{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"PA\" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-passing-of-kernie-anderson", "Casey Statement on Passing of Kernie Anderson", "2014-12-31", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released a statement following the passing of Kernie Anderson.\r\n\u201cThis week my thoughts and prayers are with the Anderson family as they mourn the loss of Kernie Anderson. Kernie is being rightly remembered as a giant of the radio industry who blazed a trail that many follow today. Kernie Anderson was an important voice for the African American community in Philadelphia and throughout the country. He fought vigorously to ensure that millions of Americans who quietly struggle had a voice. His role in helping to found Philadelphia\u2019s Unity Day will serve as an enduring legacy of the kind of community he worked to create.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-receives-response-from-epa-following-letter-on-potential-keystone-landfill-expansion-in-dunmore", "Casey Receives Response from EPA Following Letter on Potential Keystone Landfill Expansion in Dunmore", "2014-12-24", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has received a response from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) following his letter regarding the potential expansion of the Keystone Landfill in Dunmore. In his letter to the EPA, Casey asked the agency to address concerns raised by his constituents and conduct the appropriate oversight should the proposal fall within the federal government\u2019s jurisdiction.\r\n\u201cI will continue to monitor this issue closely and urge the EPA and state agencies to be responsive to concerns raised by residents,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cIt\u2019s critical that EPA continue to examine this issue and conduct any appropriate oversight of the landfill consistent with the agency\u2019s jurisdiction.\u201d\r\nThe full response to Senator Casey is attached. Please note: the names of constituents mentioned in the letter have been redacted in order to protect their privacy.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-ends-2014-with-major-accomplishments-on-behalf-of-pennsylvanians", "Casey Ends 2014 with Major Accomplishments on Behalf of Pennsylvanians", "2014-12-23", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Amid partisan gridlock, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) ended 2014 with significant accomplishments on behalf of Pennsylvanians. Casey secured passage of a landmark law to help the families of children with disabilities save for their long term care through tax-advantaged, 529-style savings accounts. Casey successfully pushed into law measures that bolstered children\u2019s hospitals throughout the state, improved the emergency medical services that are provided to children and strengthened programs to support individuals living with traumatic brain injuries. Casey successfully urged the Obama Administration to invest in job creating projects throughout Pennsylvania. Casey pressed for the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, for justice for coal miners being denied black lung claims and for improvements to the ways colleges are required to report instances of sexual violence on campus. \u00a0\u00a0\r\n\u00a0Casey\u2019s ABLE Act Now Law\r\n\u00a0Since 2009, Senator Casey has championed the ABLE Act, which creates tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. On December 16, 2014, the Senate passed the ABLE Act (76-16) into law, following action by the House of Representatives (404-17) earlier in the month. With its passage, millions of Americans will be able to save for their futures, creating peace of mind for individuals and families across the Nation.\r\nCasey\u2019s Children\u2019s Hospital Graduate Medical Education Support Reauthorization Act Now Law \r\n\u00a0The Children\u2019s Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (CHGME) program provides freestanding children\u2019s hospitals with federal graduate medical education (GME) support similar to the funding that other teaching hospitals receive through Medicare. Casey\u2019s bill reauthorized the program for five years at $300 million a year.\u00a0 The legislation also makes important changes to the program by giving the Secretary authority to include in the program a small number of freestanding children\u2019s hospitals who have been ineligible to participate in the past for technical reasons.\u00a0 The bill allows the Secretary to use a portion of the funds appropriated over $245 million for these children\u2019s hospitals that train pediatric providers and meet the same general qualifications as existing participants but currently do not qualify for Medicare GME or CHGME. The amount of this pool in a given year would be 25% of enacted CHGME funding over $245 million, up to a maximum of $7 million, and hospitals would have to undergo a normal application process. Three Pennsylvania hospitals receive funding through this program.\u00a0\r\nCasey\u2019s Emergency Medical Service for Children Act Now Law \r\nPediatric patients have important physical, developmental, and mental differences from adults.\u00a0 From smaller-sized medical equipment to different dosage requirements for medicine, the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program helps medical professionals meet the unique needs of pediatric patients and provide state of the art emergency medical care for ill and injured children and adolescents.\u00a0 Since the program was created in 1984, pediatric injury-related death rates have been reduced by more than 40 percent.\u00a0\r\nThere are approximately 26,000,000 child and adolescent visits to the Nation\u2019s emergency departments each year.\u00a0 Approximately 90 percent of children requiring emergency care are seen in general hospitals, not in free standing children\u2019s hospitals, with one-quarter to one-third of the patients being seen in hospitals with no separate pediatric ward.\r\nCasey Bill on Traumatic Brain Injuries Now Law\r\nThe Traumatic Brain Injury Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2539) reauthorized the Prevention of Traumatic Brain Injury program and the National Program for Traumatic Brain Injury Surveillance and Registries. The prevention program funds educational programs and materials for health departments, community-based organizations, parents, teachers and coaches; and research into effective prevention strategies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also conducts surveillance work to identify TBI rates of death and rates of hospitalization, and is working to develop pediatric mild TBI guidelines.\r\nS 2539 also reauthorizes the following two grant programs:\r\n \r\nThe State Implementation Partnership Grants fund the development and implementation of statewide systems that ensure access to comprehensive and coordinated TBI services. Since FY 1997, 48 States, 2 Territories and the District of Columbia have received funding under the TBI State Grant Program. There are 20 states currently funded under the TBI State Grant Program with an average grant of $250,000.\r\nThe Protection and Advocacy Grant Program for Individuals with TBI funds 57 states and territories with an average grant amount of $50,000 to prevent abuse and neglect and safeguard the well-being of individuals with TBI living in institutions, nursing homes, jails and prisons and community-based settings. All P&A agencies monitor, investigate, and attempt to remedy adverse conditions in public and private facilities.\r\nS. 2539 also required HHS to develop a Traumatic Brain Injury Coordination Plan, for federal activities with respect to TBI, which shall review existing interagency coordination and identify areas for improvement. Finally, the law requires CDC to conduct a review of the scientific evidence relating to brain injury management in children, identifying ongoing and potential further opportunities for research, and provide to Congress the results of this review within two years.\r\n \r\nInvesting in PA\r\nWestern Pennsylvania\u2019s job-creating waterways infrastructure will see upgrades that have been sought for decades thanks to measures Casey passed in two separate bills: The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) and the end of year tax extenders bill. Additionally the effort to bolster job creation in Southeastern Pennsylvania through the deepening of the Delaware River received significant support following Casey efforts. \u00a0\r\nWater Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA)\r\n \r\nThe final version of WRRDA that was signed into law contained four major pieces of Senator Casey\u2019s RIVER Act:\r\n \r\n \r\nOlmsted Federalization: Permanent Cost-Sharing for the remaining cost of the Olmsted project will be 85% General Fund, 15% Inland Waterways Trust Fund.\r\nDefinition of Major Rehabilitation: increased from current law level of $14 million to $20 million and adjusted annually for inflation.\r\nPrioritization of Projects: This will ensure projects are prioritized based upon risk of failure and economic benefit to the Nation\r\nProject Delivery: New reforms to achieve on-time and on-budget performance.\r\n \r\n \r\nWith the Olmsted cost-share adjustment, it is estimated over $124 million will be freed up for the Lower Mon and other priority projects.\r\nPennsylvania\u2019s locks and dams play a vital role in creating and sustaining jobs and supporting economic growth throughout the country. In Southwestern Pennsylvania alone, over 200,000 jobs rely on the proper functioning of the region\u2019s inland waterways system\r\n \r\nInland Waterways User Fee\r\n \r\nSenator Casey\u2019s bill to increase the inland waterways user fee from 20 cents to 29 cents per gallon was included in the Tax Extenders package which passed into law by a vote of 76 to 16.\r\nThis increase will be matched by general treasury funds and will add an additional estimated $60-80 million annually for lock and dam projects in western Pennsylvania and across the country.\r\nWith a more reliable funding stream the cost for these projects will also be lower, saving taxpayers money.\r\n \r\nDelaware Deepening Project\r\n \r\nSince he has come to the Senate, Senator Casey has helped to secure over $125 million for the project through appropriations. \u00a0\r\nSenator Casey advocated for inclusion of this project in the President\u2019s FY 2015 budget. It received $35 million in the omnibus which represented a significant increase from the $20 million level in FY 2014. The project is over 60% percent complete as of December 2014.\r\nVice President Biden came to visit the project and tour a dredge at Senator Casey\u2019s invitation. During the visit, the Vice President expressed support for completing the project as quickly as possible.\r\nOnce the channel is deepened to forty-five feet, there will be an increase of 2.5 million tons of cargo annually to the Port of Philadelphia, which will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in addition to providing short term jobs in the construction industry which has been hard hit in this economy.\r\n \r\nHelping PA Small Businesses and Fighting for His Constituents \r\nTax Relief for Small Businesses\r\n \r\nSenator Casey has led efforts on the Senate Finance Committee to provide small businesses with tax relief that will allow them to grow their businesses and create jobs.\r\nSenator Casey is the Senate champion for legislation making permanent 15-year depreciation schedule for restaurants and retail establishments, thereby allowing these businesses certainty that they can update their facilities on a reasonable timeline.\r\nSenator Casey also introduced the Small Business tax Certainty and Growth Act, which would permanently extend Section 179 expensing, extend 15-yr depreciation and bonus depreciation by one year, double the cash accounting threshold and increase the start-up deduction.\r\nLegislation extending Section 179, 15-year depreciation and bonus depreciation was passed by Congress in December 2014.\r\n \r\nPreventing Access to Social Security Benefits for War Criminals\r\n \r\nSenator Casey led efforts in the Senate to close a loophole that allowed Nazi war criminals to receive Social Security benefits.\r\nThe Senate passed legislation closing the loophole on December 4, 2014.\u00a0\r\n \r\nNational Guard Counterdrug Centers\r\n \r\nSenator Casey has been a longtime advocate for the National Guard\u2019s Counterdrug Training Centers.\u00a0 He visited the center in Ft. Indiantown Gap in October 2014 and led his colleagues in two bipartisan letters, one to Secretary Hagel and one to the Armed Services Committee leadership, arguing for continued funding of the Centers.\r\nIn July 2014, Senator Casey introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would require the Defense Department to identify a sustainable funding solution for the Centers.\u00a0\r\nThe final NDAA report includes the following language that supports the National Guard counterdrug effort: \u201cWe note the role of the National Guard Counter-drug mission in ensuring the security of the U.S. Homeland. As part of that mission, the National Guard Counter-drug Schools continue to play an important role in training and educating local, state, and federal law enforcement and other entities on counter-drug-related matters. We recognize the benefits of maintaining and supporting the National Guard counterdrug strategy.\u201d\r\n \r\n\u00a0Combatting Hunger for Vulnerable Children \r\n \r\nSenator Casey\u2019s support for The Emergency Feeding Assistance Program (TEFAP), which assists food banks in providing food to people in need, garnered $250 million in additional funding for the program.\u00a0\r\nSenator Casey helped to authorize a Healthy Food Financing Initiative in the Farm Bill, which will help improve access to healthy foods year round, across the nation in underserved areas; and would revitalize communities by developing and renovating stores, generate local tax revenue, create and retain jobs, and bring development to low-income neighborhoods.\r\n \r\nFighting for Justice for PA Coal Miners \u00a0\r\n \r\nFollowing a groundbreaking investigation by leading news organizations into the processing of black lung claims, Casey chaired a hearing to explore the challenges that former coal miners have with this backlogged and broken system. Senator Casey also sent a letter to the Administration calling for additional resources to combat the claims backlog which has left some Pennsylvania residents waiting years for the benefits they desperately need and are owed.\r\nCasey introduced legislation proposing sweeping reforms to the federal program that provides benefits to coal miners suffering from black lung disease to give miners better access to the benefits they deserve.\r\n \r\nCombatting Sexual Violence on College Campuses \u00a0\r\n \r\nThis year the Obama Administration wrote regulations to strengthen reporting standards on college campuses so that instances of sexual violence are reported in a uniform manner and victims are provided with appropriate support. The Administration\u2019s efforts largely emanate from Casey\u2019s Campus SaVE Act which was passed into law as part of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act.\r\n \r\nForeign Policy\r\nPress Freedom Resolution\r\n \r\nSenator Casey introduced S.Res.447, a resolution on global press World Press Freedom Resolution, with Senator Rubio on May 15. It passed the Senate unanimously on July 8.\r\nThe resolution recognizes the dangers that reporters face and reaffirms freedom of the press as a priority for the U.S. government.\r\nIn 2014, Senator Casey wrote three letters to Secretary Kerry on various press freedom issues, including the ongoing detention of American journalist Jason Rezaian in Iran.