator Cory Gardner\r\nCongresswoman Diana DeGette\r\nCongressman Ken Buck\r\nCongressman Doug Lamborn\r\nCongressman Jason Crow\r\nCongressman Ed Perlmutter\r\nCongressman Scott Tipton \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-calls-for-change-in-federal-guidance-to-ensure-more-colorado-kids-can-access-nutrition-assistance", "Congressman Neguse Calls For Change in Federal Guidance to Ensure More Colorado Kids Can Access Nutrition Assistance", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 23, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse Calls For Change in Federal Guidance to Ensure More Colorado Kids Can Access Nutrition Assistance \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, sent a letter to the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture David Perdue urging a change in federal guidance to ensure that 190,000 Colorado children and countless others throughout the country currently unable to receive nutritional assistance, would be able to. Specifically, the letter calls for a change in the P-EBT Assistance for Children in Schools that are Closed or have Reduced Attendance guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service's (USDA) on November 16th, 2020, which stated that states could no longer address gaps in access to Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) from the Spring of 2020 by issuing previous allotments for the 2019-2020 school year to eligible beneficiaries.\r\nThis recent guidance from the Department of Agriculture runs counter to congressional intent and counter to the needs of Colorado kids and families, saidCongressman Joe Neguse.As schools shut down at the start of the pandemic, lifting up new infrastructure to get nutritional assistance in the hands of students was challenging. It's important that states be given maximum flexibility as they navigate these new circumstances. This detrimental guidance must be reversed so Colorado can support 190,000 students and distribute over $50 million in federal nutrition assistance that has not yet been accounted for.\r\nWe should be helping vulnerable children get the nutritious food they would otherwise receive in school during this healthcare crisis, saidCongresswoman Kim Schrier.Pandemic-EBT does just that. Any guidance that would restrict at-risk children from this benefit goes against congressional intent, and that is why this modification is so important.\r\nPandemic EBT has been an incredible success, bringing nearly $50 million directly to Colorado families with kids to support learning, nutrition, and food security during this challenging time. However, due to the expedited process and tight program deadlines, many eligible children did not get benefits in the first round, saidMarc Jacobson, CEO of Hunger Free Colorado.When 45% of Colorado households with children report worrying about affording food, it is crucial families have the opportunity to receive the nutrition assistance Congress intended for them.\r\nIn March 2020 the Families First Coronavirus Act created the Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) program to replace missed free and reduced-priced lunch during pandemic-related school closures. States had the option to submit plans for approval to USDA to administer this program. All fifty states, including Colorado, did so. The starkest difference between state plans was that 32states and Washington D.C. used existing free and reduced-price lunch data to automatically send benefits to eligible students, while about 18states, including Colorado, auto issued to a smaller population and required an application for remaining families. While lifting up this new program's infrastructure was challenging in all states, those that auto issued to all free and reduced-price eligible families reached significantly more eligible students, while states that relied on an application, like Colorado, fell far short of that goal.\r\nIn mid-November USDA issued new guidance disallowing states from providing benefits to households that should have received P-EBT for missed school days but did not apply in time. In Colorado, this is around 190,000 students and over $50 million in federal nutrition assistance\r\nThis guidance limits needed relief for families, harming the health and wellbeing of our communities while also slowing economic recovery,reads the letter from Neguse and Schrier. P-EBT has provided a crucial influx of resources for families struggling during the pandemic. Most families that received P-EBT spent the funds almost immediately, keeping them flowing through local economies and generating additional economic activity while relieving pressures on household budgets, thus helping families afford healthy food, pay late bills, and stay housed. Programs like this are crucial to economic recovery, which is so desperately needed during this time of crisis in our nation. Keeping those funds in the federal coffers instead of ensuring they get to the struggling families who qualify for them only slows economic recovery and leaves more households struggling to make ends meet and feed their children as they navigate remote learning. \r\nRead the letter here.\r\nBackground\r\nSince the onset of the pandemic, Congressman Neguse has worked with local, state and federal policymakers to ensure that families and children in Colorado have access to nutritional assistance opportunities and can put food on the table. This week,his proposal to increase weekly SNAP benefits by 15% was included in the COVID-19 relief package which passed the House and Senate.\r\nIn April, Congressman Neguse introduced a package of bills to ensure flexibility for SNAP and WIC to ensure accessibility amidst the pandemic. His bill, theFood and Necessities During Public Emergencies Act of 2020,would allow for SNAP benefits to be used to purchase certain durable household goods, such as diapers and cleaning products, during COVID-19 and future national emergencies. TheFood Assistance for Kids and Families During COVID-19 Act of 2020,led by Congressman Joe Neguse and Congresswoman Hayes would ensure SNAP and WIC benefits can utilize grocery store delivery services to ensure vulnerable beneficiaries can access their benefits while staying at home.\r\n\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5212", "Congressman Neguse, Bipartisan Colorado Delegation Urge Expedited Approval of FEMA Major Disaster Declaration for Wildfire Recovery", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and the entire bipartisan Colorado delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging swift support for Governor Polis's request to designate Colorado's wildfires as a Major Disaster to bring in needed recovery funds for the state.\r\nDevastating wildfires have occurred across our state, forcing evacuations, threatening air and water quality, and destroying homes and businesses. Given the historic nature of these fires and their devastating impact on our communities, we urge you to expedite the approval process so that Coloradans have access to the resources they need to respond and recover quickly, reads the letter from the delegation. The unprecedented nature of this emergency merits a swift and comprehensive response. Given the rapid escalation and urgent need for support, we request an expeditious approval of the Governor's Major Disaster declaration request.\r\nThree of the state's five largest fires have occurred in 2020. The East Troublesome fire grew sixfold in size in a matter of 24 hours and is the second-largest fire in state history. The Cameron Peak fire, which began burning in August, grew to over 200,000 acres  the largest fire in Colorado history. Additionally, the Grizzley Creek fire closed I-70, one of Colorado's major transportation corridors. These fires, in addition to the Middle Fork fire, Williams Fork fire, the Lefthand Canyon fire, and the Calwood Fire, caused thousands of Coloradans to evacuate and significant infrastructure damage.\r\n\r\nRead the letter here.\r\n###\r\n\r\n\r\nDonald J. Trump \r\nPresident of the United States \r\nThe White House \r\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. \r\nWashington, D.C. 20500\r\n\r\nDecember 23, 2020\r\n\r\nDear Mr. President, \r\n\r\nWe write in strong support of Governor Polis' request for an expedited Major Disaster declaration for the State of Colorado. Devastating wildfires have occurred across our state, forcing evacuations, threatening air and water quality, and destroying homes and businesses. Given the historic nature of these fires and their devastating impact on our communities, we urge you to expedite the approval process so that Coloradans have access to the resources they need to respond and recover quickly.\r\nAn unusual weather event combined with extreme drought led to the catastrophic growth of several fires throughout the state. Three of the state's five largest fires have occurred in 2020. The East Troublesome fire grew sixfold in size in a matter of 24 hours and is the second-largest fire in state history. The Cameron Peak fire, which began burning in August, grew to over 200,000 acres  the largest fire in Colorado history. Additionally, the Grizzley Creek fire closed I-70, one of our state's major transportation corridors. These fires, in addition to the Middle Fork fire, Williams Fork fire, the Lefthand Canyon fire, and the Calwood Fire, caused thousands of Coloradans to evacuate and significant infrastructure damage.\r\nThese late-season fires are not normal. Typically, October marks the beginning of winter weather patterns in Colorado. As fire seasons grow longer, the availability of resources to our local communities gets stretched thinner. The unprecedented nature of this emergency merits a swift and comprehensive response. Given the rapid escalation and urgent need for support, we request an expeditious approval of the Governor's Major Disaster declaration request. \r\n\r\nThank you for your support in this urgent matter. \r\n\r\nSincerely, \r\n\r\nCongressman Joe Neguse\r\nSenator Michael Bennet\r\nSenator Cory Gardner\r\nCongresswoman Diana DeGette \r\nCongressman Ken Buck\r\nCongressman Doug Lamborn\r\nCongressman Jason Crow \r\nCongressman Ed Perlmutter\r\nCongressman Scott Tipton", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5285", "Perlmutter Statement in Support of Returning Iran, U.S. to Compliance with the Iran Nuclear Agreement", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Perlmutter Statement in Support of Returning Iran, U.S. to Compliance with the Iran Nuclear Agreement  \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington D.C.,\r\n        December 23, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Washington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) released the following statement expressing support for Iran and the United States to return to compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 2015 nuclear non-proliferation agreement with Iran, otherwise known as the Iran Agreement.America is safer when we work to limit the spread of nuclear weapons and prevent conflict in the Middle East. The Iran Agreement moved us closer to these important goals. However, the Trump Administration's decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Agreement hurt the United States' credibility with allies and jeopardized our national security, said Perlmutter. The Iran Agreement provides a critical framework to reduce nuclear tensions in the Middle East, make Israel safer and less prone to nuclear conflict with Iran, and limit Iran's capacity to build nuclear bombs. While not intended to be a peace agreement or to resolve or eliminate all threats, the Agreement, through diplomacy, works to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and is a starting point to achieving long-term non-proliferation. I look forward to President Biden re-engaging with Iran and for both countries to return to the principles of the Agreement once again. In August 2015, Perlmutter supported the nuclear non-proliferation agreement with Iran as a diplomatic solution to reduce and limit Iran's ability to develop or manufacture nuclear weapons and protect Americans . In May 2018, Perlmutter opposed the decision of the Trump administration to withdraw the U.S. from the Agreement, citing concerns the move would create more chaos and uncertainty and jeopardize national security. In December 2020, Perlmutter cosigned a letter with 149 of his colleagues to then President-elect Biden to take diplomatic steps to return both Iran and the U.S. to compliance with the JCPOA. ###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=3081DB4A-E7D1-4132-B853-1B40172E00D3", "Bennet Makes Strong Case for Permanently Basing U.S. Space Command in Colorado Springs Following Virtual Community Visit", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after yesterday's virtual community visit to Colorado Springs, another step in the U.S. Air Force's process for determining the permanent headquarters of U.S. Space Command.\r\nWith our infrastructure, innovation, workforce, and commitment to the space mission, there is no better permanent home for U.S. Space Command than Peterson Air Force Base,said Bennet.Colorado Springs has a workforce prepared to meet the demands of this mission and a community that already plays a critical role in the national security space mission. Military personnel, civilians, and veterans want to live in Colorado Springs because they know we are committed to supporting them. Leaders across the state have joined together in this effort,demonstratingColorado's full commitment to the space mission.\r\nFollowing the selection of the six finalist communities in Colorado, New Mexico, Alabama, Texas, Florida, and Nebraska, the Air Force announced that they would be conducting an in-person visit to each of the sites and a virtual visit with the community. Yesterday, Governor Jared Polis, Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers, and other community leaders presented the case for why Colorado Springs is the best and only home for U.S. Space Command. The Air Force has said the final basing decision will be announced by January 2021. Peterson Air Force Base(AFB) is the current provisional headquarters of U.S. Space Command and will be until 2026.\r\nBackground\r\nIn 2019, Bennet and U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) led the Colorado Delegation inwritingto then-Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan andwritingto then-Acting Secretary of the Air Force Matthew Donovan and then-Commander of U.S. Space Command General Jay Raymond to emphasize what Colorado offers as a candidate to be the permanent home of U.S. Space Command. Bennet and Gardner also published anop-edin the Colorado Springs Gazette advocating for the basing decision. Following the White House's official announcement of the creation of U.S. Space Command in August 2019, the entire Colorado Congressional Delegationreiteratedtheir call for the headquarters to be reestablished in Colorado. In the original basing decision process, of the six possible locations named by the Air Force, four were in Colorado: Peterson AFB, Schriever AFB, Buckley AFB, and Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station. In the fall of 2019, the Air Force named Peterson AFB the temporary home to U.S. Space Command.\r\nIn December 2019, Bennet met with Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett and spoke with the Commander of U.S. Space Command General John W. Raymond todiscussthe importance of a focus on national security space and to double down on his support for basing Space Command in Colorado.\r\nIn May 2020, the Air Force announced a new basing decision processthat evaluatesself-nominating communities, like Aurora and Colorado Springs, on their ties to the military space mission, existing infrastructure capacity, community support, and cost to the Air Force. The Air Force also announced Peterson AFB in Colorado Springs would remain the provisional location of the command until 2026. Later in May, Bennet and Gardnerwrote a letterto Polis calling for him to support military spouse licensure reciprocity in the state, which Polis then signed into law in July 2020. Spouse licensure reciprocity is a component of the Air Force's evaluation of each nominating state's support for military families. Following passage of Colorado House Bill 20-1326, the entire Colorado Congressional Delegation, Polis, and Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera wrote to then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper and Barrett tohighlightthe new Colorado law and further demonstrate that Colorado is the best state to serve as the permanent home of the U.S. Space Command. \r\nIn June 2020, BennetwelcomedPolis' endorsement of the self-nomination of both the Aurora and Colorado Springs communities to compete to be the permanent home for U.S. Space Command. At the end of August 2020, the Aurora and Colorado Springs communities submitted their questionnaire responses to the Department of the Air Force completing the next step in the basing process.\r\nIn August 2020, BennetvisitedPeterson AFB and Schriever AFB for an update on the U.S. Space Command mission and stand up. He also met with General Dickinson, who assumed command in August, and learned about advancements at the National Space Defense Center.\r\nIn October 2020, Bennet visited Ball Aerospace in Boulder, Colorado, and Maxar Technologies in Westminster, Colorado, two Colorado-based companies leading the way on civilian, military, and intelligence space technology innovation, and contributing to Colorado's second to none space-aligned workforce. In October, Bennet alsovisitedthe National Reconnaissance Office's Aerospace Data Facility Colorado (ADF-C) at Buckley AFB. The team at the facility provided an update on the critical intelligence missions that call Colorado home.\r\nIn November 2020, Colorado Springs wasannouncedas a finalist for the U.S. Space Command headquarters.\r\nBennet will continue to work with Polis, the entire Colorado Delegation, the Colorado Springs community, and the many other Colorado communities who are critical to the national security space mission to demonstrate Colorado's unique position as the hub of the nation's military and intelligence space missions, robust aerospace and defense industry ecosystem, strong STEM education pipelines, and commitment to supporting veterans and military families.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=5DC56A35-B56B-47BC-87CD-66F896D24E80", "Bennet, Entire Colorado Congressional Delegation Urge Expedited Approval of Major Disaster Declaration for Wildfire Recovery", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver  Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and the entire Colorado Congressional Delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging swift approval of Colorado Governor Jared Polis's request to designate Colorado's wildfires as a Major Disaster to bring in needed recovery funds for the state.\r\nDevastating wildfires have occurred across our state, forcing evacuations, threatening air and water quality, and destroying homes and businesses. Given the historic nature of these fires and their devastating impact on our communities, we urge you to expedite the approval process so that Coloradans have access to the resources they need to respond and recover quickly, wrote Bennet and his colleagues. The unprecedented nature of this emergency merits a swift and comprehensive response. Given the rapid escalation and urgent need for support, we request an expeditious approval of the Governor's Major Disaster declaration request.\"\r\nThree of the state's five largest fires have occurred in 2020. The East Troublesome fire grew sixfold in size in a matter of 24 hours and is the second-largest fire in state history. The Cameron Peak fire, which began burning in August, grew to over 200,000 acres  the largest fire in Colorado history. Additionally, the Grizzley Creek fire closed I-70, one of Colorado's major transportation corridors. These fires, in addition to the Middle Fork fire, Williams Fork fire, the Lefthand Canyon fire, and the Calwood Fire, caused thousands of Coloradans to evacuate and significant infrastructure damage.\r\nAs Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee's Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources Subcommittee, Bennet has consistently worked in Congress to improveEmergency Watershed Protection(EWP) project deliveryurgingthe Government Accountability Office to provide recommendations for improvement andintroducingthe Making Access to Cleanup Happen (MATCH) Act with U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) to expedite cleanup and increase flexibility for local matching requirements.\r\nIn September,Bennet led U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) and U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse and Scott Tipton (R-Colo.) inurgingtheU.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to quickly approveEWP funding to mitigate and recover from wildfire damage. Days later, BennetannouncedUSDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) approved the first tranche of EWP funds for $5 million worth of projects in Colorado to mitigate and recover from wildfires. Later that month, Bennet and a group of Western Democratic senators sent a letter to Trumpaskinghim to provide additional federal assistance to improve the response to wildfires and assist the states, Tribes, and communities grappling with fires and their aftermath.\r\nIn October, Bennet joined his colleagues inaskingthe National Guard for a report on its readiness to help states prepare, fight, and recover from wildfires. Later that month, Bennet, Neguse, and Gardner sent a letter to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and USDA NRCStorequestthat they work with the State of Colorado and local governments to address the threat posedby recent fires to the region's watersheds and water supply. Bennet alsourgedSecretary of Interior David Bernhardt and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue to improve pay, job stability, and benefits for federal wildfire personnel.At the end of the month, BennetvisitedGrandandLarimercounties to meet with local officials and first responders to assess the damage from the East Troublesome fire and the Cameron Peak fire.\r\nLast month, Bennet led Wyden, Gardner, and U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) in two lettersrequestingthat the Senate Committee on Appropriations include federal funding to support wildfire recovery efforts in the West in the end-of-year appropriations.\r\nThe text of the letter is available HERE and below.\r\nDear Mr. President,\r\nWe write in strong support of Governor Polis' request for an expedited Major Disaster declaration for the State of Colorado. Devastating wildfires have occurred across our state, forcing evacuations, threatening air and water quality, and destroying homes and businesses. Given the historic nature of these fires and their devastating impact on our communities, we urge you to expedite the approval process so that Coloradans have access to the resources they need to respond and recover quickly.\r\nAn unusual weather event combined with extreme drought led to the catastrophic growth of several fires throughout the state. Three of the state's five largest fires have occurred in 2020. The East Troublesome fire grew sixfold in size in a matter of 24 hours and is the second-largest fire in state history. The Cameron Peak fire, which began burning in August, grew to over 200,000 acres  the largest fire in Colorado history. Additionally, the Grizzley Creek fire closed I-70, one of our state's major transportation corridors. These fires, in addition to the Middle Fork fire, Williams Fork fire, the Lefthand Canyon fire, and the Calwood Fire, caused thousands of Coloradans to evacuate and significant infrastructure damage.\r\nThese late-season fires are not normal. Typically, October marks the beginning of winter weather patterns in Colorado. As fire seasons grow longer, the availability of resources to our local communities gets stretched thinner. The unprecedented nature of this emergency merits a swift and comprehensive response. Given the rapid escalation and urgent need for support, we request an expeditious approval of the Governor's Major Disaster declaration request.\r\nThank you for your support in this urgent matter.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=8A4BDF8C-1164-41EA-B5AD-EF81C0B514C8", "Bennet Builds Support for Outdoor Restoration Force Act", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced building support for his Outdoor Restoration Force Act, new legislation to create jobs by investing in our natural infrastructure -- our public lands and water -- through collaborative forest health, wildlife habitat, and watershed restoration projects across the West. Since introduction last week, Coloradans, westerners, and national organizations have expressed their support for the bill as a solution to the challenges facing our forests, watersheds, and wildlife.\r\nThis is a great first step in recognizing and acknowledging the problem that was created over 30 years ago. The lack of proactive management and the hands-off' approach is now clearly having devastating effects on our communities, forest heath and sustainable watersheds. This bill addresses this problem, provides much needed funding, and hopefully is the beginning of a new era in resource management.  Merrit Linke, Grand County Commissioner and Club 20 Chair\r\nThe Colorado River District's highest priority is to protect the water security of Western Colorado. Water security starts with our forests. Our largest source of water is the snowpack that develops in our forests above 9,000 feet in elevation, mostly on federal lands. Sen. Michael Bennet's $60 billion Outdoor Restoration Force Act proposal is a direct water security initiative through the funding of proactive watershed protection actions. These actions would help prevent catastrophic fires and start restoration work where warming temperatures and fires have already done harm. It's noteworthy that $20 billion will be available to fund projects generated at the state and local levels. We applaud Senator Bennet for advocating for important western priorities in the Senate.  Andy Mueller, General Manager, Colorado River District\r\n\"This legislation is vital to the health and safety of our mountain communities which have been ravaged by drought and wildfires in recent years. The health of our forests is important to our drinking water -- and that of millions of people across the Southwest -- as well as for our recreation-based economy. We have the most visited forests in the United States and they desperately need active restoration.\"  Jon Stavney, Executive Director, Northwest Colorado Council of Governments\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act is critically important to our outdoor recreation economy, and our wildfire mitigation and restoration work. This common sense bill provides long needed prevention management, needed jobs and will save taxpayer dollars as we adapt to climate change realities and the massive costs of fighting wildfires, and rebuilding infrastructure.  Karn Stiegelmeier, Summit County Commissioner\r\nWhile the City of Glenwood Springs was fortunate enough to be saved from the flames of the Grizzly Creek Fire, Glenwood Canyon and our watersheds were deeply impacted. Even before the fire was significantly contained by the Incident Management Team, we knew our City would struggle with providing clean water to our residents for years to come. Being able to access the assistance available in the Outdoor Restoration Force Act to reduce fire risk and funding to increase restoration and resiliency would be lifesaving for my city and throughout the West.  Jonathan Godes, Mayor of Glenwood Springs\r\nThe San Juan Headwaters Forest Health Partnership commends Senator Bennet and his team for visiting local communities, talking with stakeholders, and getting boots on the ground while developing the Outdoor Restoration Force Act. The bill highlights a cross-boundary, watershed approach to land management and includes local voices and collaborative efforts. It advances applications of science to land management planning and activities and strives to promote the social, ecological, and economic wellbeing of communities.  Dana Hayward, Partnership Coordinator for San Juan Headwaters Forest Health Partnership\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act would make investments in forests and watersheds that align with the mission of conservation corps to employ and create career pathways for young men and women with outdoor jobs protecting waterways, communities and our outdoor economies from wildfire, drought and other natural disasters.  Rob Spath, CEO, Conservation Legacy.\r\nWe all live in a watershed. The investment delivered by this legislation will protect and enhance the American way of life. This meaningful effort is the leadership that we need at this crucial time to keep our rivers healthy and flowing. A focus on the local level is the most effective way to strengthen our communities as we tackle the problems that we face in the years to come.  Ben Beall, Board of Directors, Friends of the Yampa\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act is exactly what Southwest Colorado needs to achieve the pace and scale in forest restoration that we have been preparing for. We have three forest health collaboratives across the San Juan Forest and adjacent communities. We have been selected as the focal area for the Rocky Mountain Restoration Initiative (RMRI) planning treatments on 300,000 acres over the next 10 years for community wildfire resilience, water, wildlife and recreation. Wood products businesses have taken root to produce commercial value that will help underwrite our efforts. We are participating in Statewide RMRI efforts in Workforce Development and Biomass Utilization and Shared Stewardship. We have made active use of the Southwest Conservation Corps. The Outdoor Restoration Force Act will contribute essential funding and policy support that will catalyze the capacity that we have built.  Mike Preston, Water Representative, Steering Committee, Southwest Colorado RMRI\r\nColorado communities derive extraordinary economic and social benefits from the ongoing health and beauty of our natural environment. Respecting this heritage, the Outdoor Restoration Force Act aims to strengthen our economy in diverse, collaborative, and sustainable ways that fit the particular context of our communities. We thank Senator Bennet for his leadership in supporting this legislation that supports the natural environment as well as the economy of local communities.  Chris Romer, ACE, President & CEO, Vail Valley Partnership\r\n\"As a Colorado River headwaters-based organization working to protect local streams, Eagle River Watershed Council sees firsthand the impacts of climate change and drought on our streams and surrounding lands. These streams provide the water we drink, support the diverse wildlife we value and fuel the recreation we all love as well as the economy that is based upon them. The funds provided through the Outdoor Restoration Force Act, if passed, would broaden the capacity of local nonprofits and government, as well as their partners in federal agencies, to find real solutions to complex problems that are only getting bigger. The Act, which also creates new jobs at a time when unemployment is at an all-time high, could help to strengthen our local, natural resource-based economy.\"  Holly Loff, Executive Director, Eagle River Watershed Council\r\nWe appreciate Sen. Bennet's strong leadership on these issues - forest health, invasive species control, and Western wildlife--which are so important to farmers and ranchers throughout the West. We recommend paying particular attention to the importance of water generated in watersheds. We look forward to working with him further as this important legislation is vetted and refined.  Patrick F. O'Toole, President of the Board, Family Farm Alliance\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act would provide critical funding to expand forest restoration projects in Colorado and across the West. Through our leadership in the Rocky Mountain Restoration Initiative, the need for both increasing the scale of forest restoration and creating critical workforce capacity have become apparent, and this bill addresses both. This bill will help the partner organizations of the Rocky Mountain Restoration Initiative address the four core values of: water, healthy wildlife and forests, robust recreation opportunities and resilient communities. Senator Bennet's bill provides a path to addressing these important natural resource concerns while also creating jobs and bolstering rural economies. The National Wild Turkey Federation is proud to support this timely piece of legislation, and we look forward to working alongside the Senator to see it enacted into law.  Becky Humphries, CEO, National Wild Turkey Federation\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act will restore our public forests, rangelands and watersheds, while creating good-paying jobs and empowering local and Tribal leaders to advance restoration and resilience projects. Restoration of our public lands is key to combating our nation's wildlife crisis, maintaining clean air and water, protecting public health, and mitigating the effects of climate change. This common-sense legislation will get Americans back to work while putting our nation on the road to recovery from the impacts of the global pandemic.  Tracy Stone-Manning, associate vice president for public lands at the National Wildlife Federation\r\nAs the largest regional park system in the nation and established with the assistance of Civil Conservation Corps, the Outdoor Restoration Force Act would provide significant funding to reduce wildfire threats, restore wetlands, and nature-based infrastructure. During the pandemic, parks and nature have been an essential outlet and now is the time to reinvest in local communities and create new jobs.  Robert Doyle, General Manager, East Bay Regional Park District (California)\r\nThe bill is also supported by Colorado State Department of Natural Resources, Western Resource Advocates, Western Landowners Alliance, Audubon Rockies, the National Audubon Society, and Russell George, a lifetime citizen of Western Colorado and former elected and appointed public servant.\r\nBackground:\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act would establish a $60 billion outdoor restoration fund to dramatically increase funding available for restoration and resilience projects across the country. The bill establishes a national advisory council to advise on funding priorities, coordinate with regional entities, and administer grants - giving a voice to local governments, industry leaders, conservation groups, and experts on restoration and resilience. Eligible entities, which include state, local, and tribal governments, would have the opportunity to apply for funding to plan, implement, and monitor collaborative restoration projects that create jobs and address shared priorities. A portion of the fund is also made available to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Department of the Interior (DOI), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to supplement popular and proven restoration and resilience programs at the agencies.\r\nThe Outdoor Restoration Force Act would:\r\n \r\nEmpower local leaders by making $20 billion available to state and local governments, tribes, special districts, and non-profits to hire individuals who can plan, implement, and monitor restoration and resilience projects. Empowering local leaders that have an ability to bring diverse voices to the table is the path for progress in the West.\r\n \r\n \r\nSpur federal investment by providing $40 billion to popular and proven conservation and restoration efforts across the USDA, DOI, and EPA to ensure that the federal government is a willing and able partner to support forest health, watershed restoration, and climate resilience projects across public and private land boundaries.\r\n \r\n \r\nCreate or sustain over two million good-paying jobs, primarily in rural areas, to support existing industries like agriculture and outdoor recreation, while providing new opportunities for communities to address long-standing concerns and draw in new business.\r\n \r\n \r\nSave landowners and local governments money by investing in mitigation, which can be 3 to 6 times more cost effective than recovering from natural disasters like wildfires or floods.\r\n \r\n \r\nGenerate over $156 billion in economic output, with a return of up to $15 for every dollar spent on restoration, while upgrading our natural infrastructure - forests, watersheds, and rangelands - for the millions of people whose livelihood, health, and wellbeing rely on them.\r\n \r\nThe bill text is available HERE. A one-pager is available HERE. The section-by-section is available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-pro-choice-leaders-urge-biden-take-immediate-steps", "Congressional Pro-Choice leaders urge Biden to take immediate steps to protect reproductive rights", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus \u2013 led by U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee and (D-CA) and Diana DeGette (D-CO) \u2013 sent a letter to President-elect Joe Biden outlining the steps they hope his administration will immediately take to \"preserve, protect, and advance sexual and reproductive health\" for everyone in the U.S. and around the world.\n\nIn the letter, which was co-signed by all nine Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chairs, the Congressional pro-choice leaders said the House's pro-choice majority in the upcoming Congress \"presents a unique and timely opportunity\" to protect American's reproductive rights. And they called on the president-elect to use his executive authority to undo many of the actions taken by the Trump administration in recent years to curtail Americans' access to abortion services.\n\n\"The Caucus serves as the first line of defense against anti-choice legislation and regulations,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"We are committed to protecting and advancing sexual and reproductive health and stand ready to partner with your administration on policies, regulations, and budgets to ensure that all people are free and equal to exercise bodily autonomy.\"\n\nIn their letter to Biden, the lawmakers outlined several actions they want the incoming administration to take immediately \u2013 including issuing an executive order to, among other things:\n\nRevoke the Global Gag Rule;\n\nLift the FDA's in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone, a medication used to safely and effectively end an early pregnancy or treat an early miscarriage.\n\nProhibit states from blocking family planning providers that also provide abortions from participating in Title X;\n\nExpand U.S. foreign assistance support for abortion care to the maximum extent allowed under the Helms amendment, namely by immediately clarifying that funds can be used to support abortion care provided in cases of rape, incest or life endangerment of the pregnant person;\n\nRescind the Trump Administration's birth-control coverage exemption rules, which allow virtually any employer to refuse to cover birth control for their employees, contrary to the ACA;\n\nRescind the Trump Administration's \"Refusal of Care\" rule, which invites many individuals and entities to withhold health care services and information from patients without regard for the patient's wellbeing;\n\nRescind the Trump Administration's \"Public Charge\" rule, which discourages immigrants from accessing basic services and public programs; and\n\nRescind the 1303 abortion coverage rule, which requires separate billing and payment transactions for abortion coverage provided under certain ACA health plans.\n\nThe lawmakers also called on the incoming administration to:\n\nRe-enter the United States into the World Health Organization;\n\nDisband the Commission on Unalienable Rights\n\nRestore funding to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA)\n\nReverse the Trump Administration's restrictions on biomedical research that involves fetal tissue; and\n\nHalt all non-final regulations that will limit access to health care, including reproductive health care.\n\nIn addition to DeGette and Lee, the letter was signed by: Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Jackie Speier (D-CA), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Katherine Clark (D-MA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Judy Chu (D-CA), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Norma Torres (D-CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-pro-choice-leaders-urge-biden-to-take-immediate-steps-to", "Congressional Pro-Choice leaders urge Biden to take immediate steps to protect reproductive rights", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. The Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus  led by U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee and (D-CA) and Diana DeGette (D-CO)  sent a letter to President-elect Joe Biden outlining the steps they hope his administration will immediately take to preserve, protect, and advance sexual and reproductive health for everyone in the U.S. and around the world.\n\nIn the letter, which was co-signed by all nine Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chairs, the Congressional pro-choice leaders said the House's pro-choice majority in the upcoming Congress presents a unique and timely opportunity to protect American's reproductive rights. And they called on the president-elect to use his executive authority to undo many of the actions taken by the Trump administration in recent years to curtail Americans' access to abortion services.\n\nThe Caucus serves as the first line of defense against anti-choice legislation and regulations, the lawmakers wrote. We are committed to protecting and advancing sexual and reproductive health and stand ready to partner with your administration on policies, regulations, and budgets to ensure that all people are free and equal to exercise bodily autonomy.\n\nIn their letter to Biden, the lawmakers outlined several actions they want the incoming administration to take immediately  including issuing an executive order to, among other things:\n\n Revoke the Global Gag Rule; \n\tLift the FDA's in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone, a medication used to safely and effectively end an early pregnancy or treat an early miscarriage.\n\tProhibit states from blocking family planning providers that also provide abortions from participating in Title X;\n\tExpand U.S. foreign assistance support for abortion care to the maximum extent allowed under the Helms amendment, namely by immediately clarifying that funds can be used to support abortion care provided in cases of rape, incest or life endangerment of the pregnant person;\n\tRescind the Trump Administration's birth-control coverage exemption rules, which allow virtually any employer to refuse to cover birth control for their employees, contrary to the ACA;\n\tRescind the Trump Administration's Refusal of Care rule, which invites many individuals and entities to withhold health care services and information from patients without regard for the patient's wellbeing;\n\tRescind the Trump Administration's Public Charge rule, which discourages immigrants from accessing basic services and public programs; and\n\tRescind the 1303 abortion coverage rule, which requires separate billing and payment transactions for abortion coverage provided under certain ACA health plans.\n \nThe lawmakers also called on the incoming administration to:\n\n Re-enter the United States into the World Health Organization;\n\tDisband the Commission on Unalienable Rights\n\tRestore funding to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA)\n\tReverse the Trump Administration's restrictions on biomedical research that involves fetal tissue; and\n\tHalt all non-final regulations that will limit access to health care, including reproductive health care.