{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"IN\" and year = 2015 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/thank-you-for-a-great-2015", "Thank You for a Great 2015", "2015-12-31", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 31, 2015\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDear Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs your representative, itis a privilege torepresent you in Congress.Everyday Im working to bring your voice to our nations capital and make government work for you. With 2015 drawing to a close, here are afew highlights of what we were able to accomplish together over the past 12 months.It is an honor to work hard on behalf of you, your family, and our community.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHELPING HOOSIERS IS MY BIGGEST PRIORITY:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMy office is committed to be a place of service where your needs come first. Over the course of 2015, I am proud to let you know that we:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHelped over 900 Hoosiers who were having difficulties with federal or state agencies\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tResponded to over140,000 of your letters, phone calls, and emails\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHelped secure over $7,000,000 in federal grant money for nonprofit and community organizationswithin the 7th Congressional District\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHosted over 140 community meetings and events with residents including my annual job fair and youth opportunities fair\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t On the80th Anniversary of Social Security in August, Congressman Carson met with constituents to discuss ways his office could help with social security benefits.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPUTTING HOOSIERS BACK TO WORK: \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCreating jobs and putting Hoosiers back to work remains a priority for me. Earlier this year, my office hosted its sixth annual job fair that connected over 1200 residents with 138 employers from across Central Indiana.I have already heard from several participants who were able to get jobs as a result of this year's fair. \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn Washington, I am a strong supporter of the Make It In America agenda, which looks to strengthen American manufacturing and bring back jobs that were shipped overseas.Indianas economy has been improving, but we still need to make sure that all Hoosiers have an opportunity to find stable, well-paying jobs.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKEEPING HOOSIERS SAFE: \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs your representative and as a former law enforcement officer, keeping you and your family safe has always been my top priority.That is why I was so honored to be appointed to the House Intelligence Committee earlier this year.This appointment gives me an inside view of our efforts to protect our country and allows me to play a critical role in the fight against terrorism.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIt is an honor and a privilege to serve you. If I can do anything to assist you, please do not hesitate to contact my office.Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2016.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYour Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAndr", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-2016-town-forum-schedule", "Visclosky Announces 2016 Town Forum Schedule", "2015-12-31", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Today, Congressman Pete Visclosky announced the following 2016 schedule for Town Forums that will be held throughout Indianas First Congressional District. \nThursday  January 14, 2016\n10:00 a.m.  \n\tCrown Point Community Library  \n\t122 North Main Street  \n\tCrown Point, Indiana 46307\n12:00 p.m.  \n\tDyer Town Hall  \n\tOne Town Square  \n\tDyer, Indiana 46311\n2:00 p.m.  \n\tEast Chicago City Hall  Council Chambers  \n\t4525 Indianapolis Boulevard  \n\tEast Chicago, Indiana 46312\n4:00 p.m.  \n\tWicker Park Social Center  \n\t2215 Ridge Road  \n\tHighland, Indiana 46322\n6:00 p.m.  \n\tPurdue University Calumet  Student Union Library Building  Room with a View  \n\t2200 169th Street  \n\tHammond, Indiana 46323\nFriday  January 15, 2016\n10:00 a.m.  \n\tMichigan City  City Hall  Council Chambers  \n\t100 East Michigan Boulevard  \n\tMichigan City, Indiana 46360\n12:00 p.m.  \n\tChesterton Town Hall  \n\t726 Broadway  \n\tChesterton, Indiana 46304\n2:00 p.m.  \n\tPorter County Government Center  County Commissioners Chambers  \n\t155 Indiana Avenue  \n\tValparaiso, Indiana 46383\n4:00 p.m.  \n\tPortage City Hall  \n\t6070 Central Avenue  \n\tPortage, Indiana 46368\n6:00 p.m.  \n\tHobart Community Center  \n\t111 East Old Ridge Road  \n\tHobart, Indiana 46342\nSaturday  January 16, 2016\n12:00 p.m.  \n\tGary Public Library  Woodson Branch  \n\t501 South Lake Street  \n\tGary, Indiana 46403\n2:00 p.m.  \n\tMerrillville Town Hall  \n\t7820 Broadway  \n\tMerrillville, Indiana 46410\nPlease note that all times listed are Central Standard Time.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-calls-for-senate-aging-committee-to-investigate-exploitation-of-seniors-on-social-media", "Donnelly Calls for Senate Aging Committee to Investigate Exploitation of Seniors on Social Media", "2015-12-23", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Calls for Senate Aging Committee to Investigate Exploitation of Seniors on Social Media\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRecent report revealed nursing home workers posting embarrassing photos of seniors on social media networks\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 23, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tGranger, Ind.  Following a report that nursing home workers across the country have posted embarrassing and degrading photos of seniors on social media networks, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly today called on the Senate Aging Committee to investigate the issue. The ProPublica report found that since 2012 there have been approximately three-dozen cases around the country, including in Indiana, that violated the privacy and dignity of seniors, and in some instances, the law.\r\n\r\nDonnelly, who serves on the Senate Aging Committee, said, It is troubling and disturbing that some seniors are unwillingly and unknowingly victims of exploitation and abuse on social media by some nursing home workers. That is why I am asking the Aging Committee to use all appropriate tools and resources to investigate this issue.\r\n\r\nAmong the incidents cited in the report was the case of a former nursing assistant in Indiana. The formernursing assistant pleaded guilty to one count of voyeurism and served three days in jail for sharing an explicit photo of an elderly resident on Snapchat. The report was based on court cases, government inspection reports, and media reports.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-carson-votes-for-omnibus-appropriations-bill", "Rep. Carson Votes for Omnibus Appropriations Bill", "2015-12-18", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Rep. Andr Carson voted with many of his colleagues in the U.S House of Representatives to adopt, by a vote of 316 to 113, the FY 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill. This measure funds the government for the remainder of FY 2016. Today I voted to avert a disastrous government shutdown and to make vital investments in the future of Americas working families, Carson said. While the bill is not perfect, it is a bipartisan compromise that moves our country towards a more prosperous future.\n\nThe bills investments in priorities include the following:\n Overall Education: The bill restores the $2.5 billion cut in education that the GOP had proposed and also makes critical additional investments of $1.4 billion above 2015, in such areas as Title I that serves 24 million at-risk students.\n\tEarly Learning: Investing in Head Start produces results  and this bill invests nearly $400 million more than the House GOP bill and nearly $600 million more than 2015 in this vital initiative. The bill also provides $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, assisting 18 states across the country.\n\tMedical Research: Medical research at NIH has been underfunded for the last several years. This bill provides $900 million more than the House GOP bill and $2 billion more than 2015 for this life-saving research.\n\tInfrastructure: The popular TIGER grants are being used across the country to repair infrastructure and contribute to economic growth, this bill restores the funding to the 2015 level of $500 million.\n\tLaw Enforcement: The bill provides $187 million for COPS hiring grants, $7 million above the 2015 level and $187 million above the House GOP bill, which had eliminated the hiring grants. The bill also provides $80 million for the Community Policing Initiative, including $22.5 million for body-worn cameras and $15 million for Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation grants, an increase over the House bill.\n\tRenewable Energy: Provides a major boost to renewable energy by extending the wind Production Tax Credit for five years (through 2019), and extending the solar Investment Tax Credit for five years (through 2021), while phasing both credits down somewhat over time. Extending the solar tax credit is estimated to create 61,000 jobs in 2017 alone. It is also estimated that the wind industry will grow to over 100,000 jobs over four years with the renewed wind tax credit.\n\tEnergy Efficiency and Clean Energy R&D: Provides an 8 percent increase over 2015 for R&D activities in the pursuit of new clean energy and energy efficiency technologies.\n \nThe measure also does not include numerous ideological riders that would have had damaging impacts on Americas women, consumers, workers, and children such as:\n Limiting womens access to the full range of comprehensive health care services, by defunding Planned Parenthood.\n\tGutting the Dodd-Frank provisions that hold big Wall Street banks accountable.\n\tUndermining the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act, jeopardizing the health of our children and working families.\n\tPreventing additional action on climate change to reduce damaging carbon emissions.\n\tBlocking protections that allow workers to form unions and help them save for retirement.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-carson-votes-omnibus-appropriations-bill", "Rep. Carson Votes for Omnibus Appropriations Bill", "2015-12-18", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", "carson", "https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "December 18, 2015\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Andr\u00e9 Carson voted with many of his colleagues in the U.S House of Representatives to adopt, by a vote of 316 to 113, the FY 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill. This measure funds the government for the remainder of FY 2016.\n\n\"Today I voted to avert a disastrous government shutdown and to make vital investments in the future of America's working families,\" Carson said. \"While the bill is not perfect, it is a bipartisan compromise that moves our country towards a more prosperous future.\"\n\nThe bill's investments in priorities include the following:\n\nOverall Education: The bill restores the $2.5 billion cut in education that the GOP had proposed and also makes critical additional investments of $1.4 billion above 2015, in such areas as Title I that serves 24 million at-risk students.\n\nEarly Learning: Investing in Head Start produces results \u2013 and this bill invests nearly $400 million more than the House GOP bill and nearly $600 million more than 2015 in this vital initiative. The bill also provides $250 million for Preschool Development Grants, assisting 18 states across the country.\n\nMedical Research: Medical research at NIH has been underfunded for the last several years. This bill provides $900 million more than the House GOP bill and $2 billion more than 2015 for this life-saving research.\n\nInfrastructure: The popular TIGER grants are being used across the country to repair infrastructure and contribute to economic growth, this bill restores the funding to the 2015 level of $500 million.\n\nLaw Enforcement: The bill provides $187 million for COPS hiring grants, $7 million above the 2015 level and $187 million above the House GOP bill, which had eliminated the hiring grants. The bill also provides $80 million for the Community Policing Initiative, including $22.5 million for body-worn cameras and $15 million for Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation grants, an increase over the House bill.\n\nRenewable Energy: Provides a major boost to renewable energy by extending the wind Production Tax Credit for five years (through 2019), and extending the solar Investment Tax Credit for five years (through 2021), while phasing both credits down somewhat over time. Extending the solar tax credit is estimated to create 61,000 jobs in 2017 alone. It is also estimated that the wind industry will grow to over 100,000 jobs over four years with the renewed wind tax credit.\n\nEnergy Efficiency and Clean Energy R&D: Provides an 8 percent increase over 2015 for R&D activities in the pursuit of new clean energy and energy efficiency technologies.\n\nThe measure also does not include numerous ideological riders that would have had damaging impacts on America's women, consumers, workers, and children such as:\n\nLimiting women's access to the full range of comprehensive health care services, by defunding Planned Parenthood.\n\nGutting the Dodd-Frank provisions that hold big Wall Street banks accountable.\n\nUndermining the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act, jeopardizing the health of our children and working families.\n\nPreventing additional action on climate change to reduce damaging carbon emissions.\n\nBlocking protections that allow workers to form unions and help them save for retirement.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:33:33Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/indiana-lawmakers-cheer-suspension-of-medical-device-tax", "Indiana lawmakers cheer suspension of medical device tax", "2015-12-18", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Indiana lawmakers cheer suspension of medical device tax\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\r\n                    Erin Blasko\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Friday, December 18, 2015\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            SOUTH BEND  Local members of Congress are cheering the two-year suspension of the medical device tax in a proposed $650 billion tax package that overwhelming passed the House on Thursday.\r\nA provision in the package, which the president has promised to sign, would suspend the 2.3 percent tax on the sale of medical devices, a key component of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, through 2017.\r\nMedical device manufacturers, including those in Warsaw, the Orthopaedic Capital of the World, have long opposed the tax, which they say hampers job growth and discourages innovation.\r\nIndiana is home to more than 300 medical device companies, and the industry employs more than 20,000 Hoosiers, including about 10,000 in Warsaw, home to Zimmer Biomet, DePuy Orthopaedics and Medtronic, among other firms.\r\nThis is a big win today to get (the tax) delayed by two years. For job creation, job growth, and job security, its a big win, U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski, R-Jimtown, said following Thursdays 318-109 vote in the House.\r\nLike Walorski, Sens. Dan Coats and Joe Donnelly also support suspension of the tax.\r\nI am pleased there is bipartisan consensus to suspend the medical device tax for two years, and that it has been included in the proposed tax relief package, Donnelly, D-Ind., said in a statement this week.\r\nSuspending the device tax would make a difference for Hoosier businesses and workers, as well as patients who use these medical products, Donnelly said.\r\nCoats, R-Ind., referred to the tax as egregious.\r\nThis bad policy is unfairly punishing a successful industry that provides good jobs to thousands of Hoosiers and enhances the lives of patients around the world, Coats said.\r\nAll three lawmakers vowed to push for a full repeal of the tax.\r\nKathy Heuer, executive director of the Indiana Medical Device Manufacturers Council, welcomed the effort Thursday.\r\nNormally a tax of that kind is a punitive tax, like we have on cigarettes and alcohol, and for our industry to be singled out in this particular way we feel is very unfair, Heuer said.\r\nHeuer cited a report from the Joint Committee on Taxation showing suspension of the tax would save the medical device industry $3.9 billion over two years.\r\nThe tax package also extends a research and development tax credit that is important to the industry, Heuer said, as well as to manufacturers in general.\r\nWith Thursdays action in the House, the package now moves to the Senate for consideration, where it will be folded into a larger budget bill in advance of an expected vote today.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-suspending-medical-device-tax-will-help-spur-economic-growth-job-creation-and-innovation", "Donnelly: Suspending Medical Device Tax Will Help Spur Economic Growth, Job Creation, and Innovation", "2015-12-18", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Suspending Medical Device Tax Will Help Spur Economic Growth, Job Creation, and Innovation\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tA longtime supporter of repealing the medical device tax, Senator voted for a two-year suspension of the tax that now heads to the Presidents desk\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 18, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly voted for a two-year suspension of the medical device excise tax, which was included as part of a larger bipartisan tax relief and government funding agreement that passed the Senate 65-33. The package has already passed the House and now heads to President Obamas desk to be signed into law.\r\nDonnelly said, Suspending the medical device tax for two years will help spur growth and innovation in Indianas life sciences and manufacturing sectors, supporting good jobs for Hoosiers  and is only possible because we have worked tirelessly to create bipartisan consensus in both the Senate and the House. This will make a real difference for hard working Indiana families, businesses in our state, and patients who use these medical products.\r\nKathy Heuer, Executive Director of Indiana Medical Device Manufacturers Council said, This is a win for patients worldwide. With a two-year moratorium on the medical device tax and a permanent R&D tax credit, Indiana companies will be able to re-invest in research & development and ensure that we continue to improve therapies and patient safety, help lower the cost of American healthcare and expand high-paying jobs for Hoosiers. We thank Senator Donnelly for his leadership and support on this bipartisan and bicameral issue. He has continued to be a strong supporter of our industry.\r\nSteve Ferguson, Chairman, Cook Group, said, On behalf of Cook Medical, I would like to express the importance of Congress suspending the Medical Device Excise Tax as part of the bipartisan package passed today. For the last three years, that tax has placed a tremendous financial burden on our company, increasing our U.S. tax liability by more than 30%. We had planned to build five new plants in the Midwest but have had no choice but to put those plans on hold. Indeed, the amount of the excise tax we have been paying each year is about the same amount that is needed to build a plant. The two year suspension will enable us to begin expanding again and providing new jobs for American workers. During this time we will look forward to working with Congressional leaders to repeal the tax altogether.We are very grateful that the Indiana delegation worked so hard to address the device tax, and we are proud that our Senators, Joe Donnelly and Dan Coats, worked as bi-partisan leaders and were instrumental in securing Senate approval of this important provision.\r\nIndiana is home to many innovative medical device companies, which together employ about 20,000 Hoosiers. The medical device industry accounts for more than 40 percent of the jobs in Indianas life sciences industry, making Indiana the fifth-largest state in the country in percentage of medical technology sector jobs, accordingto a 2012 BioCrossroadsreport. The same report found that the states medical device industry generated more than $10 billion of annual economic output. BioCrossroads announced inFebruary 2014that Indiana ranked second in the nation in export of life science products, which include medical device products.\r\nDonnelly has been a longtime supporter of repealing the medical device tax. Earlier this year he joined a bipartisan group of senators in reintroducing bipartisan legislation to repeal the medical device tax.\r\nUnder the Senate-passed legislation, the 2.3 percent medical device tax will be suspended from January 1, 2016, through December 31, 2017. Products subject to the tax include items ranging from surgical drapes and catheters to advanced imaging equipment.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-nominates-indianapolis-resident-for-white-house-champions-of-change-recognition", "Donnelly Nominates Indianapolis Resident for White House ‘Champions of Change’ Recognition", "2015-12-17", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Nominates Indianapolis Resident for White House Champions of Change Recognition\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tJustin Phillips has been strong advocate in fight against heroin epidemic in Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 17, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly announced that he has nominated Justin Phillips of Indianapolis for the White Houses Champions of Change initiative in recognition of her continued work in the fight against Indianas prescription opioid abuse and heroin use epidemic. After losing her 20-year old son, Aaron Sims, to a heroin overdose in 2013, Justin has become a leading voice for families facing addiction through her efforts to advance prevention, treatment, and recovery services in Indiana.\r\nDonnelly said, Justins determination and effort over the past year are proof of the power that a dedicated individual has to effect change in her community. Justins efforts on behalf of Hoosier families, in memory of her son, are making an extraordinary difference in Central Indiana and across the state. Its going to take all of us  federal, state, and local officials, and smart, committed Hoosiers like Justin to raise awareness about drug addiction and effectively combat it. Justin Phillips exemplifies the qualities of a true Champion of Change, and I am proud to recommend her for this honor.\r\nPhillips said, I am truly humbled to be nominated as a Champion of Change by Senator Donnelly and thank him for his continued support of our efforts at Overdose Lifeline, Inc.Since the death of my son and the creation of the foundation soon after, I have met far too many families who have experienced a journey similar to my own.Though personal, our experiences are unfortunately not unique. We know that the epidemic of opioid abuse found within our own Hoosier state is also sweeping through countless other communities across our country. That is why I continue to work tirelessly to fight for those still battling opioid addictions in hopes of giving them and their families a second chance at a life.By doing so, I am able to channel my grief into something positive.It is what Aaron, my deeply caring, empathic, loving son would have done as well if he had more time with us.\r\nIn 2014, Justin founded the non-profit Overdose Lifeline to help purchase naloxone, an opioid reversal drug, for first-responders in the Indianapolis area. She also worked with Indiana legislators on a bill known as Aarons Law to expand access to naloxone prescriptions for others beyond first responders. After months of advocacy, Aarons Law was enacted in April 2015.\r\nThrough her work with Overdose Lifeline, Justin has also focused on providing educational resources and support events for families and individuals impacted by heroin addiction. Overdose Lifeline has developed an educational program to inform high school students about the risks of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use, and has also hosted several free training and distribution events to provide naloxone to first-responders and the general public in Central Indiana.\r\nDonnelly has been working to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics in Indiana and across the country.Hereintroduced the bipartisanHeroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Actwith Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) in April this year; hosted abipartisan roundtable discussionat IUPUI withU.S. Representative Susan Brooks (IN-05), Indiana and federal health officials, doctors, and pharmacists to hear directly from Hoosiers about best practices to help curb the opioid-abuse epidemic; and made recommendations in a letter to the Governors Drug Task Force, providing suggestions for short- and long-term responses to Indianas addiction problems. Last month, the Protecting our Infants Act to help newborns suffering from opioid withdrawal and painful symptoms associated with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), which Donnelly cosponsored and helped pass the Senate, was signed into law by President Obama.\r\nBoth state and federal officials are acting on some of the bipartisan policies Donnelly has advocated for, including improving prescribing practices and enhancing prescriber engagement, raising public awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse and heroin use, and better utilizing prescription drug monitoring programs at the state level.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/secretary-of-the-air-force-visits-grissom", "Secretary of the Air Force visits Grissom", "2015-12-16", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE  The most top ranking Air Force official received an up-close tour of Grissom Air Reserve Base Wednesday to see its infrastructure firsthand and to meet with the men and women of the 434th Air Refueling Wing.\r\nSecretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James toured the base following an invitation from U.S. Sen. Joe Donnelly, who was also at the base Wednesday.\r\n\r\nDonnelly said the tour was meant to demonstrate the vital role the base plays in national security.\r\nThis was an important opportunity to show Secretary James all that Grissom has to offer and the critical role Grissom plays in supporting our war fighters, he said in a press release. The base has a strategic location, excellent infrastructure and the unwavering support of Hoosiers.\r\nThe tour came after Grissom was not selected to house the Air Forces newest fleet of refueling planes.\r\nGrissom was one of four bases being considered to house the first Reserve-led KC-46A Pegasus unit, which is replacing the Air Forces aging fleet of aerial tankers.\r\nRepresentatives such as Donnelly, Rep. Jackie Walorski and Rep. Todd Rokita tried to convince Air Force officials to bring the unit to Grissom, including meeting with James.\r\nOfficials ended up choosing Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina as the preferred main operating base for the KC-46A unit.\r\nJames said Wednesday she had met with Donnelly several times to discuss the base and its role in the Air Force, and it was great spending some time with them today and getting to personally thank them for their service.\r\n\r\n\r\nOf course they couldn't do what they do without the tremendous support from the community, and for that I say thank you to the wonderful people of the Hoosier state, she said in a release.\r\nCol. Doug Schwartz, 434th Air Refueling Wing commander, said everyone at the base was thrilled to have James and Donnelly visit Grissom to meet the men and women of the Hoosier Wing and see firsthand the outstanding facilities that we have here, as well as learn more about our mission and capabilities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/air-force-secretary-visits-grissom-air-reserve-base-with-donnelly", "Air Force Secretary Visits Grissom Air Reserve Base with Donnelly", "2015-12-16", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Air Force Secretary Visits Grissom Air Reserve Base with Donnelly\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator, Secretary James, and Grissom leadership discuss bases current mission and importance of its role in our national defense for years to come\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 16, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tGrissom Air Reserve Base, Ind.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly and Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James visited Grissom Air Reserve Base (ARB) to see its infrastructure firsthand and to meet with the men and women of the 434th Air Refueling Wing (ARW). Donnelly, Secretary James, and Grissom officials discussed the strong value of the bases current mission and its importance to supporting the Air Force and contributing to our national security needs. Secretary James visit followed invitations from Donnelly to tour Grissom ARB.\r\n\r\nSenator Donnelly with Secretary James and Colonel Schwartz at Grissom ARB\r\nDonnelly, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee said, This was an important opportunity to show Secretary James all that Grissom has to offer and the critical role Grissom plays in supporting our war fighters. Grissom is home to one of our nations finest Air Force teams with the dedicated men and women of the 434th Air Refueling Wing. The base has a strategic location, excellent infrastructure, and the unwavering support of Hoosiers. I am confident that Grissom will continue to play a large and growing role in our national defense for decades to come, and I will continue to work to ensure the Air Force recognizes the tremendous asset they have here in Indiana.\r\nSecretary James said, Senator Donnelly and I have met several times to discuss the fantastic Airmen of the 434th Air Refueling Wing and the critical role they play in the Air Force's mission. It was great spending some time with them today and getting to personally thank them for their service. Of course they couldn't do what they do without the tremendous support from the community and for that I say thank you to the wonderful people of the Hoosier state.\r\nCol. Doug Schwartz, 434th Air Refueling Wing commander, said, We were thrilled to have Secretary James and Senator Donnelly visit Grissom Air Reserve Base. We were excited for Secretary James to meet the men and women of the Hoosier Wing and see first-hand the outstanding facilities that we have here as well as learn more about our mission and capabilities. We are also very grateful to Senator Donnelly for his support to the Airmen here and for his involvement in bringing Secretary James to Grissom.\r\nIn October 2015, Donnelly sent a letter to Secretary James inviting her to tour Grissom ARB. Donnelly has been a vocal advocate on behalf of Grissom, emphasizing to the Air Force leadership and Secretary James the strengths of the base and the 434th ARW, including its sterling reputation, experience and expertise, infrastructure, and strong local support.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-welcomes-inclusion-of-two-year-suspension-of-medical-device-tax-in-proposed-bipartisan-tax-relief-package", "Donnelly Welcomes Inclusion of Two-Year Suspension of Medical Device Tax in Proposed Bipartisan Tax Relief Package", "2015-12-16", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Welcomes Inclusion of Two-Year Suspension of Medical Device Tax in Proposed Bipartisan Tax Relief Package\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 16, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly welcomed the inclusion of a two-year suspension of the medical device tax in the proposed bipartisan tax relief agreement, which was released last night. Congress is expected to begin considering the tax relief package later this week.\r\nDonnelly said, I am pleased there is bipartisan consensus to suspend the medical device tax for two years, and that it has been included in the proposed tax relief package. Its important to encourage job growth and innovation in our life sciences and manufacturing sectors, including the medical device industry. Suspending the device tax would make a difference for Hoosier businesses and workers, as well as patients who use these medical products.\r\nDonnelly is a longtime supporter of repealing the medical device tax, and earlier this year joined a bipartisan group of senators in reintroducing bipartisan legislation to repeal the medical device tax.\r\nIndiana is home to many innovative medical device companies, which together employ about 20,000 Hoosiers. The medical device industry accounts for more than 40 percent of the jobs in Indianas life sciences industry, making Indiana the fifth-largest state in the country in percentage of medical technology sector jobs, accordingto a 2012 BioCrossroadsreport. The same report found that the states medical device industry generated more than $10 billion of annual economic output. BioCrossroads announced inFebruary 2014that Indiana ranked second in the nation in export of life science products, which include medical device products.\r\nA 2.3 percent medical device tax went into effect on January 1, 2013, under the Affordable Care Act. Currently, the tax is levied on the sale price of any medical device as defined by the Food and Drug Administration. Products subject to the tax include items ranging from surgical drapes and catheters to advanced imaging equipment.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/article/donnelly-ranks-high-for-bipartisanship", "Donnelly ranks high for bipartisanship", "2015-12-15", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly ranks high for bipartisanship\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\r\n                    Brian Francisco\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Tuesday, December 15, 2015\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Sen. Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., was the fourth-most-bipartisan U.S. senator from 1993 through 2014, according to rankings released Tuesday by the Lugar Center and the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University.\r\nTheir Bipartisan Index measures how often a senator co-sponsors legislation by members of the other political party and how often a senator's own bills are co-sponsored by members of the other party.\r\nFormer Republican senator Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island, who later became an independent and then a Democrat, had the most bipartisan lifetime score of 2.22.\r\nThe highest lifetime score by a current senator was 1.57 for Maine Republican Susan Collins, good for second place overall. Donnelly's 1.46 score was second-highest among current senators.\r\n\"My responsibility is to do what is right for Hoosiers no matter which party an idea may come from. I believe we are stronger and more effective when we work together, and when we prioritize bipartisan efforts we can get things done that will help Indiana and our country,\" Donnelly said Tuesday in a statement about the ratings.\r\nRepublican Sen. Dan Coats of Indiana received a score of minus 1.07, placing him 214th of the 227 senators who were ranked.\r\n\"Senator Coats has been elected to Congress eight times to represent the people of Indiana, and he believes his legislative record reflects the views of Hoosiers,\" Matt Lahr, communications director for Coats, said Tuesday in an email.\r\nCoats, a former House member, has been in the Senate for 10 of the years covered by the index, compared with two years for Donnelly, who also served in the House.\r\nFormer GOP senator Jim DeMint of South Carolina was the least-bipartisan since 1993 with a score of minus 1.86, according to the index, and his successor, GOP Sen. Tim Scott, posted the second-lowest score of minus 1.74.\r\nRichard Lugar, a former 36-year senator from Indiana and founder of the Lugar Center, a nonprofit think tank, was in 24th place with a score of 0.66. The Lugar Center and the McCourt School said in a news release that any score above zero is \"a good score.\"\r\nFormer Democratic senator Evan Bayh of Indiana ranked 61st with a score of 0.33.\r\nAmong the 2016 presidential candidates who have served in the Senate, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina ranked 122nd; Republican Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania, 145th; Democrat Hillary Clinton of New York, 156th; Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, 170th; independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who is running as a Democrat, 217th; Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, 222nd; and Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, 224th.\r\nVice President Joe Biden of Delaware came in at 37th for his time in the Senate, and President Barack Obama of Illinois was in 165th place for his.\r\nRankings for House members will be released next year, according to the Lugar Center and the McCourt School.