{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"LA\" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-mourns-loss-nelson-mandela", "Rep. Richmond Mourns the Loss of Nelson Mandela", "2013-12-09", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after learning of the death of former South African President Nelson Mandela:\n\"During my time as a state Representative in Louisiana, Southern University renamed their school of policy the Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs. At an affiliated dinner hosted by the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus, I was given the distinct honor of presenting a resolution to this noble, yet humble leader. It is an experience I have and forever will cherish. Nelson Mandela\u2019s life and legacy are etched in the halls of history because he fearlessly proved to the people of South Africa and to the entire world that we can never bend to racial inequality, poverty or injustice. To the world he is an activist, Nobel Peace prize winner and leader, but I will always regard him as my hero.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-votes-favor-innovation-act", "Richmond Votes in Favor of the Innovation Act", "2013-11-21", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) a member of House Committee on the Judiciary, today released the following statement after voting in support of the Innovation Act this evening:\n\u201cI voted in support of the Innovation Act this evening because it is a good first step in what I hope will be a more inclusive, deliberative direction that will enable the House to build on what the Judiciary Committee has reported. \u00a0I am hopeful that the Chairman will work in a bipartisan way to address remaining concerns with the Innovation Act as it goes to the House Floor. We must ensure that it reflects a balanced approach that protects the rights of patent owners while also reducing abusive patent litigation so that all stakeholders involved can focus on promoting economic growth. \u00a0Without this balance, my continued support is not guaranteed.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-and-house-members-introduce-bipartisan-bill-address-spike-national-flood", "Richmond and House Members Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address Spike in National Flood Insurance Costs", "2013-10-29", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 The House of Representatives led by Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02), Maxine Waters (D-CA) and Michael Grimm (R-NY) today introduced a legislative solution to fix the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which seeks to address affordably and concerns stemming from the implementation of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012.\u00a0\nThe legislation calls for a four-year delay to the program and requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to complete an affordability study and propose a framework that addresses affordability issues. A companion measure was also introduced today in the U.S. Senate by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA).\n\u201cToday, I join my House and Senate colleagues to continue the fight to make flood insurance affordable. We cannot allow Louisiana\u2019s homeowners to face these massive, unaffordable increases alone,\u201d said Congressman Richmond. \u201cFlood insurance increases have sent shockwaves up and down the coastal regions and through the heartland of our country. I\u2019m happy to join my colleagues in drafting this legislation that will provide a sustainable, long-term solution that will allow people to buy and sell homes without penalty. This effort transcends party affiliation and reaches down to the core of our purpose in Congress, which is to draft legislation that protects our constituents. For Louisiana\u2019s communities bearing the brunt of these insurance hikes, today is a big step toward a solution.\u201d\nThe legislation will accomplish the following:\n\u2022Imposes a delay likely to total four years for the most vulnerable properties, by delaying implementation of rate increases until two years after FEMA completes an affordability study, which was mandated in Biggert-Waters but not undertaken. FEMA has estimated it will take 2 years to complete the affordability study. It would then take up to an additional 2 years for FEMA to submit an affordability framework to Congress and for Congress to review the framework. This means rate increases would be delayed for 4 years in total. The delay applies to: primary, non-repetitive loss residences that are currently grandfathered; all properties sold after July 6, 2012; and all properties that purchased a new policy after July 6, 2012.\n\u2022Requires FEMA to propose an affordability framework that addresses the identified affordability issues within 18 months after the completion of the study and provides 6 months for Congressional review.\n\u2022Allows FEMA to utilize National Flood Insurance Funds to reimburse policyholders who successfully appeal a map determination.\n\u2022Eliminates the 50 percent cap on state and local contributions to levee construction and reconstruction.\n\u2022Protects the so-called \u201cbasement exception,\u201d which allows the lowest proofed opening in a home to be used for determining flood insurance rates.\n\u2022Establishes a Flood Insurance Rate Map Advocate within FEMA to answer current and prospective policyholder questions about the flood mapping process.\n\u2022Requires FEMA to certify that the agency has fully adopted a modernized risk-based approach to analyzing flood risk.\nOriginal Cosponsors of the legislation include: Representatives Michael Grimm (R-NY); Maxine Waters (D-CA); Cedric Richmond (D-LA); Pete Olson (R-TX); Steven Palazzo (R-MS); Patrick Murphy (D-FL); Bill Cassidy (R-LA); Doris Matsui (D-CA); Kevin Cramer (R-ND); William Keating (D-MA); Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL);Corrine Brown (D-FL); Rub\u00e9n Hinojosa (D-TX); Gregory Meeks (D-NY); Mike McIntyre (D-NC);\u00a0 Jerrold Nadler (D-NY); Richard Nugent (R-FL); Bobby Scott (D-VA); Jim Langevin (D-RI); Joseph Crowley (D-NY); Gwen Moore (D-WI); Glenn Thompson (R-PA); Walter Jones (R- NC); Peter Welch (D- VT); William Enyart (D- IL); Frank LoBiondo (R- NJ); Stephen Lynch (D-MA); John Carney (D-DE); John Culberson (R-TX); Kathy Castor (D-FL); Joe Garcia (D-FL); Lois Frankel (D-FL); Nydia Velazquez (D-NY); Jan Schakowsky (D-IL); Peter King (R-NY); Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ); Carolyn Maloney (D-NY); Frederica Wilson (D-FL); Filemon Vela; (D- TX); Rodney Davis (R-IL); John Tierney (D-MA); Ed Perlmutter (D \u2013 CO); Keith Ellison (D-MN); Ted Deutch (D-FL); Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY); Mario\u00a0 Diaz-Balart (R-FL); Jerry McNerney (D-CA); Charles Boustany (R-LA); William Lacy Clay (D-MO); Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO); Steve Scalise (R \u2013LA); Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY); John Garamendi (D-CA); Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX); Vern Buchannan (R-FL) and Robert Andrews (D-NJ).\n\u201cHomeowners across the nation have been hit with skyrocketing flood insurance rates, which they simply cannot afford,\u201d said. Rep. Michael Grimm. \u201cOn Staten Island, this is an unbearable blow that further victimizes those who are still struggling to recover from Superstorm Sandy.\u00a0 I am proud to be part of bipartisan, bicameral solution to delay the rate hikes, while improving the Biggert-Waters Act in ways that protect homeowners from financial burdens and maintain the solvency of the National Flood Insurance Program.\u201d\n\u201cThe Biggert-Waters legislation was designed to address a $24 billion deficit and ensure millions of American homeowners could continue to purchase flood insurance. But FEMA\u2019s poor implementation, inaccurate mapping and incomplete data has led to unreasonable and unimaginable increases in premiums. From the moment I learned of the unintended consequences of the Biggert-Waters legislation, I have made clear that I would lead the effort to resolve the problems that have resulted,\u201d said Rep. Maxine Waters, Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee. \u201cToday we have reached bipartisan, bicameral agreement on the best way to repair the National Flood Insurance Program. This legislation would ensure FEMA undertakes program changes in a way that will not cause harm, by delaying implementation until it provides Congress the facts on how rate increases will affect homeowners. It will also give us the information we need to go through the program piece-by-piece and fix any outstanding affordability issues.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-flood-protection-amendment-passes-house", "Richmond Flood Protection Amendment Passes in the House", "2013-10-23", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02), lauded the passage of H.R. 3080 \u2013 the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2013\u00a0which includes a flood protection amendment he authored. The amendment is based on H.R. 1769, the Recognizing the National Benefits of Flood Protection Act of 2013, a bill Rep. Richmond introduced to require the Corps to calculate the national benefits of proposed flood protection projects such as the West Shore Hurricane Protection Project.\n\u201cSince coming to Congress, I have made flood protection one of my top priorities. The West Shore Levee Project has been at the forefront of my efforts and I am pleased that the passage of my amendment to H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2013,\u00a0brings us closer to making this project a reality,\u201d Rep Richmond said. \u201cThis bill ensures that Congress and the Corps understand that flood protection projects in Louisiana will protect the country from economic shocks like sudden increases in the price of gasoline caused by a hurricane. In order to secure funding in this tight fiscal climate, the federal government must grasp how important areas like the River Parishes are to the U.S. economy. This is a big step in getting the alignment that the residents of the River Parishes desire.\u201d\nRep. Richmond\u2019s amendment directs the Corps to include the following in its economic analysis of a proposed flood protection project:\n The benefits from a reduction in national and regional economic losses, such as a spike in gasoline prices caused by a hurricane\n\tThe benefits from a reduction in flood damage to public and private property and infrastructure\n\tThe benefits to public safety from the protection of important evacuation routes\n Richmond Flood Protection Timeline:\n\u2022\u00a0Rep. Richmond held a conference call in April with the Corps\u2019 highest ranking civilian leader to urge her to allocate the full amount necessary to complete the West Shore Levee study.\n\u2022\u00a0On April 26, 2013, Rep. Richmond introduced the Recognizing the National Benefits of Flood Protection Act of 2013, HR-1769. The bill would require the Army Corps of Engineers to calculate the national benefits of proposed flood protection projects.\n\u2022\u00a0In May, Rep. Richmond held a town hall in St. John the Baptist Parish where the local Corps officials announced that the Corps had requested the money necessary to complete this study.\n\u2022\u00a0In June, Rep. Richmond sent a letter with Senator Mary Landrieu to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget urging it to approve the Corps request for funding for West Shore.\n\u2022\u00a0In October, Rep Richmond introduced an amendment to H.R. 3080 which reiterated the flood protection provisions in the Recognizing the National Benefits of Flood Protection Act of 2013. The amendment was adopted.\n\u2022\u00a0On October 23, 2013, H.R. 3080-Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2013 passed in the House of Representatives with the Richmond amendment.\nFootage of Rep. Richmond urging his colleagues to vote for his amendment can be viewed here .\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-statement-ending-government-shutdown-and-avoidance-financial-crisis", "Rep. Richmond Statement on Ending of Government Shutdown and Avoidance of Financial Crisis", "2013-10-17", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 2775, a bill which authorizes the U.S. Treasury to continue borrowing through Feb. 7, and funds the government through Jan. 15:\n\u201cAs we\u00a0 breathe a temporary sigh of relief after 16 days of a government shutdown, Congress needs to take heed because America has made it crystal clear that they will not tolerate this dysfunctional governing approach. We have a responsibility to our constituents and the American people to represent them with fairness and integrity and above all else, to do our jobs and actually govern.