\r\n \r\nAdvancing Women\u2019s Rights and Empowerment in Afghanistan \r\n \r\nSenator Casey was invited to deliver keynote remarks at the Oslo Symposium on Women\u2019s Rights and Empowerment in Afghanistan on November 23. He emphasized that the rights of Afghan women and girls must be non-negotiable during this critical transition period in Afghanistan.\u00a0\r\nAt the Symposium, Senator Casey met with Afghanistan\u2019s First Lady, Rula Ghani, and other Afghan women leaders to discuss the challenges they are facing.\r\nMuch of the language from Senator Casey\u2019s amendment to promote the safety, security, and rights of Afghanistan\u2019s women and children was included in the final NDAA, especially the section about how the FY14 $25 million carve-out in the Afghan Security Forces Fund should be used to promote the recruitment and retention of women in the ANSF.\r\nThe three key provisions in the NDAA include: prioritize the recruitment and retention of women in the Afghan National Security Forces; support police units that are specially trained to work with female or adolescent victims; ensure the adequate staffing of polling stations by female officers.\r\n \r\nFighting for PA Veterans\r\n21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act and Report\u00a0\r\n \r\nThe 21st Century Veterans Benefits Reform Act was introduced on March 6, 2014 along with the release of the report.\r\nThe report and bill includes three initiatives to make the necessary policy changes to reduce the backlog of veterans\u2019 disability claims. The three main provisions: improving the claims submission process, improve VA Regional Office Practices, requiring the federal government, across-the-board, to make Veteran benefits claims a priority.\r\n \r\nSenate Veterans Backlog Working Group\u00a0\r\n \r\nSenator Casey convened the Veterans Backlog Working Group with Senator Heller on September 9, 2014 to bring the issue of reducing the benefits claims backlog back to the forefront and stressing the importance of the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act.\r\nThe attendees included Senators Blumenthal, Walsh, and Toomey. The VA was represented by Beth McCoy, the Assistant Deputy Undersecretary for Field Operations for the Veterans Benefits Administration and Dave McLenachen, Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Disability Assistance. Most major accredited Veterans Service Organizations were also in attendance, including: Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, The American Legion, Military Officers Association of America, and the American Federation of Government Employees.\r\n \r\nCasey-Heller Letter to Veterans Affairs Committee on the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act\r\n \r\nOn November 10, 2014, Senator Casey sent a letter with Senator Heller to the Veterans Affairs Committee urging the Committee to hold a hearing on the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act\r\n \r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/11-senators-urge-congress-to-preserve-strong-net-neutrality-protections", "11 Senators Urge Congress to Preserve Strong Net Neutrality Protections", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In a letter today, 11 Senators led by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) urged leaders of the 114th Congress to preserve net neutrality principles when considering reforms to the nation\u2019s communications law.\r\n\u201cTo the extent that any Communications Act reforms are considered in the next Congress, those reforms must be fully consistent with and protective of net neutrality principles,\u201d the Senators wrote in the letter to incoming Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senator John Thune, (R-SD), who will take over as chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. \u201cThe FCC can and should take strong action to protect consumers as soon as possible. We would forcefully oppose any reforms that would undermine the FCC\u2019s authority to act to adopt meaningful net neutrality rules to protect consumers.\u201d\r\nThe 11 Senators who signed the letter were: Reid, Cantwell, Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Robert Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Tom Udall (D-NM), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Al Franken (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).\r\nThe Senators laid out four essential elements to net neutrality rules:\r\n \r\nProhibiting fast lanes;\r\nPreventing discrimination against and blocking of lawful content;\r\nProhibiting throttling; and;\r\nIncreasing transparency.\r\n \r\n\u201cA two-tiered Internet that allows Fortune 500 companies to pay for special Internet access imperils the innovation that drives the Internet economy, while leaving slow lanes for the rest of us,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cWe stand with the American people in their desire to keep the Internet open and free. And we stand ready to work with you in ensuring that any reform of our communications laws is consistent with strong net neutrality protections.\u201d\r\nBelow is the full text of the letter.\r\nDear Leader McConnell and Senator Thune,\r\nWe wholeheartedly agree with Senator Thune\u2019s assertion that any action Congress takes to reform our nation\u2019s communications laws must make sense \u201cfor today\u2019s converged, competitive, and Internet-powered world.\u201d Keeping the Internet free and open is essential to this goal. To the extent that any Communications Act reforms are considered in the next Congress, those reforms must be fully consistent with and protective of net neutrality principles. The FCC can and should take strong action to protect consumers as soon as possible. We would forcefully oppose any reforms that would undermine the FCC\u2019s authority to act to adopt meaningful net neutrality rules to protect consumers.\r\nTo be effective, net neutrality rules must provide maximum protection to consumers and maximum flexibility to promote the Internet economy. Such net neutrality rules contain at least four essential elements: they must prohibit fast lanes, prevent discrimination against and blocking of lawful content, prohibit throttling, and increase transparency. We hope the FCC will adopt such rules without delay.\r\nThe Internet has created a $684 billion economic force, accounting for nearly 5 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. For example, between 2007 and 2012, the development and use of applications for smartphones and tablets, created 466,000 high-tech jobs and generated more than $20 billion in annual revenue. We cannot allow Internet service providers to implement practices that threaten this economic force.\r\nA two-tiered Internet that allows Fortune 500 companies to pay for special Internet access imperils the innovation that drives the Internet economy, while leaving slow lanes for the rest of us. This is unacceptable. All consumers and all innovators deserve equal access to an open Internet.\r\nAmericans understand this. When the FCC first sought comments on its net neutrality rules, four million Americans registered their views with the FCC, the highest number on any issue in FCC history. These comments deliver one message overwhelmingly\u2014most are in favor of the strongest net neutrality protections.\r\nWe stand with the American people in their desire to keep the Internet open and free. And we stand ready to work with you in ensuring that any reform of our communications laws is consistent with strong net neutrality protections.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-carper-collins-begich-mccaul-release-gao-report-laying-out-gaps-in-us-emergency-preparedness-opportunities-to-close-capability-gaps-", "Casey, Carper, Collins, Begich, McCaul Release GAO Report Laying Out Gaps In U.S. Emergency Preparedness, Opportunities to Close Capability Gaps", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Co-Chair of the National Security Working Group; Tom Carper (D-DE), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee; Susan Collins (R-ME), former Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee; Mark Begich (D-AK); and Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, released a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report laying out gaps in the nation\u2019s emergency preparedness and identifying opportunities to close capability gaps. The GAO analyzed the federal government\u2019s preparedness for so called \u2018no-notice\u2019 catastrophic disasters which pose one of the greatest challenges to national emergency preparedness. The report finds that steps need to be taken to increase coordination among federal agencies so that federal officials are more consistently carrying out emergency preparedness activities. The Department of Homeland Security said that it will implement GAO\u2019s recommendations, in coordination with other agencies.\r\n\u201cThis report shows that additional steps and better coordination are needed at the federal level to make sure our agencies are prepared to respond to emergencies,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cI\u2019m hopeful that the Administration will use this report to improve current policies and ensure that federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction are working with one another to enhance our nation\u2019s preparedness.\u201d \u00a0\r\n\u201cDisasters can strike at any time and at any place. Whether a disaster is natural or man-made, large or small, our federal government needs to be prepared,\u201d said Chairman Carper. \u201cThis report makes it clear that federal agencies need to do a better job of coordinating and sharing information with each other and providing that information to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Responding to a disaster is a shared responsibility by a number of agencies. While FEMA plays a central role in this effort, it\u2019s crucial that other agencies are prepared and coordinate their response. I will continue to monitor agencies\u2019 progress in implementing the Government Accountability Office\u2019s (GAO) recommendations to improve overall coordination and collaboration. I will also continue to work with our partners at GAO as the agency conducts follow-up work to this report.\u201d\r\n\u201cI am concerned that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has not been tracking the efforts by agencies to address their capability gaps in responding to \"no-notice\u00a0emergencies,\" Senator Collins said. \u201cAs the name implies, these emergencies come with no advance warning and no time to prepare. \u00a0It is vitally important that DHS address the findings of this report to ensure that we are as prepared as we possibly can be for any disaster. \u00a0After observing the poor response at all levels of government to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, especially by FEMA, I led the effort to reshape and improve FEMA's response to emergencies with limited notice.\u00a0 I hope this report will act as a catalyst for similar improvements in the \u2018no-notice\u2019 area.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe Secretary of Homeland Security is the principal federal official responsible for domestic incident management. Yet, according to GAO, cross-government coordination on preparedness efforts between DHS and other federal agencies are insufficient,\u201d said Chairman McCaul. \u201cAs such, there is no way to know just how prepared the whole of our federal government is to respond to a terrorist attack or natural disaster. More than thirteen years after the terrorist attack on 9/11, this is unacceptable. I look forward to working with the Secretary and FEMA Administrator to address GAO's recommendations, including through my committee's efforts to authorize the Department of Homeland Security next year.\"\r\nGAO\u2019s report can be found here: LINK\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 Jennie Westbrook (HSGAC) 202-224-2627 Kevin Kelley (Collins) 202-224-2523 Lauren Claffey (McCaul) 202-226-8477", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-urges-state-department-to-redouble-efforts-to-secure-release-of-journalist-jason-rezaian", "Casey Urges State Department to Redouble Efforts to Secure Release of Journalist Jason Rezaian", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the National Security Working Group and former Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs, urged the State Department to redouble its efforts to secure the release of jailed journalist Jason Rezaian. Rezaian was arrested by Iranian authorities in July and has remained detained for over 137 days. Casey, in a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, called Rezaian\u2019s detention an affront to due process and urged the Administration to work to secure his release. \u00a0This year Senator Casey helped lead a Senate effort to pass a resolution to highlight the importance of press freedom and has previously weighed in with the State Department to urge the Administration to work to secure Rezaian\u2019s release.\r\nCasey wrote, \u201cI respectfully request that you redouble your efforts to secure Rezaian\u2019s release and prioritize his case in your discussions with Iranian officials.\u00a0 Iran\u2019s treatment of Rezaian is not only an affront to due process, but to journalists around the world working in difficult environments. \u201c\r\nThe full text of Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\nThe Honorable John Kerry\r\nSecretary\r\nU.S. Department of State\r\n2201 C Street NW\r\nWashington, DC 20520\r\nDear Secretary Kerry:\r\nI wrote to you over the summer regarding Jason Rezaian, an Iranian-American journalist who was arrested in Tehran with his wife and two others in July.\u00a0 I write to you again with deep concern that the Iranian regime continues to detain Rezaian.\r\nAccording to his family, Rezaian has now been detained for more than 137 days, which I understand is the longest period of time that Iran has held a foreign journalist.\u00a0 Human Rights Watch (HRW) found that Iranian prosecutors \u201chave not allowed the lawyer hired by Rezaian\u2019s family to defend him, to speak with him, or to review his case file.\u201d He is reportedly being held in solitary confinement within the notorious Evin prison, in a section patrolled by Iran\u2019s Revolutionary Guards. We know that the terrible conditions in Evin can take a significant toll on detainees\u2019 health and well-being.\r\nI welcomed your recent statement, in which you expressed the United States\u2019 disappointment and concern regarding Rezaian\u2019s mistreatment at the hands of the Iranian regime.\u00a0 I am particularly concerned that the Iranians are refusing to permit the Swiss, which represent U.S. interests in Tehran, to gain consular access to Rezaian to ensure that he has legal representation and proper medical care.\u00a0 As you stated, Rezaian does not in any way pose a threat to Tehran, which makes the regime\u2019s refusal to grant him bail that much more offensive.\r\nI respectfully request that you redouble your efforts to secure Rezaian\u2019s release and prioritize his case in your discussions with Iranian officials.\u00a0 Iran\u2019s treatment of Rezaian is not only an affront to due process, but to journalists around the world working in difficult environments.\u00a0 As noted in my resolution on global press freedom, S. Res. 447, which passed the U.S. Senate this summer, Iran is one of the most prolific jailers of journalists globally.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nRezaian\u2019s reporting for the Washington Post has been helpful to many in shedding light on one of the most repressive governments in the world.\u00a0 I ask you to unequivocally reject any efforts by the Iranian regime to use him as a pawn in other negotiations and insist that the Iranian regime does not continue to unjustly punish him for his reporting.