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnellys-bipartisanship-recognized-by-lugar-center-mccourt-school-of-public-policy-at-georgetown", "Donnelly’s Bipartisanship Recognized by Lugar Center, McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown", "2015-12-15", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnellys Bipartisanship Recognized by Lugar Center, McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRated fourth-most bipartisan senator and most bipartisan Democrat based on new lifetime rankings\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 15, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  The Lugar Center and the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University rated U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly the fourth-most bipartisan U.S. Senator and most bipartisan Democrat, according to a new Bipartisan Index released today that measures the bipartisanship of Senators from 1993 to 2014. See the full Senate rankings here. Earlier this year, in May 2015, the Lugar Center and the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown announced Donnelly ranked as the third-most bipartisan U.S. Senator during the 113th Congress.\r\nDonnelly said, My responsibility is to do what is right for Hoosiers no matter which party an idea may come from. I believe we are stronger and more effective when we work together, and when we prioritize bipartisan efforts we can get things done that will help Indiana and our country.\r\nDonnelly has worked continuously with colleagues across the aisle. Provisions from Donnellys bipartisan Servicemember and Mental Health Care Package, co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Wicker (R-MS), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and John Boozman (R-AR) were recently signed into law as part of the national defense bill. To address opioid addiction and heroin use, Donnelly has worked to advance the principles included in the bipartisan bill he introduced with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) and has seen promising movement on these efforts. He also has pushed to advance a number of bipartisan bills, including legislation that wouldaddress the Waters of the U.S. rule and empower student borrowers and establish best practices for improving financial literacy skills. Among his successful bipartisan efforts last year, Donnellys Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act was signed into law.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-supports-legislation-to-combat-illegal-steel-imports", "Visclosky Supports Legislation to Combat Illegal Steel Imports", "2015-12-11", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC Today, Congressman Pete Visclosky supported the conference agreement for H.R. 644, the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015. The House of Representatives approved the measure by a vote of 256 to 158.\nThe conference agreement for H.R. 644 includes provisions requested in a Steel Caucus letter sent on November 20, 2015, and signed by 40 Members of Congress. Specifically, the conference agreement will establish new tools and processes for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to act against the evasion of anti-dumping and countervailing duty orders.\nCongressman Pete Visclosky stated, I am pleased that the leaders of the Ways and Means Committee and Congressional leadership have responded to the call of the Congressional Steel Caucus. This legislation will improve the ability of the CBP to enforce our trade laws and provide American steelworkers with additional tools to fight back against illegal steel imports. We must do all we can to tell countries around the world that the United States does not tolerate illegal trade.\nThomas J. Gibson, President and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute, said, We applaud the efforts of Rep. Visclosky for his leadership in ensuring that strong language was included in the customs bill to make sure duties are being accurately assessed and collected at the border.The steelworkers of Indiana and the nation are fortunate that the work of Rep. Visclosky will enable Customs and Border Protection officials to address concerns when foreign companies avoid duty payment. Rep. Visclosky once again has successfully championed the issues that are critical to the steel industry, and we are grateful.\nFor a copy of the Steel Caucus letter, click here.\nFor additional information on the conference agreement, click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-on-vietnam-veterans-we-must-deliver-on-our-promise-to-care-for-all-veterans-long-after-their-last-day-in-uniform", "Donnelly on Vietnam Veterans: “We Must Deliver on our Promise to Care for All Veterans Long After Their Last Day in Uniform”", "2015-12-11", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly on Vietnam Veterans: We Must Deliver on our Promise to Care for All Veterans Long After Their Last Day in Uniform\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tIn floor speech marking 40th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, Senator recognizes Hoosier Vietnam War veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 11, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly gave a speech on the Senate floor yesterday evening to recognize the service and sacrifice of Indiana servicemembers during the Vietnam War. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the end of the war. More than 1,200 Hoosier soldiers gave their lives in service to our country. Nearly 150,000 Vietnam War veterans currently live in Indiana.\r\nDonnelly said during his speech, At the end of the war, many of our Vietnam veterans didnt receive the welcome home or the recognition they deservedOur Vietnam vets deserve to be held, and are held, in the same high regard as those who fought in World War I, World War II, Korea, Afghanistan, IraqOur Vietnam veterans support and lead our communities as public servants, teachers, lawyers, nurses, business owners, factory workers, bankers, just about anything you can imagine  thats what our Vietnam vets are doing to make our country a greater place...They are a generation of veterans who have taught us about love of country and service and who deserve to be honored for their selflessness and sacrifice.\r\nWe have a responsibility to provide them with the benefits and support they have earned, and to show them the same commitment they demonstrated while they fought to protect us and our freedoms more than four decades agoIn recognition of their service and sacrifice, we must deliver on our promise to care for all veterans long after their last day in uniform.\r\n\r\nTo watch Donnellys full remarks click here.\r\nDonnelly, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, has been a consistent advocate for ensuring that every servicemember, veteran, and their family receive the gratitude and benefits they have earned.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/donnelly-speaks-on-senate-floor-to-honor-hoosier-vietnam-war-veterans", "Donnelly Speaks on Senate Floor to Honor Hoosier Vietnam War Veterans", "2015-12-10", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Speaks on Senate Floor to Honor Hoosier Vietnam War Veterans \n            Donnelly spoke on the floor of the United States Senate to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War and to honor the service and sacrifice of Hoosier Vietnam veterans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-on-military-suicides-acceptable-number-is-zero", "Donnelly on Military Suicides: “Acceptable Number is Zero”", "2015-12-10", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly on Military Suicides: Acceptable Number is Zero\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator discussed his efforts at the Atlantic Council including bipartisan Care Package and Jacob Sexton Act that have been signed into law \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 10, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly discussed his successful legislative efforts aimed at preventing military suicide and improving mental health care for servicemembers, as the featured special guest at an Atlantic Council event, How Congress Should Take Care of Those Who Serve Our Country. Donnelly has worked the past three years to advance commonsense, bipartisan legislation through his role on the Senate Armed Services Committee. His bipartisan Servicemember and Veterans Mental Health Care Package (Care Package) recently was signed into law as part of the national defense bill and will improve military mental health care quality and access for servicemembers.\r\nDonnelly said, The acceptable number of suicides is zero, because that one person is somebodys Dad, its somebodys Mom, its somebodys brother or sister, is someone who served in Iraq and came home, helped build their local church. The heroes are these men and women who serve every single day.\r\n\r\nDonnellys Care Package seeks to improve care through three avenues: community providers, direct care providers, and the training of physician assistants. The Care Package builds on the progress made by DonnellysJacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law late last year. The Sexton Act  named for Hoosier Jacob Sexton, a National Guardsman who took his life in 2009  for the first time requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembers including Active, Guard, and Reserve. Donnellys efforts have come as more servicemembers are being lost to suicide than to combat.\r\nLast year, 443 servicemembers were lost to suicide, making it the third consecutive year that suicides surpassed combat casualties. Through the first six months of 2015, more than 200 servicemembers were lost to suicide, according to the Pentagon.\r\nTo learn more about the Care Packageclick here, and for more information about the Jacob Sexton Act, click here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-helps-senate-pass-bipartisan-bill-to-end-flawed-no-child-left-behind-law-increase-local-control-of-education", "Donnelly Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Bill to End Flawed No Child Left Behind Law, Increase Local Control of Education", "2015-12-09", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Bill to End Flawed No Child Left Behind Law, Increase Local Control of Education\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tEvery Student Succeeds Act would authorize federal grants to expand pre-K access, and includes provisions similar to initiative Senator promoted that would encourage family engagement in early-childhood learning\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 9, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly helped the Senate pass the Every Student Succeeds Act, legislation that would reform the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and end the flawed federal one-size-fits-all No Child Left Behind policies by allowing states to design systems to identify and support schools that need improvement. The bill also includes provisions similar to those authored by Donnelly that would promote parent and family engagement in early childhood learning. The bill would also authorize Preschool Development Grants that states could compete for to increase access, improve, and coordinate their pre-K programs. The Every Student Succeeds Act now heads to President Obamas desk after the Senate passed it on a bipartisan 85-12 vote, as it previously passed in the House.\r\nDonnelly said, It is time we move beyond the failed policies of the No Child Left Behind era. I am pleased the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act would empower and give communities, parents, and teachers the ability to work with school districts and states to ensure that every child receives a quality education. A good education not only lays a foundation for our students to reach their potential but helps increase economic opportunity for Americans and Hoosiers.\r\nI am also pleased that the Every Student Succeeds Act includes federal preschool development grants, which would expand pre-K to more children. I stand ready to work with educators, local partners, and officials at the federal, state, and local levels to expand access to preschool programs. Access to early childhood education is critically important for Hoosier families in every part of our state.\r\nCarrie Bale, Executive Director of BY5 in Delaware County said, Delaware County, Indiana and BY5 partners are pleased with the ESEA reauthorization with regards to the historic support for components directly tied to high-quality preschool, parent engagement and early literacy initiatives.This bill would not only allow but strongly encourages school systems to include and embed early learning into the continuum of learning that begins before children enter school. The bill also says that the opportunities for education should not be dictated by the zip code in which a child is born into, but be provided to all children who need it most. ESEA will provide the necessary impetus for schools in Indiana to partner with, develop and include more high quality preschool opportunities for children who will be the future workforce for Indiana, and increase the current dismal ranking of 43rd in the nation for the number of children ages 3 and 4 who are enrolled in preschool in Indiana. BY5 and the Delaware County citizens are excited for the positive impact the passage of ESEA will have for the future of our community.\r\nIn addition to initiatives related to early childhood education and reforming the No Child Left Behind law, the Every Student Succeeds Act would:\r\n \r\nProvide resources to states and school districts to support teachers, principals, and other educators, so they can implement programs for new teachers, provide ongoing professional development, and recruit new educators to the profession;\r\nReauthorize the 21stCentury Community Learning Centers afterschool program to provide academic and enrichment activities for students;\r\nSupport rural schools by providing more flexible use of federal funding to enable rural school districts to more effectively implement programs;\r\nHelp states to improve low-performing schools; and\r\nRestore states responsibility for determining how to use federally-required tests.\r\n \r\nDonnelly has supported efforts to expand access to early childhood education. Last year, Indiana Governor Mike Pence chose not to apply for a federal Preschool Development Grant to expand voluntary, high-quality pre-K to Hoosier children despite being eligible to receive up to $80 million in funding, prompting Donnelly to express his disappointment at the Governor's decision. Last month, the Indianapolis Star reported that thousands of Hoosier families had been turned away from pre-K due to lack of funding, and Donnelly again expressed his displeasure.\r\nDonnellyspoke on the floor of the U.S. Senatein July 2015 about the importance of early childhood education and parent and family engagement in early childhood learning.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-carson-comments-on-trump-s-continued-anti-muslim-rhetoric", "Rep. Carson Comments on Trumps Continued Anti-Muslim Rhetoric", "2015-12-08", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Today, Rep. Andr Carson (D-IN), the first Muslim Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement:\nI am deeply troubled by the anti-Muslim rhetoric used by Donald Trump in his campaign for President. It is disturbing that a man seeking the highest office in the land, would exploit recent terrorist attacks to advance his own political agenda. At a time when incidents of hate and violence against American Muslims are on the rise, these provocative statements are highly irresponsible.\nFar too often our candidates play to fears and prejudices. A true leader rises above this and focuses on the potential of all Americans to move our country forward.\nAnti-Muslim rhetoric has gone far enough. Its time for all of our leaders, in both parties, to denounce it and present a vision that unites us all.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-carson-comments-trumps-continued-anti-muslim-rhetoric", "Rep. Carson Comments on Trump\u2019s Continued Anti-Muslim Rhetoric", "2015-12-08", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", "carson", "https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Rep. Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN), the first Muslim Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement:\n\n\"I am deeply troubled by the anti-Muslim rhetoric used by Donald Trump in his campaign for President. It is disturbing that a man seeking the highest office in the land, would exploit recent terrorist attacks to advance his own political agenda. At a time when incidents of hate and violence against American Muslims are on the rise, these provocative statements are highly irresponsible.\n\n\"Far too often our candidates play to fears and prejudices. A true leader rises above this and focuses on the potential of all Americans to move our country forward.\n\n\"Anti-Muslim rhetoric has gone far enough. It's time for all of our leaders, in both parties, to denounce it and present a vision that unites us all.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:33:33Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-presses-va-on-prescription-practices-guidelines-for-controlled-substances", "Donnelly Presses VA on Prescription Practices, Guidelines for Controlled Substances", "2015-12-08", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Presses VA on Prescription Practices, Guidelines for Controlled Substances\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator sends letter to VA Secretary expressing concern about prescribing practices and pain management policies to address opioid addiction crisis, asks questions in light of federal inspection of the Marion, Indiana Veterans Affairs Medical Center\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 8, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly pressed the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on VAs current prescription practices and guidelines for controlled substances.In a letter sent to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Bob McDonald today, Donnelly asked about steps at the federal level to address prescribing practices and how increased training for prescribers can help Indiana address its opioid addition crisis. Following the recent Drug Enforcement Administrations inspection of the Marion, Indiana Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Donnelly asked a number of questions about the VAs efforts related to prescribing opioids to veterans. Among Donnellys questions, he asked about how the VA ensures patient safety and whether complaints have been received about opioid prescribing practices in Indiana, and if so what actions have been taken to address them.\r\nDonnelly wrote, in part:\r\nI am deeply concerned about the epidemic of opioid addiction and overdose death that is devastating families both in Indiana and across the country. In light of the Drug Enforcement Administration inspection of Marion, Indiana Veteran Affairs Medical Center, I am particularly interested in the VAs efforts to ensure that all of its prescribers comply with the Controlled Substances Act requirements and are using evidence based practices for prescribing controlled substances.\r\nAddiction, especially the recent increase in prescription drug abuse and heroin use, impacts Hoosiers in all corners of our state from our largest cities to rural communities. As Senator, I have met with too many families who are struggling to find appropriate treatment services for a loved one in need. The epidemic has touched our children, adults, and even our veterans. While there is no easy solution, there are steps that we can take to enhance our prevention efforts so that fewer families will suffer from addiction or the untimely death of a loved one.\r\nFor nearly two years, Donnelly has been working to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics in Indiana and across the country, by listening to Hoosiers, introducing bipartisan legislation, partnering with federal, state, and local officials, and bringing together stakeholders. He reintroduced the bipartisan Heroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Act with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) in April. Their bill would take a multi-pronged approach to help prevent opioid abuse and heroin use. Earlier this year, Senator Donnelly and U.S. Representative Susan Brooks (IN-05) hosted a bipartisan roundtable discussion at IUPUI with Indiana and federal health officials, doctors, and pharmacists to hear directly from Hoosiers about best practices to help curb the opioid-abuse epidemic. Donnelly made recommendations in a letter to the Governors Drug Task Force, providing suggestions for short- and long-term responses to Indianas addiction problems. In addition to offering specific suggestions to the Task Force, Donnelly emphasized that any strategy to address addiction in Indiana will require the State to not only identify necessary policy changes, but also make a commitment to implementing and funding those changes moving forward.\r\nBoth state and federal officials are acting on some of the bipartisan policies Donnelly has advocated for, including improving prescribing practices and enhancing prescriber engagement, raising public awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse and heroin use, and better utilizing prescription drug monitoring programs at the state level.\r\nFull text of Donnellys letter follows. To see the signed letter, click here.\r\nDecember 8, 2015\r\nThe Honorable Robert A. McDonald\r\nSecretary\r\nDepartment of Veterans Affairs   810 Vermont Avenue, Northwest   Washington DC 20420\r\nDear Secretary McDonald:\r\nI am writing you in regard to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) current policy on the prescription practices and guidelines for controlled substances. I am deeply concerned about the epidemic of opioid addiction and overdose death that is devastating families both in Indiana and across the country. In light of the Drug Enforcement Administrations inspection of Marion, Indiana Veteran Affairs Medical Center, I am particularly interested in the VAs efforts to ensure that all of its prescribers comply with the Controlled Substances Act requirements and are using evidence based practices for prescribing controlled substances.\r\nAddiction, especially the recent increase in prescription drug abuse and heroin use, impacts Hoosiers in all corners of our state from our largest cities to rural communities. As Senator, I have met with too many families who are struggling to find appropriate treatment services for a loved one in need. The epidemic has touched our children, adults, and even our veterans.\r\nWhile there is no easy solution, there are steps that we can take to enhance our prevention efforts so that fewer families will suffer from addiction or the untimely death of a loved one. That is why in 2014, I introduced the Heroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Act, with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), and reintroduced similar legislation in April of this year. Our bill establishes an interagency task force to develop best practice guidelines for prescribing opioid pain medication and would further enable the development of state prescription drug monitoring programs. Since introducing this legislation, I have been working with my colleagues, federal agency partners, as well as state and local officials to advance these policy priorities.\r\nMore Americans now die every year from drug overdoses than they do in motor vehicle crashes and the majority of those overdoses involve prescription medications. To address this crisis this October, the President issued a Presidential Memorandum directing Federal Departments and Agencies to ensure that health care professional who prescribe opioids are properly trained in opioid prescribing. Your leadership has been recognized to lead a research initiative to evaluate non-opioid alternative approaches to pain management. Further, the Department of Defense and Department of Veteran Affairs have been tasked with developing a standardized pain management curriculum for widespread use in education and training programs.\r\n \r\nWhat type of policy and/or process improvement initiatives has the Veteran Health Administration implemented in order to comply with the Controlled Substance Act or Presidential Memorandum?\r\nWhat are the challenges to implementing initiatives to address this crisis and ensure the highest level of patient safety?\r\nWhat expanded role will the VAs Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Department play in the comprehensive evidence based pain management of our Veterans?\r\nAre these CAM capabilities available in Indiana? If not, is there a planned timeline for implementation?\r\nDo you have an internal and external mechanism to receive complaints and suggestions at all VA facilities in Indiana? How are they managed to ensure that Senior Executives are notified of these reports? Do you have a specific metric that causes immediate processing to the highest levels of leadership?\r\nHave there been complaints about opioid prescribing practices in Indiana? If so, what were the complaints? Were they substantiated? What action was taken to address the complaints?\r\n \r\nIt is my understanding that the VHA Handbook 1108.1, Controlled Substances, is scheduled for recertification. It is my hope that this update will include measures that will provide the highest security measures for controlled substances, clarify policies governing the most secure supply chain, and outline roles and responsibilities for personnel responsible for these substances. Specifically, I am interested in the following:\r\n \r\nAre there universal policies that govern controlled substances across the Veteran Health Administration or are they locally controlled by facility and/or state?\r\nHow does the Veteran Health Administration ensure all of their providers with prescriptive authority for controlled substances receive continued medical education for prescribing controlled substances and recognizing addiction behaviors?\r\nHow does the VHA ensure their practicing clinicians are in compliance with the Controlled Substance Act?\r\nHave there been any incidences where a VAMC or CBOC in Indiana has been found to be not incompliance with rules and regulations governing controlled substances?\r\nIs there a VA policy for follow-up internal review following the completion of a DEA investigation?\r\nHow does the prescribing rate at the Marion VA facility compare to the prescribing rates at other VA hospitals serving a similar panel of enrollees?\r\nDoes the Office of Inspector General review controlled substance prescription practices during their routine reviews of facilities?\r\nDoes the local Quality Assurance Reviews address evidence based practices for opioid prescription practices?\r\n \r\nINSPECT, Indianas prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP), is an important component of Indianas strategy to prevent prescription drug abuse and diversion. I am a strong supporter of utilizing PDMPs to their fullest potential as a resource for healthcare providers, public health officials, and law enforcement. However, PDMPs can only be an effective tool if they include information that is as up-to-date and complete as possible.\r\n \r\nDoes the Veteran Health Administration have a universal policy that gives all medical providers the electronic capability and/or responsibility to verify a patients current medications (i.e. controlled substances)? If not, how does the VHA ensure that patients are not receiving multiple prescriptions for controlled substances at different locations?\r\nWhen are medical providers and pharmacists required to check the respective states PDMP before prescribing or issuing controlled substances?\r\nDo any Veteran Administration Medical Centers in Indiana provide data to INSPECT, Indianas prescription drug monitoring program?\r\nWhat barriers exist for centers in Indiana that currently are not providing data to INSPECT?\r\n \r\nThank you for your leadership and consideration of this critically important issue. I look forward to your response to the questions I have provided. \r\nSincerely,\r\nJoe Donnelly\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-helps-senate-pass-bipartisan-export-import-bank-reauthorization", "Donnelly Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Export-Import Bank Reauthorization", "2015-12-04", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Export-Import Bank Reauthorization\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tFour-year extension of Ex-Im Bank that heads to Obamas desk would help level playing field for Indiana small businesses with international competitors, boost exports, and create jobs for Hoosiers\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 4, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Late yesterday, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly helped the Senate pass a bipartisan extension of the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank through September 2019. The Ex-Im Bank reauthorization was part of a five-year transportation and infrastructure funding bill that now heads to President Obamas desk to be signed into law. Donnelly has long advocated for the Ex-Im Bank because it helps level the playing field for Indiana small businesses and manufacturers, doesnt cost taxpayers a dimein fact it turns a profitand protects and create jobs across the state. The Ex-Im Bank, the official export credit agency of the United States, helps facilitate the export of American goods and services to international markets. Because Congress failed to reauthorize the Banks charter by June 30, 2015, the Bank has not been allowed to provide American businesses with any new financing, and some businesses began turning to foreign countries for financing and sending American jobs overseas.\r\nDonnelly said, Reauthorizing the Export-Import Bank is great news for businesses in our state. The Export-Import Bank helps companies to expand their export opportunities, creating jobs for Americans and Hoosiers. It doesnt get more commonsense than creating more jobs at home and boosting exports in a fiscally responsible way  and the Export-Import Bank does just that.\r\nLike any compromise, this bipartisan highway bill is not the bill I would have written, but a long-term reauthorization of federal highway and transit programs is without question that best solution to address our pressing need to repair Indiana roads and bridges and make sure that our transit systems continue to run safely and efficiently.\r\nDonnelly has been pushing Congress to reauthorize the Ex-Im Bank for months. In June 2015, he delivered a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate emphasizing the importance of the Ex-Im Bank to small businesses and job creation in Indiana. In July 2015, he helpedthe Senate pass a bipartisan amendmentthat would reform and reauthorize the Export-Import Banks charter through September 2019. The amendment was identical to thebipartisan billDonnelly helped introduce earlier this year. In October, Donnelly urged Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to allow bipartisan reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank to get a vote in the Senate.\r\nAccording to the Export-Import Bank, since 2007, the Bank has directly helped approximately 140 Hoosier companies export more than $4 billion in goods and services overseas. In 2015 alone, 52 Hoosier companies, including 39 small businesses, have used the Ex-Im Bank to facilitate exporting Indiana-made products, valued at more than $286 million. The Export-Import Bank nationally approved $20.5 billion in authorizations in fiscal year 2014, which supported an estimated $27.5 billion of U.S. exports and more than 164,000 U.S. jobs. In 2014, 90 percent of transactions approved by the Ex-Im Bank were in support of small businesses.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-supports-five-year-surface-transportation-funding-legislation", "Visclosky Supports Five-Year Surface Transportation Funding Legislation", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC Today, Congressman Pete Visclosky supported the conference agreement for H.R. 22, the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act. The House of Representatives approved the measure by a vote of 359 to 65.\nThis legislation authorizes and includes dedicated revenue sources for surface transportation programs for the next five years. Specific to Indiana, the measure increases funding for Indiana highway programs by $448 million and increases funding for Indiana transit programs by $29.7 million. The measure also increases the funds available for Capital Investment Grants, which assist investment projects such as the recapitalization and expansion of the South Shore Rail Line. It also increases the funding available for improvements to bus systems by 89 percent. Additionally, the measure includes language that strengthens Buy America requirements for the use of American iron and steel in transportation projects. Further, the measure includes a reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank for four years.\nCongressman Pete Visclosky stated, I am pleased that this measure includes provisions to strengthen Buy America requirements. During these challenging days for steelworkers, we must do all we can to make more American steel. I also support this measure because it provides increased funding levels for investments in our roads, bridges, and rail and bus systems, and it enables our community leaders to be better able to make plans and implement transportation infrastructure projects for current and future residents of Northwest Indiana.\nMike Noland, CEO and General Manager of the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District, stated, We are thrilled to see that this legislation supports the long-term infrastructure investments that are critical to the South Shores daily operations and expansion plans. From the West Lake Corridor, to double tracking, to installing Positive Train Control, this legislation provides a path forward and much needed federal funding. Congressman Visclosky's unwavering leadership on transportation efforts for Northwest Indiana is evident in this legislation and we cannot thank him enough for once again delivering for our community.\nA stable source of federal dollars will strengthen the case for state and local transportation investment in Northwest Indiana, said Bill Hanna, President and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority. I would like to thank Congressman Visclosky for his tireless efforts on behalf of the region. We have an opportunity now to greatly improve connectivity to the third-largest economy in the country, create new job opportunities for residents, and encourage economic development in Northwest Indiana.\nTy Warner, Executive Director of the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, stated, There is a lot to like in this legislation for our region, including the expansion of the TIFIA loan program to include Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects. We are gratefulthat Congress has come together to provide five years of secure and predictable funding to help meet Northwest Indianas transportation needs.\nFor additional information on the conference agreement, click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/steel-caucus-calls-for-more-enforcement-of-trade-rules", "Steel Caucus calls for more enforcement of trade rules", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/steel-caucus-calls-for-more-enforcement-of-trade-rules\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 7:19:54 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Steel Caucus calls for more enforcement of trade rules", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-supports-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-visa-waiver-program-", "Donnelly Supports Bipartisan Legislation To Strengthen Visa Waiver Program", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Supports Bipartisan Legislation To Strengthen Visa Waiver Program \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAfter briefings with Department of Homeland Security and Department of State, Senator says refugee program should continue\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 3, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  As part of his efforts to review ways to strengthen our national security in the wake of the Paris terrorist attacks, U.S. Senator Donnelly announced today his support for bipartisan legislation that would enhance the security of the Visa Waiver Program. The legislation aims to prevent terrorists from entering the United Statesby barring individuals who have traveled to Iraq or Syria in the past five years from using the Visa Waiver Program, requiring travelers using the program to provide additional information before they travel, and increasing information-sharing between countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program.\r\nDonnelly said, The safety of Hoosiers is my top priority. I am supporting bipartisan legislation that would strengthen our Visa Waiver Program because we should ensure we are doing everything we can to further enhance our national security.\r\nDonnelly also focused on efforts to address recent concerns expressed about the refugee resettlement program.