\n \nIn addition to DeGette and Lee, the letter was signed by: Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Jackie Speier (D-CA), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Katherine Clark (D-MA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Judy Chu (D-CA), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Norma Torres (D-CA).\nTo read the full text of the lawmakers' letter to the Biden Administration,click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lawmakers-question-tobacco-companies-use-covid-19-pandemic-market-e", "Lawmakers question tobacco companies\u2019 use of COVID-19 pandemic to market e-cigarettes", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 A bicameral group of federal lawmakers \u2013 led by U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) and U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) \u2013 sent letters to some of the nation's largest tobacco companies demanding more information on the companies' exploitation of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to market their vaping products to youth.\n\nThe move comes in response to a recent study done by a group of public health experts at Stanford University that found numerous tobacco companies \u2013 including several subsidiaries of British American Tobacco and Philip Morris International \u2013 have chosen to take advantage of the ongoing public health emergency to promote the sale of their products.\n\nSeveral companies, according to the study, offered to provide customers with essential items that were in short supply \u2013 such as hand sanitizer, face masks and toilet paper \u2013 as free gifts with the purchase of a vaping product to increase their revenue during the crisis.\n\nIn a series of letters sent today to British American Tobacco, Philip Morris, the Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission, the lawmakers demanded the companies provide them more information on their use of the COVID-19 pandemic to market their e-cigarette products, and demanded more information from federal regulators on what, if any, enforcement actions they are taking in regards to the companies' advertisements.\n\n\"This attempt to profit off the back of a global health crisis, reminiscent of decades of false and misleading advertising about cigarettes by tobacco companies, represents a callous indifference to the lives and well-being of millions of people across the world,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"These advertisements are a blatant exploitation of a pandemic that has killed nearly two million people across the world and devastated the lives of countless more. They are reckless and endanger millions, especially as countries around the globe are experiencing yet another surge in cases.\"\n\nResearchers at Stanford University who conducted the study reviewed over 300 COVID-themed e-cigarette advertisements and found tobacco companies \"have chosen to exploit a global pandemic for marketing purposes.\"\n\nTheir report found, among other things, that tobacco companies' ads falsely claimed that vaping was not associated with an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. And those ads, according to the researchers, appear to have been specifically targeted to underage users on various social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter - a potential violation of federal law.\n\nTo better understand the companies' potentially abusive promotional activities during the pandemic, the lawmakers requested copies of the companies' advertisements, a list of their subsidiaries that distribute their products, internal documents discussing the company's COVID-19 advertisement practices, and any communications with federal public health officials regarding the content of these advertisements.\n\nThe FDA and the FTC are, together, responsible for the oversight and regulation of unfair, deceptive, and potentially harmful advertisements.\n\nIn their letter to the two agencies, the lawmakers requested more information on the agencies' enforcement authority related to e-cigarette advertisement and promotional activities, whether the agencies have received complaints regarding of e-cigarette or vaping products during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to what extent the agencies have communicated with e-cigarette manufacturers regarding their promotional activities during the pandemic.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lawmakers-question-tobacco-companies-use-of-covid-19-pandemic-to-market", "Lawmakers question tobacco companies use of COVID-19 pandemic to market e-cigarettes", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  A bicameral group of federal lawmakers  led by U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) and U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.)  sent letters to some of the nation's largest tobacco companies demanding more information on the companies' exploitation of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to market their vaping products to youth.\nThe move comes in response to a recent study done by a group of public health experts at Stanford University that found numerous tobacco companies  including several subsidiaries of British American Tobacco and Philip Morris International  have chosen to take advantage of the ongoing public health emergency to promote the sale of their products.\nSeveral companies, according to the study, offered to provide customers with essential items that were in short supply  such as hand sanitizer, face masks and toilet paper  as free gifts with the purchase of a vaping product to increase their revenue during the crisis.\nIn a series of letters sent today to British American Tobacco, Philip Morris, the Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission, the lawmakers demanded the companies provide them more information on their use of theCOVID-19 pandemic to market their e-cigarette products, and demanded more information from federal regulators on what, if any, enforcement actions they are taking in regards to the companies' advertisements.\nThis attempt to profit off the back of a global health crisis, reminiscent of decades of false and misleading advertising about cigarettes by tobacco companies, represents a callous indifference to the lives and well-being of millions of people across the world, the lawmakers wrote. These advertisements are a blatant exploitation of a pandemic that has killed nearly two million people across the world and devastated the lives of countless more. They are reckless and endanger millions, especially as countries around the globe are experiencing yet another surge in cases.\nResearchers at Stanford University who conducted the study reviewed over 300 COVID-themed e-cigarette advertisements and found tobacco companies have chosen to exploit a global pandemic for marketing purposes.\nTheir report found, among other things, that tobacco companies' ads falsely claimed that vaping was not associated with an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. And those ads, according to the researchers, appear to have been specifically targeted to underage users on various social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter - a potential violation of federal law.\nTo better understand the companies' potentially abusive promotional activities during the pandemic, the lawmakers requested copies of the companies' advertisements, a list of their subsidiaries that distribute their products, internal documents discussing the company's COVID-19 advertisement practices, and any communications with federal public health officials regarding the content of these advertisements.\nThe FDA and the FTC are, together, responsible for the oversight and regulation of unfair, deceptive, and potentially harmful advertisements.\nIn their letter to the two agencies, the lawmakers requested more information on the agencies' enforcement authority related to e-cigarette advertisement and promotional activities, whether the agencies have received complaints regarding of e-cigarette or vaping products during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to what extent the agencies have communicated with e-cigarette manufacturers regarding their promotional activities during the pandemic.\nA copy of the lawmakers' letter to FDA & FTC ishere, the letter to Philip Morris ishere, and the letter to BAT ishere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-neguse-statement-on-covid-19-relief-deal", "Congressman Joe Neguse Statement on COVID-19 Relief Deal", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 22, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Joe Neguse Statement on COVID-19 Relief Deal \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman JoeNegusehelped secure passage of a COVID-19 economic stimulus package which will provide emergency relief to struggling families, unemployed Americans, schools, and small businesses ahead of the expiration of many programs at the end of the year. CongressmanNeguseissued the following statement on the vote:\r\nEconomic relief for American families, businesses and local governments is long overdue. In our state, and across the country, the economic impacts of the pandemic have placed tremendous financial burden on families and communities, leaving far too many out of work, unable to pay rent, put food on the table or keep their businesses open. Today I voted to pass a long overdue economic stimulus to provide emergency relief to support the American people, as many programs are set to expire at the end of the year. The package includes an extension of enhanced unemployment benefits, direct economic payments, funds for small businesses, schools, nutrition assistance programs, transit, rental assistance and vaccine distribution.\r\nGetting relief into the hands of Coloradans and Americans quickly is essential. However, we must continue our work to ensure we are meeting the scale and urgency of this crisis with continued assistance for Americans. In the new year, I hope to see the Senate and the House return to the negotiating table on another package that fully meets the needs of all Americans. While the pandemic continues to take lives and bring tremendous hardship on our economy, we must continue to provide the funds and resources required to help the American people weather this crisis.\r\nThe COVID-19 relief bill includes:\r\n \r\nAn extension of enhanced unemployment, an additional $300 a week for those unemployed;\r\n$600 direct cash assistance payments for Americans;\r\n$284 billion in additional funds for Paycheck Protection Program small business loans;\r\n15% increase in SNAP, a provision CongressmanNegusefought for since the beginning of the pandemic;\r\n$82 billion for schools;\r\n$27 billion in transit relief;\r\n$25 billion for rental assistance and an eviction moratorium;\r\n$10 billion for child care; and\r\nfunds for vaccine distribution, among other items.\r\n  \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/neguse-bennet-proposal-to-provide-15-snap-increase-included-in-covid-19-relief-package", "Neguse, Bennet Proposal to Provide 15% SNAP Increase Included in COVID-19 Relief Package", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 22, 2020\n\t\t\t Neguse, Bennet Proposal to Provide 15% SNAP Increase Included in COVID-19 Relief Package \n\t\t\tCongressman Neguse's proposals to help small businesses, protect individuals without homes and provide relief for Head Start child care facilities also included in the package\r\nWashington D.C.Congressman Joe Neguse and Senator Michael Bennet's proposal to ensure a 15% increase per month in SNAP nutrition assistance has been included in the COVID-19 relief deal passed by the House and Senate last night.\r\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has exposed serious deficiencies in our ability to protect the most vulnerable of our society during economic crises, and has left 1 in 3 Coloradans food insecure saidCongressman Neguse.An increase in SNAP will provide needed nutrition assistance to vulnerable Coloradans and kids, and assist with long term economic stability. Since the onset of the pandemic, I have advocated for increased federal funding in this program to support hungry families and our vulnerable communities. I'm glad to see our proposal incorporated into the relief package and hope to see help in the hands of Coloradans quickly.\r\nAs the COVID-19 crisis has so clearly brought to light, we are doing too little to provide a basic safety net for the millions of struggling families across the country, saidSenator Bennet.We've called for a 15 percent SNAP benefits increase since April, and I'm pleased it was included in the bipartisan agreement on additional COVID relief. As the economic fallout from the pandemic continues, this increase in these benefits will provide nutritional assistance to our nation's most vulnerable families, particularly our children.\r\nToo many Colorado families are struggling to put food on the table because of this pandemic. We are relieved to see Congress finally increase SNAP benefits so that more families have the food needed to stay healthy and safe during the next few challenging months, saidMarc Jacobson, CEO of Hunger Free Colorado.We hope this increased assistance will be continued until our economy is fully recovered. Thank you to Senator Bennet and Representative Neguse for their leadership in securing this crucial support for Colorado families.\r\nIn April, Congressman Neguse and Senator Bennet, introduced theFood for Families in Crisis Actto provide a 15% increase for SNAP, along with other provisions to strengthen the program. Both Congressman Neguse and Senator Bennet have beenvocal advocates for the program.The COVID-19 relief package, which passed the House and Senate last night, includes a 15% increase in SNAP monthly benefits and assistance for SNAP online Purchasing: providing $5 million for technical support to USDA in expanding the SNAP online purchasing program.\r\nThe bipartisan, bicameral relief bill includes several Colorado priorities, in addition to the SNAP increase, proposals introduced by Congressman Neguse, including:\r\n \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/neguse-proposal-to-end-surprise-billing-for-air-ambulance-services-included-in-end-of-year-spending-package-", "Neguse Proposal to End Surprise Billing for Air Ambulance Services Included in End of Year Spending Package", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 22, 2020\n\t\t\t Neguse Proposal to End Surprise Billing for Air Ambulance Services Included in End of Year Spending Package  \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Congressman Joe Neguse's proposal to end surprise billing for air ambulance services has been included in the bipartisan, bicameral surprise billing agreement No Surprises Actand incorporated into the end of year omnibus spending package which passed the House and Senate last night. The proposal takes patients out of the middle of disputes and charges associated with required emergency care provided by air ambulance services, and ensures that no one with health insurance is receiving surprise bills of hundreds of thousands of dollars after an emergency rescue.\r\n\r\nI'm incredibly grateful to see our common-sense proposal to end surprise billing for air ambulance services included in this bipartisan, bicameral agreement, saidCongressman Joe Neguse. Eliminating surprise billing for air ambulance services will ensure that our rural and mountain communities can obtain the emergency care they need without being buried in bills for services they may not have agreed to or received unknowingly. Action on surprise billing is long overdue, and this agreement will protect all Coloradans, by ensuring fairness in disputes between insurers and providers.\r\n\r\nIn 2019, through the leadership of Governor Polis and Colorado's legislative leaders, we ended surprise billing for health care plans regulated by the state, saidColorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway.But, because of laws in place at the federal level, our state law wasn't able to end the insidious practice of surprise billing for many employer-based health care plans and for bills Coloradans received from air ambulance companies. The No Surprises Act' closes those gaps, and I am extremely thankful to Rep. Neguse for his leadership to ensure that all Coloradans are protected.\r\n\r\nFrom 2012 to 2016, the cost of a medical ride in a helicopter or airplane climbed 60%, an average of $39,000 per ride.\r\n\r\nSeveral other Neguse-led Colorado priorities were also included in the end of year spending package, including:\r\n \r\n$125 million for low or no emission bus grants,as requested by Congressman Neguse and local communities in the 2nd Congressional District;\r\nReport language which instructs the Departments of Interior and Agriculture to conduct a study on soil health and carbon sequestration efforts, as outlined in Congressman Neguse's bipartisan SOIL Act;\r\n$5.27 billion for the Wildland Forest Management Program,as outlined in Congressman Neguse's 21st Century Conservation Corps for Our Health and Our Jobs Act;\r\nAn increase of $173 million for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act,Congressman Neguse is also co-leading legislation to fully fund IDEA;\r\n$7 million for affordable textbooks pilot program,asoutlined in Congressman Neguse's Affordable College Textbooks Act;\r\n$614 million for NOAA Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research Funding,including Congressman Neguse's request for a funding increase;\r\n$500,000 for U.S. Department of Agriculture-led investigations into animal cruelty crimes and language directing the U.S. Department of Justice to prioritize prosecution of these crimes,key components of Congressman Neguse's bipartisan legislation theAnimal Cruelty Enforcement Actintroduced this summer;and\r\nA mandated phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a powerful greenhouse gas, by 85% by 2036. This was originally included in theAmerican Innovation and Manufacturing Leadership Act of 2020,which Rep. Neguse was a cosponsor of.\r\n  \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=AA1F457B-3E89-48D9-B162-A4AE044F0C16", "Bennet, Tipton Celebrate Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Yucca House National Monument", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and U.S. Representative Scott Tipton celebrated Senate passage of their bill to expand Yucca House National Monument. The bill, which would modify the boundary of Yucca House National Monument to incorporate a 160-acre private landowner donation,passedthe U.S. House of Representatives in February and now heads to the president's desk to be signed into law.\r\nYucca House National Monument has a rich history as a community center for the Ancestral Puebloan people, and it is one of our state's most important archaeological sites,said Bennet.We're grateful to the landowner, Bernard Karwick, who through his incredible generosity and patience has made this monument expansion possible, protecting ancient dwellings and improving public access to the site for generations to come. I look forward to the president signing this bill into law.\r\nI am incredibly pleased that we were able to facilitate this land donation to further protect the archaeological sites and cultural heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo. H.R. 1492 is an example of the importance of local support and bipartisanship when it comes to public lands designations. The bill passed the House Natural Resources Committee, full House, and Senate with broad bipartisan support, and it's only because of a strong bipartisan effort within the Colorado delegation that we are sending it to the president's desk. I look forward to seeing the bill signed into law,said Tipton.\r\nThe Yucca House National Monument Expansion Act expands the Yucca House National Monument from 33.6 acres to nearly 194 acres, improving public access and protecting important cultural sites by authorizing the acquisition of a generous landowner donation and modifying the monument boundary accordingly. Established in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson, the Yucca House National Monument is already one of the largest archeological sites in Southwest Colorado. The site dates back to the Great Pueblo Period. From A.D. 1150 to 1300, it was an important community center for the Ancestral Puebloan people. The existing national monument includes around 600 rooms, 100 kivas (round, underground rooms), several towers, multiple plazas, and one great kiva.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=CCC7F0BE-5DB8-4818-872A-5F2ED1E618ED", "Bennet, Neguse Proposal to Provide 15% SNAP Increase Included in COVID-19 Relief Package", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Colorado U.S Senator Michael Bennet and U.S. Representative Joe Neguse's proposal to ensure a 15 percent increase per month in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) nutrition assistance has been included in the latest Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) relief package passed by the Senate on Monday.\r\nAs the COVID-19 crisis has so clearly brought to light, we are doing too little to provide a basic safety net for the millions of struggling families across the country, said Bennet. We've called for a 15 percent SNAP benefits increase since April, and I'm pleased it was included in the bipartisan agreement on additional COVID relief. As the economic fallout from the pandemic continues, this increase in these benefits will provide nutritional assistance to our nation's most vulnerable families, particularly our children.\r\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has exposed serious deficiencies in our ability to protect the most vulnerable of our society during economic crises, and has left 1 in 3 Coloradans food insecure, said Neguse. An increase in SNAP will provide needed nutrition assistance to vulnerable Coloradans and kids, and assist with long term economic stability. Since the onset of the pandemic, I have advocated for increased federal funding in this program to support hungry families and our vulnerable communities. I'm glad to see our proposal incorporated into the relief package and hope to see help in the hands of Coloradans quickly.\r\nToo many Colorado families are struggling to put food on the table because of this pandemic. We are relieved to see Congress finally increase SNAP benefits so that more families have the food needed to stay healthy and safe during the next few challenging months, said Marc Jacobson, CEO of Hunger Free Colorado. We hope this increased assistance will be continued until our economy is fully recovered. Thank you to Senator Bennet and Representative Neguse for their leadership in securing this crucial support for Colorado families.\r\nThe COVID-19 relief package includes a 15 percent increase in SNAP monthly benefits and assistance for SNAP online Purchasing, providing $5 million for technical support to USDA in expanding the SNAP online purchasing program. The 15 percent increase in SNAP benefits in the bill reflects what Bennet and Neguse proposed in April and have fought to include for the last seven months. Both Bennet and Neguse have been vocal advocates for the program this year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=D719C37F-B50C-451B-BFC2-A5805AEFED24", "Bennet Statement on Senate Approval of COVID-19 Relief in Government Spending Bill", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Tonight, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the statement below following Senate passage of a bipartisan package that includes a new Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) relief bill, an omnibus spending bill, and several other pieces of legislation:\r\nI have called for the Senate to pass additional relief since May, and we should not have waited seven months to act while families, frontline workers, and small businesses faced severe hardship through no fault of their own. This is an important step but it's not the end of our responsibility. The country faces hard months ahead as we work to distribute the vaccine and get the economy back on track. When the Senate returns in January, we must be prepared to act again to provide the necessary relief to overcome this crisis.\r\nThe Senate passed the bill91-7,following an overwhelming bipartisan vote in the House of Representatives tonight. The final package reflects several priorities Bennet has pushed for since the beginning of the pandemic in March.\r\nBennet's priorities in the COVID-19 relief bill include:\r\n \r\nDirect Payments:The bill provides a one-time direct payment of $600 to most Americans to help offset lost income and cover essential expenses. While this payment is smaller than Bennet would have preferred, it includes important modifications from the previous direct payments in theCARES Act. Specifically, it ensures that children receive the same level of direct payment as adults, and it includes children and adults in mixed-status immigrant families both for these payments and those authorized in theCARES Act. Bennet and several colleagues havecalledfor recurring direct payments since March.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport for the Unemployed:The bipartisan agreement provides an 11-week extension of emergency unemployment programs  including Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) for the self-employed and gig workers, as well as extended benefits through the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program for all workers. Importantly, it waives the 13-week waiting period for Extended Benefits (EB) that wrongly cut off 16,000 Coloradans from benefits at the end of November. Bennet worked closely with Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado Congressional Delegation to secure this important language. The agreement also includes an additional $300 per week on top of regular unemployment benefits for the 11-week extension. SinceMarch,Bennet has urged even stronger support for the unemployed.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport for Small Businesses: The bill includes $325 billion in new small business support through an additional round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), more funding for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), and support for the hardest-hit businesses like concert venues, movie theaters, and cultural institutions through the Save Our Stages Act. Importantly, this assistance is better targeted to the hardest-hit small businesses, including through another $12 billion in funding for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), along with a set-aside for businesses with fewer than 10 employees so they can access funding without having to compete with larger businesses.Bennet is disappointed the agreement did not include the fullRESTART Act,his bipartisan proposal with U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) with 60 cosponsors to support the hardest-hit businesses. However, the inclusion of the Save Our Stages Act, which Bennet supported; the improvements to PPP; and the support for CDFIs, MDIs, and the set-aside for the smallest employers reflect some of the core principles of the RESTART Act Bennet has championed since May.\r\n \r\n \r\nInvestments in Health: The bill provides $69 billion for the public health and health care system to respond to the COVID-19 crisis, including roughly $20 billion to procure vaccines and therapeutics, nearly $9 billion to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and states for distribution, and more than $3 billion for the Strategic National Stockpile. New vaccination support funding includes $300 million specifically designated for high-risk and underserved areas, including communities of color. The bill also provides over $22 billion in direct funding for states to support testing, tracing, and COVID-19 mitigation programs, including $2.5 billion specifically targeted for underserved areas, including rural areas and communities of color. This funding will provide a critical bridge for public health agencies until the next Congress, when Bennet will work with the incoming Biden Administration to pass hisHealth Force proposalwith U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.).\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport for Education and Other State and Local Efforts:The bipartisan agreement includes $82 billion for education  including $54 billion for K-12 schools and nearly $23 billion for higher education. It also includes $45 billion for transportation to support public transit, Amtrak, airports, and other critical transport needs. Bennet fought for substantial fiscal relief for state and local governments, which Senate Republicans blocked. Bennet strongly believes the Senate should provide fiscal support to state and local governments early next year.\r\n \r\n \r\nEmergency Rental Assistance: In addition to extending the national eviction moratorium for another month, through January 31, 2021, the bill includes $25 billion in emergency rental assistance to help cover past and future rent payments for those facing economic hardship from the pandemic. Even before the pandemic, many families faced eviction and homelessness as rents rose faster than incomes. For this reason, Bennet crafted the bipartisanEviction Crisis Actwith U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Todd Young (R-Ind.). The core of that legislation is emergency rental assistance.\r\n \r\n \r\nIncreased Support for Food Assistance:The bill includes $13 billion for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), food banks, and other support to provide nutrition to families, children, and seniors. The 15% increase in SNAP benefits in the bill reflects whatBennet and U.S. Representative Joe Neguse (D-Colo.) proposedand have fought to include for the last seven months.\r\n \r\n \r\nInvestments in Broadband: The bill provides $3.2 billion to provide low-income and recently unemployed households with a new $50 monthly benefit to purchase broadband, with a $75 benefit for eligible households on Tribal lands. This new program is based on thebillBennet co-sponsored in June. The bill also provides funding to overhaul federal broadband maps and provides $1 billion for broadband access on Tribal lands, both of which mirror provisions in Bennet'sBRIDGE Act,which he introduced this June with U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine).                 \r\n \r\n \r\nSupport for Low-Income Families and Workers:The package allows low-income workers and families to choose to use either their 2019 income or their 2020 income to determine their Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), so those whose incomes declined in 2020 do not see income from these tax credits decline as well. This change will provide more than $4 billion to some of the most vulnerable families and frontline workers.\r\n \r\nBennet's other priorities in the package include:\r\n \r\nEnding Surprise Medical Bills:The bill includes provisions similar toa bipartisan proposalBennet introduced last May with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Bennet launched abipartisan working groupin 2018 to work on solutions to increase transparency and lower health care costs for patients, which led to the bipartisan legislation.\r\n \r\n \r\nSimplifying Student Aid:The final agreement simplifies the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by making it easier to apply for aid and making aid amounts more predictable. Bennet and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.)have worked on this since 2014.Specifically, this bill reduces the number of questions on the form from 108 to 36 by having the application use family income data verified by the IRS. The bill also expands outreach and improves the application process for students transitioning out of foster care and students experiencing homelessness.\r\n \r\n \r\nModernizing Drug Labels:The bill includes a bipartisan proposal Bennetintroducedin June 2019 with U.S. Senator Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.) and firstintroducedin September 2018 with former U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) to authorize the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to modify outdated drug labels to reflect relevant new information.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting Colorado's Rural Hospitals:The bill provides a five-year extension for the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program, which provides cost-based reimbursement for small rural hospitals that are too large to be Critical Access Hospitals, providing years of financial certainty and more appropriate Medicare reimbursement for these rural providers. This affects five hospitals in Colorado, including Delta County Memorial Hospital, Yampa Valley Medical Center, Montrose Memorial Hospital, Valley View Hospital, and St. Anthony Summit Medical Center. Bennetco-authoredthis bill with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).\r\n \r\n \r\nInvesting in Clean Energy & Fighting Climate Change:The bill provides nearly $2.9 billion in funding, a record, for the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy--including fully funding Colorado's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) facilities and infrastructure. The bill also provides $3.75 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to assist families with energy costs. The bill extends numerous energy tax credits that will help create jobs, spur investment, and tackle climate change. The bill also includes a number of energy bills Bennet cosponsored, including a landmark bill to phase-out climate-warming hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and the Public Lands Renewable Energy Development Act, which improves permitting and sets national goals for siting renewable energy on public lands.\r\n \r\n \r\nStopping Invasive Species and Restoring Ecosystems:The bill incorporates parts of Bennet's bipartisan bill, theStop the Spread of Invasive Mussels Act,to ensure that funding for watercraft inspection stations can also be used for decontamination, and requires that inspection stations be placed in locations with the highest likelihood of preventing the spread of invasive species. The bill also supports flood risk management and ecosystem restoration projects in Denver and Adams Counties.\r\n \r\n \r\nRemediating and Cleaning Up Harmful Chemicals:The bill adds $91 million for Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances(PFAS) remediation, research, and disposal of aqueous film-forming foam for total funding of $227 million. The bill also reauthorizes the Cheney Disposal Site in Grand Junction, Colorado through Fiscal Year 2031.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting the Arkansas Valley Conduit:The bill provides over $8 million for the Arkansas Valley Conduit. Bennet hasrepeatedly foughtfor increased funding for this project.\r\n \r\n \r\nDeploying High-Speed Broadband:The bill includes $635 million in funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) ReConnect program to support deployment of high-speed broadband in unserved and rural communities. Bennet has advocated for increased ReConnect funding as a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting Colorado's Military Bases:The bill includes $88 million for construction of the Consolidated Space Operations Facility at Schriever Air Force Base (AFB); $28 million for the physical fitness facility at Fort Carson, along with nearly $16 million for the Tactical Equipment Maintenance Facility; and $15 million for the National Guard Readiness Center at Peterson AFB. Bennet advocated for inclusion of each of these funding lines. Notably, the Consolidated Space Operations Facility is set for groundbreaking next summer and will support the National Space Defense Center at Schriever AFB.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting Our Intelligence Community:The agreement includes the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, which the Senate Select Committee on Intelligenceapprovedon a 14-1 vote in June. The bill ensures that the Intelligence Community (IC) can continue its vital work while Congress maintains oversight. It includes aBennet provisionto enhance U.S. capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI) and secure semiconductor supply chains by mapping vulnerabilities and identifying opportunities for collaboration with partners and allies, and assess trends in compute power of adversarial nations. It also includes aBennet provisionto bolster open source intelligence capabilities across the IC by requiring a comprehensive strategy and data management plan.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupporting Affordable Housing:The package creates a permanent 4% rate floor on the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which Bennet has long advocated for to provide reliable financing for additional affordable housing. This is projected to support an additional 126,000 affordable homes and 157,000 jobs over the next decade.\r\n \r\n \r\nBolstering Our Food Supply:The agreement includes $13 billion to support farmers, ranchers, processors, and distributors across the country. This includes loans and grants to help producers respond to the changing market conditions and COVID-19-related health and safety needs. It also provides $28 million to support farmer and rancher mental health, and provides $60 million for grants to small meat and poultry processing facilities to upgrade their facilities and expand their markets, drawing on legislation Bennet cosponsored.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-jason-crow-statement-emergency-coronavirus-relief", "Rep. Jason Crow Statement on Emergency Coronavirus Relief", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Tonight Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO) voted for the Coronavirus relief package which provides over $900 billion in critical relief.\nAs I walked up the Capitol stairs and cast my vote today, the words of the thousands of Coloradans I've heard from during this pandemic echoed in my mind. The stories of dying loved ones, bankrupt businesses, exhausted healthcare workers, and lost life savings. Coloradans need help and this bill should have been passed months ago, said Congressman Crow.\nI grew up knowing what it felt like to struggle month to month. That fear and anxiety of not knowing where the next rent check would come from. Working a shift at Arby's or a 14-hour day on the construction site and still not making ends meet. That's why I'm voting for this bill. As imperfect as it is, it will help provide relief for the millions of families and small businesses who simply can't wait any longer. I didn't come to Congress to play politics with people's lives. I came here to find a path to progress, and that's what I will continue to do.\nEarlier today, Congressman Crow spoke on the House floor in support of the bill and his efforts to ensures COVID relief care and benefits are accessible by all communities, regardless of immigration status. Footage of his remarks can be found HERE.\nThe bill also includes Rep. Jason Crow's Increasing Access to Capital Act. Crow's bill expands and bolsters the Small Business Administration (SBA) flagship loan programs by waiving administrative fees and temporary fee elimination for the 504 Loan Program.\nElements of the COVID relief bill include:\n Accelerating vaccine distribution and crushing the coronavirus: The bipartisan COVID relief package provides billions in urgently need funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers.\n\tStrong support for small business: The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grants which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street.\n\tRental assistance: Secures $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium.\n\tDirect payment checks: Secures new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, also ensuring that mixed-status families receive payments.\n\tStrengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families.\n\tEmployee Retention Tax Credit: The agreement extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers in the jobs during coronavirus closures or reduced revenue.\n\tEnhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Averts the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work.\n\tNutrition assistance for hungry families: $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure.\n\tEducation and child care: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, and $10 billion for child care assistance to help get parents back to work and keep child care providers open.\n\tGlobal Health: An additional $3.36 billion for a total of $4 billion for GAVI, the international vaccine alliance, recognizing that we are not truly safe until the whole world is safe from the coronavirus.\n # # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-degette-statement-house-passing-900-billion-covid-19-relief-bill", "Rep. DeGette statement on House passing $900 billion COVID-19 relief bill", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Following is a statement from U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) on the House voting to approve a $900 billion coronavirus-relief package:\n\n\"The short-term relief that this bill will provide to millions of families is important, but it doesn't do nearly enough to provide everyone with the support they need to get through this crisis.\n\n\"While this bill increases unemployment benefits for those who lost their job, extends the current ban of evictions and foreclosures for those who are behind on their rent and mortgage payments, and provides most Americans with another round of direct stimulus payments \u2013 there is still so much more that Congress needs to do to help our communities.\n\n\"Recognizing the urgent needs of this country, in May, the House passed the HEROES Act which would have given $3 trillion in aid for our citizens, small businesses, and state and local governments. It's inexcusable that Senate Republicans spent months refusing to even work with us on a broader bill. It never should have taken Congress this long to provide the American people with the help they need.\n\n\"We are in the midst of one of the worst public health crises our nation has ever seen. It's time for every member of Congress to put aside their petty partisan differences and find a way to work together to provide the American people the help they need to weather this storm.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-degette-statement-on-house-passing-900-billion-covid-19-relief-bill", "Rep. DeGette statement on House passing $900 billion COVID-19 relief bill", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Following is a statement from U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) on the House voting to approve a $900 billion coronavirus-relief package:\nThe short-term relief that this bill will provide to millions of families is important, but it doesn't do nearly enough to provide everyone with the support they need to get through this crisis.\nWhile this bill increases unemployment benefits for those who lost their job, extends the current ban of evictions and foreclosures for those who are behind on their rent and mortgage payments, and provides most Americans with another round of direct stimulus payments  there is still so much more that Congress needs to do to help our communities.\nRecognizing the urgent needs of this country, in May, the House passed the HEROES Act which would have given $3 trillion in aid for our citizens, small businesses, and state and local governments. It's inexcusable that Senate Republicans spent months refusing to even work with us on a broader bill. It never should have taken Congress this long to provide the American people with the help they need.\nWe are in the midst of one of the worst public health crises our nation has ever seen. It's time for every member of Congress to put aside their petty partisan differences and find a way to work together to provide the American people the help they need to weather this storm.