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/caseys-able-act-becomes-law-with-president-obamas-signature", "Casey’s ABLE Act Becomes Law with President Obama’s Signature", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that his Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act was signed into law this afternoon by President Obama. The bill will allow families who have a child with a disability to save for their long-term care through 529-style savings accounts. The ABLE Act passed the Senate on Tuesday with a final vote of 76-16, and it passed the House last week with a final vote of 404-17. This legislation has been called \u201c\u2026the broadest legislation to help [people with disabilities] in nearly a quarter-century.\u201d\r\nBelow is a statement from Senator Casey:\r\n\u201cEight years ago, a group of parents came to Congress, asking for help with a pressing issue\u2014adequately saving for their children\u2019s future.\u00a0 These parents, including a gentleman named Steve Beck, knew firsthand the challenges many families face when a loved one has a disability.\u00a0 Faced with a lifetime of extraordinary expenses, parents are told not to save or put assets in their child\u2019s name.\u00a0 Thanks to Steve and countless other concerned parents, we stand ready to forever change this dynamic.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nThe ABLE Act has been a collaborative effort. The bill was first introduced by Senators Hatch and Dodd in 2008, under the name of the Disabilities Savings Act.\u00a0 In each session since, Senator Burr and I have introduced the bill under the name of the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act.\u00a0\u00a0 Today, we are proud to say that we will pass the ABLE Act with the support of over 480 members of Congress.\u00a0\r\nBeyond this lengthy legislative history, the story of the ABLE Act is also the story of individuals like Sara Wolff, a fellow Pennsylvanian who has been one of the bill\u2019s most vocal advocates.\r\nSeveral years ago, Sara was an intern in my Scranton office. Today, Sarah is 31 years old and has two jobs \u2013 she works at Keystone Resources in the Office of Advocacy and is also a Law Clerk at a firm in my hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania. She also serves on the board of several organizations including the National Down Syndrome Society.\r\nSara happens to have Down syndrome. She a productive member of society and has goals and ambitions just like any other hard-working American. But a set of unfair rules has held Sara back by making it difficult for her to save money. In order to avoid being cut off from critical benefits, Sara has had to carefully avoid amassing more than two thousand dollars in assets and has made arrangements with her employers to keep her monthly pay below seven hundred dollars a month.\u00a0\r\nFor years, this disincentive to save has stood in the way of Sara\u2019s efforts to plan for future costs, her desire to live a fuller and more productive life, and her wish to pursue her own dreams and aspirations.\r\nStories like Sara\u2019s are common across the country. Millions of Americans are currently living with disabilities, and many of them have also had to endure significant uncertainty about their ability to cover basic expenses in the future. They have struggled to keep up with the rising cost of housing, transportation and medical assistance. A growing number of Americans with disabilities are outliving their parents, and are forced to rely on government assistance when family support disappears. This is partly because Americans with disabilities have not had the same incentives to save that other Americans enjoy.\r\nThe ABLE Act changes this unfair situation by creating tax-advantaged plans for disability-related incentives, and by allowing Americans with disabilities to save without losing eligibility for government programs.\r\nSara has told me that the ABLE Act will change her life for the better. With an ABLE account, she will be able to save for future expenses including transportation, housing, healthcare and community-based support, without worrying that her hard work will make her ineligible to receive government benefits. The immediate impact of the ABLE Act will be to give Sara financial peace of mind. In the long run, this savings vehicle will also make it easier for Sara to live independently, and pursue her goals.\r\nThat is why since 2009, Sara has been a leading champion of the ABLE Act. She has traveled all over the country advocating for this legislation, and has visited Washington countless times. Earlier this year, she authored a change.org petition calling on Congress to pass the ABLE Act.\u00a0 This petition earned the support of over 268,000 individuals from across the country. In July, she testified before the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Taxation and IRS Oversight, stressing the importance of the ABLE Act to her and millions of other Americans with disabilities.\r\nIt is thanks to the commitment of disability advocates like Sara that we stand ready to pass this important piece of legislation. I am particularly grateful for the leadership of the National Down Syndrome Society, Autism Speaks, the Arc of Pennsylvania, and numerous others who have put the full resources of their organizations behind this effort.\u00a0\r\nI am also grateful for the leadership of Senator Burr, who has been a tireless advocate for the ABLE Act.\u00a0 I remember earlier this year, my friend remarking that ABLE is \u2018one train you don\u2019t want to get in front of.\u2019\u00a0 His determination and that of his staffer Natasha Hickman were instrumental to the ABLE effort.\u00a0\r\nWe could not have passed the ABLE Act without the support of Finance Committee leadership and staff.\u00a0 I would like to give special recognition to Chairman Wyden and numerous members of his staff who have worked on this bill, including Tiffany Smith on the Chairman\u2019s tax team who worked for years on the ABLE Act.\u00a0 Senator Hatch, an early supporter of this idea deserves a lot of credit as well.\u00a0 Thank you to your entire team for their hours of work on ABLE.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nI also want to extend my gratitude to our bipartisan team in the House of Representatives, led by Representatives Crenshaw and Van Hollen and with incredible support from Representatives McMorris Rogers and Sessions.\u00a0 Watching the big, bipartisan vote a couple of weeks ago in the House of Representatives is a testament to your efforts.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nI want to thank the Senate Leaders, Senators Reid and McConnell, for their support.\u00a0 Your determination and the assistance of your staffers Cathy Koch and Brendan Dunn have been key to the success of this effort.\u00a0\r\nI am grateful to everyone on my staff who worked on this bill, especially to my legislative director, Dick Spiegelman and our lead policy advisor, Jennifer McCloskey. Jennifer shepherded this bill through countless hours of meetings and negotiations in the House and Senate, and she worked tirelessly with many advocates to ensure that their voices were heard in the crafting of this legislation. I thank her for her determination and hard work to get the ABLE Act across the finish line.\r\nFinally, I want to thank one of those concerned dads who brought the idea for ABLE to Congress\u2014Steve Beck.\u00a0 Steve worked for years on this issue.\u00a0 When the House passed ABLE, I understand issued the loudest cheer came from Steve.\u00a0 Steve passed away last week but his legacy lives on through the Stephen Beck, Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience Act.\u00a0 Thank you to Steve and his family for your efforts to provide millions with a better future.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://doyle.house.gov/press-release/doyle-statement-mass-arrest-journalists-turkey", "Doyle Statement on the Mass Arrest of Journalists in Turkey", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mike Doyle", "D000482", "doyle.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Pittsburgh, PA \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Doyle (D-PA-14) issued the following statement today about human rights violations by the Turkish government:\n\u00a0\nOn Sunday, December 14, Turkish police arrested nearly 30 journalists whose only offenses appear to be their association with an opposition movement and their allegations of corruption in the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The arrests included the general editor of the largest daily newspaper in the country.\u00a0\n\u00a0\nThe senior expert on Turkey at Human Rights Watch concluded that \u201cThe timing and the limited evidence made public suggests these arrests are politically motivated, not based on reasonable suspicion of a criminal offense.\u201d\u00a0\n\u00a0\nThese arrests appear to be just the latest actions in a long series of attempts to maintain the ruling AKP party\u2019s hold on power in the face of corruption allegations and mass protests. Turkey will cease to be a democracy and a partner with the free countries in NATO if it continues to jail journalists and opposition politicians and shuts down its free press.\n\u00a0\nI deplore the suppression of free speech in Turkey. I condemn the politicization of the judiciary and the subversion of the legal system by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the AKP. The United States must insist that President Erdogan release the journalists and others his government has arrested for political reasons.\u00a0\n\u00a0\nI have sent a letter to Secretary of State Kerry expressing my great concern about these human rights abuses in Turkey and urging the U.S. State Department to take immediate action to convince the Erdogan regime to release its political prisoners and respect human rights, freedom of the press, and the other essential foundations of democracy.\n\u00a0\nClick here to read a copy of the letter.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/article/congress-must-act-to-ensure-safety-of-children", "Congress must act to ensure safety of children", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By:\u00a0\r\n                    Bob Casey\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Wednesday, December 17, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            Philadelphia, PA \u2013 Two years ago this week, at Sandy Hook Elementary School, 20 children and six adults were killed in one of the deadliest school shootings in our nation's history. I will never forget the horror of how those children died - shot at close range with a high-powered rifle, with each child hit as many as 11 times, as a shooter fired more than 150 rounds of ammunition within five minutes. The tragedy was magnified by the realization of what could have happened if the killer had more time - given the time and capacity, he would have killed hundreds of children.\r\nThis week we recognize the loss of the children killed at Sandy Hook and the grief of their families and community. But this week also provides an opportunity to take stock of the past two years and the work we have ahead of us.\r\nSince Sandy Hook, there have been more than 95 school shootings in the United States. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, compiled by Everytown for Gun Safety, there were 1,453 gun deaths in Pennsylvania in 2012. The numbers are staggering, and the refusal of some in Congress to take action is inexcusable.\r\nWe should be taking any steps within our power to ensure that our children are safe in their schools and parents can feel at peace knowing that their children are protected. In pursuit of that goal, in April 2013, the Senate took up a bipartisan set of proposals that would have expanded background checks for firearms sold at gun shows and on the Internet, improved the ability of law enforcement to tackle the problem of illegally transferred guns, and limited possession of certain high-capacity ammunition magazines and military-grade weapons.\r\nI support the Second Amendment. Pennsylvania has a rich tradition of hunting, and I believe that people should be able to have guns for protection, sporting, and collection. But I also believe we need commonsense proposals to help keep powerful weapons out of the hands of wrongdoers without infringing on the fundamental Second Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners.\r\nLike many of my colleagues and millions of Americans, I am deeply disappointed that these measures did not pass, particularly in light of the overwhelming public support they enjoyed. I understand that some of my colleagues believe that these votes were conclusive - that there simply wasn't sufficient support among elected officials, and that the Senate functioned as it was intended. But I cannot in good conscience believe that Congress has satisfied our duty to ensure safety for our nation's children.\r\nI truly believe that all of my colleagues are invested in protecting America's children from violence. We have an abiding obligation to come together in this shared commitment, to find common ground among the many proposals that have been introduced to address this crisis. We have before us a wide range of possibilities to address firearm violence: from renewed examination of the critical importance of background checks to laws that facilitate enforcement of existing restrictions; from bans on certain weapons to increased safety hardware on firearms; and from funding for research on gun violence to resources for mental health.\r\nWhile no one piece of legislation could stop every tragedy, each may contribute to a safer society. Congress owes it to those who have been affected by firearm violence to consider each proposal fully. I refuse to believe that nothing more can be done.\r\nLike so many Americans, I cannot forget or ignore the memory of Newtown. We can never recover the lives lost at Newtown, or the reported 30,000 lives that have been lost to firearms across our country since. But we cannot afford to wait for another tragedy to revisit this issue - every day that passes is an opportunity. Congress should take this opportunity, and act with the urgency our children deserve.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/congress-agrees-to-widen-federal-help-for-disabled", "Congress Agrees to Widen Federal Help for Disabled", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Wednesday, December 17, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            Washington, DC- Congress gave final approval Tuesday to the most sweeping legislation to help the disabled in a quarter century, allowing Americans with disabilities to open tax-free bank accounts to pay for needs such as education, housing and health care.\r\nThe move paves the way for creation of the accounts beginning next year for as many as 54 million disabled people and their families.\r\n\"This is a monumental, landmark bill,\" said Sara Hart Weir, interim president of the National Down Syndrome Society. \"This bill will change the way that families can save for all their children and adults with Down syndrome and will ease the unnecessary burdens that are placed on families all while allowing people with Down syndrome to work and save for the future.\"\r\nThe Democratic-led Senate passed the measure on a 76-16 vote after it was attached to a bill extending dozens of tax breaks for individuals and businesses until the end of the year. Earlier this month, the GOP-controlled House overwhelmingly approved the measure, having garnered 85 percent of Congress as co-sponsors.\r\nThe bill, called the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, now goes to President Barack Obama for his signature.\r\nModeled after tax-free college savings accounts, the ABLE bill would amend the federal tax code to allow states to establish the program.