\n\u201cFunding the government and paying our bills are priorities we cannot avoid, neglect or retreat to partisan debate over. Regardless of which party is in the majority, we all must take responsibility to work together instead of holding the country and our functionality hostage out of spite. This shutdown should never have been regarded as a means to an end, because in the end, our constituents lose. Similarly, refusal to raise the debt ceiling would have had repercussions that would impact this country for generations to come. Our financial viability as a nation is simply never worth risking.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-calls-obama-grant-personnel-essential-wake-storm", "Rep. Richmond Calls on Obama to Grant Personnel Essential in Wake of Storm", "2013-10-03", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following letter today requesting that President Obama intervene in the midst of the government shutdown to give federal agencies responsible for hurricane response and preparedness the authority to deemed their personnel essential:\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 October 3, 2013\nPresident Barack Obama  \n\tThe White House  \n\t1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW  \n\tWashington, DC 20500\n\u00a0\nDear President Obama,\nTropical Storm Karen is forecast to make landfall along the Northern Gulf Coast Friday evening as a possible hurricane. With the current government shutdown unlikely to end soon, I respectfully request that you grant all relevant federal agencies the immediate authority to deem all personnel essential so that hurricane preparations and response activities are not interrupted.\nAs you know, the federal government plays a critical role in protecting life and property during and after natural disasters. From the pre-stationing of food and water by FEMA, to SBA loans for disaster survivors, a swift recovery from any hurricane is dependent on a functioning federal government.\u00a0 While I am extremely disappointed that some in Congress are intent on keeping government shuttered, I urge you to take all measures necessary to help residents in this region prepare for and recovery from this storm.\nWe thank you in advance for your efforts in ensuring that the vital services that protect our nation remain operating during this trying time.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sincerely,\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Cedric L. Richmond\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Member of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-statement-status-continuing-resolution", "Rep. Richmond Statement on Status of Continuing Resolution", "2013-10-02", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after none of the House majority\u2019s latest three bills, which broke up the Continuing Resolution, passed in the House of Representatives:\n\u201cWe have an obligation in Congress to get the entire government up and running again! Today\u2019s effort by the GOP confirms that they are out of touch with the American people and don\u2019t understand the gravity of a shutdown. I will not support wasting more time with mini bills that only offer empty rhetoric instead of a real solution. How can we pick and choose what stays open and what remains closed when people\u2019s livelihoods are on the line? I won\u2019t do it. There are 800,000 furloughed federal employees who lie in the balance of this ruthless standoff.\n\u201cThis is a piecemeal approach that selectively addresses some areas and not others \u2013 that\u2019s not how you run a government. These bills don\u2019t even scratch the surface to delivering a solution that ends this shutdown and gets federal employees back to work.\u00a0 We are wasting precious time that we don\u2019t have and literally can\u2019t afford to waste. Republicans need to get serious because we are in serious times.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-statement-continuing-resolution", "Rep. Richmond Statement on Continuing Resolution", "2013-09-30", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement regarding the House majority\u2019s Continuing Resolution and pending government shutdown:\n\u201cToday, House Republicans united together in true contempt against the American people. Instead of working constructively to help pass a Continuing Resolution that keeps the government open for business, they have chosen to unite in an all-out war against the middle class, the poor, our service men and women and federal employees. It is unacceptable that we stand on the brink of a government shutdown all because of some of my colleagues\u2019 disdain for a policy the Supreme Court\u00a0 has already declared the law of the land. This year alone, 60,000 Louisiana seniors have saved $89 million on medication. Without this law 795,000 Louisianans would lose access to quality, dependable healthcare. A repeal of Obamacare is to ignore the needs of our most vulnerable.\n\u201cIt is sad and disheartening to work with people who refuse to compromise or work together for the common good of our economy and all of our constituents. We were elected to the House of Representatives to legislate, but instead, House leadership has demonstrated they are incapable of doing that. I hope that these obstructionists change their ways or change their career path, because they have contaminated what it means to be a public servant. Time and time again, I have tried to be hopeful and optimistic that my Republican colleagues would find a way to be reasonable and fair, today confirms that\u2019s just not possible.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-lauds-avondale-union-agreement", "Rep. Richmond Lauds Avondale Union Agreement", "2013-09-27", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement in response to the ratification of a five-year collective bargaining agreement between Huntington Ingalls, operator of the Avondale shipyard, the New Orleans Metal Trades Council (NOMTC) and the Metal Trades Department (MTD):\n\u201cI am extremely pleased that the New Orleans Metal Trades Council and the Metal Trades Department approved a new collective bargaining agreement with Huntington Ingalls.\u00a0 This is another important step in our collective efforts to keep Avondale open for business. This agreement means stable, good paying jobs for employees and an Avondale that is able to compete worldwide for new commercial work. It includes competitive wages and benefits to ensure Avondale continues to employ the industry\u2019s best and brightest. Avondale has a long legacy of excellence that I will do everything in my power to preserve.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-calls-attention-unethical-practices-eastern-district-us-attorney%E2%80%99s-office", "Rep. Richmond Calls Attention to Unethical Practices in Eastern District U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office", "2013-09-24", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond (D-LA), sent the following letter to Attorney General Eric Holder calling on the Department of Justice to continue their investigation into the unethical behavior of senior attorneys in the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the\u00a0Eastern District of Louisiana. In this letter, Rep. Richmond emphasizes that Kenneth Polite, the newly appointed U.S. Attorney for the District, should not begin his role burdened by investigating his staff. Rep. Richmond sent letters on March 21, 2012 requesting a thorough investigation as well as on November 15, 2012.\nSeptember 24, 2013\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nThe Honorable Eric H. Holder, Jr.  \n\tAttorney General of the United States  \n\tU.S. Department of Justice  \n\t950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW  \n\tWashington, DC 20530  \n\t\u00a0\n\u00a0\nDear Attorney General Holder,\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I write you once again about what has been discovered to be pervasive, unethical behavior by senior attorneys in the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana (the Office).\u00a0 In a letter my colleagues and I sent to you on March 21, 2012, we requested a thorough investigation of misconduct after it was revealed that a senior litigation attorney had been commenting online about ongoing investigations.\u00a0 We explained to you that the misconduct could have a severe and lasting impact on the administration of justice, and that absent a full investigation, the public\u2019s trust would be eroded.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 On November 15, 2012, given the disturbing news that the Office\u2019s First Assistant had also commented online about ongoing cases, I again wrote to you with significant concerns about the slow pace of the Office of Professional Responsibility\u2019s investigation.\u00a0 I was pleased when in the following month you appointed John A. Horn to lead an investigation into the matter.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Unfortunately, the ten month investigation by Mr. Horn has culminated in a scathing order by District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt that grants a new trial for police officers accused of killing unarmed civilians after Hurricane Katarina.\u00a0 The Engelhardt order also calls into question the thoroughness of investigations of grand jury leaks and online commenting within the Office and raises serious questions about the veracity with which the former leadership of the Office was communicating with courts and the public.\u00a0 Nevertheless, there are considerable improprieties that remain unexamined.\u00a0 I am distressed by Judge Engelhardt\u2019s statement that \u201cmuch is still not known about the nature and extent of government activities similar to those reflected herein.\u201d\u00a0 Going further, the Court discloses that it has \u201cseen the government omit pertinent facts, [and] conceal material information\u2026\u201d\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As you know, Kenneth Polite was recently confirmed by the Senate to serve as our new United States Attorney for the New Orleans region. The shadow of impropriety that continues to cloak this office will make it very difficult to administer the Office with the highest level of public support and credibility. Further, as his first order of business, Mr. Polite should not be tasked with investigating his staff and predecessors for these misdeeds.\u00a0 That is why it is imperative that you expand the ongoing investigation and empower it with independent prosecutorial power to make all relevant facts public and bring any breach of law to light.\u00a0 The first step in the process should be for DOJ to make public Mr. Horn\u2019s reports filed in U.S. v. Kenneth Bowen, et al.\u00a0 In addition, I urge you give Mr. Polite the flexibility to quickly staff his office with seasoned prosecutors free from the taint of this ongoing investigation.\u00a0\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I do not hold you or the Obama Administration responsible for the actions of rogue attorneys, but I do demand accountability and transparency in DOJ\u2019s response and investigation. What I have seen thus far is woefully inadequate and it is time for there to be a public accounting.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Respectfully,\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Cedric L. Richmond  \n\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\ncc:\u00a0 Kenneth Polite", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-introduces-legislation-derail-youth-incarceration", "Rep. Richmond Introduces Legislation to Derail Youth Incarceration", "2013-09-19", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond (D-LA), today introduced the Student Disciplinary Fairness Act of 2013, in an effort to curb the saddening trend of youth incarceration due to schools\u2019 over reliance on law enforcement to address misbehavior in the classroom.\n\u201cThere are jurisdictions and schools all across the country that actually criminalize minor behavioral infractions. It is absolutely troubling to learn that violating a school\u2019s dress code or talking back to a teacher are included among the instances that have resulted in a student being arrested,\u201d said Congressman Richmond.