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguses-bipartisan-bills-to-expand-rocky-mountain-national-park-pass-the-senate", "Congressman Neguse\u2019s Bipartisan Bills to Expand Rocky Mountain National Park Pass the Senate", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 21, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse's Bipartisan Bills to Expand Rocky Mountain National Park Pass the Senate \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.This weekend, two bills introduced by Congressman Joe Neguse to expand Rocky Mountain National Park passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support. The Rocky Mountain National Park Boundary Modification Act would allow former NASA astronaut and Longmont, Colorado native Vance D. Brand to donate 40 acres to Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Rocky Mountain Ownership Correction Act would correct a longstanding error regarding a local family's cabin that was mistakenly transferred to the park. Both bills enjoy bipartisan, bicameral support, with Congressman Lamborn co-sponsoring both House bills, and Senators Gardner and Bennet championing the bills in the Senate.\r\nThese bills will expand and protect one of our most treasured and historic national parks, one that I am proud is located within Colorado's Second Congressional District. People from all over the world are drawn to Rocky Mountain National Park to experience nature and partake in outstanding recreational activities. It is a place that holds deep meaning for many Americans, and especially Coloradans, saidCongressman Neguse.I was thrilled to have both bills pass out of the House earlier this month and am glad to see the Senate following suit to take swift action. These bills now head to the President's desk and I implore him to sign them so we can deliver for our communities in Colorado and honor Vance Brand's request.\r\nIn July, the House Natural Resources Committee Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands held a legislative hearing on H.R. 5458 and H.R. 5459, during which Congressman Neguse and former astronaut Vance. D. Brand testified in support of the bills. In September, the Committee voted to send both bills to the full House for consideration.\r\nView the Congressman's remarks during the House vote earlier this monthhere.\r\nBackground\r\nFormer U.S. astronaut Vance D. Brand is voluntarily donating a 40-acre tract to Rocky Mountain National Park. The property is located adjacent to the eastern boundary of the park and would add additional protection for the park's high-elevation ecosystem. This parcel of land would also provide recreational access and connectivity through a scenic, natural buffer between private lands and three popular trails; Estes Cone, Storm Pass, and Eugenia Mine Trails. These three trails connect to and are part of a large trail network offering hundreds of miles of trails to the park's 4.5 million annual visitors.\r\nThe National Park Service (NPS) is working with the Forsyth family to resolve a 1972-73 issue where a 0.18-acre plot containing their family cabin was erroneously transferred to the Rocky Mountain National Park when the NPS purchased a larger surrounding parcel. An error in the bank documents' legal description of the parcel mislocated the family's holding as a 0.18-acre plot of vacant land inside the parcel, not the original cabin site. The Forsyth family, seeking to regain legal ownership of its cabin and the 0.18-acre plot on which it sits, proposed an exchange of properties. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5202", "Perlmutter Applauds Passage of Long Overdue COVID Relief", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington D.C.  U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) today applauded the passage of H.R. 133, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act.While additional relief should have come months ago, I'm glad Congress reached agreement on a COVID relief package to extend several programs such as rental assistance, student loan deferment, and small business funding while providing support for individuals and families through direct payments and unemployment assistance, said Perlmutter. This package will also support our healthcare system to ensure efficient distribution of the vaccine and continued expansion of testing as well as funding for our education system to support kids getting back to in-person learning. As the pandemic continues to surge across much of the country, communities everywhere need additional relief as soon as possible. This package is a down payment on that relief. I'm hopeful under a new Biden administration we'll take further steps in providing relief for state and local governments which were left out due to irrational claims by Congressional Republicans, continued Perlmutter. As the vaccine is rolled out to more Americans in the coming months, I'm hopeful we can turn to more stimulative measures to rebuild our economy and continue our recovery. This COVID relief package is the sixth major package passed by Congress this year to address the needs of families, businesses, communities and our healthcare system as we combat the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Most importantly, the package includes:  \r\n Direct relief payments for individuals and families  \r\no A second round of Economic Impact Payments of $600 for individuals making up to $75,000 per year and $1,200 for couples making up to $150,000 per year as well as $600 for each dependent child. This means a family of four could receive $2,400 in direct payments.  \r\n Additional unemployment assistance to help prevent 14 million Americans from losing jobless benefits at the end of the year  \r\no Additional $300 per week for all workers receiving unemployment benefits through March 14, 2021 and extension of the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), and expanded coverage for self-employed, gig workers and other non-traditional workers.  \r\no This includes a provision allowing the continuation of the Extended Benefits unemployment program for at least 16,000 Coloradans after their benefits were turned off last month.  \r\n $325 billion in small business assistance through second draw PPP loans for the hardest hit small businesses, new EIDL Grants, continued SBA lending and loan relief, and dedicated funding for entertainment and cultural venues  \r\n $69 billion for vaccine procurement and distribution, funding for states for testing, tracing and COVID mitigation programs as well as $4.5 billion in mental health funding  \r\n $82 billion in funding for states, K-12 schools and higher education institutions  \r\n $25 billion in rental assistance and an extension of the CDC eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021  \r\n $13 billion to increase SNAP benefits  \r\n Extends deadline for state and local governments to use CARES Act funding until December 31, 2021 In addition, the package also includes all 12 FY 2021 appropriations bills and will provide certainty for federal agencies and the millions of Americans and businesses who rely on them for the rest of the fiscal year.  \r\n\r\nWe began the 116th Congress in a partial government shutdown after Congressional Republicans let funding lapse over the holidays, and I am glad we came together to negotiate strong government funding bills which invest in our country's future, said Perlmutter. These appropriations bills include important priorities for Colorado's 7th Congressional District including strong support for the National Renewable Energy Lab in Golden, continued growth for NASA and our nation's aerospace programs, and investments in scientific research. The end of year package also included several provisions which have been negotiated over the course of several years and will have a positive impact for Coloradans:  \r\n The Energy Act of 2020: Perlmutter helped secure the inclusion of two provisions to ensure the Department of Energy expands research and development of emerging renewable technologies like thin-film and perovskite for solar energy and small and medium wind turbines for micro-grid use. These provisions will help secure a cleaner energy future through research at the National Renewable Energy Lab and businesses on the cutting edge in Colorado and across the country. The bill directs the Department of Energy to conduct comprehensive clean energy research, development, demonstration, and commercialization activities key to achieving meaningful carbon pollution reduction targets as quickly as possible and supporting a clean energy economy.  \r\n Surprise medical billing: Perlmutter has been pushing for years for more transparency in healthcare costs and coverage. The No Surprises Act will end the practice of balance billing patients for unexpected costs and introduce additional transparency so patients know the costs of their healthcare.  \r\n The Water Resources Development Act is also included which authorizes projects on the South Platte River which the City of Denver and Adams County have been studying for several years.  \r\n A provision to simplify the FAFSA process for college financial assistance is also included which will make it easier for low-income students to apply for Pell Grants and other financial assistance. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1BA1CA19-408D-4EE4-8F1D-97B18D664C1F", "Bennet, Senate Democratic Colleagues Urge Incoming Biden Administration to Repeal Harmful Solar Tariffs Set by President Trump", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 11 Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter to President-elect Joseph R. Biden requesting that the incoming Biden Administration make a full repeal of the Trump Administration's harmful section 201 tariffs on imported solar photovoltaic cells and panels an early priority.\r\nIn the letter, Bennet and the senators describe how the Trump Administration's tariffs have imposed huge financial burdens on the domestic solar industry. These tariffs have come at the cost of thousands of solar jobs around the country, stifled billions in private investment, and slowed desperately needed progress in the fight to address the climate crisis.\r\nIn just three years, President Trump's tariffs have dealt a significant setback to the solar power sector, wrote Bennet and the senators. Domestic prices of solar panels are now among the highest in the world, ranging from 43 to 57 percent above the global average. According to industry estimates, as many as 62,000 solar jobs have been lost or not created and more than 10.5 gigawatts of solar capacity delayed, representing a loss of sufficient generation to power 1.8 million homes and $19 billion in investment. An additional consequence of the tariffs is that annual CO2 emissions will increase by more than 26 million metric tons, equivalent to the emissions from 5.5 million cars or 7 coal plants.\r\nBennet and the senators continued: There are more effective ways to stimulate manufacturing in the U.S. than the current administration's unjustified tariffs that have cost the country thousands of solar jobs, billions in private investment and slowed progress in addressing the climate crisis.\r\nIn addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Ben Cardin (Md.).\r\nThe text of the letter is available HERE and below.\r\nDear President-Elect Biden:\r\nWe write respectfully to request your administration make full repeal of the Trump administration's harmful tariffs on imported solar photovoltaic cells and panels an early priority. There are more effective ways to stimulate manufacturing in the U.S. than the current administration's unjustified tariffs that have cost the country thousands of solar jobs, billions in private investment and slowed progress in addressing the climate crisis.\r\nPresident Trump imposed the tariffs on imported crystalline silicon cells and panels in 2018 under section 201 of the Trade Act. The tariffs were set to last four years at an initial rate of 30 percent, declining five percent per year to 15 percent in 2021. More recently, in October the president issued a new proclamation that increased the tariffs to 18 percent in 2021 from the previously announced level of 15 percent. The president's proclamation, which would impose an additional $300 million burden on the domestic solar industry in 2021 alone, also authorized the U.S. Trade Representative to request a new investigation that could extend the tariffs beyond the four years originally levied. Unless repealed, the president's imposition of a higher tariff next year and the threat of an extension will only increase the harm already caused by these tariffs to residential and utility-scale solar installations and the solar industry as a whole.\r\nWe fully support and look forward to working with your Administration on meaningful initiatives to expand domestic manufacturing. The section 201 solar tariffs are not the way to achieve this objective. In just three years, President Trump's tariffs have dealt a significant setback to the solar power sector. Domestic prices of solar panels are now among the highest in the world, ranging from 43 to 57 percent above the global average. According to industry estimates, as many as 62,000 solar jobs have been lost or not created and more than 10.5 gigawatts of solar capacity delayed, representing a loss of sufficient generation to power 1.8 million homes and $19 billion in investment. An additional consequence of the tariffs is that annual CO2 emissions will increase by more than 26 million metric tons, equivalent to the emissions from 5.5 million cars or 7 coal plants.\r\nWe strongly support your administration's goal of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2035 as part of an agenda to address the climate crisis. Full repeal of your predecessor's tariffs will assure the solar industry can compete on equal footing with all other sources of electric power and further advance your climate and job-creation goals. We urge you to make repeal of the section 201 tariffs on solar cells and panels an early priority for the Biden-Harris administration.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=89F72D63-5C6F-4060-917E-35F91E24EB5C", "Bennet Legislation to Expand Rocky Mountain National Park Passes Senate", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet praised Senate passage this weekend of his two bills to expand and improve management of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). The bills incorporate land donated by former NASA astronaut Vance D. Brand into RMNP and resolve a longstanding land ownership error.\r\nHouse companion legislation, led by U.S. Congressman Joe Neguse, passed the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month and the bills now head to the president's desk for signature.\r\nRocky Mountain National Park is a treasure of Colorado and the country, and I'm grateful the Senate approved our bills to expand it for future generations and clean up longstanding boundary discrepancies,said Bennet.I want to thank Mr. Brand for his generous donation, which will grow the Longs Peak region of the park. I look forward to seeing these bills signed into law.\r\nThese bills will expand and protect one of our most treasured and historic national parks, one that I am proud is located within Colorado's Second Congressional District. People from all over the world are drawn to Rocky Mountain National Park to experience nature and partake in outstanding recreational activities. It is a place that holds deep meaning for many Americans, and especially Coloradans,saidNeguse.I was thrilled to have both bills pass out of the House earlier this month and am glad to see the Senate following suit to take swift action. These bills now head to the President's desk and I implore him to sign them so we can deliver for our communities in Colorado and honor Vance Brand's request.\r\nI am extremely pleased that this bill has passed, I appreciate the work Senator Bennet, Senator Gardner and Congressman Neguse have done to pass this bill. This bill will enable our family's beautiful land that is so worthy of permanent protection to be added to Rocky Mountain National Park. Our family has loved that land and we are proud to donate it to the people of the United States for their enjoyment. Vance D. Brand\r\nI'm grateful for the steadfast bipartisan cooperation from Senator Bennet, Senator Gardner and Representative Neguse in getting our bill presented and through Congress. I'm completely overwhelmed with relief that this long-standing clerical issue will now be corrected. David Forsyth\r\nFormer U.S. astronaut Vance D. Brand and his family are donating a 40-acre tract to Rocky Mountain National Park. The property is located adjacent to the eastern boundary of the Park and would provide additional protection for the region's high-elevation ecosystem. This parcel of land would also provide recreational access and connectivity through a scenic, natural buffer between private lands and three popular trails: Estes Cone, Storm Pass, and Eugenia Mine Trails. These three trails connect to a larger trail network comprising hundreds of miles available to the Park's 4.5 million annual visitors.\r\nThe second bill that passed resolves a longstanding issue where a 0.18-acre plot containing a family cabin was erroneously transferred to Rocky Mountain National Park when the NPS purchased a larger surrounding parcel. Seeking to regain legal ownership oftheircabin and the 0.18-acre plot on which it sits, the Forsyth family proposed a land exchange, which is authorized in this bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=B1E76057-FD72-4BD6-A3DE-A641F6ED9E29", "Bennet Statement on Bipartisan Package for COVID-19 Relief, Government Funding Bill", "2020-12-20", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the statement below following the announcement of a bipartisan agreement for a new Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) relief and government funding package:\r\nThis bipartisan agreement will provide much-needed relief in the country's moment of crisis. Although it does not go as far as I would have liked, it will help create a bridge for our frontline health care workers, small businesses, and the unemployed until more Americans can access the vaccine. It should not have taken Washington this long to reach this agreement, and we should pass it without further delay. At the same time, we should come back in the new year prepared to work immediately on additional relief to ensure people have enough support until the pandemic and economic crisis are fully behind us. We owe that to all Americans who are enduring severe hardship in this difficult time.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-crow-statement-intelligence-hack-federal-agencies", "Congressman Crow Statement on Intelligence Hack into Federal Agencies", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Make no mistake, our nation is under assault. This ongoing cyberattack may very well be the largest in our nation's history. While we don't yet know the full extent of the damage, we know that we weren't prepared and we have our work cut out for us.\nUnfortunately we can't wait 33 days for real leadership in the White House, we need leadership now. Donald Trump, you are still the Commander in Chief. Where are you?\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-crow-stefanik-speier-call-more-accountability-capitol-hill-introduce-bill", "Reps. Crow, Stefanik, & Speier Call for More Accountability on Capitol Hill, Introduce Bill to Respond to Congressional Sexual Misconduct", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Reps. Jason Crow (D-CO) alongside Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Jackie Speier (D-CA) introduced the Prohibiting Annuities for Sexual Abusers in Congress Act to prevent a Member of Congress from collecting their taxpayer-funded retirement annuity if they are convicted of sexual abuse. The bill would add felony sexual abuse to a list of offenses including bribery, perjury, and conspiracy which are grounds for the denial of pensions for representatives and senators under the Honest Leadership and Open Government Act.\nCrow's bill is inspired by standards in the U.S. military which, under current law, servicemembers in who commit acts of sexual abuse while serving are subject to a Court Marshal. If convicted, they face a dishonorable discharge, which carries with it a series of penalties and loss of rights, including the loss of their military retired pay. As of now, public officials are not held to a similar punishment for the same offense.\nAs a soldier I learned that leadership starts with the example you set. I have long believed that members of Congress must be held to the same standard as our men and women in uniform. However current law gives a pass to those in Congress. Sexual abuse is a crime and we must ensure it is treated like one and hold those in power accountable for their actions, said Congressman Crow.\nMembers of Congress who abuse their power need to be held accountable, said Congresswoman Stefanik. This important, bipartisan bill would ensure that if a Member of Congress is convicted for sexual misconduct, the service of that Member does not garner them a taxpayer-funded pension. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to ensure we treat sexual misconduct crimes the same way that we treat other offenses like bribery, conspiracy, and other prohibited actions.\nThe Me Too Congress movement exposed the sexual harassment and discrimination that thrives in the darkness of our nation's Capitol. We've made tremendous progress to hold Members accountable for their gross misdeeds, but our work is not yet finished. Members of Congress convicted of felony sexual abuse should not profit off the taxpayer's dime with a pension, and sexual abuse should be treated the same as other misconduct that denies a pension such as bribery or perjury. This change will also ensure that Members of Congress are held to the same standard as our servicemembers, who risk losing retired pay if convicted of sexual abuse, said Rep. Speier, Co-Chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus and Chair of the House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee.\nBy amending the Honest Leadership and Open Government to include felony sexual abuse as an offense, this would:\n Ensure that convicted Members' time served as a representative or senator does not count toward their federal pension calculation;\n\tTreat sexual abuse like other abuses of congressional power while serving, like bribery, conspiracy, intimidation, fraud, witness tampering, money laundering, insider trading, or other felony offenses;\n\tApply to both the pre-1987 Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and FERS.\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-announces-winner-of-2nd-district-congressional-app-challenge-brainformation", "Congressman Neguse Announces Winner of 2nd District Congressional App Challenge: braiNformation", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 18, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse Announces Winner of 2nd District Congressional App Challenge: braiNformation \n\t\t\tLafayette, COToday, Congressman Joe Neguse announced the winner for Colorado's 2ndCongressional District Congressional App Challenge, braiNformation. This app was created by three high school students, Krupa Subramaniam and Kai Hoshijo, who attend Legacy High School in Adams 12 and Koki Gunasinghe who attends Peak to Peak Charter School in Boulder Valley School District. The app aims to educate middle and high schoolers about the brain and how mental illness and drug use can affect it.\r\nA video of the three winners explaining their app ishere.\r\nI was incredibly inspired by the innovation and creativity displayed in this year's submissions to the Congressional App Challenge, saidCongressman Joe Neguse.This year's winners not only displayed their talented coding skills, but really focused on an issue that is influencing young people in our society and developed an app that will provide tools and education to address drug addiction and mental illness. Congratulations to Krupa, Kai and Koki for their incredible work on BraiNformation.\r\nOne of the purposes of BraiNformation is to teach students about the brain and nervous system, as it is a rapidly developing field, saidKoki Gunasinghe, one of the app's designers. We also hope to promote drug and depression awareness by detailing the symptoms of depression and the effects of common drugs. Especially after the many suicides in Adams 12 Five School District, we wanted to educate students about depression warning signs through an unorthodox, yet effective means, such as an app.\r\nWhat we really wanted to do was not just discourage drug abuse blindly, but really get into the specifics, especially the scientific specifics of why people are not supposed to do these types of drugs, in order to create a healthier society, saidKrupa Subramaniam.BraiNformation was really created to educate today's youth on the main issues that are affecting our society and give more information about brain science as a whole.\r\nWe wanted to give a 3D model for those who learn visually, saidKai Hoshijoin explanation of the app and the 3D brain used to explain different neurological functions. We can also see it at different angles, as well as providing color codes so that you can memorize a brain function with a color.\r\nBraiNformation is an app made to help explain brain functions and vulnerabilities to middle and high school students, to better their understanding of mental illnesses and how different drugs can affect brain chemistry. The app has 4 different sections: one with a fact of the week about the brain, one explaining the different functions of each section of the brain, one explaining different types of illnesses that the brain can suffer from, and one explaining how different drugs and narcotics can hurt the brain.\r\nThe designers of this app were motivated to educate young people about the brain, and how to prevent damage to it throughout one's life. The designers also felt motivated to educate youth about drugs and how they can affect and damage the brain, since many young people are experiencing isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With most students taking virtual classes and not being able to socialize normally, the designers of braiNformation have found that many of their peers are turning to drugs to help them pass the time or cope with the stress of the pandemic. They hope this app can provide information to prevent young people from damaging their brains while our world goes through this event and after.\r\nBraiNformation is available on the App Store and Google Play. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-introduces-bill-to-protect-the-federal-liquid-helium-reserve-by-request-of-colorado-scientists", "Congressman Neguse Introduces Bill to Protect the Federal Liquid Helium Reserve, By Request of Colorado Scientists", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 18, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse Introduces Bill to Protect the Federal Liquid Helium Reserve, By Request of Colorado Scientists \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse, announced the introduction of new legislation, by request of scientists in the 2nd Congressional district, that would protect the Federal Liquid Helium Reserve and ensure that federal labs are not further financially burdened by the increased cost of helium.  Since 1925, Congress has maintained an underground helium storage facility outside Amarillo, Texas, which satisfies 40% of domestic helium demand. However, in 2013, Rep. Doc Hastings (R-WA) introduced and passed into law the Helium Stewardship Act, which established that the federal government must sell and/or dispose of all assets of the Federal Helium Reserve by Sept 30, 2021, with the intent that private industry oversee the helium reserve and increase production once the reserve was closed. Given that helium is already extraordinarily expensive for scientists to purchase, this would exasperate the financial burden on federal labs.  The Securing Helium for Science Act, introduced by Congressman Neguse, would put a condition of sale on whichever private entity purchases the Federal Helium Reserve, ensuring that academic users continue to be able to purchase discounted helium for the next 8 years, while the National Science Foundation ramps up a program to provide helium recyclers.  Liquid helium is crucial to American research and innovation, and utilized by many federal scientists at research labs across the 2nd Congressional District. Many who are concerned that U.S. helium shortages and the breakdown of the Federal Helium Reserve will add increased financial burden and detrimental impact on scientific research, said Congressman Joe Neguse. Our bill, Securing Helium for Science Act, will ensure that federal scientists in Colorado and across the country are able to access affordable helium by keeping the Federal Helium Reserve open past 2021 and continuing to offer discounted rates for federal researchers.  I wholeheartedly thank U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO-2nd) for his support of this important bill that will ensure that scientists can continue to conduct critical research that has implications for a broad range of fundamental and applied technologies, including NMR investigations, MRI scanners and quantum computing. said Joseph DiVerdi, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Colorado State University. APS commends U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO-2nd) for introducing this critical piece of legislation that will help ensure the scientific community has reliable access to helium for the next several years, said Phil Bucksbaum, President of the American Physical Society, Stanford University. A reliable helium supply strengthens our nation's scientific enterprise and enables discoveries that will lay the foundation for a robust economy going forward. Helium serves as an essential element to a wide variety of technologies used by scientists and engineers, including quantum computing and MRI scanners in hospitals. The U.S. scientific enterprise depends on a steady, reliable and affordable supply of helium. There is no replacement for helium. It is unique among all elements for its ability to reach ultra-cold temperatures, making it one of our nation's most-valuable, non-renewable and irreplaceable natural resources. The average price of liquid helium for academic researchers has increased by nearly 25% from 2018 to 2019 (this is on top of years of similar increases); some researchers' prices have more than tripled. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-crow-and-trahan-introduce-bill-include-modern-diversity", "Representatives Crow and Trahan Introduce Bill to Include Modern Diversity Training at the Department of Defense", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and former Army Ranger, and Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, introduced the Realizing Efforts for Military Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (REMEDI) Act to require 21st century diversity training for the Department of Defense workforce. The legislation would update outdated language to ensure diversity training at the Department of Defense is a reflection of our nation's values and promotes diversity, equality, and inclusion at the largest governmental agency. The bill is endorsed by Protect Our Defenders, Minority Veterans of America, and the Modern Military Association of America.\nThe last time the Department of Defense codified diversity training was over 20 years ago in 1996 when it added a buried note in U.S. Code. The REMEDI Act would ensure that diversity training includes programming to reduce discrimination and bias based on racism, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, and sexual identity. Crow's bill would also expand and specify that training occur on a regular basis, and include not just uniformed personnel but also civilian and contract employees. In codifying diversity training as its own section, the REMEDI Act also ensures this is a priority area for the Department of Defense.\nIn a July 2020 House Armed Services Committee hearing, Congressman Crow questioned Dr. Nate Galbreath, Deputy Director of the DoD's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, on how much time was spent training new recruits on military culture and sexual assault training. A video of the hearing can be found here.\nOne of the strengths of our military is its diversity. In Iraq and Afghanistan, I served with men and women from every corner of the country and the team was stronger for our diversity, said Congressman Crow. I believe an important function of the military is to be a standard bearer for the values of our country and to lead by example. But I also know we have a problem in our military with sexual violence, racism, and homophobia. This bill is a powerful step forward to ensure our military is a place of equality, inclusivity, and integration.\nA lot has changed in our nation and our Armed Forces over the past two decades. We now have the most diverse military that is more representative of the American people than at any point in our nation's history, but diversity training has remained largely unchanged, said Congresswoman Lori Trahan, a member of the Subcommittee on Military Personnel. The REMEDI Act will ensure that servicemembers who courageously volunteer to defend our nation and the civil servants who support them are able to do so without hiding who they are for fear of being discriminated or retaliated against. I'm grateful to Congressman Crow for his continued leadership on this important issue, and I look forward to working with him to secure a vote on our legislation.\n\"Competent diversity, equity, and inclusion training is the first line of defense in combating bigotry and violence within our military ranks,\" said Lindsay Church, Executive Director of Minority Veterans of America. \"The incoming presidential administration has signaled that all able and willing persons will be afforded the opportunity to serve their nation openly, authentically, and without fear of discrimination. To secure that assurance and to fight against rising violence within the military community, we must improve our existing training frameworks and match them with accountability. We applaud Representative Crow for the introduction of this Bill and urge our nation's elected leadership to swiftly pass this piece of legislation.\"\n\"In order to ensure all service members are treated with dignity, respect, and have the full support they need and deserve, it's critical that the Department of Defense take the necessary steps outlined in this important legislation,\" said Air Force veteran and MMAA Interim Executive Director Jennifer Dane. \"If we are going to face the threats of the next decade with a military force that reflects and draws from the rich diversity of this nation, then it's essential we identify, confront, and root out racism, homophobia, transphobia and other forms of hate. We greatly appreciate Representatives Jason Crow and Lori Trahan for their leadership in building a stronger, more inclusive force that fosters diversity and promotes inclusion.\"\nProtect Our Defenders proudly stands in support of Representative Jason Crow's Realizing Efforts for Military Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (REMEDI) Act. Our research has shown a significant disparity in the military justice system in which Black service members are up to twice as likely to be prosecuted than their white counterparts. Persons of color and women continue to be significantly underrepresented at the highest ranks and suffer lower promotion opportunities. Representative Crow's legislation strengthening diversity training is critically needed to ensure all members of the military can serve to their full potential free of discrimination. I urge Congress to pass this legislation, said Don Christensen, President, Protect Our Defenders.\nThe REMEDI Act follows Crow's work to ensure equality within the military. Earlier this month, Congressman Crow was one of the first members of Congress to call for VA Secretary Wilkie's resignation following reports that he sought to discredit a congressional aide reported being sexually assaulted at a VA facility. Earlier this fall, Congressman Crow helped introduce the bipartisan I Am Vanessa Guilln Act, which would move prosecution decisions on sexual assault and sexual harassment cases outside of the chain and establish a standalone military offense for sexual harassment. The bill also reforms the ways in which servicemembers report harassment, and the Department of Defense and Government Accountability Office evaluate cases. In September, Crow visited Fort Hood, Texas as part of a congressional delegation to investigate the Army's botched response to the disappearance and murder of SPC Vanessa Guilln and the deaths of PV2 Gregory Wedel Morales, SGT Elder Fernandes, PFC Brandon Rosecrans, and SPC Freddy Delacruz.\nCopy of the bill text can be found here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-applauds-selection-of-deb-haaland-as-secretary-of-interior-", "Congressman Neguse Applauds Selection of Deb Haaland as Secretary of Interior", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 17, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse Applauds Selection of Deb Haaland as Secretary of Interior  \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse, issued a statement following news that President-Elect Joe Biden will nominate Congresswoman Deb Haaland to serve as Secretary of Interior.\r\n\r\nI whole-heartedly applaud President-Elect Biden's historic nomination of my good friend and colleague Deb Haaland to be the next Secretary of Interior, and the first Native American Cabinet Secretary in U.S. history. The appointment of a Secretary of Interior who understands the importance of conserving our public lands, protecting our environment and tackling the climate crisis will truly benefit Coloradans and benefit our planet immensely.\r\n\r\nSecretary-Designate Haaland and I were both elected to Congress as part of the historic Class of 2018  I have greatly enjoyed serving with her on the House Natural Resources Committee, and am proud to call her a friend and treasured colleague. Throughout her time in Congress and as the Vice Chair of the Natural Resources Committee, she has fought back against the destructive acts and policies of the Trump Administration. Under her leadership, historic public lands bills including the Great American Outdoors Act and the John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation Management and Recreation Act became law. She has also been a leader on tackling the climate crisis and has significant experience working and living in Indian Country, having served Native communities as a tribal administrator and an organizer fighting for tribal voting rights.\r\n\r\nI look forward to working with Secretary-Designate Haaland and the Biden Administration to deliver important environmental priorities for Colorado, such as final passage of the CORE Act, setting a bold climate action agenda and more.\r\n\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/legislation-introduced-by-congressman-neguse-to-install-womens-suffrage-monument-is-signed-into-law", "Legislation Introduced by Congressman Neguse to Install Women's Suffrage Monument Is Signed into Law", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 17, 2020\n\t\t\t Legislation Introduced by Congressman Neguse to Install Women's Suffrage Monument Is Signed into Law \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, bipartisan legislation introduced by Congressman Joe Neguse to install the first-ever outdoor monument honoring the women's suffrage movement was signed into law by President Trump. H.R. 437 was first introduced in the House by Congressman Neguse in January of 2019, and was inspired by artist Jane DeDecker, a constituent in Loveland, who first envisioned such a monument to honor the 19th amendment and the women who led the women's suffrage movement.\r\nI am honored and delighted that this historic bill has been signed into law and that the Every Word We Utter effort can now begin in earnest to install a national women's suffrage monument in our nation's capital, said Congressman Joe Neguse. The ratification of the 19th Amendment was a historic moment in our nation's history, and the suffragists who fought to secure the right for women to vote are American heroes. This statue will honor their perseverance, commitment and the long-fought victories gained by all women. The monument will be a special site for future generations of Coloradans and those from throughout the country to visit.\r\nThe Every Word We Utter Board and our supporters are beyond thrilled that Congressman Neguse's legislation empowering us to construct a monument to women's suffrage and the 19th Amendment has now become law, said Every Word We Utter President Jody Shadduck-McNally. That Congress and the president were able to come together across party lines to quickly and decisively deliver this victory for history speaks to the power of this project and the great desire to see American suffragists commemorated. We look forward now to continuing the work of this project and seeing a statue created and placed in our nation's capital.\r\nI applaud Congressman Neguse, and the entire Colorado delegation for seeing this legislation through to the end, said Loveland Sculptor Jane DeDecker. It is fitting to close this year  the centennial of women's suffrage  with this strong declaration for the history and legacy of the women's suffrage movement. Women deserve this commemoration, and the battles for equality that continue today deserve it too.\r\nOver multiple generations, women across our nation fought tirelessly for the right to vote. They lobbied, they picketed, they marched. Some were even jailed, but still they came together day after day, and year after year, to secure their rights and the rights of women yet to come, said Anna Laymon, Executive Director of the Women's Suffrage Centennial Commission. Today, our government came together to ensure the sacrifices and triumphs of the women's suffrage movement are never forgotten, nor taken for granted. We share our gratitude with the President and each of our congressional partners for this accomplishment.\r\nH.R. 437 is the 6th bill authored by Congressman Neguse that has been signed by the President in his first two years in the House of Representatives. Previous laws enacted include legislation to support rural communities through funds for education and road maintenance, a measure to protect wildlife in the Platte River Basin, legislation to adjust the boundary of Arapaho National Forest, a bill to ensure water access for the town of Minturn, Colorado and a bill to reauthorize a critical antitrust enforcement program.\r\nBackground\r\nCongressman Joe Neguse introduced H.R. 473 in January 2019 after constituents in Loveland, Colorado proposed the idea of installing the first outdoor women's suffrage monument in Washington D.C. The bill would authorize the Every Word We Utter Board, located in Loveland, Colorado, to select the design of and install the historic monument. The board aims to install a statue created by local sculptor Jane DeDecker called Every Word We Utter, which depicts Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Stanton Blatch, Alice Paul and Ida B. Wells. It's title comes from a letter Elizabeth Cady Stanton wrote to Lucretia Mott in which she said of the power of words and deeds: Every word we utter, every act we perform, waft unto innumerable circles beyond.\r\nThis legislation gained swift momentum in the House. The House Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on the bill on May 22nd, 2019 and sent the measure to the House floor on September 19th, 2019. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives with unanimous support on February 22, 2020. Senator Michael Bennet and Senator Cory Gardner sponsored the companion measure in the Senate.