{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"GA\" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/whitfield-and-bishop-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-rescind-epa-s-carbon", "WHITFIELD AND BISHOP LEAD BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO RESCIND EPAs CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS PLAN", "2014-12-22", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), Member of the House Committee on Appropriations, and Ed Whitfield (R-KY-01), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Energy and Power, today wrote to President Barack Obama to express their concerns regarding the proposed rule announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on June 2, 2014, entitled \u201cCarbon Pollution Emission Guidelines for Existing Stationary Sources: Electric Utility Generating Units.\u201d EPA\u2019s proposal would dramatically affect the \u201cway we generate, transmit and consume electricity in the United States\u201d by asserting unprecedented federal overreach in state electricity decision-making.\nJoined by nearly one hundred additional Members of Congress in the letter, Whitfield and Bishop detailed the complexity of the rule stating \u201cEPA specifically directs states to consider renewable energy standards, generation dispatch changes, co-firing or switching to natural gas, construction of new natural gas combined-cycle plants, transmission efficiency improvements, energy storage technology, plant retirements, expanding renewables like wind and solar, expanding nuclear, market-based trading programs, and demand-side energy efficiency and conservation programs.\u201d\u00a0\n\u201cUnder the rule, EPA would also have the ability to impose its own alternate federal energy plan on a state in the event EPA did not approve a state\u2019s plan. We agree that states should be free under their own laws to pursue these types of energy policies and activities within their own borders, but it is not the role of the EPA to exercise ultimate authority over a state\u2019s electricity system.\u201d\nFurthermore, Members stressed the importance of maintaining affordable and reliable electricity citing EPA\u2019s own projections that \u201cthere would be additional power plant retirements and electricity rate increases.\u201d\u00a0 If this were to occur, it would \u201c\u2026threaten electricity reliability and drive up energy costs for consumers, including the elderly, poor, and those on fixed incomes, at a time when over 50 million Americans are currently living in poverty.\u201d\nThe Members concluded the letter by recognizing that although some of their own views may vary on the statutory authority of the regulations they are \u201c\u2026all concerned that this rule is simply unworkable as proposed and, if finalized, would effectively give EPA control over a state\u2019s generation, supply, and consumption of power. Accordingly, we respectfully ask that you direct the EPA to withdraw its proposed rule.\u201d\n\u201cI am pleased that Representative Whitfield and I were able to secure strong bipartisan support to prevent EPA from overreaching its authority,\u201d said Bishop. \u201cThe proposed EPA rule would mean higher energy costs for consumers and would have a detrimental impact on our nation\u2019s economy. Congress cannot and must not allow that to happen now and into the future.\u201d\n\u201cI want to thank all of the Members who joined together in this effort, and especially Representative Bishop for his dedication to affordable electricity, and for recognizing the dangerous impact of this EPA\u2019s federal overreach,\u201d said Whitfield.\u00a0\u201cEPA\u2019s extreme actions are an attempt to force states and energy producers\u00a0to conform to regulations that dramatically increase electricity costs, destroy American jobs, and weaken our economy. I will not sit idly by as these regulations are made a reality. As Subcommittee Chairman, I will continue to use every tool at my disposal to exercise our oversight of the EPA and thoroughly examine all aspects of these regulations.\u201d\nTo view a copy of the letter to the President, please click here. \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-regarding-opening-relations-with-cuba", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT REGARDING OPENING RELATIONS WITH CUBA", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement regarding the recent announcement of the United States seeking to restore diplomatic and economic relations with Cuba:\n\u201cFirst and foremost, I am grateful for the efforts of President Obama, Senator Leahy, Representative Lee, and all the others who worked so hard to secure the freedom of Alan Gross and Rolando Trujillo. I am pleased that Alan Gross is now back home and reunited with his family, and am relieved that he and Rolando Trujillo are safe on American soil.\n\u201cFrom a national security, humanitarian, and economic point of view, normalizing our relationship with Cuba is a win-win for the United States. After 50 years of the failed policy of isolationism, establishing diplomatic relations with Cuba will renew our leadership with a strategic regional neighbor as well as allow us to compete more effectively with China\u2019s continually expanding global reach. Facilitating travel and commerce will reunite separated families, open up new opportunities for America and Cuba in needed Cuban infrastructure development, and allow the flow of basic goods and services between our two nations.\n\u201cMoreover, reopening Cuba as a market for products such as medical goods, agriculture, and information technology makes sense for our industries here in Georgia and across the United States. Middle and Southwest Georgia have much to gain through the development of a new and accessible market right in our backyard.\u201d\nCongressman Bishop is a former member of the U.S. House of Representatives Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. During his time on the Intelligence Committee, he traveled to Cuba twice and had the opportunity to meet with President Fidel Castro and heads of each of the ministries to discuss issues surrounding education, trade, commerce, and the potential of a mutual relationship between the two countries. Congressman Bishop spoke with the leaders of Cuba about the impact of opening up the borders and lifting the trade embargo on business between Georgia and Cuba.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-stands-up-for-individuals-with-disabilities", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STANDS UP FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop (GA-02) voted to open opportunities for people with disabilities to build a tax-exempt savings account to pay for higher education expenses, a primary residence, transportation, obtaining and maintaining employment, health and wellness, and other personal needs. The bipartisan Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE Act (H.R. 647), of which Congressman Bishop is a co-sponsor, was approved by the United States House of Representatives by a vote of 404 to 7.\n\u201cThe ABLE Act is long overdue legislation that will allow individuals with disabilities to keep more of their hard earned savings and lead more independent lives,\u201d said Congressman Bishop.\nThe ABLE Act is supported by many organizations including the National Federation of the Blind, National Down Syndrome Society, Autism Society, National Organization on Disability, National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services, and National Organization of Nurses with Disabilities.\nTo read more about the ABLE Act, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-american-taxpayers", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS AMERICAN TAXPAYERS", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) supported strengthening the economy and providing certainty to Middle and Southwest Georgia taxpayers by voting in favor of H.R. 5771, the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014. The bill extends more than four dozen tax provisions that expired at the end of calendar year 2013 that would benefit businesses and individuals; H.R. 5771 was approved by a vote of 378 to 46 and now goes to the United States Senate for its consideration.\n\u201cBy lowering the amount of taxes paid, this bill strengthens America\u2019s direct access to capital,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe extension of tax credits and allowances in this bill is narrowly focused to where it is needed most \u2013 supporting America\u2019s homeowners, growing jobs in Georgia, and stimulating our local economies.\u201d\nRegarding educators and students, the Tax Increase Prevention Act includes the tax deductions on expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers and a tax deduction on qualified tuition and related expenses. For property owners, the bill provides a low-income housing tax credit rate for newly constructed non-federally subsidized buildings; accelerated depreciation of qualified leasehold improvement, restaurant, and retail improvement property, of motorsports entertainment complexes, and of business property on Indian reservations; a tax credit for residential energy efficiency improvements; a tax deduction for energy efficient commercial buildings; and a tax credit for energy efficient new homes.\nFor business owners, film studios, and transportation, the bill includes a tax credit for differential wage payments to employees who are active duty members of the Uniformed Services; the expensing allowance for film and television production costs and costs of live theatrical productions; and a tax credit for qualified railroad track maintenance expenditures. The bill also supports the production of clean energy by providing a tax credit for second generation bio-fuel production; income and excise tax credits for biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel mixtures; and a tax credit for producing electricity using wind, biomass, geothermal, landfill gas, trash, hydropower, and marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy facilities.\nFor more information and full list of tax extenders, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206044951/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson%E2%80%99s-statement-ferguson-grand-jury-decision", "Rep. Johnsons statement on the Ferguson Grand Jury Decision", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "LITHONIA, GA -- Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement on the decision of the Ferguson Grand Jury not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of unarmed teen Michael Brown:\n\u201cI am shocked, and along with many others, outraged by the process of the grand jury consideration of the killing of Michael Brown, and the decision reached by the grand jury to not indict this officer. These are trying times, and people have a right to protest what we see as an injustice. Protests should be expected, but I urge protesters to remain peaceful. Death, personal injury or property destruction will not right the injustice, nor will it bring Michael Brown back to life. So let\u2019s be smart, and let\u2019s handle this through the strategy of non-violence.\nI also urge law enforcement to exercise restraint and to not meet peaceful protesters with a militarized show of force like what we saw in August. Such a display will only inflame protesters and provoke a violent response.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206044733/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-passing-marion-barry", "Rep. John Lewis on Passing of Marion Barry", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"I was sorry to learn early this morning that Ward 8 Councilman and four-term Mayor of Washington D.C. Marion S. Barry Jr. died.\u00a0 I first met Marion in 1959 in Nashville when we both were some of the first participants in the non-violent workshops held in the basement of First Baptist Church and Clark Memorial United Methodist Church led by the Rev. James Lawson.\u00a0\n\"Marion had been a leader and organizer of student protests before he even came to Nashville at Lemoyne Owens College in Memphis.\u00a0 In the spring of 1960 he was elected the first chairman of the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee because he was smart, articulate, impressive, committed to the philosophy and discipline of non-violence, and a bit more experienced in leadership than those of us who were undergraduates. He had come to Nashville to study chemistry on the graduate level at\u00a0 Fisk. As chairman, he testified on behalf of the students and the movement before the Democratic and Republican conventions in 1960.\n\"Ultimately, he left the deep South and moved to Washington where he became the face of progressive change. He transformed D.C. from a jurisdiction run by the federal government into a self-governing city and a mecca for black politicians, government administrators, businessmen and intellectuals. He used his influence and power to lay the foundation for the thriving, metropolitan community people flock to today.\n\"Marion Barry was always hopeful, always optimistic. He was committed to the cause of civil rights and social justice, and he was committed to the people of Washington, DC.\u00a0 He loved the people, and the people loved him. Marion Barry was a dynamic leader, a wonderful friend, and a strategic master who did all he could to serve the people of the District of Columbia. He will be deeply missed.\".\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206074421/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-sanford-bishop-statement-on-hagel-resignation", "CONGRESSMAN SANFORD BISHOP STATEMENT ON HAGEL RESIGNATION", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies issued the following statement regarding the resignation of Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel:\n\u201cA decorated combat veteran, thoughtful Senator from Nebraska, and steadfast Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel\u2019s commitment to our nation speaks for itself. Always reflecting upon his personal connection to our enlisted men and women, Secretary Hagel worked to ensure the continuous care of our soldiers, airmen, sailors, Marines, and their families as the Department of Defense transitioned away from two full scale conflicts in the Middle East. As our armed forces strive to maintain readiness and vigilance in meeting new challenges at home and abroad, it is my hope that the incoming Secretary of Defense will work to fill the large and unfaltering boots of service left behind by Secretary Chuck Hagel.\u201d\nFor more information on Secretary Hagel\u2019s biography, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206094157/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-supports-presidents-executive-action-immigration-reform", "Rep. John Lewis Supports President's  Executive Action on Immigration Reform", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"Tonight President Obama spoke passionately to the nation about the guidelines of an executive order he will issue to jumpstart the process of immigration reform in this country.\u00a0 He was clear that the steps he outlined tonight do not undermine or preclude the necessary legislative action of Congress, where the most far-reaching work on immigration reform still must be done.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"As he so eloquently described, the human cost of the stops, starts and delays of this Congress to overhaul immigration through comprehensive, bipartisan legislation has been too great.\u00a0 Families are being torn apart, children are detained in jails meant to incarcerate and punish.\u00a0 People are being rounded up, and some are deported to countries they have never known.\u00a0 This is no way for a leading nation committed to the principles of democracy to treat human beings.\u00a0 We cannot see ourselves as leaders if we allow the lives of others to literally hang in the balance opposite political ambitions, the prospects of the 2016 election, and concerns about which team scores the most points.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"The Senate passed a bi-partisan legislative solution to immigration reform, which was never acted on by the House, despite the bitter protests of the minority who were prepared to debate and pass the bill.\u00a0 History will show that this President has used the power of the executive order far less than any other recent president and that the stubborn resistance to legislative action has forced him to respond with executive authority.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Faced with this humanitarian crisis and legislative impasse, any leader who has the power and the tools to help abate this emergency has a moral obligation to act.\u00a0 This executive order affects not only Latino immigrants from Central and South America, but also European, Caribbean, Asian and African immigrants whose trials are not as widely covered, but are just as damaging.\u00a0 I am glad that President Obama has done what he could to assist 5 million people.\u00a0 Some clear step by this nation toward the resolution of this crisis is long overdue.\"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206045014/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson%E2%80%99s-statement-president-obama%E2%80%99s-executive-action-immigration", "Rep. Johnsons statement on President Obamas executive action on immigration", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 As President Barack Obama prepares to announce an executive action that takes steps toward fixing our broken immigration system, Rep. Johnson released the following statement:\n\u201cJust as past presidents have used executive orders to move society forward, President Obama is using his authority to boldly push the nation ahead on immigration reform,\u201d said Johnson.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cPresident Abraham Lincoln \u2013 exercising his constitutional authority \u2013 issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. President Truman used an executive order to integrate the armed forces in 1948. President Eisenhower used an executive order to desegregate schools in 1957. In the 1960s, Presidents Kennedy and Johnson used them ban racial discrimination in federal housing, hiring, and contracting.\nPresident Obama is making his historic contribution to advance our nation by protecting dreamers and undocumented parents and families of U.S. citizens from deportation as well as making more visas available for highly-skilled workers. His order will also secure our borders. I support the President\u2019s use of executive action, and I stand together with the millions of undocumented individuals and their families who have been held hostage for years by conservative leadership that refuses to give them the opportunity to legally become part of our country.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=397507", "2015 Legislative Calendar", "2014-11-19", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "2015 Legislative Calendar\r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        \r\n    Posted by\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    on\r\n    November 19, 2014\r\n   | \r\n       comments\r\n    \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      # e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    If you are planning a trip to Washington in 2015, you may want to check out the new legislative calendar: http://www.democraticwhip.gov/sites/default/files/2015CALENDAR.pdfOne of the\u00a0busiest tourist times of the year is\u00a0during the Cherry Blossom Festival. You can see the dates for that event here: \u00a0http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/2014/05/29/2015-festival-dates-announced/\nTo learn more about tours, see my visitors page at: /constituentservices/visitdc.htm\n\u00a0\r\n  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      # e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140221084306/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-surpasses-22-million-mark-constituent-services", "Rep. Johnson surpasses $50 million mark in constituent services", "2014-11-19", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Since 2007, Congressman\u2019s office helps thousands of residents navigate housing, health care, Social Security, IRS and veterans benefits\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nLITHONIA, GA \u2013 Since taking office in 2007, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) has worked to help secure more than $30 million for constituents seeking help with federal agencies from his offices in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of four counties \u2013 DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton \u2013 and more than 700,000 residents.\n\u201cHelping constituents solve seemingly intractable problems is what my district office does every day. I\u2019m proud that my staff has been able to help so many constituents receive the money and benefits due them from the federal government. Taking care of home first is my number one priority.\u201d\nJohnson, whose Washington, D.C. and district offices have a strong reputation throughout Georgia and the nation for strong constituent services, said he will continue to put constituents first.\nJohnson\u2019s office has helped more than 15,000 constituents who have reached out for assistance receive $30 million since 2007.\nThe following are some success stories:\nVeterans Affairs: A U.S. military veteran from Snellville, Ga., received $100,000 back pay and a $3,300 monthly benefit following an inquiry and update request from Rep. Johnson\u2019s office. The veteran is a Vietnam Agent Orange victim who suffers from PTSD and severe heart condition. Along with this monetary benefit, the veteran will also be receiving additional care at the VAMC.\nA U.S. military veteran received $30,000 back pay and an $810 monthly benefit following an inquiry and update request from Rep. Johnson\u2019s office. The veteran suffers from PTSD and depression, and the office also followed up to ensure he was getting the proper care needed from his doctors.\u00a0\nSocial Security: A constituent was denied twice for disability benefits and requested assistance from Rep. Johnson\u2019s office because his medical condition was dire. The office worked with the constituent to ensure that the Social Security Administration had the medical evidence needed for a favorable decision by the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR).\u00a0 Within three months of the inquiry, the man\u2019s claim was granted, earning him $31,000 in back pay and monthly benefits.\nInternal Revenue Service: Recently, Congressman Johnson cleared up an IRS issue for a constituent. She left the following message on Rep. Johnson\u2019s Facebook page: \u201cCongressman, I just wanted to thank you and especially (your constituent services representative) Shy Armstrong! Two weeks after submitting my problem with the IRS, the problem was SOLVED!!!! I owe a debt of gratitude to my congressman. Often we hear all the negatives and low approval ratings of the U.S. House of Representatives. Well, MY congressman truly worked on my behalf, and a 3 month problem was solved within 2 weeks! Thank you so much, Congressman Johnson. You\u2019re a man who is FOR the people!!\u201d\nHousing: Since 2009, Johnson\u2019s office has helped nearly 1,700 residents deal with pending foreclosures of their homes. Since 2011, more than 700 homeowners in the Fourth District have been approved for HomeSafe Georgia \u2013 which helps homeowners who are unemployed or underemployed through no fault of their own with up to 18 months of mortgage payments \u2013 resulting in nearly $14 million in relief, more than any other district in Georgia. Rep. Johnson\u2019s office has worked with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to get the word out about HomeSafe at two events \u2013 and helped get DCA\u2019s Fourth District outreach off the ground.\nExample of helping save a home: A constituent contacted the office seeking help with postponement of a foreclosure. Her lender wouldn\u2019t reconsider and told her that foreclosure would proceed. She had been previously denied because she had no income but by the time she asked Rep. Johnson\u2019s office for help, she was working. Rep. Johnson\u2019s office sent an inquiry to her mortgage company asking for reconsideration since she was now working, and requesting postponement of foreclosure to give the lender time to verify her employment.\u00a0 On the day before the scheduled foreclosure, she was notified that foreclosure would be postponed and that she would be approved for a loan modification (she also later learned that she was approved for the HomeSafe Georgia program.)\nOnline Office: Rep. Johnson\u2019s staff stands ready to assist residents of Georgia 4th Congressional District with their federal agency problems. For a full list of services, visit Johnson\u2019s constituent service section of his Web site: http://hankjohnson.house.gov/.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nJohnson\u2019s website is a one-stop shop for news updates, e-newsletters, speeches, legislation, constituent services, videos, photos and place where constituents can e-mail their representative directly. Rep. Johnson\u2019s office has addressed more than 50,000 constituent e-mails and letters since 2007.\n\u25ba Town Halls: Since taking office in 2007, Johnson has held hundreds of meetings and participated in a host of community events to hear directly from constituents. In August 2009, Johnson held a town hall on health care reform that was a model for the nation. More than 3,000 people attended. In 2009-10, Johnson held three jobs fairs in the span of 13 months that served more than 2,000 constituents, with some receiving job offers on the spot. In August 2011, Johnson co-hosted a jobs fair with Congressman John Lewis. More than 5,000 people attended. Johnson has held five \u201ctelephone town halls\u201d with more than 100,000 residents since 2009. In 2012, Rep. Johnson held two foreclosure prevention events in conjunction with the Georgia DCA.\n\u25ba Senior Meet & Greets: From 2007-2013, Rep. Johnson has held a dozen senior citizens meet & greets throughout the Fourth District at senior centers in DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton counties.\n\u25ba Partnership Alliance Learning Series (PALS): Congressman Johnson launched a unique program called PALS that engages nonprofits and small businesses on the importance of leveraging missions to compete for federal grants and small business opportunities. It also connects nonprofits and small businesses to federal, state and local resources.\n\u25ba Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families Initiatives:\u00a0 \u201cWorking Together. Making a Difference\u201d:\u00a0 Congressman Johnson supports The Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families, which offers direct facilitation for a variety of community initiatives as well as various type of support for other community initiatives. Michael Hutcheson, Executive Director and Claire Cline of Rockdale United Way met with the Congressman\u2019s staff to build and forge a partnership for the benefit of families and children in the Rockdale community. From that meeting, the Congressman remains committed to providing support where needed, specifically though staff engagement for the Rockdale Nonprofit Resource Summits and letters of support for the nonprofit community.\n\u25ba Academy Nominations: Each year Congressman Johnson has the privilege of nominating a limited number of students to four of the five service academies. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. http://hankjohnson.house.gov/serving-you/military-academy-nominations\n\u25ba Arts Competition: Each spring, a nationwide high school arts competition is sponsored by the members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Artistic Discovery Contest is open to all high school students in the 4th District. The over-all winner of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. http://hankjohnson.house.gov/serving-you/art-competition\n\u25ba Mobile Office Hours: Upon request, Rep. Johnson\u2019s staff can meet with a constituent(s) at Conyers City Hall on Scott Street, Covington City Hall on the historic square, Northlake Mall in Tucker and Snellville City Hall on Oak Road. For constituents wishing to meet with Rep. Johnson\u2019s staff outside Lithonia, please call 770-987-2291 to request a meeting in your area.\n\u25ba E-Newsletter: Congressman Johnson sends regular updates to more than 10,000 constituents from his office for subscribers of his e-newsletter: http://hankjohnson.house.gov/contact-me/newsletter.\n\u25ba Social Media: Congressman Johnson can also be reached through Facebook [http://www.facebook.com/pages/Congressman-Hank-Johnson/115356957005] and Twitter [http://twitter.com/RepHankJohnson].\n\u25ba Offices: For face-to-face meetings and help with federal agencies, Congressman Johnson and his staff are available at five offices in Georgia (see Mobile Office Hours) and in Washington, D.C., Rayburn Building 2240. Rep. Johnson\u2019s main district office is located at 5700 Hillandale Drive (Suite 120) in Lithonia 30058. In Georgia, call 770-987-2291 and in Washington, call 202-225-1605. Please call ahead or for an appointment or request a meeting online at http://hankjohnson.house.gov/contact-me/request-meeting.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206074433/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-837119-in-housing-vouchers-to-columbus", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $837,119 IN HOUSING VOUCHERS TO COLUMBUS HOUSING AUTHORITY", "2014-11-19", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "COLUMBUS, GA\u2014Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to announce that the Columbus Housing Authority will receive $837,119 in housing voucher grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assist with the Booker T. Washington Development renewal project, a low-income housing development scheduled for demolition. The housing choice vouchers will allow low-income families to lease or purchase safe and affordable privately-owned housing.\n\u201cThese vouchers will provide a fresh start for families in Columbus who need safe and affordable housing,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe vouchers will also make a big difference in rejuvenating the community by continuing the reconstruction of one of the oldest public housing facilities in Georgia.\u201d\n\u201cThe Columbus Housing Authority is excited to be receiving HUD\u2019s housing vouchers,\u201d said Len Williams, Executive Director at the Columbus Housing Authority. \u201cThe vouchers will allow us to move ahead with the Booker T. Washington project by providing relocation assistance for the residents.\u201d\nUnder the administration of the Columbus Housing Authority, the Booker T. Washington Apartments include 392 one- to three-bedroom units. After the demolition, 200 new units will be built with sections dedicated for use by families and senior citizens. The project is estimated to be completed by 2016.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206094414/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-gov-nixon-law-enforcement-nationwide-keep-military-equipment-ice", "Rep. Johnson to Gov. Nixon, law enforcement nationwide: Keep military equipment on ice", "2014-11-19", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman calls for protestors to remain peaceful, calm WASHINGTON, D.C. As a Ferguson, Missouri, grand jury prepares to deliver its decision in the shooting death of an unarmed teenager Michael Brown, the leading Congressional voice against militarization of local police forces warned Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon and law enforcement officials nationwide to respect Missourians\u2019 and Americans' rights to assembly and protest, and urged against the unnecessary deployment of militarized police forces whose presence could escalate tensions. He also called for protestors to remain peaceful and calm: \u201cAs soon as Mine Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAPs) vehicles and military equipment come out, local authorities are escalating an already tense situation,\u201d said Rep. Johnson. \u201cThis equipment, including MRAPs, grenade launchers, and automatic weapons greater than .50 caliber, is turning America\u2019s local law enforcement into something more akin to an army. Let\u2019s be clear: Our Main Streets are not war zones. The militarization of law enforcement is counter-productive to domestic policing and needs to stop. For their part, protesters must remain peaceful and calm. Some outside agitators resorted to violence and looting that marred the protests in Ferguson this summer. Violence provides justification for those who want to militarize and makes it more difficult for healing and constructive dialogue.