\r\nI have worked extensively to review our screening process for refugees to enter into the United States and Indiana. In recent weeks, I have had conversations and briefings with the Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and other officials from DHS and the Department of State. I feel confident after this review that the refugee screening process is exhaustive and utilizes the best information, technology, and appropriate caution to ensure the security of the United States and our Hoosier state. I believe that, in light of the security processes, extensive reviews, and safety steps put in place, that the refugee program should be allowed to move forward.\r\nBACKGROUND\r\nThe Visa Waiver Program currently allows citizens from more than three dozen countries to travel to the United States for 90 days or less without securing a visa.\r\nThe Visa Waiver Program Security Enhancement Act currently has 18 cosponsors, including twelve Democrats, five Republicans, and one Independent. Senator Dan Coats (R-IN) is among the Republican cosponsors of the bill.\r\nThe Visa Waiver Program Security Enhancement Actwould enhance the security of the Visa Waiver Program by:\r\n \r\nRequiring individuals who have traveled to Syria or Iraq in the past five years to acquire a traditional tourist visa instead of traveling without a visa under the visa waiver program. This process requires an in-person interview with an American consular officer;\r\nRequiring travelers using the visa waiver program to submit biometric information, in the form of fingerprints and a photograph, before they travel to the U.S.;\r\nRequiring all visa waiver travelers to use an electronic passport, which are more secure and harder to tamper with; and\r\nRequiring increased intelligence-sharing between visa waiver program countries and the U.S.\r\n \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-will-oppose-partisan-effort-that-would-repeal-health-care-law-and-deny-insurance-coverage-to-hoosier-families", "Donnelly Will Oppose Partisan Effort That Would Repeal Health Care Law and Deny Insurance Coverage to Hoosier Families", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Will Oppose Partisan Effort That Would Repeal Health Care Law and Deny Insurance Coverage to Hoosier Families\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator highlights personal stories of Hoosiers who would lose health insurance if health care law were repealed\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 3, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly will vote against a partisan effort that would take away health insurance coverage for hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers, undercutting progress made by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Donnelly will oppose legislation that is scheduled to come before the Senate as part of a budget process called reconciliation. The bill would repeal portions of the health care law and phase out the laws Medicaid expansion, eliminating the states Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) 2.0, which covers 350,000 working Hoosiers. In January, Indiana Governor Pence embraced the opportunity made possible through the ACA to expand Medicaid through HIP 2.0, but seems to have forgotten.\r\nDonnelly said, My priority is to expand access to quality, affordable health care. Hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers have health insurance today because of the Affordable Care Act, and even our Governor has embraced the law to expand coverage for Hoosiers. Todays vote is a simple choice between continuing our effort to expand access to quality health care or returning to a broken system that denied health insurance because of pre-existing conditions and left millions with no other choice but to go to the emergency room for basic health care.\r\n\r\nMartha from Evansville said, We were able to get insurance and the health care we need thanks to the Affordable Care Act. The idea that it could be taken away is devastating. Its stressful that ACA repeal is a constant threat, because without the ACA we wouldnt have health insurance again. Its really frightening.\r\nAbout Martha:Martha is a community college instructor and a reading instructor; her husband is a minister with the United Methodist Church. Until signing up for coverage through the federal marketplace, Martha and her family went without insurance for a year. It was a particularly harrowing time because a number of members of Marthas family have pre-existing conditionsher son, Aidan, has Marfan syndrome, and Martha experiences debilitating migraines. A few years ago, the family was covered under a COBRA policy that cost $1,800 a month. When COBRA ran out, the family could not find affordable coverage on the private market. The family went into credit card debt to pay for health care and was close to filing bankruptcy. In 2014, Marthas family enrolled in coverage through the Marketplace. They were eligible for a tax credit subsidy to help them with the cost of their plan. If they lost that premium subsidy, Martha says her family would go back to being uninsuredwhich could have serious consequences on their physical and financial health.\r\nLaura from Fort Wayne said, I think people forget, or maybe just don't realize that the ACA is so much more than just access to insurance. For me it's the ability to stand straight, to walk on my worst days. It's returning to work after being out sooner rather than later, because I could see a doctor. It's the ability to search for an answer rather than sitting helplessly in a dark room while life passes by. It's preventative care rather than being forced into expensive medical bills because one has no other choice. It's the knowledge that somewhere, someone cares enough for all of those stuck in between to help, to meet us half way. The idea of that going away, it's scary. It's a return to the tough decisions, do I eat this week or do I fork over the out of pocket cost to see someone? Never mind that I can't breathe from coughing, what good is breathing if you haven't food? Those are the decisions someone without insurance, someone who qualifies for the ACA has to make. And I would genuinely hope that no one would want to see a fellow Hoosier in that place ever again.\r\nAbout Laura: Laura works a variety of part-time jobs, none of which offer insurance. She suffers from many chronic illnesses that require regular medical attention, like chronic back problems, hypoglycemia, chronic anemia, asthma, arthritis in her ankle, endometriosis, anxiety, PTSD and polycystic ovarian syndrome. She was denied insurance in the past due to her pre-existing conditions and went uninsured for four years, leading her to delay care. In 2014, she was able to enroll in a plan through the Marketplace with a tax credit subsidy. Laura has begun to seek care for her variety of ailments. Today, Laura is on the road to recovery and has made significant progress on treating her health conditions. If Laura were to lose access to her subsidy, she would be forced to once again stop treatment.\r\nAs a result of the health care law:\r\n \r\nAs many as 2.7 million Hoosiers with a pre-existing condition who can no longer be denied insurance coverage;\r\nHoosiers under age 26 are now able to stay on their parents health plans;\r\nThe expansion of Medicaid through HIP 2.0 has enabled more than 350,000 Hoosiers to gain coverage;\r\nThe rate of uninsured in Indiana has dropped from 14 percent to 11.9 percent; and\r\nExpanded mental health and substance abuse disorder benefits to 1.2 million Hoosiers.\r\n \r\nIn addition, Hoosiers have more options for health care coverage. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, in 2015, Indiana consumers had nine insurers to choose from in the individual marketplace, an increase from four in 2014. This year an average of 43 health plans were available to Hoosiers in their county, up from an average of 23 last year.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-steel-caucus-calls-on-ways-and-means-to-enact-customs-bill", "Congressional Steel Caucus Calls on Ways and Means To Enact Customs Bill", "2015-11-30", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC Congressional Steel Caucus Chairman Tim Murphy, Vice Chairman Pete Visclosky, and 38 other Members of the bipartisan Congressional Steel Caucus today sent a letter to the leaders of the House Ways and Means Committee, urging that the Committee work with its Senate counterparts and make the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (H.R.644) a priority as Congress returns from the Thanksgiving holiday break. Detailed in the letter, the bipartisan lawmakers state that maintaining strong trade laws and vigorous enforcement of laws are critical elements for a strong domestic steel industry, noting how American steelworkers are under attack every day from illegal imports.They request the Committee to conference and complete the enactment of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act, which contains provisions that would ensure that antidumping (AD) and countervailing (CVD) duties are being accurately assessed and collected at the border, as soon as possible. Earlier this year, the Congressional Steel Caucus spearheaded passage of legislation concerning antidumping and countervailing duty laws that was signed into law on June 29th. Congressman Tim Murphy Chairman, Congressional Steel Caucus, stated, We achieved historic success in the House with trade remedy language earlier this year, but we cant rest on our laurels. The Congressional Steel Caucus is working to ensure strong enforcement standards remain in the final conference report.\nVice Chairman Visclosky stated, Illegal steel imports are decimating the American steel industry and it is imperative that we have the strongest tools and resources to fight back. Legislation to update Customs and Border Protection processes and authorities is essential to defending American steelworkers and combating illegal trade. I hope the House Ways and Means Committee and Congressional leadership heed the call of the Congressional Steel Caucus to see that this legislation is completed as soon as possible.\nBelow is a text of the letter and a PDF of the signed version.\nChairman Kevin Brady  House Ways and Means Committee 1102 Longworth HOBWashington, DC 20515 Ranking Member Sander Levin  House Ways and Means Committee  1106 Longworth HOB  Washington, DC 20515\nDear Chairman Brady and Ranking Member Levin:\nWe write today as members of the Congressional Steel Caucus to thank you for your support of the domestic steel industry, and for your partnership over the past year that resulted in legislative language, critically important to the domestic steel industry, being included in the Trade Preferences Extension Act (H.R.1295) that was signed into law on June 29th.Thanks to your leadership, the domestic steel industry is better able to compete on a level playing field with foreign competitors who are determined to evade our trade laws.We encourage you to continue your commitment to these producers and workers by making the bicameral conference and completion of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act one of your first priorities under the new House Ways and Means Leadership.\nOne of the critical elements to ensuring that trade remedy laws are ultimately effective is to ensure that the antidumping (AD) and countervailing (CVD) duties that result from trade cases are accurately assessed and collected at the border.Solicitations from firms trying to evade U.S. AD/CVD orders continue to surface at increasing and alarming levels, and yet there is no transparent process at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) whereby the domestic industry can seek timely relief from this activity.Provisions in Title IV of the Senate Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (H.R. 644) will provide for such a process at CBP and ensure that the laws against unfair trade are being enforced and the correct amount of duties are being collected.These reforms, collectively known as the ENFORCE Act, are essential to ensure that U.S. producers, who have been injured by unfairly traded imports, receive the benefit of the remedy provided by law.\nSpecifically, we support including the following key elements to address the circumvention and evasion of AD/CVD orders in the final conference report:\nEnhancing CBP Tools - CBP needs to be identified as the lead agency to conduct evasion investigations.CBP is the entity charged with collecting AD and CVD duties at the border and enforcing all other tariff and border issues.\nTime-Limited Investigations Congress must require CBP to initiate, investigate, and make determinations on allegations of evasion within one year so that the problem of evasion can be reviewed carefully and in a timely manner.Already, domestic industries often spend more than a year bringing the original AD or CVD case through the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. International Trade Commission.\nJudicial Review - CBPs decisions on evasion allegations must also be appealable to the Court of International Trade. Judicial review is a common feature in customs trade classifications and trade remedy actions, and it aims to ensure that U.S. government agencies are accountable and that processes are consistent with statutory requirements.If judicial review is not provided with respect to evasion determinations, domestic manufacturing industries are denied any opportunity to ensure that CBP acted appropriately and in accordance with law.Yet importers, who would have existing rights to judicial review if they disagree with CBPs classification of imports, would be provided greater legal rights than our own domestic manufacturers that have already been found to be injured by unfairly traded imports.\nNo Opt-Out  The relief for U.S. producers must be prescriptive.Recent reports that negotiators are considering opt-out provisions, such as allowing CBP to suspend the ENFORCE procedure while other agencies investigate criminal or civil claims related to the same illegal merchandise, are alarming because they are effectively a loophole for CBP to continue failing to enforce the law. ENFORCE simply creates an administrative review process, which should occur independent of other investigations. Should CBP be given a new legal justification for opting out of its responsibilities, it would be a step back from current law.\nMaintaining strong trade laws and the vigorous enforcement of those laws are critical elements for a strong domestic steel industry. Steelworkers are under attack every day by illegal imports, and we must not delay to strengthen the range of available tools to combat the evasion of our trade remedy laws. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to conference and complete the enactment of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act as soon as possible.\nSincerely,\nRep. Tim Murphy  Chairman, Congressional Steel Caucus\nRep. Peter Visclosky  Vice Chairman, Congressional Steel Caucus\nRep. Walter B. Jones Rep. Marcy Kaptur Rep. Sam Graves Rep. Debbie Dingell Rep. Brian Higgins Rep. Gene Green Rep. Gregg Harper Rep. Mo Brooks Rep. Tom Marino\nRep. Michael R. Turner Rep. Richard Nolan Rep. Bradley Byrne Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E.  Rep. Pete Aguilar Rep. Rick Crawford Rep. Lou Barletta Rep. David P. Joyce\nRep. Bob Gibbs Rep. Richard Nugent Rep. Sanford Bishop\nRep. Dan Lipinski Rep. Mark Pocan Rep. Mike Doyle Rep. Betty McCollum Rep. Dave Loebsack Rep. Jeff Fortenberry Rep. Tim Walberg Rep. Bill Johnson Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick Rep. Mark Takai\nRep. Keith Rothfus Rep. Todd Rokita Rep. Dave Trott Rep. Filemon Vela  Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick Rep. Tim Ryan Rep. Mike Bishop Rep. Tammy Duckworth\nENFORCE Letter to Chairman Kevin Brady and Ranking Member Sander Levin.pdf\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-discusses-growing-role-nwsc-crane-and-purdue-play-in-national-security-during-visit-to-national-laboratories-with-defense-officials", "Donnelly Discusses Growing Role NWSC Crane and Purdue Play in National Security During Visit to National Laboratories with Defense Officials", "2015-11-30", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Discusses Growing Role NWSC Crane and Purdue Play in National Security During Visit to National Laboratories with Defense Officials\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator recently traveled to two NNSA labs and military installation in role as Senate Armed Services Committee Strategic Forces Subcommittee Ranking Member\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 30, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind.  U.S. Senator Donnelly recently visited two National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) laboratories and a Department of Defense (DoD) military installation in New Mexico to meet with defense officials about the role that Indiana plays in helping the U.S. maintain a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent. Donnelly had a chance to discuss Purdues new partnership with Sandia National Laboratories and NWSC Cranes work to support DoDs nuclear programs. Donnelly also visited Los Alamos National Laboratory and Kirtland Air Force Base.\r\nDonnelly reviewed government efforts aimed at maintaining the U.S. nuclear stockpile, protecting the U.S. against weapons of mass destruction, and preventing the spread of nuclear weapons around the world. As Ranking Member on the Senate Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Donnelly helps lead oversight efforts of Americas nuclear weapons programs. One of Donnellys top priorities has been maximizing collaboration and information sharing across the Navy, Air Force, and NNSA. NSWC Crane has been on the leading edge of efforts to enhance collaboration, sharing their world-renowned expertise with partners in the national security labs and across the military services. Earlier this year, Donnelly helped welcome Purdue and Sandias announcement about the formation of a strategic alliance. During the five-year alliance, Purdue and Sandia will work collaboratively on research; support exchange opportunities for Purdue faculty and students and Sandia staff; and support an increased faculty-research partnership.\r\n\r\nFrom left to right: U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly with officials from Sandia National Labs and (right) Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Charles McMillan.\r\nDonnelly said, Hoosiers play a large and growing role in protecting our national security, and this includes ensuring our nuclear weapons are safe, secure, and effective. As our nation confronts complex threats around the world, our nuclear security is as critical today as it has ever been. Visiting the Sandia and Los Alamos national security labs and Kirtland Air Force Base provided an important opportunity to thank our nuclear scientists, engineers, and servicemembers for their service to our country. We discussed the critical work done by Hoosiers both at NWSC Crane and through the Purdue-Sandia partnership to keep our country safe. I will continue to work to ensure the NNSA and DoD are leveraging and maximizing partnerships with NWSC Crane and Purdue and the outstanding talent in Indiana contributing to our national security.\r\nSuresh Garimella, executive vice president for research and partnerships at Purdue, said, We are grateful for Senator Donnellys continued support of theSandia-Purdue strategic alliance which underlines and enhances long-standing scientific collaboration and workforce development between our institutions. The alliance will enable collaborative research and federal investment at Purdue in areas of critical importance to the nations defense and security as well as expand exchange opportunities for faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students who will join the proud Purdue alumni already working at Sandia in key roles.\r\nBen Harkness, Director Global Deterrence & Defense Department, NSWC Crane, said, \"NSWC Crane and Sandia continue to work together on our nation's top strategic priorities such as trusted, radiation hardened microelectronics and flight experiments in the maturation of prompt global strike technologies. Senator Donnelly continues to provide valued leadership in promoting cross-department collaboration of the laboratory community. NSWC Crane looks forward to continuing collaborative relations focused on providing our nation's warfighters affordable solutions.\"\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-statement-on-hoosier-families-being-turned-away-from-pre-k-pilot-program-due-to-limited-funding", "Donnelly Statement on Hoosier Families Being Turned Away from Pre-K Pilot Program Due to Limited Funding", "2015-11-30", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Statement on Hoosier Families Being Turned Away from Pre-K Pilot Program Due to Limited Funding\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 30, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly today released the following statement in response to a report in the Indianapolis Star that thousands of Hoosier families who applied for Indianas new preschool pilot program have been turned away due to limited funding. This news comes after Indiana Governor Mike Pence chose to forego applying for a federal Preschool Development Grant last year. The grant, offered by the U.S. Departments of Education and Health and Human Services, would have helped build, develop, and expand voluntary, high-quality preschool programs for low-and moderate-income Hoosier families. Indiana would have been eligible to receive up to $80 million in funding.\r\nDonnelly said, It was disappointing when the Governor decided not to apply for federal preschool development grants. We knew that there was high demand from Hoosier families for these programs, and when you leave as much as $80 million on the table, it is no surprise that so many now lack access to them. An investment in pre-K is an investment in Indianas future, and we can help increase economic opportunity for Hoosiers by making preschool a priority for our kids and giving them a chance to build a strong foundation for long-term success.\r\nAs Indianas senator, I will continue to push for expanding access to early childhood education, and I am pleased that the compromise bill Congress is expected to soon consider to update the Elementary and Secondary Education Act would authorize federal preschool development grants for states to increase access, improve, and coordinate their pre-K programs. I stand ready to work with Governor Pence, educators, and other local partners to ensure more Hoosier families have access to early childhood education and the resources necessary to achieve their potential.\r\nIn an October 2014 letter to Pence, Donnelly expressed disappointment and requested a more detailed explanation from the Governor on the State of Indianas decision to forego applying for a federal Preschool Development Grant. To view Governor Pences response, click here. Donnelly followed up on the Governors response with another letter asking for answers to his questions. To view, Donnellys follow-up letter, click here. Governor Pence did not reply to Donnellys follow-up letter.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/a-history-of-gary", "A history of Gary", "2015-11-26", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "7895 Broadway, Suite A\n\nMerrillville, IN 46410\n\n  Phone: (219) 795-1844  \n\tFax: (219) 795-1850", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/giving-thanks-by-giving-back", "Giving Thanks by Giving Back", "2015-11-25", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 25, 2015\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDear Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThis week we take a break from our busy lives to give thanks. While many of us have a feast waiting for us at home, there are thousands of Hoosiers and millions of Americans who do not have enough food to put on the table. As we gather with our loved ones and count our blessings, one of the best ways we can give thanks for our good fortune is to give back.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEach year, my family and I head over to the annual Mozel Sanders Thanksgiving Day dinner tomake sureourneighbors are able to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.This tradition is my way of keeping in touch with what I believe to be the spirit of this holiday.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCongressman Carson serves Thanksgiving dinner with his daughter, Salimah, at the Mozel Sanders Thanksgiving Day Dinner in 2014\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs President John F. Kennedy once said, As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words. But to live by them. During this season ofThanksgivingmay we use our time, talents, and our treasure to serve our neighbors in need, show our appreciation for our troops, and reflect on the blessings in our livesthatwe are most thankful for.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFrom my family to yours, best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYour Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAndr", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/sen-donnellys-care-package-signed-into-law-as-part-of-ndaa", "Sen. Donnelly's 'Care Package' signed into law as part of NDAA", "2015-11-25", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Evansville, Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t123 NW 4th Street, Suite 417\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEvansville, IN 47708\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (812) 425-5813\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (812) 425-5817 \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFort Wayne, Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t 203 E. Berry Street, Suite 702 B\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t Fort Wayne, IN 46802\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (260) 420-4955\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (260) 420-4930\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHammond, Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t5400 Federal Plaza, Suite 3200\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t Hammond, IN 46320\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (219)-852-0089\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (219)-852-0729\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIndianapolis, Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t115 N. Pennsylvania Street Suite 100\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIndianapolis, IN 46204\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (317) 226-5555\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (855) 772-7518\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tJeffersonville, Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t702 North Shore Drive, Suite LL-101\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tJeffersonville, IN 47130\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (812)-284-2027\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (812)-284-2044\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSouth Bend, Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t205 West Colfax Avenue\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSouth Bend, IN 46601\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (574)-288-2780\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (574)-234-7476\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t720 Hart Senate Office Building\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWashington, D.C. 20510\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tp: (202) 224-4814\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tf: (202) 224-5011\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGet Directions", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-supported-legislation-signed-into-law-will-help-youngest-victims-of-opioid-addiction", "Donnelly-Supported Legislation Signed into Law, Will Help Youngest Victims of Opioid Addiction", "2015-11-25", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly-Supported Legislation Signed into Law, Will Help Youngest Victims of Opioid Addiction\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBuilds on Senators ongoing work to stem tide of devastating prescription opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 25, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tGranger, Ind.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly lauded the bipartisan effort that led President Obama to sign the Protecting our Infants Act into law. The legislation will help newborns suffering from opioid withdrawal and painful symptoms associated with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).Donnelly announced his support for the bill earlier this year. It is the latest positive development in Donnellys ongoing work to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics.\r\nDonnelly said, Too many of our youngest Hoosiers are born dependent on opioids and then suffer from withdrawal. This legislation will help improve treatment for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and reduce the number of babies born addicted to opioids over the long-term. This is a clear example of the positive progress we can make when we work together to address this problem that is sadly devastating families across Indiana.\r\nDr. Jennifer L. Howse, President, March of Dimes, said, No infant should begin life by suffering the pain of drug withdrawal. The Protecting Our Infants Act is a critical first step toward reducing the terrible toll of neonatal abstinence syndrome and brings much-needed attention to the dramatic increase in the number of infants born exposed to opioids and other drugs. We thank the bill sponsors and supporters, including Sen. Joe Donnelly, for their tremendous efforts on behalf of drug-exposed babies. We look forward to working with authorities at the federal, state and local levels to prevent infant drug exposure and treat those affected.\r\nThebipartisanProtecting Our Infants Act, introduced earlier this year by Senate Majority LeaderMitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) will:\r\n \r\nDirect the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to develop recommendations for preventing and treating prenatal opioid abuse and NAS;\r\nDirect the Secretary of Health and Human Services to lead a review of departmental planning and coordination and prepare a strategy to address research and program gaps. This effort would implement aFebruary 2015 recommendation by the Government Accountability Officethat calls for better planning and coordination at the federal level to address the rise in prenatal opioid abuse and NAS; and\r\nEncourage the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to work with states to help them improve their data collection and public health response to NAS.\r\n \r\nFor nearly two years, Donnelly has been working to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics in Indiana and across the country, by listening to Hoosiers, introducing bipartisan legislation, partnering with federal, state, and local officials, and bringing together stakeholders. He reintroduced the bipartisanHeroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Actwith Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) in April. Their bill would take a multi-pronged approach to help prevent opioid abuse and heroin use. Earlier this year, Senator Donnelly and U.S. Representative Susan Brooks (IN-05) hosted a bipartisan roundtable discussion at IUPUI with Indiana and federal health officials, doctors, and pharmacists to hear directly from Hoosiers about best practices to help curb the opioid-abuse epidemic. Donnelly made recommendations in a letter to the Governors Drug Task Force, providing suggestions for short- and long-term responses to Indianas addiction problems. In addition to offering specific suggestions to the Task Force, Donnelly emphasized that any strategy to address addiction in Indiana will require the State to not only identify necessary policy changes, but also make a commitment to implementing and funding those changes moving forward.\r\nBoth state and federal officials are acting on some of the bipartisan policies Donnelly has advocated for, including improving prescribing practices and enhancing prescriber engagement, raising public awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse and heroin use, and better utilizing prescription drug monitoring programs at the state level.\r\nRecently, Donnelly had meetings with U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Tom Frieden to discuss the federal effort to address the opioid epidemic and drug addiction.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnellys-military-mental-health-provisions-signed-into-law-with-national-defense-bill", "Donnelly’s Military Mental Health Provisions Signed into Law with National Defense Bill", "2015-11-25", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnellys Military Mental Health Provisions Signed into Law with National Defense Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators bipartisan efforts will improve quality of care and ease of access for servicemembers in ongoing push to address military suicide\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 25, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tGranger, Ind.  The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), signed into law today by President Obama, includes provisions of U.S. Senator Joe Donnellys bipartisan Servicemember and Veterans Mental Health Care Package (Care Package). This legislation will improve military mental health care quality and access for servicemembers and seeks to prevent military suicide. The national defense bill passed the Senate earlier this month with Senator Donnellys support on a 91 to 3 vote.\r\nDonnelly said, Seeing the Care Package signed into law is another important step forward as we continue the fight to bring military suicide numbers down to zero. Getting these provisions implemented in communities across Indiana and throughout the country will improve the quality of mental health care provided to our servicemembers. It will expand their options, helping connect Hoosiers with local providers who are specially trained to deal with challenges unique to the military. It will also help our Department of Defense providers better recognize the signs of suicide risk in their patients and connect them with the resources and support they need. We owe it to our servicemembers and their families to help them get access to the best quality mental health care. Our work is far from done, and I will keep pushing to improve mental health care for our servicemembers, veterans, and their loved ones.\r\nShelley Wadsworth MacDermid,Director, Military Family Research Institute atPurdue University, said, \"We applaud Senator Donnellys outstanding commitment to addressing the psychological health of service members, veterans and their families. There is a significant need for community-based behavioral health training, and we at MFRI are proud to have helped to create Star Behavioral Health Providers, which makes care more accessible andbuilds important infrastructure to also support members of the Indiana National Guard and Reserves in their communities.\" \r\nJohn Madigan, Vice President of Public Policy,American Foundation for Suicide Prevention,said, Once again, Indianas Senator Joe Donnelly is leading the way to combat military suicide. Joes tireless, bipartisan efforts to make sure the national defense bill included his Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package will help save lives. Whether its providing specially-trained mental health providers for veterans and servicemembers, requiring DOD primary care and mental health care providers to receive evidence-based training on suicide-risk recognition and management or training physician assistants to specialize in psychiatric care to meet increased needs; Joe Donnelly knows what it will take to keep mental health services going to all of our veterans and servicemembers.Thank you Senator Donnelly.\r\nRetired Maj. Gen. Gus Hargett, President, National Guard Association of the United States,said, National Guardsmen and their families across the country greatly appreciate Senator Donnelly listening and leading on mental-health issues. With Senator Donnellys bipartisan Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package becoming law, it will mean those struggling with invisible wounds can find the care they need and we owe them, including access to trained community providers.\r\nVice Adm. Norb Ryan, Jr.,President, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), said, The signing of the defense bill into law is vital to fulfilling commitments to our servicemembers, veterans and their families. MOAA is grateful to Senator Donnelly for championing the Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package, a significant provision in the legislation which would expand access to quality mental health care.Never in our countrys history has the health and wellness of our warriors and their families been more important than it is today to our national security.\r\nJeffrey Phillips, Executive Director,Reserve Officers Association, said, ROA applauds passage of Sen. Joe Donnellys mental health care provisions just signed into law as part of the defense authorization bill. In an ROA survey, Guard and Reserve members explained stigma exists as a result of mental health problems. The new avenues of access included in the defense bill will help to overcome these types of issues.