\u00a0 \u201cInstead of serving in-school detention or doing extra homework, teachers and schools are hastily referring kids to the criminal justice system, kids who have not actually committed any kind of crime. This is an obscene disciplinary approach and actually turns a student with minor behavior problems into a juvenile offender, a stigma that is extremely difficult to erase. The Student Disciplinary Fairness Act of 2013 aims to create practical tools that states, local governments and law enforcement officials can use to reform and reverse this devastating trend.\u201d\nThe Student Disciplinary Fairness Act of 2013:\n Establishes an office at the Department of Justice to monitor developments related to egregious school disciplinary practices to reduce the number of juveniles that end up in jail for activity that takes place in a school setting and promote alternatives to detention for students by working with local and federal stakeholders.\n\tAuthorizes the Attorney General to access relevant juvenile justice records in the course of investigations into constitutional violations in how juvenile justice is administered and enforced.\n\tAuthorizes a grant program for states and subdivisions to invest in reforming their policies and procedures. Applicants to this grant program will be given credit for taking initial steps to reform their juvenile justice measures.\n\tAuthorizes the Department of Justice to conduct data collection and encourages the agency to work more closely with the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Education to ensure that up-to-date data on this issue is compiled and made available to the public.\n\tChanges current laws to ensure that applicants for Community Oriented Policing Services Grants (COPS) grant funding take the necessary steps to reform their juvenile justice systems if they are not compliant with the 4th, 5th and 14th amendments of the U.S. Constitution, including assurances that probable cause is determined before student arrests, that procedural due process protections are upheld and that any existing probation contracts do not contain clauses that result in incarceration due to probation violations resulting from minor school based rules violations.\n\tProvides a funding stream for schools to help build the capacity of teachers and other personnel to implement prevention and mitigation strategies to ensure that minor disciplinary issues do not devolve into criminal justice issues. Only jurisdictions that are compliant with data requests from the DOE Office of Civil Rights will be eligible to apply for funds.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-lauds-senate-judiciary-committee-approval-kenneth-polite-jr-us-attorney", "Rep. Richmond Lauds Senate Judiciary Committee Approval of Kenneth Polite Jr. as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana", "2013-09-12", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement after the Senate Judiciary Committee approved Kenneth Polite\u2019s nomination for U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana:\n\u201cI am extremely pleased with the Senate Judiciary Committee\u2019s approval of Kenneth Polite and am confident that he will receive strong support before the full Senate. There is no doubt in my mind that once confirmed, Kenneth will excel as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana. I call on the Senate to move quickly to confirm Kenneth so he can get to work protecting the people of the Eastern District.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-cedric-richmond-responds-fema-flood-rate-announcement", "Rep. Cedric Richmond Responds to FEMA Flood Rate Announcement", "2013-09-04", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cFEMA\u2019s announcement today was disheartening and confirms what I, my colleagues, and Louisiana\u2019s homeowners have feared for months. These new rates will indeed have a crippling impact on too many of Louisiana\u2019s homeowners. I call on my colleagues to respond with urgency and pass my bill, H.R. 2199, the Flood Insurance Implementation Reform Act of 2013, to protect homeowners from steep increases in flood insurance rates. The legislation has support from the entire Louisiana delegation and representatives nationwide. Louisianans and homeowners all across the nation desperately need us to address the crisis of flood insurance affordability. Moving forward, I am committed to working with FEMA and members on both sides of the aisle to find a sustainable, long-term solution.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-reflects-anniversary-hurricane-katrina", "Rep. Richmond Reflects on the Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina", "2013-08-29", "2013", "2013-08", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement marking the eighth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina:\n\u201cToday, I join my fellow Louisianans as we reflect on the horrible day that Hurricane Katrina delivered a devastating and life-altering blow to the Gulf Coast region. The state of Louisiana and the entire nation will never forget the catastrophic impact of the storm and the events that followed.\u00a0 That day, a disastrous mix of natural and man-made elements claimed the lives of more than 1,800 of our neighbors, family members, and friends-- changing life as we knew it. The storm took a physical, emotional and financial toll on every man, woman and child in its reach. Eight years later, communities are still struggling to pick up the pieces of their lives. As we reflect on the eighth anniversary of the most catastrophic storm in U.S. History, I am inspired by the lessons that have emerged from the families, businesses and communities along the Gulf Coast. Every school, road and home that is rebuilt and every business that returns is a testament that our rebirth has been defined not by our tragedy, but instead by our triumph.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-commemorates-50th-anniversary-march-washington", "Rep. Richmond Commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington", "2013-08-28", "2013", "2013-08", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement marking the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington:\n\u201c50 years ago today, over 250,000 people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. It marked a pivotal period in our nation\u2019s history. The march took direct aim at discrimination and segregation, calling for civil and economic rights. It was the clarion call for human rights.\u00a0 We now gather in our nation\u2019s capitol to trace those historic steps to honor the march that sparked a movement, and the movement which led to a revolution.\n\u201cAs pioneers in the movement reflect on how the march impacted their lives, it is imperative that we remember how far we have yet to go in affirming Dr. King\u2019s Historic \u201cI have a dream\u201d speech.\u00a0 We must ensure that those who gathered on August 28,, 1963 did not march in vain. We have come a long way in the fight against inequality based on gender, race and sexual orientation, but we have an obligation to carry the torch for civil rights even further.\n\u201cThis was a march that called for racial as well as economic equality through comprehensive policy reform.\u00a0 Health disparities, voting rights, criminal justice inequities, access to quality education, urban violence, poverty, unemployment and homelessness are among many outstanding issues that confirm we still have work to do. Just as the young and old, rich and poor, black and white marched on that day, we must again find the tenacity and courage to take up their cause. Today, let us celebrate and honor this historic occasion by renewing our commitment to continue the fight.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-lauds-holder%E2%80%99s-efforts-implement-prison-sentencing-reform", "Richmond Lauds Holder\u2019s Efforts to Implement Prison Sentencing Reform", "2013-08-13", "2013", "2013-08", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02), member on the House Committee on the Judiciary, sent the following letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder commending him for his recent decision to modify Justice Department policies that rigidly charge low-level, non-violent drug offenders with mandatory minimum sentences. In this letter, Congressman Richmond calls such policies, which disproportionately affect minorities and poor people, both egregious and draconian in nature.\nAugust 13, 2013\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nThe Honorable Eric H. Holder\nAttorney General of the United States\nU.S. Department of Justice\n950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Room 1145\nWashington, DC 20530\n\u00a0\nDear Attorney General Holder:\nI write to applaud the Administration\u2019s decision to modify Justice Department policy to ensure that low-level non-violent drug offenders will no longer be charged with egregious and draconian mandatory minimum sentences. The Obama Administration deserves credit for continuing to seek improvements in US sentencing policy, as demonstrated by its advocacy for the reduction in the 100 to 1 sentencing disparity between crack and cocaine offenses back in 2010. I also applaud your accurate diagnosis that \u201cpeople of color often face harsher punishments than their peers\u201d and your related conclusion that this is a truly national priority because \u201ctoo many Americans go to too many prisons for far too long, and for no truly good law enforcement reason.\u201d I also firmly support your embrace of diversion programs such as drug treatment and community service that serve as alternatives to incarceration as a means of addressing these goals. The mandatory minimums policy shift is a welcome overture which will ensure that policy discussions regarding our imprisonment policy trend in a more positive direction.\nWhile I am happy to see progress in this area, more will be needed to ensure that the public safety, moral and fiscal implications of our imprisonment policies are sustainably improved. We must work together to turn your proposed changes, and others, into statute to ensure that they cannot be unilaterally overturned by a future administration. I stand as a willing partner and strong advocate in Congress on prison and sentencing reforms. This should be near the top of your agenda in light of the positive economic and fiscal impacts these reforms could have on local, state and national economies. Our current policies separate families, drain the local tax base, increase neighborhood unemployment and drain the Federal coffers at a moment of extreme fiscal restraint. \nI encourage you to continue to formally discuss legislation such as the Justice Safety Valve Act of 2013, of which I am a co-sponsor, so as to provide Judges with the requisite discretion to more swiftly advance the impact of sentencing reforms. \u00a0This is but one bill that is a part of a broader effort in Congress to pursue change in this area which will save taxpayer money while improving the lives of average Americans who may have erred in judgment. I also encourage you to be a more vocal advocate of expanding the amount of good time credits an inmate can earn and promoting compassionate release programming. Current law affords inmates the opportunity to earn up to 54 days of good time credit per year. You should publicly embrace the expansion of the credits by 14 to 100 days per year in order to accelerate the de-population of prisons and save taxpayers almost $10 billion over a ten year window. The compassionate release of older or infirm inmates would achieve a similar positive de-population and savings goal. \u00a0With your support of these and other policies, you will find allies on both sides of the aisle in both Chambers prepared to engage you in this terribly important conversation. \nIt is high time that we focus on keeping people out of jail by investing in economic and human capital development, instead of throwing hundreds of billions of dollars at the symptoms of the diseases of underinvestment and societal neglect. If we invested half of what we spend on our criminal justice system in schools and job training, the yield would be powerful and sustainable. I am excited about this decision and am eager to partner with you to ensure that this is but the first step on a journey to a more reasonable, efficient and impactful prison policy. \n\u00a0\nSincerely,\n\u00a0\nCedric L. Richmond\nMember of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-mourns-loss-ambassador-lindy-boggs", "Rep. Richmond Mourns the Loss of Ambassador Lindy Boggs", "2013-08-01", "2013", "2013-08", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after learning of the passing of former Congressman and U.S. Ambassador, Lindy Boggs:\n\"My thoughts and prayers are with the Boggs family as we all mourn the loss of a true legend, Ambassador Lindy Boggs. I am grateful for the opportunity to have known Lindy. She was a first class public servant who had many firsts\nLindy Boggs was truly the perfect example of leadership, never afraid to fight for justice and demand equality.