\u201d ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206074445/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-the-death-of-former-georgia-governor", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF FORMER GEORGIA GOVERNOR SANDERS", "2014-11-18", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement on the passing of former Georgia Governor Carl E. Sanders:\n\u201cI was saddened to hear of the passing of former Governor Carl Sanders. He lived a full life as a true statesman, philanthropist, veteran, defender of education, and champion for better government. During his terms as a \u2018New South\u2019 legislator and Governor, the Capitol in Atlanta was desegregated as national civil rights legislation was implemented nationwide. A successful businessman until his final years, Governor Sanders\u2019 contributions to Georgia will long be remembered. Our grateful state\u2019s thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time of loss.\u201d\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206135734/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-diplomacy-path-preventing-nuclear-armed-iran", "Rep. Johnson: Diplomacy is the Path to Preventing a Nuclear-armed Iran", "2014-11-18", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Iran and a six-nation negotiating group are trying to reach an agreement that could bring an end to 12 years of deadlock over Iran\u2019s nuclear program: \u201cIt is welcome news that the U.S. and Iranian diplomats are engaged in talks this week to secure an agreement by November 24th that guards against a nuclear-armed Iran. \u00a0 While some of my colleagues have objected to negotiations with Iran, it must be noted that thanks to these historic diplomatic efforts the world is further from a nuclear-armed Iran, and the risk of an eventual war over this issue. Now more than ever is the time to commit ourselves to diplomacy. We know the outcome of a rush to war. Too many hardline members and members-elect are already opposing a deal, emboldening hardliners in Iran.\u00a0 What the hardliners do not say, is that failure to reach a deal clears the path to war.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tI agree with my colleagues that Congress must fulfill its constitutional duties to provide oversight to ensure that Iran continues to comply with its commitments, as outlined in the Joint Plan of Action.\u00a0 However, ultimately a comprehensive nuclear agreement must be negotiated by diplomats, not by congressional decree.\u00a0 The Constitution vests the power of negotiating international agreements to the executive branch.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tPress reports indicate that a possible outcome of these negotiations would be a multi-year accord that would be structured in successive stages. Upon stringent verification that Iran has given progressively greater concessions to rein in its nuclear program, the United States and its allies would provide proportionate sanctions relief. \u00a0  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tCongress has passed multiple rounds of sanctions legislation against Iran that has expressly granted the president the authority to waive or suspend designated sanctions.\u00a0 Bipartisan support for executive waiver authority is critical to ensuring that our diplomats have the maneuverability they need to successfully negotiate an agreement that prevents a nuclear-armed Iran. Our negotiators need support from Congress to accomplish the objective shared by lawmakers, the Administration, and the American people, which is to peacefully prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. Failure to provide support for diplomacy is an endorsement of war. The world is watching.\u201d\nRep. Johnson is a member of the House Armed Services and Judiciary committees. He serves as ranking member of the House Judiciary subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206074456/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-expanding-our-nation-s-energy-portfolio", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS EXPANDING OUR NATIONS ENERGY PORTFOLIO", "2014-11-14", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) supported job creation and energy independence by voting to support H.R. 5682, a measure that would immediately authorize the construction and operation of the Keystone XL pipeline. The project has been awaiting a Presidential permit for six years because the pipeline crosses an international border.\n\u201cIn addition to creating jobs and strengthening our national security, the Keystone XL Pipeline project will advance the security and diversity of the United States' petroleum supply in an environmentally safe and economically responsible manner,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cTo keep up with an increasingly competitive world, it is vitally important that our economy continues to increase our energy portfolio by taking advantage of all types of resources, including solar, wind, carbon, hydro, bio, nuclear, and fossil fuels--including oil.\u201d\nThe Keystone XL project would transport an estimated 830,000 barrels of oil per day from Alberta, Canada to Gulf Coast refineries, thereby reducing U.S. reliance on energy imports from the Middle East and Venezuela as well as immediately making the U.S. less vulnerable to political and security-related disruptions. In addition, the pipeline would produce significant economic benefits by directly creating an estimated 20,000 jobs. Hundreds of thousands of additional jobs are expected to be created indirectly, both in the building of the pipeline and in the refining of its crude oil.\nH.R. 5682 passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 252 to 161. The U.S. Senate is expected to vote on an identical measure next week (S. 2280).\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141114031950/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-hank-johnson-addresses-police-militarization-hasc-hearing", "Rep. Hank Johnson addresses police militarization in HASC hearing", "2014-11-13", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman discusses his bipartisan Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014 \nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On Thursday, November 13, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) will discuss his bipartisan bill \u2013 Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5478) \u2013 in a House Armed Services Subcommittee Hearing in Oversight and Investigations on the Pentagon\u2019s 1033 Program.\nThe 1033 Program permits surplus U.S. military equipment, such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs), Humvees and automatic weapons from warzones in Iraq and Afghanistan, to be transferred to city police departments free of charge. While these military-grade weapons are much-needed by our military on the field of battle, Rep. Johnson recognizes that they are of little use to city police departments whose purpose is to protect American civilians.\nThe Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5478) would place restrictions and transparency measures on the Department of Defense (DOD) Program that transfers surplus military equipment to state and local law enforcement agencies.\nRep. Johnson\u2019s statement:\nThank you Mr. Chairman for holding this important hearing.\u00a0\nIn a fundamentally misguided effort to stop Americans from using drugs, the Congress allowed the DOD to provide surplus military equipment \u2013 often from warzones overseas \u2013 to local police for free.\u00a0 To date, more than $4 billion in this equipment has been transferred.\u00a0\nThis equipment, including Mine Resistant Ambush-Protected vehicles (MRAPs), grenades, launchers, and other weapons, is turning America\u2019s local police forces into something more akin to an army.\nAccess to free military-style weapons has created a perfect storm for police violence. This year alone in Georgia, a baby was badly burned when police dropped a \u201cflash bang\u201d grenade in his crib during an early morning drug raid and a grandfather was killed by police in a commando-style raid on his house in October.\nI have introduced a bipartisan bill to rein in the 1033 program that now has 44 cosponsors.\nHR 5478, the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act, would curtail the types of equipment that local law enforcement agencies can get for free from the DOD.\nThe bill would also require detailed accounting to ensure that equipment is not lost or sold. You may be surprised to hear this, but the bill also ends a statutory requirement that law enforcement use the equipment they receive.\nYou heard that right. Today, law enforcement is required to use that free MRAP or grenade launcher. This is a common sense proposal that I hope my colleagues on the committee will seriously consider.\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141112232323/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-hank-johnson-headlines-policy-hearing-police-militarization", "Rep. Hank Johnson headlines policy hearing on police militarization", "2014-11-12", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman to open American Constitution Society for Law and Policy (ACS) panel discussion: \u201cMilitarization and the Changing Culture of Policing in America\u201d WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On Wednesday, November 12, ACS will host a panel discussion about the effects and legal ramifications of the increased use of military equipment by local police departments across the country and the steps federal, state and local policymakers can take to combat this trend.\u00a0 \u00a0 Congressman Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr. (D-GA) \u2013 who introduced the bipartisan Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5478) -- will give opening remarks. This summer, the nation witnessed one of the most shocking displays of police militarization when police donned camouflage tactical gear and climbed aboard heavily armored vehicles to meet protestors in the streets of Ferguson, Missouri, in the aftermath of the shooting death of unarmed teenager Michael Brown. The militarization of police, however, is neither new nor isolated. Local police departments across the nation, participating in federal programs sponsored by the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Justice, increasingly have access to equipment traditionally reserved for military use, including body armor, high powered rifles, \u201csound cannons,\u201d armored vehicles, and grenade launchers. The discussion will focus on how these programs, ostensibly designed to aid law enforcement in the War on Drugs and the War on Terror, altered the culture of police departments. As police have come to more closely resemble paramilitary forces, what does it mean for our Fourth Amendment rights? And what is the impact on communities of color, which are often the most heavily policed? WHO:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04); Christopher Durocher, Director of Policy Development and Programming, American Constitution Society for Law & Policy.  \n\tPanelists: Moderator, Kimberly Atkins, Chief Washington Reporter/Columnist, Boston Herald; Kara Dansky, Senior Counsel, American Civil Liberties Union; Barry Friedman, Jacob D. Fuchsberg Professor of Law, New York University School of Law; Ronald Hampton, Advisor to National Police Accountability Project; former Executive Director, National Black Police Association; former Community Relations Officer, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department; Tom Nolan, Associate Professor of Criminology & Director of Graduate Programs in Criminology, Merrimack College; former Senior Policy Advisor at the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties; former lieutenant, Boston Police Department. WHAT:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Militarization and the Changing Culture of Policing in America WHEN:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Wednesday, November 12, 2014; 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. EDT WHERE: \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Rayburn House Office Building, Room 2237, Washington, DC 20515. Lunch will be available starting at 12:00 p.m., and the program will begin at 12:15 p.m. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206074509/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-regarding-veterans-day-0", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT REGARDING VETERANS DAY", "2014-11-11", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies and Co-chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus (CMFC), released a statement honoring our nation's veterans in advance of the upcoming Veterans Day:\n\u201cOur veterans are not just former soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen. They are community members who are working as teachers, postmen, doctors, and truck drivers. They are also fathers and mothers and neighbors to us all. Not only have they served and defended our nation and our liberties, but they continue to protect, learn, and invent so that we will know greater opportunity. On this Veterans Day, we take pause to give thanks to our veterans and their families for sacrificing so much for so many for so long. America is stronger because of their perseverance and bravery\u2014and our nation would not be the same without their service.\u201d\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141115205309/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-reflects-passing-rep-lane-evans", "Rep. John Lewis Reflects on the Passing of Rep. Lane Evans", "2014-11-07", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"I was very sorry to learn of the passing of the former Rep. Lane Evans.\u00a0 I had the honor of serving with him for several years.\u00a0 He was a very serious, committed public servant who faithfully looked out for the well being of the people of his district.\u00a0 He was deeply concerned about the public good, and he voted for whatever he believed served the best interests of the country.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It was a pleasure to work with him. He was always a gentleman.\u00a0 My thoughts and prayers are for the comfort of his family and friends in this difficult hour.\"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141107212153/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnsons-2014-veterans-day-message", "Rep. Johnson's 2014 Veterans Day message", "2014-11-06", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "It was a singular honor for me to attend the 70th Anniversary of the Allied D-Day Invasion earlier this year in France, where I met real-life heroes like David Andrews, who landed on Utah Beach, Normandy on D-Day -- June 6, 1944. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, every day I\u2019m inspired to work on behalf of all our military personnel and veterans. My work as a member of Congress on behalf of veterans is two-fold: In Washington, I have consistently proposed or voted to help increase awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), boost mental health funding, decrease homelessness and increase job opportunities for our veterans. At home in Georgia through my constituent services representatives in Lithonia, we are working hard every day to ensure that veterans receive the benefits they\u2019ve earned. That\u2019s why on the eve of Veterans Day 2014 \u2013 Nov. 11 \u2013 we renew our commitments to the nation\u2019s more than 2 million service members and reservists, their families, and 23 million veterans, including more than 770,000 here in Georgia and more than 50,000 in the Fourth District.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=397508", "November is National Diabetes Month", "2014-11-03", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November is National Diabetes Month \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        \r\n    Posted by\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    on\r\n    November 3, 2014\r\n   | \r\n       comments\r\n    \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    November is National Diabetes Month, and the perfect time to spotlight a disease that affects almost 30 million Americans regardless of age, race or background.\r\n\u00a0\r\nAs a member of the Congressional Caucus on Diabetes, Congressman Scott has continuously supported legislation to improve research, education and treatment of Diabetes.\r\n\r\nThis year, several members of Congress, including Congressman Scott, requested $20 million to be allocated toward the National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP), a network of community programs based on the clinical trial to deliver proven and cost-effective lifestyle interventions to adults at high risk for Type 2 diabetes.\r\n\u00a0\r\nAdditional current legislation on Diabetes includes H.R. 1257, the Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act of 2013 to extend coverage to medical nutritional therapy services, and H.R. 1274, the Access to Quality Diabetes Education Act of 2013  to advocate for and educate public and health officials on the benefits of diabetes self management training.\r\n\r\nWhile Congressman Scott is working in Washington to put a stop to Diabetes, there are some steps you can take to manage and prevent Diabetes at home.\r\n\u00a0\r\nA healthy lifestyle is the best form of management and prevention of Diabetes. Well balanced meals, regular exercise and proper treatment are vital to staying in control of this disease.\r\n\r\nIf left untreated or poorly managed, Diabetes can cause serious health complications. Those with diabetes are more likely to experience heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, and amputations.\r\n\u00a0\r\nTogether we can work to prevent Diabetes by promoting awareness and education. To find out more information, visit the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141031000035/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-sends-potus-letter-torture", "Rep. Johnson sends POTUS letter on torture", "2014-10-30", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman leads letter urging President Obama to stand firm against use of torture \u2018anywhere in the world.\u2019 \nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) sent a letter to President Barack Obama this week urging the President to stand firm in his opposition to the use of torture anywhere in the world. The letter is signed by more than 30 colleagues.\nThe letter expresses support for ensuring the United Nations Convention Against Torture applies overseas, to all persons directly or indirectly under control of any U.S. authorities wherever they are located.\nAfter the 9/11 attacks, the Bush Administration wrongly interpreted the U.N. Convention Against Torture to not apply to U.S. detention centers overseas. This interpretation created the conditions that led to well-publicized abuses of detainees in U.S. facilities. In 2009, the Obama Administration issued an executive order that forbade cruel interrogations abroad and made it harder for a future administration to return to the use of torture.\u00a0\nNext month in Geneva, Switzerland, the Obama Administration will make a presentation to the United Nations Committee Against Torture.\u00a0\nUnfortunately, according to news reports, the Administration is considering affirming the misguided Bush Administration interpretation that allows for torture.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141024021938/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-hank-johnson-acuity-brands-jobs-facility-expansion", "Rep. Hank Johnson on Acuity Brands jobs, facility expansion", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "LITHONIA, GA \u2013 U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA04) released the following statement on the news that Acuity Brands will expand its operation, creating 700 jobs and investing more than $16 million into Rockdale and DeKalb counties over the next five years:\n\u201cFor Acuity to be retrofitting an existing building in Decatur to become its new state-of-the-art engineering and technology center just down the street from our Congressional District office is tremendous news for the Fourth Congressional District,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cAnd the fact that they are also investing in their Conyers facility means they will be creating good, high-paying jobs in our community for many years to come. As Congressman, I\u2019ve always enjoyed working with Acuity, and I look forward to working with them well into the future.\u201d\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141024022004/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-promotes-diversity-ownership-media-telecommunications-industries", "Rep. Johnson promotes diversity of ownership in media & telecommunications industries", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) recently sent a letter to Tom Wheeler, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, urging him to identify and eliminate market-entry barriers for small businesses and entrepreneurs, especially helping to create more diverse ownership in every area of media and telecommunications. \n\u201cThe media industry still suffers from an extreme lack of diversity, especially in broadcast ownership,\u201d Johnson\u2019s letter states. \u201cThere are less than 50 full-power TV stations owned by people of color and every year the list grows smaller. Diversity in ownership is crucial in enhancing competition and benefitting consumers. [I strongly encourage the Commission] to seriously consider innovative proposals submitted by minority-owned entities.\u201d\nIn addition to encouraging the Commission to uphold its important obligation to promote diversity, Rep. Johnson\u2019s letter also calls for the FCC to release a Triennial Report on market-entry barriers for small businesses and entrepreneurs.\nThe Commission continues to fall behind in its timely release of these reports, Johnson said.\n\u201cMinorities and women continue to face unique market-entry barriers. Timely reports and current data would empower the Commission to eliminate these barriers through practical solutions for facilitating full participation.\u201d\nThirteen colleagues signed Rep. Johnson\u2019s letter, including Barbara Lee and Maxine Waters of California, Bobby Rush of Illinois, Eleanor Holmes Norton of Washington, D.C., and Gwen Moore of Wisconsin.\nTo read the FCC\u2019s response, click HERE.\nAs the ranking member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law (RRCAL), Rep. Johnson has focused on a lack of diversity in media ownership and importance of diverse ownership.\nWhile the FCC\u2019s response was much appreciated, Rep. Johnson will continue to advocate for minority-owned businesses and the elimination of barriers for small businesses as both are essential to marketplace competition.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141115205628/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/tribute-legendary-post-editor-ben-bradlee", "Tribute to Legendary Post Editor Ben Bradlee", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON--Yesterday, the historic editor of The Washington Post, Mr. Benjamin Bradlee, died in his home of natural causes at the age of 93.\u00a0 Bradlee was the editor of the Post for 26 years and led the paper during its most powerful era, from 1965 through the height of its influence, after it broke the game-changing stories on the Watergate break-ins and the Pentagon Papers.\u00a0\u00a0 Under his leadership the paper won 17 Pulitzer Prizes and established itself as one of the top newspapers in the nation.\u00a0\u00a0 After learning about his death, Rep. Lewis made these comments:\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Ben Bradlee was one of the great editors of the 20th century.\u00a0 He set the standard for the Fourth Estate as an effective check on the power of government and as the daily recorder of\u00a0 the life of the nation.\u00a0 To him, news was more than a business.\u00a0 It was a responsibility, it was a calling, a public service that demanded substance above all for every reporter lucky enough to call it a profession, yet he believed stories had to be clothed in a brisk, engaging context.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"When Ben Bradlee left the newsroom, a light went out in the news business.\u00a0 It seemed he took with him the courage, the idealism, that intangible spark and a keen awareness of the power of the pen when he left.\u00a0 There are only a few leaders who define the best in their business for decades to come, who become a legend and a high watermark for others who pass that way.\u00a0 Ben Bradlee was that kind of leader, one of the greatest editors this nation has ever known.\u00a0 We would do well to remember his legacy and to use the lessons of his life to inform and strengthen the business of journalism today.\"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141024022032/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/study-rep-johnson-most-effective-member-ga-delegation-112th-congress", "Study: Rep. Johnson most effective member of GA Delegation in 112th Congress", "2014-10-21", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Johnson ranked 18 out of more than 200 Democrats in House\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 According to a new study by Vanderbilt University and the University of Virginia (UVA), Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) was ranked as the 18th most effective Democrat in the House during the 112th Congress, and the most effective Democrat from Georgia.\nHe was also ranked higher than any of his Republican colleagues from Georgia. Johnson was ranked 18 out of 204 Democrats.\nThe study judged effectiveness by looking at a lawmaker\u2019s \u201cproven ability to advance a member\u2019s agenda items through the legislative process and into law.\u201d\nThe scorecard looked at the number of bills a member introduced or sponsored; the significance of the bills; and how far each made it in the legislative process. The website adjusts a lawmaker\u2019s grade based upon seniority, committee leadership positions and whether their party holds the majority.\n\u201cMany people know me for my dry sense of humor, but I\u2019m also a serious legislator who gets results,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cI work hard to offer meaningful and impactful legislation that helps level the playing field for consumers, working people, the middle class and civil rights for the disenfranchised. I take great pride in our legislative shop and will continue offering bills of substance and work to get them passed into law.\u201d\u00a0\nThe study was conducted by Craig Volden, a professor of public policy and politics at UVA and Alan E. Wiseman, associate professor of Political Science and Law at Vanderbilt University.\nFor more: http://www.thelawmakers.org.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141021210743/http://johnlewis.house.gov:80/press-release/rep-john-lewis-comments-texas-voter-id-supreme-court-decision", "Rep. John Lewis Comments on Texas Voter ID Supreme Court Decision", "2014-10-18", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON--In a pre-dawn Saturday decision, the U.S. Supreme Court decided today to uphold the most restrictive voter ID law in the country.\u00a0 Though a lower court judge ruled the Texas law was unconstitutional due to the possibility that it could impede ballot access of as many as 600,000 registered voters and targets Latino and African American voters in the state, a majority of the Supreme Court ruled in an unsigned decision without explanation.\u00a0 Justice Ginsberg wrote a six page dissent signed by Justices Sotomayor and Kagan.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Upon hearing about this decision, Rep. John Lewis, a champion of voting rights, made these comments:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Despite the Supreme Court's decision today, I agree with many others who still believe that the Texas voter ID law and other such laws around the country are a modern-day poll tax.\u00a0 These laws, as they are written, put additional burdens on hundreds and thousands of voters, particularly the elderly, the poor, rural voters and minorities.\u00a0 These restrictions make it harder and more difficult for many registered voters, who have participated responsibly in elections for years, to have their voices heard in this society.\u00a0 I still believe there is a systematic effort to block voting access of certain segments of the population.\u00a0 We must not allow these efforts to go unchallenged.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"This is a very important election that could be the gateway to even more regressive change, if we do not act. I encourage everyone to check the current law in their state and make certain they have what it takes to vote in this election.\u00a0 Organizations must assist low-income, the elderly, rural voters and minorities to get what they need.\u00a0 Whatever it takes to vote, do it. The vote is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democracy.\u00a0 People struggled and died for the right to vote in this country.\u00a0 Let nothing stop you from participating in the democratic process.\"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141108012236/http://johnlewis.house.gov:80/press-release/rep-john-lewis-ebola-crisis", "Rep. John Lewis on Ebola Crisis", "2014-10-18", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"The Ebola crisis in Africa is devastating.\u00a0 Thousands of people have died, and thousands more are dying.\u00a0 As members of the world community, we cannot shut our doors and turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. Closing our borders will not cut our connection with the rest of humanity. It does not change the fact that we live in a diverse, multicultural, international world where thousands of\u00a0 individuals and professionals from all over the globe cross paths regularly.\u00a0 It will not change the fact that a virus knows no boundaries, and the threat it presents will only be reduced when we confront the problem aggressively and stop it at its source.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"The excellent treatment of American patients at Emory University hospital in close consultation with the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention demonstrates that Americans have important knowledge which could help end the crisis in Africa and any threat it poses to the community of nations. In Atlanta, up to this point, we have proved that the disease can be contained, that patients can recover, and medical teams can be kept safe if strict protocols are followed.\u00a0 We must do what a humane and caring people do; offer aid, as President Obama has done, offer medical expertise and guidance, and do what we can to help stamp the problem out at its source.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \" In this situation, we all need to be guided by experts and the evidence of medical research and experience, not by the calls of politicians who want to make the suffering of others a political football in an election season.\u00a0 We must not take action based on hysteria or fear.\u00a0 We must allow rational \u00a0thinking and sound medical practice to guide our decisions.\u00a0 However, there are policy questions that do need congressional attention.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Those of us in the Congress need to stand up and ensure that there are adequate appropriations for the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, the Customs and Border Protections service and other agencies to be certain this nation has the capability to respond effectively to medical emergencies of this kind.\u00a0 We must also move with all dispatch to help find a cure or a vaccine that can wipe out this dreadful disease.