\r\nJoyce Raezer, Executive Director, National Military Family Association, said, We appreciate Senator Donnellys continued support for service members and their families, especially his efforts to address the military communitys well-documented shortage of culturally competent mental health providers utilizing evidence-based treatments.\r\nDonnelly has worked the past three years to advance commonsense, bipartisan legislation through his role on the Senate Armed Services Committee. In March, Donnelly introduced the Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package (Care Package),made up of three bipartisan bills to help expand access to quality mental health care for servicemembers and veterans through both DoD and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities, as well as local community providers.\r\nMilitary mental health provisions from the Care Package first passed the Senate in June and will help ensure that there are a sufficient number of the best trained mental health providers for active-duty servicemembers and veterans.\r\nAs part of the Care Package, Donnelly took into account how stigma, provider shortages, and budget constraints are harming veterans and servicemembers as they seek care. Donnelly is working to improve access to quality mental health care through the expanded use of specially-trained community providers.\r\nDonnellys Community Provider Readiness Recognition Act (co-sponsored by Senator Joni Ernst, R-IA)is inspired by the Star Behavioral Health Provider Network, a program led by Purdues Military Family Research Institute. Donnellys provision will create a special designation for private sector, community mental health providers who demonstrate  either through training or past experience  a strong knowledge of military culture and evidence-based therapies for mental health issues common to veterans and servicemembers. It would create a regularly-updated online registry, so veterans and servicemembers can search for these specially-designated community providers in their area.\r\nDonnellys Military and Veterans Mental Health Provider Assessment Act (co-sponsored by Senator Roger Wicker, R-MS)would require that all DoD and VA primary care and mental health care providers have received evidence-based training on suicide risk recognition and management and that their training be updated to keep pace with changes in mental health care best practices.\r\nAdditionally,elements of Donnellys Frontline Mental Health Provider Training Act (co-sponsored by Senator John Boozman, R-AR)were included as part of the Senate Armed Services Committee report, urging DoD to train physician assistants to specialize in psychiatric care in order to help meet the increasing demands for mental health services among servicemembers and their families.\r\nThe Care Package builds on the progress made by Senator DonnellysJacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law late last year. The Sexton Act  named for Hoosier Jacob Sexton, a National Guardsman who took his life in 2009  for the first time requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembers including Active, Guard, and Reserve. To learn more about the Care Packageclick here.\r\nIn the first half of 2015, DoD reported that more than 200 servicemembers took their own lives. Last year, 443 servicemembers took their own lives and in 2013 474 were lost to suicide, the Pentagon reported.\r\n###\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/munsters-south-shore-hopes-focus-on-development", "Munster's South Shore hopes focus on development", "2015-11-24", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "7895 Broadway, Suite A\n\nMerrillville, IN 46410\n\n  Phone: (219) 795-1844  \n\tFax: (219) 795-1850", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-congratulates-hoosier-legend-lee-hamilton-on-presidential-medal-of-freedom-award", "Donnelly Congratulates Hoosier Legend Lee Hamilton on Presidential Medal of Freedom Award", "2015-11-24", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Congratulates Hoosier Legend Lee Hamilton on Presidential Medal of Freedom Award\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 24, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement in advance of Lee Hamilton being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Hamilton is set to receive the Nations highest civilian honor later today.\r\nDonnelly said: Lee Hamilton represents the best of Hoosier values. As a national security and foreign policy leader, long-time Congressman, outspoken advocate for bipartisanship in government, and Director of IUs Center on Congress, Lee has dedicated himself to improving Indiana and our country. Given his lifelong commitment to public service, Lee is a deserving recipient of this recognition. Im proud to call Lee a friend and fellow Hoosier.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-flake-states-deserve-fair-share-of-federal-highway-funds", "Donnelly, Flake: States Deserve Fair Share of Federal Highway Funds", "2015-11-18", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly, Flake: States Deserve Fair Share of Federal Highway Funds\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators lead bipartisan group in letter urging Congress to fix funding of federal highway programs in final agreement on long-term highway legislation\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 18, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and Jeff Flake (R-AZ) led a letter with a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues to the leaders of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the HouseCommittee onTransportationand Infrastructureurging that any long-term transportation authorization ensures fair funding for all states. Afterpassing long-term highway fundinglegislation, the House and Senate are negotiating a final agreement.\r\nDonnelly and Flake wrote, in part, Although we are all committed to the timely passage of a long-term transportation bill, the bills current calculation of minimum state apportionments would result in significantly less federal funding for the states we represent. We believe that any long-term transportation reauthorization should address this issue As we work together to implement a long-term highway bill, we have the opportunity to make a simple change that will greatly benefit infrastructure projects nationwide. We look forward to working with you to ensure that all states receive their fair share of federal transportation funding.\r\nIn September, Donnelly and Flake introduced bipartisan legislation that would fix funding of federal highway programs so that every state would receive at least 95% of the states portion of contributions to the Highway Trust Fund. Currently, Indiana is only slated to receivea share of highway funding equal to91% of itsshare ofHighway Trust Fund contributions. The Donnelly-Flake bill is nearly identical to the amendment Donnelly and Flake introduced to the Senate version of the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill in July 2015.\r\nText of the letter led by Donnelly and Flake to leaders of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and House Transportation & Infrastructure is below. A signed PDF is available here.\r\nNovember 18, 2015\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Jim Inhofe\r\nChairman\r\nCommittee on Environment and\r\nPublic Works\r\nU.S. Senate\r\nWashington, DC 20510\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Bill Shuster\r\nChairman\r\nTransportation and Infrastructure Committee\r\nU.S. House of Representatives\r\nWashington, DC 20515\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Barbara Boxer\r\nRanking Member\r\nCommittee on Environment and\r\nPublic Works\r\nU.S. Senate\r\nWashington, DC 20510\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Peter DeFazio\r\nRanking Member\r\nTransportation and Infrastructure\r\nCommittee\r\nU.S. House of Representatives\r\nWashington, DC 20515\r\nDear Chairmen Inhofe and Shuster, and Ranking Members Boxer and DeFazio:\r\nWe write to request that any long-term transportation authorization ensures fair funding for all states. Although we are all committed to the timely passage of a long-term transportation bill, the bills current calculation of minimum state apportionments would result in significantly less federal funding for the states we represent. We believe that any long-term transportation reauthorization should address this issue.\r\nThe inequity in the current formula is a result of transfers from the General Treasury to the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) and can be fixed by a simple adjustment in the state apportionment calculations to ensure that a states share of total apportionments is at least equal to 95 percent of that states share of contributions to the HTF. With each state having a great need for transportation funding, the shortcomings offered by the current formula is being felt in each of our state infrastructure budgets and warrants an appropriate fix. \r\nPrevious surface transportation authorizations contained provisions designed to ensure a fair, minimum return to those states that contribute a higher share to the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) than they receive in return, also known as donor states. Currently, federal law requires that donor states receive at least 95 cents for every dollar they have invested in the HTF; however, because of the way the formula is currently drafted, some states are receiving returns of federal funding significantly below 95 percent. Updating the formula to allow states to receive 95 percent of their share of contributions to the HTF would bring current law in line with the original intent of the 95 percent threshold.  \r\nWe believe that every state deserves its fair share of federal highway funding. As we work together to implement a long-term highway bill, we have the opportunity to make a simple change that will greatly benefit infrastructure projects nationwide. We look forward to working with you to ensure that all states receive their fair share of federal transportation funding.\r\nSincerely,\r\nU.S. Senator Joe Donnelly\r\nU.S. Senator Jeff Flake\r\nU.S. Senator Dan Coats\r\nU.S. Senator John McCain\r\nU.S. Senator Jerry Moran\r\nU.S. Senator Al Franken\r\nU.S. Senator Benjamin Cardin\r\nU.S. Senator Richard Burr\r\nU.S. Senator Thom Tillis\r\nU.S. Senator Gary Peters\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-and-chairman-of-house-energy-and-commerce-committee-discuss-bipartisan-efforts-to-accelerate-medical-breakthroughs", "Donnelly and Chairman of House Energy and Commerce Committee Discuss Bipartisan Efforts to Accelerate Medical Breakthroughs", "2015-11-16", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly and Chairman of House Energy and Commerce Committee Discuss Bipartisan Efforts to Accelerate Medical Breakthroughs\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tDonnelly and Upton host roundtable discussion in Indianapolis on proposed Medical Innovation Agenda and the House-passed 21st Century Cures Act\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 16, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly and Congressman Fred Upton (R-MI), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee in the House of Representatives hosted a roundtable discussion at Indiana University Research & Technology Corporation today on bipartisan efforts to encourage medical innovation, help accelerate development and review of new, life-saving medicines and medical devices. Donnelly announced his Medical Innovation Agenda last month that includes a series of bipartisan bills introduced or supported by Donnelly that would streamline multiple Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval processes to expedite the development of life-saving medicines and medical devices. The House passed Uptons 21st Century Cures Act earlier this year. Donnelly and Upton were joined by more than 15 organizations representing the life sciences industry, pharmaceutical companies, and medical device companies.\r\n\r\nDonnelly and Upton participate in the roundtable. For high-definition photos, click here.\r\nDonnelly said, We are at an exciting time in medical advances, and federally-funded researchers and experts in the life sciences industries in Indiana are leading the way in groundbreaking technologies and medicine. Some of our laws and regulations, however, have not kept pace with innovation. We must continue to close the gap between the development of new drugs and devices and bringing safe and effective products to the public. That is why Congressman Upton and I have partnered together in a bipartisan effort aimed at helping ensure patients have timely access to life-saving drugs and medical devices. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to support medical innovation.\r\nUpton said, Indiana and Michigan are at the forefront of the Cures effort  and as we saw today, some of the nations best academic and research minds are in our own backyard. With 21st Century Cures  we are delivering hope for patients and giving researchers and regulators the tools they need to get faster cures. Joe Donnelly has been a great partner in the Senate, and working together, well get the job done.\r\nKathy Heuer, Executive Director of Indiana Medical Device Manufacturers Council, said, On behalf of the more than 20,000 Hoosiers dedicated to developing and manufacturing medical devices to improve patient lives, IMDMC appreciates Sen. Donnelly's and Chairman Upton's leadership in promoting medical innovation.America's patients and Indiana's economy will benefit from the common sense policies in the 21st Century Cures Initiative and Senator Donnelly's Innovation Agenda. This is exactly the type of bipartisan and bicameral leadership needed to improve and modernize the US health care system.\r\nThe Medical Innovation Agenda\r\nIn October, Donnelly announced his bipartisan Medical Innovation Agenda to help ensure that patients have timely access to important drugs and medical devices proven to be safe and effective. The series of bipartisan bills that Donnelly introduced or supported as part of his Medical Innovation Agenda would streamline multiple Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval processes to expedite the development of life-saving medicines and medical devices.Read more about Donnellys Medical Innovation Agendahere.\r\nThe life sciencesand pharmaceutical industries are not only important to Hoosiers and Americans, but vital to Indianas economy.According to areport by BioCrossroads and the Indiana Business Resource Centerat the Kelley School of Business, Indiana University (IBRC), the life sciences industry has an economic impact on Indianas economy of almost $45 billion. For each job directly added in the life sciences industry in Indiana, another 2.7 jobs are created elsewhere in the states economy.\r\nThe 21stCentury Cures Act\r\nAs Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Upton led a bipartisan initiative to accelerate the pace of cures and medical breakthroughs in the United States. Uptons committee took a comprehensive look at the full arc of this process  from discovery to development to delivery to ensure we are taking full advantage of the advances this country has made in science and technology and use these resources to keep America as the innovation capital of the world.\r\nThis bipartisan process led to the development of the21stCentury Cures Act, which was approved by the House in July 2015 with overwhelming bipartisan support.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/carson-statement-on-terror-attacks-in-par", "Carson Statement on Terror Attacks in Paris", "2015-11-13", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Today, Rep. Andr Carson (IN-07), Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement:\nLike all Americans, I was outraged to learn of thedespicable terrorist attacks carried out in Paris yesterday. This horrific violence against innocent people is clearly an attempt to intimidate andinstill fear, not only in the people of France, but in everyone who values freedom and equality.As we struggle to come to terms with this tragedy, weknow one thing for certain, these terroristswill not prevail.\nThe United States will do everything in ourpower to assist the French andbring those responsible to justice.  In the coming days,mythoughts and prayers will be with the French people, the victims and their families.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-terror-attacks-paris", "Carson Statement on Terror Attacks in Paris", "2015-11-13", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", "carson", "https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Rep. Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement:\n\n\"Like all Americans, I was outraged to learn of the despicable terrorist attacks carried out in Paris yesterday. This horrific violence against innocent people is clearly an attempt to intimidate and instill fear, not only in the people of France, but in everyone who values freedom and equality. As we struggle to come to terms with this tragedy, we know one thing for certain, these terrorists will not prevail.\n\n\"The United States will do everything in our power to assist the French and bring those responsible to justice. \u200e In the coming days, my thoughts and prayers will be with the French people, the victims and their families.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:30:58Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/improving-the-crossroads-of-america", "Improving the Crossroads of America", "2015-11-12", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WEBSITE | CONTACT ME\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tForward to a Friend\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUpcoming Events:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tService Academy Open House \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhere:Charles A Tindley Accelerated School\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t3960 Meadows Drive\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIndianapolis, IN 46205When:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSaturday, November 21\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNoon -2 P.M.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNovember 12, 2015\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDear Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIndiana is the Crossroads of America. Our roads, bridges and highways not only help support our national economy, they support countless Hoosier jobs by transporting goods and services produced across our state. Thats why last week I supported a six-year federal highway bill that puts in place policies to improve our nations infrastructure and provide funds for Indianas roads.According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly 65% of America's roads are rated as being in less than good condition and 25% of bridges need to be replaced.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015, will provide $325 billion over the next six years to pay for needed upgrades to our highway, rail, street and other important infrastructure projects.This legislation represents a true compromise between Democrats and Republicans and will provide the certainty needed to focus onrebuilding our roads, repairing our bridges and spurring job creation for all Hoosiers.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs the Ranking Member of the Emergency Management Subcommittee, I am pleased that two of my amendments were included in the final bill. One improves the cost and delivery of emergency vehicles, the other corrects the Federal Aid-Highway Program to ensure economically distressed communities are prioritized.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNow that theHouse has passed the bill, the Senate and House Conference Committeewill resolve differences between the two chambers sofinal legislation can beto sent to the President.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs always, I am honored to represent you and your family in Congress. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYour Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAndr", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/wellman-honored-during-event-in-merrillville", "Wellman honored during event in Merrillville", "2015-11-12", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "7895 Broadway, Suite A\n\nMerrillville, IN 46410\n\n  Phone: (219) 795-1844  \n\tFax: (219) 795-1850", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/newsletters/honoring-our-veterans", "Honoring Our Veterans", "2015-11-11", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Honoring Our Veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 11, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tDear Hoosier,\r\nVeterans Day is an important reminder for all of us to honor and thank our veterans, including the almost 500,000 veterans who call Indiana home. The men and women of our armed forces protect our nation, our freedom, and our families and we are truly grateful for their service. This Veterans Day, let us all take some time to thank these brave veteransand their familiesfor the sacrifices they have made to defend our country.\r\n\r\nTo view Senator Donnellys video message, click here.\r\nAs we continue to welcome home veterans from posts around the world, we must also remember that we share an obligation to serve those whove served on our behalf. We must support veterans and their families as they transition from military to civilian life, and ensure that the VA is adequately funded and properly operated. Finally, we need to guarantee that every veteran who comes home with physical or mental wounds is able to receive the care they deserve.\r\nWe will never forget the sacrifices made by our men and women, and I wanted to pay tribute those who are still with us today and to the Hoosiers who were never able to come home.\r\nIt is an honor to work on behalf of our veterans, you, and Hoosiers across Indiana. I will continue working nonstop with our federal, state, and local partners to make sure Hoosier veterans receive the care they deserve. Please feel free to contact me with your thoughts or questions anytime by emailing me or calling my Indianapolis office at 317-226-5555 or Washington, D.C. office at 202-224-4814.\r\nSincerely,\r\nSenator Joe Donnelly", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-thanks-veterans-in-advance-of-veterans-day", "Donnelly Thanks Veterans in Advance of Veterans Day", "2015-11-11", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Thanks Veterans in Advance of Veterans Day\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 11, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind.U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly today released the following video message thanking veterans and servicemembers in Indiana and across the United States for their service to our country in honor of Veterans Day.\r\n\r\nWatch Senator Donnellys remarks here.\r\nDonnelly said, In Indiana, our veterans exemplify the best of our Hoosier values. This Veterans Day, let us all take some time to thank the brave men and women who have served our country. Whether its in our neighborhoods, at the local supermarket, or at church on Sunday, we all need to let our veteransand their familiesknow how much we appreciate their service and sacrifice. As we continue to welcome home veterans from posts around the world, we must also remember that we share an obligation to serve those whove served on our behalf. We must support veterans and their families as they transition from military to civilian life. We need to ensure that the VA is adequately funded and properly operated. And we need to guarantee that every veteran who comes home with physical or mental wounds is able to receive the care they deserve.\r\nFor information on how Donnellys office can be of service to a veteran in need of assistance, please visit https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/help/veterans-resources.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-announces-veterans-history-project-event-in-jasper", "Donnelly Announces Veterans History Project Event in Jasper", "2015-11-10", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Announces Veterans History Project Event in Jasper\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 10, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind. - U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced that his office will host a Veterans History Project event at Northwood Retirement Community Assisted Living from 1:30 PM  3:30 PM EST on Friday, November 20th, 2015. The Veterans History Project is an effort by the Library of Congress to preserve the historic experiences of those who served in the United States military by recording their personal narratives and archiving them for use by historians, teachers, and the general public.\r\nDonnelly said, The men and women who courageously served our country have moving stories to share about their service. It is important that we record their statements so that future generations have the opportunity to learn from the experiences and appreciate the sacrifices they have made to protect our freedoms.\r\nDonnellys staff and other Hoosier volunteers will be present to interview veterans. Area veterans are encouraged to attend in order to have their stories recorded.Individuals in the community who would like to volunteer to interview the veterans are also welcome.\r\nVeterans who want to share their stories and volunteers who want to interview veterans should RSVP to Donnellys office by contacting Jessica Griffith at Jessica_Griffith@donnelly.senate.govor by calling 317-226-5555.\r\nA flyer for the event can be downloadedhere\r\nFor more information about the services provided by Donnellys office  including assistance with a federal agency, such as the Department of Defense or Department of Veterans Affairs, inquiries about medals, and other veterans resources  please visit www.donnelly.senate.gov/helpor call the Senators Indianapolis office at 317-226-5555.\r\nWHEN/WHERE:\r\nFriday, November 20th, 2015\r\n1:30 - 3:30 p.m. EST\r\nNorthwood Retirement Community Assisted Living Facility\r\n400 W Pleasant View Drive\r\nJasper, IN 47546\r\nTO RSVP: Contact Jessica Griffith at Jessica_Griffith@donnelly.senate.govor 317-226-5555.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-passage-of-care-package-in-annual-defense-bill-important-step-to-combat-scourge-of-military-suicide", "Donnelly: Passage of ‘Care Package’ in Annual Defense Bill Important Step to Combat Scourge of Military Suicide", "2015-11-10", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Passage of Care Package in Annual Defense Bill Important Step to Combat Scourge of Military Suicide\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenate passes provisions of Donnellys Care Package as part of national defense bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 10, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly welcomed the Senate passage of the National DefenseAuthorization Act (NDAA) today with support from both parties by a vote of 91 to 3. The national defense bill includes Donnellys bipartisan Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package\" (\"Care Package\"), which will improve mental health care for servicemembers and their families. The national defense bill has passed the Senate and House and now goes to President Obama to be signed into law.\r\nDonnelly said, The Senate passage of the Care Package today is an important step to combat the scourge of military suicide. We owe it to our servicemembers to have quality mental health care available to them, and to deliver that care in a way that meets their needs  whether by the DoD, VA, or community providers. That is why I introduced the Care Package, to help improve mental health care for the men and women who have served our country. I am pleased the Senate passed the national defense bill, and I hope the President signs it into law.\r\nDonnelly has worked the past three years to advance commonsense, bipartisan legislation through his role on the Senate Armed Services Committee. In March, Donnelly introduced the Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package (Care Package), three bipartisan bills to help expand access to quality mental health care for servicemembers and veterans through both Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities, as well as local community providers. Military mental health provisions from the Care Package first passed the Senate in June as part of the national defense bill and will help ensure that there are a sufficient number of the best trained mental health providers for servicemembers and veterans. The Senate and House of Representatives recently reached an agreement on a final compromise bill. Now that both the Senate and House have approved the National Defense Authorization Act conference agreement, it must be signed into law by President Obama.\r\nAs part of the Care Package, Donnelly took into account how stigma, provider shortages, and budget constraints are impacting when and how veterans and servicemembers seek care. Donnelly is working to improve access to quality mental health care through the expanded use of specially-trained community providers. Donnellys Community Provider Readiness Recognition Act (co-sponsored by Senator Joni Ernst, R-IA) is inspired by the Star Behavioral Health Provider Network, a program led by Purdues Military Family Research Institute. Donnellys provision will create a special designation for private sector, community mental health providers who demonstrate  either through training or past experience  a strong knowledge of military culture and evidence-based therapies for mental health issues common to veterans and servicemembers. It will create a regularly-updated online registry, so veterans and servicemembers can search for these specially-designated community providers in their area.\r\nDonnellys Military and Veterans Mental Health Provider Assessment Act (co-sponsored by Senator Roger Wicker, R-MS) will require that all DoD primary care and mental health care providers have received evidence-based training on suicide risk recognition and management and that their training be updated to keep pace with changes in mental health care best practices.\r\nAdditionally, elements of Donnellys Frontline Mental Health Provider Training Act (co-sponsored by Senator John Boozman, R-AR) were included in the Senate committee report, urging DoD to train physician assistants to specialize in psychiatric care in order to help meet the increasing demands for mental health services among servicemembers and their families. To learn more about the Care Package click here.\r\nDonnellys Care Package will build on the progress made by the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law late last year. The Sexton Act  named for Hoosier Jacob Sexton, a National Guardsman who took his life in 2009  for the first time requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembers  Active, Guard, and Reserve.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-cdbg-award-for-michigan-city", "Visclosky Announces CDBG Award for Michigan City", "2015-11-09", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congressman Pete Visclosky announced today that Michigan City will receive $602,943 under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developments Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The CDBG program aims to develop communities by supporting decent housing, suitable living environments, and expanded economic opportunities.\nMayor Ron Meer of Michigan City stated, Receiving the CDBG grant is vitally important to the work we are doing here in Michigan City, especially in our Westside area. Eliminating blighted structures, providing home improvement assistance, building safe and affordable new homes, and providing improved infrastructure are ways we are leveraging this money into positive change for our community. In addition, this grant money will allow us to continue providing much needed social services for those in need.\nCongressman Pete Visclosky stated, I applaud Mayor Meer and the leaders of Michigan City for utilizing this program to improve economic opportunities for the residents of Michigan City. I look forward to seeing the continued positive results of their great work.\nFor additional information on the CDBG program, click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/nictd-to-spend-90-million-on-positive-train-control", "NICTD to spend $90 million on positive train control", "2015-11-09", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/nictd-to-spend-90-million-on-positive-train-control\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 4:16:24 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                NICTD to spend $90 million on positive train control", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-releases-statement-on-passing-of-amos-brown", "Donnelly Releases Statement on Passing of Amos Brown", "2015-11-07", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Releases Statement on Passing of Amos Brown\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, November 7, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement after the announcement that Amos Brown has passed away.\r\nDonnelly said, Amos was a once-in-a-generation community leader and a tireless advocate for Hoosiers and all those who didnt have a voice. Everyone in Indiana knew Amos, and had so much respect for his work in the community. There will be others who will take up his causes and speak to the same issues, but there will never be another Amos. I send my sympathies and prayers to his family. We will all miss him.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-meets-with-general-votel-and-nswc-crane-leaders-highlights-work-by-nswc-crane-to-support-military-special-operations", "Donnelly Meets with General Votel and NSWC Crane Leaders, Highlights Work by NSWC Crane to Support Military Special Operations", "2015-11-06", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Meets with General Votel and NSWC Crane Leaders, Highlights Work by NSWC Crane to Support Military Special Operations\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator invited Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command to visit NSWC Crane\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 6, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCrane, Ind.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly hosted 4-star Army General Joseph Votel, the Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane (NSWC Crane). The visit highlighted the cutting-edge work that NSWC Crane does to support military special operations and opportunities for expanded collaboration. As SOCOM Commander, General Votel oversees special operations forces across the military services, such as Army Green Berets and Rangers, Navy SEALs, Air Force Air Commandos, and Marine Raiders. Donnelly and General Votel will be joined by the head of the Indiana National Guard Major General Corey Carr and other leaders at NSWC Crane.\r\nDonnelly, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member of the Strategic Force Subcommittee said, NSWC Crane has a long history of providing rapid, innovative, and highly-reliable support to our special operators. As our country continues to rely on our military special operations forces to perform our most sensitive and difficult missions around the world, NSWC Crane will continue to have a critical role developing the tools they need to succeed using the best technology available. I am glad General Votel joined me at NSWC Crane to see first-hand the hard work Hoosiers do every day for special operations command, and I will continue working to make sure that our servicemembers have the support they need to keep our country safe.\r\n\r\nDonnelly meets with General Votel at NSWC Crane.\r\n\r\nGeneral Votel said, It has been humbling to spend the day meeting with and learning from NSWC Crane's amazing Americans. With support from the great State of Indiana and leaders like Senator Donnelly, Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane directly contributes to America's special operators by providing high-confidence systems through rapid innovation  they play a key role in keeping us all safe.\"\r\nCaptain JT Elder, Commanding Officer of NSWC Crane said, \"Having the opportunity to share information directly with the U.S. Special Operations Command is a great honor for Crane. Senator Donnelly is very interested in working to support the Special Operations Forces and their important role in the security of this nation.\"\r\nIn July 2015, Donnelly sent a letter inviting General Votel to visit NSWC Crane and learn more about the unique capabilities offered by NSWC Crane to support SOCOM. During the visit, Donnelly and General Votel will tour NSWC Crane and learn more about innovative solutions for the special operations community.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-releases-statement-in-response-to-president-obamas-rejection-of-the-keystone-xl-pipeline", "Donnelly Releases Statement in Response to President Obama’s Rejection of the Keystone XL Pipeline", "2015-11-06", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Releases Statement in Response to President Obamas Rejection of the Keystone XL Pipeline\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 6, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, IN  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement in response to President Obamas announcement today that the proposal to build the Keystone XL oil pipeline has been rejected. Donnelly has continually supported the Keystone XL pipeline by introducing bipartisan legislation to prevent lengthy delays on the project and pushing for his Opportunity Agenda that would support investments in American infrastructure that promote energy security and an all-in approach to energy production, like Keystone XL pipeline.