\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/neguse-and-curtis-unveil-plans-to-launch-bipartisan-wildfire-caucus-in-the-117th-congress", "Neguse and Curtis Unveil Plans to Launch Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus in the 117th Congress", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 17, 2020\n\t\t\t Neguse and Curtis Unveil Plans to Launch Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus in the 117th Congress \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Colorado) and Congressman John Curtis (R-Utah) unveiled plans to launch a bipartisan caucus in the 117th Congress to work collaboratively on wildfire mitigation and recovery solutions.\r\nThe Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus will seek to elevate awareness and bipartisan consensus around wildfire management and mitigation, environmental and community protections, public health and safety, and wildfire preparedness and recovery in Congress. Notably, the caucus will require that members join in equal bipartisan numbers, and will serve as a useful tool for facilitating conversations and cultivating solutions for communities facing wildfire.\r\nWildfire mitigation and response must be a year-round priority. The devastating and record-breaking nature of our wildfire season in Colorado and throughout the western U.S. this year makes that perfectly clear, said Congressman Joe Neguse. In the midst of the pandemic, when our firefighters were faced with dual crises and uncertain safety conditions, Congressman Curtis and I partnered together to introduce legislation to address these public safety concerns. The Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus will build on this bipartisan collaboration and ensure in the 117th Congress and beyond, Congress is prioritizing the needs of our local fire crews, our western communities, and fire mitigation and recovery efforts in the wake of increasingly more damaging and more deadly wildfires.\r\nUtahns know the destruction that wildfires leave in their wake and the importance of common-sense forest management that can save lives and property. During my time in Congress, improving wildfire mitigation, response, and recovery efforts has been a top priority, and I am committed to creating a diverse coalition of stakeholders to work towards stopping preventable disasters. Congressman Neguse and I share the unfortunate experience of seeing firsthand how devastating wildfires are to the land and surrounding communities, and because of that, also share a commitment to working across the aisle to find ways to protect our communities and ensure they quickly bounce back after a fire, said Congressman John Curtis. I am excited to announce the creation of the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus to bring together Republicans and Democrats to find common ground and advocate for policies that will help communities recover and respond to catastrophic wildfires, as well as avoid them in the first place.\r\nRepresentatives Neguse and Curtis have worked together throughout the 116th Congress to address wildfires in the West. In 2019, together they introduced the Study on Improving Lands (SOIL) Act which evaluates the effects of wildfire and land use practices on the ability of soil to sequester carbon. Last April, they introduced the Wildfire and Community Health Response Act of 2020 aimed at supporting the health of firefighters and mitigating the impact of wildfires on vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nThe Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus will:\r\n \r\nAdvocate for wildfire-related programs, including funding for disaster relief, prevention, and mitigation;\r\nShare federal relief programs and resources with communities before, during and after wildfire season; and\r\nHighlight balanced and bipartisan science-based wildfire management and mitigation proposals in Congress.\r\n \r\nEvery year we experience another record-breaking wildfire season and its catastrophic consequences, it is a tragic reminder that we must do more to care for and manage our wildlands and protect communities, said Lynn Scarlett, Chief External Affairs Officer, The Nature Conservancy. The formation of this bipartisan House caucus affirms that wildfires affect us all. We must reduce the dangers of wildfire, improve forest health and resilience, strengthen our wildfire response and expand post-fire restoration. We commend the caucuses' founders for working toward bipartisan solutions for the country's wildfire challenges.\r\nWildfire is an important natural process in our environment, but uncharacteristic wildfire is a persistent threat, especially in western states, due to a host of past management practices and climate factors, said James D. Ogsbury, Executive Director, Western Governors' Association. The Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus is an exciting platform to bring attention to these challenges and seek bipartisan solutions to increase the health and resilience of our communities and ecosystems. WGA is pleased to see the formation of the new Caucus and I especially want to thank its Chairs, Representatives Joe Neguse of Colorado and John Curtis of Utah, for their bipartisan leadership on this matter of great importance to the West.\r\nThe National Association of State Foresters applaud Representatives Curtis (R-UT) and Neguse (D-CO) for their bipartisan leadership and look forward to bringing our collective expertise in support of the work of the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus. State Foresters agree more must be done to minimize the threat of catastrophic wildfire. With more people living in fire-prone landscapes close to wildlands, protecting communities as well as state, private, and federal lands from wildfire has become increasingly difficult. Without increased and coordinated efforts in active forest management, fire prevention, and wildfire suppression, wildfires will continue to pose a threat to our nation's forests and destroy our communities, said Joe Fox, President, National Association of State Foresters, Arkansas State Forester.\r\nBackground\r\nIn the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the West has seen one of the worst fire seasons on record. As fire seasons grow longer and communities face increasingly destructive and costly wildfires, it is imperative that Congress prioritize proactive, science-based forest management policies to improve national preparedness and response to wildfire. Adequate fire preparation, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts are critical to ensuring communities are resilient and have every tool necessary to protect lives, property, and the land itself.\r\nWildfire mitigation and response is a year-round legislative priority for Congressman Neguse. Since taking office, he has worked to ensure Colorado's firefighters and first responders are supported and that necessary investments are made at the federal level in wildfire resiliency and recovery efforts. In March, Congressman Neguse led an effort with Chairman Peter DeFazio requesting increased funds for the Joint Fire Science Program. In April, as the COVID-19 pandemic intensified, Congressman Neguse sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and was successful in ensuring firefighters and first responders be given priority for COVID-19 tests.\r\nAs Colorado has experienced a devastating and relentless wildfire season in 2020, Congressman Neguse has worked in close coordination with local firefighters and emergency management officials to ensure that communities in the 2nd Congressional District and across Colorado have the federal funds they need to contain these fires and recover. At the height of devastating wildfires in the 2nd district, Congressman Neguse helped secure FEMA funds for containment efforts of the CalWood, East Troublesome and Cameron Peak Fires. He recently introduced the Wildfire Recovery Act, legislation to increase the federal cost-share on Fire Assistance Grants to bring in more federal resources to local communities in the 2nd Congressional District recovering from wildfires. He also sent a letter to the Departments of Agriculture and Interior requesting an increase in late-season federal wildland resources by extending interagency hotshot contracts, and led a bipartisan effort with Congressman Garret Graves requesting supplemental resources for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP). In September, Congressman Neguse passed an amendment through the House of Representatives to collect data and coordinate research on the impacts of acute air pollution exposure from wildfires, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nThis summer, Congressman Neguse introduced the 21st Century Civilian Conservation Corps for our Health and Our Jobs Act in the House, alongside Senator Ron Wyden, which would make major investments in wildfire resiliency and mitigation efforts, as well as major investments in conservation and forest restoration. The pair also sent a letter to House and Senate leadership requesting that funds for wildfire relief and many of the programs outlined in this bill, be included in the next COVID-19 stimulus package.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-leads-bipartisan-call-to-prioritize-local-parks-in-future-economics-stimulus-or-infrastructure-package", "Congressman Neguse Leads Bipartisan Call to Prioritize Local Parks in Future Economics Stimulus or Infrastructure Package", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 16, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse Leads Bipartisan Call to Prioritize Local Parks in Future Economics Stimulus or Infrastructure Package \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Representatives Joe Neguse, Nanette Diaz Barragn, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Deb Haaland, led 28 of their colleagues in a bipartisan letter urging House leadership to include a one-time, emergency investment of $500 million for local parks in any future economic stimulus or infrastructure package.\r\n\r\nThe letter underscores the impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on parks services and unemployment, and how a one-time investment of $500 million through an emergency Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program could preserve up to 100,000 at-risk local seasonal jobs, provide at least 8,000 new jobs, and renovate more than 500 sites, all while adding $1.37 billion in economic activity.\r\n\r\nLocal parks in my district provide incredible outdoor recreation opportunities to Coloradans and to visitors to our state and they fuel the main street economies and tourism in our local communities, said Congressman Joe Neguse. Along with many local parks across the country, Colorado's parks have experienced significant budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic and require robust economic relief to maintain operations. A significant, one-time investment in the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program will preserve countless seasonal jobs, invest in local economic activity and preserve the natural resources and outdoor spaces Coloradans love.\r\n\r\nDuring this public health crisis, we have seen how critically important it is for Americans to have easy access to parks, said Congresswoman Barragn. They allow people to get outside, exercise, and get a mental health break from quarantine. However, the current economic downturn threatens to cut budgets and puts funding for parks on the chopping block. This would disproportionately impact communities that already have the least access, such as low-income communities and communities of color. A one-time stimulus in our local parks can protect jobs and preserve outdoor and recreational access for underserved communities.\r\n\r\nLocal and municipal parks play important roles in our communities, creating jobs and economic activity, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating a sense of community. COVID-19 has drastically changed our world, and we must work to support programs and entities that have been hurt by this pandemic, said Congressman Fitzpatrick. By renovating and investing in our community parks, playgrounds, trails and green spaces through the Outdoor Legacy Partnership Program, we can ensure that our local parks will continue to play an important role in building healthier and more resilient communities.\r\n\r\nGetting outside is important for maintaining physical and mental health during this crisis, but communities of color and low-income communities don't have equal access to outdoor recreation. The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the environmental and economic injustices that have existed in our country for too long. Investing in local parks will stimulate local job creation and economic activity and ensure everyone in our country has the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from the outdoors, said Congresswoman Deb Haaland, Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee.\r\n\r\nA coalition of more than 200 organizations are supporting this letter and have sent a similar request to President-Elect Joe Biden's transition team. They write that, COVID-19 is a wake-up call: the time to address the long-standing gaps in outdoor access and quality has come. As it formulates a plan for relief and recovery, your Administration can lead the way.\r\n\r\nThe Outdoor Recreation Partnership (ORLP) Program was established by Congress in 2014 and is administered by the National Park Service. It delivers funding to build access to the outdoors in cities and towns of 50,000 or more residents. An emergency investment through an OLRP stimulus could alleviate the need for non-federal matches, be targeted towards underserved communities, prioritize shovel-ready projects, and provide health and wellness benefits to local areas.\r\n\r\nThe letter to House leadership was signed by: Representatives Joe Neguse (Colo.), Nanette Diaz Barragan (Calif.), Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.), Deb Haaland (N.M.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D.C.), Adriano Espaillat (N.Y.), Mike Thompson (Calif.) , Ann McLane Kuster (N.H.), Rick Larsen (Wash.), Dianna DeGette (Colo.) , Jan Schakowsky (Ill.), Allen Lowenthal (Calif.) , Grace F. Napolitano (Calif.), Tony Cardenas (Calif.) , Ro Khanna (Calif.), Carolyn B. Maloney (N.Y.) , Gerald E. Connolly (Va.), Suzanne Bonamici (Ore.), Kathy Castor (Fla.), Ruben Gallego (Ariz), Bobby L. Rush (Ill.), Bill Foster (Ill.), Jimmy Gomez (Calif.), Brendan F. Boyle (Pa.), Adam B. Schiff (Calif.), Albio Sires (N.J.) , Jos Serrano (N.Y.) , Barbara Lee (Calif.), Alcee L. Hastings (Fla.), Brad Sherman (Calif.), Peter Welch (Vt.) and Jess G. Chuy Garca (Ill.)\r\n\r\nFull text of the letter can be found here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/crow-statement-calling-va-secretary-wilkie-resign", "Crow Statement Calling on VA Secretary Wilkie to Resign", "2020-12-12", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) issued the following statement calling on Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie to resign after the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Inspector General's report detailing the discrediting and cover-up by VA senior leadership of a case of sexual assault targeting a veteran and House staffer. Crow is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a combat veteran.\nI'm shocked by the Inspector General's report that VA Secretary Wilkie and Congressman Crenshaw engaged in a smear campaign against a female veteran who was alleging sexual abuse. Secretary Wilkie has betrayed the trust of the very veterans he is obligated to protect, and for this betrayal he must resign immediately. I also call for an immediate investigation into the role of Congressman Crenshaw in this smear campaign.\nBoth our VA system and the military have a problem with sexual harassment, assault, and violence. If those at the very top can't abide by the standards we are trying to set then they must leave immediately. Sexual assault and violence have been a problem for far too long, but we won't let it continue. Change starts with leadership, and leadership starts with accountability.\nEarlier this fall, Congressman Crow helped introduce the bipartisan I Am Vanessa Guilln Act, which would move prosecution decisions on sexual assault and sexual harassment cases outside of the chain and establish a standalone military offense for sexual harassment. The bill also reforms the ways in which servicemembers report harassment, and the Department of Defense and Government Accountability Office evaluate cases. Crow also visited Fort Hood, Texas as part of a congressional delegation to investigate the Army's botched response to the disappearance and murder of SPC Vanessa Guilln and the deaths of PV2 Gregory Wedel Morales, SGT Elder Fernandes, PFC Brandon Rosecrans, and SPC Freddy Delacruz. His past remarks can be found here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-and-upton-tomorrow-will-be-a-historic-day", "DeGette and Upton: Tomorrow will be a historic day", "2020-12-12", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C  U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette(D-CO) and Fred Upton(R-MI)  authors of the 21stCentury Cures Act issued the following statement, as tomorrow marks the four-year anniversary of the 21st Century Cures Act becoming law, the same day Pfizer will ship their historic vaccine:\nTomorrow marks the four-year anniversary of President Obama signing the 21st Century Cures Act into law. This landmark, bipartisan legislation, which we spearheaded, is one of our proudest achievements in Congress. We're glad to know that because of 21st Century Cures, we're on the cusp of finding treatments to some of the most tragic illnesses - including Sickle Cell and various forms of cancer - that have taken far too many lives. While we were working on passing this important legislation to accelerate the approval and deployment of cutting-edge, life-saving cures, treatments, and vaccines, our focus was entirely on renewing hope for patients and their families. Well, tomorrow, our hopes - and the hope of the whole world - will be renewed. Tomorrow, on the four-year anniversary of 21st Century Cures becoming law, the first COVID-19 vaccine will be shipped nationwide from Pfizer's global manufacturing facility in Portage. Coupled withan expected Moderna EUA by the end of the week, as many as 100 million Americans will be vaccinated by the end of March. That is real hope.\nWhen we first passed 21st Century Cures, we aimed to advance medical research, foster a new era of medical innovations, and help find cures to some of the world's cruelest diseases. We knew it would make an impact but never did we expect its importance to play such an outsized role so quickly. As we fight to end the worst public health crisis in a century, we are so grateful for all of the scientists, health care workers, and the good folks at Pfizer who have worked in record time to find this vaccine. The world is better off because of 21st Century Cures and Pfizer's incredible work. Tomorrow will be a historic day - one we will never forget and once again reminds us of what we can accomplish when we work together. To Pfizer, job well done, and to the world, there is truly a bright light at the end of this dark tunnel.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-and-upton-tomorrow-will-be-historic-day", "DeGette and Upton: Tomorrow will be a historic day", "2020-12-12", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C \u2013 U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Fred Upton (R-MI) \u2013 authors of the 21stCentury Cures Act \u2013 issued the following statement, as tomorrow marks the four-year anniversary of the 21st Century Cures Act becoming law, the same day Pfizer will ship their historic vaccine:\n\n\"Tomorrow marks the four-year anniversary of President Obama signing the 21st Century Cures Act into law. This landmark, bipartisan legislation, which we spearheaded, is one of our proudest achievements in Congress. We're glad to know that because of 21st Century Cures, we're on the cusp of finding treatments to some of the most tragic illnesses - including Sickle Cell and various forms of cancer - that have taken far too many lives.\n\n\"While we were working on passing this important legislation to accelerate the approval and deployment of cutting-edge, life-saving cures, treatments, and vaccines, our focus was entirely on renewing hope for patients and their families.\n\n\"Well, tomorrow, our hopes - and the hope of the whole world - will be renewed. Tomorrow, on the four-year anniversary of 21st Century Cures becoming law, the first COVID-19 vaccine will be shipped nationwide from Pfizer's global manufacturing facility in Portage. Coupled with an expected Moderna EUA by the end of the week, as many as 100 million Americans will be vaccinated by the end of March. That is real hope.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/next-cures-medical-research-bill-builds-on-biden-s-past-support", "Next Cures Medical Research Bill Builds on Bidens Past Support", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "President-elect Joe Biden's shepherding of a landmark biomedical innovation law bodes well for a second effort to improve access to digital health and reform the Medicare agency.\nReps. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) and Fred Upton (R-Mich.) said a draft version of Cures 2.0, the followup to the 21st Century Cures law, will come out early next year, with the aim of passing it next year. Biden, whose cancer moonshot initiative was part of the 2016 law (Pub. L. 114-255), presided over the Senate when it passed that chamber.\nHopefully by the spring, we'll be well on our way to getting Cures 2.0 done, Upton said Tuesday during the Milken Institute's Future of Heath Summit. House members will be sworn in Jan. 3 according to the House Majority Leader's calendar, and Upton said it's going to take a little while for the 117th congress to get organized.\nThe original law passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, and movement in the next session could be a win for both lawmakers and the incoming Biden administration in a Congress fractured along party lines.\nThe incoming Biden administration is well aware of Cures 2.0, said DeGette, who had a number of conversations with incoming White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain before the election.\nWhile the 2016 law focused on reforming the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration, Cures 2.0 will focus more on restructuring the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, DeGette said.\nGene therapy products have already come onto the market along with more than 900 investigational new drug applications for ongoing clinical studies. But with price tags running into seven figures for one dose of these potentially curative therapies, insurers have grappled with how to pay for the treatments.\nIf you're going to expedite cures through the process, you have to be able to provide them to the patients, DeGette said.\nShe also acknowledged the 2016 law was light on digital health services.\nThis is not an easy issue to crack, she said, because of so many different digital platforms. As we've learned in the pandemic there are so many barriers to electronic medical records and to preserving data and privacy and so on. And so those are some of the areas we're really trying to tackle.\nThe lawmakers released a concept paper in April and staff for Upton and DeGette are combing through more than 500 comments to inform a discussion draft they expect to release early next year, they said.\nThe Cures lawmakers are still aiming to insert their pandemic preparedness provisions into future virus relief funding, which they mentioned this past spring. Those provisions include improving surveillance and testing as well as more support for developing new antimicrobials.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-statement-fda-approval-first-covid-19-vaccine", "DeGette statement on FDA approval of first COVID-19 vaccine", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Following is a statement from U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), chair of the House Energy and Commerce Oversight and Investigations panel \u2013 which oversees the FDA \u2013 on the agency's decision today to grant an Emergency Use Authorization for Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine:\n\n\"This a moment we have been waiting for. Having a vaccine approved for distribution here in the U.S. marks the beginning of the end of this dark chapter in our history. Our focus now must be to get this vaccine \u2013 and any others that are approved \u2013 out to as many Americans as we can, as safely and quickly as possible.\n\n\"While this is certainly a day to celebrate, it's also important to remember that we aren't quite out of the woods yet. While we work to get this vaccine distributed to more than 300 million Americans across the country, it's now more important than ever that we all continue to take the steps necessary to slow the spread of this virus and keep each other safe.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-statement-on-fda-approval-of-first-covid-19-vaccine", "DeGette statement on FDA approval of first COVID-19 vaccine", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Following is a statement from U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), chair of the House Energy and Commerce Oversight and Investigations panel  which oversees the FDA  on the agency's decision today to grant an Emergency Use Authorization for Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine:\nThis a moment we have been waiting for. Having a vaccine approved for distribution here in the U.S. marks the beginning of the end of this dark chapter in our history. Our focus now must be to get this vaccine  and any others that are approved  out to as many Americans as we can, as safely and quickly as possible.\nWhile this is certainly a day to celebrate, it's also important to remember that we aren't quite out of the woods yet. While we work to get this vaccine distributed to more than 300 million Americans across the country, it's now more important than ever that we all continue to take the steps necessary to slow the spread of this virus and keep each other safe.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-introduces-wildfire-recovery-act-to-provide-grant-flexibility-for-wildfire-recovery-efforts-in-colorado", "Congressman Neguse Introduces Wildfire Recovery Act, to Provide Grant Flexibility for Wildfire Recovery Efforts in Colorado", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 10, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse Introduces Wildfire Recovery Act, to Provide Grant Flexibility for Wildfire Recovery Efforts in Colorado \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse introduced theWildfire Recovery Actto help ensure Colorado communities have the resources they need to recover from a devastating wildfire season. Specifically, the legislation would increase flexibility in the federal cost share for Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAG) and allow for an increase above the current 75% federal share. Currently, the CalWood, East Troublesome, and Cameron Peak Fires which burned throughout the 2nd district have all been authorized to receive FMAG grants to assist in recovery efforts. The grants allow the state to submit receipts for reimbursement of 75 percent of eligible costs to fight the fireswhich includes field camp expenses, equipment use and repair, mobilization, and other materials and supplies. However, unlike some other FEMA programs related to disasters that provide at least 75% of the total costs, there is no current flexibility for the FMAG program cost share. TheWildfire Recovery Act, introduced today by Congressman Neguse, would grant flexibility to raise the Federal cost-share above 75% when the wildfire reaches a qualifying threshold, to bring more resources to communities in the 2nd district.\r\nCommunities in the 2nd district and across Colorado have experienced a devastating wildfire season, and it's essential that they have the full extent of federal resources available for recovery, saidCongressman Joe Neguse.My bill, theWildfire Recovery Actwill help ensure that in extreme circumstances, our state and local governments are able to receive increased support from the Federal government to help cover firefighting costs, such as field camp expenses, equipment use, repair, mobilization, and other eligible FMAG expenses. As our communities begin the long road of recovery from these historic wildfires, our office is here to assist in every way we can. We continue to coordinate with state and local officials to provide federal support and resources and consider legislative solutions to lessen the burden for those who have been impacted.\r\nI've seen firsthand how devastating wildfires can be to communities, businesses, and families. Rep. Neguse continues to fight for Colorado and I was proud he joined me when we met with victims and families devastated by Colorado's climate and drought-induced wildfires, saidGovernor Jared Polis.This legislation would drastically improve the ability of state and local governments to respond to these disasters and speed up the recovery process.\r\nClimate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme wildfires in our community and countless others, saidDeb Gardner, Chair of the Boulder County Board of County Commissioners.Recovering from these events is costly, and the federal government is an essential partner in that process. This legislation will give FEMA the flexibility to provide communities that have been especially hard-hit with the resources they need to fully recover.\r\nThis bill would greatly assist local governments that experience catastrophic wildfires by better aligning the FMAG program with other FEMA assistance programs, and by supporting small communities with limited resources, saidLori Hodges, Director of the Office of Emergency Management for Larimer County.\r\nThis bill is exactly what Grand County needs. Rural Colorado Counties with relatively large scale disasters cannot afford the old 25% cost share. Grand County lost over 500 structures. Debris removal alone may cost over $20 Million. 25% of $20 million is $5 million. Grand County's total annual budget is less than $50 Million, and our budget is tight.  saidRichard Cimino, Grand County Commissioner.Joe Neguse's bill will make it possible for rural Colorado Counties to help their citizens recover from natural disasters.\"\r\nBackground\r\nWildfire mitigation and response is a year-round legislative priority for Congressman Neguse. Since taking office, he has worked to ensure Colorado's firefighters and first responders are supported and that necessary investments are made at the federal level in wildfire resiliency and recovery efforts. In March, Congressman Neguse led an effort with Chairman Peter DeFazio requesting increased funds for the Joint Fire Science Program. In April, as the COVID-19 pandemic intensified, Congressman Neguse sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)and was successful in ensuring firefighters and first responders be given priority for COVID-19 tests.\r\nAs Colorado has experienced a devastating and relentless wildfire season in 2020, Congressman Neguse has worked in close coordination with local firefighters and emergency management officials to ensure that communities in the 2nd Congressional District and across Colorado have the federal funds they need to contain these fires and recover. At the height of devastating wildfires in the 2nd district, Congressman Neguse helped secure FEMA funds for containment efforts of theCalWood,East TroublesomeandCameron PeakFires. He also sent a letter to the Departments of Agriculture and Interior requesting an increase in late-season federal wildland resources by extending interagency hotshot contracts, andled a bipartisan effort with Congressman Garret Gravesrequesting supplemental resources for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP). In September, Congressman Negusepassed an amendment through the House of Representativesto collect data and coordinate research on the impacts of acute air pollution exposure from wildfires, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nThis summer, Congressman Neguse introduced the21st Century Civilian Conservation Corps for our Health and Our Jobs Actin the House, alongside Senator Ron Wyden, which would make major investments in wildfire resiliency and mitigation efforts, as well as major investments in conservation and forest restoration. Last week, the pairsent a letter to House and Senate leadership requesting that funds for wildfire reliefand many of the programs outlined in this bill, be included in the next COVID-19 stimulus package. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/neguse-legislation-to-expand-rocky-mountain-national-park-passes-the-house", "Neguse Legislation to Expand Rocky Mountain National Park Passes the House", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 10, 2020\n\t\t\t Neguse Legislation to Expand Rocky Mountain National Park Passes the House \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, two bills introduced by Congressman Joe Neguse to expand Rocky Mountain National Park passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support. H.R. 5458, the Rocky Mountain National Park Boundary Modification Act would allow former NASA astronaut and Longmont, Colorado native Vance D. Brand to donate 40 acres to Rocky Mountain National Park, and H.R. 5459, the Rocky Mountain Ownership Correction Act would correct a longstanding error regarding a local family's cabin that was mistakenly transferred to the park. Both bills enjoy bipartisan, bicameral support, with Congressman Lamborn co-sponsoring both House bills, and Senators Gardner and Bennet championing the bills in the Senate.\r\nView the Congressman's remarks on the House floor ahead of the votehere.\r\nThese bills will expand and protect one of our most treasured and historic national parks, one that I am proud is located within Colorado's Second Congressional District. People from all over the world are drawn to Rocky Mountain National Park to experience nature and partake in outstanding recreational activities. It is a place that holds deep meaning for many Americans, and especially Coloradans, saidCongressman Neguse.I am thrilled to have both bills pass out of the House today, and hope the Senate will move to consider them in a timely fashion.\r\nI'm glad the House passed our legislation to expand Rocky Mountain National Park, saidSenator Bennet.These bills will add a parcel of land in the Longs Peak area, donated by astronaut Vance Brand, to the park and improve management along the park boundaries. I look forward to working with my colleagues to move this bill across the finish line in the Senate.\r\nIn July, the House Natural Resources Committee Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands held a legislative hearing on H.R. 5458 and H.R. 5459, during which Congressman Neguse and former astronaut Vance. D. Brand testified in support of the bills. In September, the Committee voted to send both bills to the full House for consideration.\r\nBackground\r\nFormer U.S. astronaut Vance D. Brand is voluntarily donating a 40-acre tract to Rocky Mountain National Park. The property is located adjacent to the eastern boundary of the park and would add additional protection for the park's high-elevation ecosystem. This parcel of land would also provide recreational access and connectivity through a scenic, natural buffer between private lands and three popular trails; Estes Cone, Storm Pass, and Eugenia Mine Trails. These three trails connect to and are part of a large trail network offering hundreds of miles of trails to the park's 4.5 million annual visitors.\r\nThe National Park Service (NPS) is working with the Forsyth family to resolve a 1972-73 issue where a 0.18-acre plot containing their family cabin was erroneously transferred to the Rocky Mountain National Park when the NPS purchased a larger surrounding parcel. An error in the bank documents' legal description of the parcel mislocated the family's holding as a 0.18-acre plot of vacant land inside the parcel, not the original cabin site. The Forsyth family, seeking to regain legal ownership of its cabin and the 0.18-acre plot on which it sits, proposed an exchange of properties. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/crow-statement-general-lloyd-austin", "Crow Statement on General Lloyd Austin", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) released the following statement on President-elect Biden's announcement to nominate General Lloyd Austin for Secretary of Defense:\nCongratulations to General Lloyd Austin on his nomination to be Secretary of Defense. His over 40 years of service to our country is remarkable and groundbreaking in many ways. There are many national security challenges facing our country from climate change and an aggressive Russia and China to the need to restore civilian-military relations. I look forward to hearing directly from General Austin in the weeks ahead as to how he will approach these challenges.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/antitrust-vice-chair-joe-neguse-applauds-ftc-and-state-ag-antitrust-lawsuits-against-facebook_", "Antitrust Vice Chair Joe Neguse Applauds FTC and State AG Antitrust Lawsuits Against Facebook", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2020\n\t\t\t Antitrust Vice Chair Joe Neguse Applauds FTC and State AG Antitrust Lawsuits Against Facebook   \n\t\t\tWashington D.C. Today, Congressman Joe Neguse, Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law, issued the following statement in response to the State Attorneys General and the Federal Trade Commission announcing antitrust lawsuits against Facebook:\r\nThe Antitrust Subcommittee's investigation of digital markets uncovered wide-ranging evidence that Facebook used its market power to acquire, clone, or eliminate its competitive threats in order to maintain its monopoly in social networking. It's purchase of Instagram and WhatsApp have allowed Facebook to own the top four most downloaded apps of the last decade. Left unchecked, Facebook's monopoly will remain harmful to consumers, innovation and our democracy. Today's antitrust lawsuits against Facebook is a welcome step to ensuring we have robust competition in the digital marketplace, and it is long overdue. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5194", "WILSON, PERLMUTTER SECURE PERMANENT AUTHORIZATION OF OMBUDSMAN FOR ENERGY EMPLOYEES OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS COMPENSATION PROGRAM", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On December 8, the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with permanent authorization of the Office of the Ombudsman for the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOICP). Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) and Congressman Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) worked through the entire bill process to ensure this critical legislation made it to the President's desk.\r\nI am grateful that this year's NDAA included permanent authorization of the Office of the Ombudsman for the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program. Passage of this provision will now allow thousands of nuclear workers, including those who have served at the Savannah River Site, to navigate the difficult process of receiving these benefits,said Congressman Wilson. This has been a bipartisan effort with me and Congressman Ed Perlmutter. By passing this bill, Congress has shown appreciation for those who have dedicated their lives to our national security.\r\nThe Office of the Ombudsman serves as a critical resource and advocate for those who risked their lives to protect our nation,said Congressman Perlmutter. By making this office permanent we can better ensure these patriots receive the compensation and care they need and deserve as they deal with the health consequences and other side effects related to their service to our country.\r\nBACKGROUND\r\nDuring the Cold War, approximately 600,000 workers were employed at U.S. weapons program facilities throughout the country. As a result of their work for the U.S. government, some atomic weapons workers developed cancers and other diseases. In 2000, Congress acted to provide healthcare and benefits for former nuclear weapons workers by passing the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). The Department of Labor's Office of the Ombudsman helps former nuclear weapons workers navigate the complex claims process under the EEOICPA. Under previous law, the Ombudsman's office sunset in October 2020.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-authorize-344-million-south-platte-river-project", "Congress to authorize $344 million for South Platte River project", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) announced today that Congress is now on track to approve more than $344 million for Denver's South Platte River and Tributaries project as part of this year's water bill.\n\nThe massive project \u2013 which will restore miles of stream bank along the South Platte River through the heart of Denver, create more green space for residents to enjoy and protect hundreds of Denver homes and businesses from the threat of future flooding \u2013 is a key part of a broader plan put forth by city of Denver and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to permanently protect three of Denver's rivers.\n\nDeGette, in close collaboration with the city and county of Denver and the Army Corp of Engineers, worked to get funding for the project authorized as part of the 2020 Water Resources Development Act, which congressional leaders finalized late yesterday.\n\n\"Denver's vast open parks and unrivaled public lands are a large part of why our city is so special,\" DeGette said. \"This legislation will not only protect our community from future flooding, it will also provide our residents with miles of additional green space to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.\"\n\nThe legislation is expected to be approved by both chambers before the end of the year.\n\nThe full text of this year's WRDA bill is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-to-authorize-344-million-for-south-platte-river-project", "Congress to authorize $344 million for South Platte River project", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) announced today that Congress is now on track to approve more than $344 million for Denver's South Platte River and Tributaries project as part of this year's water bill.\nThe massive project  which will restore miles of stream bank along the South Platte River through the heart of Denver, create more green space for residents to enjoy and protect hundreds of Denver homes and businesses from the threat of future flooding  is a key part of a broader plan put forth by city of Denver and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to permanently protect three of Denver's rivers.\nDeGette, in close collaboration with the city and county of Denver and the Army Corp of Engineers, worked to get funding for the project authorized as part of the 2020 Water Resources Development Act, which congressional leaders finalized late yesterday.\nDenver's vast open parks and unrivaled public lands are a large part of why our city is so special, DeGette said. This legislation will not only protect our community from future flooding, it will also provide our residents with miles of additional green space to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.\nThe legislation is expected to be approved by both chambers before the end of the year.\nThe full text of this year's WRDA bill is available here.\n(see page 322 for South Platte River project).