\"\n\n\tFor more information, visit: johnlewis.house.gov/ebola \n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141017035916/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-962000-grant-awarded-to-project-for", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $962,000 GRANT AWARDED TO PROJECT FOR STRENGHTINING CAREGIVING FOR PEOPLE WITH ALZHEIMERS DISEASE", "2014-10-14", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Americus, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to announce that the Administration for Community Living (ACL) / Administration on Aging (AOA) has awarded a grant of $962,620 to the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving at Georgia Southwestern State University for their project, the Specialized Supportive Services Project through the Alzheimer\u2019s Disease Initiative. The project\u2019s goal is to address service gaps and strengthen existing services through the development and delivery of an evidence-based curriculum focused on behavioral symptom management.\n\u201cThe Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving and Georgia Southwestern State University has been a leader in the treatment of family members impacted by Alzheimer\u2019s Disease,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIt is truly important that we improve our understanding of how to care for individuals afflicted with Alzheimer\u2019s Disease as our population ages.\u201d\n\u201cThe project provides evidence based training for caregivers, both family and direct care workers. It is challenging to manage dementia behaviors that are a part of the Alzheimer\u2019s disease, especially for those who are caring for people troubled by the symptoms. The goal of our project is to address service gaps and strengthen the existing service for people with dementia in Georgia.\u201d said Dr. Leisa Easom, Principal Investigator of the Alzheimer\u2019s Disease Initiative: Specialized Supportive Services Project at the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving at Georgia Southwestern State University.\nThe grant will be used to develop the Dealing with Dementia Behaviors (DDB) Caregiver Manual and accompanying training curriculum, which will disseminated to direct care workers, persons with Alzheimer\u2019s disease and Related Dementia (ADRD) living alone, those with developmental disabilities, and family caregivers. Furthermore, the project will educate and collaborate with Area Agencies on Aging, family caregivers, volunteers, and direct care work force who deal with individuals struggling with disorders exhibiting a decline in brain function such as Alzheimer\u2019s disease.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=373849", "Rep. Scott Introduces Bill to Increase Access to Psychiatric Care for Veterans", "2014-10-13", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman David Scott joined his colleague, Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-IN), to introduce H.R. 4234, the Ensuring Veterans Resiliency Act, a bipartisan bill to improve psychiatric care in military and veteran communities.\r\n \r\n\u201cToo many of American\u2019s veterans are experiencing a mental health crisis without adequate assistance from the VA.\u00a0 In Georgia, several disturbing incidents of veteran suicide have been exposed,\u201d Congressman Scott said.\u00a0 \u201cTestimony from the VA and Inspector General reports have pointed out that not enough psychiatrists are employed by the system to meet these needs.\u00a0 We can certainly improve on these hiring trends and I hope that this pilot project will bring new emphasis on attracting and maintaining psychiatrists in the system.\u201d\r\n \r\n\u201cMany of the brave men and women who have served our country are returning home without proper attention to their mental health needs,\u201d said Congressman Bucshon, M.D.\u00a0 \u201cDuring my career as a physician and my time working at the VA, I\u2019ve seen first-hand the need for new dedicated methods that encourage more psychiatrists to choose a career helping veterans. Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for this country and I firmly believe we should do everything in our power to support them. This legislation is a good first step that will help hire many qualified psychiatrists across the country to provide our veterans the assistance they need and deserve.\u201d \u00a0\r\n \r\nThe American Psychiatric Association (APA) provided their support and endorsement of H.R. 4234.\r\n \r\n\u201cThis legislation will help ensure that our nation\u2019s veterans, who often face significant mental health challenges, have access to much needed high quality mental health care,\u201d said APA President Jeffrey Lieberman, MD.\r\n \r\nAPA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, MD, MPA, added, \u201cGiven that the acute mental health needs of our veterans will be ongoing for years to come, APA strongly supports this legislation.\u00a0 APA commends Representatives Bucshon and Scott for their leadership on this issue and their commitment to ensuring the resiliency of all of our nation\u2019s veterans.\u201d\r\n \r\nBACKGROUND:\r\n \r\nThe Challenges we face:\r\n \r\n \r\n    \r\n    40% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Anxiety, depression, and substance use are widely experienced by veterans of all ages\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Approximately 6,000 veterans commit suicide each year\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    The Office of Inspector General (OIG) in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) lacks \u201ca reliable and accurate method of determining whether they are providing patients timely access to mental health services\u201d\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    OIG reports that VHA\u2019s \u201cgreatest challenge has been to hire and retain psychiatrists\u201d\u00a0\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Congressional testimony given by current and former psychiatric physicians in the VHA highlights low pay, inadequate training, and long hiring processes as key barriers to developing and maintaining a robust psychiatric workforce\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Current policy makes it extremely difficult for the VHA to compete with other Federal agencies and private entities in offering employment incentives, such as medical school loan repayment, to new hires\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    According to USAjobs.gov on September 17, 2013, there were 142 federal job vacancies for psychiatrists listed on the website.\u00a0 Of those, 138 were for the VHA and 128 were for permanent VA hires.\u00a0 Of the 128 permanent VHA positions, only 33 (25%) were eligible for medical school loan repayment\r\n    \r\n \r\n \r\nThe Ensuring Veterans Resiliency Act, increases access to mental healthcare to veterans by:\r\n \r\n \r\n    \r\n    Establishes a three-year demonstration program under the VA modeled on the Department of Defense Health Professions Loan Repayment Program, which offers physicians up to $60,000 in medical school loan repayment for each year of service.\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Authorizes the VA to recruit at least five psychiatric physicians into the loan repayment program each year. The VA would hire these physicians permanently to fill full-time vacant positions.\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Requires the program participants to demonstrate a long-term commitment to the VA\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Requires a report to Congress on the program\u2019s impact on psychiatric vacancies and recruitment.\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Authorizes a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study on pay disparities between psychiatric physicians at the VA.\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    Full text of H.R. 4234 can be accessed here.\r\n    \r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141017040014/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-mourns-loss-of-georgia-air-national-guard-and-airmen", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP MOURNS LOSS OF GEORGIA AIR NATIONAL GUARD AND AIRMEN OF ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE", "2014-10-10", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "MACON, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement lamenting the deaths of Georgia Air National Guard Senior Master Sgt. James Swartz, an aerospace propulsion superintendent with the 116th Air Control Wing; Georgia Air National Guard Master Sgt Daniel Paschal, an aerospace propulsion craftsman with the 116th ACW; and active-duty Air Force Staff Sgt. Joshua Schoenhoff, an instrument and flight control systems specialist with the 461st Air Control Wing. The three Airmen, members of the Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (J-STARS) Team, were on temporary duty at Kadena Air Base in Japan. While visiting the northwest coast of Okinawa Island, high winds swept the three airmen out to sea. All three bodies have been recovered.\n\"I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic deaths of Master Sgt. James Swartz, Master Sgt Daniel Paschal, and Staff Sgt. Joshua Schoenhoff,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cOur grateful nation's thoughts and prayers go out to their family, friends, and fellow Airmen during this difficult time of loss.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141010115646/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-perfect-record-civil-and-human-rights", "Rep. John Lewis -- Perfect Record on Civil and Human Rights", "2014-10-09", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington --Today the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR), a coalition of 200 civil rights organizations and one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country, issued its vote ratings for every member of the 113th Congress.\u00a0 The LCCR has issued the Voting Record for every Congress since 1969.\u00a0 The scores reflect positions taken by every senator and representative on matters related to legislative priorities deemed important to the advance of civil and human rights.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 House and Senate members were graded on about 20 votes taken in the 113th Congress.\u00a0 Rep. John Lewis was one of three members of the Georgia delegation to receive a perfect score.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"The Leadership Conference on Civil Rights is a premier civil rights organization with a long history and solid record of standing on the front lines to help this nation advance and transform.\u00a0 I am proud to receive this 100 percent rating and am glad there are organizations tracking voting records on civil rights issues.\u00a0 As we confront the challenges of the 21st century, it is much easier for all Americans to see that the issues of civil rights and social justice are not only relevant to minorities and the poor.\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"All Americans are affected by the state of civil rights in this country.\u00a0 From maintaining net neutrality to the mass capture of personal data, from the abuses of the mortgage foreclosure crisis to the gutting of voting rights protections, all of these challenges and more fall within the purview of civil rights.\u00a0 These problems affect not just some Americans but all Americans.\u00a0 It is important in this election year for people to know where their candidates stand on these issues.\u00a0 Through this publication, the LCCR provides the public with an important service. \"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141115210214/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-highlights-domestic-violence-awareness-month", "Rep. John Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month", "2014-10-09", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) joins millions of Americans in marking October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This is a good time to highlight the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), landmark legislation\u00a0 which included the SMART Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Awareness Act sponsored by Rep. Lewis.\u00a0 Before the passage of VAWA, domestic violence was not managed like a dangerous offense by law enforcement officers.\u00a0 VAWA sharpened their focus on the dangers of domestic violence and engaged police to deal with it as the severe threat to public safety that it is.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Despite this important legislation,\u00a0 there is still much more work to be done, as recent news involving the National Football League demonstrates. Twenty people per minute are victims of physical violence by an intimate partner in the United States.\u00a0 Nearly half of all women and one in five men experience sexual violence victimization other than rape at some point in their lives. \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"As we mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us all strive to renew our commitment to bring an end to the vicious cycle of oppression and victimization in all our relationships once and for all.\u00a0 We must admit that as a nation aggression plays too active a part of our daily lives.\u00a0 A sense of entitlement and a demand for immediate satisfaction can give rise to the worst kinds of dehumanization and abuse.\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"We need to be reminded that every human being is a spark of the divine, and everyone has the God-given right to be free, to make their own decisions, and chart their own destiny.\u00a0 We must do much more to support women, men, and children who are victimized by violence to find them safe harbor, a secure, effective environment where they can recover and heal, and the resources and services they need to re-establish an independent, violence-free life.\"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141017040027/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/advisory-usda-expands-access-to-loans-to-help-more-beginning-and-family", "ADVISORY: USDA EXPANDS ACCESS TO LOANS TO HELP MORE BEGINNING AND FAMILY FARMERS", "2014-10-07", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ALBANY, GA \u2014 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is improving farm loans by expanding and increasing lending limits to help more beginning and family farmers. USDA is simplifying the lending process by raising the borrowing limit for the microloan program from $35,000 to $50,000, simplifying lending processes, broadening the requirements of \u201cfarming experience\u201d, and expanding and updating eligibility requirements for business entities interested in loans. These changes will become effective November 7, 2014.\nSmall and mid-sized farmers will now be able to access additional $15,000 in loans using a simplified application process with up to seven years to repay. Furthermore, the expansion of eligibility will allow other types of skills such as leadership in military or advanced education in an agricultural field to be considered to meet the direct experience required in order to get the loan.\u00a0\u00a0\nThe 2014 Farm Bill has been the key in making these programs a reality. This bill has made it possible for the USDA to provide essential services such as: disaster relief to farmers and ranchers; risk management tools; expansion of access to rural credit; and funding to critical research, housing, and community facilities to help improve quality of life in rural America. For more information about the USDA\u2019s lending announcement and how it may impact beginning and family famers, visit here, here, and here.\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141010034623/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-calls-for-stategy-to-combat-hydrilla-growth-in-lake", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP CALLS FOR STATEGY TO COMBAT HYDRILLA GROWTH IN LAKE SEMINOLE", "2014-10-06", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "DONALSONVILLE, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) strongly urged the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to undertake a more proactive strategy to halt and ultimately eradicate the growth of hydrilla from Lake Seminole in Georgia. The following concerns were sent by letter to Lieutenant General Thomas Bostick, the Commanding General and Chief of Engineers of the Army Corps of Engineers.\n\u201cThe unbridled growth of hydrilla in Lake Seminole presents a major problem for the health and well-being of the lake and surrounding communities,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cTo date, the Corps of Engineers\u2019 response to the problem has not brought us closer to a solution, and I strongly urge the creation and execution of a plan that will reclaim our lake from these unwelcome weeds.\u201d\nLake Seminole\u2019s hydrilla infestation poses a serious danger to the lake\u2019s aquatic inhabitants. The weed\u2019s ability to multiply at alarmingly high speeds has enabled it to dominate the vegetation within the lake. As hydrilla grows, it gradually creates a thick, blanket-like cover near the water\u2019s surface, which drastically impedes sunlight and oxygen from reaching the lake\u2019s submerged plant life.\nThe unfettered growth of hydrilla in Lake Seminole also raises economic concerns. The dense network of hydrilla that forms near the water\u2019s surface significantly limits boat use and other forms of water recreation. Furthermore, it may lead to a decrease in property values of real-estate surrounding Lake Seminole as the recreational-related resources within the area are negatively impacted.\nIn the past, Congress has appropriated support to fund Army Corps initiatives to cut back the infestation, but during the past several years of constrained budgets, support has not been accessible to manage the overgrowth of hydrilla in Lake Seminole. To view the letter sent to Lieutenant General Bostick, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141010034639/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-advocates-for-ga-pecan-industry-s-expansion-into", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ADVOCATES FOR GA PECAN INDUSTRYS EXPANSION INTO INDIA", "2014-10-06", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, advocated for Georgia\u2019s pecan industry during a brief meeting with India\u2019s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in New York City on Sunday. After a private conversation, he gave Prime Minister Modi and his staff a letter calling for India to reduce pecan tariff rates.\n\u201cGeorgia is a major exporter of pecans,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe tariff on U.S. pecans, however, is currently an astronomical 36.26% in India, while other U.S. tree nuts enter India at a tariff rate of 10% or below. I was pleased to have had an opportunity to personally bring this situation to Prime Minister Modi\u2019s attention so that more U.S. pecans can enter India\u2019s market.\u201d\nOver the past five days, Modi made his first trip to the United States as Prime Minister of India, meeting with the President, lawmakers, business leaders, and members of the Indian Diaspora in New York City and Washington DC. After speaking to the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Modi greeted 19,000 people at a rally at Madison Square Garden. Congressman Bishop had the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Modi and advocate for the pecan industry at a diplomatic reception just prior to the Prime Minister\u2019s address to the Indian Diaspora and other official guests at Madison Square Garden.\nPecans are grown in about 15 states in the southern belt of the United States. U.S. growers produced 360 million pounds of pecans in 2012, about 45 % of which was exported to other countries. In 2013 the U.S. exported 54,923 metric tons of pecans. Georgia is the largest producer of pecans in the United States.\nTo view the letter to India\u2019s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, please click here.\n\u00a0\nThe full text of the letter is as follows:\n\u00a0\nHis Excellency Narendra Modi\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nPrime Minister of India\nSouth Block, Raisina Hill\nNew Delhi 110011\n\u00a0\nDear Prime Minister:\nThe pecan industry is very excited about the potential of exporting pecans to India. India has a dynamic economy and a long history of consuming tree nuts. The reaction of consumers in India to pecan samples distributed and pecans that have been delivered to date has been very positive. A study done by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that pecans contain more antioxidants than any other tree nut at 5,095 micromoles per ounce. In comparison, one ounce of walnuts only contains 3,846 micromoles and one ounce of almonds only contains 1,265 micromoles. The major hindrance of developing this market in India is the very high tariff placed on imported pecans.\nThough India does not produce pecans, it has levied an effective duty of 36.26% on all pecan imports and a requirement to fumigate all large incoming shipments, which adds to costs and delays. While pecan imports are burdened with this high tariff, other U.S. tree nuts enter India at a tariff rate of 10% or below.\nI respectfully ask for you to review the tariff rates placed on U.S. pecans. The U.S. pecan industry would like to continue to expand our market in India and share this delicious and healthy tree nut with India\u2019s consumers.\n\u00a0\nWith warmest regards, I remain\n\u00a0\nSincerely yours,\nSanford D. Bishop, Jr.\nMember of Congress\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141003233505/https://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-hosting-%E2%80%98when-women-succeed-america-succeeds%E2%80%99-town-hall", "Rep. Johnson hosting When Women Succeed, America Succeeds town hall", "2014-10-03", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "LITHONIA, GA \u2013 U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) is hosting \u201cWhen Women Succeed, America Succeeds\u201d town hall on Thursday, October 16, 2014 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur. The town hall will be a forum discussion on policies that address real economic needs facing women and families in the district, state and nation. \u201cWe must unleash the power of women in the workforce through equal pay for equal work, affordable child care, paid sick leave, and access to comprehensive health care and family planning,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cWhen women get paid fair, decent wages and parents can balance work and family life, America's economy will grow and more children will thrive. When women succeed, we all succeed.\u201d The discussion is expected to cover issues including pay equity, managing work and child care, the glass ceiling and gender, pregnancy discrimination and electing progressive women to office in Georgia. Pastor Cynthia Hale of Ray of Hope will open the discussion that includes Rep. Johnson, along with women panelists in the advocacy, business, human resources, legal and healthcare sectors. The event is free and open to the public. Lunch and Conversation with Congressman Henry \u201cHank\u201d Johnson Date:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Thursday, October 16, 2014  Time:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 12:30 - 2:30 PM  Where:\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ray of Hope Christian Church, 2778 Snapfinger Road., Decatur, GA 30034  RSVP:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kathy Register: 770.987.2291", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=397506", "Voter Registration and Voter ID", "2014-10-01", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Georgia voters have until October 6, to register to vote in the November 4 elections. If you moved or need to update your registration, this is the time to do that as well.\r\nFor more information about registration, visit the Georgia Secretary of State's website.\u00a0 To check on your registration status and find your polling location, visit: http://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/Do you have a valid ID\u00a0for voting? If you are unsure,\u00a0click this link to\u00a0learn more about the Voter ID\u00a0requirements.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397502", "October is Domestic Violence Month", "2014-10-01", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "October is Domestic Violence Month \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,\r\n        October 1, 2014\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Recognizing that\u00a0October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Congressman David Scott urges his constituents to take this month to educate themselves and others on the facts about these serious crimes.  \r\n\u00a0  \r\n\u201cIt is important to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month to mark the gravity and severity of the role that domestic violence plays in our society,\u201d stated Rep. David Scott.  \u201cWe should take this time to remember the victims and to rededicate ourselves to providing the resources, education, and support needed to end domestic violence.\u201d  \r\n\u00a0  \r\nThis year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Violence Against Women\u2019s Act (VAWA), which\u00a0empowered the fight against domestic violence. The law provides state and local law enforcement agencies with the resources they need to address violent crimes like domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.\u00a0Congressman Scott continued voted in favor of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act in 2013 to ensure the continuation of these vital programs.  \r\n\u00a0  \r\n\u201cThe safety and wellbeing of my constituents is of the utmost concern to me,\u201d said Rep. Scott. \u201cThe only way we can hope to end these tragedies is through awareness and education. Domestic Violence Awareness Month allows us to brings this dark subject into the light and rededicate ourselves to eradicating it\u201d  \r\n\u00a0  \r\nAnyone seeking more information about domestic violence can visit the National Network to End domestic Violence at www.nnedv.org . If you or a loved one is suffering from domestic violence you can call the U.S.  National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233.###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141003020317/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-announces-14m-cops-grant-dekalb", "Rep. Johnson announces $1.4M COPs grant for DeKalb", "2014-09-29", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "LITHONIA, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), a member of the House Judiciary Committee and ranking member of the subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law, today announced more than $1.3 million from Department of Justice\u2019s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office for DeKalb County to hire 15 officers. \u00a0 It is part of a $121.4 million COPS Hiring Program (CHP) nationwide to create and/or preserve law enforcement jobs. Grants will be made to 212 different local law enforcement agencies across the country. \u201cAs a former county commissioner, I know how critical COPs grants are in strengthening key law enforcement capabilities and providing communities with the resources they need to protect our citizens,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cI will continue to fight to maintain these important programs as a member of Congress.\u201d \u201cRep. Johnson has a long history of dedicated and committed work for public safety,\u201d said Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Public Safety Dr. Cedric Alexander. \u201cPrograms like COPs provide additional resources to improve public safety and continue building strong community relationships with the public we serve.\u201d Since 2007, Rep. Johnson \u2013 a longtime supporter of the COPS program \u2013 has helped his district receive nearly $6 million in COPS grants that were used to hire more than 45 additional police officers. In 2012, Johnson helped Newton County receive a $900,000 grant for seven additional officers. Rep. Johnson has been fighting for local funds for law enforcement since he introduced a bill in 2007 to reauthorize Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program in addition to protecting COPS funding. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140927041123/https://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-announces-928k-hhs-grant-dekalb-help-battle-chronic-diseases", "Rep. Johnson announces $928K HHS grant for DeKalb to help battle chronic diseases", "2014-09-26", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "LITHONIA, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) today announced more than $928,000 in Department of Health & Human Services grants will go to the DeKalb Board of Health to support programs aimed at preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. \u00a0 Funded in part by the Affordable Care Act, the awards will strengthen state and local programs aimed at fighting these chronic diseases, which are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States, and help lower our nation\u2019s health care costs. It is part of nearly $212 million program of grant awards that are going to all 50 states and the District of Columbia. \u201cThese grants represent progress in our work to change the health care paradigm from simply treating the sick to one that also helps keep people well,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cThe Affordable Care Act is the greatest effort in 60 years to cut the health care gap, and these HHS grants are an integral part of that strategy.\u201d\u00a0 \u00a0 The goals of the grant funding are to reduce rates of death and disability due to tobacco use, reduce obesity prevalence, and reduce rates of death and disability due to diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. \u201cTobacco use, high blood pressure, and obesity are leading preventable causes of death in the United States,\u201d said CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. \u201cThese grants will enable state and local health departments, national and community organizations, and other partners from all sectors of society to help us prevent heart disease, cancer, stroke, and other leading chronic diseases, and help Americans to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives.\u201d For more, visit HHS.gov. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140926015349/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-hank-johnson-attorney-general-eric-holder%E2%80%99s-resignation", "Rep. Hank Johnson on Attorney General Eric Holders resignation", "2014-09-25", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \ufffd\ufffd\ufffd U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA04), ranking member of the House Judiciary subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law, released the following statement on the announcement that Attorney General Eric Holder will be resigning from the Department of Justice when a successor is nominated and confirmed:\n\ufffd\ufffd\ufffdAs the ranking member of a House Judiciary subcommittee, I have had the great honor over the past few years to get to know Attorney General Holder \ufffd\ufffd\ufffd who always conducted himself to the highest professional standards. While he will be greatly missed, I congratulate Eric for his unparalleled accomplishments in civil and human rights, reforming the criminal justice system and reducing the number of federal inmates \ufffd\ufffd\ufffd especially in the face of hostile obstructionists bent on assassinating his character to score cheap political points. I wish him and his family the very best in their future endeavors.\ufffd\ufffd?\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141115210236/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-resignation-attorney-general-eric-holder", "Rep. John Lewis on Resignation of Attorney General Eric Holder", "2014-09-25", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "I am deeply saddened to learn today that the U.S. Attorney General, Eric Holder, is stepping down.\u00a0 His resignation is a great loss for any American seeking justice in our society.\u00a0 He became the symbol of fairness, an embodiment of the best in the federal government.\u00a0\n\u00a0He has been a persistent and consistent leader in the struggle for civil and human rights.\u00a0 That legacy is in his bones.\u00a0 It is written on his heart, and his intelligence and committed leadership will be hard to replace.\u00a0\n\u00a0In my conversation with him today, I thanked the Attorney General for his years of service to this nation.