\r\nTo qualify, a person would have to be diagnosed by age 26 with a disability that results in \"marked and severe functional limitations\"; those who are already receiving Social Security disability benefits would also qualify. Families would be able to set up tax-free accounts at financial institutions, depositing up to $14,000 annually to pay for long-term needs such as education, transportation and health care.\r\nThe contributions would be in after-tax dollars but earnings would grow tax-free.\r\nThe ABLE accounts would be able to accrue up to $100,000 in savings without the person losing eligibility for government aid such as Social Security; currently, the asset limit is $2,000. Medicaid coverage would continue no matter how much money is deposited in the accounts.\r\nIt would be the first major legislation for the disabled since the 1990 Americans With Disabilities Act.\r\nThe measure was sponsored by Sens. Bob Casey, D-Pa., and Richard Burr, R-N.C.\r\nMany lawmakers had insisted on cuts or revenue increases to offset the measure's $2 billion price tag over 10 years; the bill's sponsors found the savings in part by increasing the amount of levies on property for tax-delinquent Medicare providers and suppliers; cutting Medicare funding for \"vacuum erection systems\"; and making technical adjustments to cap worker's compensation.\r\nThe conservative Heritage Foundation criticized the bill as potentially promoting fraud and abuse, especially when it came to hard-to-diagnose mental disabilities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-the-protest-resignation-of-michael-garcia-from-fifa-ethics-committee", "Casey Statement on the Protest Resignation of Michael Garcia from FIFA Ethics Committee", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement in response to Michael Garcia's decision to resign from the FIFA ethics committee in protest over the handling of his findings.\r\n\"Michael Garcia was a strong voice for accountability and transparency in an organization famously lacking either,\" said Senator Casey.\u00a0 \"His resignation is understandable following repeated obstruction from FIFA to stifle his report on the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.\u00a0 FIFA should release the entire report to answer the many questions raised about the process that saw the U.S. lose its bid for the 2022 World Cup.\"\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-burr-able-act-passes-senate-heads-to-the-presidents-desk-to-become-law", "Casey-Burr ABLE Act Passes Senate, Heads to the President’s Desk to Become Law", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Richard Burr (R-NC) announced that the Senate has passed their Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act. The bill will allow families who have a child with a disability to save for their long-term care through 529-style savings accounts. The ABLE Act passed the House last week with a final vote of 404-17. This legislation has been called \u201c\u2026the broadest legislation to help the disabled in nearly a quarter-century.\u201d\r\n\u201cI could not be more proud of the support the ABLE Act has received from members of both parties in the House and Senate, and from all of the families who worked with us to achieve this historic goal,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cFrom the beginning, the power of these families who want to save for their loved ones\u2019 long term care has propelled the ABLE Act forward. We believe that individuals across this country with disabilities have a lot of ability. I look forward to President Obama quickly signing this bill into law so that countless families and individuals can have the tools they need to live a full life and have a bright future.\u201d\r\n\u201cSome have called the ABLE Act the most significant piece of legislation affecting the disabled since passage of the American Disabilities Act nearly 25 years ago.\u00a0 I got involved in this effort nearly 8 years ago with Senator Casey.\u00a0 Families of severely disabled children came to us expressing the critical need for an easy way to save for their child\u2019s future expenses, especially since many Americans with Down Syndrome and autism are now outliving their parents,\u201d said Senator Burr. \u201cMost middle-class families don\u2019t have the money to spend on lawyers and financial planners to set up sophisticated trusts to make sure that their disabled child will be OK long after they are gone.\u00a0 What\u2019s worse current federal law actually discourages parents from putting any assets in the name of their disabled child in fear of disqualifying them from federal programs down the road. It\u2019s utterly unacceptable that our current laws doom a child born with a disability to a lifetime of poverty and dependence.\u00a0 This is especially unfortunate when a parent or other family member has the resources and the desire to save and plan for that child\u2019s future expenses but are advised by lawyers and planners not to.\u00a0 The ABLE Act will take the first critical step in ending this injustice.\u201d\r\nThe ABLE Act would amend Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Service Code to allow use of tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. The bill, first introduced in 2006, would ease financial strains faced by individuals with disabilities by making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified expenses such as education, housing, medical, and transportation. The bill would supplement, but not supplant, benefits provided through private insurance, the Medicaid program, the beneficiary\u2019s employment, and other sources.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 Rachel Hicks (Burr) 202-228-1616", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-confirmation-of-deputy-secretary-of-state-tony-blinken", "Casey Statement on Confirmation of Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on the confirmation of Tony Blinken as Deputy Secretary of State:\r\n\u201cI am pleased that my Senate colleagues voted today to confirm Tony Blinken to the post of Deputy Secretary of State. This is an important post at a critical time in our nation\u2019s history.\u00a0 Tony is well qualified for the job. His extensive work in national security for both the Clinton and Obama Administrations brings a seasoned capability to his new position in the State Department.\u00a0 I believe his experience as a Senate staffer and his understanding of how Congress works will be valuable assets to the Administration as they work to addresses the many challenges we face a nation.\u201d\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-pakistan-school-attack", "Casey Statement on Pakistan School Attack", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on the bombing of a Pakistani school:\r\n\u201cMy thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims of today\u2019s horrific attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan.\u00a0 We are deeply saddened by this loss of so many young lives and condemn the terrorists\u2019 actions in the strongest terms.\u00a0 The Government of Pakistan has undertaken important efforts to combat terrorism and to work with the United States to promote peace and stability in the region.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-the-first-night-of-hanukkah", "Casey Statement on the First Night of Hanukkah", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement in advance of Hanukkah:\r\n\u201cHanukkah is a time when families in Pennsylvania and across America come together to celebrate freedom, faith and miracles.\u00a0As the holiday begins this evening, I want to wish everyone celebrating Hanukkah this year a joyful holiday filled with light, health and happiness.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/following-casey-effort-tax-extenders-bill-that-is-set-to-become-law-renews-tax-incentive-that-boosts-pa-short-line-railroads", "Following Casey Effort, Tax Extenders Bill that Is Set to Become Law Renews Tax Incentive that Boosts PA Short Line Railroads", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that following his efforts, Congress\u2019 tax extenders bill that is set to become law following Senate passage contains a tax incentive that will boost Pennsylvania\u2019s short line railroads. The bipartisan bill would impact Short Line railroads in places like Luzerne, Lycoming, Philadelphia and Allegheny Counties among others. It would allow these Short Line railroads to deduct up to 50% of investments made in track repair.\r\n\u201cShort Line railroads help businesses across Pennsylvania move their goods,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cRenewing this tax credit will allow railroad companies to upgrade their infrastructure so that rail continues to have a role in boosting the Commonwealth\u2019s economy.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\r\nShort line railroads are branches of lines of larger railroads that were spun off to be the on and off ramps to the railroad network. A tax credit will be given for every 50 cents of every dollar that a customer or supplier spends on rail improvements, allowing small railroad companies to deduct up to 50% of investments made in track repair and other qualifying investments. There are 10 Short Line Railroad carriers operating in Pennsylvania that save the government millions of dollars in highway costs. The tax credit act originated with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004, expired in January 2008, but was retroactively applied to extend through January 2012.\u00a0\r\nThis bill will retroactively extend the Section 45G Short Line Railroad tax credit that is expired in December 31, 2013.\r\nPennsylvania Short Line Railroads\r\nAllegheny Valley Railroad\r\n \r\nBrandywine Valley Railroad\r\nChestnut Ridge Railway Company\r\nConemaugh & Black Lick Railroad\r\nEast Erie Commercial RailroadKnox & Kane Railroad\r\nLuzerne & Susquehanna Railroad\r\nLycoming Valley Railroad\r\n \r\nMiddletown & Hummelstown Railroad\r\n \r\nNew Castle Industrial Railroad\r\n \r\n\u00a0\r\nNew Hope & Ivyland Railroad\r\n\u00a0\r\nOil Creek & Titusville Lines\r\n\u00a0\r\nNorth Shore Railroad System\r\n \r\nPhiladelphia, Bethlehem & New England Railroad\r\nPittsburgh, Allegheny & McKees Rocks Railroad\r\n \r\n\u00a0\r\nReading & Northern Railroad\r\n\u00a0\r\nSouthwestern Pennsylvania Railroad\r\n \r\nSteelton & Highspire Railroad\r\nTurtle Creek Industrial Railroad\r\nTyburn Railroad\r\n \r\n\u00a0\r\nUnion Railroad\r\n \r\nUpper Merion & Plymouth Railroad \r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/following-major-casey-effort-tax-bill-set-to-become-law-contains-measure-to-dramatically-increase-investment-in-western-pas-locks-and-dams", "Following Major Casey Effort, Tax Bill Set to Become Law Contains Measure to Dramatically Increase Investment in Western PA’s Locks and Dams", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that Congress\u2019 tax extenders bill, which is set to become law following Senate passage, contains Casey-authored provision to dramatically increase investment in Western Pennsylvania\u2019s locks and dams. The years long effort to adequately fund Western Pennsylvania\u2019s job creating waterways infrastructure received a significant boost in 2012 when Senator Casey introduced the RIVER Act. Casey\u2019s bill, which through the tax extender bill and the previously passed Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), is now law. \u00a0The legislation changes the way waterways projects are managed and revises the Inland Waterways User Fee to 29 cents per gallon beginning - a change that industry strongly supports. Prior to Senator Casey\u2019s efforts Western PA\u2019s locks and dams were only were allocated $1.96 million in Fiscal Year 2014. \u00a0After Senator Casey\u2019s efforts in WRRDA and tax extenders there will be approximately $140 million available annually for locks and dams in western Pennsylvania and across the country.\r\n\u201cThis is a breakthrough moment for the region\u2019s waterways. Our region\u2019s locks and dams play a vital role in the moving of commerce, creating and sustaining jobs, and supporting economic growth throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cThis legislation is about increasing investments in our waterways and reforming the current process to reduce waste and limit cost overruns.\u201d\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/toomey-casey-honor-centennial-anniversary-of-big-brothers-big-sisters-southeastern-pennsylvania", "Toomey, Casey Honor Centennial Anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern Pennsylvania", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.) are celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern Pennsylvania.\u00a0 A bipartisan resolution introduced by Sen. Toomey and Sen. Casey was unanimously adopted by the Senate last week.\u00a0\r\n\u201cBig Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern Pennsylvania is a terrific organization that provides invaluable support and mentoring to some of the Delaware Valley\u2019s most vulnerable residents-- at-risk children,\u201d said Sen. Toomey.\u00a0 \u201cI applaud all of the selfless work the group\u2019s volunteers and staffers have performed for the past century to benefit and protect children.\u00a0 My hat is off to James Fitzpatrick and Imani Johnson of my Philadelphia staff who volunteers as Bigs.\u201d\r\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased the Senate has recognized Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern Pennsylvania for their tremendous work with youth of all ages for the past century,\u201d said Sen.\u00a0 Casey. \u201cThe mentors who dedicate their time to work with at-risk youth are making their community more vibrant and the future of these young people brighter every day.\u201d\r\nBig Brothers Big Sisters is a national non-profit organization that provides at-risk children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships.\u00a0 Pennsylvania is home to 23 Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters.\u00a0\r\nIn 1915, the Philadelphia Big Brother Association was established.\u00a0 Today, nearly 100 years later, the Philadelphia association has grown into a four-county agency serving both boys and girls and has adopted the name Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern Pennsylvania.\r\nThis incredible organization supports nearly 3,100 mentoring matches annually using proven methods shown to help participants perform better in school and develop better relationships with their families and peers.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-presses-schott-on-future-plans-for-duryea-plant-in-wake-of-layoffs", "Casey Presses Schott on Future Plans for Duryea Plant in Wake of Layoffs", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has sent a letter to Schott\u2019s North American President and CEO, Mr. Wolters, pressing the company on its future plans for its Duryea plant following 80 layoffs. In his letter, Casey asked the company to commit to keeping the plant\u2019s remaining jobs and maintaining a presence in Northeastern Pennsylvania.\r\n\u201cNortheastern Pennsylvania\u2019s highly skilled workforce has been an asset to Schott for years and I\u2019m urging the company to commit to the region and its workers in the future,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cIn the wake of these layoffs it\u2019s important that Schott lays out its long term vision for the current workforce and for its presence in Northeastern Pennsylvania.\u201d\r\nThe full text of Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\nDear Mr. Wolters:\r\nAs a senator for Pennsylvania and a resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania, I know the many advantages the area has to offer including a strong workforce.