\r\nDonnelly said, At a time when our country is making important investments in our energy economy, the Presidents decision to reject the Keystone Pipeline is disappointing. A strong energy economy is critical to our countrys economic success and our national security, and I will continue to support safe, common sense investments that strengthen our economy.\r\n\r\nDonnelly, who helped the Senate pass legislation approving the Keystone XL pipeline earlier this year, believes in an all-in approach toward American energy production as part of hisOpportunity Agenda. Donnelly thinks that we should be investing our money in energy infrastructure projects here rather than spending hundreds of billions of dollars to purchase energy from overseas. In order to invest in domestic energy infrastructure projects, there must be an efficient approval process in place.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/a-hero-in-their-midst", "A hero in their midst", "2015-11-05", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "7895 Broadway, Suite A\n\nMerrillville, IN 46410\n\n  Phone: (219) 795-1844  \n\tFax: (219) 795-1850", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/statements-for-the-record/surface-transportation-reauthorization-and-reform-act-of-2015", "Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015, October 22, 2015", "2015-11-04", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "General Support\nMr. Chairman, I commend you and Ranking Member DeFazio for working together to bring a six-year reauthorization bill before the full committee today. I also want to acknowledge the contributions of Highway Subcommittee Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Norton.\nThis bill basically provides flat funding with adjustments for inflation, and frankly, it falls short of providing all the investments needed maintain the safety of our existing infrastructure -- much less the new infrastructure America needs to compete globally. I wish we were considering a bolder bill that authorizes truly robust funding that is sustainable over the long-haul. On the plus side, this bill provides the much-needed certainty that can only come from a long-term bill. Instead of another short-term patch, this six year bill will give state and local governments the ability to plan good projects and actually build them.\nI am also pleased that this bill focuses on freight transportation, which is critical for a state like Indiana and a city like Indianapolis, which is the crossroads of America. I strongly support the rail provisions in this bill to get Positive Train Control (PTC) implemented and to increase resources for grade crossings. I am pleased that the hazardous materials provisions will provide more real-time information about hazardous cargo traveling through each state. I believe that these changes can help save lives.\nTodays bill is far from my ideal or my dream bill. But I believe its the best bill that we can get passed and signed into law this year. So Im urging my colleagues to support this bill and lets rebuild our neglected infrastructure. I yield back the balance of my time.\n\nGeneral Support of the Managers Amendment\n\nGeneral Support- Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the Big 4 process in this committee and the way you and Ranking Member DeFazio have encouraged each of us to work with our colleagues across the aisle to find and build support for amendments to improve the bill and make changes that can help our communities and our constituents. I also appreciate your collaboration to include many of our recommendations into this managers amendment.\nBuy America- I joined my colleague, Mr. Hanna of New York, to submit an amendment that we believe would help improve the implementation of the Buy America provisions in the bill. Im disappointed this amendment was not accepted into the managers amendment, but I hope that we can work together on ways to improve the Buy America program, which I strongly support.\nMr. Chairman, although Im disappointed that my amendments were not included in the managers amendment, I am urging my colleagues to support the managers amendment. \n\nOther Amendments\n\nRibble-Carson-Emergency Vehicles\n\nMr. Chairman, I want to thank my colleague, Mr. Ribble from Wisconsin, for working with me on this amendment. This is a good amendment because it helps to expedite the delivery of emergency vehicles to first responders who need them. Id also like to enter into the record a bipartisan letter from a number of our colleagues in support of this change. We strongly support a uniform standard under federal law to ensure that fire trucks and other heavy emergency vehicles are exempt from axle weight rules that are designed for commercial vehicles. This should apply to emergency vehicles in service and for delivery. By allowing fire trucks other emergency vehicles to be delivered by road, without citations for possibly exceeded the current weight restrictions, the fire departments and localities that need this equipment can avoid the freight delivery fees which can add several thousand dollars to already significant costs. As the Ranking Member of the Emergency Management Subcommittee, and as a former former cop and first responder, I believe we should do everything possible to get fire-fighting and life-saving equipment delivered as expeditiously as possible.\nMr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this common-sense amendment.\nRokita-Carson AmendmentDonor States\nMr. Chairman, I join my fellow Hoosier, Mr. Rokita, in offering an amendment that will help our home state of Indiana. This amendment is very similar to one offered by our Senate colleagues, Jeff Flake of Arizona and Joe Donnelly of Indiana, in the other body. Our amendment would restore an equity guarantee provision to ensure funding fairness.\nHistorically, Indiana has been a donor state and since the creation of the Federal Highway Program, Hoosiers have sent half-a-billion dollars to other states to subsidize their road construction and maintenance. And if our roads were in great shape, I might not complain. But, unfortunately, thats not the case. Just this summer, a portion of I-65, which connects Indianapolis to Chicago, was closed for an extended period for emergency repairs to prevent a bridge collapse. The Indiana Department of Transportation estimates that we need an additional $260 million dollars annually to properly maintain our roads  this is far above current state and federal funding levels.\nSAFETEA-LU, the last six-year reauthorization bill, included an Equity Bonus Program which guaranteed that each state received back 92% of its share of contributions to the Highway Trust Fund. Since this provision expired in 2009, Indiana has slipped backward, and today only receives 91% of its share of contributions to the Highway Trust Fund. The entire Indiana delegation wrote to our Chairman and Ranking Member asking for a 95%rate of returnon our states share of contributions. Instead, the bill includes at 95% guarantee on theamount of contributions. Unfortunately, this isnt the same thing. The difference would result in an additional $38 million dollars for Indiana. Our amendment will ensure that the rate is calculated correctly.\nMr. Chairman, this amendment would adjust the funding formula so that donor states like Indiana are treated a bit more equitably. I know we dont want to completely reopen the formula debate, but this is a real concern for Indiana. So I hope that youll consider working with us on ways to address these concerns. \nCarson-Waters AmendmentTransportation Goals for Urban Communities\nMr. Chairman, Im offering this amendment on behalf of my colleague, Ms. Waters of California, who is not a member of this committee, but she is a passionate advocate for transportation resources for underserved areas. This amendment reflects the Integrated Transportation and Economic Development Act, which was introduced earlier this month, and which I was proud to join as an original cosponsor. This bill simply adds one new factor to the existing federal goals to ensure that economically distressed urban communities are not left behind. Currently, the Federal Aid-Highway Program includes goals for safety, infrastructure condition, congestion mitigation, system reliability, freight movement and economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and reduced project delays. The program also establishes performance measures that require states to report on their progress. Freight movement and economic vitality is defined as To improve the national freight network, strengthen the ability ofruralcommunities to access national and international trade markets, and support regional economic development. But there arenogoals in this program that are focused on ensuring that economically distressed urban communities arent overlooked or left out.\nMr. Chairman, this amendment does not cost any additional money, but I think its important that urban communitiesandrural communities arebothincluded in our national goals. Since rural communities are specifically included in the national goals, I think its just a matter of fairness to make this small but important change.\nMr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/more-nwi-hospitals-treat-veterans-closer-to-home", "More NWI hospitals treat veterans closer to home", "2015-11-04", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/more-nwi-hospitals-treat-veterans-closer-to-home\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 3:49:55 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                More NWI hospitals treat veterans closer to home", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/donnelly-speaks-on-senate-floor-in-support-of-his-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-wotus-rule", "Donnelly Speaks on Senate Floor in Support of his Bipartisan Bill to Improve WOTUS rule", "2015-11-03", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Speaks on Senate Floor in Support of his Bipartisan Bill to Improve WOTUS rule \n            Donnelly spoke on the floor of the United States Senate to urge Congress to act and explain how the Federal Water Quality Protection Act would strike a reasonable, bipartisan compromise, while also addressing the commonsense principles needed to shape a final WOTUS rule and requiring straightforward procedures that the Environmental Protection Agency failed to include.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-senate-should-act-to-clarify-coverage-of-clean-water-act-will-continue-pushing-for-a-bipartisan-permanent-solution", "Donnelly: Senate Should Act to Clarify Coverage of Clean Water Act, Will Continue Pushing For a Bipartisan, Permanent Solution", "2015-11-03", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Senate Should Act to Clarify Coverage of Clean Water Act, Will Continue Pushing For a Bipartisan, Permanent Solution\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAfter Senator spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate and shared stories of Hoosier farmers, his bipartisan bill to improve Waters of the U.S. receives strong bipartisan support in Senate vote\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 3, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly joined a bipartisan majority of Senators in voting to move forward with considering the bill he helped author and introduce to improve the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. The bill was supported by 57 Senators from both sides of the aisle, though Donnellys bipartisan bill that he introduced with Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) fell short of the 60-vote threshold required to proceed. Donnelly also spoke on the floor of the United States Senate this afternoon to urge Congress to act and explain how the Federal Water Quality Protection Act would strike a reasonable, bipartisan compromise, offer commonsense principles needed to shape a final WOTUS rule, and require straightforward procedures that the Environmental Protection Agency would need to follow.\r\nDonnelly, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said, I am pleased the Federal Water Quality Protection Act received strong bipartisan support in the Senate, but I am disappointed we did not have enough votes to move forward in considering our bill. Whether you are a Republican or Democrat, a Hoosier farmer or small business owner in Indiana, or a bureaucrat at the EPA, we all want clean water. Congress should act to clarify the coverage of the Clean Water Act, or the issue will continue to be litigated in the courts for years to come. I am willing to do this work, and I will continue to push for Congress to pass a constructive, permanent solution to the WOTUS rule.\r\n\r\nTo watch Donnellys floor speech, click here.\r\n\r\nOn the floor of the Senate this afternoon, Donnelly said, If we are going to ensure that our clean water protections are effective, however, we need to work together and use the feedback from the people who work with the land every dayCountless Hoosier farmers are frustrated that Washington bureaucrats are calling the shots, rather than working together to develop sensible environmental protectionsIts time to roll up our sleeves and provide our ag producers, conservationists, and county and local governments with the regulatory certainty they need to continue efforts to improve water quality. Thats why I was proud to help author and introduce the Federal Water Quality Protection Act with bipartisan group of senators.\r\nMost Hoosiers believe we can get more accomplished when we work together, and I have worked across the aisle on what I believe is a very responsible solution. I hope today well continue this debate. It will be difficult, but we have the ability to get this right. If Congress fails to act, our ag community will be faced with continued confusion and uncertainty, and we will not have strengthened our efforts to protect the waters of this country.                                       \r\nDuring his speech, Donnelly also shared the perspectives of Hoosier farmers, saying:\r\nJust listen to farmers like Mike Shuter and Mark Legan. Mike is an Indiana Corn Growers Association member from Frankton, Indiana. He who won the National Corn Growers Association Good Steward Award Winner this year for his sustainable corn farming practices. Mike said, I want clean drinking water for my wife, kids, and grandkids. We work hard to reduce the amount of pesticides, insecticides and fertilizer on our farm. The EPA is going too far by attempting to unilaterally claim jurisdiction over my farmland.\r\nMark, a farmer, who received the American Soybean Associations Conservation Legacy Award in 2013, said: Farmers have been good stewards of the land for generations. We have found ways to produce more while using less pesticides and fertilizers. Waters of the US gives the EPA one-sided jurisdiction over our ditches and fields, makes it more difficult to grow crops, and makes it harder to feed the world.\r\nEarlier this year, Donnelly and Barrasso led a bipartisan group of Senators including Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in introducing the Federal Water Quality Protection Act.\r\nThe bill says that the Administration cannot complete the rule without following (1) the principles and (2) the procedural steps in the bill.\r\n \r\nIn the principles, the bill includes explicit protections for waters that most everyone agrees should be covered, like navigable waters, drinking water sources, and wetlands that filter out pollutants from our rivers and lakes. It also provides commonsense exemptions for isolated ponds and agricultural or roadside ditchesmost of which EPA has indicated they never intended to cover.\r\nThe procedural steps include reviewing economic and small business impact and requiring consultation with stakeholders such as the states and the ag community, including soil and water conservation districts.\r\n \r\nFinally, the bill gives a clear deadline, requiring the EPA and Army Corps to complete its rule by December 31, 2016.\r\nThe bill is supported by the Indiana Farm Bureau, Simon Property Group, Indiana Corn Growers Association, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Waters Advocacy Coalition, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and manyother ag organizations.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/save-the-date-service-academy-open-house", "Save the Date: Service Academy Open House", "2015-11-02", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November2, 2015\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDear Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAs your Representative, each year I have the privilege of nominating a limited number of highly qualified individuals to attend four of the United States Service Academies.In the upcoming weeks I will be hosting a ServiceAcademyOpen House for those interested in learning more about theacademyapplication and nomination process.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWe will have representatives from the Service Academies available to answer your questions, including the Superintendent from West Point. We will also provide a brief overview of the nomination process. If you, or a student you know is interested, please pass along this information.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe open housedetails are as follows:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWHEN:Saturday, November 21, 2015 -Noon\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWHERE:Charles A Tindley Accelerated School\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t3960 Meadows Drive\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIndianapolis, IN 46205\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTo find out more information about the process my office uses to select nominees, visit my websitehere. If you have questions about the event, please call my Indianapolis office at (317) 283-6516.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYour Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAndr", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-statement-on-senate-consideration-of-his-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-waters-of-the-us-rule", "Donnelly Statement on Senate Consideration of His Bipartisan Legislation to Improve “Waters of the U.S. Rule”", "2015-11-02", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Statement on Senate Consideration of His Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Waters of the U.S. Rule\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 2, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement in advance of the Senate considering his bipartisan legislation, the Federal Water Quality Protect Act on Tuesday. The bill would address the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers attempt to define the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.\r\nDonnelly said, I am pleased that the Senate will be considering the bipartisan legislation I introduced with a group of senators including Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). No one wants cleaner water or healthier land more than the families who live and work on the land, alongside these waters every day. This bipartisan legislation would ensure the WOTUS rule can be written in a way that makes sense for Hoosiers and all Americans. I am hopeful a bipartisan majority of my Senate colleagues will support this commonsense bipartisan bill.\r\nEarlier this year, Donnelly and Barrasso led a bipartisan group of Senators in introducing legislation to improve WOTUS.\r\nThe bill says that the Administration cannot complete the rule without following (1) the principles and (2) the procedural steps in the bill.\r\n \r\nIn the principles, the bill includes explicit protections for waters that most everyone agrees should be covered, like navigable waters, drinking water sources, and wetlands that filter out pollutants from our rivers and lakes. It also provides commonsense exemptions for isolated ponds and agricultural or roadside ditchesmost of which EPA has indicated they never intended to cover.\r\nThe procedural steps include reviewing economic and small business impact and requiring consultation with stakeholders such as the states and the ag community, including soil and water conservation districts.\r\n \r\nFinally, the bill gives a clear deadline, requiring the EPA and Army Corps to complete its rule by December 31, 2016.\r\nThe bill is supported by the Indiana Farm Bureau, Simon Property Group, Indiana Corn Growers Association, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Waters Advocacy Coalition, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and many other ag organizations.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congress-delays-safety-tech-deadline-averts-south-shore-shutdown", "Congress delays safety tech deadline; averts South Shore shutdown", "2015-11-01", "2015", "2015-11", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congress-delays-safety-tech-deadline-averts-south-shore-shutdown\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 3:25:57 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Congress delays safety tech deadline; averts South Shore shutdown", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-helps-introduce-bill-with-bipartisan-group-of-senators-to-encourage-healthy-living", "Donnelly Helps Introduce Bill with Bipartisan Group of Senators to Encourage Healthy Living", "2015-10-29", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Helps Introduce Bill with Bipartisan Group of Senators to Encourage Healthy Living\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tPHIT Act would allow families and individuals to use money set aside in a pre-tax medical account for certain fitness expenses\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 29, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly helped introduce bipartisan legislation today with Senators John Thune (R-SD), Chris Murphy (D-CT) Johnny Isakson (R-GA)that would allow families and individuals to make certain fitness-related purchases from pre-tax health care accounts, such as for gym memberships, fitness equipment, and youth sports league fees.\r\nDonnelly said, Regular physical activity is a form of preventive health care and one of the most important things you can do for your health. That is why I am pleased to help introduce the PHIT Act, bipartisan legislation that would create incentives for families and individuals to become more physically active by allowing them to use money they have set aside in a pre-tax medical account for particular fitness expenses. Healthy lifestyles prevent and reduce disease and illness, and ultimately reduce health care costs. Thats good for our families and its good for our country.\r\nThune said, Americans are living healthier, more active lifestyles and prioritizing wellness and prevention for themselves and their families, said Thune. The PHIT Act encourages families to continue living a healthy lifestyle by making it easier for them to purchase certain fitness-related items using money theyve already saved in their flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts. My hope is that the PHIT Act incentives others to join this movement as well.\r\nMurphy said, Heres the reality: obesity and diabetes are costing taxpayers billions, and we should be using our tax code to incentivize people to stay in shape and out of the health care system. Gym memberships and sports fees often cost too much,and the PHIT Act is a great first step toward encouraging people to get active and stay healthy.\r\nIsakson said,This legislation empowers Americans to make healthy choices and advances health without creating a new government program.\r\nQualified expenses under the PHIT Act would not include expenses at private clubs or facilities that include golf, hunting, sailing, or riding. For sports equipment, reimbursement for a single item cannot exceed $250 and pre-tax dollars cannot be used for apparel or footwear.\r\nDuring the 113th Congress, the PHIT Act was introduced in the House of Representatives with more than 50 bipartisan cosponsors and was introduced as part of a larger legislative package in the Senate; neither bill cleared its respective chamber. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-optimistic-about-grissoms-future-despite-not-being-selected-as-air-force-preferred-location-for-the-third-kc-46a-", "Donnelly Optimistic about Grissom’s Future Despite Not Being Selected as Air Force Preferred Location for the Third KC-46A", "2015-10-29", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Optimistic about Grissoms Future Despite Not Being Selected as Air Force Preferred Location for the Third KC-46A \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator, who pushed for Grissoms selection, invites Secretary of the Air Force to visit the Air Reserve Base\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 29, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. After Grissom Air Reserve Base was not selected today as the Air Forces preferred location for the third KC-46A Main Operating Base, U.S. Senator Donnelly expressed optimism about the bases future. He also invited Air Force Secretary Deborah L. James to visit Grissom ARB in the coming months.\r\nDonnelly said, While I was disappointed by todays announcement, the fact that Grissom was among the final four bases considered for the KC-46A mission in this round is cause for real optimism about what the future holds for Grissom and the 434th Air Refueling Wing. It is confirmation of what Hoosiers already know  that the men and women of the 434th Refueling Wing are among the best in the country. This process shone a light on the 434th Refueling Wing's experience, expertise and record of excellence.\r\n\"I know from multiple conversations with the Air Force leadership that they have a strong appreciation for our Hoosier Airmen and for the factors that continue to make Grissom an ideal home for the KC-46A in the future, including our exceptional infrastructure, strategic location, andunparalleled community support.This is only the third KC-46A main operating base to be announced. There are many more to follow in the years to come. To ensure we are well positioned for the next opportunity, Ive invited Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James to visit Grissom in the months ahead.\r\nIn June 2015, Donnelly met with Secretary James to discuss the possibility of Grissom ARB becoming the new home for the KC-46A mission and followed up with a letter inviting James to visit the base before the Air Force made a final decision on the site for the next KC-46A base.\r\nIn February 2015, Donnelly joined members of the Indiana congressional delegation in sending a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Deborah James urging the Air Force to give strong consideration to Grissom to host the KC-46A.\r\nFull text of the letter to Secretary James follows. To see a PDF of the signed copy, click here.\r\n\r\nOctober 29, 2015\r\nThe Honorable Deborah L. James\r\nSecretary of the Air Force\r\n1670 Air Force Pentagon\r\nWashington, DC 20330-1670\r\nDear Secretary James:\r\nIn light of todays KC-46A basing decision, I am writing to invite you to visit the 434th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) at Grissom Air Reserve Base (ARB) in the coming year.\r\nWhile I am disappointed that Grissom ARB was not selected as the Air Forces preferred location for the third KC-46A Main Operating Base (MOB 3) in todays decision, I appreciate your assessment that the 434th ARW was among the top candidates for this mission nationwide. As you have noted in our past conversations, Grissoms strong performance as a finalist in this round bodes well for the future.\r\nIn 2011, the Air Force contracted with Boeing to acquire 179 KC-46A refueling tankers to recapitalize the aging tanker fleet. This remains a top Air Force acquisition priority, and there will be numerous KC-46A basing actions in the coming years. As you are the deciding authority on these basing actions, I believe it would be of significant value for you visit Grissom ARB in person, given the likelihood that its strategic location, ample infrastructure, and outstanding Airmen will make it a top candidate again in future KC-46A basing rounds.\r\nThe air refueling mission is critical to our nations defense, and Grissom ARB is home to one of the Air Forces best refueling wings. With proximity to refueling tracks and airspace availability, Grissom ARBs strategic location allows for superior mission effectiveness. The base has ample capacity to support additional aircraft, including hangar, runway and ramp space. Situated in a low-cost area with minimal environmental concerns, any infrastructure needs can be easily accommodated. What truly sets Grissom ARB apart, however, are the men and women of the 434th ARW whose experience, expertise, and commitment to excellence poise the base for a smooth transition to the KC-46A mission, given the opportunity.\r\nI appreciate your personal engagement throughout the assessment process for this basing decision, and I look forward to maintaining a strong partnership as the Air Force continues to meet our national security needs in an exceedingly difficult budget environment. In these difficult times, I hope you will continue looking to the Air Forces Reserve Component as a valuable tool to achieve savings while maintaining mission effectiveness across the Total Air Force. The 434th ARW is a prime example of how valuable a capability we have in the Air Force Reserve.\r\nThank you for your service and leadership. I look forward to hosting you at Grissom ARB in the coming months.\r\n      Sincerely,\r\n      Joe Donnelly\r\n      United States Senator\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-helps-senate-pass-extension-delaying-implementation-of-positive-train-control", "Donnelly Helps Senate Pass Extension Delaying Implementation of Positive Train Control", "2015-10-28", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Helps Senate Pass Extension Delaying Implementation of Positive Train Control\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator urged Congress to extend deadline for rail operators to implement positive train control\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 28, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly today helped the Senate pass legislation that would extend the deadline for rail operators to implement positive train control (PTC) for three-to-five years. The bill passed the House and now heads to President Obama to be signed into law. The extension is for three years but also includes a waiver for an additional two-year extension on a case-by-case basis. The extension comes after Donnelly had been pressing for Congress to extend the deadline for rail operators to implement PTC.\r\nDonnelly said, This is good news for our rail operators, including the South Shore Line. As we all know, the South Shore line is vital to Northern Indianas economy and it is a key link to Chicago and elsewhere for all our citizens.\r\nRailroads play an important role in our state and countrys economy. Many Hoosier passengers and businesses rely on dependable service and we could not afford a disruption of rail service. This is a responsible, bipartisan solution that will help ensure the safety of freight and passenger rail operations without creating any lapse in service. This is an example of what we can accomplish when we work together to solve problems.\r\nDonnelly joined a bipartisan coalition of Senators in sending a letter to Senate leadership urging Congress to extend the deadline for rail operators. Rail operators had been facing a December 31, 2015 deadline to implement PTC and many railroad companies were unable to fully implement PTC by then, which would have led to many service interruptions for commuters and freight deliveries.\r\nIn 2008, Congress required the implementation of PTC on railroads that carry passengers or have high-volume freight traffic with toxic- or poisonous-by-inhalation hazardous materials. PTC is a communications and signaling system that has been identified by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as a technology capable of preventing incidents caused by train operator or dispatcher error.\r\nPTC is expected to reduce the number of incidents due to excessive speed, conflicting train movements, and engineer failure to obey wayside signals.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-meets-with-nswc-crane-expert-praises-crane-as-a-leader-in-protecting-countrys-critical-weapons-and-cyber-systems-against-counterfeit-parts", "Donnelly Meets with NSWC Crane Expert, Praises Crane as a Leader in Protecting Country’s Critical Weapons and Cyber Systems against Counterfeit Parts", "2015-10-27", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Meets with NSWC Crane Expert, Praises Crane as a Leader in Protecting Countrys Critical Weapons and Cyber Systems against Counterfeit Parts\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator introduced provisions included in the national defense bill to protect military systems from the threat of counterfeit parts\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 27, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly met with Brett Hamilton, Division Chief Engineer for Trusted Microelectronics for Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane today in advance of Hamiltons testimony before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. The meeting focused on Cranes large and growing role in protecting military systems. Donnelly and Hamilton also discussed provisions Donnelly authored in the annual national defense bill to better combat the threat of counterfeit parts in Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain, such as requiring DoD to conduct a first-of-its-kind review to determine whether counterfeit parts have impacted the failure of military systems in the field. NSWC Crane has received national recognition as a critical center of expertise to verify microelectronic components can be trusted, and ensure the integrity of microelectronics used in Department in Defense (DoD) Weapon and Cyber Systems.\r\nHamilton testified before the House Armed Services Committee as an expert on counterfeit parts in the Joint Federated Assurance Center (JFAC). JFAC is a federation of DoD organizations that have a shared interest in promoting software and hardware assurance in defense programs, systems, and supporting activities. Congress passed a law in 2013 to create the JFAC, which brings together the greatest minds on hardware and software protection across DoD and the intelligence community, pooling their resources, efforts, and expertise to better protect DoD hardware and cyber systems against malicious actors. DoD is more dependent than ever on technological solutions for meeting mission requirements, and this has led to heightened awareness that adversaries could target DoD supply chains, insert malicious functionality into software and hardware, or degrade critical systems with counterfeit parts.\r\nDonnelly, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member of the Strategic Force Subcommittee, said, Counterfeit and compromised electronic parts pose a large and growing threat that can undermine our nations military systems and equipment, posing a serious risk to the life and safety of servicemembers. NSWC Crane is a leader in ensuring vital software and hardware critical to our weapons and cyber systems can be trusted and works properly. As we rely more and more on technology to meet mission requirements, I am proud that we can rely on the hard working Hoosiers at NSWC Crane to keep our country safe.\r\n\r\nDonnelly meets with representatives from NSWC Crane.\r\nCaptain Jeffrey Elder, Commanding Officer of NSWC Crane, said, The House Armed Services Committee's request for NSWC Crane to testify at their hearing on assured access to Trusted microelectronics is evidence of Crane's leadership role in protecting the integrity of military/cyber systems from the threat of counterfeit parts. Senator Donnelly has not only recognized the potential national security issues associated with counterfeit parts but has been fully supportive of Crane's capabilities and has advanced policy discussions within the Senate to address these risks.\"\r\nDonnelly has continuously advocated for NSWC Crane as a vital contributor to ensuring the United States security, especially to protect military systems from the threat of counterfeit parts. In response to this emerging threat, Donnelly introduced provisions that were included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2015, which passed Congress earlier this month. The legislation would streamline the structure of the JFAC, ensuring resources go directly to the experts, including those at NSWC Crane, and not to added layers of unnecessary bureaucracy. Additionally, another provision introduced by Donnelly would require JFAC experts like those at NSWC Crane to look for counterfeit parts in fielded military systems that have failed in some way to determine the presence, scope, and impact of counterfeit parts that make it into the field, potentially putting national security and the lives of servicemembers at risk.