\u00a0 He and his family have been a blessing, and his leadership will be sorely missed.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140926034518/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-employment-of-persons-with-disabilities", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS EMPLOYMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES", "2014-09-24", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) led 57 of his colleagues in supporting increasing opportunities for the employment of persons with disabilities by co-authoring a letter requesting the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) explain their degree of adherence to the Javits-Wagner-O\u2019Day (JWOD) Act, which requires federal agencies to buy products and services from an agency employing individuals with disabilities. The AbilityOne program offers employment opportunities for nearly 50,000 individuals who are blind or have other disabilities.\n\u201cWe want to make sure federal government entities support programs that offer employment opportunities for individuals who are blind or have other disabilities,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cA thriving workforce is an inclusive workforce and it is our responsibility to make that happen.\u201d\nAs the members wrote in the letter, \u201cWe ask GSA to work with us, the AbilityOne Commission, and National Industries for the Blind to guarantee compliance with the JWOD Act and further the goal of creating long-term, stable employment for Americans who are blind or who have other significant disabilities.\u201d\nThe U.S. General Services Administration\u2019s (GSA) task is to provide equipment, supplies, telecommunications, information technology, and other services to government organizations. The JWOD Act mandates that federal government entities obtain any products or services included on the AbilityOne Program Procurement List (PL) from a nonprofit agency employing persons who are blind or have other significant disabilities as long as that product or service is available within the normal period required by that government entity. When products are on the PL and a federal agency has a need for them, those products must be purchased from the AbilityOne Program. Federal employees are prohibited from purchasing products determined to be \u201cessentially the same\u201d as products on the PL.\n\u00a0\nBelow is the full text of the sent letter: \nThe Honorable Dan M. Tangherlini\nAdministrator\nU.S. General Services Administration\nWashington, DC 20405\nDear Administrator Tangherlini:\nWe write today regarding the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)\u2019s compliance with the Javits-Wagner-O\u2019Day (JWOD) Act, which requires federal agencies to purchase specified products and services through the AbilityOne Program.\nThe AbilityOne Program offers employment opportunities for nearly 50,000 individuals who are blind or have other significant disabilities. The JWOD Act mandates that federal government entities obtain any products or services included on the AbilityOne Program Procurement List (PL) from a nonprofit agency employing persons who are blind or have other significant disabilities as long as that product or service is available within the normal period required by that government entity.\nWhen products are on the PL and a federal agency has a need for them, those products must be purchased from the AbilityOne Program. Federal employees are prohibited from purchasing products determined to be \u201cessentially the same\u201d as products on the PL.\nIn order to ensure GSA is fully aware of, and in compliance with, the AbilityOne purchase requirements mandated by the JWOD Act, we ask GSA to respond to the following questions:\n What has been the performance of GSA commercial contractors with regard to maintaining the AbilityOne mandatory status? How has GSA managed non-compliant contractors?\n\tWhat mark-up does GSA apply to AbilityOne products sold through GSA Global Supply?\n\tWhat specific policies will GSA follow to ensure that commercial contractors comply with the mandatory requirements of the AbilityOne program?\n We ask GSA to work with us, the AbilityOne Commission, and National Industries for the Blind to guarantee compliance with the JWOD Act and further the goal of creating long\u2010term, stable employment for Americans who are blind or who have other significant disabilities.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140926020143/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/rep-johnson-celebrates-hispanic-heritage-month", "Rep. Johnson celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month", "2014-09-23", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Video greeting: click HERE.\nFrom September 15th to October 15th, we as a nation come together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and recognize the contributions the Latino community has made to the foundation of America. The Latino community has important reasons to celebrate this year. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, the 10.2 million uninsured Latinos now have access to affordable, quality healthcare. Latinos also continue to lead in high-profile leadership positions in public service, as the most recent confirmation of Julian Castro as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development demonstrates. Here in our district, Jerry Gonzalez -- founding and current Executive Director of Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials (GALEO) -- has worked tirelessly to increase civic engagement and leadership of the Latino/Hispanic community across Georgia. But there is still much work to do, and while I continue to support the priorities of the Latino community, some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle refuse to work with me to solve the problems that hold our economy back from reaching its full potential. For example, it has been over a year since the Senate passed comprehensive immigration reform. Yet, Speaker Boehner has refused to allow a vote on this bill even though it has support on both sides of the aisle. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for comprehensive immigration reform that will secure our borders, unite our families and offer an earned pathway to citizenship. This month, I look forward to celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and I hope you will join me!  \n\t\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140926015454/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-announces-33m-ga-navigators-684k-local-health-centers-substance-abuse", "Rep. Johnson announces $3.3M for GA navigators; $684K for local health centers & substance abuse recovery", "2014-09-22", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman applauds HHS funds that increase access to health care for underinsured & uninsured Georgians LITHONIA, GA \u2013 U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) today announced the Department of Health & Human Services is awarding $3.3 million in grants for health care navigators in Georgia and more than $460,000 for two local community health care centers. The Rockdale County Treatment Court Collaborative also will receive more than $234,000 in Mental Health & Substance Abuse Service Grants. The funds will help Georgians sign up for health care through the Marketplace Exchanges under the Affordable Care Act, and assist community health centers that provide coverage for underinsured and uninsured constituents. Structured Employment Economic Development Corporation or SEEDCO will receive $2.1 million and Health Care Central Georgia/Community Health Works will receive $1.1 million for navigators. Oakhurst Medical Center in Stone Mountain will receive $250,000 and Four Corners Primary Care Center in Norcross will receive $210,000. Navigator funds are part of more than $60 million in grant awards to 90 organizations in states with federally facilitated and state partnership Marketplaces. These awards support preparation and outreach activities in year two of Marketplace enrollment. The community health center funds are part of $295 million for 1,195 health centers nationwide to increase access to primary care services. The Affordable Care Act funding will assist health facilities in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the Pacific Basin. \u201cHaving access to quality care when dealing with my own health issues, I think everyone deserves the right to quality, affordable healthcare,\u201d said Johnson, who fought and beat hepatitis C. \u201cCommunity health centers like Oakhurst and Four Corners \u2013 the life blood of our communities \u2013 help make that possible. In a state where Republican leaders refuse to expand Medicaid \u2013 denying more than 650,000 Georgians access to health care \u2013 funds to help our citizens sign up for affordable care or access care at a community center are crucial to the well-being and quality of life for all our citizens in Georgia.\u201d For more visit, HHS.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234107/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-releases-statement-regarding-passage-of-cr", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP RELEASES STATEMENT REGARDING PASSAGE OF CR", "2014-09-18", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop (GA-02) supported House Joint Resolution (H. J. Res.) 124, the Continuing Resolution (CR) for Fiscal Year 2015. The legislation continues funding for all government operations through December 11, 2014. The Export Import Bank of the United States will be authorized to continue operating until June 30, 2015. Also, the bill provides $88 million in additional funding to fight the Ebola virus outbreak in Western Africa. Lastly, the bill authorizes the training and equipping of vetted elements of the Syrian opposition to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). The legislation was approved by a vote of 319 to 108.\n\u201cIt is vitally important that a government shutdown be averted so crucial services provided by the government continue to be available to seniors, families, small business, veterans, and our communities in Georgia. I am pleased that this government funding bill will ensure continued operations. Once Congress returns in the fall, I look forward to working with my colleagues to return to regular order by passing all twelve full year appropriations bills.\n\u201cRegarding authorizing funding to oppose ISIL, while I prefer peace to war, of course, in order to have peace, you have to be in a position of strength. My main concern is the safety of the American people, at home and abroad, and our ability to defeat ISIL is paramount in order to neutralize them so they will no longer be a threat to our national security.\n\u201cAs the tragedy in Western Africa continues to unfold, I am hopeful that additional funding provided by the CR to the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund will be useful in stemming the spread of the disease by supporting the accelerated development of therapies for Ebola.\n\u201cLastly, if Congress did not reauthorize the Ex-Im Bank, millions of jobs will be lost as our small businesses lose their competitive edge in foreign markets. Our nation is not in a position where we can afford to lose jobs when the economy is just beginning to rebound. While today\u2019s short-term solution continues Ex-Im Bank\u2019s operations, I look forward to a long-term reauthorization so we may really claim a win for American workers, small businesses, and our rural communities.\u201d\nFor more information regarding the Continuing Resolution and its provisions, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140919004503/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-wins-two-creative-loafing-best-atlanta-awards", "Rep. John Lewis Wins Two Creative Loafing Best of Atlanta Awards", "2014-09-18", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. John Lewis won kudos in two categories in the Best of Atlanta awards, an innovation of the local Atlanta newspaper Creative Loafing.\u00a0 The 2014 awards were released today.\u00a0 The paper said this about Lewis:\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Longtime Atlanta Congressman John Lewis has had a busy year between the 50th anniversary of many Civil Rights Movement milestones and the announcement of the second installment of his bestselling civil rights-themed graphic novel memoir, March. At age 74, he manages to keep getting arrested \u2014 his 45th peaceful run-in with the law occurred in October 2013 \u2014 and continues to live up to his iconic legacy of nonviolent civil disobedience. In Washington, D.C., the congressman continues to serve his constituents well. He obtained a large affordable housing grant for homeless vets, is backing Georgia\u2019s push for marriage equality and helping to fight controversial judicial nominations. And, of course, his incredible dance moves to the tune of Pharrell Williams\u2019 \u201cHappy\u201d are something to behold.\"\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The newspaper is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, dating back to Lewis's early days in Atlanta as a member of Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee.\u00a0 Votes are cast by thousands of readers.\u00a0 Lewis was named Best Local Politician, along with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, and still holds the title of Best Local Hero.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234119/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-welcomes-results-of-blue-star-families-lifestyle", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP WELCOMES RESULTS OF BLUE STAR FAMILIES LIFESTYLE SURVEY", "2014-09-16", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), co-chair of the bi-partisan Congressional Military Family Caucus (CMFC) joined Blue Star Families at the release of their yearly Military Family Lifestyle Survey. The key concerns of military families identified from this year\u2019s survey were transition from the service, military pay, and changes to retirement benefits.\n\u201cEvery year, Blue Star Families\u2019 Military Family Lifestyle Survey just gets better and better,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cTheir survey helps us remember this one lesson\u2014Military service is about people, and often, about how those individuals sacrifice in defense of our country. How we take care of those service members and their families will determine how the most professional all-volunteer force this world has ever seen will be sustained in the future.\u201d\nBlue Star Families was formed by a group of military spouses to create a platform where military family members can join with civilian communities and leaders to address the challenges of military life. Blue Star Families includes active duty, National Guard, Reserve, wounded, transitioning service members and their families from all ranks and services, as well as supportive veterans and civilians. The Blue Star Families Military Family Lifestyle Survey takes a proactive look at the current needs and priorities of military families and service members and what can be done to support them. The goal of the survey is to provide concrete data and information about prominent aspects of the military lifestyle so that decision-makers can make informed choices on their behalf. To learn more about Blue Star Families and the survey, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234131/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-two-usdanifa-grants-for-fort-valley-state", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES TWO USDA/NIFA GRANTS FOR FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY", "2014-09-16", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "FORT VALLEY, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to announce that Fort Valley State University (FVSU) has been awarded two 1890 Capacity Building Grants from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA); $299,500 for the US-Honduras Partnerships to Strengthen Faculty and Students` Global Agricultural Research, Education, and Cultural Experiences project, as well as $149,500 for the Career Awareness and Opportunities in Agricultural Biotechnology project. Both grants will provide resources to recruit, teach, and train more students in agriculture research and biotechnology as well as increase the amount of qualified professionals pursuing careers in agricultural science.\n\u201cWell-funded research facilities are vital to keeping America a leader in research science, and so I am very grateful for these opportunities extended to Fort Valley State University to train students,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI commend the USDA and NIFA for their commitment to support academic institutions like Fort Valley State University, for this grant will assist in training the workforce for tomorrow right here in Middle and Southwest Georgia.\u201d\n\u201cThrough funding from NIFA we intend to prepare global leaders for the food and agricultural biotechnology industry,\u201d said Dr. Sarwan Dhir, Professor of Plant Biotechnology. \u201cWe will accomplish this goal by providing the right tools, training and career guidance to the target audience including K-12 students and educators of African\u2013American descent, a population that has been under exposed to these fields in the past.\u201d\nFor more information on 1890 Capacity Building Grants, please click here. For more information regarding agriculture and biochemistry research at Fort Valley State University, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234144/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-celebrates-hispanic-heritage-month-0", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH", "2014-09-16", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement today in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15:\n\u201cNational Hispanic Heritage Month is an excellent opportunity for Americans to join together in celebration of the immeasurable contributions of the Latino community to our great nation.\n\u201cLatinos have helped build America from the ground up and continue to be an integral part of the fabric of this nation, whether it is by serving in the Armed Forces, opening a small business, caring for the ill, teaching young minds, or working day-to-day to build a better life for themselves and their families.\n\u201cOur nation is one of democratic ideals and noble values and we must continue to show the world that we are an open-minded and inclusive culture that lifts up all Americans to reach their greatest potential. Every day that we don\u2019t act on immigration reform hinders our efforts to pursue enhanced innovation, greater job creation, faster economic recovery, and more secure communities.\n\u201cAs we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us look back to recognize the invaluable contributions of the Latino community, but let us also look forward to working together to keep the American dream in reach for all those who seek it.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140919005822/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/reps-johnson-labrador-introduce-bill-de-militarize-police", "Reps. Johnson, Labrador introduce bill to de-militarize police", "2014-09-16", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressmen want to reform Pentagon\u2019s 1033 Program that gives military-grade weapons to local law enforcement departments for free WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Rep. Raul Labrador (R) (ID-01) introduced the bipartisan Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5478), which would place restrictions and transparency measures on the Department of Defense (DOD) Program that transfers surplus military equipment to state and local law enforcement agencies. \u201cMilitarizing America\u2019s main streets won\u2019t make us any safer, just more fearful and more reticent,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cBefore another small town\u2019s police force gets a $750,000 gift from the Defense Department that it can't maintain or manage, it behooves us to press pause on Pentagon\u2019s 1033 program and revisit the merits of a militarized America.\u201d \u201cOur nation was founded on the principle of a clear line between the military and civilian policing,\u201d said Labrador. \u201cThe Pentagon\u2019s current surplus property program blurs that line by introducing a military model of overwhelming force in our cities and towns. Our bill would restore the focus of local law enforcement on protecting citizens and providing due process for the accused.\u201d The Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act would: -- Prevent transfers of equipment inappropriate for local policing, such as high-caliber weapons, long-range acoustic devices, grenade launchers, armed drones, armored vehicles, and grenades or similar explosives.\n-- End incentives to use equipment in circumstances when the use is unnecessary. Under the 1033 program, local police are required to use the equipment within a year, incentivizing towns to use it in inappropriate circumstances.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t-- Require that recipients certify that they can account for all equipment. In 2012, the weapons portion of the 1033 program was temporarily suspended after DOD found that a local sheriff had gifted out army-surplus Humvees and other supplies. This bill would prohibit re-gifting and require recipients to account for all equipment received from DOD. The bill adds requirements to enforce tracking mechanisms that keep up with and control transfers of the equipment, implement policies ensuring that police agencies can\u2019t surplus the equipment for resale and define drones more clearly. The Pentagon\u2019s 1033 Program permits surplus U.S. military equipment, such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs), Humvees and automatic weapons from warzones in Iraq and Afghanistan, to be transferred to municipal police departments free of charge.\u00a0 While appropriate in a war, much of this equipment is not suited for civilian law enforcement. Original co-sponsors are: Reps. John Conyers, D-MI; Jim Moran, D-VA; Justin Amash, R-MI; and Tom McClintock, R-CA.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140919013652/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/congressman-johnson%E2%80%99s-bill-preserving-historic-civil-rights-church-passes-house", "Congressman Johnsons bill preserving historic civil rights church passes House", "2014-09-16", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Bipartisan bill to determine whether West Hunter Street Church meets criteria to be National Park WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 A bipartisan bill authorizing the Department of Interior to determine whether the historic West Hunter Street Baptist Church in Atlanta meets the criteria for designation in the National Park System passed the House of Representatives on Monday. The West Hunter Street Baptist Church Study Act, proposed by Congressmen Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Austin Scott (GA-08), was signed by 77 members of Congress from both sides of the aisle. The bill now goes to the Senate for a vote. If it passes the Senate, it goes to President Obama\u2019s desk for his signature. During the Civil Rights Movement, the historic West Hunter Street Baptist Church on MLK Drive served as a headquarters for many Civil Rights workers and organizers. It was the site of many important leadership meetings and doubled as a school for nonviolent protest during initiatives such as the Voter Education Project and the Freedom Summer of 1964. It was also a spiritual refuge for the countless men and women who devoted their lives to the cause. \u201cThe history of the Civil Rights Movement is a lesson in democratic ideals,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cIt is a testimony to the strength of our Constitution, and to the courage of the American people.\u00a0 We deeply believe that it is our duty to preserve these landmarks and to share their significance with future generations.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140912215739/http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-invites-students-to-participate-in-2014-service-0", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP INVITES STUDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN 2014 SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATION PROCESS", "2014-09-12", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ALBANY, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) calls the young men and women from Georgia\u2019s 2nd Congressional District to participate in the start of the United States service academy nomination process. This year\u2019s opportunity is open to all high school students and will close on October 31, 2014.\n\u201cOnce again, I am honored to have the privilege nominating strong, extraordinary young men and women from Middle and Southwest Georgia to our nation\u2019s service academies.\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThis opportunity provides motivated students not only a chance to receive a fully-funded education from one of our nation's top universities, but to also serve America as an officer in our Armed Forces.\u201d\nThough the nomination process is competitive, top tier students from the Second Congressional District have been able to receive appointments to each of the service academies in the past. Each applicant\u2019s process begins by sending one personal letter to Congressman Bishop specifying interest in joining the academy nomination process as well as specific interest in each academy: The U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.\nEligible candidates for a Congressional nomination must be United States citizens, reside in the Georgia\u2019s Second Congressional District, and be between the ages of 17 and 22 in the year admitted. It is beneficial to begin the application process in the junior year of high school. All individuals may also pursue service academy nominations through their Senator\u2019s office. Active duty military and the National Guard can pursue nomination through their direct Commanding Officer, and individuals with parents serving on active military can also pursue a nomination through the White House.\nTo request an application packet and apply, candidates should contact Toni Pickel in the Albany office at 229-439-8067 or by email at toni.pickel@mail.house.gov. In order for applications to be reviewed and processed in a timely manner, applications must be submitted to the district office by October 31, 2014 of the student's senior year. For more information, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234207/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-denounces-potential-voter-suppression-efforts-georgia", "Rep. John Lewis Denounces Potential Voter Suppression Efforts in Georgia", "2014-09-12", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"It is unbelievable to me that the Governor Nathan Deal and a State Senator Fran Millar would advocate legislative action that would make it harder and more difficult for any person to vote. And it is not right for the Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp to suggest something is wrong with voter registration efforts that encourage Democrats or minorities to vote. These public officials are proposing to engage in a deliberate systematic attempt to suppress the vote in our state.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\"It is unreal that almost 50 years after the Voting Rights Act was signed into law, there are individuals who want to take us back to another period by suggesting that only the wealthy or those with formal education deserve to have a voice in our society. We have covered too much ground to go back to this way of thinking. Too many people suffered and died for the right to vote in this country, and those efforts opened opportunity to men without property, women, and minorities who were all disenfranchised when this nation came into being. We have come too far to turn back now.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"It should not matter whether you are black or white, Latino, Asian or Native American. The size of your wallet or the digits in your zip code should not matter.\u00a0\u00a0 We all have an equal right to participate in the democratic process. The vote is precious, almost sacred, and what these officials are suggesting should be enough reason to make sure each and every one of us goes to the polls on election day. We must not let a few silence the voices of many taxpayers and citizens of this state.\u00a0\u00a0 We should be making it simple and easier to vote in Georgia, not more difficult.\"\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It is important to note that the Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp also recently filed charges of fraud against the state Minority Leader Stacey Abrams and the New Georgia Project for voter registration efforts he alleges were fraudulent. Abrams has said she was surprised by the announcement since the Secretary of State was consulted during the process. She has won the backing of the Georgia NAACP which has questioned whether these charges are actually voter suppression efforts.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234720/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-celebrates-20th-anniversary-americorps", "Rep. John Lewis Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Americorps", "2014-09-12", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Rep. Lewis attended a gathering at the White House in honor of the 20th anniversary of Americorps.\u00a0 Americorps is a volunteer service organization\u00a0 that engages more than 75,000 Americans to assist nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country.\u00a0\n\tSince its inception in 1994, over 900,000 AmeriCorps members have given about 1.2 billion hours in service across America.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"It was a great pleasure to participate in the White House gathering with President Clinton, the National Corporation for National and Community Service, and hundreds of volunteers to commemorate this great anniversary.\u00a0 President Obama announced important initiatives today which will strengthen the Americorps program and extend its reach to agencies and people across the country.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Volunteer effort is an important part of public life.\u00a0 It requires commitment and hope for a better future, both important motivations for democratic engagement.\u00a0 When individuals put aside the comfort of their own lives and get involved in the conditions and circumstances of others, they find they not only have the opportunity to give, but they often receive even more.\u00a0 That's why Americorps is important because it provides an opportunity for citizens to come to understand aspects of our society they can only perceive in the classroom of experience.\u00a0 They can see, touch, and feel the struggles of other citizens and participate in helping to solve the challenges of our nation.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"I applaud Americorps and President Obama's decision to make it even stronger.\u00a0 I am looking forward to all it will achieve in the next 20 years.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140912044550/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-911-anniversary-0", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON 9/11 ANNIVERSARY", "2014-09-11", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement today to commemorate the 13th Anniversary of 9/11:\n\u201cThirteen years ago, a sharp pain was brought upon our homeland and changed us forever. We continue to remember the bravery of all our heroes: from the first responders, to our service members, to the strength of the everyday American. We remember the lives that were lost and our thoughts and prayers go to the families and communities who have suffered.\u201d\n\u201cThe American people are fighters and instead of cowering in fear our nation stood strong and bound together. History has shown that if anyone on the face of God\u2019s green earth can overcome challenges, it is us. As we endure combating global threats to Democracy, it is important for us to continue to stand together as a nation.\n\u201cToday, hold your family and friends close as we reflect on the experiences surrounding and following 9/11. As our great nation pushes forward, we stand by our service members, veterans, police, firefighters, and first responders both now and into the future.