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-senator-wyden-call-for-wildfire-relief-funds-to-be-included-in-next-covid-19-relief-package", "Congressman Neguse, Senator Wyden Call for Wildfire Relief Funds to Be Included in Next COVID-19 Relief Package", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 08, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse, Senator Wyden Call for Wildfire Relief Funds to Be Included in Next COVID-19 Relief Package \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and Senator Ron Wyden led their colleagues in sending a letter to Democratic and Republican House and Senate leadership requesting that funds for wildfire risk mitigation and recovery efforts be included in the next COVID-19 relief package.\r\nA record 2020 wildfire season has forced thousands of evacuations, threatened air and water quality, and destroyed homes and businesses.Communities that have been fighting the public health and economic impacts of COVID-19 are now also beginning the long journey of recovering from catastrophic wildfire, saidCongressman Neguse.Congress has the power to not only help these communities recover, but also to make major federal investments in sustainable forest management to ensure they are better prepared for the next season. After a devastating wildfire season in Colorado, it is critical that we ensure our firefighters and communities are protected from future tragedies of this magnitude, and fully equipped for the long road of recovery.\r\nEntire communities in Oregon and across the West were leveled to ash in the wake of this year's wildfire season--lives lost and homes and small businesses destroyed, and all on top of a life-threatening global pandemic,Senator Wydensaid. With the blow 2020 delivered to these communities, Congress has a responsibility to provide for their recovery and invest in preventing future devastation.\r\nSpecifically, the letter calls for:\r\n \r\nLocal economic reliefto assist cash-strapped cities and towns originally excluded from the CARES Act in order to ensure firefighters and first responders can remain on payroll and have access to needed staff and resources;\r\nInvestments in fire risk mitigation, such as establishing a 21st Century Conservation Corps to restore forest health and making investments in vital Forest Service programs that assist with forest management, such as the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program;\r\nFederal support for fire response efforts, including investments inFEMA's Staffing For Adequate Fire And Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants, increased funds forlate-season interagency hotshot crews, and increased pay and benefits for federal wildfire personnel; and\r\nInvestments in fire recovery effortsto support the work being done by local, state, and federal officials to revitalize the environmental health, water quality, and economy of communities impacted by wildfires.\r\n \r\nRead the letterhere.\r\nThe letter led by Congressman Joe Neguse and Senator Ron Wyden is signed by Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Suzanne Bonamici, Salud Carbajal, Suzan DelBene, Ral Grijalva, Jared Huffman, Ro Khanna, Ann Kirkpatrick, Barbara Lee, Jerry McNerney, Grace Napolitano, Tom O'Halleran, Jimmy Panetta, Katie Porter, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Brad Sherman, and Mike Thompson, and Senators Dianne Feinstein, Maria Cantwell, Kyrsten Sinema, Catherine Cortez Masto, Jacky Rosen, Tom Udall, Michael Bennet, Martin Heinrich, Patty Murray, Jon Tester, and Jeff Merkley.\r\nBackground\r\nWildfire mitigation and response is a year-round legislative priority for Congressman Neguse. Since taking office, he has worked to ensure Colorados firefighters and first responders are supported and necessary investments are made at the federal level in wildfire resiliency and recovery efforts. In March, Congressman Neguse led an effort with Chairman Peter DeFazio requesting increased funds for the Joint Fire Science Program. In April, as the COVID-19 pandemic intensified, Congressman Neguse sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)and was successful in ensuring firefighters and first responders be given priority for COVID-19 tests.\r\nAs Colorado has experienced a devastating and relentless wildfire season in 2020, Congressman Neguse has worked in close coordination with local firefighters and emergency management officials to ensure that communities in the 2nd Congressional District and across Colorado have the federal funds they need to contain these fires and recover. At the height of devastating wildfires in the 2nd district, Congressman Neguse helped secure FEMA funds for containment efforts of theCalWood,East TroublesomeandCameron PeakFires. He also sent a letter to the Departments of Agriculture and Interior requesting an increase in late-season federal wildland resources by extending interagency hotshot contracts. In September, Congressman Negusepassed an amendment through the House of Representativesto collect data and coordinate research on the impacts of acute air pollution exposure from wildfires, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nThis summer, Congressman Neguse introduced the21st Century Civilian Conservation Corps for our Health and Our Jobs Actin the House, alongside Senator Ron Wyden, which would make major investments in wildfire resiliency and mitigation efforts, through many of the same programs outlined in the letter sent today, as well as major investments in conservation and forest restoration. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/neguse-legislation-to-protect-whistleblowers-passes-the-house-with-bipartisan-support", "Neguse Legislation to Protect Whistleblowers Passes the House with Bipartisan Support", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 08, 2020\n\t\t\t Neguse Legislation to Protect Whistleblowers Passes the House with Bipartisan Support \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse passed legislation through the U.S. House of Representatives which would extend whistleblower protections and ensure greater accountability for criminal antitrust violations. The measuretheCriminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Actis bipartisan and co-led with Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI), Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law and Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law. Specifically, the bill would extend whistleblower protections to private sector employees who report criminal antitrust violations to the federal government. The measure passed the U.S. Senate on October 17, 2019 and will now head to the President's desk for signature.\r\nView Congressman Neguse's remarks on the House floor before bill passagehere.\r\nSince our nation's earliest days, the federal government has long prioritized protecting whistleblowers. Today, more than ever honoring that history is tremendously important, saidCongressman Joe Neguse.This legislation extends whistleblower protections to private sector employees who step forward to report criminal antitrust violations and take on substantial personal and professional risks as a result.\r\nNo one should face retaliation for blowing the whistle on illegal anticompetitive behavior, saidChairman Nadler.By extending whistleblower protections to private employees, the Criminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act will improve the enforcement of our nation's antitrust laws and protect countless consumers nationwide from harmful activities like price and wage fixing. I commend Congressman Neguse and Senator Grassley for their work on this vital legislation, and I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law.\r\nIt's important that this bill become law. Whistleblowers who suffer retaliation after they report on criminal antitrust conduct deserve a path to reinstatement, saidCongressman Cicilline.This bill ensures employees who report wrongdoing to the federal government will have that opportunity, as well as the chance to receive compensation for any harms they suffer.\r\nThe Criminal Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act is based on recommendations from a 2011 Government Accountability Office report. Antitrust violations often result in higher prices, less innovation, and less choice. Private sector employees are integral in maintaining the integrity of our antitrust laws, without whom violations such as price and wage fixing, would go unreported. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5193", "Perlmutter Applauds Passage of NDAA", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington D.C. Today U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) applauded the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2021, which includes several provisions important for Colorado.\r\nI'm proud the NDAA includes several of my provisions prioritizing the health and environmental safety of Coloradans, specifically firefighters and former nuclear weapons workers, said Perlmutter. This bill strengthens our national security and provides critical support for our troops and military families.\r\nNotably, the bill permanently extends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOICPA) Office of the Ombudsman, which expired in October 2020. The Ombudsman's office helps former nuclear weapons workers navigate the complex claims process under EEOICPA. This is a continuation ofyears-long work by Perlmutter to ensure former nuclear weapons workers  including those who worked at the Rocky Flats facility  receive the compensation and care they need and deserve as they deal with the health consequences and other side effects related to their service to our country.\r\nPerlmutter also helped secure a study to better understand the prevalence and concentration of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the personal protective equipment worn by firefighters as well as firefighters' risk of exposure to these harmful chemicals. The provision will also fund additional research to improve the safety of firefighting equipment for our firefighters. In July,Perlmutter introduced the provision as standalone legislation. PFAS chemicals are commonly used on firefighting gear to make them more water- and oil-resistant but research has shown PFAS exposure can lead to an increased risk of cancer, already the leading cause of death among firefightersaccording to the International Association of Fire Fighters.\r\nIn total, the bipartisan NDAA bill authorizes national defense spending for FY 2021 and includes several key provisions to care for our troops and military families to strengthen our national security. This includes a 3% pay raise for our men and women in uniform and strong provisions to tackle climate change throughout the Department of Defense. Other notable provisions include strengthening the Department of Defense's ability to respond to potential COVID-19 resurgence and other infectious diseases in the future, preventing the misuse of funding for President Trump's border wall, extending paid parental leave to approximately 100,000 federal civilians, providing additional benefits for tens of thousands of Vietnam-era Veterans exposed to Agent Orange, and removing all names, symbols, displays, monuments, and paraphernalia that honor or commemorate the Confederate States of America.\r\nSeveral other provisions included in the NDAA that Perlmutter supported through his work on the Financial Services Committee to improve our national security include:\r\n \r\n    H.R. 2513, the Corporate Transparency Act, which will end anonymous shell companieswhich have been used by criminals to obscure the ownership of companies used for illicit purposes like money laundering or tax evasion.\r\n \r\n \r\n    H.R. 2514, the COUNTER Act, which will improve the detection and prevention of money laundering and other financial crimes around the globe by modernizing the Bank Secrecy Act and providing financial institutions with new tools to combat illicit finance.\r\n \r\n \r\n    H.R. 1414, the FinCEN Improvement Act, which will strengthen the Department of Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network by expanding information sharing with tribal authorities, prioritizing protection against all types of terrorism, and ensuring a focus on emerging methods of terrorism and illicit finance, including cryptocurrencies.\r\n \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-congressman-katko-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-provide-covid-19-relief-to-head-start-child-care-facilities", "Congressman Neguse, Congressman Katko Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Provide COVID-19 Relief to Head Start Child Care Facilities", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse, Congressman Katko Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Provide COVID-19 Relief to Head Start Child Care Facilities \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and Congressman John Katko introduced bipartisan legislation to provide $1.7 billion in COVID-19 relief funds to Head Start to pay for additional staffing, personal protective equipment, cleaning and other needs at child care facilities across the United States. TheJumpstart for Head Start Act,would address the estimated funding shortfall for Head Start grantees and would appropriate funds directly to Head Start programs based on enrollment ratio.\r\nAffordable quality child care is critical to supporting essential workers today andthe ability of many parentsto return to work in the future, saidCongressman Joe Neguse.While many child care centers and Head Start programs have remained open throughout the pandemic, they lack the resources necessary to provide adequate protection and cleaning. TheJumpstart for Head Start Actwill provide critical funds for Head Start programs across Colorado to help keep our kids and child care workers safe.\r\nI'm glad to be partnering with Rep. Joe Neguse to introduce a bipartisan bill that would deliver $1.7 billion in emergency funds for Head Start programs, saidCongressman Katko.These programs help local providers administer nutritional, educational, and development support services to young children from low-income families. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, many providers have been burdened with new costs that threaten their ability to continue serving families in-need. By delivering emergency funding, we will ensure all children have the resources they need to grow, regardless of their family's income.\r\nUnlike schools, many child care centers in Colorado have been open during most or all of the pandemic, and some have adapted to provide virtual or in-home services.Based on extensive surveying of Head Start providers, the National Head Start Association estimates operational costs for the program will increase by up to 20 percent this year as individual programs adapt and respond to the pandemic, and is therefore advocating for $1.7 billion in emergency funding for anticipated costs for providers to re-open safely for in-person instruction and to continue to provide virtual and home-based services.\r\nWe commend Congressman Neguse and Congressman Katko for their leadership today in introducing a bill to address the immediate funding needs of Head Start and Early Head Start programs, saidNational Head Start Association Executive Director Yasmina Vinci.In the face of COVID-19, programs are working tirelessly with at-risk children and families to bring hope, stability, and a holistic approach to overcoming this pandemic. Regardless of location and size, local Head Start programs are confronting real increased costs for staffing, sanitizing and supplying PPE, ensuring classroom safety, and enabling virtual learning. The funding included in this bill would be an essential down payment on keeping Head Start programs operating safely throughout this crisis. NHSA looks forward to working with Congress to move this critical legislation and address the longer term, far-reaching impacts of learning loss and childhood trauma related to COVID-19.\r\nThis is timely, helpful legislation that acknowledges the need for the funds to be attached to the Head Start base grant, saidCarolyn Martin, Poudre School District Director of Early Childhood Center, Fullana Learning Center.So it goes much further than the emergency response funds congress released last spring. Our children need this ongoing allocation so we can meet their needs as our community recovers from the global pandemic.\r\nOur community here in Loveland, Colorado, is very fortunate to have a rich and robust Head Start Program right within our public school system! saidNicole Graber, a teacher in the Thompson School District. We value our connection with Head Start and the framework it offers us; we are able to provide our students and families with preschool education, access to full day preschool programming, health and nutrition, a collaborative partnership with families, and a network of community resources, especially now during the pandemic. Head Start's commitment to supporting the growth and development of young children and their families is a valuable asset to our district and community.\r\nHead Start has been a pillar in our community since 1968, preparing students and families for Kindergarten and beyond! Head Start helps to nourish a child's development and provides support to the families. Families build connections with the teachers and staff at the school to help build the gap between home and school, saidLamb Caro, Early Childhood Administrator & Head Start Director at Thompson School District.As a former Head Start student, I can speak to the support, experience, and success that Head Start has provided for so many students and families. Since the pandemic started, the needs of our families have increased and the needs have changed. Food insecurity, access to technology, social-emotional support, and ensuring safety of our Head Start community are a few of the many needs that have become apparent. We have needed to connect with students in different ways while also increasing the capacity of the staff to work with our families in new and innovative approaches. The need for additional funding is critical, especially as we move forward in supporting families now and in the future. We are focused on ensuring that our students continue to grow and succeed.\r\nHead Start programs deliver high-quality, evidence-based education and comprehensive services to children across the country. With the help of Head Start, children are equipped with skills to enhance their social and emotional well-being, and receive health screenings, oral and mental health support, while parents can access resources to reach their financial goals and education needs. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Head Start programs quickly adapted and readjusted their Head Start model to implement innovative strategies to help vulnerable families in need during the public health crisis. Poudre School District and Thompson School District benefit fromHead Start funds, along with many other child care providers across Colorado.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguse-to-host-gingerbread-house-making-event-and-holiday-recipe-competition", "Congressman Neguse to Host Gingerbread House Making Event and Holiday Recipe Competition", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse to Host Gingerbread House Making Event and Holiday Recipe Competition \n\t\t\tLafayette, COToday, Congressman Joe Neguse announced a series of holiday events his office will be hosting in December to spread cheer and hope in the 2nd Congressional District.\r\nThis year the holidays are looking very different for many across our district. With rising COVID-19 cases and extreme economic hardship, there is a lot to provide stress and anxiety in this season, saidCongressman Joe Neguse.We hope these holiday events will provide an opportunity for our community to come together and engage in some light-hearted fun and competition. Our hope and resilience will get us through this challenging time for Colorado.\r\nDETAILS:\r\nGingerbread Wonderland with Congressman Neguse and Family\r\nJoin Congressman Neguse for a gingerbread house making event. Bake and decorate a gingerbread house from the comfort of your own home with acclaimed pastry chef Jen Bush.           \r\nWHEN:    Wednesday, December 16 2020\r\n          11:00am to 12:00pm MT\r\nWHERE:   RSVP HERE.\r\nHoliday Dessert Recipe Competition\r\nSubmit your favorite family recipe by emailingholiday.recipe@mail.house.govbefore December 14th to be entered. Submissions will be judged by acclaimed pastry chef, Jen Bush. Winners will be announced on December 16th at Gingerbread Wonderland. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-introduces-legislation-expand-diabetes-prevention-program", "DeGette introduces legislation to expand diabetes prevention program", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) introduced legislation today to make Medicare's Diabetes Prevention Program more accessible to more Americans.\n\nThe bipartisan legislation, which DeGette introduced along with Reps. Tom Rice (R-SC), Tom Reed (R-NY) and G.K. Butterfield (D-CA), would require that Medicare make the program available online, instead of requiring qualifying beneficiaries to attend in-person classes.\n\n\"Nearly one-third of all adults in this country have either diabetes or prediabetes,\" said DeGette, who serves as co-chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus. \"Finding ways to prevent more Americans from developing this deadly disease must remain one of our top priorities. This legislation will help us expand access to important resources and make them more available to more Americans \u2013 including our seniors, and those living in more rural areas, who may otherwise be unable to utilize them.\"\n\nThe Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program is a 2-year program designed to teach Medicare beneficiaries with prediabetes how to live healthier lifestyles and reduce their chances of developing Type 2 diabetes later on down the road.\n\nThe program, which is available to qualifying Medicare beneficiaries at no cost to them, requires participants to attend 16 in-person, classroom-style sessions where they are taught how to improve their diets, increase their physical exercise and make better overall health decisions to reduce their chances of developing the disease.\n\nThe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services temporarily suspended the in-person requirement earlier this year in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and is currently making the diabetes prevention classes available to participants online.\n\nThe legislation DeGette and others introduced today would make that change permanent and explicitly require Medicare to make the diabetes prevention program available to qualifying beneficiaries both online and in-person going forward \u2013 a move that proponents of the bill say will help to drastically expand the programs reach, even after the pandemic ends.\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of every 10 American adults currently have diabetes \u2013 including more than 400,000 people in DeGette's home state of Colorado.\n\nThat number is even higher among Americans age 65 and over \u2013 in fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, it's estimated that 1 out of every 4 seniors in the U.S. currently has the disease.\n\nApproximately $1 out of every $4 spent on health care in the U.S. \u2013 and $1 out of every $3 spent by Medicare \u2013 is spent treating people with diabetes.\n\nIn response to the surging cost associated with treating a growing number of Americans with diabetes each year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services launched the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program in 2018 in an effort to try to help lower the cost of treating beneficiaries with the disease by helping them prevent it from developing in the first place.\n\nStudies have shown that participants of similar behavioral-change programs have been successful in preventing or delaying the development of Type 2 diabetes for at least 15 years.\n\nAn early review of the Medicare-run program found that it, like other similarly designed programs, has been successful in helping participants lose weight and reduce their overall chances of developing the disease.\n\nParticipants of the Medicare program have reported an average weight loss of 5%. Medicare, meanwhile, has reportedly saved an average of $2,650 in reduced medical costs per beneficiary who has participated in the program.\n\nThe legislation \u2013 known as the PREVENT DIABETES Act \u2013 is supported by the American Diabetes Association, American Medical Association, Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, The Connected Health Initiative, Endocrine Society, Healthcare Leadership Council, Livongo, Noom, National Kidney Foundation, Novo Nordisk Inc., Omada Health, and YMCA of the USA.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-introduces-legislation-to-expand-diabetes-prevention-program", "DeGette introduces legislation to expand diabetes prevention program", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) introduced legislation today to make Medicare's Diabetes Prevention Program more accessible to more Americans.\nThe bipartisan legislation, which DeGette introduced along with Reps. Tom Rice (R-SC), Tom Reed (R-NY) and G.K. Butterfield (D-CA), would require that Medicare make the program available online, instead of requiring qualifying beneficiaries to attend in-person classes.\nNearly one-third of all adults in this country have either diabetes or prediabetes, said DeGette, who serves as co-chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus. Finding ways to prevent more Americans from developing this deadly disease must remain one of our top priorities. This legislation will help us expand access to important resources and make them more available to more Americans  including our seniors, and those living in more rural areas, who may otherwise be unable to utilize them.\nThe Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program is a 2-year program designed to teach Medicare beneficiaries with prediabetes how to live healthier lifestyles and reduce their chances of developing Type 2 diabetes later on down the road.\nThe program, which is available to qualifying Medicare beneficiaries at no cost to them, requires participants to attend 16 in-person, classroom-style sessions where they are taught how to improve their diets, increase their physical exercise and make better overall health decisions to reduce their chances of developing the disease.\nThe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services temporarily suspended the in-person requirement earlier this year in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and is currently making the diabetes prevention classes available to participants online.\nThe legislation DeGette and others introduced today would make that change permanent and explicitly require Medicare to make the diabetes prevention program available to qualifying beneficiaries both online and in-person going forward  a move that proponents of the bill say will help to drastically expand the programs reach, even after the pandemic ends.\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of every 10 American adults currently have diabetes  including more than 400,000 people in DeGette's home state of Colorado.\nThat number is even higher among Americans age 65 and over  in fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, it's estimated that 1 out of every 4 seniors in the U.S. currently has the disease.\nApproximately$1 out of every $4spentonhealth care in the U.S.  and$1 out of every $3 spentby Medicare  isspenttreating people withdiabetes.\nIn response to the surging cost associated with treating a growing number of Americans with diabetes each year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services launched the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program in 2018 in an effort to try to help lower the cost of treating beneficiaries with the disease by helping them prevent it from developing in the first place.\nStudies have shown that participants of similar behavioral-change programs have been successful in preventing or delaying the development of Type 2 diabetes for at least 15 years.\nAn early review of the Medicare-run program found that it, like other similarly designed programs, has been successful in helping participants lose weight and reduce their overall chances of developing the disease.\nParticipants of the Medicare program have reported an average weight loss of 5%. Medicare, meanwhile, has reportedly saved an average of $2,650 in reduced medical costs per beneficiary who has participated in the program.\nThe legislation  known as thePREVENT DIABETES Act is supported by the American Diabetes Association, American Medical Association, Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, The Connected Health Initiative, Endocrine Society, Healthcare Leadership Council, Livongo, Noom, National Kidney Foundation, Novo Nordisk Inc., Omada Health, and YMCA of the USA.\nA copy of the bill is here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/live-54th-annual-us-capitol-christmas-tree-lighting-ceremony", "LIVE: 54th Annual US Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "600 Grant Street, Suite 202\n\nDenver, CO 80203\n\n  Phone: (303) 844-4988  \n\tFax: (303) 844-4996\nOffice Hours:\nMonday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm M.T.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/colorado-congressional-delegation-celebrates-lighting-of-us-capitol", "Colorado Congressional Delegation Celebrates Lighting of U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, the entire Colorado Congressional Delegation released a joint statement celebrating this year's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, which traveled from Western Colorado to Washington, D.C. in November, ahead of the lighting ceremony in our nation's capital:\nFrom the spread of the coronavirus to the economic downturn, this year has challenged us all. But through these challenges, people from across Colorado have come together to support one another and bring hope to their communities. Coloradans have always beenresilient, and it is fitting that when our country most needs a reminder of holiday joy that our state has the honor of providing the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.\nThe Capitol Christmas Tree is a wonderful American tradition that unites us as we celebrate the holiday season.It is a symbol of the community and hope we can still find during difficult times. After Colorado's most devastating wildfire season on record, it also serves as a reminder of the importance ofprotecting our public lands and the communities that rely on them.\nCongratulations to Colorado's Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, & Gunnison National Forests for providing a spectacular Engelmann spruce. On behalf of Colorado, it is our honor to share a piece of our beautiful state with the country.\nAfter being harvested from the Uncompahgre National Forestnear Montrose, Colorado on November 5, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree traveled through Colorado and across the country, arriving in Washington, D.C. on November 20. The tree's ornaments, created by Coloradans, traveled to Washington with the tree.\nToday's lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree will be livestreamedHEREat 3:00 PM MT/5:00 PM ET.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/colorado-congressional-delegation-celebrates-lighting-us-capitol", "Colorado Congressional Delegation Celebrates Lighting of U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the entire Colorado Congressional Delegation released a joint statement celebrating this year's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, which traveled from Western Colorado to Washington, D.C. in November, ahead of the lighting ceremony in our nation's capital:\n\n\"From the spread of the coronavirus to the economic downturn, this year has challenged us all. But through these challenges, people from across Colorado have come together to support one another and bring hope to their communities. Coloradans have always been resilient, and it is fitting that when our country most needs a reminder of holiday joy that our state has the honor of providing the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.\n\n\"The Capitol Christmas Tree is a wonderful American tradition that unites us as we celebrate the holiday season. It is a symbol of the community and hope we can still find during difficult times. After Colorado's most devastating wildfire season on record, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our public lands and the communities that rely on them.\n\n\"Congratulations to Colorado's Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, & Gunnison National Forests for providing a spectacular Engelmann spruce. On behalf of Colorado, it is our honor to share a piece of our beautiful state with the country.\"\n\nAfter being harvested from the Uncompahgre National Forest near Montrose, Colorado on November 5, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree traveled through Colorado and across the country, arriving in Washington, D.C. on November 20. The tree's ornaments, created by Coloradans, traveled to Washington with the tree.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:42:23Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5187", "Colorado Congressional Delegation Celebrates Lighting of U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, the entire Colorado Congressional Delegation released a joint statement celebrating this year's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, which traveled from Western Colorado to Washington, D.C. in November, ahead of the lighting ceremony in our nation's capital:\r\nFrom the spread of the coronavirus to the economic downturn, this year has challenged us all. But through these challenges, people from across Colorado have come together to support one another and bring hope to their communities. Coloradans have always beenresilient, and it is fitting that when our country most needs a reminder of holiday joy that our state has the honor of providing the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.\r\nThe Capitol Christmas Tree is a wonderful American tradition that unites us as we celebrate the holiday season.It is a symbol of the community and hope we can still find during difficult times. After Colorado's most devastating wildfire season on record, it also serves as a reminder of the importance ofprotecting our public lands and the communities that rely on them.\r\nCongratulations to Colorado's Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, & Gunnison National Forests for providing a spectacular Engelmann spruce. On behalf of Colorado, it is our honor to share a piece of our beautiful state with the country.\r\nAfter being harvested from the Uncompahgre National Forestnear Montrose, Colorado on November 5, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree traveled through Colorado and across the country, arriving in Washington, D.C. on November 20. The tree's ornaments, created by Coloradans, traveled to Washington with the tree.\r\nToday's lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree will be livestreamedHEREat 3:00 PM MT/5:00 PM ET.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5188", "Colorado Congressional Delegation Continues to Press Trump to Extend and Expand Funding to Support Colorado National Guard COVID-19 Response Efforts", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today,the entire Colorado Congressional Delegation sent athirdletter to President Donald Trump asking for extended and expanded federal funding for the Colorado National Guard (CONG) to support their efforts in the fight against the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Colorado Governor Jared Polis also sent his formal request to Trump on November 23, 2020 asking for an extension offederal authorization and funding through July 31, 2021.The funding was originally approved on April 7, 2020, and is set to expire at the end of this year.\r\n  \r\nCOVID-19 cases across the nation are rising rapidly. Unfortunately, Colorado is not an exception. The state continues to balance economic recovery and preservation while prioritizing health and safety. In order to accomplish these interdependent missions, theassistance of the Colorado National Guard remains essential,wrote Bennet and the members of the delegation.\r\n  \r\nIn light of the recent news of key vaccine developments,the lawmakers wrote:...the Colorado National Guard will play a critical role in the distribution and management of vaccine administration sites as new vaccines become available. We support Governor's Polis's request that these vaccine-related activities also be eligible for Title 32 authorized activities.\r\n  \r\nToday's request follows Bennet and the delegation's Aprilletterand Julylettertothe president requesting extended federal funding for the Colorado National Guard. In August, the administration approved an extension of this funding which is now set to expire on December 31, 2020.\r\n  \r\nIn addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by Colorado U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R) and Colorado U.S. Representatives Diana DeGette (D), Joe Neguse (D), Scott Tipton (R), Ken Buck (R), Doug Lamborn (R), Jason Crow (D), and Ed Perlmutter (D).\r\n  \r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\nDear Mr. President:\r\n  \r\nWe write to support Governor Jared Polis's request for an extension and expansion of 502(f)(2)(A) of Title 32, U.S. Code, funding for the Colorado National Guard in support of the fight against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) through July 31, 2021. Previously, the Administration approved an extension of this funding on August 3, 2020, which is now set to expire on December 31, 2020. With rising numbers, a further extension of this authorization is critical to ensuring Colorado continues to mitigate and contain the spread of the disease.\r\n  \r\nCOVID-19 cases across the nation are rising rapidly. Unfortunately, Colorado is not an exception. The state continues to balance economic recovery and preservation while prioritizing health and safety. In order to accomplish these interdependent missions, the assistance of the Colorado National Guard remains essential. We support Governor Polis's request for an extension, and expansion to include vaccine related activities, of 502(f)(2)(A) of Title 32, U.S. Code for another six months until July 31, 2021.\r\n  \r\nThe ongoing support the Colorado National Guard members provide to the Colorado Department of Health and Environment through staffing COVID-19 mobile and mass testing sites of vulnerable populations is vital. In addition, the Guard assists in multiple functions such as aiding in logistics, distribution, and warehouse management for personal protective equipment to essential works. Without their assistance, Colorado would also lack the staffing necessary to support on-site testing for affected communities, Emergency Operations Center augmentation, command control functions within the State of Colorado, and critical infrastructure protection. Finally, the Colorado National Guard will play a critical role in the distribution and management of vaccine administration sites as new vaccines become available. We support Governor's Polis's request that these vaccine-related activities also be eligible for Title 32 authorized activities.\r\n  \r\nThis requested extension and expansion of authorized mission assignments is essential to Colorado's ongoing management and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We request that you extend and expand the 502(f)(2)(A) funding authorization for another six months until July 31, 2021, in order to allow the Colorado National Guard to continue supporting these mission critical tasks.                      \r\n  \r\nThank you for your urgent consideration of this important matter.\r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\nSincerely,\r\n  \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-introduces-resolution-recognizing-november-american-diabetes", "DeGette introduces resolution recognizing November as American Diabetes Month", "2020-11-24", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Tom Reed (R-NY), co-chairs of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution today recognizing November as American Diabetes Month.\n\n\"More than 30 million Americans have diabetes, and twice as many more are likely prediabetic,\" DeGette said. \"We, as a nation, can and must do more to help prevent and treat this disease \u2013 and that includes raising awareness throughout the country about who is most at risk, the symptoms they should look out for and the importance of early detection.\"\n\nAccording to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 34.2 million Americans have diabetes, while an estimated 88 million more are likely prediabetic.\n\nThe resolution \u2013 cosponsored by fellow Diabetes Caucus members Reps. Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Susan DelBene (D-WA) and Susan Brooks (R-IN) \u2013 seeks to increase public awareness of the prevention and treatment options available.\n\nIt also seeks to reemphasize the importance of early detection when it comes to treating the disease and calls on Congress to address the barriers to health care that are leaving some of the most vulnerable communities at an increased risk of developing the disease.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:39:51Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-introduces-resolution-recognizing-november-as-american-diabetes", "DeGette introduces resolution recognizing November as American Diabetes Month", "2020-11-24", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S.Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Tom Reed (R-NY),co-chairs of theCongressionalDiabetes Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution today recognizing November as American Diabetes Month.\nMore than 30 million Americans have diabetes, and twice as many more are likely prediabetic, DeGette said. We, as a nation, can and must do more to help prevent and treat this disease  and that includes raising awareness throughout the country about who is most at risk, the symptoms they should look out for and the importance of early detection.\nAccording to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 34.2 million Americans have diabetes, while an estimated 88 million more are likely prediabetic.\nThe resolution  cosponsored by fellow Diabetes Caucus members Reps. Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Susan DelBene (D-WA) and Susan Brooks (R-IN)  seeks to increase public awareness of the prevention and treatment options available.\nIt also seeks to reemphasize the importance of early detection when it comes to treating the disease and calls on Congress to address the barriers to health care that are leaving some of the most vulnerable communities at an increased risk of developing the disease.\nA copy of the resolution is availablehere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5182", "Perlmutter Announces Military Service Academy Nominations", "2020-11-20", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) has announced the 2020 nomination slate for appointments to the U.S. Military Service Academies. In total, 33 students from the 7th Congressional District received nominations to one or more of the academies.These students represent the best and the brightest of our community, and it's an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to nominate them to serve our country, said Perlmutter. Their dedication to their country and community is inspiring, and I wish them well in all of their future endeavors. The breakdown of 2020 Service Academy Nominations are as follows:  \r\n United States Air Force Academy: 20 students  \r\n United States Military Academy: 10 students  \r\n United States Merchant Marine Academy: 3 students  \r\n United States Naval Academy: 18 students This year, Perlmutter's office had a record-breaking number of 15 women apply, 14 of whom received nominations. In total, 42 students applied for nominations. Nominated students are from all over the 7th Congressional District, including Lakewood, Golden, Arvada, Brighton, Thornton, Westminster, Broomfield, Northglenn, Littleton, Wheat Ridge, and Commerce City. The nominated students will be appointed once they accept their nomination and finalize which Military Academy they plan to attend, likely by summer 2021. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pelosi-appoints-degette-serve-ndaa-conference-committee", "Pelosi appoints DeGette to serve on NDAA conference committee", "2020-11-18", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Speaker Nancy Pelosi today appointed U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) to serve among a select group of members who will be tasked with negotiating a compromise between the House and Senate's annual defense spending bills for the upcoming fiscal year.\n\nDeGette's appointment to the conference committee will provide her more than just an opportunity to sway future military funding, it will also provide her a unique opportunity to ensure that her legislation to permanently protect more than 1.4 million acres of wilderness across three states remains in the final version of the bill.\n\nThe House voted in July to attach legislation known as the Protecting America's Wilderness Act \u2013 which DeGette had originally introduced in May 2019 \u2013 as an amendment to its version of the National Defense Authorization Act.\n\nThe language, which would provide permanent protection to more than 50 unique wilderness areas in Colorado, Washington and California, would also ensure that one of the nation's top military flight schools \u2013 the High-Altitude Army National Guard Aviation Training Site, or HAATS, in Colorado \u2013 is able to continue its mission uninterrupted.\n\n\"Protecting more of our nation's wilderness for future generations to enjoy is vital not only to the overall health of our planet, but also to our nation's military who use these untouched terrains to train some of our nation's most elite pilots,\" DeGette said. \"Ensuring more of our public lands are protected under this year's NDAA bill will be one of my top priorities.\"\n\nDespite the House having included the wilderness-protection language in its version of the NDAA bill, it was not included in the version the Senate passed later that same month.\n\nNow, DeGette and others appointed to serve on the conference committee will be charged with drafting new legislation that can pass in both chambers of Congress.\n\nAnd further increasing the chances that DeGette's wilderness bill will remain in the final version of this year's NDAA, Pelosi named three other key backers of the wilderness-protection language to serve on the committee alongside DeGette: U.S. Reps. Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Salud Carbajal (D-CA).\n\nIf ultimately approved, DeGette's wilderness bill will be the largest wilderness protection bill Congress has approved for her home state of Colorado in more than 40 years.\n\nIt would provide more than 660,000 acres of wilderness in 36 unique areas across Colorado with the highest level of land protection available, including Handies Peak, Dolores River Canyon and Little Book Cliffs.\n\nMembers appointed to serve on the conference committee are expected to meet later this month to begin drafting a compromise to the House and Senate NDAA bills.\n\nOnce a compromise is reached, it must then be approved by both chambers of Congress before heading to the president to be signed into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:39:51Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pelosi-appoints-degette-to-serve-on-ndaa-conference-committee", "Pelosi appoints DeGette to serve on NDAA conference committee", "2020-11-18", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Speaker Nancy Pelosi today appointed U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) to serve among a select group of members who will be tasked with negotiating a compromise between the House and Senate's annual defense spending bills for the upcoming fiscal year.\nDeGette's appointment to the conference committee will provide her more than just an opportunity to sway future military funding, it will also provide her a unique opportunity to ensure that her legislation to permanently protect more than 1.4 million acres of wilderness across three states remains in the final version of the bill.\nThe House voted in July to attach legislation known as the Protecting America's Wilderness Act  which DeGette had originally introduced in May 2019  as an amendment to its version of the National Defense Authorization Act.\nThe language, which would provide permanent protection to more than 50 unique wilderness areas in Colorado, Washington and California, would also ensure that one of the nation's top military flight schools  the High-Altitude Army National Guard Aviation Training Site, or HAATS, in Colorado  is able to continue its mission uninterrupted.\nProtecting more of our nation's wilderness for future generations to enjoy is vital not only to the overall health of our planet, but also to our nation's military who use these untouched terrains to train some of our nation's most elite pilots,DeGette said. Ensuring more of our public lands are protected under this year's NDAA bill will be one of my top priorities.\nDespite the House having included the wilderness-protection language in its version of the NDAA bill, it was not included in the version the Senate passed later that same month.\nNow, DeGette and others appointed to serve on the conference committee will be charged with drafting new legislation that can pass in both chambers of Congress.\nAnd further increasing the chances that DeGette's wilderness bill will remain in the final version of this year's NDAA, Pelosi named three other key backers of the wilderness-protection language to serve on the committee alongside DeGette: U.S. Reps. Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Salud Carbajal (D-CA).\nIf ultimately approved, DeGette's wilderness bill will be the largest wilderness protection bill Congress has approved for her home state of Colorado in more than 40 years.\nIt would provide more than 660,000 acres of wilderness in 36 unique areas across Colorado with the highest level of land protection available, including Handies Peak, Dolores River Canyon and Little Book Cliffs.\nMembers appointed to serve on the conference committee are expected to meet later this month to begin drafting a compromise to the House and Senate NDAA bills.\nOnce a compromise is reached, it must then be approved by both chambers of Congress before heading to the president to be signed into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/crow-statement-president-trump-s-troop-withdrawal-afghanistan", "Crow Statement on President Trump\u2019s Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan", "2020-11-17", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Below please find a statement from Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO) on the news that President Trump will be reducing troop levels in Afghanistan from 4,500 to 2,500. Earlier this year, Congressman Crow introduced the Afghanistan Partnership and Transparency Act with Congresswoman Liz Cheney (R-WY) that ensures any drawdown of troops from Afghanistan is subject to thorough congressional oversight, including as it relates to U.S. national security, protections for vulnerable populations, and a commitment to forging a lasting diplomatic peace for the Afghan people. Congressman Crow is a former Army Ranger who served three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and is a member of the House Armed Services Committee.\nThe war in Afghanistan must end. Americans have carried the burden and suffered the costs of this war for two decades. We must do so in a deliberate way that both protects our troops and keeps faith with the allies that came to our aid after 9/11 and still serve with us to this day. There is a right way to do this, but President Trump has instead chosen to play politics. Our troops, the American people, and our allies deserve better.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5176", "Perlmutter Statement on Testing Positive for COVID-19", "2020-11-17", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Ed Perlmutter", "P000593", "perlmutter.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) tonight issued the following statement:\r\nI learned today that I have tested positive for COVID-19. As of now, I am asymptomatic and I'm feeling good. I am currently in Washington D.C. and plan to isolate in my apartment while continuing to work and voting remotely.\r\nI've been taking precautions like so many Coloradans over the past eight months. This serves as an important reminder that this virus is highly contagious and should be taken seriously. As we enter the holiday season, I encourage everyone to continue to heed the warnings of no personal gatherings, social distancing, and wearing a mask.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=FD52C139-040E-4126-90D6-F6FFB2588185", "Bennet Strongly Opposes Nomination of Shelton to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors", "2020-11-17", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement after voting against the nomination of Dr. Judy Shelton to serve on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. The Senate failed to invoke cloture on the Shelton nomination by a vote of 47-50:\r\n\r\nDr. Judy Shelton holds extremeviews that could undermine the Federal Reserve's independence, credibility, and effectiveness. Her extreme partisan views risk politicizing the Federal Reserveand slowing the recovery fromaneconomic crisisthat is devastating families and small businesses across Colorado.\r\n\r\nShelton has questioned whether or not our country needs a central bank. She has encouraged returning to the gold standard, a policy abandoned after ithelped catalyzethe Great Depression. She has called a convicted counterfeiter who sold gold coinsemblazonedwith President Trump's face the Rosa Parks of monetary policy.'She has also supported selling off our public lands, which isunacceptable in the state of Colorado. For all of these reasons, I voted against Shelton's nomination.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=CF1CAB07-0691-43B2-9CE8-40FAD0DE477C", "Bennet, 14 Senate Colleagues Press Facebook to Take Immediate Action to Combat Anti-Muslim Bigotry on Its Platform", "2020-11-16", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 14 Senate colleagues in urging Facebook to fully address anti-Muslim bigotry on its platform, which has enabled offline violence against Muslims in the United States and around the world.\r\nFacebook is a groundbreaking company that has revolutionized the way we communicate. Unfortunately, the connectivity that can bring people together in many positive ways also has been used to dehumanize and stoke violence against Muslims, Black people, Latinos, immigrants, the Jewish community, Sikhs, Christians, women, and other communities here and across the world,wrote Bennet and the senators.\r\nOf particular concern is how Facebook has addressed the targeting of mosques and Muslim community events by armed protesters through the platform. In June 2019, Facebook responded to concerns about these practices by creating a call to arms policy that prohibits event pages that call for individuals to bring weapons to a location. However, Bennet and his colleagues note that Facebook has not taken adequate steps to enforce this policy, which should have barred an event page in Kenosha, Wisconsin earlier this year, as well as a 2019 event page used to plan an armed protest at the largest Muslim community convention in the country.\r\nWe recognize that Facebook has announced efforts to address its role in the distribution of anti-Muslim content in some of these areas,wrote the senators.Nevertheless, it is not clear that the company is meaningfully better positioned to prevent further human rights abuses and violence against Muslim minorities today.\r\nThey continued:As members of Congress who are deeply disturbed by the proliferation of this hate speech on your platform, we urge you to do more.\r\nAn independent civil rights audit of Facebook from July 2020 highlighted disturbing examples of anti-Muslim abuse on the platform ranging [f]rom the organization of events designed to intimidate members of the Muslim community at gathering places, to the prevalence of content demonizing Islam and Muslims, and the use of Facebook Live during the Christchurch massacre These concerns have also prompted current Facebook employees to write a letter demanding action on anti-Muslim bigotry and calling for broader structural changes.\r\nIn their letter, Bennet and the senators urge Facebook to take a number of actions to address these issues including collecting and publishing the data needed to understand the scope of the problem, publishing readily available information to help the public evaluate its response, and implementing a plan to ensure robust enforcement of its call to arms policy.\r\nIn July, Bennet and U.S. Senator Kamala Harris (D-Calif.)wroteto Facebook urging the company to strengthen efforts to protect civil rights, remove hate speech, and combat voter suppression on its platforms by heeding recommendations of a two-year long audit of the company's civil rights policies and practices. In February, Bennet alsocalledon Facebook to assume greater responsibility for the damage its platforms have caused to fundamental democratic values around the world, describing Facebook's inadequate steps to limit misinformation in elections, attacks on journalists, and hate speech that has led to violence.\r\nIn addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Christopher Coons (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).\r\nGroups supporting the letter includeMuslim Advocates, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, Center for American Progress, Human Rights Watch, Human Rights Campaign, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, Free Press, Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, Interfaith Alliance, Japanese American Citizens League, MediaJustice, National Hispanic Media Coalition, Shoulder to Shoulder, Sikh Coalition, and UltraViolet.\r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Mr. Zuckerberg:\r\nWe write to express our deep concern regarding anti-Muslim bigotry on Facebook. An independent civil rights audit of the company from July 2020 highlighted disturbing examples of anti-Muslim abuse on the platform ranging [f]rom the organization of events designed to intimidate members of the Muslim community at gathering places, to the prevalence of content demonizing Islam and Muslims, and the use of Facebook Live during the Christchurch massacre . . . . These concerns have also prompted current Facebook employees to write a letter demanding action on anti-Muslim bigotry and calling for broader structural changes. As members of Congress who are committed to protecting the Muslim community, we urge you to take immediate action to combat this bigotry on Facebook's platforms.\r\nFacebook is a groundbreaking company that has revolutionized the way we communicate. Unfortunately, the connectivity that can bring people together in many positive ways also has been used to dehumanize and stoke violence against Muslims, Black people, Latinos, immigrants, the Jewish community, Sikhs, Christians, women, and other communities here and across the world. The enabling of hate speech and violence against any group is not acceptable. We appreciate that Facebook has taken certain steps to combat these problems. For instance, you recently reversed a prior decision that had allowed content denying the Holocaust, and you have altered your policies to ban blackface and certain anti-Jewish stereotypes. But much more must be done to protect these vulnerable communities. With regard to the Muslim community in particular, the civil rights audit noted advocates' alarm that Muslims feel under siege on Facebook and explained how attacks on Muslims present unique considerations that require separate analysis and response compared to other kinds of attacks. Yet, the auditors noted, Facebook has not yet publicly studied or acknowledged the particular ways anti-Muslim bigotry manifests on its platform.\r\nOf particular concern is how Facebook has addressed the targeting of mosques and Muslim community events by armed protesters through the platform. In June 2019, Facebook responded to concerns about these practices by creating a call to arms policy that prohibits event pages that call for individuals to bring weapons to locations. Yet, in August 2019, when advocates reported to Facebook that a militia group was using an event page to plan an armed protest at the largest Muslim community convention in the country for the second year in a row, it took Facebook more than a full day to remove the content, a delay that Facebook acknowledged was too long and an enforcement misstep.\r\nOther recent events have demonstrated how Facebook has not taken adequate steps to enforce this call to arms policy. In August 2020, a group called the Kenosha Guard posted an event page titled Armed Citizens to Protect Our Lives and Property, calling for armed individuals to gather in Kenosha, Wisconsin, following the shooting of Jacob Blake. Notwithstanding multiple reports by users that this page violated Facebook policies, Facebook did not take the page down. An armed 17-year-old traveled from out of state to join this gathering, fatally shot two protestors that night, and is charged with their murder. You stated that the failure to take down the event page and the Kenosha Guard's group page was largely an operational mistake because contract content moderators without specialized training failed to detect that the pages violated a new militia policy Facebook had established in August 2020. Your statement was misleading as to the event page, however, because it did not mention that the event page also violated the call to arms policy that had been in place for over a year. Importantly, we understand that the contractors who review user-reported content are not instructed to enforce a core component of the call to arms policy. It is not apparent that Facebook ensures meaningful enforcement of this policy, and that is not acceptable. As the Change the Terms Coalition has explained, that isn't an operational mistake  that's a design defect.\r\nWe have similar concerns about Facebook's efforts to ensure that the platform is not used to enable systematic violence and discrimination against Muslims around the world. A United Nations report concluded that the company played a determining role in violence against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, and Facebook has similarly acknowledged that the platform was used to foment division and incite offline violence against the Rohingya. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. According to a New York Times report published a month after anti-Muslim violence erupted in Sri Lanka in March 2018, Facebook's newsfeed played a central role in nearly every step from rumor to killing, despite numerous attempts by Sri Lankan activists and government officials to warn Facebook about potential outbreaks of violence. In an especially horrific episode of anti-Muslim activity on Facebook, in March 2019, a white nationalist gunman broadcasted his 17-minute slaughter of 51 Muslims at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, for the entire world to see using Facebook Live. Reports indicate that the platform has also been used to support the internment of the Uyghurs in China and other human rights violations against this population, that Facebook and WhatsApp have been used to incite violence against Muslims in India, and that Facebook has been used to promote hate and violence in other areas around the world.\r\nThe civil rights audit and other reports have documented the shortcomings of Facebook that have led to these results over the years. The United Nations explained in 2018 that Facebook launched its Myanmar-specific services without content moderators who spoke the necessary languages, without adequate technology, and without sufficient transparency and coordination with local organizations. It also documented how speech in clear violation of Facebook's policies remained on the platform notwithstanding multiple reports, and how even after the speech was taken down, re-posts continued to circulate months later. Furthermore, the civil rights audit found that Facebook is not sufficiently attuned to how its algorithms fuel extreme and polarizing content, and thereby may driv[e] people toward self-reinforcing echo chambers of extremism, as seen in Myanmar and Sri Lanka. Advocacy groups similarly detailed the extent and persistence of anti-Muslim hate content on Facebook India in multiple reports last year, concerns that have been amplified by recent allegations that some high-ranking employees at Facebook India have enabled hate speech against Muslims and others by applying the platform's content moderation policies in a selective manner.\r\nWe recognize that Facebook has announced efforts to address its role in the distribution of anti-Muslim content in some of these areas. These include, for instance, adding country-specific staff and content moderators proficient in certain local languages, investing in proactive detection technologies, strengthening local fact-checking partnerships, and limiting the ability to reshare certain kinds of messages.\r\nNevertheless, it is not clear that the company is meaningfully better positioned to prevent further human rights abuses and violence against Muslim minorities today. In part, this is because Facebook still does not collect the information needed to evaluate the effectiveness of its responses. For instance, Facebook reported that it took action on 22 million pieces of hate speech content in the second quarter of 2020, up from over 9 million in the first quarter. It is not apparent, however, whether this is a sign of an improving or worsening problem, because this data lacks crucial context: Facebook does not calculate or report on the overall prevalence of hate speech on the platform. It is thus unclear how significant this increase is as a proportion of total hate speech or whether takedowns are increasing only because hate content on the platform is increasing. Facebook recognizes that the statistic it reports only tells part of the story, and Facebook does estimate prevalence in other contexts. Its failure to do so as to hate speech is concerning.\r\nIn addition, the civil rights audit pointed out that for content that Facebook does remove, the company does not collect data about which protected groups were the target of the removed post. This prevents Facebook and the public from understanding the volume of hate against a particular group, whether attacks against certain groups are consistently not removed, and whether there are gaps in Facebook's policies that result in perpetuating or increasing hate speech and attacks against particular groups. It is difficult to understand how Facebook can effectively combat hate speech without this information.\r\nThere is also basic information that Facebook has or could readily make available, but which it has inexplicably declined to make public. For instance, while pointing to its increases in country-specific staff and language-specific content moderators in certain areas, Facebook has declined repeated requests from advocates to provide detailed information about its country-specific staff or language-specific content moderators across the world. Such information is necessary to evaluate Facebook's suggestion that its additions are adequate and to determine whether there are gaps in coverage in other regions that should be addressed proactively before the next violent event. Facebook similarly does not provide information about how the hate speech it has taken down is disaggregated by language or country of origin, information that would help identify volatile areas in need of further attention from content moderators or others at Facebook. That is so even though Facebook has conceded that [t]hese breakdowns are feasible for these count-based metrics and that it recognize[s] the value in having different subpopulations of the various metrics. The United Nations 2018 Myanmar report expressed regret[] that Facebook did not provide country-specific data about hate speech and deemed it essential that such information be disclosed. \r\nThough these concerns have been raised for years, Facebook thus far has not taken the steps required to effectively address hate and violence targeting Muslims. In 2018, Facebook acknowledged that it can and should do better after its platform fueled violence in Myanmar and outlined steps it would take. In 2020, Facebook apologize[d] for the human rights impacts that resulted from misuse of its platform in Sri Lanka and outlined more steps. Despite these experiences, recent reporting suggests that today, Facebook is contributing to the spread of hate speech and violence against ethnic and religious groups in Ethiopia, where Facebook dominates the internet. Meanwhile, it announced a call to arms policy to assuage concerns but has failed to adequately enforce it. As members of Congress who are deeply disturbed by the proliferation of this hate speech on your platform, we urge you to do more. We believe Facebook must frankly and openly detail the scope of the problem and take concerted and sustained actions to address this problem fully. We respectfully request that you respond to the questions below by December 16, 2020. As to each question, insofar as Facebook will commit to taking action, please provide details of its plan and expected timing.\r\n \r\nWill Facebook commit to developing and implementing a plan to ensure robust enforcement of its call to arms policy, including through proactive review of event pages, content moderator review of user reports, and prioritization of highly reported events? If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook commit to collecting and publishing data about the overall amount and prevalence of hate content on the platform and whether hate content is increasing on its platform? If so, please specify whether Facebook will break down this data by country and language. If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook commit to collecting and publishing data about which groups were the subject of the hate speech it removes and enforcement rates across groups? If so, please specify the groups for which Facebook will provide this information. If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook commit to collecting and publishing country-specific or language-specific data on hate speech that is on or removed from the platform? If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook publish detailed information about the number of country-specific staff and language-specific content moderators it employs? If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook commit to studying regularly its civil rights and human rights impacts and making future human rights impact assessments or rights audits public in their entirety? If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook commit to establishing and publishing criteria that must be met for Facebook to expand or maintain usage of its services in markets at risk of hate content fueling religious and/or ethnic violence to ensure Facebook does not enable human rights violations? If so, please specify the outside input that Facebook will solicit in developing these criteria. If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook conduct an analysis of how it can better design its systems and algorithms to not just identify and take down hate speech, but limit the reach of this content and its ability to cause offline violence? If not, why not?\r\nWill Facebook commit to creating a working group led by a senior employee with expertise in anti-Muslim bigotry specifically tasked with monitoring, reviewing, and coordinating efforts to proactively remove anti-Muslim content on the platform? If not, why not?\r\n \r\nThank you for your consideration of our views. We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=DF28498D-9EB3-4ED3-8F17-3EAA33994DD0", "Bennet Nominates San Juan Basin Public Health Executive Director Liane Jollon for Outstanding Government Service Award", "2020-11-16", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced he has nominated Liane Jollon, Executive Director of San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) and Past President of the Colorado Association of Local Public Health Officials (CALPHO), for the American Medical Association's (AMA) Dr. Nathan Davis Awards for Outstanding Government Service. Named for the founder of the AMA, the awards recognize elected officials and career public servants for significant contributions to the advancement of public health.\r\nSince the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jollon has been a critical part of the public health response in southwest Colorado. She has been a calm, informed, and resourceful leader, advocating not just for her region, but for every other public health agency across the state. Jollon has the marks of a true leader -- the ability to maintain hope, weather setbacks, and maintain good humor, in the face of what seems an endless crisis,said Bennet. Jollon has earned the trust of Coloradans, and the fierce loyalty and respect of her staff. She has displayed the leadership and scientific integrity that 2020 demanded. In recognition of her exemplary work as a leader in public health, I am thrilled to nominate her for this award.\"\r\nLiane has been a stand-out leader both locally and in the State of Colorado during this COVID-19 pandemic,said SJBPH Board of Health President Ann Bruzzese.Early on, Liane led with humility helping all the local leaders get comfortable acknowledging that they will have to lead through COVID-19 with many unknowns; at the same time, Liane set the early example for all to follow the data and facts.\r\nLiane truly has a way of fiercely fighting for critical resources that many smaller communities often lack, yet, she does so with the type of passion that yields results,said Silver Thread Public Health District Director Tara Hardy.If anyone deserves recognition for exemplary leadership in public health not just during this crisis, but throughout her career, it is Liane Jollon.\r\nAs the public health director for a health district that serves two counties and 4 municipalities, Liane's innate ability to think strategically while acting tactically has ensured that the citizens of the health district have clearly articulated guidance to protect themselves, and others, as we respond to the COVID-19 pandemic,said La Plata County Manager Noel C. Chuck Stevens.Liane challenges all members of the community at large to think critically, act creatively, and challenge the status quo in developing solutions to the myriad problem sets that present because of the pandemic.\r\nGood leaders, which I believe exist throughout our community, need great leadership in crisis. Thankfully, that is what Liane Jollon has delivered for our community, exceptional community leadership under the most difficult of circumstances,said Tom Stritikus, President of Fort Lewis College.Managing a global pandemic is a 24/7 task and Ms. Jollon's commitment to our community is unrivaled. There is no call, no concern, no question she will not take.\r\nAfter spending the first 15 years of her career in the non-profit sector, Jollon left to earn her nursing degree. She joined SJBPH as a clinic nurse and quickly demonstrated deep understanding of public health issues and leadershipabilities. In 2013, she was named Executive Director of SJBPH. In 2019, she was selected as the president of CALPHO andhelped lead Colorado's public health response to the pandemic from this position as well.\r\nBennet and his office have worked with Jollon and other state and local public health leaders throughoutthe pandemic. In May, Jollon joined Bennet and other leaders for adiscussionabout the need for a national Health Force to bolster public health efforts and put Coloradans back to work. In July, Bennetmetwith Jollon and CALPHO board members to hear about local response efforts and take feedback on how Washington can help. In early October, Bennet joined Jollon for a meetingwith Archuleta County leadership where he heard about how the pandemic and economic downturn is putting tremendous strain on their communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lawmakers-oppose-trump-administration-plan-expand-global-gag-rule", "Lawmakers oppose Trump Administration plan to expand Global Gag Rule", "2020-11-13", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 More than 140 members of the U.S. House of Representatives \u2013 led by U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Nita Lowey (D-NY) \u2013 sent a letter today to the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Department of State and Department of Health and Human Services expressing their opposition to the administration's plan to expand the so-called Global Gag Rule, which prohibits foreign organizations that receive U.S. global health assistance from providing information, referrals, or services for abortion care.\n\nThe letter comes as part of a 60-day public comment period the federal government recently opened up to solicit feedback on the administration's proposal to expand its prohibition on discussing or providing abortion care to patients to all global health contracts.\n\n\"No organization should be forced to choose between providing patients with access to life-saving medical care or accepting U.S. aid that they need to stay open,\" said DeGette, who serves as co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus. \"The Global Gag Rule is nothing more than another dangerous attempt to eliminate women's rights to reproductive care worldwide and should be withdrawn immediately.\"\n\n\"This administration's expanded Global Gag Rule has gravely diminished the effectiveness of U.S. foreign assistance, silenced medical professionals, threatened the health of the world's most vulnerable women at an unprecedented level, and has forced clinics to choose between providing limited reproductive health services while accepting U.S. foreign aid or providing inclusive family planning and reproductive health care with a limited budget,\" said Lowey.\n\nThe lawmakers noted that the State Department's own review of the Global Gag Rule, which was released in August 2020, showed serious disruptions to global health programming. Organizations have reported receiving little guidance from the U.S. government on how the rule should be implemented, leading some to overreach the policy's restrictions out of fear and uncertainty of being out of compliance.\n\nIn opposing the administration's proposal to expand the rule further, the lawmakers stressed that expanding the policy would likely produce more confusion and negatively impact the availability of health services around the world.\n\nThe lawmakers emphasized that now, during an unprecedented global pandemic, is not the time to expand a policy that threatens to limit access to vital health care programs, including those related to treating and preventing the spread of COVID-19.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:39:51Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lawmakers-oppose-trump-administration-plan-to-expand-global-gag-rule", "Lawmakers oppose Trump Administration plan to expand Global Gag Rule", "2020-11-13", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. More than 140 members of the U.S. House of Representatives  led by U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Nita Lowey (D-NY)  sent a letter today to the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Department of State and Department of Health and Human Services expressing their opposition to the administration's plan to expand the so-called Global Gag Rule, which prohibits foreign organizations that receive U.S. global health assistance from providing information, referrals, or services for abortion care.\nThe letter comes as part of a 60-day public comment period the federal government recently opened up to solicit feedback on the administration's proposal to expand its prohibition on discussing or providing abortion care to patients to all global health contracts.\nNoorganizationshould be forced to choose between providing patients withaccess tolife-saving medical care or accepting U.S. aidthatthey need to stay open, said DeGette, who serves as co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus. The Global Gag Rule is nothing more than another dangerous attempt to eliminate women's rightsto reproductive care worldwide and should be withdrawn immediately.\nThis administration's expanded Global Gag Rule has gravely diminished the effectiveness of U.S. foreign assistance, silenced medical professionals, threatened the health of the world's most vulnerable women at an unprecedented level, and has forced clinics to choose between providing limited reproductive health services while accepting U.S. foreign aid or providing inclusivefamily planning and reproductive health care with a limited budget, said Lowey.\nThe lawmakers noted that the State Department's own review of the Global Gag Rule, which was released in August 2020, showed serious disruptions to global health programming. Organizations have reported receiving little guidance from the U.S. government on how the rule should be implemented, leading some to overreach the policy's restrictions out of fear and uncertainty of being out of compliance.\nIn opposing the administration's proposal to expand the rule further, the lawmakers stressed that expanding the policy would likely produce more confusion and negatively impact the availability of health services around the world.\nThe lawmakers emphasized that now, during an unprecedented global pandemic, is not the time to expanda policy that threatens to limit access to vital health care programs, including those related to treating and preventing the spread of COVID-19.\nA copy of the lawmakers' letter is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=71A46398-BB1E-490D-A802-62505A5BD0CE", "Bennet Demands Answers from New DoD Head on Misuse of Critical Pandemic Response Funds Intended for Medical Supply Production", "2020-11-13", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet demanded answers and action from Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller following reports that the department redirected critical funds intended for personal protective equipment (PPE), including N95 masks, and testing supplies. As Miller steps into his new role leading the Department of Defense(DoD), Bennet pressed the Acting Secretary on the rationalefor diverting these funds away from pandemic response efforts while the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) death toll continued to rise.\r\nIn March, Congress passedtheCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Actin response to the COVID-19 outbreak and appropriated $1 billion to the DoDunder theDefense Production Act(DPA)to increase access to materials necessary for national security and pandemic recovery with the specific intent to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.\r\nAWashington Postreport recently revealed that the Pentagon allocated millions inDPA funds intended for medical supply production to companies with no clear connection to pandemic response efforts, including millions of dollars for shipbuilding, drone technology, Army dress uniforms, and an aircraft parts company.\r\nThe Pentagon's use of DPA funds beyond the direct pandemic response falls outside Congressional intent, and is even more disturbing given the shortage of PPE persists over eight months into the pandemic. This is precisely what the DPA was designed to prevent,wrote Bennet in his letter to Acting Secretary Miller.The COVID-19 pandemic has claimed over 230,000 American lives, and as you start to lead the DoD, I urge you to utilize the DPA to ensure the nation has all the resources necessary to face COVID-19 effectively.\r\nBennet has advocated for stronger implementation of the DPA since the beginning of the pandemic. In April, Bennet joined 15 of his colleagues incalling on the Trump Administrationand its Coronavirus Task Force to make full use of the DPA to better protect veterans, health care professionals, and all Americans during the pandemic. Bennet also cosponsoredtheMedical Supply Transparency and Delivery Actwhich requires the president to use all available authorities under the DPAto federalize the supplychain for criticalmedicalsupplies andequipment and to add crucialnew oversight and transparency. In March, Bennetledevery Senate Democrat in calling on the administration to use its authorities under theDPAand to develop a national strategy to produce enough testing, supplies, and equipment to fight the pandemic.\r\nThe text of theletteris availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Acting Secretary Miller:\r\nIwrite to expressmyextreme concern regarding the persistent shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), specifically N95 masks, for health care providers and front-line workers and other supplies, like reagents, needed for increased testing across the nation.\r\nThese products are critical to keeping workers safe and curtailing the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Masks do not just protect workers, but also the general public. On September 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert Redfield said that masks are the most important, powerful public health tool we have.[1]Since the beginning of the pandemic, health care workers and front-line employees at grocery stores, post offices, and other community staples have faced barriers in procuring PPE. Months later, these providers continue to face these barriers and are left with having to reuse PPE.\r\nIn March 2020, Congress passedThe Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Actin the immediate aftermath of the COVID-19outbreak to respond to the critical health and economic demands facing the nation.[2]InThe CARES Act, Congress appropriated $1 billion to the Department of Defense (DoD) underthe Defense Production Act(DPA) to increase access to materials necessary for national security and pandemic recoverywith the specific intent to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.[3]This would, in theory, include the production of N95 masks and other PPE.However,The Washington Post reported that the Pentagon allocated parts of these vital funds to companies with no clear connection to COVID-19 response efforts, including millions of dollars for shipbuilding, drone technology, Army dress uniforms, and an aircraft parts company, disregarding Congressional intent.[4]\r\nThe Pentagon's use of DPA funds beyond the direct pandemic response falls outside Congressional intent, and is even more disturbing given the shortage of PPE persists over eight months into the pandemic. This is precisely what the DPA was designed to prevent. According to a recent survey conducted by theAmerican Nurses Association, one in three of 20,000 nurses say they are out or short of N95 masks.[5]Sixty-eight percent of these nurses say they are required to reuse single-use PPE, and fifty-eight percent say they are reusing masks for five or more days. The majority of these nurses indicated that they do not feel safe with these practices. This sentiment reflects broader concerns among health care and front-line workers across the nation.\r\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has claimed over 230,000 American lives, and as you start to lead the DoD, I urge you to utilize the DPA to ensure the nation has all the resources necessary to faceCOVID-19 effectively. The Congressional intent and national shortagesdemonstrate that DPA funds allocated through theCARES Actshould have been used to procure PPE and other critical supplies.