\u00a0 Given Schott\u2019s presence in Pennsylvania over many decades, I am sure you would agree with this sentiment.\u00a0\r\nThat is why I was disappointed to learn about the layoffs announced last month in the Duryea optics division.\u00a0 It is my understanding that the work performed by these employees will be consolidated at your facility in Mainz, Germany.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nThese layoffs represent a third of the workforce at the Duryea facility.\r\nWhat is your long-term vision for the Duryea facility and the other facilities in Pennsylvania?\u00a0 Do you anticipate additional consolidation that would negatively impact the Pennsylvania workforce or do you see growth with new product lines?\r\nGiven the long history and productive history of Schott in Pennsylvania, I hope that this partnership will continue with a robust workforce in Duryea and at your other Pennsylvania facilities.\u00a0\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-the-confirmation-of-surgeon-general-dr-vivek-murthy", "Casey Statement on the Confirmation of Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Dr. Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General:\r\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that the Senate voted in favor of Dr. Vivek Murthy\u2019s nomination as Surgeon General. Dr. Murthy is well qualified and has the necessary skills to succeed in this critical public health position. Last week, I sent a letter to all Senators encouraging a vote in favor of his nomination. Dr. Murthy is ready to go to work and do an excellent job on behalf of the American people.\u201d\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-urges-army-corps-to-prioritize-schuylkill-dredging-project", "Casey Urges Army Corps to Prioritize Schuylkill Dredging Project", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called on the Army Corps of Engineers to prioritize funding and work on the Schuylkill River dredging project. The Army Corps of Engineers has previously received congressional authorization to address these issues through dredging operations that would restore the river to a depth of six feet.\u00a0 However, the project has not received sufficient funding raising safety concerns.\u00a0 In a letter, Senator Casey urged the administration to dedicate sufficient resources to this project that will enhance safety, increase recreational opportunities, create jobs and spur the region\u2019s economy.\r\n\u201cDredging the Schuylkill will have a tremendous positive impact on everyone who enjoys one of Pennsylvania\u2019s most popular natural recreation areas,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cAs the Army Corps develops its plans and priorities for the next fiscal year, I am calling on them to prioritize providing funding for this important project that helps generate economic growth in the Philadelphia region.\u201d\r\nThe text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter is below:\r\nDear Assistant Secretary Darcy:\r\nI am writing to request that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prioritize the Schuylkill River dredging project in its FY 2015 Work Plan for Operations and Maintenance. This project is necessary to keep the Schuylkill River safe and accessible for Pennsylvanians, and I urge you to ensure that the project receives the funds it needs to be dredged to the authorized level of six feet.\r\nI have been advised that significant shoaling of the Schuylkill River has been taking place in the Philadelphia region for the last several years. I have been informed that the shoaling starts at the basin behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art, extending from the Fairmount Dam and up to the Falls Bridge, and is most acute adjacent to Boathouse Row and on the rowing race course between the Columbia Railroad Bridge and the Strawberry Mansion Bridge.\u00a0 This activity not only raises significant safety concerns, but also interferes with recreational opportunities on the river.\r\nThe Army Corps of Engineers has previously received congressional authorization to address these issues through dredging operations that would restore the river to a depth of six feet.\u00a0 However, the project has not received sufficient funding resulting in safety issues. As the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers develops its plans and priorities for the next fiscal year, I urge you to prioritize providing funding for this important project that helps generate economic growth in the Philadelphia region.\u00a0\r\nThank you in advance for your consideration of my views. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact me or my staff.\r\nSincerely,\r\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\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/the-378th-birthday-of-the-national-guard", "The 378th Birthday of the National Guard", "2014-12-13", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Saturday, December 13, 2014\n\t\t\t\t The 378th Birthday of the National Guard \n\t\t\t\t\n                        by Bob Casey \n                        \n                 \n\t\n\t            \n\t                \n\t                    \n\t                        \n\t                    \n\t                \n\t            \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t  \t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tToday, we celebrate the 378th birthday of the National Guard and the long tradition of citizen service in the United States.\u00a0 Today, the National Guard continues its dual service role to the states, territories and the District of Columbia as well as to the defense of the United States and its interests across the globe.\r\nPennsylvanians share in this rich tradition of service in the United States Armed Forces.\u00a0 In 1747, Benjamin Franklin led Philadelphia in the creation of the \u201cAssociators,\u201d marking the beginning of what is now the Pennsylvania National Guard.\u00a0 For 267 years, citizens of the Commonwealth have been inspired by the Pennsylvania National Guard motto, \u201cCivilian in peace. Soldier in war.\u201d\u00a0 Ever vigilant, members of the Pennsylvania National Guard stand ready to set aside the comforts of home to support their communities and nation in times of war, natural disaster or civil emergency.\u00a0\r\nPennsylvania has one of the largest National Guard forces in the United States.\u00a0 Our citizen-soldiers have fought in every major American conflict from their inception to present day.\u00a0 I am deeply grateful for their continued service to our communities and the nation.\u00a0 I wish the National Guard a \u201chappy birthday.\u201d\u00a0\n\t\t\t\t\n                    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTags:\n                            \n                                \n                                National Guard", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-continuing-resolution-omnibus-passage", "Casey Statement on Continuing Resolution Omnibus Passage", "2014-12-13", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on the continuing resolution omnibus passage:\r\n\u201cThis bill is not perfect but it contains a number of important provisions that I fought to include to create and protect jobs in our Commonwealth. While I don\u2019t like the way it came together, strongly disagree with parts of it, and believe we have to do better \u2013 I also have an obligation to look at the package as a whole. Taken in totality, this bill will help create and protect jobs in Pennsylvania and will prevent another government shutdown.\u201d\r\nCasey urged congressional appropriators to invest in priorities critical to Pennsylvania and the nation, including these below:\r\n \r\nInvestments in child nutrition programs will increase by $2.1 billion above FY 2014 enacted.\r\n \r\n \r\nDelaware Deepening Project: $35 million, which is what Casey requested for FY 2015.\r\n \r\n \r\nWater Resources Operation and Maintenance: The bill provides $2.9 billion for operation and maintenance of water resources projects. That is $48 million more than the fiscal year 2014 enacted amount and $309 million more than the fiscal year 2015 request. Over $50 million of this funding would go to locks and dams in Pennsylvania.\r\n \r\n \r\nNational Institutes of Health: $30.3 billion, an increase of $150 million\r\n \r\n \r\nCommunity Oriented Policing Services (COPS): Received $180 million\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nHead Start: $8.6 billion, a $1 billion increase from FY 2013.\r\n \r\n \r\nPeer-Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP): $247,500,000 included for the PRMRP. Also included in the final bill:\r\n\r\namyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - 7.5 million;\r\nautism \u2013 6 million\r\nprostate cancer \u2013 80 million\r\novarian cancer research \u2013 20 million\r\nbreast cancer research \u2013 120 million\r\nmultiple sclerosis \u2013 5 million\r\ngulf war illness \u2013 20 million\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nNew Initiative to Improve the Safety of Crude Oil Shipments: \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\n\r\nFunds to hire 15 new rail and hazardous materials inspectors and retain 45 rail safety positions created in 2014\r\n$3 million to expand the use of automated track inspections to ensure proper track maintenance on crude oil routes\r\nSupport for the establishment of a Short Line Safety Institute to preform safety compliance assessments and safety training for short line railroads that transport crude oil.\r\nProper classification ensures that emergency responders understand the hazards of the products being shipped and the correct way to respond in the case of an accident.\r\nRequires PHMSA to finalize the tank car rule no later than January 15, 2015\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nCommunity Development Block Grants: Received $3 billion for the CDBG program which is level with last year. CDBG allow forty-seven communities across Pennsylvania to obtain direct funding to address local needs. Countless other communities across Pennsylvania have received Community Development Block Grant funds made available to the Commonwealth. Last year Pennsylvania communities received over $171 million in CDBG funding last year and will continue to under this bill.\r\n \r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-defense-bill-protects-national-heritage-areas-in-pa-likely-to-pass-this-week-and-become-law", "Casey: Defense Bill Protects National Heritage Areas in PA Likely to Pass this Week and Become Law", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which has already passed the House and is likely to pass the Senate this week, contains language that would protect four Pennsylvania National Heritage Areas (NHAs) for the next decade. The bill would protect the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area, Lackawanna Heritage Valley National Heritage Area, Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, and Schuylkill River Valley National Heritage Area for the next decade. Casey pushed for the measures to be included in the bill.\r\n\u201cPreserving these historic areas will protect Pennsylvania\u2019s history and boost our economy by attracting visitors from throughout the country,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cPassing this legislation will give these communities more certainty by protecting these precious areas for another decade.\u201d \u00a0\r\nNational Heritage Areas (NHAs) are designated by Congress as places where natural, cultural, and historic resources combine to form a cohesive, nationally important landscape. Through their resources, NHAs tell nationally important stories that celebrate our nation's diverse heritage. NHAs are lived-in landscapes. Consequently, NHA entities collaborate with communities to determine how to make heritage relevant to local interests and needs.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-introduces-legislation-to-protect-consumers-from-faulty", "Cartwright Introduces Legislation to Protect Consumers from Faulty Automobiles and Equipment", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright introduced the Early Warning Reporting System Improvement Act of 2014.\u00a0 U.S. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) has introduced similar legislation in the Senate.\nThe legislation would require automobile and equipment manufacturers to automatically submit the accident report or other documents that first alerted them to a fatality involving their vehicle or equipment to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration\u2019s Early Warning Reporting database.\n\u201cWhile the NHTSA is responsible for overseeing the safety of our roadways, they do not always have the information they need to protect the public, and have at times failed to actively investigate car defects,\u201d said Rep. Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cThe recent GM Cobalt and Saturn Ion recalls related to an ignition switch defect the company knew about for at least ten years highlights the need for companies to provide more information about accidents involving fatalities to the NHTSA.\u201d\nThe issue hits home for northeastern Pennsylvania; in January 2010, Kelly Ruddy of Scranton was only 21 years old when she lost her life in a deadly crash on Interstate 81.\u00a0 Kelly was driving north near the Bear Creek exit when she lost control of her 2005 Chevy Cobalt.\nRuddy\u2019s parents, fought the vehicle manufacturer, General Motors, for four years and finally GM settled with them for their daughter`s death.\u00a0 General Motors is now admitting that a faulty ignition switch is responsible for numerous crashes and deaths across the nation, and the company recalled 2.6 million vehicles, including 2005 Cobalts, earlier this year.\nThe CDC estimates that in 2011, more than 2.6 million drivers and passengers were treated in emergency rooms as a result of being injured in motor vehicle crashed.\u00a0 In 2010, motor vehicle related injuries cost the states and our nation an estimated $99 billion in lifetime medical care and lost productivity.\u00a0 Tragically, close to 34,000 people died in motor vehicle traffic incidents in 2012.\nTo address this critical issue, the Early Warning Reporting System Improvement Act of 2014 would:\n Require automobile and equipment manufacturers to automatically submit the accident report or other documents that first alerted them to a fatality involving their vehicle or equipment to NHTSA\u2019s Early Warning Reporting database.\u00a0 NHTSA is then required to automatically make those documents public unless they are exempted from public disclosure under FOIA.\n\tRequire NHTSA to consider Early Warning Reporting information when it is investigating potential safety defects and when it is evaluating citizen petitions for automobile safety standards or enforcement actions.\n\tRequire NHTSA to upgrade its online database to improve searchability, integrate its different databases so they can all be searched at once, and ensure that all documents obtained or created by NHTSA related to a safety incident are both made publicly available and keyword searchable in its databases.\n\tRequire NHTSA to provide public, searchable notices of all inspection and investigation activities it undertakes.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-urges-senate-to-back-confirmation-of-dr-vivek-murthy-for-surgeon-general", "Casey Urges Senate to Back Confirmation of Dr. Vivek Murthy for Surgeon General", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has sent a \u2018dear colleague\u2019 letter to all U.S. Senators urging support for Surgeon General nominee Vivek Murthy. Casey urged Senators to vote in favor of Murthy in order to address urgent public health challenges that the country faces.