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918234744/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-anniversary-911", "Rep. John Lewis on the Anniversary of 9/11", "2014-09-11", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"Thirteen years have passed since the 9/11 disaster reshaped the course of American history.\u00a0 We can never forget the thousands of innocent lives that were lost on that day or the thousands of families whose future was forever changed.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"It is a day that no one who lived through it will ever forget, and looking back to that day teaches us many lessons.\u00a0 One of those lessons is that we are a nation that does endure, and when we pull together, we can overcome even the greatest tragedy and the most transformative loss.\u00a0 My prayers remain with the families and survivors in New York, Washington, DC, Virginia, and Pennsylvania who have moved forward out of necessity, but who can never recapture what they lost that day.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"A great president once said, 'There is nothing to fear but fear itself'.\u00a0\u00a0 And it was this declaration by President Roosevelt that helped to define what historians now call \u2018the greatest generation\u2019 of World War II Americans.\u00a0 They demonstrate that it is our reaction to challenge that helps define who we are.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"Today let us reflect upon our past and all the struggles we have had to survive and ultimately transmute to establish this great nation.\u00a0 And let us reflect upon what will be required of us in this generation to one day rid our nation and the world community of violence of every kind.\u00a0\u00a0 Let us use this moment of sorrow and contemplation to consider what we must give and what action we must take to help build a Beloved Community, a nation and a world that is finally at peace with itself.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140912044606/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-greets-georgia-chamber-of-commerce-at-capitol-hill", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP GREETS GEORGIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT CAPITOL HILL EVENT", "2014-09-10", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) greeted the Georgia Chamber of Commerce at their annual Capitol Hill briefing as well as introduced his friend and colleague Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (MD-05) to the delegation. The event was attended by representatives hailing from across Georgia\u2019s business community.\n\u201cCapitol Hill belongs to the people, and any day I can greet Georgians in Washington D.C. is a good day,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe Georgia Chamber\u2019s visits to the Capitol continue the dialogue between the hard working members of the Georgia business community and Congress on the issues important to us all\u2014creating jobs, reducing burdensome regulations, and strengthening the economy.\u201d\n\u201cAs so many of the decisions that impact business are made at the Federal level, we believe it is important for our Chamber to have open lines of communication with our representatives in Washington, D.C.,\u201d said Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber. \u201cOur annual Fly-In plays an important role in our relationship with the members of our delegation and we greatly appreciate Congressman Bishop\u2019s willingness not only to particulate in this event, but to always listen to the needs of Georgia\u2019s business community.\u201d\u00a0\nThe Georgia Chamber of Commerce is the state\u2019s largest business organization, and focuses on keeping, growing, and creating jobs in Georgia. The Chamber represents businesses from across all industry sectors in Georgia and serves as partners and a resource to local chambers across the state. For more information on the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, please click here. To view and download a picture from the event, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140912044621/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-fights-against-overreaching-governmental-regulations", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP FIGHTS AGAINST OVERREACHING GOVERNMENTAL REGULATIONS", "2014-09-10", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) fought against overreaching governmental regulation by supporting the passage of H.R. 5078, the Waters of the U.S. Regulatory Overreach Protection Act of 2014. The bill rights the balance between the need to protect the environment and protect the livelihoods of Georgians by prohibiting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from executing proposed rules and definitions regarding streams and waterways under the Clean Water Act:\n\u201cI believe that regulations should be put to three basic tests: be based in sound science; be based on a cost-benefit analysis; and be based on plain common sense,\u201d said Congressman Bishop \u201cIn this light, I have concerns that the EPA\u2019s proposed regulation expands the definition of navigable streams and waterways in a manner that would stretch EPA\u2019s authority beyond the intent of Congress and would have a harmful impact on Georgia\u2019s farming communities, businesses, and others whose livelihoods depend on available water resources\u2014an over-reach this bill will prevent.\u201d\nH.R. 5078 passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 262 to 152. The measure prohibits the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing either guidance or a rule proposed earlier this year that seeks to clarify the federal government's authority to regulate certain intrastate waters under the Clean Water Act, and it requires the agencies to consult with state and local officials to develop a new regulatory proposal. For more information regarding the EPA\u2019s rules, please click here and here.\nThe bill is supported by the Georgia Farm Bureau, GA Peanut Commission, the Southern Cotton Growers Association, and the National Council on Cooperatives (Southern Federation) in addition to the following list of organizations:\nAgricultural Retailers Association; Agri-Mark Inc.; American Farm Bureau Federation; American Horse Council; American Sugar Alliance; American Sugar Cane League;\u00a0 American Sugarbeet Growers Association; Association of Texas Soil & Water Conservation Districts; Corn Producers of Texas; CropLife America; Dairy Producers of Utah; Delaware-Maryland Agribusiness Association; Earth Moving Contractors Association of Texas; Exotic Wildlife Association; Forest Landowners Association; Forest Resource Association; Hardwood Federation; Idaho Dairymen; Independent Cattlemen\u2019s Association of Texas; Kansas Grain and Feed Association; Milk Producers Council; Minnesota Corn Growers Association; Missouri Agribusiness Association; Missouri Dairy Association; National Alliance of Forest Owners; National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants; National Cattleman Association; Beef Association\nNational Council of Farmer Cooperatives; National Pork Producers Council; National Sorghum Producers and the Western Peanut Growers Association; National Turkey Federation; Northeast Dairy Farmers Cooperatives: Ohio AgriBusiness Association; Public Lands Council; Riverside & Landowners Protection Coalition; Riverside & Landowners Protection Coalition; Select Milk Producers, Inc.; South Dakota Agri-Business Association; South Dakota Grain & Feed Association; South East Dairy Farmers Association; South Texans' Property Rights Association; South Texas Cotton & Grain Association; Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association; Southwest Council of Agribusiness; Texas Agricultural Land Trust; Texas Association of Agricultural Consultants; Texas Association of Dairymen; Texas Broiler Council; Texas Cattle Feeders Association; Texas Citrus Mutual; Texas Deer Association; Texas Egg Council; Texas Grain & Feed Association; Texas Grain Sorghum Association; Texas Nursery & Landscape Association; Texas Pest Management Association; Texas Pork Producers Association; Texas Poultry Federation; Texas Poultry Improvement Association; Texas Rice Producers Legislative Group; Texas Seed Trade Association; Texas Sheep & Goat Raisers Association; Texas Soybean Association; Texas Turkey Federation; Texas Vegetable Association; Texas Wheat Producers Association; Texas Wildlife Association; Turfgrass Producers of Texas; U.S. Cattlemen's Association; United Egg Producers; Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc.; USA Rice Federation; Virginia Agribusiness Council; Virginia Poultry Federation; Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas; Western United Dairymen; Wyoming Ag Business Association; Wyoming Crop Improvement Association; Wyoming Wheat Growers Association\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918235726/http://johnlewis.house.gov/press-release/rep-john-lewis-passing-chick-fil-founder-dan-cathy", "Rep. John Lewis on Passing of Chick-Fil-A Founder Truett Cathy", "2014-09-08", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"We have lost a very successful member of the Atlanta community.\u00a0 He was a winning businessman who took the tasty idea of putting seasoned chicken between two pieces of bread and created a billion-dollar restaurant chain.\u00a0 He first tried the sandwich on customers at the Dwarf Grill in Hapeville.\u00a0 When he realized it was a hit, he built the first Chick-Fil-A in an Atlanta mall in 1967.\u00a0 Since then his sales have surpassed those of Kentucky Fried Chicken, an American fast-food standard, and he has spread 1800 franchises all across the United States.\n\"Many young people found their first jobs in his restaurants, and he encouraged them to pursue a college education.\u00a0 Despite, Cathy's own struggles as a student, his organization has awarded nearly $1.4 million in 4-year college scholarship awards and more than $30 million in leadership training for his employees.\n\"His willingness to invest in the betterment of his employees enriched each community where his restaurants are located and created a legacy that will last for generations.\u00a0 Truett Cathy was a respected corporate citizen who did not forget the people who contributed their time and service to help make his success.\u00a0 He will be missed.\"\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=392392", "Congressman David Scott Invites High School Seniors to  Apply for Military Service Academies", "2014-09-04", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) announced that applications are available for students interested in receiving a congressional nomination to one of the U.S. Military Academies.\u201cThe privilege of nominating qualified students to the United States Air Force, Military, Merchant Marine, and Naval Academies is one of my most important and rewarding responsibilities,\u201d said Congressman Scott. \u201cThe education provided at our nation\u2019s prestigious service academies is of the highest quality and offers challenges that develop our young people into future leaders.\u201d To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, an applicant must be nominated from an authorized person, including a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives or Senate.\u00a0 Applicants must also meet the following requirements as of July 1 of the year of admission to a service academy: be at least 17 years old and not older than 23; a U.S. citizen; a legal resident of Georgia\u2019s Thirteenth Congressional District; unmarried; not pregnant; and have no legal obligation to support children or other dependents. Interested students should complete a Congressional Nomination Application available on Congressman Scott\u2019s website at www.house.gov/davidscott.\u00a0 All completed applications must be received no later than Friday, October 31, 2014 in Congressman Scott\u2019s Jonesboro Office.\u00a0  For more information or to obtain the nomination application by mail, please call Teresa Cooke in Scott\u2019s Jonesboro Office at 770-210-5073.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=392391", "Douglas Neighbor: GODS WORK Congressman credits collaboration for roadway start", "2014-09-03", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Bill BaldowskiDistrict 13 U.S. Rep. David Scott, D-Jonesboro, said he views the Ga. Hwy. 92 relocation project in Douglasville as another example of \u201cGod\u2019s work.\u201d In his address before more than 250 people attending last Friday\u2019s groundbreaking ceremony for the project at Jessie Davis Park, Scott said the amount of cooperation and teamwork needed by Douglasville and Douglas County officials as well as state and national leaders to bring the project to fruition could not have been done unless, as he termed it, \u201cGod was in control.\u201d \u201cWhen you do God\u2019s work, you bring everyone together,\u201d he said. Scott was one of nine speakers to address the crowd on hand to see the ceremonial groundbreaking for the project. The relocation portion for Hwy. 92 will be a 3.1-mile project which will include six lanes with acceleration and deceleration capabilities and state-of-the-art signalization technology at key intersections. The most unique feature of the project, however, will be the underpass beneath the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks, Bankhead Highway and Strickland Street, said city of Douglasville spokesperson Kellie Hunter. \u201cThe underpass will provide seamless connectivity for daily commuters and emergency vehicles,\u201d Hunter said. Most importantly, the underpass will provide Douglasville and Douglas County emergency responders easy access to WellStar Douglas Hospital, she said. Douglasville Mayor Harvey Persons called the Hwy. 92 relocation project an event that had been in the making for 30 years. Persons said when construction is completed as scheduled in 2018, Douglasville will have available \u201ca greatly needed, and long-awaited, six-lane highway running north-south through our city, which will include our community\u2019s first grade-separation railroad crossing.\u201d Persons echoed Scott\u2019s belief that collaboration was the key to the transportation project. Although the congressman said he appreciated the accolades he had received in bringing this project to reality, he said he had \u201ca whole lot of help from many individuals, including Georgia\u2019s congressional delegation, in moving this project from a vision to what we are celebrating here today, its reality.\u201d \u201cWe are standing here on the big shoulders of those who came before us and sustained this vision,\u201d Scott said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140905041724/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-ex-im-bank-vice-chair-felton-visit-swift-spinning", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP, EX-IM BANK VICE CHAIR FELTON VISIT SWIFT SPINNING", "2014-09-03", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "COLUMBUS, GA \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) joined Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im) Vice President and Vice Chair Wanda Felton for a roundtable discussion and tour of Swift Spinning in Columbus, Georgia.\n\u201cThere are some 4,000 jobs that are directly related to the support that the Ex-Im Bank gives here in the Second District alone and there are millions of jobs that the bank supports nationwide,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIf Congress does not reauthorize the Ex-Im Bank, these jobs will be lost and we certainly are not in a position where we can afford to lose jobs when the economy is just beginning to rebound. It is my hope that reasonable minds will come together and recognize that the Ex-Im Bank is a win-win for American workers, small businesses, and our rural communities.\u201d\nHeadquartered in Columbus, Georgia, Swift Spinning produces cotton rings of spun yarn. After buying bulk cotton directly from the producers, the mill uses 32,640 spindles to produce 350,000 lbs. of spun cotton rings of yarn every week. Swift Spinning 100% cotton yarn is used to make three types of products; hosiery (socks), specialty weaving goods, and high end knitted apparel. Shipped domestically and internationally, Swift Spinning\u2019s sale of cotton yarn contributes to international trade through its export of yarn in addition to supporting jobs in auxiliary industries here in the United States.\n\u201cSwift Spinning is a strong advocate for reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank, whose charter currently expires on September 30,\u201d said Trey Hodges, President and CEO of Swift Spinning. \u201cEx-Im is a critical tool in our business model for credit insurance as we do business in Central America and Mexico. Due to larger credit lines and the name recognition of the U.S. government that Ex-Im bank brings to the table, these two factors have allowed our company to grow our business outside the US exponentially. We believe that our export business would suffer immediately if Ex-Im is not available.\u201d\nThe Ex-Im Bank, a wholly owned U.S. government corporation, is the official export credit agency (ECA) of the United States and finances and facilitates U.S. exports of goods and services while supporting U.S. employment. The agency is set to expire on September 30, 2014 unless Congress reauthorizes its charter. Swift Spinning is one of the many companies and small businesses that receive assistance through the Ex-Im Bank, which allows it to support jobs and compete overseas.\n\u201cThe Ex-Im Bank ensures that, all things being equal, American companies have the ability to win sales and grow sales outside of these borders based on merit,\u201d said Wanda Felton, First Vice President and Vice Chair of the Export-Import Bank. \u201cThe Ex-Im Bank is a self-sufficient, self-sustaining government agency and we are careful and prudent in the way we manage the taxpayer dollar to the tune that we were able to return $2 billion over the past five years to the U.S. Treasury. Frankly, playing with every tool we\u2019ve got to beat the competition is important because that\u2019s how businesses grow and thrive and how we will drive job growth in this country in the future.\u201d\n\u201cLetting the Ex-Im Bank expire would be penny-wise and pound-foolish,\u201d continued Congressman Bishop. \u201cJob creation at Swift Spinning, and other companies where Ex-Im financing is utilized, is where the rubber meets the road, and if we want to have the American economy fully recover and expand, Ex-Im Bank is the kind of self-sufficient government agency we ought to be supporting.\u201d\nIn the Second Congressional District from 2013 to 2014, the Export-Import Bank reported that it authorized $45 million in direct loans, loan guarantees, working capital finance, and export credit insurance. It further reported that $89 million has been disbursed to support the export of goods and services over this time period. The total value of the exports that these funds have supported is $426 million. Ex-Im financing went to four exporters, all of which are small businesses. In addition to Swift Spinning in Columbus, other recipients include; Thrush Aircraft in Albany; Master Wall, Inc. in Midland; and Easterlin Pecan Company in Montezuma.\nFor more information regarding Swift Spinning, please click here. For more information on the Export-Import Bank, please click here. To view and download a picture from the visit, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140905041740/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-78254-jag-award-to-macon-bibb-county", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $78,254 JAG AWARD TO MACON-BIBB COUNTY", "2014-09-03", "2014", "2014-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Macon, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to announce that Macon-Bibb County has received a FY14 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) award totaling $78,254 from the U.S. Department of Justice. The award will allow Macon-Bibb County to purchase law enforcement equipment as well as provide education and supervision services for the Drug Court Outreach program.\n\u201cFunding from the JAG grant goes the distance to assist county and municipality based law enforcement get drugs off the street,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cAdditionally, I am grateful for this opportunity extended to Macon-Bibb County to continue to provide individuals and families in the Drug Court programs access to the treatment and services they need to recover and lead successful lives.\u201d\nThe Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) assists state and local governments in supporting a wide range of activities to prevent and control crime. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice. For more information on JAG grants, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140829025301/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/stop-police-militarization", "Stop police militarization", "2014-08-28", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "As seen in the Atlanta-Journal Constitution: http://on-ajc.com/1lhRBWk\nThe overwhelming militarized response of St. Louis-area police forces to protests over the shooting death of an unarmed black teenager is an overdue wake-up call.\nImages we saw coming out of Ferguson, Mo., were breathtaking. Americans saw firsthand what militarization of our police departments looks and feels like. With the streets of Ferguson looking like a war zone, police officers took on the look of soldiers clad in camouflage and riot gear as they aimed their assault weapons at peaceful demonstrators from the turret of an armored personnel carrier.\nSince the 1990s, the Department of Defense has transferred $4.3 billion in military equipment to local police agencies under what\u2019s called the 1033 Program. Any local law enforcement agency that wants military-grade equipment and weapons simply has to fill out a one-page form with a wish list of whatever surplus equipment is listed on a federal website. Once approved, a police department can acquire the equipment free of charge if picked up within 14 days.\nThese tools of war can be acquired without the knowledge or consent of the local governing authority, with its taxpayers ultimately responsible for maintenance, insurance and repairs of this expensive military equipment that a city or county may neither want nor need.\nWhat we saw in Ferguson could happen in any city or town. Unless Americans want their main streets patrolled in ways that mirror a war zone, we should all be concerned.\nWhile I applaud President Barack Obama for reviewing the 1033 Program in the wake of Ferguson, I\u2019ve been calling for a review since March. I\u2019m introducing bipartisan legislation to reform the program before our civilian police militarize any further.\nThe program lacks meaningful oversight and accountability. We need an honest debate on the type of surplus military-grade weaponry that is appropriate for transfer to our streets.\nMy legislation will ban the free transfer of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, other armored personnel carriers, armored drones, assault weapons greater than .50 caliber, silencers and certain aircraft. It will also ensure that the Defense Department undertakes an annual accounting of what\u2019s been transferred, by whom and to whom, to prevent military items from being auctioned on eBay or sold to the highest bidder.\nFerguson is not alone in having a militarized police force. There are countless stories of police departments getting (and later selling) assault weapons, drones and other military-grade equipment ill-suited for America\u2019s main streets.\nThe Columbia, S.C., Police Department, for example, received a free MRAP vehicle from the Pentagon that otherwise would have cost Columbia nearly $700,000 The city is responsible for all repairs and upkeep going forward.\nColumbia is not alone. The Roanoke Rapids, N.C., Police Department acquired Humvees and MRAPs, proudly displaying them at a car show. Roanoke Rapids got them free from the Pentagon, as did localities across America, including Texas\u2019s McLennan and Dallas counties; Idaho\u2019s Boise and Nampa; and Indiana\u2019s West Lafayette, Merrillville and Madison, among others.\nEven here in DeKalb County, my guess is that citizens might be surprised to know that our local police force has an MRAP and more than 50 assault rifles from the program, according to The New York Times.\nWe recognize that \u201cwe\u2019re not in Kansas anymore.\u201d But are MRAPs really needed in small-town America? Are improvised explosive devices, grenade launchers, mines, silencers and other war-typical attacks really happening in Roanoke Rapids or Doraville?\nNo.\nIt behooves us to press pause on the Pentagon\u2019s 1033 program and revisit the merits of a militarized America before another small town\u2019s police force gets a $700,000 gift from the Defense Department that it can\u2019t maintain or manage and can acquire without proper local government oversight.\nU.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, a Georgia Democrat, is a member of the House Armed Services and Judiciary Committees. Michael Shank, associate director for legislative affairs at the Friends Committee on National Legislation, contributed to this article.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918235739/http://johnlewis.house.gov/event/2014-us-service-academy-forum", "2014 U.S. Service Academy Forum", "2014-08-27", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "2014 U.S. Service Academy Forum \n Saturday, 13 September 2014, 11:00 am -1:00pm \n \u00a0 \n \n\tGeorgia Power Auditorium \n 241 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 \n \n\tU.S. Service Academies Provide a\u00a0No Cost 4 Year College Education \n\u00a0\n\n\tCome hear representatives from:\n\u00a0\n U.S. Coast Guard Academy\u00a0\n  U.S. Merchant Marine Academy\n \u00a0\nIf you have any questions or for further information, contact Congressman Lewis\u2019 office on (404) 659-0116.\n\n\tTo download a copy of the requirements and an application, please visit: http://johnlewis.house.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918235752/http://johnlewis.house.gov/event/intern-opportunity-day-0", "Intern Opportunity Day", "2014-08-27", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Intern Opportunity Day                        \n         \t  \nStart: \n         \t  September 5, 2014 10:00 am\n\n         \t   \n         \t           \t\n                                          \n              Aug 27, 2014      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n          \n  \n    \n     Intern Opportunity Day \n Office of Congressman John Lewis \n 100 Peachtree Street NW Ste 1920 \n Friday, September 5, 2014 \n 10am to 4pm \n \u00a0 \n We will be conducting walk- in interviews on a first come, first served basis for unpaid internships in the Congressional offices of U.S. Representative John Lewis. \n Requirements: \n \n\uf0d8 College Student or High School Senior\n \n \n\uf0d8 Reside or attend school in Georgia\u2019s 5th Congressional District\n \n \n\uf0d8 Available at least 8 hours per week\n \n \n\uf0d8 Available for 3 to 6 months\n \n Bring 2 copies of your resume along with 2 writing samples. \n Email Ruth.Riley@mail.house.gov with any questions.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140912044706/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-ex-im-bank-vice-chair-felton-emphasize-jobs-in", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP, EX-IM BANK VICE CHAIR FELTON EMPHASIZE JOBS IN ROUNDTABLE & TOUR OF THRUSH AIRCRAFT", "2014-08-26", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ALBANY, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) joined Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im) Vice Chair Wanda Felton for a roundtable discussion and tour of Thrush Aircraft in Albany, Georgia. The Ex-Im Bank, a wholly owned U.S. government corporation, is the official export credit agency (ECA) of the United States and finances and facilitates U.S. exports of goods and services while supporting U.S. employment. The agency is set to expire on September 30, 2014 unless Congress reauthorizes it. Thrush Aircraft is one of the many companies and small businesses that receive assistance through the Ex-Im Bank, which allows it to support jobs and compete overseas.\n\u201cThere are some 4,000 jobs that are directly related to the support that the Ex-Im Bank gives here in the Second District alone and there are millions of jobs that the bank supports nationwide,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIf Congress does not reauthorize the Ex-Im Bank, these jobs will be lost and we certainly are not in a position where we can afford to lose jobs when the economy is just beginning to rebound. It is my hope that reasonable minds will come together and recognize that the Ex-Im Bank is a win-win for American workers, small businesses, and our rural communities.\u201d\n\u201cThe Ex-Im Bank ensures that, all things being equal, American companies have the ability to win sales and grow sales outside of these borders based on merit,\u201d said Ex-Im Bank Vice Chair Felton. \u201cThe Ex-Im Bank is a self-sufficient, self-sustaining government agency and we are careful and prudent in the way we manage the taxpayer dollar to the tune that we were able to return $2 billion over the past five years to the U.S. Treasury. Frankly, playing with every tool we\u2019ve got to beat the competition is important because that\u2019s how businesses grow and thrive and how we will drive job growth in this country in the future.\u201d\n\u201cAt Thrush Aircraft, we have 180 jobs right now and we will soon be creating another product line and adding more jobs,\u201d said Thrush Aircraft President Payne Hughes. \u201cThe jobs are right here but the products will go overseas. Our business is growing and Ex-Im is a vital part of our growth and our banking.\u201d\n\u201cThrush\u2019s plane has been a greatly sought-after product and to have it produced by American workers right here in the Second District is a really good opportunity for us,\u201d continued Congressman Bishop. \u201cThis is why letting the Ex-Im Bank expire would be penny-wise and pound-foolish. This is where the rubber meets the road in the terms of jobs and the economy and if we want to have the American economy fully recover and expand, this is the kind of self-sufficient government agency that we ought to be supporting.\u201d\nIn the Second Congressional District from 2013 to 2014, the Export-Import Bank reported that it authorized $45 million in direct loans, loan guarantees, working capital finance, and export credit insurance. It further reported that $89 million has been disbursed to support the export of goods and services over this time period. The total value of the exports that these funds have supported is $426 million. Ex-Im financing went to four exporters, all of which are small businesses. In addition to Thrush Aircraft in Albany, other recipients include Swift Spinning in Columbus; Master Wall, Inc. in Midland; and Easterlin Pecan Company in Montezuma.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140912044720/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-and-labor-secretary-perez-host-roundtable-discussion", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP AND LABOR SECRETARY PEREZ HOST ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION ON TAACCCT GRANTS", "2014-08-25", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ATLANTA, GA \u2013 On Friday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) and U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez hosted a Roundtable Discussion at Georgia Power Company in Atlanta, Georgia with state and local Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) stakeholders. TAACCCT grants are competitive grants awarded to institutions of higher education to support the development, offering, and improvement of career training programs that can be completed in two years or less, and prepare program participants for employment in high-wage, high-skill occupations.\nThe roundtable\u00a0participants\u00a0included principle stakeholders in the TAACCCT programs developed by Albany Technical College and Central Georgia Technical College, which focus on healthcare and industrial technology and foster partnerships between the school and employers in these industries.