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-to-leader-mcconnell-end-gridlock-and-pass-export-import-bank-reauthorization", "Donnelly to Leader McConnell: End Gridlock and Pass Export-Import Bank Reauthorization", "2015-10-27", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly to Leader McConnell: End Gridlock and Pass Export-Import Bank Reauthorization\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator sends letter to Leader McConnell following House passage of Ex-Im Bank reauthorization\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 27, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. After the House tonight passed a long-term reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank with bipartisan support, U.S. Senator Donnelly urged the Senate to act. Donnelly sent a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, saying in part, I encourage you to demonstrate leadership by ending the gridlock and allowing a stand-alone vote in the Senate on a common sense reauthorization that has the support of a bipartisan majority in both chambers, including nearly 70 members of the Senate from both sides of the aisle.\r\nDonnelly, who serves on the Senate Banking Committee, also wrote in the letter, As you know, the Ex-Im Bank helps to level the playing field for American companies, routinely returns money to the U.S. Treasury, and protects and creates jobs here at home. By allowing the charter to expire, however, we have made it harderif not impossiblefor some American manufacturers to export their products and keep Americans working. In fact, we have recently seen a growing number of American businesses reducing or shutting down their operations and shifting jobs overseas.\r\nDonnelly has continuously advocated for the reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank. In July 2015, he helped the Senate pass a bipartisan amendment that would reform and reauthorize the Export-Import Banks charter through September 2019. The amendment was identical to the bipartisan bill Donnelly helped introduce earlier this year.\r\nSince 1992, the Export-Import Bank has returned more than $7 billion in profits to the Treasury Department, with $675 million of that coming in fiscal year 2014. The Export-Import Bank approved $20.5 billion in authorizations in fiscal year 2014 alone, which supported an estimated $27.5 billion of U.S. exports and more than 164,000 U.S. jobs.\r\nAccording to the Export-Import Bank, since 2007, the Bank has directly helped approximately 140 Hoosier companies export more than $4 billion in goods and services overseas. During its 80-plus year existence, the Export-Import Bank has garnered support from every President during that span and previously had been renewed consistently with bipartisan support by Congress.\r\nFull text of Donnellys letter to Leader McConnell follows. To see the signed letter, click here.\r\n\r\nOctober 27, 2015\r\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnell\r\nMajority Leader\r\nU.S. Senate\r\nThe Capitol, Room S-230\r\nWashington, D.C. 20510\r\nDear Majority Leader McConnell,\r\nEarlier this year, we sat down to discuss our shared desire to pass commonsense, bipartisan legislation to strengthen our recovering economy and support American families. Despite our differences, we have demonstrated that with tough negotiations and reasonable compromise, we can work together to advance important bills on issues like early childhood education, human trafficking, and our national defense policy.\r\nWe also share a belief that Congress can play an important role in helping our economyeven if that role is simply to not make things worse. Unfortunately, that is exactly what Congress has done by allowing the charter of Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank of the United States to expire.\r\nAs you know, the Ex-Im Bank helps to level the playing field for American companies, routinely returns money to the U.S. Treasury, and protects and creates jobs here at home. By allowing the charter to expire, however, we have made it harderif not impossiblefor some American manufacturers to export their products and keep Americans working. In fact, we have recently seen a growing number of American businesses reducing or shutting down their operations and shifting jobs overseas.\r\nNow that the House has voted to pass a long-term reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank, I encourage you to demonstrate leadership by ending the gridlock and allowing a stand-alone vote in the Senate on a common sense reauthorization that has the support of a bipartisan majority in both chambers, including nearly 70 members of the Senate from both sides of the aisle.\r\nAmerican manufacturersthe products they manufacture and the jobs they supportare critical to strengthening our economy. Certainly, we should not sacrifice American jobs because of the uncompromising ideology of a few.\r\nI know you want to see the Senate work in a bipartisan, pragmatic manner, and I can think of no better way to demonstrate our shared commitment to strengthening our economy than by scheduling a Senate vote on the House-passed Ex-Im reauthorization bill. \r\nSincerely,\r\nJoe Donnelly", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/indiana-s-business-climate-wins-more-awards", "Indianas business climate wins more awards", "2015-10-26", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/indiana-s-business-climate-wins-more-awards\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 2:32:46 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Indianas business climate wins more awards", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/carson-votes-to-pass-long-term-highway-bill", "Carson Votes to Pass Long-Term Highway Bill", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Andr Carson released the following statement after voting to pass a long-term, six year federal highway bill out of committee today.\nIndiana is the Crossroads of America. Our roads, bridges and highways not only help support our national economy, they support countless Hoosier jobs by transporting goods and services produced across our state. Thats why today I supported a six-year federal highway bill that puts in place policies to improve our nations infrastructure and provide funds for Indianas roads. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly 65% of America's roads are rated as being in less than good condition and 25% of bridges need to be replaced. In Marion County that percentage is even higher  38%.\nWhile todays bill is far from perfect, Im grateful for the certainty that it will provide to state and local governments that are looking to plan and build future projects.\nAs the Ranking Member of the Emergency Management Subcommittee, I am pleased that three of my amendments were considered in bill:\n Allowing a uniform standard under federal law to ensure that fire trucks and other heavy emergency vehicles are exempt from axle weight rules allowing them to save time and money (approved)\n\tCorrecting the Federal Aid-Highway Program goals to ensure economically distressed urban communities are not left behind (approved)\n\tFixing the funding formula so that states like Indiana are treated more equitably. For too long, Hoosier taxpayers have provided millions of dollars to roads in other states without a guarantee of a fair return. (not approved)\n I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this legislation signed into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-votes-pass-long-term-highway-bill", "Carson Votes to Pass Long-Term Highway Bill", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", "carson", "https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Andr\u00e9 Carson released the following statement after voting to pass a long-term, six year federal highway bill out of committee today.\n\n\"Indiana is the Crossroads of America. Our roads, bridges and highways not only help support our national economy, they support countless Hoosier jobs by transporting goods and services produced across our state. That's why today I supported a six-year federal highway bill that puts in place policies to improve our nation's infrastructure and provide funds for Indiana's roads.\n\n\"According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly 65% of America's roads are rated as being in less than good condition and 25% of bridges need to be replaced. In Marion County that percentage is even higher \u2013 38%.\n\n\"While today's bill is far from perfect, I'm grateful for the certainty that it will provide to state and local governments that are looking to plan and build future projects.\n\n\"As the Ranking Member of the Emergency Management Subcommittee, I am pleased that three of my amendments were considered in bill:\n\nAllowing a uniform standard under federal law to ensure that fire trucks and other heavy emergency vehicles are exempt from axle weight rules allowing them to save time and money (approved)\n\nCorrecting the Federal Aid-Highway Program goals to ensure economically distressed urban communities are not left behind (approved)\n\nFixing the funding formula so that states like Indiana are treated more equitably. For too long, Hoosier taxpayers have provided millions of dollars to roads in other states without a guarantee of a fair return. (not approved)\n\n\"I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this legislation signed into law.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:28:00Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-pleased-to-report-promising-movement-on-efforts-to-address-prescription-drug-abuse-and-heroin-use", "Donnelly: Pleased to Report Promising Movement on Efforts to Address Prescription Drug Abuse and Heroin Use", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Pleased to Report Promising Movement on Efforts to Address Prescription Drug Abuse and Heroin Use\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator has been working for nearly two years on bipartisan efforts to combat addiction crisis in Indiana and nationwide\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 22, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released a video today on the promising movement at the state and federal level on efforts to address prescription drug abuse and heroin use. For nearly two years, Donnelly has been working to combat the addiction epidemic in Indiana and across the country, by introducing bipartisan legislation, partnering with federal, state, and local officials, and bringing together stakeholders.\r\nDonnelly said, As too many Hoosiers have come to know first-hand, our state  and our country  have a problem with prescription drug addictionIn Indiana, prescription drug abuse is impacting towns large and smallmothers and fathersand far too often our children. The problem of prescription drug abuse has even resulted in an outbreak of HIV, serving as a painful reminder of the health and economic consequences to individuals, families, and communities. For nearly two years, I have been working to combat the prescription opioid abuse and heroin use epidemic in Indiana and across the country, and I am pleased to report promising movement on these efforts. Yesterday, the Governor and the Obama Administration announced steps to address these addiction epidemics and I am encouraged to see that both our federal and state leaders are working to improve prescribing practices and enhance prescriber engagement, raise public awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse and heroin use, and better utilize prescription drug monitoring programs at the state level, all areas where I have been advocating for change.\r\nCombatting the addiction epidemic in our state will take all of us working together, and I will continue to reach out to and partner with officials, stakeholders, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure we are doing all that we can to keep our communities safe and treat those who are suffering from addiction.\r\n\r\nTo watch Donnellys full remarks, click here.\r\nAs part of his ongoing effort to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics,earlier this year, Donnelly reintroduced the bipartisanHeroin and Prescription OpioidAbuse Prevention, Education,and Enforcement Actalong with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), which focuses on several key areas: enhancing training and education for prescribers; supporting state development of prescription drug monitoring programs; ensuring adequate funding for law enforcement; expanding access to naloxone; and raising awareness of the dangers of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. Donnelly recently made recommendations in a letter to the Governors Drug Task Force, providing suggestions for short- and long-term responses to Indianas addiction problems. In addition to offering specific suggestions to the Task Force, Donnelly emphasized that any strategy to address addiction in Indiana will require the State to not only identify necessary policy changes, but also make a commitment to implementing and funding those changes moving forward.\r\nPresident Obamas announcement included actions to improve prescriber training and practices in addition to a public awareness campaign to bring attention to this crisis, principles included in Donnellys legislation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-questions-witnesses-about-computer-tech-scams-recommendations-to-protect-seniors-in-senate-special-committee-on-aging-hearing", "Donnelly Questions Witnesses about Computer Tech Scams, Recommendations to Protect Seniors in Senate Special Committee on Aging Hearing", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Questions Witnesses about Computer Tech Scams, Recommendations to Protect Seniors in Senate Special Committee on Aging Hearing\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 22, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly in a Senate Special Committee on Aging Hearing yesterday questioned testifying witnesses about computer tech scams and what can be done to prevent these scams. Computer tech support scams involve tricking individuals who own a computer into needlessly paying hundreds of dollars and giving out their private information in exchange for fraudulent tech support service. In some cases, the scammer will pretend to be associated with a well-known company or send alarming messages that pop up on a consumers screen telling the consumer that the computer has been infected with a virus and to call a provided number to resolve the issue. \r\n\r\nTo watch Donnellys questions and witness answers, click here.\r\nDonnelly commented, Another woman from Indiana got a cold-call, and it said there was a problem with your computer. She didnt have a computer, so she was able to deal with that, but for those who do, when that call comes in, what are some of the things you can do to detect that call, to deal with it, to handle it, what are some of the best recommendations that you have?\r\nDavid Finn, Executive Director of the Digital Crimes Unit of Microsoft, responded, The first thing is, you get a call from someone thats unsolicited talking to you about technical support, hang up. Thats the first thing - that is not a legitimate effort to sell anything to you The fact is there are hundreds, thousands of reputable companies who provide technical support to people. And the guidance is simply just as if you have a problem with your car, and you want to go find a mechanic, youre careful about what mechanic you go to, you want to have someone you trust who youve heard is a good mechanic, an honest one, Id say the same thing goes for finding help with your technical [support].\r\nAccording to the testimony provided by Finn, there have been 245,000 cases of advertisements appearing on the computers of Indiana residents from the top six companies identified as criminal organizations just in the last 90 days on the Microsoft search engine.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, Donnelly has continuously focused on scams and fraud targeted towards seniors. In July 2015, Donnelly helped introduce the Phone Scam Prevention Act (S. 1759) that would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to publish a public report on the current technology available to enable individuals to protect themselves against misleading or inaccurate caller ID information. The bill also would require the FCC to submit a report detailing a plan to develop reasonable caller ID authentication standards, and expand the regulations regarding caller ID information to include text messages and communications originating outside of the United States.\r\nIn August 2014, Donnelly held a field hearing in Indianapolis entitled, Trust Your Instincts? Tools to Empower Seniors to Identify Scams and Fraud, helping seniors identify and properly report scams and fraud. The hearing highlighted that many seniors fall victim to fraud from unsolicited phone calls by scammers and are apprehensive to report these crimes because seniors fear stigma and embarrassment, so there is greater need for education and awareness. For testimony from the field hearing and video highlights, click here.\r\nThe Indiana Attorney General reported a total of 48 consumer complaints on computer tech support scams, with 13 consumers falling victim. In 2014, the Federal Trade Commissions (FTC) Consumer Sentinel Network received 12,702 complaints about computer-related problems, including software, hardware, and computer equipment purchases and unwanted or unauthorized software installations and downloads. In January 2015, the FTC started tracking tech support scams separately from other computer complaints because the scams had become prevalent enough to warrant their own reporting category. Between January and August 2015, the FTC received nearly 19,000 complaints about tech support scams. The FTC believes that these crimes are substantially underreported because many people simply do not realize they have been victimized.\r\nFor more information on how seniors can protect themselves from scams and fraud, click here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-announces-bipartisan-medical-innovation-agenda", "Donnelly Announces Bipartisan ‘Medical Innovation Agenda’", "2015-10-21", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Announces Bipartisan Medical Innovation Agenda\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSeries of bills would encourage innovation, help accelerate development and review of new, life-saving drugs and devices\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 21, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly announced his Medical Innovation Agenda to help ensure that patients have timely access to important drugs and medical devices proven to be safe and effective. The series of bipartisan bills that Donnelly introduced or supported as part of his Medical Innovation Agenda would streamline multiple Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval processes to expedite the development of life-saving medicines and medical devices. The House of Representatives passed the 21st Century Cures Act earlier this year that includes some provisions similar to those in Donnellys Medical Innovation Agenda.\r\nAs part of the package, Donnelly and Senator Cory Gardener (R-CO) introduced the FDA Regulatory Efficiency Act and the Rare Device Innovation Act. Both of these bills would streamline FDA processes to accelerate review.\r\nDonnelly said, As a global leader in the device and pharmaceutical industries, Indiana is at the forefront of life-saving research. We must continue to close the gap between the development of new drugs and devices and bringing safe and effective products to the public. Our policies should ensure safety and encourage innovation in order to make life-saving technologies and medicines available to the people who need them the most.\r\nGardner said, Streamlining the medical device approval process will enhance the quality of healthcare for those living in Colorado and across America.While the Rare Device Innovation Act incentivizes the development of life-saving medical devices for those with rare diseases, the FDA Regulatory Efficiency Act allows the FDA to prioritize innovative medical devices that have the potential torevolutionizethe health care industry. It is commonsense policy, and I look forward working with Senator Donnelly and my colleagues to support patient-centered solutions that improve quality of care while bringing down costs. \r\nKathy Heuer, Executive Director of the Indiana Medical Device Manufacturers Council (IMDMC), said, Technological innovation in the medical device industry that affects the delivery of healthcare has saved lives and improved the quality of life for patients worldwide. IMDMC applauds and supports Senator Joe Donnellys Medical Innovation Agenda because this critical bipartisan legislation would help modernize the FDA review process and expand the opportunity for patients to be able to access promising breakthrough medical innovations.\r\nThe life sciences and pharmaceutical industries are vital to Indianas economy. According to a report by BioCrossroads and the Indiana Business Resource Center at the Kelley School of Business, Indiana University (IBRC), the life sciences industry has an economic impact on Indianas economy of almost $45 billion. For each job directly added in the life sciences industry in Indiana, another 2.7 jobs are created elsewhere in the states economy. According to calculations by the IBRC, the 50,000 jobs in the direct life sciences industry impact another 105,000 jobs in the broader Indiana economy.\r\nKey Legislation in Donnellys Medical Innovation Agenda\r\nThe FDA Regulatory Efficiency Act, introduced by Donnelly and co-sponsored by Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO)\r\n \r\nDonnelly introduced the bipartisan FDA Regulatory Efficiency Act with Gardner that would help the FDA concentrate on high-priority activities by authorizing third parties to approve quality systems of device companies.\r\nAuthorized-third parties could only approve changes that do not involve major technology changes or changes in the use of the product.\r\nThe legislation would still hold companies accountable for their quality systems, while also helping to alleviate the overwhelmed FDA.\r\n \r\nThe Rare Device Innovation Act, introduced by Gardner and co-sponsored by Donnelly\r\n \r\nDonnelly joined Gardner in introducing the bipartisan the Rare Device Innovation Act that would encourage the development of devices for diseases that affect only a small population in the United States. Often, companies are discouraged from developing devices for rare diseases because of the cost and time it takes to research, develop, and then push the device through the FDA review process. To make the development of devices for rare conditions easier, the FDA has a process that allows device manufacturers to avoid certain pre-market approval requirements. The legislation Donnelly is supporting would expand the size of the qualifying patient population from 4,000 to 8,000 people.\r\n \r\nS.1767, the Combination Product Regulatory Fairness Act of 2015 (introduced by Senators Johnny Isakson, R-GA, and Bob Casey, D-PA)\r\n \r\nDonnelly announced his support for the bipartisan Combination Product Regulatory Fairness Act of 2015, which would improve the review of combination products; those products that have properties of drugs, devices, or biologics, and currently do not fall under a single category for approval at the FDA.\r\nFor example, a product used to kill bacteria in different locations within the body was designated as a combination product by the FDA because it uses both a UV Light source (a device) and a photoactive dye (a drug). While only the UV light demonstrated an ability to kill bacteria when each product was used separately, the two components used together were more effective.\r\nThe legislation would allow the developer to work with the FDA to classify the product and create a clear process that includes: necessary clinical studies, timelines, and an evaluation of incremental risks from the product.\r\nAdditionally, the legislation would allow the FDA to rely on prior findings of safety and efficacy for a previously approved drug component and rely on previously-approved pre-market approvals. Currently, when approving products, the FDA does not use prior findings of safety and effectiveness of components to evaluate a combination product.\r\n \r\nS.1077, the Advancing Breakthrough Devices for Patients Act of 2015 (introduced by Senators Richard Burr, R-NC, Michael Bennet, D-CO, and Orrin Hatch, R-UT)\r\n \r\nDonnelly announced his support for the bipartisan Advancing Breakthrough Devices for Patients Act of 2015 that would streamline the process for breakthrough innovations. When the FDA recognizes that a breakthrough device does not have an approved alternative, the device offers significant advances over existing alternatives, and is in the best interest of patients, the FDA will have a priority review of the device in order to bring it to market faster.\r\n \r\nS.1597, the Patient-Focused Impact Assessment Act (introduced by Senators Roger Wicker, R-MS and Amy Klobuchar, D-MN)\r\n \r\nDonnelly announced his support for the bipartisan Patient Focused Impact Assessment Act that would establish a patient engagement assessment tool designed specifically to further incorporate the voice of the patient into the drug review process.\r\nInnovative drugs must go through an extensive review to make sure they are safe and effective prior to becoming commercially available. Due to the complex nature of the development and review process, however, many patient advocates have called for more transparency and better collaboration with patients during the FDA consideration of a new drug application.\r\nIf enacted into law, the bill would allow people living with uncommon diseases to play a more substantial role in weighing the advantages and disadvantages of potential medications, given their distinct experience in dealing with their conditions. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the FDA develop a clear, concise, and freely accessible checklist to inform the public of actions taken by drug reviewers.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/federal-and-state-anti-drug-initiatives-take-donnelly-recommendations-to-address-opioid-addiction-and-heroin-epidemics", "Federal and State Anti-Drug Initiatives Take Donnelly Recommendations to Address Opioid Addiction and Heroin Epidemics", "2015-10-21", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Federal and State Anti-Drug Initiatives Take Donnelly Recommendations to Address Opioid Addiction and Heroin Epidemics\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator welcomes announcements from Governor Pence and Obama Administration\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 21, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement after Indiana Governor Mike Pence announced new agency directives based on recommendations from his Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention. Donnelly also commented on the Obama Administrations announcement of a series of federal, state, local, and private sector efforts to address prescription drug abuse and heroin use across the country. For nearly two years, Donnelly has been working to combat opioid abuse and heroin use in Indiana and nationwide.\r\nDonnelly said, We must work together at the federal, state, and local levels to address the drug addiction epidemic gripping Indiana and our nation. I am pleased to see with todays announcements that both our federal and state officials are acting on some of the bipartisan policies for which I have been advocating. Earlier this month I made recommendations to the Governors Task Force, and I am encouraged the Governor has agreed to direct state agencies to implement some of these recommendations, including an increased focus on INSPECT and advancing prescriber engagement and education. Also, I am pleased to see the Obama Administration acting to confront these epidemics through efforts to strengthen prescribing practices and launch of a robust public awareness campaign on the risks of prescription drug abuse. While the announcements today are good steps, there is a lot more we need to do in both the short-term and long-term.\r\nAs part of his ongoing effort to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics,earlier this year, Donnelly reintroduced the bipartisanHeroin and Prescription OpioidAbuse Prevention, Education,and Enforcement Actalong with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), which focuses on several key areas: enhancing training and education for prescribers; supporting state development of prescription drug monitoring programs; ensuring adequate funding for law enforcement; expanding access to naloxone; and raising awareness of the dangers of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. Donnelly recently made recommendations in a letter to the Governor Drug Task Force, providing suggestions for short- and long-term responses to Indianas addiction problems. In addition to offering specific suggestions to the Task Force, Donnelly emphasized that any strategy to address addiction in Indiana will require the State to not only identify necessary policy changes, but also make a commitment to implementing and funding those changes moving forward.\r\nPresident Obamas announcement included actions to improve prescriber training and practices in addition to a public awareness campaign to bring attention to this crisis, principles included in Donnellys legislation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-announces-veterans-history-project-event-in-vincennes", "Donnelly Announces Veterans History Project Event in Vincennes", "2015-10-19", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Announces Veterans History Project Event in Vincennes\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 19, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced that his office will host a Veterans History Project event at Fox Ridge Manor Senior Living in Vincennes from 1:30 PM  3:30 PM EDT on Tuesday, October 27, 2015. The Veterans History Project is an effort by the Library of Congress to preserve the historic experiences of those who served in the United States military by recording their personal narratives and archiving them for use by historians, teachers, and the general public.\r\nDonnelly said, The men and women who courageously served our country have moving stories to share about their service. It is important that we record their statements so that future generations have the opportunity to learn from the experiences and appreciate the sacrifices they have made to protect our freedoms.\r\nDonnellys staff and other Hoosier volunteers will be present to interview veterans. Area veterans are encouraged to attend in order to have their stories recorded.Individuals in the community who would like to volunteer to interview the veterans are also welcome. Veterans who want to share their stories and volunteers who want to interview veterans should RSVP to Donnellys office by contacting Jessica Griffith at Jessica_Griffith@donnelly.senate.govor by calling 317-226-5555.\r\nA flyer for the event can be downloadedhere. \r\nFor more information about the services provided by Donnellys office  including assistance with a federal agency, such as the Department of Defense or Department of Veterans Affairs, inquiries about medals, and other veterans resources  please visit www.donnelly.senate.gov/help or call the Senators Indianapolis office at 317-226-5555.\r\nWHEN/WHERE:\r\nTuesday, October 27, 2015\r\n1:30 - 3:30 PM EDT\r\nFox Ridge Manor Senior Living\r\n150 Fox Ridge Drive\r\nVincennes, IN 47591\r\nTO RSVP: Contact Jessica Griffith at Jessica_Griffith@donnelly.senate.govor 317-226-5555.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-greets-lafayette-honor-flight-world-war-ii_and-korean-war-veterans-at-iwo-jima-memorial", "Donnelly Greets Lafayette Honor Flight World War II  and Korean War Veterans at Iwo Jima Memorial", "2015-10-19", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Greets Lafayette Honor Flight World War II  and Korean War Veterans at Iwo Jima Memorial\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 19, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly greeted and thanked Indiana veterans for their service today at the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington, VA. Hoosier World War II veterans and Korean War veterans from Lafayette, Indiana, made the trip to Washington as part of the Honor Flight Network.\r\n\r\nJoe greets Hoosier veterans from Lafayette at the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington, VA.\r\nFor more high-resolution photos, click here.\r\nThe Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created to honor Americas military heroes by sponsoring veterans trips to Washington, D.C., where they can visit and reflect at their memorials.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/important-medicare-update", "Important Medicare Update", "2015-10-15", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WEBSITE | CONTACT ME\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tForward to a Friend\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUpcoming Events:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOffice Hours in Your Neighborhood\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhere: \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Indianapolis Public Library College Avenue Branch\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t4180 N. College Ave.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIndianapolis, IN 46201When:\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWed. October 21, 2015\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOctober 15, 2015\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDear Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFor the last fifty years,Medicarehas provided millions of Hoosiers with quality and dependable health care in retirement.That is why I am pleased to tell you that theMedicareopenenrollmentperiod has begun for 2016.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIf you are satisfied with theMedicarecoverage you have,you dont need to do anything at all. If you are currently aMedicarebeneficiary, you remain eligible and will continue to receiveMedicarebenefits. However, if you are interested in making changes to yourMedicareplan, or need to sign up for 2016 coverage, you should do so before theenrollmentperiod closes on December 7, 2015.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBelow are some helpful resources courtesy ofMedicare.govthat will guide anyone interested in participating.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMedicarePlan Finder-- Here you can review, compare, and join a 2016 plan using your zip code or through a more personalized search.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEnrollin aMedicarePlan-- Visit this page if you already know the name of the plan you want to join.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCheck YourEnrollment-- Use this tool to check your current and futureenrollment.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRemember, this is the only time you can change your plan this year, so take this opportunity to find something that works for you or your eligible family member. Please dont hesitate to contact me on this or any other federal issue of importance to you.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYour Friend,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAndr", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/save-the-south-shore-burns-harbor-asks-congress-to-extend-train-deadline", "Save the South Shore: Burns Harbor asks Congress to extend train deadline", "2015-10-15", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/save-the-south-shore-burns-harbor-asks-congress-to-extend-train-deadline\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 1:06:22 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Save the South Shore: Burns Harbor asks Congress to extend train deadline", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-cops-awards-for-dyer-and-griffith-police-departments", "Visclosky Announces COPS Awards for Dyer and Griffith Police Departments", "2015-10-14", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congressman Pete Visclosky announced today that the Dyer Police Department and the Griffith Police Department will each receive $125,000 from the Department of Justice Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. The COPS Hiring Program grants provide up to 75 percent of the entry-level salary and benefits for a full-time officer for a 36-month period.\nDyer Chief of Police David W. Hein indicated that this grant would allow Dyer to dedicate a full-time officer to a new community policing division. Chief Hein stated, We are very excited about this new opportunity. This award will allow us to have a full-time community presence assigned to be available for school, seniors, and individuals with special needs.\nGriffith Police Department Chief Greg Mance stated that this grant would allow the Department to expand their social services. Chief Mance said, This new officer will support our schools and the re-instated D.A.R.E. Program, as well as partner with non-profit organizations to meet identified community needs.\nCongressman Pete Visclosky stated, I congratulate the Dyer and Griffith Police Departments for their commitment to investing in our communities and making our region a safe and inviting place to raise a family and start a business. I appreciate their diligence to seek out and successfully obtain this federal funding.