\u00a0 To know her is to know a woman who loved her family, her country, and the many people she served. She took the responsibility of service seriously, and the 2nd Congressional District and the state of Louisiana are better for it. She demanded respect across the globe, not because of her words, but because of her actions; a woman who was small in stature, but big in heart.\nI am grateful for the opportunity I had to celebrate her while she was still with us. We acknowledged her birthday and her body of work earlier this year at the U.S. Capitol during Women's History month. I pray we all find comfort in her tenacity, accomplishments, and sacrifices.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/bipartisan-legislation-introduced-improve-tsa%E2%80%99s-acquisition-process", "Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Improve TSA\u2019s Acquisition Process", "2013-07-19", "2013", "2013-07", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "July 18, 2013 (WASHINGTON) \u2013 Today, Transportation Security Subcommittee Ranking Member Cedric L. Richmond (D-LA) and Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) joined Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) and Transportation Security Subcommittee Chairman Richard Hudson (R-SC) in co-sponsoring legislation to improve the Transportation Security Administration\u2019s (TSA) acquisition process. The legislation was introduced today by Rep. Hudson.\nH.R. 2719, the Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act, requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to develop a multi-year strategic plan for security-related technology acquisitions, conduct a cost-benefit analysis for purchases and create an inventory tracking system. TSA has repeatedly purchased and deployed equipment that was not proper tested or failed to meet performance objectives. By streamlining its process for obtaining new equipment, TSA will improve security, better engage the private sector in research and development and make better use of its budget.\nSubcommittee Ranking Member Richmond:\u00a0 \u201cSmall businesses have always been our nation\u2019s greatest innovators\u2014developing new products and technologies while fueling the nation\u2019s economy.\u00a0 It is vital that TSA develop a long-term, strategic acquisition action plan to increase small business participation, promote innovation and increase competition.\u00a0 I\u2019m proud that the Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act tackles some of TSA\u2019s longstanding acquisition challenges, and I commend Chairman Hudson\u2019s bipartisan approach that has produced this much-needed legislation.\u201d\nRanking Member Thompson: \u201cI am pleased to join Ranking Member Richmond, Chairman Hudson, and Chairman McCaul in introducing the Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act.\u00a0 For years, I, along with my colleagues on the Committee, have urged TSA to act as a more prudent steward of taxpayer funds when purchasing security-related technology.\u00a0 In May, we heard from the GAO and the DHS Inspector General on the challenges TSA continues to face with acquisitions.\u00a0 Yesterday, we heard from stakeholders on ways TSA can improve its performance and increase partnerships with small businesses that produce innovative technologies.\u00a0 The legislation introduced today represents a bipartisan effort to increase transparency, accountability, and small business participation in TSA\u2019s acquisition practices.\u201d\nChairman McCaul: \u201cFor too long, TSA has struggled with efficiently testing, investing in and deploying new technology. According to the DHS Inspector General, mismanagement has left $185 million in taxpayer-funded equipment, some unusable or outdated, locked up in warehouses. As part of the Committee\u2019s fiscal oversight of the Department, the Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act will help fix TSA\u2019s broken acquisition process and save taxpayer dollars. The bill adds transparency by requiring TSA to develop a long-term acquisition plan, ensures scarce funds are not wasted on technology that ultimately fails to meet performance objectives, and encourages better use of private sector innovations. H.R. 2719 will help TSA successfully carry out its critical mission of protecting our nation\u2019s transportation systems and will ensure its budget is properly used in the process.\u201d\nSubcommittee Chairman Hudson: \u201cMy top priorities as Chairman of the Transportation Security Subcommittee are to improve transparency and accountability within TSA and lead TSA to a more risk-based, passenger-friendly future that protects taxpayer interests. The bipartisan piece of legislation introduced today includes commonsense reforms that create a multi-year acquisitions plan, establish cost-benefit analysis, improve TSA\u2019s engagement with small business, and efficiently track and manage equipment in inventory. I am confident these reforms will have a lasting impact and help restore trust in TSA\u2019s ability to effectively execute its mission and save hard-earned taxpayer dollars.\u201d\nSpecifically, H.R. 2719 requires TSA to:\n Develop a multi-year technology acquisition plan within 180 days of enactment of the bill and to update the plan every two years.\n  Conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to determine if purchases are justified.\n  Establish and track baseline program requirements, such as estimated costs, schedules, milestones, identified risks and plans to mitigate those risks.\n  Use existing equipment before purchasing additional equipment and create a process for tracking inventory.\n  Publish goals for contracting with small and disadvantaged businesses and provide an annual progress report to Congress\u00a0\n Full text of H.R. 2719 can be found HERE.\n# \u00a0#\u00a0 #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-landrieu-announce-88m-disaster-grants-st-tammany-parish-archdiocese-new", "Richmond, Landrieu Announce $8.8M In Disaster Grants for St. Tammany Parish, Archdiocese of New Orleans, Westbank", "2013-07-17", "2013", "2013-07", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond D-La and U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La today announced over $8.8 million in federal funding for reconstruction efforts related to Hurricane Katrina.\n\u201cHurricane Katrina destroyed thousands of homes and businesses in New Orleans and this funding will support our continued efforts to reconstruct and revitalize south Louisiana,\u201d Sen. Landrieu said. \u201cAs always, I remain committed to rebuilding our communities stronger and better than before.\u201d\n\u201cEach grant awarded brings a measure of closure to the families and communities in the state of Louisiana,\u201d Rep. Richmond said. \u201cFunding announced today will ensure that we can make the necessary repairs to continue providing vital services to the city and people of New Orleans.\nToday\u2019s grant provides:\n\u2022\u00a0$2.7 million to the Alexander Milne Home for Women for the replacement of four dormitory buildings to be rebuilt in Waldheim in St. Tammany Parish.\n\u2022\u00a0$2.1 million to the St. Tammany Parish School Board for contents and equipment located in their elementary and high schools.\u00a0 The school buildings sustained high wind and flood damage resulting from Hurricane Katrina.\n\u2022\u00a0$1.7 million to the Roman Catholic Church/Archdiocese of New Orleans for the replacement of the St. Raphael School Cafeteria/Classroom Building. The campus buildings were inundated with over eight feet of floodwater that caused significant damage during Hurricane Katrina.\n\u2022\u00a0$1.2 million to the New Orleans City Park Bayou Oaks Golf Clubhouse. Due to high winds and extensive flooding from Hurricane Katrina, the facility incurred four weeks of water inundation.\n\u2022\u00a0$1.1 million to the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) to demolish 181 housing units damaged during Hurricane Katrina. High winds, flooding and rain intrusion from Hurricane Katrina severely damaged these housing units at the Christopher Park Homes housing development in Algiers owned by the HANO.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/reps-richmond-conyers-nadler-and-scott-lead-letter-calling-investigation-several", "Reps. Richmond, Conyers, Nadler, and Scott Lead Letter Calling for Investigation into Several Louisiana Prison Facilities", "2013-07-12", "2013", "2013-07", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02), member of the House Judiciary Committee, sent a letter to the Department of Justice\u2019s Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Thomas Perez calling for investigations into the alarming conditions in several Louisiana state prison facilities along with Congressman John Conyers, Jr. (D-Mich.), Ranking Member of the full House Judiciary Committee, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice and Congressman Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott (D-Va.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.\u00a0\nThe Members specifically expressed deep concern that the Louisiana Department of Corrections has, \u201cengaged in a pattern or practice of violations of the United States Constitution and federal law in its use of such confinement and detention practices.\u201d In the letter the Representatives urge the Attorney General to begin an investigation into the use of solitary confinement, and other troubling detention practices, in numerous Louisiana prison facilities, especially in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, Louisiana.  \n\t\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n  \n\tThe full version of the letter transmitted to the Department of Justice can be found here:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-scalise-cassidy-pass-amendment-house-floor-ensuring-funding-coastal", "Richmond, Scalise, Cassidy Pass Amendment on House Floor Ensuring Funding for Coastal Restoration Projects", "2013-07-10", "2013", "2013-07", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressmen Cedric Richmond, Steve Scalise, and Bill Cassidy today spearheaded an effort to ensure critical funding for coastal restoration projects in Louisiana. The amendment to the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill passed unanimously.\n\u201cI am extremely proud that my colleagues in the House supported us today in the fight to restore Louisiana\u2019s wetlands,\u201d Richmond said. \u201cThe House of Representatives spoke in a rare, bipartisan fashion that the restoration of Louisiana\u2019s coastline is a national priority. The $2 million in funding ensures that Louisiana will be able to move forward with critical restoration projects that will protect our citizens from hurricanes and flooding.\u201d\n\u201cJumpstarting the Louisiana Coastal Area plan is another vital piece in our efforts to restore our wetlands and enhance our hurricane protection, and I\u2019m proud to lead this effort with my fellow Louisiana colleagues to ensure that coastal restoration remains a national priority,\u201d Scalise said.\u00a0 \u201cLouisiana is only as healthy as her vibrant coast, which is vital to flood protection, and to our Gulf ecosystems and communities.\u00a0 We must aggressively take action to reverse decades of coastal erosion before it\u2019s too late, and this amendment moves the ball forward while keeping the spotlight on the national importance of Louisiana coast.\u201d\n\u201cLouisiana loses 20 miles a year off our coast. We have lost a size of land equivalent to the entire state of Rhode Island after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck our coast in 2005. This deficit neutral amendment supports coastal restoration which maintains our energy infrastructure, helps protect homes and communities from flooding, and preserves our natural estuaries and wildlife,\u201d Cassidy said. \u201cMost importantly, it helps protect the livelihood of the many Americans who work to provide the energy and seafood for our nation\u2019s consumption.\u201d\nA copy of the Amendment can be found here.