\r\n\u201cI voted for Vivek Murthy\u2019s nomination as a member of the HELP Committee and believe he will play an important role in the work our nation needs to do to address our current public health challenges,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cI\u2019m encouraging all Senators to support Dr. Murthy\u2019s nomination to the position of Surgeon General. He\u2019s ready to go to work and do an excellent job on behalf of the American people.\u201d\r\nThe full text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\nDear Colleague:\r\nI write today to urge your support of Dr. Vivek Murthy, the nominee to serve as the next Surgeon General of the United States.\u00a0 Dr. Murthy\u2019s nomination was approved by the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions in February, but has yet to be taken up by the full Senate.\r\nI am concerned that his nomination stalled over policy matters that are outside the scope of the position.\u00a0 As Surgeon General, Dr. Murthy he has personally assured me, and stated publicly, that his focus as Surgeon General would be on chronic disease and obesity, two of the most serious threats facing the health of the American people.\u00a0 We should not let his confirmation stall over public policy debates unrelated to the position in which he would serve.\r\nIn the months since Dr. Murthy was nominated, our Nation has faced a new public health threat, in the form of the first multi-nation Ebola epidemic.\u00a0 At a time when the American public is worried and unsure of what might happen, the role of \u201cAmerica\u2019s Doctor\u201d remains unfilled.\u00a0 Having a Surgeon General in place during public health emergencies or emerging situations provides an additional trusted voice that can communicate with the public and help address their concerns.\r\nFurthermore, leaving the role of Surgeon General unfilled also means that the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps has been operating under interim leadership for over a year now.\u00a0 The dedicated medical professionals in the Commissioned Corps deserve to have appropriate leadership.\r\nDr. Murthy\u2019s nomination is supported by a broad coalition of public health advocates, state and local public health officials, and professional groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Hospital Association, the American Cancer Society and the American Public Health Association.\u00a0 It is past time to confirm a new Surgeon General, and I hope you will join me in supporting Dr. Murthy\u2019s confirmation before the end of the year.\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-introduces-legislation-aimed-at-tackling-nation-s-retirement", "Cartwright Introduces Legislation Aimed at Tackling Nations Retirement Crisis", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright (PA-17) and Keith Ellison (MN-05) introduced the USA Retirement Funds Act.\u00a0 The bill is based on similar legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA).\nWith only one in five people having a defined-benefit pension plan and half of workers having no plan at all, the U.S. continues to face a growing retirement crisis.\u00a0 Additionally, as half of Americans have less than $10,000 in savings and 85 percent of Americans report that they worry about their prospects for retirement, the need for reform to the nation\u2019s retirement system has never been greater.\n\u201cThere is strong public support for reforming the retirement system,\u201d said Rep. Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cA recent study by the National Institute for Retirement Security found a majority of Americans agree there is a need for a strong, universal pension system, and 90 percent favor a plan that is available to all Americans, is portable, and provides a monthly check throughout retirement.\u201d\n\u201cI congratulate Mr. Cartwright on introducing the Universal Coverage Retirement Funds Act,\u201d said Rep. Ellison. \u201cHis bill would enable millions more Americans to attain retirement security by increasing their access to better retirement plans at work.\u201d\nThe bill tackles the retirement crisis head-on by ensuring that people currently without access to a workplace retirement plan would finally have the opportunity to earn a safe and secure pension benefit for life.\u00a0 The key features of USA Retirement Funds include:\n Universal Coverage: USA Retirement Funds would be available to everyone, including the more than 62 million people without access to a workplace retirement plan and the 14.5 million people who are self-employed.\n\tAutomatic Enrollment: Employees would be automatically enrolled at a rate of 6 percent per year, but could choose to raise, lower, or stop their contributions.\n\tSecure Lifetime Income: Benefits would be paid monthly for life, and participants would be shielded from market volatility and other risks.\n\tLower Costs: Pooled, professional management and risk sharing will reduce the cost of retirement by up to 50 percent.\n\tPortability: People would be able to take their benefit with them as they change employers.\n\tSimple and Easy for Businesses: Small businesses can easily participate and would not have to take on risk or administrative burden.\n \u201cUSA Retirement Funds would represent a big step forward in addressing our retirement income crisis. \u00a0The proposal combines some of the best elements of a traditional pension\u2014including regular lifetime payments in retirement, professional management, and pooled investing\u2014with elements of a 401(k), such as predictable costs for employers and portability for workers,\u201d said David Madland, the Center for American Progress\u2019 Managing Director of Economic Policy.\u00a0 \u201cOur research finds that plans like USA Retirement Funds cost about half as much to provide an adequate retirement benefit as a typical 401(k), while exposing participants to much lower levels of risk.\u00a0\u00a0 USA Retirement Funds would provide workers with a secure lifetime income without requiring employers to take on long-term liabilities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/the-need-to-act-on-climate-change", "The Need to Act on Climate Change", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Wednesday, December 10, 2014\n\t\t\t\t The Need to Act on Climate Change \n\t\t\t\t\n                        by Bob Casey \n                        \n                 \n\t\n\t            \n\t                \n\t                    \n\t                        \n\t                    \n\t                \n\t            \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t  \t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tIn November, I wrote to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy to support EPA\u2019s comprehensive Clean Power Plan to lower carbon pollution while urging EPA to adopt a structure that would be fairer to the Commonwealth.\u00a0Pennsylvania powers states throughout the region and has made great strides as a leader in the development of clean energy sources.\r\n   We must be serious about the threat of climate change for the sake of public health, national security and children\u2019s health. I support the need for a comprehensive climate change plan. We must rise to the challenge of climate change and revitalize our economy by increasing our efforts in the areas of energy efficiency; developing and adopting cleaner ways of producing electricity; and creating jobs.\r\nThe key points of my letter:\r\n \r\nWe must take action on climate change because it poses a serious threat to public health, the environment and national security.\r\nThe transition to cleaner energy must include a pathway for multiple forms of electricity generation including clean coal, natural gas, nuclear, hydropower, wind, solar, biomass and other renewables, as well as energy efficiency measures.\r\nEPA\u2019s comprehensive four-building-block plan is a necessary and effective approach to reducing carbon pollution.\r\nPennsylvania is a net-energy-producing state (generating more power than it consumes) whose economy is built on affordable electricity for manufacturing and other energy-intensive industries.\r\nEPA\u2019s renewable energy target for Pennsylvania imposes an unequal burden on the Commonwealth relative to other states with much greater renewable energy potential, and it wouldn\u2019t be possible to get greater carbon pollution reductions from the other three building blocks in Pennsylvania.\r\nEPA must give greater recognition to zero-carbon sources such as nuclear power and hydropower to provide an incentive for these sources to remain in operation, as they make up a large portion of Pennsylvania\u2019s electricity sources that would lower its carbon pollution rate.\r\n \n\t\t\t\t\n                    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTags:\n                            \n                                \n                                Clean Power Plan,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Climate Change,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Energy,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Environment,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Environmental Protection Agency,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                EPA", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-presses-administration-to-provide-funds-for-presque-isle-in-upcoming-budget", "Casey Presses Administration to Provide Funds for Presque Isle in Upcoming Budget", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) pressed the Administration to provide funds for the sand replenishment project at Presque Isle in its upcoming budget that is due to be released in the coming weeks. In a letter to Shaun Donovan, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Casey highlighted the $77 million that visitors annually spend at Presque Isle and the 1,000 jobs it supports throughout the Erie region. Casey has consistently pressed the Administration and Congress to provide adequate funding to Presque Isle.\r\n\u201cPresque Isle is a major driver of the region\u2019s economy and its critical that the Administration provides adequate funding to this project in its upcoming budget,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cPresque Isle is one of our state\u2019s treasures. Putting appropriate funding into this project will maintain one of our state\u2019s most visited state parks and bolster Northwestern Pennsylvania\u2019s economy.\u201d\r\nThe full text of Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\nDear Director Donovan:\r\nAs the Administration prepares the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget, I would like to request your support for the sand replenishment project at Presque Isle in Erie, Pennsylvania.\u00a0\r\nPresque Isle State Park, located on Lake Erie, draws over four million visitors annually for a variety of recreational activities and is the top attraction for the regional tourism economy. The Presque Isle State Park is also one of the most visited state parks in Pennsylvania.\u00a0 Visitors spend nearly $77 million annually at Presque Isle and help to create over 1,000 jobs in the Erie region.\u00a0 This project is crucial to the economy in northwestern Pennsylvania.\u00a0 In this tough economic climate, we need to make targeted investments in projects that will help our economy grow, and investment in the Presque Isle project will help maintain this important economic boost to the region.\r\nThe beaches at Presque Isle continually battle storm erosion and require annual sand replenishment to address this problem.\u00a0 Without sufficient funding for annual sand nourishment the beach will be subject to continued erosion which could breach the Peninsula and damage the park\u2019s infrastructure.\u00a0 In the past, erosion has caused significant damage to beaches and hiking trails as well as ecosystems that support endangered species that reside in the park.\u00a0 If unaddressed, the damage that erosion causes will threaten the region\u2019s economy.\u00a0\r\nFor these reasons, I respectfully request that you include Presque Isle in the Budget for Fiscal Year 2016.\u00a0 In the past, this project has annually appeared in the President\u2019s Budget.\u00a0 Unfortunately, that has not been the case for the past few years.\u00a0 I respectfully urge you to support by restoring funding for this important project for Fiscal 2016. In closing, let me take this opportunity to thank you for your consideration of this project.\u00a0\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-toomey-perry-announce-expansion-of-gettysburg-national-military-park-in-defense-bill-likely-to-pass-senate-and-become-law-this-week", "Casey, Toomey, Perry Announce Expansion of Gettysburg National Military Park in Defense Bill, Likely to Pass Senate and Become Law This Week", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which has already passed the House and is likely to pass the Senate this week, contains language that would expand Gettysburg National Military Park by 45 acres and add the Lincoln Train Station.\r\n\u201cThis legislation will preserve an area of great national historical and cultural importance,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cExpanding this historical area will also contribute to the region\u2019s economy as it continues to attract visitors from around the world who want to experience this significant time in American history.\u201d\r\n\"The upcoming vote in the Senate to allow Gettysburg National Military Park to expand to include the historic train station and Plum Run should mark the culmination of a long bipartisan effort, said Senator Toomey.\u00a0 \u201cGettysburg National Military Park is an important part of our nation's history and encourages tourism and growth in the area.\u00a0 My thanks to Senator Casey and Congressman Perry for working with me on this important effort.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe Battle of Gettysburg marks a turning point in American history,\u201d said Representative Perry. \u201cBy preserving the Lincoln Train Station, I hope to inspire my fellow citizens to learn and appreciate the significance of the Gettysburg Campaign, the Gettysburg Address, the Civil War and the bravery of the soldiers who, in President Lincoln's words, \"gave the last full measure of devotion.\u201d If the Senate and President Obama approve this as expected, I\u2019ll be privileged that my first piece of legislation signed into law will be to help protect the Gettysburg Battlefield.\u201d\r\nThe language in the bill expands the boundary of Gettysburg National Military Park to include 45 acres of land at the southern end of the battlefield where cavalry skirmishes occurred during the Battle of Gettysburg in July of 1863.\u00a0The land has environmental significance as home to wetlands and wildlife habitat related to the Plum Run stream that traverses the park.\u00a0This 45-acre property is adjacent to current park land and was donated to the Gettysburg Foundation in April of 2009. The Foundation plans to donate the parcel to the park once it\u2019s added to the park\u2019s boundaries; therefore, no federal land acquisition funding is necessary to obtain this property.\r\nThe Lincoln Train Station, located in downtown Gettysburg, was built in 1858 and is currently listed in the National Register of Historic Places.\u00a0The station served as a hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg and was the departure point for thousands of soldiers who were wounded or killed in battle.\u00a0The Lincoln Train Station is also the site at which President Abraham Lincoln arrived on November 18, 1863, one day before he delivered the Gettysburg Address at the Gettysburg National Cemetery.