\nFor additional information on the COPS Hiring Program click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/worlds-steelmakers-take-virtual-trip-at-purdue-cal", "World's steelmakers take virtual trip at Purdue Cal", "2015-10-14", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/worlds-steelmakers-take-virtual-trip-at-purdue-cal\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 1:00:09 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                World's steelmakers take virtual trip at Purdue Cal", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-army-land-transfer-to-river-ridge-will-continue-economic-growth-and-create-jobs", "Donnelly: Army Land Transfer to River Ridge Will Continue Economic Growth and Create Jobs", "2015-10-12", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Army Land Transfer to River Ridge Will Continue Economic Growth and Create Jobs\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator helped facilitate resolution involving several high-value areas slated for redevelopment and a closed Army landfill, paving the way for new business and jobs in southeast Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 12, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tJeffersonville, Ind. Today, U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly welcomed the Army officially transferring major land parcels to River Ridge, ending a long-standing land dispute. At a press conference at River Ridge, Donnelly joined River Ridge Board President Mark Robinson, River Ridge Development Authority Executive Director Jerry Acy, Colonel Christopher Beck, Commander of the US Army Corps of Engineers Louisville District, Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore, and Peggy Dorsey with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. The Army presented River Ridge with the deed to several land parcels, including a landfill, allowing River Ridge to move forward with significant new redevelopment projects on high-value areas that are expected to bring new business and jobs to southeast Indiana, while also protecting the health and safety of Hoosiers in the local community.\r\nDonnelly has been a key leader during the preceding months of intense negotiations, bringing together the River Ridge Board, the Army, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Louisville,IDEM, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and community stakeholders and leaders to revive stalled discussions and address community concerns.\r\nDonnelly said,This is a great day for the River Ridge Commerce Center and our local communities. River Ridge has grown into a significant economic driver for southeast Indiana, bringing new businesses and jobs into our communities. This land transfer will help bring more jobs and opportunity to Clark County, spurring continued economic growth in a way that protects the health and safety of Hoosiers.\r\nIm the hired help and was pleased I could help facilitate negotiations and play a role in making sure River Ridge could attract new business and proceed with projects that will fuel economic growth. Over the past year, I have been grateful to work with extraordinary partners, including River Ridge, Army headquarters, the Army Corps, and IDEM, who all worked tirelessly to ensure a positive outcome.\r\nJerry Acy, River Ridge Development Authority, Executive Director, said, Today marks a major milestone in the transfer of Army property to the River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA) for the purpose of replacing the loss of economic activity as a result of the shutdown of the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant. We are grateful for all the efforts by Senator Joe Donnelly and Congressman Todd Young in Washington D. C. This transfer may not have occurred at this time without their diligence supported by the hard work of their respective staffs.\r\nWith this transfer of approximately 830 acres, there are only 285 acres remaining. The 285 will complete the transfer of the total 6,000 acres in 2016. The RRDA has already achieved significant success in locating major companies to our Commerce Center resulting in over 7,000 new jobs and generating over $1.3 billion in total economic impact for the State of Indiana. The current 830 acres will greatly enhance our marketing efforts since almost 80% of those acres are located between State Road 62 and the new Interstate 265 interchange scheduled to open by October 2016. We expect to continue attracting new corporate investments and many thousand more new jobs to southeastern Indiana in the years to come.\r\nPeggy Dorsey, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Environmental Managements Office of Land Quality, said, Like all of the partners involved in this project, IDEM cares about the revitalization and redevelopment of properties for beneficial economic development. We are glad to be part of the efforts to address environmental concerns and help keep the path clear for the continued development of River Ridge Commerce Center.  \r\nDonnelly and his staff have worked closely with the River Ridge Development Authority for more than a year. After stalled negotiations and repeated attempts to resolve community concerns about the landfill through federal legislation, Donnelly began working with the River Ridge Development Authority on a new round of talks with the Army in September 2014. River Ridge had an opportunity for the first time to share their concerns with the defense oversight committees in Congress, and in the following months, Donnelly continued to facilitate meetings to narrow down issues and address each sides concerns.\r\nIn April 2015,Donnelly convened a meetingat the River Ridge Commerce Center with federal, state, and local stakeholders to discuss the status and future of the River Ridge Commerce Center. Since then, Donnelly facilitated talks among River Ridge, the Army, EPA, and IDEM to address concerns about potential public health and environmental risks associated with the landfill.\r\nAs part of his ongoing efforts, Donnelly participated in the River Ridge Board meeting on September 21, 2015, by conference call to go over outstanding issues as the board neared agreement on approving the land transfer, after assurances from the Army that it would stand by a commitment to protect the local community from any risk posed by their landfill, now and for decades to come. Less than 10 days later, the River Ridge Development Authority board passed a resolution approving the land transfer. Donnelly worked with the Office of the Secretary, the Army BRAC Division, and the Army Corps of Engineers to expedite final processing of the deed. Read more about Donnellys efforts,here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-statement-on-nationwide-stoppage-of-wotus-implementation-", "Donnelly Statement on Nationwide Stoppage of WOTUS Implementation", "2015-10-09", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Statement on Nationwide Stoppage of WOTUS Implementation \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator has been working to address the WOTUS rule with bipartisan legislation\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 9, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement today after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit blocked implementation of the Environmental Protecting Agencys (EPA) Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule nationwide.\r\nDonnelly who serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee said, Todays federal court ruling is in line with the concerns I have raised all along: when you write a rule without significant input from those impacted, including farmers, small business owners, and local governments, legal challenges are inevitable. No one wants cleaner water or better land conditions than the people who live and work on the land, alongside these waters every day. Instead of further lengthy and costly court battles, the EPA should accept todays decision and decide to work with local stakeholders to find a common sense solution so that we can provide our ag producers, conservationists, and county and local governments with the regulatory certainty they need to continue efforts to improve water quality. I call on the EPA to work with me and my colleagues, Republican and Democratic, to advance the bipartisan legislation, like that I helped introduce, to provide a permanent and timely solution.\r\nIn August, the U.S. District Court of North Dakota blocked the WOTUS rule from going into effect in 13 states that had challenged the legality of the rule. Todays federal court ruling applies to the entire country. Earlier this year Donnelly, along with U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), led a bipartisan group of senators, in introducing the Federal Water Quality Protection Act, legislation to address the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers attempt to define WOTUS. Donnelly has continuously expressed concern and frustration on behalf of the Hoosier ag community regarding the confusing, burdensome regulations related to WOTUS.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-welcomes-cops-hiring-program-grant-for-clarksville-police-department", "Donnelly Welcomes COPS Hiring Program Grant for Clarksville Police Department", "2015-10-09", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Welcomes COPS Hiring Program Grant for Clarksville Police Department\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator wrote letter supporting Departments request for funding\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 9, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly today released the following statement after the announcement that the Clarksville Police Department (CPD) received federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Justices Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. The award will allow CPD to hire two new police officers. Donnelly sent a letter supporting the CPDs grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice earlier this year.\r\nDonnelly said, Public safety is a top priority in Clarksville. While long-term strategies to prevent crime will require everyone from law enforcement to public officials, educators and employers to work together, ensuring law enforcement has the resources needed to keep our communities safe is a critical step.\r\nMark Palmer, Chief of Police for Clarksville Police Department, said, I would like thank Senator Donnelly for his continuous support towards law enforcement. This grant was an important funding for additional police officers, the letter and support Senator Donnelly gave us during our application is greatly appreciated.\r\nDylan Fisher, Associate Planner & Grant Writer at Clarksville Planning & Zoning Department, said, The Town of Clarksville Police Department will add two additional full-time officers after being awarded $250,000 through the 2015 COPS Hiring Grant Program. The new officers will be used to address disproportionate policing levels between Clarksville's commercial and residential districts. The Town of Clarksville is highly appreciative of Senator Joe Donnelly's efforts in securing this grant for our community. Clarksville Officials' believe the future work of the new officers will strengthen the relationship between the local residents and Police Department.\r\nThe COPS Hiring Program is designed to advance public safety through community policing by addressing the full-time sworn officer needs of state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies nationwide. The program provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new or rehire career law enforcement officers and to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts.\r\nFor more information on how Senator Donnellys office can assist cities, municipalities, and groups applying for federal grants, please visit https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/help/grants.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-faa-grant-award-for-the-porter-county-regional", "Visclosky Announces FAA Grant Award for the Porter County Regional Airport", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congressman Pete Visclosky announced today that the Porter County Regional Airport will receive a $1,437,732 grant award from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).\nAirport Director Kyle Kuebler stated, This funding represents the third round of programming, which enables the Porter County Regional Airport to continue the reconstruction of its most critical infrastructure asset, its primary east-west runway, allowing the Airport to safely and effectively continue to provide its air transportation accessibility and convenience to our community and region.\nThis FAA funding is in addition to support from the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA). Bill Hanna, RDA President and CEO, has stated, Just like the airport in Gary, the Porter County Airport is a significant driver of regional economic activity. A 2012 estimate put its economic impact at more than $17 million annually.\nCongressman Visclosky stated, I applaud the diligent and persistent efforts of Kyle Kuebler and the staff at the Porter County Regional Airport to identify and obtain federal funding opportunities. Investing in transportation infrastructure like the Porter County Airport is essential to growing the Northwest Indiana economy and drawing new families and businesses to our region.\nFor additional information on the FAA and their grant awards click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/vivisclosky-announces-faa-grant-award-for-the-porter-county-regional", "Visclosky Announces FAA Grant Award for the Porter County Regional Airport", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/vivisclosky-announces-faa-grant-award-for-the-porter-county-regional\nAs it appears live December 14, 2017 1:00:20 AM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Visclosky Announces FAA Grant Award for the Porter County Regional Airport", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-carson-speak-on-floor-recognizing-60th-anniversary-of-historic-crispus-attucks-basketball-championship-team", "Donnelly, Carson Speak on Floor Recognizing 60th Anniversary of Historic Crispus Attucks Basketball Championship Team", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly, Carson Speak on Floor Recognizing 60th Anniversary of Historic Crispus Attucks Basketball Championship Team\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tMembers honor first all-black high school athletic team to win a state championship not only in Indiana but in the United States\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 8, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington D.C. - U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly and U.S. Representative Andr Carson (IN-07) today spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, respectively, to recognize the 1955 Crispus Attucks High School Basketball Team, which 60 years ago became the first all-black high school athletic team to win a state championship not only in Indiana but in the United States. \r\nDonnelly said during his speech, As Indianas Senator, on behalf of Hoosiers, I want to recognize the Crispus Attucks team not only for their amazing accomplishment on the court, but for the powerful message they always sent through the State of Indiana and for the pride that is still present in Indianapolis today for them, and for all their accomplishments, and for all they mean to us. The members of the 1955 state champion Crispus Attucks basketball team, their coaches, the teachers who taught them, the community that supported them, and the families that loved them...they were an inspiration in 1955 to all of us, and they are an inspiration today.\r\nCarson said during his speech, Their win was a major step for African American athletes across the country, breaking the barriers of segregation and setting the stage for the diversity we see today. \r\n\r\nTo watch Donnellys full remarks click here.\r\nTo watch Carsons full remarks click here.\r\nCrispus Attucks High School was founded in 1927 as a segregated high school for black students. The Indiana High School Athletic Association initially refused to grant Crispus Attucks membership, and the school could not play in the state basketball tournament until 1942. On March 19, 1955, at the Butler Fieldhouse, the Flying Tigers of Crispus Attucks High School beat Gary Roosevelt High School, 97-74 victory to win the state championship.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-greets-north-central-and-northeast-indiana-honor-flight-of-korean-war-veterans-and-wwii-veterans-in-dc", "Donnelly Greets North Central and Northeast Indiana Honor Flight of Korean War Veterans and WWII Veterans in D.C.", "2015-10-07", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Greets North Central and Northeast Indiana Honor Flight of Korean War Veterans and WWII Veterans in D.C.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 7, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly greeted and thanked north central and northeast Indiana veterans for their service near the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C. Hoosier Korean War and World War II veterans from Elkhart, Fort Wayne, and South Bend, Indiana, made the trip to Washington as part of the Honor Flight Network.\r\n\r\nJoe greets Hoosier veterans from Elkhart, Fort Wayne, and South Bend, near the Korean War Memorial in Washington D.C.\r\nFor more high-resolution photos, click here.\r\nThe Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created to honor Americas military heroes by sponsoring veterans trips to Washington, D.C., where they can visit and reflect at their memorials.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-suicide-rate-among-our-military-servicemembers-and-veterans-is-not-just-a-tragedy_it-is-a-crisis", "Donnelly: ‘Suicide Rate Among our Military Servicemembers and Veterans is Not Just a Tragedy – It is a Crisis’", "2015-10-07", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Suicide Rate Among our Military Servicemembers and Veterans is Not Just a Tragedy  It is a Crisis\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator gives testimony at Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing on his efforts to improve mental health options for troops and veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 7, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly testified before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC) yesterday emphasizing the importance of training private, community mental health providers to better treat servicemembers and veterans. Veterans organizations that support Donnellys provisions also gave testimony at the SVAC hearing.\r\nDonnelly said during his testimony, The suicide rate among our military servicemembers and veterans is not just a tragedy  it is a crisisIve worked over the past three years to advance commonsense, bipartisan legislation to meet that challenge. We took an important step forward last year with the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was part of the National Defense Authorization last year. This year, Im working with several Republican colleagues to advance the Servicemember and Veterans Mental Health Care Package  three bills aimed at improving the accessibility and quality of mental health care for vets, servicemembers, and their familiesWe know more and more veterans each year are going to be seeking care from non-VA providers. We need to be sure as many of those providers as possible are trained to provide high quality care. And we need to give vets tools to help them make decisions on where to seek care, whether or not they are using their VA benefits.\r\n\r\nWatch Donnellys full testimony here.\r\nLou Celli, Director of the Veterans Affairs And Rehabilitation Division of The American Legion, said, The American Legion believes by establishing a registry of Non-VA Mental Health Care providers who have been designated by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or Department of Defense (DOD) to understand VA/DoD culture is beneficial to the veteran and their family. This bill would ensure there are designated non-VA/DoD mental health providers that are readily available to treat veterans and help to reduce mental health access wait times within the VA Healthcare system.\r\nLauren Augustine, Legislative Associate for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, said, Combating suicide among troops and veterans remains a top priority for IAVA and its members. There is no question that the VA should remain the leading experts on veteran-specific care and services. However, many veterans do choose to seek outside of the VA system. In light of that, IAVA supports the measures outlined in S. 717 to identify non-VA mental health care providers that have military-specific competencies.\r\nFostering a greater awareness of military culture and best practices of care among non-VA providers will increase access to care and strengthen the overall community of care available to veterans, which are two key components in decreasing veteran suicide. Additionally, providing a mechanism for private providers to identify themselves as having military competencies will encourage more providers to gain that knowledge and provide evidence-based treatment to veterans in their communities. There are already several mechanisms in place to aid in a quick and efficient implementation of this program while not increasing the workload of the VA. IAVA encourages the Members of this Committee to recognize the potential benefit of this program and work together to help connect veterans to a valuable network of providers.\r\nDonnelly is working to pass bipartisan legislation that would improve mental health care for servicemembers, veterans, and their families. Taking into account how stigma, provider shortages, and budget constraints are impacting when and how veterans and servicemembers seek care, Donnelly is working to improve access to quality mental health care through the expanded use of specially-trained community providers. Donnellys Community Provider Readiness Recognition Act (S. 717)is part of his Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package and would create a special designation for private sector, community mental health providers who demonstrate  either through training or past experience  a strong knowledge of military culture and evidence-based therapies for mental health issues common to veterans and servicemembers. It would create a regularly-updated online registry, so veterans and servicemembers can search for these specially-designated community providers in their area.\r\nIn March, Donnelly introduced theServicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package (Care Package), three bipartisan bills to help expand access to quality mental health care for servicemembers and veterans through both Department of Defense (DoD) and VA facilities, as well as local community providers. Military mental healthprovisions from the Care Package passed the Senate in Juneas part of the national defense bill and would help ensure that there are a sufficient number of the best trained mental health providers for servicemembers and veterans.\r\nThe Care Package would build on the progress made by DonnellysJacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law late last year and for the first time requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembersActive, Guard, and Reserve.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnellys-care-package-passes-congress-goes-to-presidents-desk-as-part-of-national-defense-bill", "Donnelly’s ‘Care Package’ Passes Congress, Goes to President’s Desk as Part of National Defense Bill", "2015-10-07", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnellys Care Package Passes Congress, Goes to Presidents Desk as Part of National Defense Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators latest effort to combat military suicide would expand access to quality mental health care servicemembers\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 7, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly helped the Senate pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) today with strong bipartisan support. The national defense bill has passed the Senate and House and now goes to President Obama. It includes provisions from Donnellys bipartisan Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package, which would improve mental health care for servicemembers and their families. NDAA sets national defense policy and funding levels for Pentagon programs.\r\nDonnelly said, The suicide rate among our servicemembers and veterans is a crisis that we must address. We urgently need to improve mental health care for the men and women who have served our country, and to deliver that care in a way that meets their needs. That was my goal in authoring the bipartisan Care Package  to find meaningful ways to improve the quality of care, whether its being delivered at DOD, VA or by community providers. I am honored and grateful that these provisions passed in Congress as part of the national defense bill.\r\nAt a time when our nation faces significant challenges with the rise of ISIS, Assads brutality in Syria, Russian aggression in Eastern Europe, and difficulties in Iraq and Afghanistan, its critical that we set a clear defense policy. We must protect our security and provide for our servicemembers and their families, and I urge the President to re-consider his veto threat and sign the defense bill into law.\r\nLast year 443 servicemembers took their own lives and according to the latest Department of Defense (DoD) reportover 200 servicemembers were lost to suicide in the first six months of 2015.\r\nIn 2014, for the third straight year, more servicemembers were lost to suicide than in combat. Donnelly his worked the past three years to advance commonsense, bipartisan legislation through his role on the Senate Armed Services Committee. In March, Donnelly introduced theServicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package (Care Package), three bipartisan bills to help expand access to quality mental health care for servicemembers and veterans through both Department of Defense (DoD) and VA facilities, as well as local community providers. Military mental healthprovisions from the Care Package passed the Senate in Juneas part of the national defense bill and would help ensure that there are a sufficient number of the best trained mental health providers for servicemembers and veterans. The Senate and House of Representatives reached an agreement on a final compromise bill, and now that both the Senate and House approved the National Defense Authorization Act conference agreement, it must be signed into law by President Obama.\r\nAs part of the Care Package, Donnelly took into account how stigma, provider shortages, and budget constraints are impacting when and how veterans and servicemembers seek care. Donnelly is working to improve access to quality mental health care through the expanded use of specially-trained community providers. Donnellys Community Provider Readiness Recognition Act (co-sponsored by Senator Joni Ernst, R-IA) is inspired by the Star Behavioral Health Provider Network, a program led by Purdues Military Family Research Institute. Donnellys provision would create a special designation for private sector, community mental health providers who demonstrate  either through training or past experience  a strong knowledge of military culture and evidence-based therapies for mental health issues common to veterans and servicemembers. It would create a regularly-updated online registry, so veterans and servicemembers can search for these specially-designated community providers in their area.\r\nDonnellys Military and Veterans Mental Health Provider Assessment Act (co-sponsored by Senator Roger Wicker, R-MS) would require that all DoD primary care and mental health care providers have received evidence-based training on suicide risk recognition and management and that their training be updated to keep pace with changes in mental health care best practices. To learn more about the Care Package click here.\r\nElements of Donnellys Frontline Mental Health Provider Training Act co-sponsored by Senator John Boozman, R-AR) were included in the Senate committee report, urging DoD to train physician assistants to specialize in psychiatric care in order to help meet the increasing demands for mental health services among servicemembers and their families. Donnellys Care Package would build on the progress made by theJacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law late last year. The Sexton Act  named for Hoosier Jacob Sexton, a National Guardsman who took his life in 2009  for the first time requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembersActive, Guard, and Reserve.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-testimony-at-itc-hearing-on-welded-line-pipe", "Visclosky Testimony at ITC Hearing on Welded Line Pipe", "2015-10-06", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Below is the testimony of Congressman Pete Visclosky from todays International Trade Commission (ITC) hearing on welded line pipe, as prepared for delivery.\nI would like to thank Chairman Broadbent, Vice Chairman Pinkert, members of the Commission, and all of your staff, for your continued work to protect American steelworkers from unfair trade practices. I am always grateful to testify before this Commission, and I appreciate your indulgence as I provided testimony just last week in the case involving cut-to-length carbon plate from China, Russia, and Ukraine. \nFor todays proceedings, I urge the Commission to make an affirmative injury determination on the illegal import of welded line pipe from Korea and Turkey. I am deeply concerned about the unrelenting efforts of foreign producers to violate our trade laws and breach international trading standards to the detriment and harm of the American steel industry and other manufacturing industries. During a recent meeting with a domestic steel producer, I was provided a copy of an email that they acquired from a company that exports Chinese goods. The email offered to provide information on how to avoid the high antidumping duties levied on products from China by circumventing country of origin labeling requirements. This evidently is a common practice, and is absolutely unacceptable. I recognize that this is an issue addressed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, but I believe this email illustrates how some have a blatant disregard for U.S. trade laws. We cannot stand by and let these producers flood our free market with illegal imports.\nSpecific to todays case, I would point out that the welded line pipe sector is critical to the overall success of the American steel industry. None of the petitioning companies in this case are located in my district, but flat-rolled steel, which is used in the production of welded line pipe, is a major product manufactured in my district. This shows the interconnectedness and breadth of communities and workers that will be harmed if we continue to allow illegal imports of the product under review today. In 2015, Korea had the highest level of imports of welded line pipe, at 58.9 percent, and Turkey had the fourth highest level, at 6 percent. Between 2012 and the second quarter of 2015, 690 individuals in the welded line pipe sector have lost their jobs, and many more have experienced reduced work hours. We must act now to ensure that our domestic producers do not sustain further irreparable damage. \nIn summation, I would again urge the Commission to make an affirmative injury determination in this case involving welded line pipe from Korea and Turkey. American steelworkers produce the highest quality steel in the world. An affirmative determination in this case would protect these steelworkers from further harm and send a clear message that America does not tolerate illegal trade.\nI again thank you for your thoughtful and diligent deliberations on this case, and again appreciate the opportunity to provide testimony.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lake-station-teen-tackles-epilepsy-by-raising-awareness", "Lake Station teen tackles epilepsy by raising awareness", "2015-10-05", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lake-station-teen-tackles-epilepsy-by-raising-awareness\nAs it appears live December 13, 2017 11:57:57 PM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Lake Station teen tackles epilepsy by raising awareness", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-must-ensure-safety-of-freight-and-passenger-rail-operations-without-creating-lapse-in-service", "Donnelly: Must Ensure Safety of Freight and Passenger Rail Operations Without Creating Lapse in Service", "2015-10-05", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Must Ensure Safety of Freight and Passenger Rail Operations Without Creating Lapse in Service\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator recently joined bipartisan group of colleagues urging Senate to extend deadline for rail operators to implement positive train control\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 5, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly joined a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Senate leadership, urging Congress to extend the Dec. 31, 2015 deadline for rail operators to implement positive train control (PTC). \r\nDonnelly said, I am aware of the concerns raised by the South Shore Line and other railroad operators. I am continuing to work with my colleagues, Republican and Democratic, to find an appropriate resolution that ensures the safety of freight and passenger rail operations without creating any lapse in service.\r\nDonnelly and the bipartisan group of Senators wrote, in part, in a September 30 letter:\r\nWe cannot afford a disruption of rail service, which could occur if Congress does not extend this deadline. Myriad businesses rely on dependable service and would be unnecessarily hurt by a slowdown in service, whether it is a farmer looking to this years harvest, a sawmill moving logs or an energy company delivering fuel. Additionally, millions of passengers that depend on reliable service to commute locally as well as nationally will face preventable challengesIt is important that we extend this deadline in a responsible way that ensures smooth implementation of this new technology with measurable benchmarks. It is also imperative that Congress take up this issue immediately as railroads will begin to alter their service standards weeks before the actual deadline.\r\nIn 2008, Congress required the implementation of PTC on railroads that carry passengers or have high-volume freight traffic with toxic- or poisonous-by-inhalation hazardous materials. PTC is a communications and signaling system that has been identified by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as a technology capable of preventing incidents caused by train operator or dispatcher error.\r\nPTC is expected to reduce the number of incidents due to excessive speed, conflicting train movements, and engineer failure to obey wayside signals. PTC is required on about 60,000 miles of railroad track by December 31, 2015. Many railroad companies are uncertain of their ability to fully implement PTC by this deadline.\r\nText of the letter follows. A signed PDF is available here.\r\n\r\nSeptember 30, 2015 \r\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnell\r\nMajority Leader\r\nS-230, US Capitol\r\nWashington, D.C. 20510\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Harry Reid\r\nMinority Leader\r\nS-221, US Capitol\r\nWashington, D.C. 20510\r\n\r\nDear Leader McConnell and Leader Reid:\r\n We write to address the approaching statutory deadline for the full implementation of positive train control (PTC) safety technology. As reported in a recent GAO study, it is increasingly clear that our nation's freight and passenger railroads are unable to meet the December 31, 2015 implementation deadline. We believe it is important to ensure that the railroads complete implementation of PTC in an expeditious manner without any unnecessary disruptions to our national rail network. With this in mind, Congress must act now to extend the looming deadline to provide certainty to businesses and individuals that rely on the railroads while providing a clear timeline for meeting the PTC requirements set forth in the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (RSIA).\r\n When implemented, PTC will be a critical safety component of our national rail network. Full implementation is critical to the safety of the men and women who operate our nation's trains, the millions of passengers that move around the country and the thousands of manufacturers, farmers and ranchers that depend on rails to move world-class products to market. That is why it remains essential for Congress to hold railroads accountable to efficiently complete the PTC requirements set forth in RSIA. We must also do so in a way that acknowledges current constraints as the Senate did when it passed the bipartisan DRIVE Act.\r\n Railroads play a vital role in our nation's economy. We cannot afford a disruption of rail service, which could occur if Congress does not extend this deadline. Myriad businesses rely on dependable service and would be unnecessarily hurt by a slowdown in service, whether it is a farmer looking to sell this year's harvest, a sawmill moving logs or an energy company delivering fuel. Additionally, millions of passengers that depend on reliable service to commute locally as well as nationally will face preventable challenges.