\nClick to watch Scalise, Richmond, and Cassidy discuss this amendment on the House floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/richmond-and-landrieu-announce-157-million-recovery-grants-st-bernard-st-john-baptist", "Richmond and Landrieu Announce $15.7 Million In Recovery Grants for St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, Orleans Parish", "2013-06-28", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014.,\u00a0 U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond and Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La,\u00a0 today announced $15.7 million in disaster recovery grants related to Hurricanes Katrina and Isaac for the New Orleans area. Funds are provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation programs.\n\u201cThe work we are doing to recover from these disasters ensures we are better prepared for and protected from tomorrow\u2019s storms,\u201d Sen. Landrieu said.\u00a0 \u201cMany of the facilities that will benefit from today\u2019s grants will be reinforced to protect our communities and provide peace of mind for our residents and businesses.\u201d\n\u201cThe $3.3 million in grant funding announced today represents hope and progress for the communities on the Gulf Coast that are still struggling to rebuild and recover after Hurricane Isaac,\u201d Congressman Richmond said. \u201cWith each new grant, Louisianans get closer to our goal of economic growth and prosperity.\u00a0 I am committed to working with FEMA to ensure our coastal communities achieve full recovery.\u201d\nToday\u2019s grants include:\n\u2022\u00a0$4.4 million to Facility Planning and Control to replace a building at Nunez Community College in St. Bernard Parish damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina. The building hosts computer labs, administration and teaching offices, student government offices and commercial kitchen and dining. The new building will feature three air units on the rooftop to prevent flood damage.\n\u2022\u00a0$1.6 million to Facility Planning and Control for the Post Engineer Complex at the Jackson Barracks in St. Bernard Parish damaged as a result of Hurricane Katrina. The barracks are operated by a division of the National Guard, the Louisiana Military Department.\n\u2022\u00a0$3.3 million to St. John the Baptist Parish School Board to mitigate Lake Ponchartrain Elementary School from future flood damage after Hurricane Isaac. The project will construct a steel sheet pile floodwall around the building. The wall includes sewer backflow preventers and storm drain backflow preventers.\n\u2022\u00a0$5.4 million to the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board to replace damaged water lines in the Lakeview neighborhood as a result of Hurricane Katrina.\n\u2022\u00a0$1 million to LSU Health Care, Services Division/Medical Center for Louisiana for leasing costs while its facility damaged by Hurricane Katrina is under construction. The Diabetes Clinic, Eye Clinic, Oncology Clinic, Tumor Registry and Medical Records departments have relocated to continue providing medical services to the community.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-lauds-recommendation-kenneth-polite-jr-us-attorney-eastern-district", "Rep. Richmond Lauds Recommendation of Kenneth Polite Jr. as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana", "2013-06-27", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued the following statement in support of the recommendation of Kenneth Polite Jr. as U.S. Attorney for Eastern District of Louisiana:\n\u201cI fully support today\u2019s recommendation and I am confident that, if nominated and confirmed, Kenneth is up to the task before him as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana.\u00a0 Kenneth is a bright young man who has been educated at some of the country\u2019s top educational institutions.\u00a0 In addition to his stellar academic preparation, he also has enjoyed a very productive legal career, including a stint as Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York\u2014one of the most intense assignments in the country.\u00a0 In the midst of his academic and professional successes he has remained committed to the community he was born and raised in, the city of New Orleans.\u00a0 For some time, I have stressed the importance of finding someone who can restore integrity to the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office so that it can again gain the public\u2019s trust.\u00a0 In Kenneth I think we have found that person.\nKenneth represents the best of a new generation of leaders poised to lead our region and state forward.\u00a0 If confirmed, he would become U.S. Attorney close to the same age our state\u2019s chief executive assumed his current role.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-announces-funding-move-west-shore-levee-forward", "Rep. Richmond Announces Funding to Move West Shore Levee Forward", "2013-06-26", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) confirmed that it was fully funding the West Shore Hurricane Protection Project through completion of the study phase:\n\u201cSince coming to Congress, I have been working to move the West Shore Levee Project forward,\u201d said Rep. Cedric Richmond. \u201cHurricane Isaac showed how vulnerable the River Parishes are to storm flooding, and since then I have pushed the Administration to make West Shore priority number one. \u00a0Today\u2019s announcement means we have the money to complete the study, a pivotal step toward construction.\u201d\nRep. Richmond held a conference call in April with the Corps\u2019 highest ranking civilian leader to urge her to allocate the full amount necessary to complete the West Shore Levee study. In May, Rep. Richmond held a town hall in St. John the Baptist Parish where the local Corps officials announced that the Corps had requested the money necessary to complete this study. In June, Rep. Richmond sent a letter with Senator Mary Landrieu to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget urging it to approve the Corps request for funding for West Shore. \nRep. Richmond authored H.R. 1769, the Recognizing the National Benefits of Flood Protection Act of 2013, to require the Corps to calculate the national benefits of proposed flood protection projects such as the West Shore Hurricane Protection project.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-mourns-passing-rev-john-c-raphael-jr", "Rep. Richmond Mourns the Passing of Rev. John C. Raphael Jr.", "2013-06-26", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after learning of the loss of Rev. John C. Raphael Jr.:\n\u201cMy thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Rev. John C. Raphael, Jr.\u00a0 They, the parishioners of New Hope Baptist Church, and all the citizens of New Orleans have lost a truly special man who dedicated his life to improving the community.\u00a0 Rev. Raphael was keenly aware of the awful toll of violence and was committed to doing everything he could to bring about peace on our streets.\u00a0 The work he did throughout his life\u2014as a community leader, a 15-year veteran of the New Orleans Police Department, and pastor of New Hope Baptist Church\u2014stands as a testament to his dedication. Those who interfaced with any of his programs, including Yes We Care or the Faith Responders, know first-hand the difference he made in the lives of those he touched.\u00a0 While he did not live to see his dream of a city without violence realized, his efforts brought us closer to that dream.\u00a0 His impact will continue to be felt and he will be deeply missed by all of us who share his goal of a peaceful community.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-responds-supreme-court-ruling-shelby-county-v-holder", "Rep. Richmond Responds to Supreme Court Ruling on Shelby County v. Holder", "2013-06-26", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement in response to the recent Supreme Court ruling on Shelby County v. Holder:\n\"I am terribly disturbed and disappointed by the Supreme Court\u2019s ruling regarding the constitutionality of section 4 of the Voting Rights Act. This decision sets us back as a nation almost 50 years. The legislators at the Supreme Court took it upon themselves to disregard the will of the American people and enable these previously covered jurisdictions to impede and discourage minorities from voting in the future. Despite our gains as a country to overcome prejudice, discrimination and racial animus are still legitimate problems in our society, especially for states in the South. It saddens me that the current composition of Congress does not lend itself to confidence in being able to fix this issue in the near term, thus there will be no protection for voters in the upcoming election cycle.\u201d  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tThis decision is an outright smack in the face to those who fought and gave their lives for the sacred right to vote. It disregards all evidence of discrimination presented in the lead up to the 2006 re-authorization and the evidence that we saw as recently as the 2012 election cycle.\u201d\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-introduces-bill-support-small-business-owners", "Rep. Richmond Introduces Bill to Support Small Business Owners", "2013-06-20", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) today introduced the Community Lending and Small Business Jobs Act of 2013 to provide much-needed support to our nation\u2019s small firms. The bill seeks to target and address the needs of small firms, especially microenterprises, minority-owned businesses and businesses owned by young people.\n\u201cSmall businesses are the lifeline of our nation\u2019s economy and it is vital that we provide the necessary resources to strengthen and support them,\u201d Congressman Cedric Richmond said. \u201cI am introducing the Community Lending and Small Business Jobs Act of 2013 to provide much-needed support to our nation\u2019s small firms as the economy continues the long climb back to historic levels of growth and employment. As job creators, young entrepreneurs and owners of micro enterprises are foundational anchors in our communities. They stabilize the local tax base in communities that are often underserved which in turn, stabilizes local investments in our schools, hospitals, and public safety. Our country is truly defined by the measure that they are able to succeed.\u201d\nThe Community Lending and Small Business Jobs Act of 2013:\n Provides extensive resources at the SBA and at the U.S. Treasury to help small firms access small business policy assistance, including: capital, contracting and counseling opportunities.\u00a0\n\tMakes it easier for microenterprises to access the training and services necessary to grow and prosper by streamlining government programs through the creation of a microenterprise coordinator at the Small Business Administration (SBA).\n\tCreates an Office of Youth Entrepreneurship at the SBA to promote and invest in our young innovators. The Office would work with private sector stakeholders to invest in technical assistance and entrepreneurial education for Americans under 25 years of age who wish to start a business. It also requires the Department of Education to recommend legislation to Congress on implementing a loan forgiveness program for young entrepreneurs.\n\tCalls for The CDFI Fund to invest in Community Development Financial Institutions for the purposes of improving economic outcomes for underserved families and small businesses across America. Providing the CDFI Fund with a robust capital infusion will make efficient use of taxpayer dollars by leveraging federal investment for the purpose of small business lending by a ratio of 15 to 1.The CDFI Fund is well placed to make careful, targeted investments in businesses that will help them create jobs. The funds for this capital infusion will come from amounts repaid to the Small Business Lending Fund, established by Congress as a part of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010\n Cosponsors of the Community Lending and Small Business Jobs Act of 2013 include: Reps. Corrine Brown (FL-5), Donald Payne Jr. (NJ-10), Tony Cardenas (CA-29),\u00a0Sheila Jackson-Lee (TX-18), Andre Carson (IN-7), William Enyart (IL-12), Bennie Thompson (MS-2), Judy Chu (CA-27), Lacy Clay (MO-1), Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-09) and John Lewis (GA-05).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-mourns-passing-rev-zebadee-bridges-sr", "Rep. Richmond Mourns the Passing of Rev. Zebadee Bridges, Sr.", "2013-06-20", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after learning of the loss of Rev. Zebadee Bridges, Sr.:\n\u201cI was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Rev. Zebadee Bridges, Sr. During his forty-five years of service as the pastor of The Asia Baptist Church and as a member of the Mayor\u2019s Human Relations Committee, Reverend Bridges was a courageous leader and fierce advocate for all that was just and right. He was a man with a big heart for service to his God, his church, and his community.