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 Steve Kelly (Toomey) 717-782-3951 Bob Reilly (Perry) 717- 600-1919", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/following-casey-effort-likely-to-pass-defense-and-appropriations-bills-delay-plan-that-would-have-moved-key-assets-like-apache-helicopters-away-from-pa-national-guard", "Following Casey Effort: Likely to Pass Defense and Appropriations Bills Delay Plan that Would Have Moved Key Assets like Apache Helicopters Away from PA National Guard", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which has already passed the House and is likely to pass the Senate this week, contains language that would protect military assets, like Apache helicopters, from being moved away from Pennsylvania National Guard Units. The omnibus appropriations act also prevents funds from being used to divest these important assets in 2015. At facilities like Ft. Indiantown Gap and the 104th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion in Johnstown, PA Guard members play a crucial role in maintaining these assets and preparing them for use in the field. Moving these assets away from PA units could erode the role that the National Guard plays in the nation\u2019s defense and endanger the future of these facilities. \u00a0Casey wrote a letter to Secretary Hagel on the issue and weighed in with key officials at the Defense Department. He also visited Ft. Indiantown Gap in October to speak with the Guard members who fly and maintain these helicopters.\r\n\u201cThe women and men of Pennsylvania\u2019s National Guard have made incredible sacrifices on behalf of our nation and contributed to keeping our country safe,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cAs we draw down in Afghanistan and consider the future shape of our Armed Forces, it\u2019s important that the National Guard continue to play a significant role in our national defense. The Guard has proven over and over again that it is efficient and effective. More work remains to be done to preserve the PA National Guard\u2019s air capabilities in the long run, and I\u2019ll continue to press the Administration to maintain a robust role for the National Guard in our national defense and in responding to disasters here at home.\u201d\r\nThe full text of the letter can be seen below:\r\nDear Secretary Hagel:\r\nWe write to express our deep concern with the Department of the Army\u2019s proposal to cut Army National Guard combat aviation assets and force structure.\u00a0 While we are aware that the Army\u2019s budget request for fiscal year 2015 is pre-decisional, every indication including public statements and briefings from Army leadership on Capitol Hill suggests the decision was made without meaningful consultation with the Army National Guard.\u00a0 This shortsighted approach creates unnecessary risk to our national security at the expense of incredibly capable attack aviation assets in the Army National Guard.\r\nIt has also come to our attention that the Guard has attempted to work with the Army on ways to implement necessary budget cuts by proposing alternatives that satisfy the Army National Guard\u2019s proportional share of reductions required by the Budget Control Act.\u00a0 Their proposal sustains Army National Guard aviation force structure and garners savings from other areas while assuming minimal readiness risk and sustaining much needed capacity for national defense and unforeseen contingencies.\u00a0\r\nAs you know, the country has invested so much in the men and women of our National Guard to ensure that they are an augmentable, operational force.\u00a0 We need to continue to organize, train, equip, and manage them in a manner commensurate with their invaluable role in national security.\u00a0 To squander these investments would be an incredibly shortsighted mistake.\r\nTherefore, we strongly recommend that you work with the Army and the National Guard on a solution that fully takes into account national security needs as well as state domestic response obligations.\u00a0 We are confident that a resolution can be reached.\u00a0 However, in the absence of a reasonable solution, Congress will look for ways to ensure that the Total Army is balanced in ways that meet our nation's security interests, now and in the future, that take into account Total Army requirements, capabilities and costs.\u00a0 In addition, because the Army\u2019s current proposal to cut Guard attack aviation assets creates unnecessary and irreversible impact to our combat aviation force, we would also look to prevent all Army National Guard aviation force structure transfers and retirements until further review.\r\nOur country deserves the best Army we can afford to meet the nation\u2019s most urgent threats \u2013 one that is smaller, expandable, interchangeable and experienced.\u00a0 We believe the National Guard can be part of a cost effective security solution that retains affordable security for peacetime as well as the ability to respond to unforeseen, future contingencies.\r\nThank you for your consideration of this request.\u00a0\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/in-meeting-with-key-administration-official-casey-presses-for-funding-for-delaware-deepening-project", "In Meeting with Key Administration Official, Casey Presses for Funding for Delaware Deepening Project", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has urged the Obama Administration to include adequate funding for the Delaware Deepening project in its upcoming Fiscal Year 2016 (FY2016) budget. During a meeting with Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jo-Ellen Darcy, Casey discussed the role the deepening the Delaware will play in job creation and economic growth in Southeastern Pennsylvania.\r\n\u201cDeepening the Delaware will have a significant economic impact for the Port of Philadelphia and all of Southeastern Pennsylvania,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cI had a productive conversation with Assistant Secretary Darcy and will continue to urge the Administration to adequately fund the Delaware Deepening project. Finishing this project will support 38,000 jobs and has the potential to create more. It will also make our city\u2019s port and businesses competitive other ports throughout the country.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThe project will deepen the Delaware River channel from forty feet to forty-five feet in order to accommodate larger vessels. This will reduce shipping costs, make maritime transportation more efficient and make the channel safer and more reliable. Once the channel is deepened, there will be an estimated increase of 2.5 million tons of cargo to the Port of Philadelphia, having the potential to create more jobs. In addition, this project will provide the potential to create thousands of short-term jobs that aid an industry that has suffered significantly in this economic climate. According to an economic impact study by the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority the Delaware River currently supports over 38,000 jobs.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-davis-introduce-legislation-to-boost-stem-cut-red-tape", "Cartwright, Davis Introduce Legislation to Boost STEM, Cut Red Tape", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright (PA-17) and Rodney Davis (IL-13) introduced the bipartisan Innovate America Act.\u00a0\nAs innovation continues to be a catalyzing force in the American economy, the need for a workforce that is able to adjust is greater.\u00a0 This bill would help secure America\u2019s standing in the global economy by boosting science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, thus laying the groundwork for future innovation.\u00a0\n\u201cThe United States has fallen behind in its efforts to compete in an increasingly competitive global economy,\u201d said Rep. Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cThis legislation not only devotes more resources into STEM fields, but also works to eliminate burdensome regulations, and provide our nation\u2019s businesses with the workforce it needs to compete in today\u2019s global economy.\u201d\n\"The 13th District is home to several colleges and universities with quality STEM-focused programs that spur innovation and job creation,\" said Rep. Davis. \"The\u00a0Innovate America Act\u00a0builds upon these successful programs and extends STEM opportunities to high school students.\u00a0 Additionally, this legislation comes full circle by cutting government impediments to small manufacturers so more jobs will be available to graduates.\"\nSpecifically, the Innovate America Act would: Improve STEM education by doubling the number of STEM-focused high schools; Promote computer science training and expanding research opportunities for undergraduates in STEM majors; Study the impact of STEM field retention programs for students; Establish a website for technology commercialization ideas; Establish a manufacturing assistance program aimed at assisting small and medium-sized businesses; Identify and call for removal of regulatory barriers for small and medium-sized manufacturers; Identify the regulatory barriers for top 20 exporting industries for the purpose of improving global competitiveness.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-cartwright-applauds-passage-of-new-measure-to-prevent-veteran", "Rep. Cartwright Applauds Passage of New Measure to Prevent Veteran Suicides", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright applauded the unanimous House passage of bipartisan legislation to address the epidemic of suicide among our nation\u2019s veterans.\u00a0\n\u201cOne veteran lost to suicide is one veteran too many,\u201d said Rep. Cartwright. \u00a0\u201cThis bipartisan legislation provides our heroes the care and support they have earned and deserve to overcome mental health challenges, traumatic brain injuries, and post-traumatic stress disorder.\u00a0 I was proud to support this legislation to ensure our nation stands behind our brave veterans with compassion and dedication every day.\u201d\nTwenty-two veterans commit suicide every day \u2013 more than 8,000 every year.\u00a0 Of the more than 2 million Americans who have served in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, it is estimated that one-third, roughly 600,000 women and men, have traumatic brain injury, PTSD or depression.\u00a0 Named in honor of an Iraq and Afghanistan War veteran and noted suicide prevention advocate who took his own life on March 31, 2011, The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act (H.R. 5059) is another step toward ensuring our nation\u2019s veterans have the support they need by expanding access to and improving the effectiveness of mental health care for our veterans.\nThe Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act will establish a peer support and community outreach pilot program to assist transitioning servicemembers with accessing VA mental health care services.\u00a0 To ease access to services, the bill will require the VA to create a one-stop, interactive website to serve as a centralized source of information regarding all mental health services for veterans.\u00a0 A student loan repayment pilot program aimed at recruiting and retaining psychiatrists included in the legislation will help address the shortage of mental health care professionals.\u00a0 To improve care, the legislation will require an annual, third-party evaluation of all mental health care and suicide prevention practices and programs at the VA to find out what\u2019s working and what\u2019s not.\u00a0\nThe bill was introduced by Representative Tim Walz (D-MN), the highest ranking enlisted soldier ever to serve in Congress and co-authored by Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee Jeff Miller (R-FL) and Representative Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), a Purple Heart recipient, Iraq War veteran, and member of the Army National Guard.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/renaming-the-philadelphia-va", "Renaming the Philadelphia VA", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tuesday, December 9, 2014\n\t\t\t\t Renaming the Philadelphia VA \n\t\t\t\t\n                        by Bob Casey \n                        \n                 \n\t\n\t            \n\t                \n\t                    \n\t                        \n\t                    \n\t                \n\t            \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t  \t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tI am pleased to see that both the Senate and House have approved legislation to rename the Philadelphia VA Medical Center after Corporal Michael J. Crescenz.\u00a0 As an original co-sponsor of this legislation in the Senate, I am proud to see that Corporal Crescenz courageous actions are being appropriately honored as Philadelphia\u2019s only Medal of Honor recipient from the Vietnam War.\r\nRe-naming of the Philadelphia VA Medical Center is a tribute to the heroism of Corporal Michael Crescenz, as well as servicemembers across the country and throughout our history who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep American's safe. As this dedication now moves to the President\u2019s desk for his signature, it will serve as a reminder of the debt of gratitude we all owe to these brave men and women.\r\nHis full Medal of Honor citation is available here.\n\t\t\t\t\n                    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTags:\n                            \n                                \n                                Crescenz,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Philadelphia VA Medical Center,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Veterans", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/following-casey-effort-defense-bill-contains-language-emphasizing-importance-of-counterdrug-centers", "Following Casey Effort, Defense Bill Contains Language Emphasizing Importance of Counterdrug Centers", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Following a major effort by Senator Casey, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which has already passed the House and is likely to pass the Senate this week, contains report language that emphasizes the importance of National Counterdrug Centers. Casey has led the Senate efforts to protect counterdrug centers. The Northeast Counterdrug Center in Fort Indiantown Gap has played a critical role in helping law enforcement across the state in combatting drug trafficking.\r\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that the defense bill contains language that will recognize the important role counterdrug centers play in protecting communities from drug trafficking and aiding law enforcement,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cEarlier this year I visited the Northeast Counterdrug Center in Fort Indiantown Gap and saw firsthand the critical need for these resources. More work needs to be done to ensure the Defense Department identifies a stable funding solution for these Centers that maximizes their ability to train military and law enforcement officers.\u201d \u00a0\r\nThe bill states, \u201cWe note the role of the National Guard Counter-drug mission in ensuring the security of the U.S. Homeland. As part of that mission, the National Guard Counter-drug Schools continue to play an important role in training and educating local, state, and federal law enforcement and other entities on counter-drug-related matters. We recognize the benefits of maintaining and supporting the National Guard counterdrug strategy.\u201d\r\nThe full text of both of Casey\u2019s letters on counterdrug centers is below:\r\nDear Colleague:\r\nWe invite you to sign on to the following letter regarding the National Guard\u2019s Counterdrug Training Centers.\u00a0 The five centers, located across the country, train both military personnel and local law enforcement, and improve interagency cooperation in the fight against narco-trafficking.