\u00a0 The roundtable discussion primarily focused on veterans within the targeted population.\n\u201cEveryone at this roundtable is dedicated to preparing the men and women of America for the present and future challenges of our job force,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cRight in line with our mission, these grants help technical colleges better prepare adults for high-wage, high-demand employment fields locally here in Georgia, and across the United States.\u201d\nThe discussion was teleconferenced to Albany Technical College and Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC) and was kicked off by a virtual interactive tour of Albany Tech\u2019s classroom where students demonstrated the steering mechanism for a manpowered vehicle they designed for the NASA Rover Challenge. Presentations were then made by Albany Tech President Dr. Anthony Parker; CGTC President Dr. Ivan Allen; Georgia Power Company Project Executive Henry Kelly; Houston Healthcare Executive Director of Human Resources Linda Watson; Phoebe Putney Health System President/CEO Joel Wernick; Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission President Justin Strickland; Georgia Department of Economic Development Workforce External Relations Director Jamie Jordan and Director of Programs Kristin Laarhoven; and Wounded Warrior Project Warriors to Work Director Alex Powers. The discussion was moderated by CGTC Director for Global Initiatives Rick Hutto.\n\u201cThe TAACCCT Grant has afforded Albany Tech the benefit of having achievement coaches in Engineering Technology on staff, who work in conjunction with faculty to assist students in enrollment, retention, and completion,\u201d said Dr. Anthony O. Parker, President of Albany Technical College. As part of the grant consortium, Albany Technical College has led the way in assisting\u00a0individuals with prior work experience or education credits in an effort to shorten the time to completion, specifically for individuals such as military occupational specialties, industry certificates, and corporate training.\n\u201cCentral Georgia Technical College is proud to be a higher education partner in the middle Georgia region,\u201d said Deborah Burkes, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness at Central Georgia Technical College. \u201cCGTC provides opportunities for citizens to improve their skills and knowledge to better prepare them for the workforce. As a part of the College\u2019s commitment to completion and to its communities served, we were pleased to share our pilot program results and our future goals for this initiative with Secretary Perez. We are eager about the activities that we are undertaking to improve Georgia\u2019s workforce and the impact this program will have on our students and employers.\u201d\u00a0\n\"Georgia Power welcomes Labor Secretary Perez and Congressman Bishop, as well as Georgia education and business leaders, for this important roundtable discussion,\u201d said Scott Orr, Federal Legislative Affairs Coordinator at Georgia Power. \u201cWe are committed to developing the workforce of tomorrow through strong relationships with the state's universities and technical colleges, as well as innovative classroom programs such as Learning Power. Continued collaboration between business, government and education is absolutely critical as Georgia's economy grows and our students develop the skills necessary to succeed in careers at Georgia Power and other leading companies.\"\n\u201cToday\u2019s event was a great step forward by the Congressman and certainly the Secretary in trying to be sensitive to the value of employable jobs here in Southwest Georgia and I think their efforts together continue to create opportunity where there hasn\u2019t been opportunity in the past, \u201c said Joel Wernick, President/CEO of Phoebe Putney Health System.\n\u201cI am proud to tout the positive effects resulting from the collaboration between Albany Tech, CGTC, and their employer partners,\u201d concluded Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am pleased Secretary Perez could join us today and witness firsthand the deep commitment that federal, state, and local entities, the business community, and veteran service organizations hold for this cause.\u201d\nBorn and raised in a military family outside of Buffalo, New York, Secretary Perez has a long and distinguished career in public service. He has served as assistant attorney general in Maryland, Secretary of Maryland\u2019s Department of Labor, and a law professor. He was nominated by President Barack Obama and sworn in as the U.S. Secretary of Labor on July 23, 2013. As part of a pre-Labor Day tour, Secretary Perez spent the day in Atlanta, where he spoke at the Loudermilk Center earlier that day.\nFor more information on TAACCCT grants, please click here. A picture from Friday\u2019s roundtable is attached; to view and download the picture online, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140822023228/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/reps-johnson-butterfield-lanzan-caucus-para-la-expansi%C3%B3n-de-medicaid-en-los-estados", "Reps. Johnson, Butterfield lanzan Caucus para la Expansin de Medicaid en los Estados", "2014-08-21", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congresistas a llamar la atenci\u00f3n sobre las razones presupuestarias, econ\u00f3micas, morales y de salud para que los estados expandan Medicaid bajo la Ley de Cuidado de Salud Asequible\nWASHINGTON, DC -. Hoy, Reps Hank Johnson (GA-04) y GK Butterfield (NC-01), junto con m\u00e1s de 30 colegas de la C\u00e1mara, anunciaron la formaci\u00f3n del Caucus para la expansi\u00f3n de Medicaid en los Estados. Los miembros del Caucus destacar\u00e1n la necesidad de que los Estados recalcitrantes expandan Medicaid a trav\u00e9s de pronunciamientos en la plenaria de la C\u00e1mara, columnas de opini\u00f3n, mensajes en los medios sociales y discusiones con otros colegas y constituyentes. \"La expansi\u00f3n de Medicaid garantizar\u00e1 el acceso a la atenci\u00f3n m\u00e9dica para millones de estadounidenses de bajos recursos\", dijo Johnson. \"Ofrecer\u00e1 la tranquilidad de un seguro de salud para trabajadores quienes luchan para llegar a fin de mes. Y tambi\u00e9n traer\u00e1 miles de millones de d\u00f3lares a la econom\u00eda de cada uno de los estados en donde trabajadores tendr\u00e1n garantizado seguro de salud y podr\u00e1n ver los beneficios que esto les traer\u00e1. Las personas que se beneficiar\u00e1n de la ampliaci\u00f3n de Medicaid no son menos merecedores de recibir atenci\u00f3n la salud que cualquier otra persona \". \"La decisi\u00f3n de Veinticuatro estados de no aceptar miles de millones de d\u00f3lares en ayuda federal desaf\u00eda la l\u00f3gica y se probar\u00e1 catastr\u00f3fico para la mismas personas a las que programa de Medicaid est\u00e1 destinado a ayudar\", dijo el representante Butterfield. \"El p\u00fablico est\u00e1 exigiendo acci\u00f3n en los estados que no han expandido el programa y miembros del Caucus por la expansi\u00f3n de Medicaid en los Estados est\u00e1n cansados de la inacci\u00f3n. Vamos a seguir presionando en este tema hasta que todos los 50 estados hayan ampliado Medicaid\u201d. Los miembros fueron acompa\u00f1ados por representantes de grupos de defensa de la salud, incluyendo: Familias EE.UU.; Centro de Presupuesto y Prioridades Pol\u00edticas; Coalici\u00f3n en las necesidades humanas; la Asociaci\u00f3n Cat\u00f3lica de Salud de los Estados Unidos; y el Centro de Georgetown para Ni\u00f1os y Familias.\nMiembros: Johnson (GA, Co-Chair), Butterfield (Co-Chair), Wilson (FL), Sewell (AL), Hastings (FL), Garcia (FL), Grayson (FL), Pocan (FL), Brown (FL), Deutch (FL), Schwartz (PA), Scott (GA), Lewis (GA), Grijalva (AZ), Bishop (GA), Jackson Lee (TX), Cohen (TN), Green (TX), Clyburn (SC), Castor (FL), Wasserman Schultz (FL), Pingree (ME), Murphy (FL), Connolly (VA), Frankel (FL), Michaud (ME), Price (NC), Moran (VA), Clay (MS), Green (TX), Doggett (TX); Moore (WI), Richmond (LA), Waxman (CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140822023242/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/rep-johnson-anuncia-16-millones-para-ayudar-personas-sin-hogar", "Rep. Johnson anuncia $ 16 millones para ayudar a personas sin hogar", "2014-08-21", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC - El Congresista Hank Johnson (GA-04) anunci\u00f3 hoy m\u00e1s de $ 16 millones en subsidios de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano (HUD) para proporcionar vivienda permanente y transitoria a las personas sin hogar y sus familias en el Cuarto Distrito del Congreso de Georgia. Las becas son para desarrollo de Subsidios comunitarios (CDBG); Subsidios para Refugios de Emergencia (ESG); subsidios para hogar y de Atenci\u00f3n Continua (CoC). \u00a0El distritito Cuarto y distritos vecinos, los que incluyen los distritos del Congreso 5 y 6, han recibido $ 11.5 millones en CDBGs, $ 3.3 millones en subsidios para hogar, m\u00e1s de $ 1 mill\u00f3n en centros de competencia y m\u00e1s de $ 900,000 en ESGs. De los $ 16 millones, el condado de DeKalb recibi\u00f3 m\u00e1s de 6.8 millones d\u00f3lares y Reurbanizaci\u00f3n Progresiva Inc. (the Progressive Redevelopment Inc) en Decatur recibi\u00f3 m\u00e1s de $ 177,000 para combatir la falta de hogar. \"Estos subsidios son la sangre vital de nuestros esfuerzos para poner fin al problema de personas sin hogar y ayudar a aquellos quienes experimentan la falta de vivienda a largo plazo, as\u00ed como las familias quienes enfrentan una crisis econ\u00f3mica repentina\", dijo Johnson. \"A medida que nuestra econom\u00eda contin\u00faa recuper\u00e1ndose, debemos asegurarnos de que todos - sin importar sus circunstancias - se beneficien de nuestros esfuerzos\" - El programa de CDBG proporciona subsidios anuales a los estados y los gobiernos locales para garantizar una vivienda decente y asequible para los m\u00e1s vulnerables en nuestras comunidades; y para empleos a trav\u00e9s de la expansi\u00f3n y la retenci\u00f3n de las empresas.  \n\t- El programa ESG ofrece becas anuales para los refugios de emergencia, la rehabilitaci\u00f3n y transformaci\u00f3n de edificios para ser utilizados como refugios de emergencia, el funcionamiento de los refugios de emergencia y servicios de prevenci\u00f3n para la falta de hogar.  \n\t- Premios CoC promueven el compromiso de toda la comunidad con el objetivo de poner fin a la falta de vivienda; proporciona fondos para los esfuerzos de organizaciones sin fines de lucro y los gobiernos estatales y locales para proporcionar vivienda en poco tiempo a personas y familias sin hogar para minimizar el trauma y la separaci\u00f3n. - Los Fondos para Hogar ayudan a ampliar la oferta de vivienda digna y asequible para familias de bajos y/o con ingresos muy bajos.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140822023257/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/congresista-johnson-exige-voto-para-la-reforma-integral-de-inmigraci%C3%B3n", "Congresista Johnson exige voto para la reforma integral de inmigracin", "2014-08-21", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Firma petici\u00f3n de dem\u00f3cratas de la C\u00e1mara '\"Exigiendo el voto\u201d \u00a0para forzar votaci\u00f3n en la Legislaci\u00f3n de Reforma Bipartidista\nWASHINGTON, DC -. Con los republicanos bloqueando votaci\u00f3n para la legislaci\u00f3n de reforma migratoria integral bipartidista, Rep Johnson tom\u00f3 medidas para forzar el voto firmando en la plenaria de la C\u00e1mara el d\u00eda de hoy la petici\u00f3n \u201cExigiendo el voto\u201d.\u00a0 La petici\u00f3n obligar\u00eda a una votaci\u00f3n de HR 15, \u00a0Seguridad Fronteriza, Oportunidad Econ\u00f3mica y Ley de Modernizaci\u00f3n de Inmigraci\u00f3n.\u00a0 La legislaci\u00f3n bipartidista ayudar\u00eda a asegurar nuestra frontera, proteger\u00eda a nuestros trabajadores, unir\u00eda a nuestras familias, proporcionar\u00eda un camino hacia la ciudadan\u00eda y crear\u00eda empleos. \"Hoy, estoy exigiendo la votaci\u00f3n de la reforma migratoria integral\", \u00a0dijo el representante Johnson. \"Es hora de que Speaker Boehner detenga el bloqueo de esta sensible reforma bipartidista y permita un voto para generar empleos, potenciar nuestras peque\u00f1as empresas, la innovaci\u00f3n de combustible, reducir el d\u00e9ficit y dinamizar la econom\u00eda. Ha llegado el momento de arreglar nuestro sistema migratorio roto y construir un sistema que respete nuestra historia y nuestros valores como naci\u00f3n\u201d. Han pasado casi nueve meses desde que el Senado aprob\u00f3 su propia reforma migratoria integral por un margen bipartidista de 68-32. La reforma migratoria integral ha gozado de amplio apoyo de instituciones encargadas del orden p\u00fablico y cumplimiento de la ley, l\u00edderes religiosos, la comunidad empresarial y el pueblo estadounidense. Un informe de la Oficina de Presupuesto del Congreso publicado el martes hall\u00f3 que la legislaci\u00f3n de la C\u00e1mara, HR 15, reducir\u00eda el d\u00e9ficit en $ 900 mil millones en los pr\u00f3ximos dos decenios - incluyendo $ 200 en el primer decenio. El proyecto de ley tiene 200 copatrocinadores, entre ellos 3 republicanos. Sin embargo, el liderazgo republicano sigue impidiendo a la Casa de Representantes votar esta legislaci\u00f3n popular y necesaria. Hoy, representantes dem\u00f3cratas est\u00e1n lanzando una plataforma nueva - Dems.gov/TimeIsNow - donde cualquiera puede a\u00f1adir su nombre a la lista en apoyo a la petici\u00f3n #DemandAVote para forzar a la C\u00e1mara a tomar medidas para arreglar nuestro sistema de inmigraci\u00f3n roto.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140822022108/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/hank-seeks-cosponsors-bill-de-militarize-police", "Rep. Johnson seeks cosponsors for bill to de-militarize police", "2014-08-20", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman wants to reform Pentagon\u2019s 1033 Program that gives military-grade weapons to local law enforcement departments for free\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced he is seeking bipartisan support for his bill, the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014, which would place restrictions and transparency measures on the Department of Defense (DOD) Program that transfers surplus military equipment to state and local law enforcement agencies.\nRead Rep. Johnson's op-ed in The USA Today in March, 2014 on this issue | To see what what your local police received free from the DOD, click HERE.\nThe Pentagon\u2019s 1033 Program permits surplus U.S. military equipment, such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs), Humvees and automatic weapons from warzones in Iraq and Afghanistan, to be transferred to city police departments free of charge. While these military-grade weapons are much-needed by our military on the field of battle, Rep. Johnson recognizes that they are of no use to city police departments whose purpose is to protect American civilians.\nRep. Johnson\u2019s bill will also add requirements to enforce tracking mechanisms that keep up with and control transfers of the equipment, implement policies ensuring that police agencies can\u2019t sell as surplus the equipment they receive under the program and define drones more clearly.\n\u201cMilitarizing America\u2019s main streets won\u2019t make us any safer, just more fearful and more reticent. Before another small town's police force gets a $700,000 gift from the Defense Department that it can't maintain or manage, it behooves us to press pause on Pentagon's 1033 program and revisit the merits of a militarized America,\u201d said Johnson.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140822022136/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/rep-johnson-announces-46m-help-local-homeless-veterans", "Rep. Johnson announces $4.6M to help local homeless veterans", "2014-08-19", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman: Local agencies receive federal funds to help get homeless veterans off streets LITHONIA, GA \u2013 U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) today announced four Atlanta-based groups will receive more than $4.6 million from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to fight veterans\u2019 homelessness. United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, Action Ministries Inc., Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta Inc., and Decatur Cooperative Ministry Inc. will receive a share of funds to provide services to very low-income veteran families living in \u2013 or transitioning to \u2013 permanent housing in the Fourth District and throughout metro Atlanta. \u201cAs a member of the House Armed Services Committee since 2007, every day I\u2019m inspired to work on behalf of our men and women \u2013 and their families \u2013 in uniform,\u201d said Rep. Johnson, who sent letters of support to the VA for the grants. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to have voted on the VA health reform bill last week, and I\u2019m committed to doing what I can to help our veterans get their lives back on track.\u201d The grants are part of more than a $300 million nationwide effort in homeless prevention that is going to 301 non-profit community agencies in 50 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia that will help more than 115,000 homeless and at-risk veterans and their families. The program, Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF), is part of President Obama\u2019s pledge to \u201cbe relentless\u201d in his pursuit of ending veterans\u2019 homelessness within the decade. \u201cBy working with community non-profit organizations, we have enlisted valuable partners in our fight to end homelessness,\u201d said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald. \u201cThe work of SSVF grantees has already helped thousands of homeless Veterans and their families find homes and thousands more have been able to stay in their own homes.\u201d Through the Eliminating Veteran Homelessness Initiative, VA committed over $1 billion in FY 2014 to strengthen programs that prevent and end homelessness among veterans. VA provides a range of services to homeless Veterans, including health care, housing, job training, and education. More information about VA\u2019s homeless programs is available at www.va.gov/homeless. Details about the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program are online at www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf.asp. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=390849", "Clayton News Daily: U.S. Rep. David Scotts 10th Annual Health Fair to focus on veterans", "2014-08-15", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Cailin O\u2019Brien \r\nJONESBORO \u2014 The Atlanta Veteran\u2019s Affairs Medical Center and Atlanta Veteran\u2019s Affairs Regional Office will participate in U.S. Rep. David Scott\u2019s 10th Annual Health Fair for the first time this weekend.\r\nThe VA will be on site at Mundy\u2019s Mill High School, 9652 Fayetteville Road, Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. to offer free counseling for post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health services during the event. Health eligibility representatives will also be on site to help schedule appointments for veterans whose names are on waiting lists.\r\nScott said he brought the VA into the health fair as part of his bigger effort to assure soldiers coming home from battle get the help they need.\r\n\u201cOur veterans are the heart and soul of this country and we have to do better for them,\u201d he said. \u201cEver since I\u2019ve been on this, we\u2019ve had a serious problem. It is both a crisis and a shame \u2014 a national crisis and a national shame \u2014 the way our vets have been treated.\u201d\r\nScott helped pass the Ensuring Veterans Resiliency Act, a $17 billion bill aimed at helping veterans get mental health services. He said he was moved to author the bill after discovering that about 6,000 veterans commit suicide each year.\r\n\u201cThat\u2019s my proudest achievement since I\u2019ve been in this position \u2014 helping to cut down on these suicides,\u201d he said.\r\nThis year\u2019s health fair will also feature HomeSafe Georgia, a company that can deliver mortgage assistance to homeowners facing unemployment, a death in the family, sickness or other debilitating problems that could affect their financial situation.\r\nScott said this service could also help struggling veterans.\r\n\u201cMany of them receive notices on the battlefield that their mortgages are in trouble,\u201d he said.\r\nBut this year\u2019s health fair isn\u2019t just for veterans. Scott said he wants to invite all residents to come out and get a free check-up. Participants can come out to be screened for prostate cancer, breast cancer, HIV/Aids, diabetes, healthy blood pressure, asthma, cholesterol, mental health problems, memory problems and sickle cell anemia.\r\nResidents can also check up on their visual and dental health.\r\nScott said he was proud of this year\u2019s fair. He said he wanted to thank his staff for helping him to set the whole thing up and the health vendors for agreeing to offer their services for free.\r\n\u201cThis is a community effort \u2014 a real team effort,\u201d he said.\r\nNow all the fair needs is resident participation. Scott urged all his constituents to attend.\r\n\u201cYou can have all the money in the world,\u201d he said. \u201cYou can have the best of everything, but if you don\u2019t have your health and your strength, then it\u2019s inconsequential in terms of your happiness.\u201d\r\nHere\u2019s a list of vendors who will participate in this year\u2019s health fair: \r\n \r\n    AID Atlanta\r\n    Alzheimer\u2019s Association\r\n    American Diabetes Association\r\n    American Kidney Fund\r\n    Children\u2019s Healthcare of Atlanta,\r\n    Cobb County Community Services Board\r\n    Emory Hospital\r\n    Fulton County Department of Health\r\n    GA Prostate Cancer Coalition\r\n    Grady Health System\r\n    Kaiser Permanente\r\n    Not One More Life\r\n    New York Life\r\n    Radiotherapy Clinics of GA\r\n    Sisters By Choice\r\n    Southern Regional Health System\r\n    Morehouse School of Medicine\r\n    Clayton County Board of Health\r\n    Walgreen\u2019s\r\n    Wellcare\r\n    Advanced Family Eye Care of Hampton\r\n    Advanved Therapeutivs Concepts\r\n    DeKalb Medical Center\r\n    Department of Veterans Affairs\r\n    Georgia Academy of General Dentistry\r\n    Georgia Organics\r\n    Pain 2 Wellness\r\n    Shepherd Center, SHARE Military Initiative\r\n    WellStar Health System\r\n    Youth Villages\r\n \r\n------------------More information is available at:\u00a0Clayton News Daily: U.S. Rep. David Scott\u2019s 10th Annual Health Fair to focus on veterans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140815083203/http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-79th-anniversary-of-social-security", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON 79TH ANNIVERSARY OF SOCIAL SECURITY BEING SIGNED INTO LAW", "2014-08-14", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0 \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement regarding the 79th anniversary of the enactment of the Social Security program:\n\u201cSocial Security, one of America\u2019s proudest and most successful achievements, is a vital safety net to millions of senior citizens across the nation,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cSocial Security has transformed retirement, saving millions of Americans from poverty and providing them with a sense of security and peace of mind. There is no question that America\u2019s seniors deserve security and stability in their golden years after working hard throughout their lives, and I am fully committed to protecting Social Security for our elderly and disabled.\u201d\nPresident Franklin Roosevelt signed Social Security into law on August 14, 1935. Since then, the Social Security program has been the foundation of income for millions of seniors and families, many of whom urgently need it. Families spend $775 billion in Social Security benefits nationwide each year, benefitting state economies and local businesses all across the country.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140815084555/http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bishop-rep-mcmorris-rodgers-work-for-military-families", "REP. BISHOP, REP. MCMORRIS RODGERS WORK FOR MILITARY FAMILIES", "2014-08-14", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "SPOKANE, WA \u2013 Today, Thursday, August 14, 2015, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Co-chair of the bi-partisan Congressional Military Family Caucus (CMFC) and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies joined Co-chair of the CMFC, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) at a Military Family Summit for over 125 members of the extended military family at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington.\n\u201cAlmost five years ago Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and I founded this Caucus to honor the debt our nation holds for the sacrifices military families continue to make,\u201d said Congressman Bishop.\u00a0 \u201cToday\u2019s summit reminds us that military service is about people. How we care for service members and their families determines the success of the most professional all-volunteer force this world has even seen, now and into the future.\u201d\nHosted by Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, today\u2019s CMFC Summit continued the dialogue between military families and the Caucus. Military families were introduced to Members of Congress, officials from the Department of Defense, and personnel from numerous military family support organizations to discuss pressing issues impacting them.\n\"It is an honor and a privilege to speak with our military families, and this summit afforded us an opportunity to better understand the challenges these men and women face every single day,\u201d said Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers. \u201cTheir stories are what matter most, and this productive event brings new purpose to the work we are doing to ensure the military family community has their voices heard. Be it military spouse employment challenges, furthering education, or transitioning from military life, we will take their thoughts and ideas back with us to Congress, and we will work together to create better opportunities on behalf of this community.\"\nPanel discussions designed to open a dialogue for military families addressed critical issues such as mental health, spouse employment and education, military child education, health care and caregiver concerns, and transition assistance with attending military families.\n\u00a0\u201cI am proud of the military families living in my district in Georgia at Fort Benning in Columbus, the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, and the communities around Robins Air Force Base in Georgia,\u201d continued Congressman Bishop, \u201cThey are a living embodiment of the eternal optimism we hold in our country. They proudly volunteered to join the less than one percent to serve our nation here and abroad, in support of our national defense. We must address their concerns, for truly, military families are the backbone of our military.\u201d\n\u00a0The CMFC is a bipartisan congressional caucus that educates elected officials, congressional staffers, senior military leaders and the public on a wide range of unique issues that affect military families. Currently, over 80 Democrats and Republicans are members of the CMFC.\u00a0\nFor coverage of the 2013 summit at Fort Benning, Georgia; please click here. For coverage of the 2012 summit at Fort Benning, Georgia; please click here. For coverage of the 2011 summit at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, Washington; please click here. To view or download photos from today\u2019s event from today\u2019s event, please click here. To view today\u2019s live-tweet conversation through #MilFamSummit, please click here. For more information about the Congressional Military Family Caucus, please click here.\n\u00a0In his opening remarks, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. noted the importance of giving back to our nation\u2019s veterans and military families. Below is the full text of Congressman Bishop\u2019s prepared remarks:\n\u00a0\nPREPARED REMARKS FOR\nTHE HONORABLE SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR.\nCMFC FAMILY SUMMIT \u2013 NATIONAL INFANTRY MUSEUM\nFAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE - THURSDAY, August 14, 2014\n\u00a0Good morning and thank you for joining us today for this year's Congressional Military Family Caucus Family Summit (CMFC)! It is a great pleasure to be amongst those who have such a big impact on making America great - our brave men and women in uniform and you who admirably support those that defend our nation and safeguard our liberties.\n\u00a0I want to thank my colleague and Co-Chair of the CMFC, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, for hosting the summit this year at Fairchild Air Force Base. For myself, Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers, and many of our colleagues in the Congressional Military Family Caucus, the issues discussed today are important to us not just because of our constituencies, but due to our deeply personal connection as well.\n\u00a0Experiences like my wife's have taught me that our service members and their families serve and sacrifice together.\n\u00a0I would be remiss if I did not also thank our keynote speaker - Chief Master Sergeant James Cody - for his participation in today's event. I commend you and and all the Joint Chiefs for your current, and future, work on behalf of our military families.\n\u00a0I would also like to thank our moderators and panelists that will be facilitating the Summit today. Almost five years ago Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and I founded this Caucus to honor the debt our nation holds for the sacrifices military families continue to make.\n\u00a0We are deeply grateful to organizations such as Blue Star Families, Gold Star Wives, Military Child Education Coalition, American Logistics Association, Military Officers Association of America, and all of the military family support organizations here today. Your expertise will provide us with background on issues most important to the spouses, widows, and children of military service members stationed across the world.\n\u00a0Sometimes it is easy to recognize the sacrifices that our service members make without being fully aware of the tremendous hardships their families must endure. We feel it is equally important to educate elected officials, congressional staffers, senior military leaders, and the public on a wide range of issues that affect military families.\n\u00a0Additionally, I would like to salute the outstanding work being done on behalf of our military families by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden through Joining Forces Initiative as well as Members of the bipartisan Senate Military Family Caucus.\n\u00a0Most of all, I would like to thank the service members, military families, widows, and veterans joining us today. Our nation will forever be grateful for your selfless sacrifices and service to our nation.\n\u00a0Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and I are incredibly proud to have everyone here today and wanted to kick off the Summit by shining a light on the special challenges which military families face: healthcare, education, jobs, housing, and child care. This will be the Fourth Congressional Military Family Summit that Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and I have held with military families. Over time, the gathered feedback has included:\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Mental Health impacts of 10 years at war;\n-\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Educational challenges facing military children;\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Service members transitioning from active duty service to the civilian sector; and\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Health care and caregiver concerns\n\u00a0In the past, the feedback received was vital to our efforts in finding policy solutions that benefit our nation's beloved veterans, widows, and military families. So please feel free to speak your mind and share your story. This event provides our caucus a direction for the rest of the 113th Congress, and it is your input that points us to where we need to go.