\u00a0 My thoughts and prayers are with Reverend Bridges\u2019 family, his former parishioners and the many New Orleanians who were touched by his commitment to the advancement of this great city and its most vulnerable residents. Reverend Bridges will continue to be revered as a leader in our community. \u00a0He will be sorely missed.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-responds-geismar-explosion", "Rep. Richmond Responds to Geismar Explosion", "2013-06-13", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.- Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released a statement following the explosion that occurred at the Williams Olefins plant near Geismar, LA this morning:\n\u201cMy thoughts and prayers are with the employees who were working at Williams Olefins plant, especially to the family of the one confirmed fatality and those who have sustained injuries. I am grateful for Louisiana\u2019s first responders who are placing themselves in harm\u2019s way to preserve the safety and security of the nearby communities and am committed to working with federal and state officials to investigate what caused this terrible incident.\u201d\n\u201cThe oil and gas industry plays a vital role in supporting our domestic production and our nation\u2019s economy. Williams Olefin\u2019s Geismar plant makes 1.3 billion pounds of ethylene and 90 million pounds of polymer grade propylene annually and that underscores the importance of ensuring that these employees, and all of our workers in the oil and gas industry, are afforded a safe and secure work environment.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-supports-bipartisan-flood-insurance-amendment", "Rep. Richmond Supports Bipartisan Flood Insurance Amendment", "2013-06-05", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement prior to debate on the FY14 Homeland Security Appropriations amendment offered today by Congressman Bill Cassidy (LA-06), Congressman Richmond (LA-02), Congresswoman Waters (CA-43), and other members of Congress:\n\u201cA few weeks ago, I introduced the Flood Insurance Implementation Reform Act of 2013. Today, I am pleased to join my colleagues in supporting this amendment which further echoes the need to protect homeowners and prevent steep increases to flood insurance rates from burdening Louisiana residents,\u201d Congressman Richmond said. \u201cThe fact that the entire Louisiana congressional delegation has united behind a single bill shows how important it is to protect our constituents from the risks associated with flood insurance affordability. This bipartisan amendment is a step in the right direction and reflects our commitment to long-term flood insurance reform.\u201d\n\u00a0\u00a0On May 23, 2013, Rep. Richmond (LA-02), a member on the Committee on Homeland Security, led the charge to slow down flood insurance rate increases by introducing the Flood Insurance Implementation Reform Act of 2013. The legislation calls for improvements to the National Flood Insurance Program by ensuring that the implementation of new rates do not burden homeowners or slow the recovery of the housing market. He successfully engaged Rep. Maxine Waters(CA-43), original \u00a0author of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, and is proud to have the support of the entire Louisiana delegation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/reps-richmond-and-murphy-announce-formation-bipartisan-disaster-relief-caucus", "Reps. Richmond and Murphy Announce Formation of Bipartisan Disaster Relief Caucus", "2013-06-04", "2013", "2013-06", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Coinciding with the start of hurricane season and in the wake of devastating tornadoes, U.S. Representatives Cedric L. Richmond and Patrick E. Murphy today announced the formation of the bipartisan Disaster Relief Caucus. Joining the representatives are Reps. Peter King (R-NY) and Kay Granger (R-TX).\u00a0 The bipartisan Disaster Relief Caucus will facilitate policy discussions to promote more organized, streamlined, and timely responses to natural disasters.\n\u201cAs someone who has witnessed the devastation of hurricanes firsthand, I am extremely pleased to join my colleagues in establishing the Disaster Relief Caucus to ensure that our communities are better prepared and protected,\u201d said Congressman Richmond. \u00a0\u201cThe founding of a caucus that addresses the increasing threat of natural disasters is critical as we work to rebuild our communities in the aftermath of hurricanes and tornadoes. It is vital that we unite in a common effort to proactively advocate for stronger policies, better preparation, and more effective responsiveness at the onset and after a disaster strikes.\u201d\n\"With the start of what is predicted to be an active hurricane season and after witnessing the tragedies caused by recent tornadoes, wildfires in California, and with the northeast still recovering from Superstorm Sandy, we are reminded that disasters can strike in any community,\" said Rep. Murphy.\u00a0 \"Having lived in Florida my entire life, I have witnessed firsthand the impact these disasters can have, especially when politics tie up response efforts.\u00a0 That is why I am proud to join my colleagues Reps. King, Richmond, and Granger in announcing the formation of the Disaster Relief Caucus to improve the effectiveness of disaster preparedness and response efforts.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-and-louisiana-delegation-introduce-flood-insurance-legislation", "Rep. Richmond and Louisiana Delegation Introduce Flood Insurance Legislation", "2013-05-23", "2013", "2013-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02), along with Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) and Members of the Louisiana delegation, introduced The Flood Insurance Implementation Reform Act of 2013. This bipartisan legislation will improve the National Flood Insurance Program by ensuring that the implementation of new rates do not burden homeowners or slow the recovery of our housing market.\n\u201cA consistent, affordable flood insurance program is critical to the U.S. economy, especially for areas recovering from recent flooding,\u201d said Rep. Richmond \u201cThe Flood Insurance Implementation Reform Act delays certain provisions of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 to make sure flood insurance rates don\u2019t burden homeowners and home sales can move forward. The bill also makes sure FEMA is working with local communities to draft the\u00a0most accurate flood maps possible \u2013 a fix that is sorely needed for many Louisiana communities. \u00a0I am extremely proud to work with Representative Waters on such important legislation that will help so many homeowners across the country.\u201d\nOriginal cosponsors include: Congressman Steve Scalise (LA-01), Congressman Bill Cassidy (LA-06), Congressman Rodney Alexander (LA-05), Congressman Charles Boustany (LA-03), Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06).\n  \n\t\u201cSince FEMA clearly is not ready to enact Biggert-Waters in a way that is fair and affordable for families in Southeast Louisiana, I\u2019m proud to help lead the charge to delay the implementation of this Act as we work to fix these flawed changes to ensure the affordability and solvency of the flood insurance program for current and future generations,\u201d said Rep. Scalise. \u201cLouisiana families deserve a clear and full understanding of the upcoming NFIP changes and FEMA's inability to provide this information has jeopardized the viability of the entire program.\u201d\n\u201cIn April, I sent a letter to FEMA Administrator Fugate demanding transparency from FEMA. Today, along with Representative Richmond, I\u2019m co-sponsoring bi-partisan legislation which would codify that request into law and allow for enough time for Congress and FEMA to ensure flood insurance rates remain reasonable,\u201d said Rep. Cassidy.\u00a0\u201cWhile these are important initial steps, much more needs to be done to protect the homeowners of Louisiana. To that end, I will be working with Leadership and the Chairman of the relevant committees to develop a comprehensive long-term strategy to accomplish flood insurance reform.\u201d\n\u201cThis bill will protect countless homeowners from sudden, devastating hikes to flood insurance premiums, and will provide other common-sense clarifications to the Biggert-Waters Food Insurance Reform Act,\u201d said Rep. Alexander.\u00a0 \u201cI am proud to join the other sponsors of this legislation, and urge prompt consideration by the House, so unnecessary hardships on many households and communities are averted.\u201d\nThe Flood Insurance Implementation Reform Act of 2013 would:\n Delay the \u201csale requirement\u201d in Sec 205 (g)(2) for five years allowing homes to be bought and sold without rate increases. *The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 directed FEMA to charge actuarial rates to new home buyers. \u00a0This has had an adverse effect on real estate markets, as sellers want to keep their existing rates and buyers don\u2019t want to pay new, higher rates. Under this bill, new home buyers would keep the rate of the previous owner.\n  Delay increases to grandfathered rates under Sec 207 for three years *Section 207 of BW12 directs FEMA to increase rates over a five year period on any community that receives a revised or new flood map. \u00a0The bill would delay implementation of Sec 207 for three years, allowing FEMA and Congress the opportunity ensure the affordability of this provision.\n  Eliminate the 50% cap on state and local contributions, encouraging local investment in flood mitigation measures. *Currently, while federal expenditures on these activities are counted toward a community\u2019s eligibility for these reductions, there is a cap on the amount of state and local funds that can be included in this calculation.\n  Allow FEMA to use other money in their budget to complete the currently required flood insurance affordability study and require that they notify Congress within 60 days of an alternative method of gathering this data. * Currently, The Biggert-Waters Food Insurance Reform Act of 2012 directs FEMA and the National Academy of Sciences to complete a study of the affordability of flood insurance nine months after enactment of the law. \n  Require FEMA to account for non-structural flood mitigation features in Flood Insurance Rate Maps. It would also require FEMA to work with states and local communities and property owners to identify these features. *Currently FEMA only acknowledges levees on flood maps that provide a 100 year level of flood protection. While FEMA is currently drafting rules for how non-accredited (below 100 year protection) levees should be included in flood maps, they don\u2019t fully account for non-structural flood mitigation features like forests, marshland and other natural features. \n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-praises-passage-helping-heroes-fly-act", "Rep. Richmond Praises Passage of Helping Heroes Fly Act", "2013-05-21", "2013", "2013-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. -Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) released the following statement after passage of the Helping Heroes Fly Act which he cosponsored in March with Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02). The bill passed unanimously in the House of Representatives today 413-0:\n\u00a0\u201cI am extremely pleased with the passage of the Helping Heroes Fly Act. This is a major victory in our efforts to honor our veterans and active duty service men and women who sustained permanent injuries while protecting our country,\u201d said Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02).\u00a0 \u201cToday the House of Representatives sent a strong message that we are committed to honoring their sacrifice and will remain dedicated to easing the burden associated with security screening.\u201d\n\u00a0\u00a0On March 22, 2013, Rep. Richmond (LA-02), ranking member on the Committee on Homeland Security\u2019s Transportation Security Subcommittee and Rep. Gabbard (HI-02), introduced H.R. 1344, The Helping Heroes Fly Act, which requires TSA to develop and implement protocols to expedite the screening process for our nation\u2019s injured and disabled heroes and to report to Congress on the progress it has made.