\r\nIn light of your new authorities, I urge you torespond to the following inquiries no later than December 1, 2020:\r\n \r\nDescribe in detail how the DoD plans to use DPA authority to increase the production of PPE and other medical supplies this year to address COVID-19. If the DoD does not plan on using the DPA for this purpose, explain why.\r\nProvide Congress with a report listing each award that the Department of Defense has granted, including to whom and for what purpose, to procure PPE.\r\nDetail the amount of funding that was allocated specifically for medical production purposes and the amount allocated for other pandemic response purposes.\r\nDescribe the approval process at DoD for using DPA funds outside of what they were set forth for by the CARES Act and other law. Please detail if, when, and how you communicated this intent change to Congress.\r\n \r\nThank you for your prompt attention to this pressing matter, and I look forward to your response.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=AE6E3AD5-6DB6-44B8-BBCA-96D39AEB0603", "Bennet Urges Administration to Reverse Course on Restrictions for International Students and Journalists", "2020-11-13", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "DenverToday, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet called on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and theU.S.Department of State(DOS)to rescind a proposed rule to limit visa lengths for international students and journalists. By drastically decreasing eligible visa lengths and removing flexibility, this rule will deny journalists opportunities to promote America'sfreedom of thepress. It will also harmAmerica's institutions of higher education and local economiesthat depend on international studentswho bring diversity and talent and conduct important research at these institutions.\r\nColleges, universities, and other institutions of higher education rely on international students for diversity, research, and tuition revenue, and the proposed DHS rule will dramatically hinder these valuable contributions. The blanket fixed-year limit with no guarantee of an extension will also undermine colleges' and universities' ability to plan their budgets and anticipate their research capabilities,wroteBennetin the letter to Acting Secretary Chad Wolf and Secretary Mike Pompeo.This rule, coupled with executive orders to limit employment-based visas, undermines Colorado and the country's talent pipeline that is crucial to future economic competitiveness and stability.\r\nOur state has a long history of welcoming individuals from all over the world to attend our institutions of higher education, allowing Colorado to continue a tradition of academic excellence.Moreover, these barriers directly contradict our history as a nation of welcoming immigrants and creating economic opportunities for all,continued Bennet.\r\nDuring theCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)pandemic, Bennet has also challenged other administration decisions and policies that would create instability for international students and institutions of higher education. In July, Bennetjoined97 of his Congressional colleaguesinurging U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) andDHSto withdraw guidance from ICE that threatened international students with deportation should they notenroll inin-person classes for theFall 2020 and Spring 2021 semesters.\r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Acting Secretary Wolf and Secretary Pompeo:\r\n\r\nI write to express serious concerns about the rule the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed that truncates F, J, and I visa durations to a fixed time period (DHS Docket No. ICEB-2019-0006), and to urge DHS to rescind it. I ask that the Department of State (DoS) continue to provide visas along with the existing terms.\r\n\r\nIf implemented, the policy would require international students andrepresentatives of foreign media outletsin the United States who wish to remain in the United States beyond their specifically authorized admission period to apply for an extension of stay directly with USCIS or to depart the country and apply for admission with CBP at a port of entry (POE). In addition to dramatically restricting the duration of stay for international students, and hindering their opportunity to complete their degrees, the rule also includes a xenophobic attempt to deny opportunities to promote America's press freedoms by limiting the length of time foreign journalists are admitted into the country.\r\n\r\nIn 2018, Colorado hosted 11,888 international students across its institutions of higher education. In the classroom, international students bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the educational experience for all. Beyond the academic community, international students bring enormous benefits to our state. While Colorado hosted only a fraction of the 1.1 million total international students in the United States last year, these students contributed$470.7 millionto the state's economy and supported over 6,000 jobs.\r\n\r\nThe proposed rule will also undoubtedly harm the nation's institutions of higher education, including the numerous colleges and universities in Colorado. During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the federal government should take steps to assuage hardships for institutions of higher education to operate and preserve their financial stability. Colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher education rely on international students for diversity, research, and tuition revenue, and the proposed DHS rule will dramatically hinder these valuable contributions. The blanket fixed-year limit with no guarantee of an extension will also undermine colleges' and universities' ability to plan their budgets and anticipate their research capabilities. This Administration has added an unnecessary bureaucratic restriction by denying schools the opportunity to make appropriate decisions for their students, staff, and the broader community to reflect their unique situations. Institutions of higher education need a strong partner in the federal government, not an Administration that uses their students as a way to further abuse immigration policies.\r\n\r\nInternational students tend to lean toward the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math, and contribute skills that support innovation and competition for our employers. This rule, coupled with executive orders to limit employment-based visas, undermines Colorado and the country's talent pipeline that is crucial to future economic competitiveness and stability. Requiring F, J, and I visa-holders to apply for an extension will exacerbate existing visa processing backlogs at DHS agencies, further complicating the application process.\r\n\r\nOur state has a long history of welcoming individuals from all over the world to attend our institutions of higher education, allowing Colorado to continue a tradition of academic excellence. The proposed rule and other barriers against visas such as closed consulates and travel restrictions are undermining that tradition and our schools, students, and academic communities. Moreover, these barriers directly contradict our history as a nation of welcoming immigrants and creating economic opportunities for all.\r\n\r\nI urge the Administration to rescind this harmful policy and instead promote immigration decisions that benefit Colorado's institutions of higher education and further our efforts to welcome and encourage immigrants to attend our universities.\r\n\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=D4DA9C95-BE2F-4DEE-9CDB-5803750F0EF9", "Bennet, Senate Colleagues Urge Appropriators to Fund Wildfire Recovery in the West", "2020-11-13", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "DenverColorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet ledU.S.Senators Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in two separate requeststo theU.S.Senate Committee on Appropriationsfor federal funding to support wildfire recovery efforts in the West.\r\nIn the first request, Bennet, Gardner, Feinstein, and Wyden urgedthe Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agenciesto secureadditionalfunding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program tomeet projected demand in Colorado and elsewhere. The letter also calls on thesubcommittee to reduce costs to local project sponsors in light of the effect of theCoronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)pandemic on state and local budgets. The EWP program helps counties, towns, and private property owners protect against post-fire damage.Additional funding, and greater flexibility on cost share requirements, would ensure that the USDA canpartner effectively with state and local governments to recover from wildfires.\r\nIn the second request, the senators called onthe Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agenciesto secureadditional fundingforthe U.S. Forest Service (USFS)to rehabilitate Forest Service landsafter a devastating wildfire season.Wildfires burned on millions of acres of public land across the West, including high-use forests across Colorado, and the cost of repair and rehabilitation of these lands is significant. Without additional funding for reforestation, trail and facility repair, and habitat restoration, the USFS may be forced to divert funding from existing programs or leave important recovery projectsundone.\r\nIn the letter toSubcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Chairman John Hoeven(R-N.D.) and Ranking Member Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.)Bennet and the senators wrote, Congress created USDA's EWP Program in 1973 to help communities mitigate damage after a natural disaster. EWP is funded on an ad hoc basis, but as of August 25, the USDA had less than $45 million left to spend on EWP recovery projects. Without supplemental funding, it will be challenging for the USDA to partner effectively with counties, towns, and private property owners as they recover from natural disasters. Therefore, we ask the Committee to provide supplemental funding to USDA that will meet demand for the EWP program.\r\nIn the letter toSubcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Chairman LisaMurkowski(R-Alaska) and Ranking Member Tom Udall (D-N.M.),Bennetand the senators wrote, As fire crews across the West work to contain the remaining fires, post-fire recovery is at the forefront of our constituents' minds. Our states face an uphill battle to restore land, water, infrastructure, and ecosystems. In the long-term, recovery will require the U.S. Forest Service to invest in rehabilitation on National Forest System lands, including reforestation, repairing trails and facilities, restoring habitat, and other measures. These long-term rehabilitation efforts are vital to our economy in the West and the U.S. Forest Service's partnership is crucial.\r\nBennet recently visitedGrandandLarimercounties to meet with local officials and firstresponders to assess the damage from the East Troublesome fire and the Cameron Peak fire.\r\nIn September, Bennet led Gardner and U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse and Scott Tipton inurgingUSDA to quickly approve EWP funding to mitigate and recover from wildfire damage. Days later, Bennetannouncedthe USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) approved the first tranche of EWP funds for $5 million worth of projects in Colorado to mitigate and recover from wildfires. Later that month, Bennet and a group of Western Democratic senators sent a letter to President Donald Trump asking him toprovide additional federal assistanceto improve the response to wildfires and assist the states, Tribes, and communities grappling with fires and their aftermath.\r\nIn October, Bennet, Neguse, and Gardner sent a letter to the USFS and NRCS torequestthat they work with the State of Colorado and local governments to address the threat posed by multiple fires to the region's watersheds and water supply. He also joined his colleagues inaskingthe National Guard for a report on its readiness to help states prepare, fight, and recover from wildfires. Later that month, BenneturgedSecretary of Interior David Bernhardt and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue to improve pay, job stability, and benefits for federal wildfire personnel.\r\nAs Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee's Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources Subcommittee, Bennet has consistently worked in Congress to improve EWP project deliveryurgingthe Government Accountability Officeto provide recommendations for improvement andintroducingthe MATCH Actwith U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) to expedite cleanup and increase flexibility for local matching requirements.Bennet continues to advocate for federal funding to support wildfire relief efforts across Colorado and the West.\r\nThe textof theLetterto the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agenciesis availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Chairman Hoeven and Ranking Member Merkley:                    \r\nWe write to request that you include supplemental appropriations for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program in a future appropriations bill.                  \r\nThe EWP Program is a critical resource to assist our states as they recover from this year's wildfires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. This year, fires across the West have consumed millions of acres, with the three largest fires in Colorado's history occurring over the past few months, while the Southeast faced a record number of hurricanes. These disasters will continue to threaten watersheds, private property, and critical infrastructure for weeks and months to come.                  \r\nCongress created USDA's EWP Program in 1973 to help communities mitigate damage after a natural disaster. EWP is funded on an ad hoc basis, but as of August 25, the USDA had less than $45 million left to spend on EWP recovery projects. Without supplemental funding, it will be challenging for the USDA to partner effectively with counties, towns, and private property owners as they recover from natural disasters. Therefore, we ask the Committee to provide supplemental funding to USDA that will meet demand for the EWP program.           \r\nIn addition to funding, we encourage the Committee to consider the unique economic circumstances that the COVID-19 pandemic has created. States and municipalities coping with natural disasters are also facing severe budget shortfalls and may struggle to afford the local match that the federal government typically requires for EWP projects. Therefore, we encourage the Committee to provide direction that would allow the USDA to cover up to 100% of EWP project costs, where appropriate.                  \r\nThank you for considering this request and we look forward to working with you.           \r\nSincerely,\r\nThe text of theLetterto the Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Udall:\r\nAs you work to develop future appropriations bills, we request that you include funding for the United States Forest Service (USFS) to rehabilitate and repair federal lands affected by wildfires.    \r\nThe West continues to face one of its worst fire seasons ever, with the National Interagency Fire Center estimating that over 47,000 fires have consumed more than 8.5 million acres. Over two- thirds of the affected acreage is on federal land and almost 4 million, or 45 percent, is U.S. Forest Service land. Significant wildfires affected Forest Service land in Colorado, Oregon, Wyoming, and elsewhere.\r\nAs fire crews across the West work to contain the remaining fires, post-fire recovery is at the forefront of our constituents' minds. Our states face an uphill battle to restore land, water, infrastructure, and ecosystems. In the long-term, recovery will require the U.S. Forest Service to invest in rehabilitation on National Forest System lands, including reforestation, repairing trails and facilities, restoring habitat, and other measures. These long-term rehabilitation efforts are vital to our economy in the West and the U.S. Forest Service's partnership is crucial.\r\nHowever, we are concerned that the U.S. Forest Service lacks sufficient funding for long-term rehabilitation and recovery. While both the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service have authority to fund short-term stabilization, the U.S. Forest Service lacks the authority to use suppression funds for long-term burned area rehabilitation and recovery. As a result, the Forest Service must either divert funding from other programs or leave important recovery projects undone. Therefore, we ask that you include funding, and any necessary direction, for the U.S. Forest Service to perform long-term wildfire recovery and rehabilitation.\r\nThank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to working with you.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-neguse-leads-congressional-letter-to-departments-of-agriculture-and-interior-to-increase-late-season-wildfire-resources", "Representative Neguse Leads Congressional Letter to Departments of Agriculture and Interior to Increase Late-Season Wildfire Resources", "2020-11-12", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 12, 2020\n\t\t\t Representative Neguse Leads Congressional Letter to Departments of Agriculture and Interior to Increase Late-Season Wildfire Resources \n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and Congresswoman Katie Porter, along with some of their congressional colleagues from the Western United States, sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, requesting contract extensions and increased funding for Interagency Hotshot Crews (IHC) fighting wildfires. IHCs are critical firefighting crews contracted for fire season, but as we move later into the year, many of these contracts expire and there are fewer crews available to fight fires that burn late into the season.\r\nThis year, we have continued to see the devastating effects of wildfires in our communities, as intense fires late in the season have burned hundreds of thousands of acres and forced thousands to evacuate from their homes, said Congressman Joe Neguse. As crews continue to battle fires all across the West, we must work to ensure there are enough IHCs available to fight these late-season wildfires. Extending the contracts of available crews would be a huge help to our communities who are struggling to obtain enough resources to continue fighting the deadly and destructive fires.\r\nCalifornia is experiencing the worst wildfire season on record, and our communities need every tool they can get to stay safe,said Congresswoman Katie Porter.Hundreds of acres have been destroyed and thousands of families have had to evacuate their homes. My heart breaks for those who have been affected, but I am grateful for the brave first responders and firefighters who have worked tirelessly to protect our communities. It's critical the federal government continues to provide assistance and extend IHC contracts for crews who are still available to help fight these fires.\r\nThe letter can be found here.\r\nThe two largest wildfires in Colorado history are currently burning in the Second Congressional District. The Cameron Peak Fire in Larimer County, the largest in state history, has now burned 208,913 acres; while the East Troublesome Fire in Grand County, the second largest in state history, has burned 193,812 acres. Also in Grand County is the Williams Fork Fire, 14, 833 acres, and Boulder County is still fighting the Calwood Fire at 10,106 acres.\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=35C13BF3-5F39-4E3B-9ABF-3D08C746FE60", "Bennet Interviews U.S. Navy SEAL Veteran for Library of Congress Veterans History Project on Veterans Day", "2020-11-11", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet interviewed Colorado-based U.S. Navy SEAL veteran Josh Jespersen for the Veterans History Project. Download a recording of the interviewHERE.\r\nTheVeterans History Projectis an effort by the Library of Congress to preserve the historic experiences of those who served in the United States military by recording their personal narratives and archiving them for future use by historians, teachers, and the general public. This year, the Veterans History Project is celebrating its 20th anniversary.\r\nOn this Veterans Day, I want to thank Josh for his service to our country,said Bennet. I'd also like to thank Josh for his continued leadership and service to the state of Colorado and veterans all over the country. We deeply appreciate it, and I'm so proud Josh decided to call Colorado home.\r\nWhat I've learned in all my years after the military and what I've learned while I was in the military has all led to this one realization: don't let the military be the greatest thing you ever did,said Jespersen. You have the chance to write that next chapter in your life. In our world that is so uncontrollable, the one thing you can control is yourself. It's up to you to decide what that next chapter looks like, and make it great. Continue to live. Live the dream because all of our friends who didn't make it home don't have the opportunity to live anymore, so we have to live double, triple, or quadruple for them.\r\nAfter serving our country, Jespersen moved to Colorado and became a world record holder, a mountain guide, a professional athlete, and a strong advocate for veterans in the outdoors. Jespersen is president of theVeteran's Outdoor Advocacy Group, which he founded in 2019. The nonprofit organization researches, advocates, and promotes legislative solutions to enable outdoor therapy access for veterans.\r\nFor more information about the services provided by Bennet's officeincluding assistance with a federal agency, such as the Department of Defense or Department of Veterans Affairs, inquiries about medals, and other veterans' resourcesplease visitbennet.senate.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=285E6B94-E915-4424-AE6F-4CBD52E452CF", "Bennet Statement on Oral Arguments in Lawsuit to Eliminate the Affordable Care Act", "2020-11-10", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today,Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statementahead of the U.S. Supreme Court hearing oral argumentsinCalifornia v. Texas,the Republican-backed attempt to strike down the landmark health care law that protects over two million Coloradans with pre-existing conditions:\r\nInstead of building on the Affordable Care Act  which is what I hear people in Colorado say they want every single day  Republicans in Washington have spent the last ten years working to sabotage it. This case is the latest installment in their decade-long project to rip health care away from millions of Americans and return us to the days when insurance companies went unchecked and could exclude people with pre-existing conditions.\r\nThe last thing we should do in the middle of a global pandemic is blow up our health care system. Instead, we should focus on passing another relief package to fight this public health crisis and achieve universal health care with a public option.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=EB371539-B595-45DF-841C-E979338B6477", "Bennet Welcomes Senate Hearing on Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy Act", "2020-11-10", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources (ENR) Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining will hold a hearing on theColorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy (CORE) Act,Bennet's bill to protect over 400,000 acres of public land in Colorado and boost the state's outdoor economy.The hearing is scheduled forNovember 18th, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. ET.\r\nColoradans know that protecting our public lands and strengthening our economy go hand in hand. That's why, after a decade of hard work and careful negotiation by local leaders to design the new protections in the bill, I introduced the CORE Act,said Bennet.I'm glad that the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee will finally hold a hearing on this bill. The CORE Act has already passed the House twice and we'll continue our work in the Senate to pass the bill into law.\r\nEagle County is pleased that theCOREActwill finally have a hearing in the Senate. Our public lands define the American spirit, and continue to be a place where people go to gain strength and resiliency.TheCOREActwill designate Camp Hale as a National Historic Landscape and preserve important wildlife habitat prized by local hunters and anglers. We arehopeful that the locally-supportedCOREActpasses the U.S. Senate so current and future generations can always have a place to go for reflection, growth, and adventure. Kathy Chandler-Henry, Eagle CountyCommissioner\r\nGunnison County has worked for years on theCurecanti and Thompson Divide elements of the CORE Act. We have long awaited a hearing in the Senate and are encouraged to hear the time has come. We have fought long and hard for the CORE Act because our constituents believe it is these sensible public lands protections that are vital to our economy, our values and the enduring opportunity these lands will provide for future generations. Jonathan D. Houck, Gunnison County Commissioner\r\nLasting change takes time. The CORE Act is preserving lands, communities and our cultural heritage and will enact lasting benefits for future generations. I want to thank our leaders including Senator Bennet and Congressman Neguse who have had the diligence and patience to see this to the finish line. A Senate Committeehearing is a welcome positive step forward.Hilary Cooper, San Miguel County Commissioner\r\nBackground\r\nIn 2019, Bennet and Neguse introduced the bicameral CORE Act in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives with thesupportof counties, cities, towns, local leaders, conservation groups, sportsmen, and a wide range of outdoor businesses. The CORE Act combines four Colorado public lands proposals that were developed over a decade and builds on longstanding efforts to protect public lands in Colorado by establishing newwilderness, recreation, and conservation areas, including the first-ever National Historic Landscape at Camp Hale. \r\nThe CORE Act quicklygained momentum in the House, with a House Natural Resources Committeehearingin April 2019, and later passed out of committee inJune 2019. Thebillpassedthe full House of Representatives in October 2019 with bipartisan support,and againpassedtheHousein July as an amendment to the House version of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In September, Bennet, Neguse, and Colorado U.S. Representative Jason Crow, a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, convened a group of public lands leaders, veterans, and local elected officials at the Divide Trail in Colorado toadvocatefor the COREAct's inclusionin the FY 2021 NDAA.In October, Bennet and Neguseurgedthe leaders of the U.S. House and Senate Armed Services Committees to include the CORE Act in the final FY 2021 NDAA.\r\nIn August, Bennet and hunters and anglers from across the statehighlightedvictories in the CORE Act for hunting, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts in the Gunnison River Basin. The groups also released ananalysisexplaining exactly what the CORE Act secures for hunters and anglersincluding miles of blue-ribbon trout stream and elk habitatand reaffirmed their support for the public lands bill.\r\nBennet has sought every opportunity to pass the bill in the Senate. In addition to his efforts to include the CORE Act in the final NDAA, in June, Bennet introduced the CORE Act as an amendment to the Great American Outdoors Act, which also included long-standingBennet prioritiesto fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and invest in our public land management agencies. InFebruary 2019,Bennet urged the Senate to include the CORE Act in the John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, which permanently reauthorized LWCF and included new protections for millions of acres of public land in other states across the West.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-jason-crow-statement-election-president-elect-joe-biden", "Rep. Jason Crow Statement on Election of President-Elect Joe Biden", "2020-11-07", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) issued the following statement:\nCongratulations to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris! America made clear who we are as a nation.\nIn electing Joe Biden, a man whose compassion and kindness has defined his service, America made clear who we want to be. The son of Scranton is a man whose life has been defined by struggle, like so many of us. And our nation's first woman Vice-President, a daughter of immigrants, embodies the hopes and aspirations of our nation.\nWe now have the opportunity to come together as a nation to tackle our collective challenges. Make no mistake, there are still tough times and hard work ahead, but I know Joe and Kamala will unite us and help us build back stronger.\nThe story of America has always been a story of struggle between competing ideas, traditions, and politics. But out of that competition and struggle we have found a way to move forward.\nI often think back to my time in the Army. The soldiers I served with looked like America. Different backgrounds, races, faiths, and politics. We drew strength from that diversity and found a way to come together to accomplish our mission, and come home together. That is what we must now do.\nTomorrow the sun will rise on America like it always does. But it will be different. It will be the dawn of a new day for our nation.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=8739A546-2FC2-4C6E-BEE9-F5E8C25D605F", "Bennet Looks Forward to Working with Biden-Harris Administration to Set Aside Partisan Politics, Make Equality and Prosperity Our Shared Purpose", "2020-11-07", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement congratulating President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on their historic victory:\r\nCongratulations to President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris. \r\nMore citizens voted in this election than ever before. The election was hard fought and fairly won. With your victory comes the promise that, as a country, we can set aside years of partisan acrimony and get to the hard work of making equality and prosperity our shared purpose.\r\nI look forward to joining you in this effort.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/crow-statement-record-voter-turnout-2020-election", "Crow Statement on Record Voter Turnout in 2020 Election", "2020-11-03", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Ahead of the results of the 2020 election, below please find a statement from Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) on the record voter turnout and protecting the democratic process.\nPresident Trump sought to discredit our elections, but despite that - or in spite of it - Americans have turned out in record numbers. This is our democracy at work and we must never take it for granted.\n2020 is not a typical year, and it's not going to be a typical election night, either. Because of the pandemic and record turnout, we may not know every result right away  it might take some time and a little extra patience. But make no mistake, while this year is different, our basic voting process remains the same. President Trump may try to call the election for himself before the night is over but we live in a democracy, not an autocracy.\nThe power belongs to the people. As we await tonight's results, we must protect the process and make sure that every American's voice is heard, no matter where they live or who they support. That is the promise of our democracy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-neguses-statement-on-president-trumps-remarks-about-egypt-blowing-up-gerd", "Congressman Neguse's Statement on President Trump's Remarks about Egypt 'Blowing Up' GERD", "2020-11-02", "2020", "2020-11", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 02, 2020\n\t\t\t Congressman Neguse's Statement on President Trump's Remarks about Egypt 'Blowing Up' GERD \n\t\t\tWashington D.C.  Following President Donald Trump's remarks concerning Egypt blowing up the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project, Congressman Neguse has this statement:\r\n\r\nI strongly oppose the President's latest remarks about the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project. The suggestion that Egypt would blow up the GERD is an irrational call for violencein a region where we know peace cannot be taken for granted.These remarks, along with the pullback of $100million in aid to Ethiopia from the U.S.,unnecessarily harms a country where both aid and investment is needed. The Congressional Black Caucus has repeatedly suggested that the President stay neutral in these negotiations,and I would strongly reiterate that request. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-legislation-reform-us-olympic-committees-signed-law", "DeGette legislation to reform U.S. Olympic Committees signed into law", "2020-10-31", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 A key piece of legislation, originally introduced in the House by U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), to reform how the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committees operate was signed into law last night.\n\nThe legislation calls for the creation of an independent, blue-ribbon commission to study \u2013 and eventually help reform \u2013 how committees operate in the wake of several high-profile sexual-abuse scandals that had raised doubts about the organization's ability to care for our nation's top athletes.\n\nUnder the terms of the newly enacted reform bill, leaders in Congress will soon be required to appoint 16 members to serve on an independent panel that will be tasked with studying and recommending specific changes that Congress should make to improve how the nation's top sports bodies are being run.\n\nA key provision in the law that was championed by DeGette requires that at least eight of the commission members be either former or current Olympic or Paralympic athletes.\n\n\"Our nation's Olympians dedicate their lives to representing our country on the world stage,\" DeGette said. \"Today, we are taking steps to ensure the organization created to care for them is doing exactly that.\"\n\nOnce established, the independent commission will have nine months to report their findings and recommendations on how to improve the USOPC back to Congress.\n\nAmong the issues the commission will be asked to evaluate are: how responsive the national governing bodies for each Olympic sport are to its athletes and how athletes can be better represented in the system.\n\nIt will also be asked to review the diversity of the USOPC's board, its finances and whether it's effectively achieving its stated goals.\n\nSince the allegations against former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar first came to light, dozens of former Olympic athletes and USOPC officials have called on Congress to act to reform how our nation's Olympic committees operate. Those calls grew even louder after investigators revealed that some USOPC officials knew about the alleged abuse but did nothing to stop it.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:34:36Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-legislation-to-reform-us-olympic-committees-signed-into-law", "DeGette legislation to reform U.S. Olympic Committees signed into law", "2020-10-31", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. A key piece of legislation, originally introduced in the House by U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), to reform how the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committees operate was signed into law last night.\nThe legislation calls for the creation of an independent, blue-ribbon commission to study  and eventually help reform  how committees operate in the wake of several high-profile sexual-abuse scandals that had raised doubts about the organization's ability to care for our nation's top athletes.\nUnder the terms of the newly enacted reform bill, leaders in Congress will soon be required to appoint 16 members to serve on an independent panel that will be tasked with studying and recommending specific changes that Congress should make to improve how the nation's top sports bodies are being run.\nA key provision in the law that was championed by DeGette requires that at least eight of the commission members be either former or current Olympic or Paralympic athletes.\nOur nation's Olympians dedicate their lives to representing our country on the world stage, DeGette said. Today, we are taking steps to ensure the organization created to care for them is doing exactly that.\nOnce established, the independent commission will have nine months to report their findings and recommendations on how to improve the USOPC back to Congress.\nAmong the issues the commission will be asked to evaluate are: how responsive the national governing bodies for each Olympic sport are to its athletes and how athletes can be better represented in the system.\nIt will also be asked to review the diversity of the USOPC's board, its finances and whether it's effectively achieving its stated goals.\nSince the allegations against former USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar first came to light, dozens of former Olympic athletes and USOPC officials have called on Congress to act to reform how our nation's Olympic committees operate. Those calls grew even louder after investigators revealed that some USOPC officials knew about the alleged abuse but did nothing to stop it.\nA copy of the legislation signed into law is availablehere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-neguse-leads-congressional-letter-to-departments-of-agriculture-and-interior-to-strengthen-federal-wildland-fire-worforce", "Representative Neguse Leads Congressional Letter to Departments of Agriculture and Interior to Strengthen Federal Wildland Fire Worforce", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "October 30, 2020\n\t\t\t Representative Neguse Leads Congressional Letter to Departments of Agriculture and Interior to Strengthen Federal Wildland Fire Worforce \n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Yesterday, Congressman Joe Neguse, who represents Colorado's Second Congressional District, led a letter alongside several of his Colorado colleagues to Secretary of Interior David Bernhardt and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue requesting several reforms to improve pay, job stability, and benefits for federal wildfire personnel. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Representatives Ed Perlmutter (D-CO), Jason Crow (D-CO), and Diana DeGette (D-CO) also signed the letter, which requests that the Secretaries work with the Office of Personnel Management to review and increase the pay scale for wildland firefighters, increase the entry-level pay of new hires, reclassify seasonal federal firefighter positions as permanent, waive annual salary cap restrictions for personnel working overtime, provide additional paid leave, and expand mental health services.\r\nAs the wildfire season grows longer and more intense, support for wildland fire workforce must be stronger, said Congressman Neguse. These brave men and women deserve better pay, full-time employment, and support that matches the immense toll of their job. Improving the benefits offered to our federal wildfire personnel is critical for ensuring that we recruit and retain the workforce we rely on. Improving these benefits for federal employees is just a start. I am committed to improving how the federal government supports our state and local crews as well. The wildland fire workforce is comprised of a diverse group of local, state, federal, and tribal fire fighters that sacrifice so much to keep our communities safe. I remain dedicated to supporting them in whatever way we can.\r\nWildland firefighters are facingdangerous and grueling conditions as they continue to fight wildfires across Colorado and the West,said Bennet.They deserve better pay and benefits.\r\nThe letter can be found here.\r\nOver the past several months, the Second Congressional District has experienced five fires, two of which are now the largest and second largest wildfires in Colorado history. In Larimer County, the Cameron Peak fire is now the largest fire in state history, having currently burned 205,004 acres. Boulder County is also dealing with the Calwood Fire, having burned 9,106 acres, and previously the Lefthand Canyon Fire (which is now fully contained). And Grand County is fighting both the East Troublesome Fire, 12,655 acres, and the William Forks Fire, 14,645 acres.\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=19BC5F3D-7F3D-4520-A5A1-7A6A1EEAC42B", "Bennet Presses Administration on Consequences of Banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Trainings at Federal Agencies", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Winter Park Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette, and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler expressing significant concern with theimmediate and secondary effects of implementing a White House Executive Order and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo prohibiting federaldepartments and agencies from using federal funds to administer training sessions that incorporate teachings about critical race theory and white privilege.\r\nTraining sessions on diversity, equity, and inclusion are important in bringing forward the voices of underrepresented individuals. Rather than stoking divisiveness, diversity training sessions seek to inform how the world affects those of different races,wrote Bennet in the letter.Public servants require an understanding of the unique experiences of our nation's individuals to adequately serve the public. Furthermore, exploration of the advantages of certain races in social, political, and economic areas can help create a more equitable and effective work environment.\r\nBennet pressed the administration on the vague and misleading phrasing of theWhite Housedirectives,noting they have reportedly led tothe cancelation or termination of programs and trainings that address diversity, equity, and inclusion in much broader terms than thosedetailedin the executive order and the OMB memo. Bennet also lamented the vague language in the directives that has caused confusion over whether or not outside companies that contract with government agencies will be forced to comply with the directives.\r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Secretary Esper, Secretary Brouillette, and Administrator Wheeler:\r\nI write to express significant concern with the effects of implementing the White House Executive Order issued on September 22, 2020, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo issued on September 4, 2020 prohibiting Executive Branch entities from using federal funds to administer training sessions that incorporate teachings about critical race theory and white privilege.\r\nIn the United States, race is still an indicator of an individual's success. Training sessions on diversity, equity, and inclusion are important in bringing forward the voices of underrepresented individuals. Rather than stoking divisiveness, diversity training sessions seek to inform how the world affects those of different races. Public servants require an understanding of the unique experiences of our nation's individuals to adequately serve the public. Furthermore, exploration of the advantages of certain races in social, political, and economic areas can help create a more equitable and effective work environment.\r\nI am also concerned that agencies and departments are broadly discontinuing training sessions on diversity and inclusion in fear of violation of the directive. For example, it was reported that one of the U.S. military academies canceled a scheduled virtual screening and discussion of the filmMalcolm Xhosted byArts in the Armed Forcesout of fear that the event was at odds with the executive order.