\n\u00a0As our international conflicts begin to draw down, resulting in reductions in military end-strength and constrained defense budgets, we must ensure that our obligations to military families are met.\n\u00a0I am proud of the military families living in my district in Georgia at Fort Benning in Columbus, the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, and the communities around Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. They are a living embodiment of the eternal optimism we hold in our country. They proudly volunteered to join the less than one percent to serve our nation here and abroad, in support of the U. S. service member. Truly, military families are the backbone of our military.\n\u00a0And after asking our Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve members, and their families to endure multiple deployments over the last twelve years, we in Congress must meet our commitment to support increased spousal and widow employment, training and education, health care options and coverage, as well as better military child education.\n\u00a0We cannot rest and rely on the progress made in the past. We must continue to work on areas that need improvement, and explore new areas of concern. So, I would ask all those here today, who value our military families, to continue this dialog with us. The members of our Caucus, and other members of Congress, need to hear from you. Your voices are important and extremely powerful.\n\u00a0We cannot forget -- military service is about people. How we care for service members and their families, determine the success of the most professional all volunteer force this world has even seen, now and into the future.\n\u00a0We hope that you will actively participate in the breakout sessions and help us to work together, improve military families' quality of life, and expand your opportunities.\n\u00a0God Bless.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140815084756/http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-91448-jag-award-to-columbus-consolidated", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $91,448 JAG AWARD TO COLUMBUS CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT", "2014-08-14", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "COLUMBUS, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is proud to announce that the Columbus Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia has received a FY14 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) award totaling $91,448 from the U.S. Department of Justice. The award will allow the Columbus Consolidated Government to hire personnel, perform drug screening and testing, and support substance abuse treatment programs. The goal of this project is to continue to provide substance abuse treatment and programming to juveniles and their families.\n\u201cThe Muscogee County Juvenile Court and Adult Felony Drug Court are essential to getting drugs off the streets of Columbus and providing treatment to individuals and families struggling with addiction,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am grateful for this opportunity extended to the Columbus Consolidated Government to continue to provide participants of the Drug Court programs with access to the treatment and services they need to recover and lead successful lives.\u201d\nThe Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) assists state and local governments in supporting a wide range of activities to prevent and control crime. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice.\nA portion of the funds also will go to the Columbus Police Department to purchase license plate readers, software, and other law enforcement equipment.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140818225035/http://johnlewis.house.gov:80/press-release/rep-john-lewis-shooting-michael-brown-and-events-ferguson-missouri", "Rep. John Lewis on Shooting of Michael Brown and Events in Ferguson, Missouri", "2014-08-14", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "\"The death of Michael Brown is a grave tragedy the community of Ferguson, Missouri should not have to bear.\u00a0 How many more young men of color will\u00a0 be killed\u00a0 before we realize\u00a0 that we have a problem in America?\u00a0 We are permitting the incarceration and shooting\u00a0 of\u00a0 thousands of black and brown\u00a0 boys\u00a0 in their formative years\u00a0 who might have become\u00a0 great\u00a0 artists, leaders, scientists, or lawyers if we had offered them our\u00a0 support instead of our suspicion.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"It is a shame and a disgrace that a city with a significant African American population has\u00a0 only three representatives from that\u00a0 community on the police force.\u00a0 What kind of a police department is it that would refer to the people it should be trying to protect as animals?\u00a0 It is unbelievable that these ideas could run rampant in 2014.\u00a0 This is not 1940 or 1950 in America, but today it is hard to see the difference.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"This is not China or Russia or Syria.\u00a0\u00a0 This is America, and\u00a0 in this country we have a right to protest in a peaceful, orderly non-violent fashion, and the press should be free\u00a0 to cover these protests without fear.\u00a0 The police should not interfere in the exercise of these constitutional rights.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If people are not allowed to express their dissatisfaction through peaceful protest, they will find other means to make their voices heard.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"This is a good time to consider\u00a0 the words of Martin Luther King Jr., who said that \"Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice.\"\u00a0 I am glad the federal government will make an independent investigation of these matters.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \" I urge every agency, every department, every community, every official and every person involved in this conflict to allow the whole truth to emerge so that peace--true peace and real justice will be the result.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \"My prayers are with the family of Michael Brown who lost their hope for a better future, with the city of Ferguson which has become the crucible of this conflict,\u00a0 and my prayers are for this nation still struggling with the scars and stains of racial discrimination, wanton violence, and flagrant injustice.\" \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918235804/http://johnlewis.house.gov/event/passport-day-atlanta-passport-agency", "Passport Day - Atlanta Passport Agency", "2014-08-14", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "The Atlanta Passport Agency will open its doors on Saturday, September 13, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. for a special Passport Day. For this day only, appointments are not required for customers to apply for a passport at the Atlanta Passport Agency.\u00a0 Customers can request routine service or expedite service.\u00a0 The $60 expedite fee will be charged to customers requesting expedite service.\u00a0 To reduce waiting times on September 13, customers are encouraged to complete applications online at travel.state.gov and bring their completed, unsigned forms to the agency.\nU.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering the United States by air.\u00a0 U.S. citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government.\nMore information on how to apply for a U.S. passport, including necessary documents and fees, is available at travel.state.gov.\u00a0 U.S. citizens may also obtain passport information by phone, in English and Spanish, by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/blog/?postid=390743", "Improving Your Credit Score", "2014-08-12", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "About half of all unpaid collections on consumers\u2019 credit reports are medical debts.\u00a0 The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released a research report earlier this year that found consumers\u2019 credit scores may be overly penalized for medical debt that goes into collections and shows up on their credit report.FICO recently announced that\u00a0would no longer weigh medical debts as part of\u00a0the company's widely-used credit scores. The newer FICO scores will also ignore any collections that have already been paid.\r\nThese changes may not dramatically change your credit score, but it could help secure a better interest rate for a loan.FICO scores are just one type of credit score based on a consumer's credit history.\u00a0In addition to paying bills on time, the CFPB has listed several ways to improve your credit history and also has a link to complain about inaccurate credit reports.Keep track of your credit report by requesting a free credit\u00a0report. Congressman Scott helped pass the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 \u200b(P.L. 108-159) which allowed Americans to request a free credit report from each of the credit reporting bureaus each year. Georgia residents are able to request two\u00a0free credit reports since state law had previously allowed for two reports a year. \u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\nHave a complaint about your credit report? You can\u00a0contact the\u00a0CFPB for assistance at: https://help.consumerfinance.gov/app/creditreporting/ask\u00a0\u00a0What are your experiences\u00a0with checking your credit history?\u00a0Was the information accurate?###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=384118", "Congressman David Scott to Host Tenth Annual Health Fair - August 16", "2014-08-07", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today Congressman David Scott proudly announced that he will host his 10th Annual Health Fair on Saturday, August 16, 2014 at Mundy\u2019s Mill High School.\u00a0 This event will feature free health screenings and information provided by the region\u2019s leading healthcare providers and organizations. \r\nFree health screenings include: Prostate cancer PSA;\u00a0Clinical breast cancer exams;\u00a0HIV/ AIDS;\u00a0Diabetes (glucose);\u00a0Blood pressure;\u00a0Asthma; Cholesterol;\u00a0Mental health; Memory (Dementia); Sickle cell;\u00a0Vision; Dental; and many others!\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nSpecial veterans services include:\u00a0Health eligibility and primary care representatives will be on site for enrollment information and scheduling for appointments for those currently on waiting lists. The VA Mobile Vet Center \u00a0will provide counseling for PTSD and mental health services.\u00a0\r\nThis year Congressman Scott\u2019s Health Fair is partnering with HomeSafe Georgia to deliver mortgage assistance to homeowners facing unemployment or underemployment. HomeSafe counselors will be available on site to provide direct counseling.\r\nWhat:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Congressman David Scott\u2019s 10th Annual Health Fair\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \r\nWhen:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Saturday, August 16, 2014 \u2013 10am to 2pm\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0  \r\nWhere:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Mundy\u2019s Mill High School | 9652 Fayetteville Rd. | Jonesboro, GA 30238\r\n\r\nThis year's participants include:\r\n\r\nA Family Dental Place  \r\nAalegna Health  \r\nAARP Georgia  \r\nAbbvie  \r\nAdvance Therapeutic Concepts, Inc.  \r\nAdvanced Family Eye Care of Hampton  \r\nAFLAC  \r\nAID Atlanta, Inc  \r\nAID Social Services, LLC  \r\nAlliant GMCF  \r\nAlzheimer's Association, Georgia Chapter  \r\nAlzheimer's Services Center  \r\nAmerican Cancer Society  \r\nAmerican Diabetes Association  \r\nAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Metro Atlanta Chapter  \r\nAmerican Heart Association  \r\nAmerican Kidney Fund  \r\nAmerica's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses  \r\nAmerigroup  \r\nAngels of Life Healthcare Consulting  \r\nAtlanta Black Nurses  \r\nAtlanta Gastroenterology Associates  \r\nCenter for Image Guided Medicine at Emory Adventist Hospital  \r\nCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  \r\nCenters for Medicare and Medicaid Services\u00a0  \r\nChildren's Health Care of Atlanta  \r\nClayton Center, Child and Adolescent Center  \r\nClayton Center Community Service Board  \r\nClayton County Board of Health  \r\nClayton County Library System  \r\nClayton County Public School, Adult Education Program  \r\nClayton County Senior Services Department (RSVP Program)  \r\nClayton State University Student American Dental Hygienists Association  \r\nCobb County Community Services Board  \r\nD&E Group  \r\nDaVita Kidney Smart  \r\nDecatur Cooperative Ministry  \r\nDivine Hospice  \r\nEmory University Alzheimer's Disease Research Center  \r\nEmory University Hospital  \r\nEmory University Project Giving ACTS  \r\nFight Colorectal Cancer  \r\nFulton County Department of Health Services, Breast and Cervical Cancer Program  \r\nFulton County Department of Health, Communicable Disease Prevention  \r\nGeorgia Academy of General Dentistry  \r\nGeorgia Cares  \r\nGeorgia Organics  \r\nGeorgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance  \r\nGeorgia Power  \r\nGeorgia Prostate Cancer Coalition  \r\nGeorgia Relay\u00a0  \r\nGeorgia State University, Department of Biology, Center for Inflammation, Infection and Immunity  \r\nGeorgia Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program (GACHI)  \r\nGet Covered America  \r\nGrady Health System  \r\nGreat Expressions Dental Center  \r\nHealthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program  \r\nHomeSafe Georgia Program  \r\nJonesboro Lions Club  \r\nKaiser Permanente  \r\nLifeLink of Georgia  \r\nLupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter  \r\nMorehouse School of Medicine  \r\nNational Hook-Up of Black Women  \r\nNew Life Chiropractic  \r\nNew York Life  \r\nNot One More Life  \r\nNovo Nordisk, Inc.  \r\nPain 2 Wellness Center  \r\nPeach State Health Plan  \r\nPlanned Parenthood Southeast, Inc.  \r\nRadiotherapy Clinics of Georgia  \r\nRight from the Start Medicaid  \r\nSBZ Services Unlimited, Inc.  \r\nShepherd Center, SHARE Military Initiative  \r\nSimpleC, LLC  \r\nSisters By Choice  \r\nSocial Security Administration  \r\nSouthern Regional Medical Center\u00a0  \r\nUnited States Department of Veterans Affairs, Atlanta Regional Office  \r\nUnited States Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center  \r\nUnited States Department of Veterans Affairs, Mobile Vet Center  \r\nUnited Way of Greater Atlanta, Supportive Services for Veterans Families  \r\nVisioncheck  \r\nWalgreens \u00a0  \r\nWellCare  \r\nWellStar  \r\nYoung Survival Coalition  \r\nYouth Villages", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=390447", "VA culture needs bipartisan fix", "2014-08-07", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By David A. Scott   \r\nPublished by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution \r\n Ever since the Inspector General and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution exposed the scandalous care at the Atlanta VA, I have been fighting to improve services for our veterans.\r\nLast year, I toured the Atlanta VA with the Republican chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Jeff Miller, to see the situation firsthand. But I did not need an IG report to tell me something was amiss. My district offices have experienced a spike in veterans\u2019 cases. Many of these cases were related to bureaucratic problems at the VA. \r\nAfter receiving incomplete and misleading reports from the VA leadership in Washington, I was the first to call for the resignation of VA Secretary Eric Shinseki. I saw management and culture problems that would become a political problem if it were not addressed in a Truman-like manner. The buck had to stop somewhere. This is a serious problem in need of full bipartisan commitment to change the culture at the VA.\r\nFortunately, this is one of the few examples of Congress working together to solve a problem. The House and Senate passed House Resolution 3230, the Veterans\u2019 Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014, by a large bipartisan vote. President Barack Obama is expected to sign the bill into law.\r\nA veteran should not have to wait months for a medical appointment. The bill would allow a veteran enrolled in the VA health care system to receive care outside the VA system if the veteran is unable to secure an appointment at a VA medical facility within 30 days, or if the veteran resides more than 40 miles from the nearest VA medical facility. A Veterans Choice Card to eligible veterans will facilitate care by non-VA providers.\r\nThe bill would fund additional physicians and medical staff, and authorize 27 major medical facility leases, including $6.4 million to expand the outpatient clinic in Austell. This additional capacity will help cut wait times.\r\nTo bring real accountability for incompetent or corrupt senior managers, the bill would authorize the VA to fire or demote Senior Executive Service employees for poor performance or misconduct.\r\nI have been working to recruit more psychiatrists to the VA and am glad legislation I sponsored is included in HR 3230. It expands student loan repayment programs to recruit specialty doctors, including psychiatrists, to the VA. Further, this bill allows veterans to receive in-state tuition. I have introduced bills in past years to create similar opportunities for active-duty state residents.\r\nI am bringing the VA out to the community. The director of the Atlanta Regional Benefit Office, Al Bocchicchio, and the director of the Atlanta VA Medical Center, Leslie Wiggins, will attend my health fair Aug. 16 at Mundy\u2019s Mill High School in Jonesboro. I encourage all metro area veterans with pending issues to attend.\r\nOur work is not over. I will keep working on this issue until I hear from Georgia veterans that they are receiving first-class care in a timely manner.\r\nDavid A. Scott, a Democrat, is U.S. representative for Georgia\u2019s 13th Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140808024314/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/rep-hank-johnsons-e-newsletter-august-6-2014", "Rep. Hank Johnson's E-Newsletter for August 6, 2014", "2014-08-07", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Dear Friends,\nOn July 30, I marked the 49th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid by taking to the House floor to celebrate these twin poverty fighting pillars and to continue speaking about the new State Medicaid Expansion Caucus (SMEC), which I proudly co-chair.\u00a0\nPresident Lyndon Johnson signed Medicare and Medicaid into law on July 30, 1965. On the 49th anniversary of the enactment of Medicare & Medicaid, I will stand with our seniors and recommit to rejecting plans that will end Medicare as we know it and increase costs.\nYou can participate in the new Medicaid Expansion Caucus by liking us on Facebook.\nSMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION: The Small Business Administration (SBA), which helps Americans start, build and grow businesses, is having a huge impact in the Fourth District. From Norcross and Snellville in Gwinnett County to Tucker, Decatur, Avondale Estates, Clarkston, Pine Lake, Lithonia and Stone Mountain in DeKalb \u2013 Conyers in Rockdale County to Covington and Oxford in Newton County \u2013 the SBA has helped Fourth District businesses to the tune of $115 million since 2013, saving or creating more than 2,700 jobs. For more on how the SBA can help your small business, click HERE.\nSBA CONFERENCE: On August 19, 2014, SBA Georgia District Office will be joining Atlanta City Council President Caesar Mitchell and the General Services Administration for the 3rd annual Back To Business Conference at Atlanta City Hall.\u00a0 The conference is free of charge. Small business owners from around the metro area will have the opportunity to network with potential government and private sector buyers and feature panels on entrepreneurship and the new Atlanta Falcons stadium project. SBA Regional Administrator Cassius Butts will be the keynote speaker. For more, visit my small business resources page HERE.\nHOMESAFE GEORGIA: Prior to becoming a Congressman, I fought against foreclosures in our community as a DeKalb County commissioner.\nBut as a Congressman, I\u2019ve taken my fight against foreclosures to the next level. Since 2009, my office has helped more than 1,800 residents deal with pending foreclosures of their homes.\nIn 2011, my office partnered with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and D&E housing specialists to raise awareness of President Obama\u2019s Hardest Hit Fund, known as HomeSafe in Georgia. HomeSafe helps homeowners who are unemployed or underemployed through no fault of their own with up to 24 months of mortgage payments. It helps residents keep their homes until they are back on their feet.\nToday, more than 1,050 Fourth District homes have been saved thanks to HomeSafe, which has resulted in nearly $21 million in relief \u2013 more than any other district in Georgia. I\u2019m proud our office has worked with DCA to get the word out about HomeSafe \u2013 and helped get DCA\u2019s Fourth District outreach off the ground. For more on HomeSafe, click HERE. To view my online foreclosure prevention center, click HERE.\nFIXING THE VA: As a member of the House Armed Services Committee since 2007, every day I\u2019m inspired to work on behalf of all our military personnel and veterans.\nThat\u2019s why I was particularly pleased to vote in favor of the bipartisan, bicameral agreement on legislation to reform and strengthen the Department of Veterans Affairs last week, which will help ensure that all our veterans have access to the health care and benefits they have earned.\nFor more on the VA, click HERE.\nCOMMUNITY EVENTS: Congratulations to my friend Pastor William Flippin and The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church family on the grand opening of their new sanctuary. The dedication service was outstanding. It was good to see so many friends and constituents this past weekend. For more, visit my Facebook page.\nWORLD HEPATITIS DAY: Last week, the World Health Organization recognized July 28 as \u201cWorld Hepatitis Day\u201d in order to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, a disease that has become a global health risk and is also a growing threat in Georgia.\nMore than five million Americans (2 percent of the population) are living with hepatitis B, hepatitis C or both. Yet according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), up to 75 percent of these individuals do not realize they are infected. Undiagnosed viral hepatitis is the leading cause of cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver transplants. While the virus remains undetected, individuals can unknowingly transmit the disease to others.\nAs someone who has fought and ultimately won my battle with hepatitis, I know firsthand how important it is to get tested and treated.\nI joined Sen. Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii, Rep. Michael M. Honda of California and Rep. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana to pen an op-ed in the Capitol Hill newspaper Roll Call about the need for greater testing for hepatitis. To read the op-ed, click HERE.\nPASSPORT DAY: The Atlanta Passport Agency will open its doors on Saturday, September 13, 2014, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. for a special Passport Day. For this day only, appointments are not required for customers to apply for a passport at the Atlanta Passport Agency. Customers can request routine service or expedite service.\u00a0 The $60 expedite fee will be charged to customers requesting expedite service.\u00a0 To reduce waiting times on September 13, customers are encouraged to complete applications online at travel.state.gov and bring their completed, unsigned forms to the agency. For more, click HERE.\nHUMANITARIAN BORDER CRISIS: House Republicans claimed last week that their bill to address the surge of unaccompanied children from Central America at the border would \u201cfix\u201d the problem. The sad truth is that not only is the bill going nowhere but it was nothing more than a talking point so Republicans could take it home to constituents to claim they did something.\nInstead of wasting time on political messaging bills that take us nowhere, I have a better idea: let\u2019s focus on a solution to our broken immigration system. The bipartisan immigration legislation that passed the Senate over a year ago offers comprehensive answers to the problems with our immigration system \u2013 but for more than a year House Republicans have refused to give the American people a vote.\nThe Senate\u2019s bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform legislation secures the border, protects our workers, unites our families, creates jobs and reduces the deficit by nearly $900 billion. The humanitarian crisis at the border is a powerful reminder of the importance of an immigration system that honors our values as a nation. The time is now. While House Republicans search for the compassion to help desperate children, Democrats are demanding a vote on the comprehensive immigration reform our nation needs.\nFOR YOUR/MORE INFORMATION:\nHousing Help | Jobs Center | Healthcare | Small Businesses\n\u00a0Seniors | Students | Veterans\nAs always, I appreciate your time and feedback. Please remember you can reach me on Facebook and Twitter as well as e-mails, phone calls and letters. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to represent you in Congress.\nHank", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140808023118/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/hank-recognizes-49th-anniversary-voting-rights-act", "Rep. Johnson recognizes the 49th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act", "2014-08-06", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Today, we mark the 49th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act (VRA). Although the Supreme Court took a step backwards last year by holding that the formula in Section 4 of the Act was unconstitutional and could no longer be used, I remain hopeful that Republicans and Democrats can come together to fix this mistake and pass the Voting Rights Act Amendment.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=390446", "Congressman David Scott and Mrs. Alfredia Scott Honor Student Scholars", "2014-08-04", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman David Scott (GA-13) and Mrs. Alfredia Scott presented nine area students scholarship awards totaling $10,700 and through the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Spouses and Foundation scholarship programs.\u00a0 Since 2003, Congressman Scott and his wife, Mrs. Alfredia Scott, have awarded $151,200 in scholarships to 90 students.  \u201cI am so proud to celebrate these outstanding young people who have already achieved so much by excelling academically and serving the community in a number of special ways. This group includes a valedictorian, two International Baccalaureate program graduates, a former Miss Georgia USA, and aspiring physicians, dancers, science majors, and more,\u201d said Congressman Scott.\u00a0 Mrs. Scott, wife of Congressman Scott, was very instrumental in securing the scholarships for the students as an active member of the CBC Spouses program. \u201cToday my husband and I are honored to recognize these bright students for their exceptional achievements and ambitious goals,\u201d said Mrs. Scott. \u201cWe also commend their parents and teachers who encouraged them to stay the course.\" Congressman and Mrs. Scott were joined at the presentation by Katrina Finch, of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, and Debra Johnson, of Scholarship America. This year\u2019s honorees include:\u00a0 \r\n\u00a02014 Congressional Black Caucus Spouses Education Scholarship - $1,025\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Isaiah Borne, Marietta H.S. graduate, Massachusetts Institute of Technology\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sydney-Alyce Bourget, Elite Scholars Academy H.S. graduate, University of Georgia\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Camille Dent, South Cobb H.S. graduate, University of Georgia\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Taylor Edwards-Moody, Dutchtown H.S. graduate, Barnard College of Columbia University \r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Nikaule Norwood, Tri Cities H.S. graduate, Valdosta State University\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Monica Ogunsusi, Mundy\u2019s Mill H.S. graduate, University of Georgia\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Monique Ogunsusi, Mundy\u2019s Mill H.S. graduate, University of Georgia\r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tiffany Willis, Duquesne University graduate, Pursuing MBA: Emory University\r\n2014 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation General Mills Health Scholarship - $2,500 \r\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 CeLexus Cambric, Campbell H.S. graduate, University of Georgia\r\n\u00a0  \r\nThe CBC Scholarship Fund was established in 1988 in response to federal cuts in spending for education programs and scholarships.\u00a0 This program provides tuition assistance to enable students to fulfill their higher education goals.\u00a0 For more information, students should contact Congressman Scott\u2019s Office at 770-432-5405.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140808043837/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-sanford-bishop-calls-for-a-compassionate-and-comprehensive", "CONGRESSMAN SANFORD BISHOP CALLS FOR A COMPASSIONATE AND COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTION FOR THE SOUTHWEST BORDERS HUMANITARIAN CRISIS", "2014-08-02", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \ufffd\ufffd\ufffd Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) called for a compassionate and comprehensive solution to the humanitarian crisis on the Southwest border after voting against H.R. 5230, a partisan measure presented by the House Majority party to address the flow of immigrant children crossing into the United States. Congressman Bishop also voted against H.R. 5272, a bill designed to restrict the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA) and deport current immigrants known as \ufffd\ufffd\ufffdDREAMers\ufffd\ufffd\ufffd. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), 52,193 unaccompanied children have been apprehended at the southwest border between October 1, 2013, and June 15, 2014, citing violence, abuse, crime, gang threats, and insecurity as a prime motivation for migrating. The largest number of children (29%) came from Honduras, followed by Guatemala (24%), Mexico (23%), and El Salvador (22%).\n\ufffd\ufffd\ufffdMany cite fear as the reason we must militarize our borders, cut down safeguards in our immigration processing procedures, and indiscriminately ship the children of terrorized families back across the border,\ufffd\ufffd? said Congressman Bishop. \ufffd\ufffd\ufffdWell, I am not afraid of upholding the standard of neighborly kindness which our forefathers set for our great nation while safely securing our borders against those who would do harm. But, I am afraid of sending a ruthless illustration to the world of how America treats the \ufffd\ufffd\ufffdtired, poor, and huddled masses yearning to breathe free\ufffd\ufffd\ufffd, destroying the enduring vision of hope the world perceives in the United States of America.\nH.R. 5230 would spend $694 million in emergency funding through September 30, 2014. But, it would fail to adequately fund overburdened immigration courts and address the root causes of migration from the Central American countries. Instead it directs funding to expand the inhumane practice of family detention and the wasteful and unnecessary involvement of the National Guard.\n\ufffd\ufffd\ufffdIt is written in Luke 10:25-37 to \ufffd\ufffd\ufffdLove thy neighbor as thyself,\ufffd\ufffd\ufffd\ufffd\ufffd? continued Congressman Bishop. \ufffd\ufffd\ufffdRather than protecting vulnerable children who have already endured unspeakable hardship, H.R. 5230 puts immigrant children at risk of further harm by speeding up their removal process and sending them straight back into the clutches of human traffickers, abusive gangs, and drug lord kingpins.\ufffd\ufffd?