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/reps-richmond-and-grimm-call-additional-harbor-maintenance-trust-fund-investment", "Reps. Richmond and Grimm Call for Additional Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund Investment", "2013-05-20", "2013", "2013-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC - Today, U.S. Representatives Cedric Richmond (LA-02) and Michael G. Grimm (NY-11) led twenty-five U.S. Representatives in submitting the following letter to Sylvia Mathews Burwell, Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The letter was sent in response to a recent policy statement that questioned the additional investment of Harbor Maintenance Tax revenues as called for in S. 601, the Water Resources Development Act of 2013.\nEarlier this year, Rep. Richmond formed the Congressional Maritime Caucus along with Rep. Grimm to bring attention to the needs of the maritime industry. The Caucus works to raise awareness among members of Congress on a broad range of maritime-related topics with the goal of advocating for issues that impact the U.S. economy.\nCongressman Richmond released the following letter:\nMay 20, 2013\n\u00a0\nSylvia Mathews Burwell  \n\tDirector  \n\tThe Office of Management and Budget  \n\t725 17th Street, NW  \n\tWashington, DC 20503\nDear Director Burwell,\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We write in response to the Statement of Administration Policy (SAP) recently issued for S. 601, the Water Resources Development Act of 2013. \u00a0As Representatives from states that rely on our waterways to transport cargo to and from domestic and international markets, we understand the need to adequately dredge and maintain our nation\u2019s shipping channels.\u00a0 \u00a0We are concerned with the Administration\u2019s reluctance to fully allocate the Harbor Maintenance Tax for its intended purposes.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Shippers have paid billions of tax dollars into the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) specifically for the purpose of keeping channels dredged to authorized dimensions (width and depth). The HMTF is estimated to have a surplus of $8.09 billion at the start of Fiscal Year 2014.\u00a0 Unfortunately, much of this funding has been siphoned off for other uses and, as a result, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) estimates that the nation\u2019s busiest ports are dredged to authorized dimensions less than 35% of the time. \u00a0This increases the cost of shipping, as vessels are forced to carry less cargo in order to reduce their draft. Inadequate channel maintenance also increases the risk of a ship grounding or collision, possibly resulting in a pollution event.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In January 2010, President Obama announced his intent to double exports by 2015. By letter dated March 11, 2011, the President's Export Council identified the need for increased investments in port infrastructure and channel maintenance in order to maximize exports.\u00a0 The President reiterated his support for \u201cmodern ports to move our goods\u201d in his 2013 State of the Union address.\u00a0 \u00a0However, without proper maintenance of these shipping super-highways, we are concerned that the goal of doubling trade by 2015 will become an impossible promise to keep. \u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It has been well documented that the maintenance of deep-draft channels offers strong return on investment to the taxpayer. Numerous studies have found that each foot of lost depth increases the cost to ship those goods. This increase unfairly penalizes those already paying into the HMTF; makes U.S. products shipped overseas more costly and less competitive; and increases the cost of products for American consumers.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In addition, the United States is not doing enough to take advantage of the Panama Canal expansion.\u00a0 The country of Panama has financed nearly $6 billion in infrastructure improvements so that the canal can be utilized by ships with draft of 50 feet.\u00a0 Unfortunately, there isn\u2019t a single port in the Gulf of Mexico and only a handful on the East Coast that can accept the larger vessels that will be traveling through the expanded Panama Canal.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We understand that the current fiscal environment makes it very difficult to maintain federally regulated channels.\u00a0 However, we must reemphasize the importance of waterways to local and national economies and we look forward to working closely with you to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to maintain America\u2019s trade super-highways.\nView signed letter here.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-announces-141-million-fema-grants", "Rep. Richmond Announces $1.41 Million in FEMA Grants", "2013-05-17", "2013", "2013-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) announced $1.41 million in federal grants to repair damage related to Hurricane Isaac.\u00a0 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced grants that will be directed to the state of Louisiana for measures undertaken to respond to Hurricane Isaac. Additionally, funding was allocated directly to St. John the Baptist Parish School Board.\n\u201cToday\u2019s grants signify continued progress in Louisiana\u2019s recovery efforts. Every day we take greater steps to restore our way of life,\u201d said Rep. Richmond.\nFEMA grants announced today include:\n $1.41 million to St John the Baptist School Board for Emergency Protective Measures for the cleaning of area schools\n \u00a0\u201cI am committed to working with FEMA to ensure that they remain dedicated to helping us rebuild all that was lost during Hurricane Isaac.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-and-sen-landrieu-announce-210-tax-credit-awards-community-development-la", "Rep. Richmond and Sen. Landrieu Announce $210M In Tax Credit Awards for Community Development In LA.", "2013-05-16", "2013", "2013-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "NEW ORLEANS \u2013 U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., and U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond, D-La., today announced $210 million in New Market Tax Credit (NMTC) awards for four Louisiana community development entities (CDEs) that are committed to financing businesses and economic development in the state. The NMTCs will be marketed to investors to encourage private sector investment in communities facing economic difficulties.\n\u201cThese credits have a proven record of positively impacting low-income neighborhoods in Louisiana by bringing in much needed investment. They help create jobs and spur economic growth by empowering community development groups to support important local projects,\u201d Sen. Landrieu said.\n\u201cThis program demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships and offers investment incentives which, in turn, are leveraged to create jobs and rejuvenate our neighborhoods,\u201d Rep. Richmond said. \u201cI introduced the Louisiana version of the New Markets Tax Credit when I was a State Representative back in 2005, and I will continue to be\u00a0a strong supporter and advocate for programs like New Markets Tax Credits because of its obvious economic benefits.\u201d\nThe NMTC program allows taxpayers to obtain a credit against federal income taxes in exchange for making qualified equity investments in low-income communities through CDEs. These CDEs offer the tax credits to investors in exchange for stock or a capital interest in the CDE. All the qualified equity investment is used to help finance community development projects in low-income communities to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.\u00a0 Since the first allocations were awarded in 2003, the NMTC program has generated $45 billion in capital investment in businesses and economic development projects in low-income communities.\u00a0\nThe following Louisiana CDEs are receiving awards:\n\u00a0\n $75 million to Advantage Capital Community Development Fund in New Orleans. The fund was established to bring professionally managed risk capital to small and medium-sized operating (non-real estate) businesses in low income communities. The fund seeks communities with the potential to transform through explosive growth and job creation but lack start-up or expansion capital.\n \u00a0\n $50 million to First NBC Community Development Fund (FNBC) in New Orleans. FNBC will use the funds to make loans to operating businesses and redevelopment projects in the low-income communities of the New Orleans Metropolitan Area.\n \u00a0\n $45 million to Whitney New Markets Fund in New Orleans to invest in low-income communities within its five state geographic footprint. Targeted projects include assisting with ongoing disaster recovery along the Gulf Coast, supporting community facilities that provide goods and services, and operating businesses that create quality jobs.\n \u00a0\n $40 million to Stonehenge Community Development in Baton Rouge. Stonehenge targets non-real estate projects that have a direct economic impact on a minority community. Targeted projects also include non-profits that provide social services to the minority community or provide for economic development prospects in targeted minority census tracts.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-announces-37-million-recovery-grants", "Rep. Richmond Announces $37 Million in Recovery Grants", "2013-05-07", "2013", "2013-05", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) announced over $37 million in federal grants to repair damage related to Hurricanes Katrina and Isaac.\u00a0The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced grants that will be directed to St. John the Baptist, Jefferson and Orleans Parishes.\n\u201cLouisiana steadily continues to rebuild in the aftermath of natural disasters that have indeed threatened every aspect of our way of life,\u201d said Rep. Richmond.\u00a0 \u201cAt a town hall meeting last week in La Place, my constituents were deeply concerned about the funding status for essential infrastructure that is still in need of full repair.\u00a0 Funding announced today will help us stabilize infrastructure for public safety, schools and hospitals. I remain committed to working with FEMA to continue our recovery efforts. Each grant received brings us closer to our goal of full recovery.\u201d\nFEMA grants announced today include:\n $26 million to the City of New Orleans for a new, approximately 117,880 square foot Juvenile Justice Center to replace the Youth Study Center that was damaged in the storm and will be subsequently demolished\n\t$1 million to repair flooding damage to the St. John High School\u2019s gymnasium/cafeteria\n\t$2 million to repair flooding damage to the St. John High School\u2019s main building\n\t$2.2 million in funding to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff\u2019s Department for emergency protective measures, including paying overtime owed to the 1,200 people who worked to ensure the health and safety of the public during the storm\n\t$1.9 million to the Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriff\u2019s office to replace city property in five facilities that were damaged by the hurricane\n\t$2 million to the Louisiana State University Medical Center to make up for unbudgeted funds spent by the hospital to ensure they could provide critical health care services during the hurricane\n\t$2.3 million to the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board to replace disaster-damaged water lines in the Audubon neighborhood of New Orleans\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-introduces-flood-protection-legislation", "Rep. Richmond Introduces Flood Protection Legislation", "2013-04-26", "2013", "2013-04", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) introduced the Recognizing the National Benefits of Flood Protection Act of 2013, HR-1769. The bill would require the Army Corps of Engineers to calculate the national benefits of proposed flood protection projects.\n\u201cTo secure funding for flood protection in this tight fiscal climate, the Corps must understand how important Louisiana\u2019s most endangered communities are to the national economy,\u201d said Rep. Cedric Richmond. \u201cThere are a number of pending flood protection projects that would protect billions of dollars in infrastructure, including oil refineries and the homes of thousands of energy workers. When a hurricane threatens, workers are forced to evacuate their homes, refineries must shutdown, and as a result, gasoline prices jump nationwide. My bill makes sure the Corps understands the benefits the state of Louisiana provides to the U.S. economy.