[1]The Department of Energy has stated they will conductan expedited enterprise wide review of diversity and inclusion workshops.[2]The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reportedly cancelled part of its speaker series on environmental justice. Furthermore, it is unclear whether companies that contract with government agencies are also being forced to comply with the directive. It is apparent that the vague and misleading phrasing of the directive may result or may have already resulted in the termination of programs that cover diversity, equity, and inclusion in much broader terms than those detailed in the directive.\r\nI ask that you respond to the following questions:\r\n \r\nIn response to the September 4th OMB Directive and the September 22nd Executive Order, has your department paused or cancelled any training sessions on diversity, equity, and/or inclusion (DEI)?\r\nHas the White House or the Office of Personnel Management asked your department to provide them with copies of any materials related to any training sessions on diversity, equity, and/or inclusion since the September 4th OMB Directive. If so, what?\r\nPlease provide any incidences where training or any other events have been cancelled. Please note where the cancelled events are beyond those that specifically mention the phrases named in the OMB directive.\r\nWhat instructions has your agency given to contractor organizations?\r\nFor the Department of Energy, what has been communicated to the national labs including the contracted employees there?\r\n \r\nThank you for your urgent attention to this matter.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=2ADFA673-648E-4C46-829C-CEEF6B9DE703", "Bennet, Neguse, Members of Colorado Congressional Delegation Urge Department of Agriculture, Interior to Strengthen Federal Wildland Fire Workforce", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver  Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and Colorado U.S. Representatives Joe Neguse (D), Ed Perlmutter (D), Jason Crow (D), and Diana DeGette (D) wrote a letter to Secretary of Interior David Bernhardt and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue requesting several reforms to improve pay, job stability, and benefits for federal wildfire personnel. The letter requests that the Secretaries work with the Office of Personnel Management to review and increase the pay scale for wildland firefighters, increase the entry-level pay of new hires, reclassify seasonal federal firefighter positions as permanent, waive annual salary cap restrictions for personnel working overtime, provide additional paid leave, and expand mental health services.\r\nWildland firefighters are facingdangerous and grueling conditions as they continue to fight wildfires across Colorado and the West,said Bennet.They deserve better pay and benefits.\r\nAs the wildfire season grows longer and more intense, support for wildland fire workforce must be stronger, said Neguse. These brave men and women deserve better pay, full-time employment, and support that matches the immense toll of their job. Improving the benefits offered to our federal wildfire personnel is critical for ensuring that we recruit and retain the workforce we rely on. Improving these benefits for federal employees is just a start. I am committed to improving how the federal government supports our state and local crews as well. The wildland fire workforce is comprised of a diverse group of local, state, federal, and tribal fire fighters that sacrifice so much to keep our communities safe. I remain dedicated to supporting them in whatever way we can.\r\nThe text of the letter is available HERE.\r\nIn Larimer County, the Cameron Peak fire is now the largest fire in state history, having currently burned 205,004 acres. Boulder County is also dealing with the Calwood Fire, having burned 9,106 acres, and previously the Lefthand Canyon Fire (which is now fully contained). Grand County is fighting both the East Troublesome Fire, 12,655 acres, and the William Forks Fire, 14,645 acres.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1AB86131-7DE0-4FD3-9A1F-21785C221278", "Bennet, Cohen Urge Armed Services Committee Leadership to Include GAO Study of School-To-Prison Pipeline in Final Defense Authorization Act", "2020-10-29", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Today, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and U.S. Representative Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) urged the leaders of the U.S. House and Senate Armed Services Committees to include their amendment to direct the Comptroller General to conduct a study on the school-to-prison pipeline in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The studywhich would look at the effectiveness of evidence-based interventions, such as restorative practicespassed the House as anamendmentto the NDAA in July. Both armed services committees are currently negotiating a final version of the bill to be considered by both chambers of Congress before heading to the president's desk.\r\nThe school-to-prison pipelinefunnelsstudentsespecially those who already face barriers to education, such as students of color and students with disabilitiesout of schools and toward the juvenile and criminal justice systems, denying them an education and limiting their future employment opportunities.\r\nZero tolerance policies coupled with chronically underfunded schools, persistent school segregation, racial discrimination, and the increased use of surveillance and police officers have created negative learning environments in our schools,wrote Bennet and Cohen in a letter to the chairmen and ranking members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees.\r\nCongress can disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline,continued Bennet and Cohen.A Government Accountability Office study on the school-to-prison pipeline will help highlight the extent of the issue and provide states with data on how evidence-based interventions can be more effective, improve student achievement, and enhance student well-being and public safety. We encourage you to use this opportunity in the FY21 NDAA to help stop the school-to-prison pipeline and preserve students' opportunities to learn.\r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Chairs Inhofe and Smith and Ranking Members Reed and Thornberry:\r\nAs you work to finalize the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), we write to request that you include our amendment to direct the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study on the school-to-prison pipeline.\r\nIn pushing students out of schools and toward the juvenile and criminal justice systems, the school-to-prison pipeline denies students an education, limits future employment opportunities, and creates significant challenges to full participation in society. These costs fall disproportionately on students who already face barriers to education such as students of color and students with disabilities. In particular, Black students represent 31% of all school-related arrests and are three-times more likely to be suspended and expelled compared to white students.\r\nUnfortunately, the school-to-prison pipeline is the direct consequence of specific trends in our education systems. When schools adopted zero tolerance policies that required certain responses to behaviors, minor and often subjective transgressions like tardiness or willful defiance, became grounds to suspend or expel a student. Zero tolerance policies coupled with chronically underfunded schools, persistent school segregation, racial discrimination, and the increased use of surveillance and police officers have created negative learning environments in our schools.\r\nCongress can disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline. If enacted, this amendment can help raise awareness and improve our approach to school safety and student wellbeing through evidence-based interventions such as restorative practices.A Government Accountability Office study on the school-to-prison pipeline will help highlight the extent of the issue and provide states with data on how evidence-based interventions can be more effective, improve student achievement, and enhance student well-being and public safety.We encourage you to use this opportunity in the FY21 NDAA to help stop the school-to-prison pipeline and preserve students' opportunities to learn.\r\nThank you for your consideration of this request.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=59AD6029-AFB8-4808-AD36-0DDCD1C38DBA", "Bennet Announces $6 Million ReConnect Grant to Expand Broadband in Northwest Colorado", "2020-10-29", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Estes Park Today, Colorado U.S. SenatorMichael Bennet, a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is awarding $6 million to Yampa Valley Electric Association (YVEA) to expand broadband service in Northwest Colorado. In April, Bennet wrote aletterto USDA in support of YVEA's application for funding from the ReConnect Program.\r\nUSDA will provide funding to YVEA through itsReConnect Program to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network that will connect 553 people, 27 farms, 27 businesses, and three post offices to high-speed broadband in Moffat, Rio Blanco, Routt, Grand, and Eagle counties.\r\nThis grant is a testament to Yampa Valley ElectricAssociation's terrific work for Northwest Colorado, and I was glad to support their application and to increase funding for USDA's ReConnect program as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee,said Bennet.The pandemic has underscored the profound cost of the digital divide, and we can't rest until every Coloradan has access to affordable, high-speed broadband no matter where they live.\r\nAs the County Commissioner representing South Routt County, I cannot tell you how excited and gratified I am to see the USDA and YVEA partner on this project that will at long last extend fiber optic broadband capacity to this underserved part of our community. It is impossible to overstate the benefits to our schools, medical providers, businesses, and citizens.Senator Bennet has long recognized the importance of broadband to our rural communities and has led initiatives, including the BRIDGE Act, to address this criticalneed. Tim Corrigan, Routt County Commissioner\r\nYVEA has been a great partner to work with over the years on several projects in Moffat County. This project will provide the residents of Hamilton and Maybell access to affordable, high-speed internet and will be a game changer for those communities. RayBeck, Moffat County Commissioner\r\nEagle County is excited about the Re-Connect grant for our regionfrom USDA Rural Development. Reliable and affordable high-speed internet connectivity is fundamental for our economy, our schools, and our connection with the world.Especially during these times of distancing, and remote work, health care and schooling, this e-connectivity is vital to keep rural Colorado on a level playing field with the rest of the country. Modern broadband capability is a catalyst for rural prosperity through efficient, modern communication between rural American households and schools, markets and health care centers. Areas with smaller populations have found it difficult over the years to attract high-speed internet companies and services; the support of USDA Rural Development is vital to our economic and social well-being. Kathy Chandler-Henry, Eagle County Commissioner\r\nUSDA's ReConnect Loan and Grant Programlaunched in 2018 as a pilot program to expand broadband service to primarily unserved rural areas. Bennet helped toincrease fundingfor the ReConnect Program in the 2018 Farm Bill.\r\nThis year, Bennet has taken several actions to expand broadband deployment and help close the digital divide:\r\n \r\nIn June, Bennet introduced theBRIDGE Act of 2020to provide $30 billion in flexible funding to States and $1 billion to Tribal Governments to deploy affordable, high-speed broadband in unserved and underserved communities nationwide, provided new networks meet minimum requirements for speed and affordability.\r\nIn May, Bennet introduced theEmergency Educational Connections Actto help students access mobile hotspots and Wi-Fi enabled devices duringthe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.\r\nIn April, Bennetcalled on the Federal Communications Commission(FCC) to coordinate with other federal agencies to ensure that the millions of Americans newly eligible for SNAP or Medicaid due tothe pandemic are also informed of their eligibility for the Lifeline program, which offers discounted internet access for low-income Americans.\r\nIn March, Bennet alsowrote to the FCCto ensure Americans are not disconnected from the Lifeline program during the crisis andcalled onthe country's top internet companies to keep families connected and to waive data caps and overage fees until the pandemic has ended.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neguse.house.gov/media/press-releases/members-of-congress-ask-geo-ceo-to-clarify-testimony-on-forced-labor-allegations", "Members of Congress Ask GEO CEO to Clarify Testimony on Forced Labor Allegations", "2020-10-28", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Joe Neguse", "N000191", "neguse.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "October 28, 2020\n\t\t\t Members of Congress Ask GEO CEO to Clarify Testimony on Forced Labor Allegations \n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.Today, Congressman Joe Neguse led a letter with Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie G. Thompson, Border Security, Facilitation, and Operations Subcommittee Chairwoman Kathleen Rice, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, Congressman Jason Crow, and Congressman Ed Perlmutter, to George Zoley, Chief Executive Officer of The GEO Group, Inc., requesting that he clarify his testimony before the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Border Security, Facilitation, and Operations at a July 13, 2020 oversight hearing examining U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) contractors' response to COVID-19.\r\nDuring the hearing, Representative Joe Neguse (CO-2) asked the following: Has GEO ever coerced immigration detainees into volunteering to perform work by threatening or imposing disciplinary segregation, administrative segregation, or solitary confinement or any other kind of sanction? And Mr. Zoley's response was Absolutely not.\r\nThat testimony appears to contradictrecent statements filed in Menocal v. The Geo Group, Inc., as well as recently unsealed documents supporting allegations of the use of solitary confinement to coerce participation in voluntary work programs at immigration detention facilities managed by the GEO Group. The documents include reports that appear to show detainees at the Aurora ICE facility being placed in solitary confinement for refusing to clean common areas, which would be a violation of ICE's Performance-Based National Detention Standards.\r\nThe documents appear to show evidence that GEO sent immigrant detainees to solitary confinement for refusing to work, in contravention of ICE's own policies and the Company'stestimony, said Congressman Neguse. American taxpayers deserve transparency from witnesses testifying before Congress, Congressman Neguse added.\r\nRead a copy of the letter here. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=5060A981-0ED2-49A4-BDC8-C735F76A33FF", "Following Letter from Bennet, Colleagues, HHS Expands Relief for Rural Health Care Providers", "2020-10-28", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver  Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced that following a letter he and his colleagues sent earlier this month to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar, the Trump Administration has expanded relief eligibility for rural health care providers and updated requirements to preserve providers' access to funding from the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) created as a response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.\r\nRural health care providers across the state have been working around the clock to support their communities during this crisis on shrinking budgets, said Bennet. I'm glad to see this expanded relief eligibility for rural health care providers so they can access the support they need. We'll keep working to sustain these providers for the long haul so that they can continue to serve their communities through and beyond this pandemic.\r\nHHS is allowing more flexibility for providers in using PRF proceeds so that they can continue to respond to all of the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. This will help to protect patients' access to care and prevent providers  especially rural hospitals and hospitals that serve high-numbers of low-income, elderly, and severely ill patients  from being forced to return PRF funds that they have already received.\r\nHHS released initial reporting requirements in June for providers receiving PRF funds that directed these entities to define lost revenue as any revenue that you as a health care provider lost due to coronavirus, but HHS released updated reporting requirements on September 19 that directed providers to instead use changes in their net operating income to calculate lost revenue  a substantial change from the initial June guidance that was expected to reduce the amount of lost revenues that providers are able to report. That shift in reporting requirements would have changed the terms of the relief as hospitals and health systems initially understood them and likely created further uncertainty for providers at a time when they are already facing serious financial challenges.\r\nBennet has continued to call for investments in rural health care providers during the pandemic. In May, Bennet introduced legislation to reduce interest rates and modify repayment obligations for health care providers who have sought financial assistance through Medicare's Accelerated and Advance Payments Program amid COVID-19which was expanded under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.This provision was signed into lawin September. In May, Bennet introduced legislation to extend the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program for an additional five years, ensuring these essential hospitals do not face further budget instability during such challenging times. In April, Bennet joined members of the Colorado Congressional Delegation in calling for the Small Business Administrationto provide regulatory certainty and ensure that Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) are eligible for certain CARESAct assistance, particularly through the Paycheck Protection Program. In March, Bennet introduced the Immediate Relief for Rural Facilities and Providers Act, legislation to address the impending crisis facing our health care system as the spread of the COVID-19 increasingly strains hospitals and providers across the country.\r\nIn addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Doug Jones (D-Ala.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Angus King (I-Maine), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Tom Carper (D-Del.).\r\nThe text of the October 9 letter is available HERE and below.\r\nDear Secretary Azar:\r\nWe write to express our concerns regarding the recent change in reporting requirements for health care providers that have received emergency relief through the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) and to respectfully request that you reinstate the original reporting requirements for determining lost revenue that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) first released in June of this year.\r\nAs you know, the CARES Act established the PRF to reimburse health care providers for health care-related expenses or lost revenue due to the coronavirus pandemic. The PRF has been critical in helping hospitals and health care systems across the country navigate the serious financial challenges posed by this pandemic, preventing many providers from being forced to permanently close their doors.\r\nAs a condition for receiving PRF funds, the CARES Act required these recipients to submit reports and maintain documentation to certify their compliance with program requirements. In June, HHS released initial guidance outlining some of these reporting requirements and directed providers to calculate lost revenue by comparing actual 2020 revenue with budgeted 2020 revenue or with 2019 revenue. On September 19, HHS released updated reporting requirements that directed providers to use net operating income to calculate lost revenuea substantial change from the directions issued in June.\r\nWe have heard from hospitals and health systems in our states who are concerned that this change in the definition of lost revenue will force them to return funds to HHS that they have received from the PRF. In particular, rural hospitals and those that serve high numbers of low-income, elderly, and severely ill patientswhich already operate on thin financial marginsmay be especially impacted by this change.\r\nWe are concerned that this change in reporting requirements changes the terms of the relief as providers initially understood them based on the initial June guidelinesfurther exacerbating the financial challenges and uncertainty that these systems continue to grapple with as a result of the pandemic. Therefore, we respectfully request that you reinstate the original June requirements for determining lost revenue in order to prevent unnecessary financial uncertainty for hospitals and health care providers and to prevent them from being forced to return PRF funds that they have already received.\r\nThank you for your time and attention to this important measure. We look forward to working with you to continue supporting our hospitals and ensuring that this pandemic does not cause further, long-term disruptions to Americans' access to care.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=CA459DB7-AB13-4CE3-968B-14405FE55E68", "Bennet, Colleagues Urge State Department to Bolster Efforts to Protect Journalists", "2020-10-27", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Denver Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined nine of his Senate colleagues to urge Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to increase the Trump Administration's efforts to protect journalists around the world and hold foreign leaders accountable for suppressing freedom of the press.\r\nThe letter marks the recent anniversary of the 2018 killing of Jamal Khashoggi. It is widely believed that Khashoggi, a Washington Post journalist and resident of the United States, was murdered in Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul under orders from the Saudi government because of his writings in opposition to Saudi government policies.\r\nRecently, we marked the somber anniversary of the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was brutally killed by agents of the Saudi government at its Consulate in Istanbul for openly criticizing that country's leadership,wrote Bennet and the senators.\r\nThey continued:Two years later, we have yet to see evidence that the State Department recognizes the fundamental importance of a free press. Just last month, the State Department Inspector General reported that the Administration revoked the Department's prestigious International Women of Courage Award to Jessikka Aro, a Finnish investigative journalist who faced death threats and harassment over her work exposing Russian propaganda efforts, because she authored social media posts critical of President Trump.\r\nThe United States is stronger and safer when our values  including defense of a free press  are protected at home and advanced as a central component of our foreign policy. We must make it clear that it is unacceptable to suppress, imprison, and violently target the press and that the United States will hold foreign governments who attempt to do so accountable.\r\nIn his time in the Senate, Bennet has strongly defended the free and independent press in the U.S. and around the world. In September, Bennetintroducedlegislation to convene experts from across the country to study the state of local journalism and offer recommendations to Congress to support local news while preserving its freedom and independence. In February, Bennet wroteto Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg demanding the company do more to protect journalists across the globe from attacks on its platforms.\r\nIn addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).\r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Secretary Pompeo:\r\nWe write to urge the State Department to increase its efforts to protect journalists around the world and hold accountable foreign leaders who seek to suppress the freedom of the press.\r\nRecently, we marked the somber anniversary of the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was brutally killed by agents of the Saudi government at its Consulate in Istanbul for openly criticizing that country's leadership. People across America were rightly appalled by the murder of Mr. Khashoggi  a U.S. resident and respected journalist  and the Saudi government's shifting explanations, inadequate cooperation with investigations, and use of authoritarian tactics to silence its critics. Further, our President repeatedly dismissed his own intelligence community's assessment. This response was not only unacceptableit was also at odds with our values as a country.\r\nTwo years later, we have yet to see evidence that the State Department recognizes the fundamental importance of a free press. Just last month, the State Department Inspector General reported that the Administration revoked the Department's prestigious International Women of Courage Award to Jessikka Aro, a Finnish investigative journalist who faced death threats and harassment over her work exposing Russian propaganda efforts, because she authored social media posts critical of President Trump. Of particular concern is the State Department's role in initially misleading Congress and the public about the reasons for revoking Ms. Aro's award.\r\nIn recent years, countless journalists around the world have been threatened, imprisoned, beaten and even killed as they attempt to report the truth and hold their governments more accountable. On the anniversary of Mr. Khashoggi's murder, we pay special tribute to those brave journalists whose dogged pursuit of the truth never wavered in the face of these threats. Their legacy is proof that fear will not silence facts.\r\nThe United States is stronger and safer when our values  including defense of a free press  are protected at home and advanced as a central component of our foreign policy. We must make it clear that it is unacceptable to suppress, imprison, and violently target the press and that the United States will hold foreign governments who attempt to do so accountable.\r\nAccordingly, we request answers to the following questions on what steps the State Department is taking to protect journalists at home and abroad:\r\n \r\nSince the Administration sanctioned some of the people involved in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi in November 2018, what additional steps has the Administration taken to hold accountable the Saudi leaders believed to have ordered his killing?\r\nWhy did the State Department misrepresent its reasons for revoking the International Women of Courage award for Finnish journalist Jessikka Aro and what action have you taken as a result?\r\nWhat role does protecting press freedoms abroad play in the Department's efforts to counter foreign disinformation targeting Americans?\r\nWhat is the Department doing to stop foreign governments from using the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic as an excuse for enacting emergency laws to restrict the press, limit public access to information, and suppress free speech?\r\n \r\nWe look forward to your response and to working with you to address this critical issue.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=D0F0E65F-D924-4B4B-A94F-CE92FF2C282A", "Bennet, 30 Senate Colleagues Urge VA to Follow Through on Promises to End Veteran Suicide Epidemic", "2020-10-27", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.)and29 Senate colleaguesin a push for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to follow through on authorities under President Donald Trump'sExecutive Orderto increase veterans' access to mental health care.\r\nThesenators also urged theadministration to aggressively implement critical provisions and new authorities under the law to provide more veterans with the mental health resources they need and earned.\r\nMore than 6,000 veterans die by suicide annually, and each loss of life is immeasurable,wrote Bennet andthe senators in a letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie.Congress has done its part by providing consistent and robust resources for VA's mental health budget and developing and passing comprehensive veterans' mental health care legislation, most recently theCommander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act. Hopefully the issuance of EO 13822 was more than a hollow press opportunity by the Administration, and we can expect it to do right by our nation's military and veterans by fully implementing the EO and all laws passed by Congress focused on mental health and suicide prevention.\r\nIn parallel with Congress' effort to end the veteran suicide epidemic, President Donald Trump signed EO 13822 on January 9, 2018, promising to make significant changes to improve the transition experience and connect servicemembers to mental health resources. Howeveralmost three years after the EO was signedVA failed to complete critical authorities under this order.\r\nThesenators continued:At the EO signing, Secretary Shulkin stated this expanded mental health care benefit would be available by March 9, 2018. However, almost three years later, the Department has not increased access to mental health care, leaving up to 60 percent of newly transitioned servicemembers without access to life-saving care. Also troubling, the Joint Action Plan for implementing EO 13822 contains no references or commitments to providing transitioning servicemembers with this one year of mental health care. When can veterans expect to receive access to the essential mental health care promised to them by the Trump Administration?\r\nBennet haslongfought for expanding access to and increasing funding for suicide prevention resources. Last week, Bennetintroducedthe Suicide and Crisis Outreach Prevention Enhancement Act, which would increase funding for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) program from $7.2 million to $20 million per year, provide greater flexibility for participants to raise awareness of the services they offer, and collect vital statistics to help understand and reduce disparities. Bennetalsocosponsored the bipartisanNational Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which was signed into law on October 17,2020. It designates 9-8-8 as the three-digit numberfor the NSPL. In May2020, Benneturgedthe VA to develop and implement comprehensive mental health care plans to ensure veterans' well-being during and afterthe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.InOctober2019, Benneturgedthe VA to aggressively increase its efforts to connect veterans across the country with critical metal health care.\r\nThe text of the letter is availableHEREand below.\r\nDear Secretary Wilkie,\r\nThe signage of S. 785, the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, into law is an important step in addressing veterans' mental health and preventing suicide. We were proud to write and pass this law, with Chairman Jerry Moran and colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives, to honor the legacy of a former Navy SEAL and Montanan who lost his life to the invisible wounds of war. On the heels of its signage, as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) takes action to implement its critical provisions and new authorities, VA must in parallel take a more aggressive, all-hands-on-deck approach towards getting veterans the mental health resources they need and ending the veteran suicide epidemic.\r\nVeterans are at the highest risk for suicide during the first 12 months of their separation from the military. On January 9, 2018, the President signed Executive Order (EO) 13822 entitled Supporting our Veterans During Their Transition from Uniformed Service to Civilian Life. The Trump Administration made significant promises to improve the transition experience and connect servicemembers to mental health resources. However, almost three years after the EO was signed, VA has not made meaningful progress towards improving mental health care access and preventing veteran suicide, or even completing the tasks assigned in the EO by the President.\r\nAt the January 2018 signing of EO 13822, then-Secretary Shulkin announced that under the President's leadership, with this executive order, we're taking an unprecedented action today in that we will be covering all separating military members who are transitioning into civilian life  100 percent of them  with the mental health benefit for 12 months.[1] The VA's EO 13822 fact sheet[2] also shows that the EO was intended to direct VA and its Federal partners to provide transitioning servicemembers with one year of mental health care access.\r\nAt the EO signing, Secretary Shulkin stated this expanded mental health care benefit would be available by March 9, 2018. However, almost three years later, the Department has not increased access to mental health care, leaving up to 60 percent of newly transitioned servicemembers without access to life-saving care. Also troubling, the Joint Action Plan for implementing EO 13822 contains no references or commitments to providing transitioning servicemembers with this one year of mental health care. When can veterans expect to receive access to the essential mental health care promised to them by the Trump Administration?\r\nFurther, the Joint Action Plan laid out several goals for enrolling transitioning servicemembers into VA health care, and the Department's progress to-date is unclear. For example, in Task 1.2, VA and DOD are charged with developing a method for servicemembers to pre-register for VA health care online during the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). Committee staff inquired as to the status and metrics for this effort with the Department in June of this year. Three and a half months later, VA provided a presentation with statistics that were last updated in January 2020 and indicated it was the most accurate information available. How is it possible to only have data that is nine months old for an initiative tied to the Department's top clinical priority and a national epidemic? VA must redouble its attention to executing pre- registration for VA health care during TAP. Lack of progress in this area is a broken promise by the Administration to make serious efforts at connecting transitioning servicemembers to care.\r\nSimilarly, Task 2.2 was intended to screen transitioning servicemembers for mental health risks, refer them to care, and enroll them in VA health care if eligible and they desired to do so. The January 2020 progress report provided to the Committee on EO 13822 implementation completely removes the original goal of VA health care enrollment, and reports that a funding request for an IT tool to facilitate DOD-VA data sharing on mental health screening and referral to care was denied. When will this streamlined process of screening, referral to care, and enrollment into VA health care be ready, and why has the Department not prioritized creating or funding IT solutions to bring it to fruition?\r\nApplying for VA health care is often a confusing and burdensome task for transitioning servicemembers. Task 3.1 was intended to create an easy button for recently transitioned servicemembers to contact VA about mental health care options and then schedule care and/or enroll in VA health care in a way that cuts through some of the red tape. Originally planned for December 2018 implementation, VA still has nothing to show for this action item. What is the current implementation status and when does the Department expect to unveil the VA health care easy button? Those who served our nation deserve to have streamlined access to the care and benefits they earned, and connections to life-saving mental health care are especially paramount.\r\nWarm hand-offs to care for transitioning servicemembers are also a significant concern for the implementation of this EO. The January 2020 progress report shows there has been limited progress made to-date. For example, on Task 2.3, VA committed to developing a career readiness tool and facilitating warm hand-offs to peer support and for clinical care, with a target completion date of July 2018. Has VA deployed this tool and how many warm hand-offs have been made to-date? Reaching veterans in need and providing connections to resources are some of the simplest, yet most effective, tools we have for reducing suicide risk.\r\nSustained attention and guidance from leadership is an essential component of successful implementation of any major initiative. For EO 13822, how regularly are you briefed on its progress? What changes have you directed to the EO's implementation and Joint Action Plan? How often does VA engage with the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security on implementation? And, when can servicemembers and veterans expect tangible changes resulting from this EO? Please provide a detailed breakdown of the current status of every task, current metrics, date tasks were completed, remaining tasks that are open, and concrete data to show the impact of each line of effort in the EO and Joint Action Plan on veterans' and servicemembers' lives.\r\nMore than 6,000 veterans die by suicide annually, and each loss of life is immeasurable. Congress has done its part by providing consistent and robust resources for VA's mental health budget and developing and passing comprehensive veterans' mental health care legislation, most recently the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act. Hopefully the issuance of EO 13822 was more than a hollow press opportunity by the Administration, and we can expect it to do right by our nation's military and veterans by fully implementing the EO and all laws passed by Congress focused on mental health and suicide prevention.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pro-choice-caucus-leaders-statement-confirmation-amy-coney-barrett", "Pro-Choice Caucus leaders\u2019 statement on confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", "degette", "https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Barbara Lee (D-CA), as co-chairs of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, issued the following statement after the Senate voted tonight to confirm Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court:\n\n\"This entire confirmation process has made a mockery out of the highest court in the land. Today's vote to confirm Judge Barrett to the Supreme Court is an affront to democracy as we know it - women, vulnerable communities, and working families are going to suffer because of this for generations to come.\n\n\"The United States is eight days away from one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime. Millions of Americans have already cast their ballots, but Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans jammed through this illegitimate confirmation with no regard for giving the American people a say in this process.\n\n\"As leaders of the Pro-Choice Caucus, we are fully aware of the danger this nomination presents to women around the country. President Trump has spent years promising to only nominate justices who are hostile towards abortion. During the 2016 election, he campaigned on his commitment to nominating justices who would overturn Roe v. Wade. And despite Republicans' unwillingness to publicly acknowledge their intent to strip women of their constitutional rights, we've always known that the nominee to replace the late Justice Ginsburg would be a vessel through which they could do so.\n\n\"It comes as no surprise that Judge Barrett's record reflects years of hostility towards Roe and access to reproductive care. Tonight's confirmation is a devastating development in our decades long fight for reproductive freedom. But we are going to ensure officials at every level of government in every state across the country are committed to protecting reproductive freedoms, especially for low-income and women of color. This fight is not over with this confirmation. Let this serve as a renewed commitment to continuing our work in Congress and in the states.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-28T00:34:36Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pro-choice-caucus-leaders-statement-on-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett", "Pro-Choice Caucus leaders statement on confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Barbara Lee (D-CA), as co-chairs of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, issued the following statement after the Senate voted tonight to confirm Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court:\nThis entire confirmation process has made a mockery out of the highest court in the land. Today's vote to confirm Judge Barrett to the Supreme Court is an affront to democracy as we know it - women, vulnerable communities, and working families are going to suffer because of this for generations to come.\nThe United States is eight days away from one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime. Millions of Americans have already cast their ballots, but Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans jammed through this illegitimate confirmation with no regard for giving the American people a say in this process.\nAs leaders of the Pro-Choice Caucus, we are fully aware of the danger this nomination presents to women around the country. President Trump has spent years promising to only nominate justices who are hostile towards abortion. During the 2016 election, he campaigned on his commitment to nominating justices who would overturnRoe v. Wade. And despite Republicans' unwillingness to publicly acknowledge their intent to strip women of their constitutional rights, we've always known that the nominee to replace the late Justice Ginsburg would be a vessel through which they could do so.\nIt comes as no surprise that Judge Barrett's record reflects years of hostility towards Roe and access to reproductive care. Tonight's confirmation is a devastating development in our decades long fight for reproductive freedom. But we are going to ensure officials at every level of government in every state across the country are committed to protecting reproductive freedoms, especially for low-income and women of color. This fight is not over with this confirmation. Let this serve as a renewed commitment to continuing our work in Congress and in the states.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 901, "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 \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "CO", "p2": "2020"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 901, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=CO&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 865, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 36, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "CO", "label": "CO", "count": 901, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 901, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2020-10-26,https~3A~2F~2Fdegette~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fpro-choice-caucus-leaders-statement-on-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=CO&year=2020&_next=2020-10-26%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fdegette~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fpro-choice-caucus-leaders-statement-on-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 305.25396298617125, "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"}