\nThe bill expands funding to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for increased detention space, transportation costs, overtime costs, expedited migrant processing, and additional deportation and enforcement personnel, but does not do enough to ensure the health and welfare of the children detained. It also strips the usual human rights conditions and certification requirements placed on the Guatemalan and Honduran militaries with regard to giving financial assistance through the State Department to Central American governments to reintegrate the deported children found ineligible for asylum, among other measures.\n\ufffd\ufffd\ufffdAdditionally, the draconian measures within H.R. 5230 roll back due process of law, weaken protections against child labor and sex trafficking, and misplace vital resources necessary to be used at the border. Also, by voting to curtail DACA, the Majority Party in Congress is dragging us further and further away from necessary and common-sense immigration reform. I call for regular order and the pursuit of, not just a short-term, but a long-term, compassionate, and comprehensive solution to the crisis at our Southwest border,\ufffd\ufffd? concluded Congressman Bishop.\nCongressman Bishop has supported H.R. 15, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, a bill to protect the United States against would-be terrorists, secure our borders, and address the 11.5 million undocumented individuals who are now in the United States illegally. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the companion Senate bill, passed last summer, would reduce the federal deficit by $135 billion over the next ten-year period.\nRepublicans in Congress wrongly blame the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA) for the recent influx of immigrant children into the United States, when in reality a majority of the children were motivated to migrate because they suffered or faced some type of harm in their homes or community. DACA provides temporary relief from deportation as well as work authorization to over 500,000 \ufffd\ufffd\ufffdDREAMers\ufffd\ufffd\ufffd who were brought to the United States as children, many of whom know no other country but the United States as home. These individuals include talented students, hard-working high school graduates, and veterans who pose no threat to public safety. Going after these individuals would consume much-needed resources needed by law enforcement to target those who would do America harm.\nThe U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5230 by a party-line vote of 223 to 189; H.R 5272 by a vote of 216 to 192. Neither is expected to pass the U.S. Senate. Congressman Bishop voted against both measures.\n\ufffd\ufffd\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140802095851/https://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/statement-honorable-henry-c-%E2%80%9Chank%E2%80%9D-johnson-jr-fair-pay-and-safe-workplaces-executive", "Statement of the Honorable Henry C. Hank Johnson, Jr. on the Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces Executive Order", "2014-08-01", "2014", "2014-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "The Administration announced that President Obama signed the Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces Executive Order on July 31. Among other things, the Order will prohibit federal contractors from using forced arbitration clauses in employment contracts involving civil and sexual assault and harassment disputes. The Executive Order directs companies with federal contracts of $1 million or more not to require their employees to enter into predispute arbitration agreements for disputes arising out of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or from torts related to sexual assault or harassment (except when valid contracts already exist).This builds on a policy already passed by Congress and successfully implemented at the Department of Defense, the largest federal contracting agency, and will help improve contractors\u2019 compliance with labor laws. Congressman Hank Johnson, GA-04, ranking member of the House Judiciary subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law, issued the following statement supporting the action: \"Yesterday, the President signed the Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces Executive Order requiring federal contractors to give employees their day in court. \"The President\u2019s Executive Order prohibits the use of forced arbitration agreements in federal employment contracts for disputes involving civil rights, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. \u00a0  \n\tForced arbitration is a private system that is fundamentally inferior to the American civil justice system. \"Unlike America\u2019s civil justice system that was developed through centuries of jurisprudence, forced arbitration does not provide important procedural guarantees of fairness and due process that are the hallmarks of courts of law. \"Behind closed doors and shrouded in secrecy, forced arbitration enables employers to conceal wrongdoing from public scrutiny and to undermine our rights. \"Since 2007, I have championed the Arbitration Fairness Act, which would eliminate forced arbitration clauses in employment, consumer, and civil rights cases. I applaud President Obama for undertaking this important initiative to protect workers. This Order is an important first step in ending forced arbitration. \"Americans deserve better than private, unaccountable tribunals. \u00a0 \"Although I encourage the President to do more to protect all Americans against forced arbitration, every journey begins with a single step. Equal access to justice for all is not an aspiration; it is a guarantee to all Americans. \"We can do better, which is why I stand ready to work with the Administration and my colleagues to enact the Arbitration Fairness Act and to summarily end forced arbitration in employment, consumer, antitrust, and civil rights disputes.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://davidscott.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=389995", "VA Reforms Approved by Congress", "2014-07-31", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "David Scott", "S001157", "davidscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "VA Reforms Approved by Congress \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,\r\n        July 31, 2014\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Last night, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3230, the The Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act of 2014 by a vote of 420-5. This wide-ranging bill expands a VA facility in Cobb County and includes legislation championed by Congressman Scott to recruit more mental health professionals and to allow for in-state tuition.  \n\u00a0  \n\u201cEver since the scandals at the Atlanta VA have been exposed, I have been fighting to improve service at the VA,\u201d Congressman Scott said. \u201cLast year, I toured the Atlanta VA with the Republican Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee and I was the first to call for the resignation of Secretary Shinseki. But, this was not politics for me. This is a serious problem in need of full bi-partisan commitment to change the culture at the VA. H.R. 3230 is a major step toward these goals. But, our work is not over. I will keep working on this issue until I hear from Georgia veterans that they are receiving first class care in a timely manner.\u201d  \n\u00a0  \nTo improve access to and quality of care for veterans, the bill would allow a veteran who is enrolled in the VA health care system to receive care outside of the VA system if the veteran is unable to secure an appointment at a VA medical facility within 30 days or if the veteran resides more than 40 miles from the nearest VA medical facility.  To expand the VA\u2019s internal capacity to provide timely care to veterans, the bill would authorize 27 major medical facility leases, including $6.4 million to expand the outpatient clinic in Austell.To provide real accountability for incompetent or corrupt senior managers, the bill would authorize the VA to fire or demote Senior Executive Service (SES) employees for poor performance or misconduct.  \n\u00a0   \n\u201cI am glad that legislation that I have sponsored is included in H.R. 3230,\u201d Congressman Scott said. \u201cFirst, this measure will include expanded student loan repayment programs to recruit specialty doctors, including psychiatrists, to the VA. Second, this bill allows for veterans to receive in-state tuition.\u201d  \n\u00a0  \nH.R. 3230 includes improved student loan repayment incentives to recruit more specialty doctors at the VA. Earlier this year, Congressman Scott introduced H.R. 4234, the Ensuring Veterans Resiliency Act, with Rep. Larry Buschon. Their bill would help recruit more psychiatric physicians through a loan repayment program.   \n\u00a0  \nTo  improve education benefits for veterans and dependents, the bill would require public colleges to provide in-state tuition to veterans and eligible dependents in order for the school to remain eligible to receive G.I. Bill education payments. This is an issue that Congressman Scott has long championed. In 2003, he introduced H.R.1991, the Military In-State Tuition Act of 2003 and in 2005 he introduced H.R.197, the Military In-State Tuition Act of 2005.   \n\u00a0  \nFor more information, visit the Veterans Affairs Committee website.\n ###\n  \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140801083826/http://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sanford-bishop-rails-against-wasting-time-on-partisan", "CONGRESSMAN SANFORD BISHOP RAILS AGAINST WASTING TIME ON PARTISAN BICKERING", "2014-07-31", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) railed against the choice of the Republican Majority in the House of Representatives to focus on debating and passing House Resolution 676, a resolution authorizing the U.S. House to sue the President of the United States:\n\u201cThe needs of our nation demand that the precious little time before the end of session should be used to improve the everyday lives of all Americans, and not waste time over partisan bickering. We should be working in a bipartisan fashion to find logical solutions which might include helping bolster the economy, create jobs, or improve education across the United States.\n\u201cOf all issues to be addressed, the Republican Majority\u2019s meaningless charade to sue the President of the United States over the success of the Affordable Care Act is among the most wasteful, unfortunate, and indicative of a mired and broken Congress. I will not stand for this partisan grudge match, and frankly, neither should the American people.\u201d\nPassed along partisan party lines by a vote of 225 to 201, the Republican Lawsuit against President Barack Obama authorizes the Speaker of the House to spend millions of dollars to initiate an unlimited number of frivolous lawsuits on the President, the head of any department or agency, or any other officer or employee of the Executive Branch; add to the already wasted $79 million on more than 50 votes to repeal or undermine the Affordable Care Act; and waste valuable time focusing on political stunts instead of creating jobs or encouraging economic growth. Congressman Bishop voted against the resolution.\nThis effort follows a long list of government waste induced by the Republican Majority in the House of Representatives. Specifically regarding the effort to deny Americans access to affordable health care, the Majority\u2019s fifty votes to repeal the successful law have cost American taxpayers $79 million. The shutdown of the Federal Government cost American taxpayers $24 million. Additionally, it is believed that this effort to sue the President is a first step towards a future impeachment vote in the House of Representatives, a future waste of resources and time in the House of Representatives.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918235827/http://johnlewis.house.gov/event/congress-community-peachtree-center-mall", "Congress in the Community - Peachtree Center Mall", "2014-07-31", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Each Congress in the Community event lasts about two hours and is an opportunity for 5th District residents to get advice or assistance with challenges they may have involving the federal government.\u00a0 They can also use this opportunity to communicate any concerns they have to the congressman representing them.\u00a0 A member of Rep. Lewis\u2019s staff will be on hand at the library to meet with constituents.\u00a0 No appointment is necessary.\u00a0 For more information call 404-659-0116.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140801033640/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/reps-johnson-butterfield-highlight-49th-anniversary-medicare-medicaid", "Reps. Johnson, Butterfield highlight 49th Anniversary of Medicare & Medicaid", "2014-07-30", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Co-chairs of State Medicaid Expansion Caucus also urge all states to expand Medicaid to cover their citizens WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Reps. G.K. Butterfield (D-NC) and Hank Johnson (D-GA) marked the 49th anniversary of the enactment of Medicare and Medicaid.\u00a0 President Lyndon Johnson signed Medicare and Medicaid into law on July 30, 1965.\nTo watch Rep. Johnson's floor speech, click HERE. \u201cForty-nine years ago, Democrats created Medicare and Medicaid; over nearly half a century, we have sustained them; now and into the future, we will protect them,\u201d stated Rep. Butterfield. This spring, Republicans once again passed a House GOP budget that ends Medicare as we know it and turns this sacred initiative into a privatized voucher plan, increasing future health costs for seniors. \u201cOn the 49th anniversary of the enactment of Medicare, I will stand with our seniors and recommit to rejecting plans that will end Medicare as we know it and increase costs,\u201d said Rep. Butterfield. \u201cDemocrats have also been working to strengthen Medicare,\u201d Rep. Johnson said.\u00a0 \u201cThe Affordable Care Act contains several provisions to improve Medicare.\u00a0 The ACA provides free Medicare coverage for key preventive services and it also has created significant savings for many seniors by providing discounts on their drugs for those in the Medicare Part D \u2018donut hole\u2019 coverage gap.\u201d Since the Affordable Care Act was enacted, people with Medicare in Georgia have saved $327 million on prescription drugs. So far in 2014 alone, more than 47,000 individuals in Georgia saved $39 million, or an average of $835 per enrollee. In North Carolina, people with Medicare have saved $359 million on prescription drugs. So far in 2014 alone, 56,000 individuals in North Carolina saved $41 million, or an average of $741 per enrollee. Furthermore, there is lots of other good news about how the ACA has benefited Medicare enrollees: \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the life of the Medicare Trust Fund has been extended by 13 years.\u00a0 The provisions of the ACA have played a critical role in helping to extend the Trust Fund.  \n\t\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The growth rate in Medicare spending per person has fallen dramatically \u2013 falling from an annual average growth rate per person of 6.3 percent in 2000-2008 to 2.0 percent in 2009-2012.  \n\t\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Lower Medicare spending means lower cost sharing and lower premiums for Medicare enrollees.\u00a0 For example, after having grown rapidly under President George W. Bush, the Medicare Part B premium did not increase at all in 2014 \u2013 remaining at the 2013 level \u2013 and it is projected it will remain again at the 2013 level in 2015. \u201cDemocrats are also proud of the health security being provided to millions of Americans by the Medicaid program,\u201d Rep. Butterfield added. \u00a0 More than 60 million Americans are currently enrolled in Medicaid.\u00a0 In addition, for those states that have chosen to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, the ACA has made a tremendous difference already. According to a study by the nonpartisan Commonwealth Fund, in states that expanded Medicaid, the uninsured rate for poor adults has\u00a0 dropped from 28 percent to 17 percent, whereas in states that have refused to expand Medicaid, the uninsured rate for low-income adults has only dropped from 38 percent to 36 percent. \u201cAs we celebrate the anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid, I am determined to continue to strengthen them,\u201d Rep. Johnson said.\u00a0 \u201cOver the last 49 years, Democrats have fought vigorously to enact Medicare and Medicaid and protect them and we will not stop.\u201d ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140801054602/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-fights-for-timely-and-complete-care-for-our-veterans", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP FIGHTS FOR TIMELY AND COMPLETE CARE FOR OUR VETERANS", "2014-07-30", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, released the following statement after the House passage of the conference report on H.R. 3230, the Veterans\u2019 Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014. H.R. 3230 contains provisions that will help provide timely care to veterans, hold the management of the Department of Veterans Affairs accountable, uphold the integrity of the department, and improve education benefits for veterans and their dependants.\n\u201cWithout a doubt, the American people expect and veterans deserve the best service possible and I firmly believe that it is a duty of all of us in Congress to ensure that no one betrays the sacred trust owed to our Veterans. The failure and mismanagement of care for our veterans that has come to light through the IG\u2019s investigation over the past two months must never be repeated, and I trust that this bill will go far to help reverse the failures, and ensure better future treatment of veterans at the VA.\u201d\nSpecific provisions of the conference report include; providing $5 billion to the VA to hire additional physicians and other medical staff, authorizing a system for the VA to fire or demote management level employees for poor performance or misconduct, and increasing access to non-VA care for those veterans in dire need, among other measures.\nFor more information on key provisions in the Veterans\u2019 Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014, please click here. Congressman Bishop also submitted a statement to the House record regarding the passage of H.R. 3230.\nThe full text of Congressman Bishop\u2019s statement is included below:\nThank you Mr. / Mrs. Speaker.\nAt this time, there is no federal agency more deserving of our attention than the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA has served generations of heroes who have sacrificed on behalf of our country and we have an obligation to take care of them when they come home.\nWithout a doubt, the American people expect and veterans deserve the best service possible and I firmly believe that it is a duty of all of us in Congress to ensure that no one betrays the sacred trust owed to our Veterans.\nThe failure and mismanagement of care for our veterans that has come to light through the IG\u2019s investigation over the past two months must never be repeated, and I trust that this bill will go far to help reverse the failures, and ensure better future treatment of veterans at the VA.\nI think this conference report contains provisions that will help provide timely care to veterans, hold the management of the Department of Veterans Affairs accountable, uphold the integrity of the department, and improve education benefits for veterans and their dependants \u2013 representing a major step in the right direction in meeting those obligations.\nSpecific measures to do so include; providing $5 billion to the VA to hire additional physicians and other medical staff, authorizing a system for the VA to fire or demote management level employees for poor performance or misconduct, and increasing access to non-VA care for those veterans in dire need.\nYesterday, we were greeted with the good news of the Senate confirmation of the new VA Secretary, Robert McDonald. While the Senate acted swiftly on the confirmation of McDonald, I was disappointed to see that the Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman was unable to bring the FY 2015 MilCon/VA Appropriations bill to floor due to objections from the Senate Minority. If we truly wanted to get the ball rolling to make the VA better the Senate Minority should allow the bill to come to the floor.\nNevertheless, I also have full expectation that with the passage of this conference report it is going to be important that this Congress hold Secretary McDonald and his subordinates fully accountable moving forward.\nThank you.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140801054617/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-welcomes-confirmation-of-new-secretary-of-veterans", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP WELCOMES CONFIRMATION OF NEW SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, ROBERT MCDONALD", "2014-07-30", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, released the following statement congratulating and welcoming the Senate confirmation of Robert McDonald, the new secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).\n\u201cI congratulate Robert McDonald on his confirmation as Secretary of the VA. Now it\u2019s time to get to work on the laundry list of VA improvements for our veterans. In addition to changing the management culture at the VA and ensuring that veterans get the timely care and consideration to which they are entitled, the VA needs to continue to address veterans\u2019 homelessness, fully develop an integrated DoD-VA Electronic Health Records System, and eliminate the claims backlog for all veterans waiting for the benefits they are due. I look forward to working with Secretary Robert McDonald to address these important issues.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140801054652/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-sanford-bishop-pushes-for-the-designation-of-a-national-get-vertical", "REP. SANFORD BISHOP PUSHES FOR THE DESIGNATION OF A NATIONAL GET VERTICAL DAY", "2014-07-30", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) introduced a resolution in the United States House of Representatives to designate a national \u201cGet Vertical\u201d Day to encourage Americans \u2013 especially adults \u2013 to incorporate physical activity in their workday so that they may live healthier and more productive lives.\n\u201cPhysical inactivity is responsible for an estimated 1 in 10 deaths each year,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cA national \u2018Get Vertical\u2019 Day is an important first step in spreading awareness about the public health dangers of inactivity and sedentary lifestyles.\u201d\nThe prevalence of obesity has skyrocketed over the last twenty-five years, with over one-third of American adults now classified as obese. The problem is particularly acute for ethnic and racial minorities as well as people with disabilities, who face disproportionately high obesity and diabetes rates.\n\"We have become a sitting-society,\" said John Robitscher, CEO of the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors. \"That puts us all at risk. It is time to stand up, to move, to do whatever we can to get vertical.\"\nDespite the growing attention to our nation\u2019s dramatic increase in obesity rates, an overlooked factor is the amount of time Americans spend sitting down. Those working in a corporate environment generally drive to work sitting down, hold meetings sitting down, eat sitting down, work on computers sitting down, and talk on the phone sitting down. Outside of going to the restroom or getting coffee, time sitting down accumulates to over six hours a day, five days a week.\nIn fact, only 22% of Americans report regular sustained physical activity and only 5% of adults achieve the recommended 150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. In addition, people with disabilities can experience nearly double the rates of inactivity as people without disabilities. According to the CDC, most adults with disabilities are able to participate in physical activity, yet nearly half of them get no aerobic physical activity.\nParticipating in \u201cactive\u201d workplace events, such as walking lunches, standing phone calls, and interactive meetings all are minor behavioral alterations that can have profound health impacts. Indeed, walking 10,000 steps a day leads to a 90% reduction in heart attacks, a 30% to 70% reduction in cancer rates, a 50% reduction in Type 2 diabetes, and a 70% reduction in strokes.\n\u201cIt is time for us to stand up against obesity!\u201d concluded Congressman Bishop.\nTwenty Representatives have joined Congressman Bishop as original co-sponsors of this resolution: Reps. Bass, Beatty, Butterfield, Carson, Clarke, Clay, Cleaver, Clyburn, Fudge, Hastings, Jeffries, Johnson, Kelly, Lewis, Norton, Rangel, Sewell, Thompson, Wasserman Shultz, and Waters.\nIn addition, the resolution is supported by The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, Directors of Health Promotion and Education (DHPE), The National Physical Activity Society , The American Association on Health and Disability, the Greater Philadelphia Business Coalition on Health, the North East Texas Public Health District, Hepatitis Foundation International (HFI), International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors, Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease, Population Health Alliance, Omada Health, Bioscape Digital, and The Lakeshore Foundation.\nTo view a copy of the resolution, please note attached:\nNationalGetVerticalDayResolution.pdf\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140918235839/http://johnlewis.house.gov/event/congress-community-atlanta-public-library-ml-king-jr-branch-0", "Congress in the Community at Atlanta Public Library - M.L. King Jr. Branch", "2014-07-30", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "John Lewis", "L000287", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Each Congress in the Community event lasts about two hours and is an opportunity for 5th District residents to get advice or assistance with challenges they may have involving the federal government.\u00a0 They can also use this opportunity to communicate any concerns they have to the congressman representing them.\u00a0 A member of Rep. Lewis\u2019s staff will be on hand at the library to meet with constituents.\u00a0 No appointment is necessary.\u00a0 For more information call 404-659-0116.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140725030322/http://hankjohnson.house.gov/press-release/reps-johnson-butterfield-launch-state-medicaid-expansion-caucus", "Reps. Johnson, Butterfield launch State Medicaid Expansion Caucus", "2014-07-23", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Hank Johnson", "J000288", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressmen to raise awareness on the budgetary, economic, health and moral reasons for states to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Reps. Hank Johnson (GA-04) and G.K. Butterfield (NC-01), along with more than 30 House colleagues, announced the formation of the State Medicaid Expansion Caucus. Members of the Caucus will highlight the need for recalcitrant states to expand Medicaid through floor speeches, op-eds, social media posts, discussions with their colleagues and constituents. \u201cExpanding Medicaid will ensure access to health care for millions of low-income Americans,\u201d said Johnson. \u201cIt will bring the security of health insurance to working people who are struggling to make ends meet. But it will also bring billions of dollars into each states economy as people go to work providing care and beneficiaries see improved health outcomes. The people who will benefit from expanding Medicaid are no less deserving of health care than anyone else.\u201d \u201cTwenty four states\u2019 decision to not accept billions of dollars in federal support defies logic and will prove catastrophic for the very people the Medicaid program is intended to help,\u201d said Rep. Butterfield.\u00a0 \u201cThe public is demanding action in states that have not expanded and members of the State Medicaid Expansion Caucus are tired of inaction.\u00a0 We will continue to press this issue until all 50 states have expanded Medicaid.\u201d \u00a0 The members were joined by representatives from healthcare advocacy groups, including: Families USA; Center on Budget and Policy Priorities; Coalition on Human Needs; the Catholic Health Association of the United States; and the Georgetown Center for Children and Families.\nMEMBERS: Johnson (GA, Co-Chair), Butterfield (Co-Chair), Wilson (FL), Sewell (AL), Hastings (FL), Garcia (FL), Grayson (FL), Pocan (FL), Brown (FL), Deutch (FL), Schwartz (PA), Scott (GA), Lewis (GA), Grijalva (AZ), Bishop (GA), Jackson Lee (TX), Cohen (TN), Green (TX), Clyburn (SC), Castor (FL), Wasserman Schultz (FL), Pingree (ME), Murphy (FL), Connolly (VA), Frankel (FL), Michaud (ME), Price (NC), Moran (VA), Clay (MS), Green (TX), Doggett (TX); Moore (WI), Richmond (LA), Waxman (CA). For more, go to http://facebook.com/medicaidexpansioncaucus. To read Rep. Johnson\u2019s op-ed in the Huffington Post on the new Caucus, click HERE. To view Rep. Johnson\u2019s floor speech announcing the Caucus, click HERE. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20140801054635/http://bishop.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-remembers-the-great-flood-of-1994", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP REMEMBERS THE GREAT FLOOD OF 1994", "2014-07-23", "2014", "2014-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford Bishop", "B000490", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ALBANY, GA\u00a0\u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement in remembrance of the damage caused by flooding from Tropical Storm Alberto in July of 1994.\n\u201cIt has been twenty years since the Great Flood of 1994, which claimed thirty-one lives and destroyed the homes and livelihoods of thousands of Americans. Memories of this devastating flood still linger in my mind as I consider the pain felt by those who suffered the loss of family, friends, and property.\n\u201cDespite these hardships, the resilient people of Middle and Southwest Georgia came together as a community to bravely assist in relief efforts; repairing homes, preparing meals, and acting as a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on in a time of great crisis. It was heartwarming to watch our community quickly spring to action and help each other find the essentials\u2014housing, food, and closure\u2014so that we could recover from the flood as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\u201cNow, two decades later, we must reflect on the rebuilding of our towns, our communities, and our spirits, rejoicing in the gifts God has given us. I am truly proud of the many friends and neighbors whose tenacity ensured that we would continue to strive and remain hopeful even in the darkest of times.\u201d\nTo read more on disaster preparedness, please click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 273, "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": "GA", "p2": "2014"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 273, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=GA&year=2014", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 273, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2014&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "GA", "label": "GA", "count": 273, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2014", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "2014", "label": "2014", "count": 273, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2014-07-23,https~3A~2F~2Fweb~2Earchive~2Eorg~2Fweb~2F20140801054635~2Fhttp~3A~2F~2Fbishop~2Ehouse~2Egov~2F~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-bishop-remembers-the-great-flood-of-1994", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2014&_next=2014-07-23%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fweb~2Earchive~2Eorg~2Fweb~2F20140801054635~2Fhttp~3A~2F~2Fbishop~2Ehouse~2Egov~2F~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-bishop-remembers-the-great-flood-of-1994&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 330.165954772383, "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"}