\r\n\r\n It is important that we extend this deadline in a responsible way that ensures smooth implementation of this new technology with measurable benchmarks. It is also imperative that Congress take up this issue immediately, as railroads will begin to alter their service standards weeks before the actual deadline. We appreciate your attention to this time-sensitive manner, and stand ready to work with you.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\nU.S. Senator Joe Donnelly (and see signed letter for full list of signers.)\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/sheriff-tells-council-of-need-to-combat-heroin-abuse", "Sheriff tells council of need to combat heroin abuse", "2015-10-04", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/sheriff-tells-council-of-need-to-combat-heroin-abuse\nAs it appears live December 13, 2017 11:58:10 PM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                Sheriff tells council of need to combat heroin abuse", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-statement-on-governors-initial-recommendations-from-task-force-on-drug-enforcement-treatment-and-prevention", "Donnelly Statement on Governor’s Initial Recommendations from Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention", "2015-10-02", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Statement on Governors Initial Recommendations from Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator outlined recommendations to Task Force to help address drug abuse and addiction in Indiana\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 2, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tGranger, Ind.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released a statement following Governor Mike Pences announcement today on initial recommendations from the Governors Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention. Yesterday, Donnelly outlined recommendations to help address drug abuse and addiction in Indiana in a letter sent to the co-chairs of Governor Pences Task Force.\r\nDonnelly said, Like many Hoosiers, I am deeply concerned by our states struggle with drug abuse and addiction, particularly the ongoing opioid abuse epidemic, and its impact on individual Hoosiers, their families, and our communities. It is important for the Governor to look into a possible Medicaid waiver, and its something I recommended in my letter to his Task Force. As Ive said, with a public health crisis we need not only policy changes, but also a commitment to provide the support and resources required to adequately address the problemand I look forward to seeing full recommendations from the Governors Task Force.\r\nOn Thursday, Donnelly outlined recommendations to help address drug abuse and addiction in Indiana in a letter sent to the co-chairs of the Governors Task Force. Donnelly provided suggestions to Governor Pences Task Force as part of a short- and long-term response to Indianas addiction problems. In addition to offering specific suggestions to the Task Force, he emphasized that any strategy to address addiction in Indiana will require the State to not only identify necessary policy changes, but also make a commitment to implementing and funding those changes moving forward.\r\nAs part of his ongoing effort to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics, earlier this year, Donnelly reintroduced the bipartisan Heroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Act along with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), which focuses on several key areas: enhancing training and education for prescribers; supporting state development of prescription drug monitoring programs; ensuring adequate funding for law enforcement; expanding access to naloxone; and raising awareness of the dangers of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. In June 2014, Donnelly first introduced bipartisan legislation seeking to address opioid addiction.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-veterans-health-care-center-critical-to-fulfilling-our-promise-to-north-central-indiana-veterans", "Donnelly: Veterans Health Care Center Critical to Fulfilling Our Promise to North Central Indiana Veterans", "2015-10-02", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: Veterans Health Care Center Critical to Fulfilling Our Promise to North Central Indiana Veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tDonnelly obtained congressional authorization and funding for center during time in House of Representatives\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 2, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tMishawaka, Ind.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly today participated in the official groundbreaking of the St. Joseph County Health Care Center. Expanding access to health care to north central Indiana veterans has been a top priority for Donnelly since his service in the U.S. House of Representatives.\r\nDonnelly said, Todays groundbreaking of the St. Joseph County Health Care Center is a great day for north central Indiana veterans.In recognition of their service and sacrifice, our nation promises to care for our veterans and their families long after their last day in uniform. Ensuring ready access to health care when and where they need it is the least we can do for those who have done so much for our country. The St. Joseph County Health Care Center is critical to fulfilling our promise to the men and women who have served us  and that is why helping make it a reality has been a top priority. Many of our local veterans will be a short ride away from necessary health services, including primary care and mental health providers.\r\n\"I am proud this new health care center will call St. Joseph County home, and I will continue working nonstop with our federal, state, and local partners to make sure Hoosier veterans receive the care they deserve.\"\r\n\r\nFrom left to right: Donnelly participates in official groundbreaking of the St. Joseph County Health Care Center; Donnelly speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony; Donnelly with veterans from American Legion Post 308.\r\nFor more high resolution photos click here.\r\nEnsuring veterans have access to health care has been a top priority for Donnelly throughout his time in Congress. In 2007, then-Congressman Donnelly sent a letter to the Northern Indiana VA requesting utilization statistics to better understand how often, how far, and for what services South Bend-area veterans must travel. In 2008, Donnelly hosted a veterans roundtable to discuss expanding veterans services in St. Joseph County. A year later, Donnelly and then-VA Secretary Eric Shinseki announced the St. Joseph County Health Care Centers approval. In the years that followed, Donnelly worked with his colleagues on both sides of the aisle to secure congressional authorization and funding and worked closely with the VA to open an interim health care center in South Bend in 2012.\r\nThe St. Joseph County Health Care Center is projected to be even larger and serve more veterans. The Center is expected to serve veterans in several northwest Indiana counties (St. Joseph, Elkhart, Lake, Porter and La Porte) and have services including primary health care and expanded mental health care among other services.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-welcomes-federal-grant-to-help-the-community-address-crime-in-northwest-area-of-indianapolis-", "Donnelly Welcomes Federal Grant to Help the Community Address Crime in Northwest Area of Indianapolis", "2015-10-02", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Welcomes Federal Grant to Help the Community Address Crime in Northwest Area of Indianapolis \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator wrote letter of support to secure Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation Program grant from U.S. Department of Justice\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 2, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIndianapolis, Ind. U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly welcomed the announcement that the City of Indianapolis received a 2015 Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation (BCJI) Program grant of $155,522. The federal grant will help address crime in the Northwest Area of Indianapolis. Donnelly has supported continued funding for the BCJI Grant Program and included funding for this program among his appropriations priorities in 2014 and 2015.\r\nDonnelly said, I am pleased the City of Indianapolis received a Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation Program federal grant award because I am deeply concerned about the violent crime and drug use in communities throughout Indiana, especially in our larger cities like Indianapolis. Any effort to address the complex issues that contribute to crime will take collaboration among many different partners. This is a great opportunity for the Northwest Area of Indianapolis. I stand ready to continue to work with the city to help address crime in our communities, and I will continue to seize opportunities to garner support at the federal level for crime prevention and reduction efforts.\r\nTedd Grain, Deputy Director of Local Initiatives Support Corporation, said, The Byrne Criminal Justice Grant will address the public safety challenges identified in the Northwest Area Quality of Life Plan, increasing strategic coordination among residents, public safety officials, and other key stakeholders, in order to make this neighborhood an even safer place to live, work and play. Senator Donnellys support for this grant has been invaluable.\r\nDonnelly has supported the Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation Program, which is a DOJ pilot program that brings together cross-sector community coalitions to identify and implement evidence-based practices to address the drivers of crime at the local level. In May 2014, Donnelly hosted a series of meetings in central Indiana to discuss violent crime and related issues. During these meetings, he heard from a diverse group of Hoosiers, including residents, community leaders, law enforcement, and government officials about the impact that crime has on their communities. Based on those conversations, it is clear that educators, community leaders, local employers, law enforcement, and elected officials must work together in order to best address the different issues that contribute to crime. Donnelly is ready to partner with these key stakeholders in a collaborative effort to make our communities safer and to help communities address the issues directly correlated to crime in their areas.\r\nIndiana currently has one other BCJI site located in the Jacobsville neighborhood in Evansville. The Evansville BCJI initiative is led by ECHO Housing Corporation in partnership with the Evansville Police, Diehl Evaluations and Consulting, the Department of Metropolitan Development, the Jacobsville Area Community Corporation, Jacobsville Neighborhood Improvement Association, and the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation, among other partners. The Jacobsville BCJI site was awarded funding in 2013.\r\nFor information on how Senator Donnellys office can assist cities, municipalities, and other groups applying for a federal grant, please visitwww.donnelly.senate.gov/help/grants.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/save/https:/visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/region-intermodal-network-to-benefit-from-3m-buffington-harbor-drive-grant", "Region intermodal network to benefit from $3M Buffington Harbor Drive grant", "2015-10-01", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Saving page now...\nhttps://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/region-intermodal-network-to-benefit-from-3m-buffington-harbor-drive-grant\nAs it appears live December 13, 2017 11:23:56 PM UTC\n  \n  \n    \n          \n      \n    \n      \n          \n        \n    \n  \n    \n                     Region intermodal network to benefit from $3M Buffington Harbor Drive grant", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-partners-with-task-force-to-address-prescription-drug-epidemic", "Donnelly Partners with Task Force to Address Prescription Drug Epidemic", "2015-10-01", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly Partners with Task Force to Address Prescription Drug Epidemic\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenator outlines recommendations to help address drug abuse and addiction in Indiana for Governors Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 1, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly outlined recommendations to help address drug abuse and addiction in Indiana in a letter sent today to the co-chairs of Governor Mike Pences Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention. Donnelly provided suggestions to Governor Pences Task Force as part of a short- and long-term response to Indianas addiction problems. In addition to offering specific suggestions to the Task Force, he emphasized that any strategy to address addiction in Indiana will require the State to not only identify necessary policy changes, but also make a commitment to implementing and funding those changes moving forward.\r\nDonnelly wrote:\r\n \r\nI urge you to take this opportunity to identify honest, actionable recommendations that can be readily implemented as part of both a short-term and a long-term response to Indianas addiction problems.\r\n We must also recognize that a public health crisis of this magnitude necessitates not only sound policy changes, but also a commitment to provide the support and resources required to adequately address the problem. I urge you to work with both the Governor and the General Assembly to ensure they use their full authority to act on and implement the best recommendations this panel provides.\r\nEffective strategies to address this epidemic will take all of us  doctors, pharmacists, public health professionals, educators, law enforcement, and local, state and federal officials  working together.\r\n \r\nAs part of his ongoing effort to combat the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics, earlier this year, Donnelly reintroduced the bipartisan Heroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Act along with Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), which focuses on several key areas: enhancing training and education for prescribers; supporting state development of prescription drug monitoring programs; ensuring adequate funding for law enforcement; expanding access to naloxone; and raising awareness of the dangers of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. In June 2014, Donnelly first introduced bipartisan legislation seeking to address opioid addiction.\r\nDonnelly outlined the following recommendations in his letter to Governor Pences Task Force:\r\nPrevention\r\n \r\nFurther engagement with the prescriber community\r\n\r\nDonnelly recently co-hosted a roundtable with Congresswoman Susan Brooks (IN- 05) on prescriber engagement and education with federal and state level officials, doctors, pharmacists, and public health officials. While Indiana has taken significant steps to curb over-prescribing, more can be done to ensure that Indianas prescribers have the training and tools necessary to help broadly address opioid abuse and addiction.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nUtilize INSPECT, Indianas prescription drug monitoring program, to its full potential\r\n\r\nPrescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are one of the most promising state-level tools to address prescription drug abuse, and there have been reports of problems with the administration and security of INSPECT, Indianas PDMP. Donnelly encouraged Governor Pence to provide the program with the attention and support necessary to address management and security concerns, and enhance its use as a public health tool in Indiana.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport local drug abuse prevention efforts \r\n\r\nDonnelly has been a strong supporter of increasing funding for the Drug Free Communities (DFC) Program, which provides federal grants to community coalitions engaged in local drug abuse prevention efforts aimed at young people. In the letter, he called on the Task Force to engage with stakeholders and allocate additional resources to strengthen prevention efforts across the state.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nEnforcement \r\n \r\nExpand access to innovative criminal justice programs to rehabilitate low-level offenders facing addiction\r\n\r\nInnovative criminal justice programs, such as Drug Treatment Courts, Veterans Courts, and enhanced probation programs provide a treatment-focused alternative to incarceration for certain non-violent offenders. These programs are already in place in some counties in Indiana and their use could be expanded with more support. Donnelly has supported federal funding to help launch these types of criminal justice programs.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nAccess to Treatment \r\n \r\nUtilize federal initiatives to expand access to treatment for people with substance abuse disorders\r\n\r\nDonnelly recommended that the Task Force utilize the federal initiative offered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to expand and improve access to physical and behavioral health care for people with substance abuse disorders. Under the initiative, states may receive funding for costs that would not otherwise be matched, such as services delivered to targeted populations, in limited geographic areas, or in settings that are not otherwise covered under the Medicaid program.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nFull text of the letter is below and a signed copy can be downloaded here.\r\nOctober 1, 2015\r\n\r\nJohn H. Hill\r\nDeputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety\r\nOffice of Governor Mike Pence\r\n200 West Washington Street\r\nIndianapolis, IN 46204\r\n\r\nDr. John J. Wernert\r\nSecretary\r\nIndiana Family and Social Services Administration\r\nP.O. Box 7083\r\n402 West Washington Street\r\nIndianapolis, IN 46207\r\n  Dear Mr. Hill and Secretary Wernert:\r\nThank you for the invitation to provide comments to the Governors Task Force on Drug Enforcement, Treatment, and Prevention. Like many Hoosiers, I am deeply troubled by our states struggle with drug abuse and addiction, particularly the ongoing opioid abuse epidemic, and its impact on individual Hoosiers, their families, and our communities. I am grateful for your participation in this important Task Force, and I urge you to take this opportunity to identify honest, actionable recommendations that can be readily implemented as part of both a short-term and a long-term response to Indianas addiction problems.\r\nWe must also recognize that a public health crisis of this magnitude necessitates not only sound policy changes, but also a commitment to provide the support and resources required to adequately address the problem. I urge you to work with both the Governor and the General Assembly to ensure that they use their full authority to act on and implement the best recommendations this panel provides.\r\nEffective strategies to address this epidemic will take all of us  doctors, pharmacists, public health professionals, educators, law enforcement, and local, state and federal officials  working together. As your partner in the U.S. Senate, I have identified steps that we can take at the federal level to help prevent drug abuse, assist those who are struggling with addiction, and support law enforcement in their efforts to crack down on drug trafficking and protect the public from related crime.\r\nOver the last two years, I have worked with my friend, Senator Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire, to introduce the bipartisan Heroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Prevention, Education, and Enforcement Act, which focuses on several key areas: enhancing training and education for prescribers; supporting state development of prescription drug monitoring programs; ensuring adequate funding for law enforcement; expanding access to naloxone; and raising awareness of the dangers of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use.\r\nIn addition to advocating for these priorities, I have called on my colleagues on the relevant Senate Appropriations Subcommittees to prioritize funding to expand access to treatment for those suffering from addiction. I also am exploring ways that the federal government can help incentivize more people to pursue careers as providers of substance abuse treatment services to address the critical shortage of substance abuse treatment providers in Indiana and across the country.\r\nBelow, I am providing detailed comments to the Task Force on several of these areas. Fighting drug addiction in our state will require a comprehensive effort. These comments are not intended as an exhaustive list of solutions, but rather, suggestions for defined areas in which we can take action now to help address drug abuse and addiction in Indiana going forward.\r\nPrevention\r\nPrescriber Engagement and Education\r\nOver-prescribing of opioid painkillers has contributed to the epidemic of opioid addiction that we are seeing across the United States. At the federal level, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently undertaking a review process, similar to the one Senator Ayotte and I call for in our bill, to develop recommended opioid prescribing guidelines in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including medical professionals, federal and state agencies, pain management organizations, and others. I am following this process closely, and I am hopeful that it will produce recommendations that will be useful tools for prescribers, assisting in efforts to identify those who are at risk for addiction, while ensuring that those for whom opioid painkillers are the best treatment can safely receive them to manage their pain.\r\nI recently co-hosted a roundtable discussion on this topic with Congresswoman Susan Brooks, and it was clear from our discussion that while Indiana has already taken significant steps to curb over-prescribing, there is more that we can do to ensure that Indianas prescribers have the training and tools that they need to help address opioid abuse and addiction more broadly.\r\nI encourage the Task Force to consider ways to further engage the prescriber community in the fight against opioid addiction, one of the most significant addiction challenges facing our state.\r\nPrescription Drug Monitoring Programs\r\nThe CDC has recognized that prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are one of the most promising state-level tools to address prescription drug abuse. This is particularly true if PDMPs are widely used by prescribers, provide real-time or near real-time data, are actively managed and utilized by state health departments, and the reports are easy to use and understand.\r\nIndianas PDMP, INSPECT, has great potential to be a valuable resource for prescribers, law enforcement, and public health officials. Maximizing the potential benefit from this program, however, requires not only resources, but active engagement from the state. Since hearing reports of problems with the administration and security of INSPECT earlier this year, I have been concerned that this program is not receiving the attention that it warrants.\r\nI recommend that the Task Force acknowledge the full potential of Indianas PDMP, INSPECT, and encourage the Governor to provide the program with the attention and support necessary to address management and security concerns, and enhance its use as a public health tool in our state.\r\nPrevention Efforts\r\nI have been a strong supporter of increasing funding for the Drug Free Communities (DFC) Program, which provides federal grants to community coalitions engaged in local drug abuse prevention efforts aimed at young people. Fourteen coalitions in Indiana have received DFC funding in 2015. This type of local effort has proven effective at reducing youth drug use, and there are many more communities that would benefit from similar prevention and education programs.\r\nI hear repeatedly from constituents and stakeholders that more investment in prevention is needed. I encourage the Task Force to engage with these community coalitions and recommend that additional resources be allocated to strengthen prevention efforts across the state.\r\nEnforcement\r\nThe opioid abuse epidemic and increase in heroin use have put additional strain on the limited resources our state and local law enforcement agencies must manage to ensure that the communities they serve are protected. While we need to address drug addiction as a public health matter, absent more intervention, our law enforcement officers and criminal justice system will continue to bear the heavy burden of responding to this epidemic. That is why I have encouraged the Senate Appropriations Committee to support additional funding for state and local law enforcement agencies through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program. In fact, my legislation contains a provision that would reauthorize this vital program through fiscal year 2020. I have also been a supporter of federal grants to help launch Drug Treatment Courts and Veterans Courts throughout the country, which provide a treatment-focused alternative to incarceration for certain non-violent offenders.\r\nI encourage the Task Force to consider ways to expand access to innovative criminal justice programs, such as Drug Treatment Courts, Veterans Courts, and enhanced probation programs for low-level offenders who are facing addiction.\r\nAccess to Treatment\r\nAs you know from the states successful efforts to expand Medicaid through HIP 2.0, an opportunity made possible by the Affordable Care Act, section 1115 of the Social Security Act allows states to test innovative policy and delivery system approaches that promote the objectives of Medicaid. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that states can use the section 1115 waiver to create service delivery systems for Medicaid beneficiaries with substance use disorders (SUD). Through this waiver process, states have the ability to expand and improve access to physical and behavioral health care for people with SUD. As part of this initiative, states may receive federal financial participation (FFP) for costs that would not otherwise be matched, such as services delivered to targeted populations in limited geographic areas, or in settings that are not otherwise covered under the Medicaid program. CMS has already approved a request from California to amend their section 1115 waiver for these services, and other states are looking into ways to take advantage of this program. I encourage you to recommend that the state utilize this federal initiative and stand ready to assist in that effort.\r\nI am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do our part in Congress to fight against addiction. I hope that you will consider my recommendations, and likewise, if there are additional actions at the federal level that the Task Forces believes would be of assistance to Indiana, please do not hesitate to contact me with those suggestions.\r\nSincerely,\r\nJoe Donnelly\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.donnelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press/donnelly-we-are-losing-too-many-of-our-servicemembers-to-suicide", "Donnelly: ‘We Are Losing Too Many of Our Servicemembers to Suicide’", "2015-10-01", "2015", "2015-10", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Joe Donnelly", "D000607", "www.donnelly.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Donnelly: We Are Losing Too Many of Our Servicemembers to Suicide\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tOver 200 servicemembers took their own lives in the first half of 2015\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 1, 2015\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly released the following statement in response to the Department of Defense (DoD) report on military suicides in the second quarter of 2015 released yesterday that found over 200 servicemembers lost to suicide in the first half of 2015. The Pentagon reported that 118 servicemembers took their own lives from April through June, including 71 active component servicemembers, 20 Reservists, and 27 National Guard members. The number of suicides in the second quarter of 2015 increased in the Active and Reserve Components compared to the same period in 2014. Both active component and Reservist suicides also increased since the same period in 2013. Earlier this week, Donnelly released a statement in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month and emphasized that more work needs to be done to address the scourge of military suicide.\r\nDonnelly, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said, The new military suicide numbers released by the Pentagon remind us of what we already know: We are losing too many of our servicemembers to suicide. Although some progress has been made, we still have a lot more work to do to ensure servicemembers and veterans have access to quality mental health care. I will continue to work to have the bipartisan Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package gets signed into law this year.\r\nDonnelly has continued to fight for legislation that would improve mental health care for servicemembers, veterans, and their families. In March, Donnelly introduced the Servicemember and Veteran Mental Health Care Package (Care Package), three bipartisan bills to help expand access to quality mental health care for servicemembers and veterans through both Department of Defense (DoD) and VA facilities, as well as local community providers. Military mental health provisions from the Care Package passed the Senate in June as part of the national defense bill and would help ensure that there are a sufficient number of the best trained mental health providers for servicemembers and veterans.\r\nThe final national defense bill negotiated by the conference committee includes provisions from Donnellys Care Package. The Senate is expected to consider the final national defense bill in the coming weeks. The National Defense Authorization Act has been signed into law for 53 consecutive years.\r\nThe Senate Veterans Affairs Committee has committed to considering veterans-related provisions of Donnellys Care Package in an upcoming hearing. The Care Package would build on the progress made by Donnellys Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law late last year and for the first time requires an annual mental health assessment for all servicemembersActive, Guard, and Reserve.\r\nThis latest DoD report on military suicides adjusted statistics for the first quarter of 2015, reporting 101 servicemembers took their own lives from January through March, including 59 active component servicemembers, 13 Reservists, and 29 National Guard Members. Last year, according to the Pentagon, 443 servicemembers took their own lives, including 273 Active Component servicemembers, 79 Reservists, and 91 National Guard members. In 2014, for the third straight year, more servicemembers were lost to suicide than in combat.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/carson-statement-on-fy2016-continuing-resolution", "Carson Statement on FY2016 Continuing Resolution", "2015-09-30", "2015", "2015-09", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today I voted on a short-term continuing resolution to keep our government open. While this avoids the immediate crisis, I am disappointed to see Congress once again kicking the can down the road. Todays continuing resolution is a quick fix that leaves our country in the same uncertain position 10 weeks from now. The American people deserve better from their leaders than what they are getting today in Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-land-and-water-conservation-fund-grant-for-deep", "Visclosky Announces Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant for Deep River Park", "2015-09-30", "2015", "2015-09", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congressman Pete Visclosky announced today that the National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) has awarded a $200,000.00 grant to the Lake County Park Board for Deep River Park.\nThe Lake County Park Board will use this funding to support their efforts to acquire 97 acres of land along Deep River and adjacent to Deep River County Park. The grant will also support the development of a 1.25 mile trail around the Big Maple Lakes and the construction of recreational amenities, such as picnic shelters, restrooms, and parking lots.\nThe LWCF program provides matching grants for local and state park projects outside of national park boundaries. Since 1965, the National Park Service has provided more than 40,000 LWCF grants to states and local communities.\nEvery nature park and scenic trail in Northwest Indiana provides immeasurable benefits to residents while attracting new people and economic activity to the area. I am happy that the Lake County Park Board was able to successfully obtain federal funding to support the acquisition of new park land and enhance our bike trail system, said Congressman Visclosky. The LWCF program is a critical conservation resource. I have submitted programmatic requests in support of this program to the House Appropriations Committee for Fiscal Year 2016 and in years past, and I will continue to do my utmost to ensure that this program is appropriately funded and reauthorized. We must do more to preserve the wonderful natural resources of Northwest Indiana for future generations.\nFor additional information on the LWCF program click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-release-on-the-3-million-eda-award-for-the-city-of-gary", "Visclosky Release on the $3 Million EDA Award for the City of Gary", "2015-09-30", "2015", "2015-09", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Peter Visclosky", "V000108", "visclosky.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Today, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), under the U.S. Department of Commerce, announced a $3,000,000 award to the City of Gary for investing in Buffington Harbor Drive infrastructure.\nAccording to the EDA, this funding will provide for the construction of critical road infrastructure that will facilitate routing for commercial and light industrial transportation to the areas interstate, rail, and air distribution network. The funding also will support moving truck access that will facilitate the future development of the Gary/Chicago International Airport.\nMayor Karen Freeman-Wilson stated, We are humbled by the vote of confidence as evidenced by the EDA grant. We believe that this road that will result from the grant will support existing and future business that will translate to jobs for Gary residents. We appreciate the opportunity to work with Regional Director Jeanette Tamayo and her team. \nThe Buffington Harbor road project will help to jump-start development in the Gary/Chicago International Airport footprint and continues to leverage the investment made there by the city, state, FAA, RDA, and private partners, said Bill Hanna, President and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority.\nCongressman Pete Visclosky stated, I applaud Mayor Freeman-Wilson for her dedicated efforts to identify federal, state, and regional resources to support the City of Gary. Todays announcement is another example of her successful approach to improve economic opportunities in the City of Gary.\nFor additional information on the EDA, click here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-statement-fy2016-continuing-resolution", "Carson Statement on FY2016 Continuing Resolution", "2015-09-30", "2015", "2015-09", "Democrat", "House", "IN", "Andr\u00e9 Carson", "C001072", "carson.house.gov", "carson", "https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\"Today I voted on a short-term continuing resolution to keep our government open. While this avoids the immediate crisis, I am disappointed to see Congress once again kicking the can down the road. Today's continuing resolution is a quick fix that leaves our country in the same uncertain position 10 weeks from now. The American people deserve better from their leaders than what they are getting today in Congress.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:25:19Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 502, "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": "IN", "p2": "2015"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 502, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=IN&year=2015", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 502, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN&year=2015&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "IN", "label": "IN", "count": 502, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2015", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "2015", "label": "2015", "count": 502, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2015-09-30,https~3A~2F~2Fcarson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fcarson-statement-fy2016-continuing-resolution", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=IN&year=2015&_next=2015-09-30%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fcarson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fcarson-statement-fy2016-continuing-resolution&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 231.90556303597987, "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"}