\u201d\nIn addition, the Recognizing the National Benefits of Flood Protection Act:\n Creates an appeals process for non-federal sponsors that disagree with the Corps\u2019 analysis of their project.\u00a0 A panel of economists and flood damage experts would review all evidence and direct the Corps on how to proceed.\n\tDirects the Corps to account for the benefits of evacuation routes that are vital to the public safety and economic stability of the region.\n\tRequires the Corps to give priority to projects that would protect areas that experienced flooding in the last ten years.\n\tDirects the Corps to submit a report to Congress analyzing the connection between Corps of Engineers projects for flood and hurricane damage reduction and the resiliency of maritime and energy infrastructure.\n \u201cAs we saw during Hurricane Isaac, when a hurricane threatens, the price of gasoline spikes \u2013 hurting every American at the pump.\u201d\nThe full bill can be viewed here.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/scalise-richmond-call-fema-work-state-local-officials-flood-insurance-changes", "Richmond, Scalise call on FEMA to work with state, local officials on flood insurance changes", "2013-04-25", "2013", "2013-04", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressmen Steve Scalise and Cedric Richmond today fought back against FEMA\u2019s NFIP premium rate increase misinformation and demanded that FEMA work with state and local officials as it implements changes to the program and new Flood Insurance Rate Maps.\n\u201cAs FEMA develops and implements new flood rate maps, it is critical that they work with state and local officials to ensure that the impact on policy holders is given a high priority,\u201d Scalise said.\u00a0 \u201cIf these premium adjustments are not administered fairly, it could force thousands of Louisiana families to drop their flood insurance, or in some cases, even lose their homes because of the sheer cost of flood insurance.\u00a0 I strongly agree with local officials that FEMA should take into consideration non-federal flood protection systems when determining flood elevations and risk.\u00a0 It is important that Louisiana families have access to a fair and affordable flood insurance program.\u201d\n\u201cFEMA\u2019s recent miscommunication of details regarding their new Flood Insurance Rate Maps was terribly irresponsible and has resulted in devastating consequences for homeowners in my district, especially those residing on the West Bank of St. Charles Parish,\u201d Rep. Cedric Richmond said. \u201cNFIP policy holders have every right to be frustrated, concerned and wary of FEMA\u2019s competence regarding this program. It is vitally important that Louisianans have access to an insurance program at fair and affordable rates. \u00a0I urge Administrator Fugate to look closely at the consequences of FEMA\u2019s actions in this community.\u201d\nIn a letter to FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, Scalise and Richmond specifically asked that FEMA:\n Take into consideration non-federal flood protection systems when determining flood risk.\n\tGive residents a realistic timeline for implementation of new maps and the premium that\u00a0\u00a0 residents can expect to pay over the next five (5) years.\n\tImmediately undertake a sustained public awareness campaign to reconcile misinformation distributed by FEMA thus far.\n The full text of the letter sent by Scalise and Richmond can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-introduces-legislation-holding-army-corps-responsible-gross-negligence", "Rep. Richmond Introduces Legislation Holding Army Corps Responsible for Gross Negligence in the Aftermath of Katrina", "2013-04-19", "2013", "2013-04", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) introduced the Army Corps Accountability Act of 2013.\u00a0\n\u201cThe state of Louisiana and the entire nation will never forget the disastrous impact caused during Hurricane Katrina after the levees broke and flooded the Ninth Ward and St. Bernard Parish,\u201d said Rep. Richmond.\u00a0 \u201cEight years later, these communities are still struggling to pick up the pieces of their lives and we owe them a debt to ensure that this never happens again. The Army Corps of Engineers must be held accountable for its gross negligence and failure to properly operate and maintain the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet. This legislation ensures that the Army Corps can never again hide behind discretionary provisions that ultimately impede our recovery and prevention efforts.\u201d\nIn a 2009 trial, Judge Stanwood Duval, a United States District Court Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana, decided that the Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 gross negligence was the ultimate cause of catastrophic damage in New Orleans\u2019 Ninth Ward and St. Bernard Parish. In March 2012, an Appeals Court initially upheld this lower court decision before reversing itself five months later, ultimately agreeing with the Army Corps\u2019 position that it was protected from liability under the \u201cdiscretionary function\u201d exception from the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) liability.\nKey provisions of the Army Corps Accountability Act of 2013:\n The bill amends the FTCA to specifically remove the Army Corps from the \u201cdiscretionary function\u201d exception to FTCA culpability.\u00a0\n\tMany government activities or inactivity could be typified as \u201cexercising a discretionary function\u201d and would be protected from liability. This bill aims to reassert that the Corps needs to make offended parties whole when its officers or employees have acted in a negligent fashion.\n\tRemoves liability protection under the Federal Flood Control Act.\n\tMakes these reforms retroactive to ensure proper accountability.\n\tIf enacted, would hold the Corps accountable for its tortious actions as intended under the FTCA.\n Filing of Supreme Court Amicus Brief\nOn April 8, 2013, thirteen Members of Congress (four Senators, nine Representatives) filed an Amicus Brief with the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS, the Court) to overturn the appellate court\u2019s decision and support Hurricane Katrina victims impacted by negligent maintenance of the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO). Residents of these impacted neighborhoods and their lawyers have filed a writ of certiorari with the SCOTUS. If granted, the Court will hear the case. Rep. Richmond joined other Members of Congress and Senators in urging the Justices to take up the case to make it clear that Congress intended the FTCA to apply to negligent acts by the Federal government.\nThe full bill can be viewed here.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/sen-landrieu-rep-richmond-mayor-landrieu-announce-27m-sewage-repairs-new-orleans-st", "Sen. Landrieu, Rep. Richmond, Mayor Landrieu Announce $27M For Sewage Repairs In New Orleans, St. Bernard Parish", "2013-04-18", "2013", "2013-04", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond, D-La., and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu today announced $27 million for sewage repairs related to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish. The grants were provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency Public Assistance Program.\n\u201cWe learned important lessons after Hurricane Katrina, including the importance of investing in our infrastructure,\u201d Sen. Landrieu said. \u201cToday\u2019s grants are for a basic service, but one that is critical for the public health and safety of our residents in New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish.\u201d\n\u201cThe funds announced today are essential to the rehabilitation of neighborhoods in New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish,\u201d Rep. Richmond said. \u201cI am committed to working with FEMA to ensure our communities recover from damage sustained by Hurricane Katrina, or any other natural disaster. Repairs to sewerage and water systems are vitally important to our mission to restore every neighborhood in the great state of Louisiana.\u201d\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement of $13.5 million for the replacement of water main lines in the Filmore, West End, St. Roch, Dillard, and Gentilly Woods neighborhoods is critical to ensure safe, reliable drinking water,\u201d Mayor Landrieu said. \u201cNearly eight years after Hurricane Katrina, we are working to close out necessary funding decisions for repairs to damage left by the storm. FEMA continues to be an important partner in our city\u2019s recovery.\u201d\n $13.5 million to the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board for replacement of water main lines, including:\n\t\t$4.1 million for work within the Filmore neighborhood \u00a0\u00a0\n\t\t\t$3.5 million for work within the West End neighborhood \u00a0\u00a0\n\t\t\t$3.4 million for work within the St. Roch Ward neighborhood\n\t\t\t$1.3 million for work within the Dillard neighborhood\n\t\t\t$1.2 million for work within the Gentilly Woods neighborhood\n\t\t\n  $13.5 million to St. Bernard Parish for Hurricane Katrina-related repairs to their sewage collection system. St. Bernard Parish sustained severe wind and flood damage due to Hurricane Katrina, extending to its critical utilities, such as the gravity flow sanitary sewer collection system. Floodwaters entered the buried sewer pipeline system, carrying debris and sediment that had no route of discharge.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://richmond.house.gov/press-release/rep-richmond-introduces-legislation-combat-tax-preparer-fraud", "Rep. Richmond Introduces Legislation to Combat Tax Preparer Fraud", "2013-04-15", "2013", "2013-04", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Cedric Richmond", "R000588", "richmond.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) introduced the Taxpayer Protection and Preparer Fraud Prevention Act of 2013, which implements and enforces policy that would allow the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to certify paid tax preparers and ensure they are competent, of good character and able to render services.\n\u201cIn these challenging economic times, the last thing hardworking Americans need is to be made vulnerable by a tax preparer that is unfit to do the job,\u201d said Rep. Richmond. \u201cThis common sense bill would provide the IRS with tools to ensure consumers are choosing from only the most competent pool of preparers when it is time to file their return.\u201d\nThe Taxpayer Protection and Preparer Fraud Prevention Act would also allow the IRS to create penalties for tax preparers who have been found to be disreputable, incompetent or fraudulent.\nKey provisions of the legislation include:\n Giving the IRS the authority to license or certify tax preparers\n\tRequiring tax preparers to be competent, of good character and able to render services\n\tAllowing penalties for tax preparers that have been found to be disreputable, incompetent or fraudulent\n In January of 2013, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that the IRS did not have the authority to regulate paid tax preparers, removing key requirements such as compliance testing.\u00a0 This, in turn, left taxpayers vulnerable to possible dishonesty, negligence or fraud with little recourse.\n\u201cI am hopeful that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle can come together and recognize the need to institute basic IRS protections,\u201d said Rep. Richmond. \u00a0\u201cThis bill is a long overdue step towards protecting average Americans who shouldn\u2019t have to worry about being defrauded.\u201d\nThe full bill can be viewed here .\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 42, "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": "LA", "p2": "2013"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 42, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=LA&year=2013", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 42, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2013&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "LA", "label": "LA", "count": 42, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2013", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA&year=2013", "results": [{"value": "2013", "label": "2013", "count": 42, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=LA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 159.99889420345426, "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"}