\u00a0 Strong Congressional support is critical to ensuring that these Centers remain appropriately funded so that they can continue to provide essential training and support.\u00a0\r\nFor the past several years, the President\u2019s Budget has consistently reduced funding for these centers.\u00a0 Each year, through the NDAA and appropriations processes, Congress has emphasized its support for the National Guard\u2019s Counterdrug program and the Centers.\u00a0 A relatively modest investment in the Centers pays dividends for bolstering law enforcement capacity to detect, interdict, disrupt, and curtail the flow of illicit drugs in the United States.\r\nFor additional information about this issue or to sign onto the letter, please contact our office.\r\nSincerely,\r\nSenator Robert P. Casey, Jr.   Senator Charles E. Grassley   Senator Tom Harkin\r\nDear Secretary Hagel:\r\nWe write today as strong supporters of the five Counterdrug Training Centers located throughout the United States that are funded through the National Guard Bureau\u2019s (NGB) Counterdrug Program. Authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 1991, Counterdrug Training Centers provide counter-narcotics training to local law enforcement officials that have subsequently helped combat the flow of narcotics into and throughout the United States.\r\nTo date, the National Guard Training Centers have provided counterdrug training to over 680,923 law enforcement officials. Without these training centers, law enforcement officers would be unable to obtain this valuable training, drastically reducing the United States Northern Command\u2019s (USNORTHCOM) ability to combat narco-terrorism, and diminish the support they provide to other combatant commanders.\r\nTo help facilitate the specialized course requirements, the training centers rely on military and civilian subject matter experts to instruct the courses formulated by DOD and NGB. Courses such as Advanced Undercover Operations, Advanced High Risk Warrant Planning and Execution, and Advanced Narcotics Investigations would not be possible, or worse, a waste of time without these subject matter experts.\r\nWe were disheartened to learn that there are some within OSD who do not view the training of local law enforcement officers as a core mission to homeland defense, and that the use of subject matter experts from the law enforcement community should be discontinued. We were also alarmed to learn that for the first time since the early 90\u2019s, funding for these centers was not requested in the President\u2019s FY15 budget. Congress has continually expressed its support, verbally and through report language, for DOD to continue this mission.\r\nWe respectfully request that the Department of Defense reinforce its view that training law enforcement officials is a core tenet of homeland defense, and reverse the call to phase-out the hiring of subject matter experts to teach counterdrug courses. We also request that DOD make available the funding that was provided in the FY14 Omnibus Appropriations Act for the Counterdrug Training Centers in a timely manner.\r\nThank you for your service and please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of assistance to you.\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.   United States Senator\r\nChuck Grassley   United States Senator\r\nTom Harkin   United States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://doyle.house.gov/press-release/house-votes-name-pittsburgh-federal-courthouse-after-judge-joseph-f-weis-jr", "House Votes to Name Pittsburgh Federal Courthouse After Judge Joseph F. Weis", "2014-12-08", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mike Doyle", "D000482", "doyle.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Doyle (D-PA-14) announced that this afternoon the House of Representatives passed legislation he introduced to name the federal courthouse in Pittsburgh after Judge Joseph F. Weis Jr., who passed away in March.\n\u00a0\n\u201cThroughout his 91 years of life, Joseph F. Weis Jr served our country with humility, integrity, and an unfailing sense of duty,\u201d Congressman Doyle said this afternoon on the House Floor prior to the vote.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cHe enlisted in the Army shortly after Pearl Harbor,\u201d Congressman Doyle noted in recognizing Weis\u2019s exemplary military service. \u201cHe was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor and a Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster after sustaining multiple injuries in combat over the course of his service.\u201d\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cAfter becoming a respected trial lawyer, he was elected to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas in 1968,\u201d Congressman Doyle observed. \u201cAs a judge, he quickly developed a reputation for patience and hard work. He always strove to improve our judicial system, advocating for innovative courtroom technologies and enforcement of judicial ethics. Two years later, Judge Weis was appointed to the federal bench, and in 1973, he was appointed to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, one step below the Supreme Court. He served on the Court for the next 40 years, retiring just last year when he was 90. He was recognized for his outstanding service on the bench with the Devitt Award, the highest honor given to federal judges.\u201d\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cJoseph F. Weis, Jr.\u2019s life is a model all public servants should aspire to emulate,\u201d Representative Doyle concluded. \u201cNaming this federal court house in his honor is a fitting way to recognize his long, faithful and extremely capable service to our country, to inspire trust in the federal justice system - which he served for so long with great integrity - and provide future generations with an outstanding example of a great public servant.\u201d\n\u00a0\nThis legislation, H.R. 5146, was approved by the House by voice vote. It must now be considered by the Senate.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-kicks-off-hour-of-code-at-easton-area-high-school-pushes-for-passage-of-computer-science-jobs-act", "Casey Kicks Off ‘Hour of Code’ at Easton Area High School, Pushes for Passage of Computer Science Jobs Act", "2014-12-08", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Easton PA- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) kicked off an \u2018hour of code\u2019 at Easton Area High School and pushed for passage of his bipartisan Computer Science Jobs and Education Act. Students learned how to code and Casey, joined by the school\u2019s educators, discussed the need to put a greater emphasis on computer science education in schools so Pennsylvania students can compete for future jobs.\r\n\u201cPutting more emphasis on computer science in the classrooms will help students compete for the next generation of jobs.\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cI\u2019m hopeful that in the coming year Congress will move forward on this bipartisan legislation so that learning how to code isn\u2019t a once a year event but a consistent part of what students do throughout the year.\u201d\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nComputer Science Jobs and Education Act\r\nThe Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that in the year 2020, there will be 9.2 million jobs in the STEM fields.\u00a0 Of those jobs, half will be in computing and information technology.\u00a0 That\u2019s 4.6 million jobs\u2014lucrative, important and exciting jobs\u2014waiting for those who choose to study computer science. Despite the economy\u2019s reliance on computer science and the associated need to teach it, only 14 states count it toward a student\u2019s high school graduation requirements. In 2012, just fewer than 3,000 of the country\u2019s 40,000 high schools offered the AP Computer Science exam. Teacher certification processes for computer science teachers are broken or nonexistent, making it difficult to establish and nurture computer science preparation programs or attract computer science talent to a profession that seemingly doesn\u2019t value computer science expertise.\r\nWithout creating any new programs or requiring any new spending, the Computer Science Education Act would clarify that existing and currently funded federal programs should support the teaching and learning of a discipline that offers limitless opportunities to those who study it and support local and state educators who want to put computer science curriculum and teachers in more of the country\u2019s schools.\r\nThe legislation would:\r\n \r\nAmend the definition of \u201ccore academic subjects\u201d in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to add computer science, and define computer science.\r\nExpand the Advanced Placement Incentive Program to include the Advanced Placement computer science class and test.\r\nAmend state plan provisions so that states consider computer science when developing their Title I state improvement plans.\r\nClarify that computer science educators are covered by ESEA\u2019s Math Science Partnerships.\r\nSupport stronger computer science teacher preparation programs.\r\nModify the Noyce Teacher Fellowship program to explicitly include computer science teachers.\r\n \r\nThe bill is endorsed by code.org and Computing in the Core, whose members include: Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology, Association for Computing Machinery, College Board, Computer Science Teachers Association, Computing Research Association, Google, IEEE Computer Society, Microsoft, National Center for Women and Information Technology, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, National Science Teachers Association, Oracle and SAS.\r\nCasey first introduced the bill with Senator Rubio (R-FL) in July 2013. It currently has 5 additional cosponsors including Senators Booker, Feinstein, Murray, Schumer, and Warner.\r\nMore information on the \u2018hour of code\u2019 can be found here: http://hourofcode.com/us#\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/article/the-woes-of-working-women", "The Woes of Working Women", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By:\u00a0\r\n                    Gail Collins\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Friday, December 5, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            Today, let\u2019s take a look at the Little Bill That Couldn\u2019t.\r\nSay hello to the Pregnancy Workers Fairness Act. It\u2019s sort of shy, but if you look over there behind the ottoman, you may see it peeking out.\r\nThe bill would require employers to make \u201creasonable accommodations\u201d for workers who become pregnant. You may be stunned to hear that this does not always happen now in the American workplace. Consider Heather Myers, a floor worker in the infant department at a Walmart in Kansas whose obstetrician told her to drink liquids. She was then fired for bringing a water bottle to work.\r\nThis week, the Supreme Court heard the case of Peggy Young, a United Parcel Service driver who was put on an unpaid disability leave after her doctor told her she should avoid lifting bundles that weighed more than 20 pounds. That was not much of a problem, since Peggy mainly spent her days delivering envelopes. And we know that UPS had the capacity to make reasonable accommodations because it has changed its policy and now makes ... reasonable accommodations.\r\nYoung\u2019s case is getting support from both sides of the great, gaping abortion divide. On the day of her hearing, everybody was united behind working women who wanted to have children.\r\n\u201cI think we\u2019re always looking for common ground, and when we can agree \u2014 it\u2019s magic,\u201d said Marjorie Dannenfelser of the anti-abortion Susan B. Anthony List.\r\n(Hear that, little bill? Come on out. Everybody\u2019s on your side. We\u2019ll take a selfie!)\r\nThis high-minded rapprochement, alas, has not made its way into the halls of Congress. Thirty-three senators have signed onto the Pregnancy Workers Fairness Act, and 142 members of the House. They\u2019re all Democrats.\r\n\u201cThis bill has a lot of support, but it\u2019s not yet bipartisan. That\u2019s the problem,\u201d said Bob Casey of Pennsylvania, the lead sponsor in the Senate.\r\nFor sure, given that the next session of Congress is going to be entirely run by Republicans.\r\nThe lead House sponsor, Jerrold Nadler of New York, says he\u2019s hoping some of the anti-abortion groups who have signed onto Peggy Young\u2019s case will start pressing their congressional allies to come around on a bill that would solve the Peggy Young problem. But, so far, there doesn\u2019t seem to be much progress.\r\nThe Susan B. Anthony List hasn\u2019t taken a position on the matter. \u201cWe have one bill and that\u2019s our priority and that\u2019s kind of the way it works,\u201d said Dannenfelser. This would be the ban on abortions beyond the first 20 weeks of a pregnancy.\r\nNadler, listing what progress there has been, mentioned getting the bill included as \u201cpart of the Democratic women\u2019s agenda \u2014 although it wasn\u2019t mentioned all the time. To my annoyance.\u201d\r\nO.K., not looking good for the Pregnant Workers. Damned bill\u2019s crawled under the couch.\r\nEmily Martin, vice president of the National Women\u2019s Law Center, has been lobbying for the bill, and she says she\u2019s had meetings with Republican lawmakers that were \u201cvery positive,\u201d in a no-action kind of way. \u201cIt\u2019s been hard to get somebody to take the leap to be the first Republican,\u201d she said.\r\nThis is the way politics goes. Nobody\u2019s making you do it, so you don\u2019t. Anyway, businesses probably wouldn\u2019t like it. (The U.S. Women\u2019s Chamber of Commerce is listed as a supporter. This is not to be confused with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which hasn\u2019t taken a position. \u201cYou\u2019ll find that on the majority of issues, we\u2019re on the opposite side of the table,\u201d said Margot Dorfman, who leads the women\u2019s group.)\r\nWhat we have here is a bill that\u2019s been kicking around for more than a year, during which time a multitude of Democrats have signed on without making any superhuman efforts to win over their Republican colleagues. The Republicans, who have been complaining mightily about being branded anti-women during the election season, have been making quiet murmurs of agreement but don\u2019t want to go out of their way to promote something the Democrats started.\r\nAnd here we are, in a country where more than two-thirds of mothers work, most of them full time. We have interesting debates about whether young mothers should opt out of the workplace, ignoring that most of them have no option whatsoever on the opting question.\r\nOur institutions cheerfully refuse to restructure themselves to reflect the fact that most families do not contain a non-working parent. Congress has been debating early education programs for more than 40 years and it has hardly made a dent. A great many of our employers don\u2019t bother to make jobs more family-friendly; they don\u2019t even bother to make modest arrangements to accommodate their pregnant workers. Everybody thinks this is extremely unfortunate, but almost nobody does anything about it because there is not a lot of political or financial reward for siding with working mothers.\r\nO.K., rant is over. Sorry, I think I scared the little bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pushes-for-passage-of-able-act-next-week-so-families-who-have-a-child-with-a-disability-can-better-pay-for-their-long-term-care", "Casey Pushes for Passage of ABLE Act Next Week So Families Who Have a Child with a Disability Can Better Pay for Their Long Term Care", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Philadelphia, PA \u2013 Following a bipartisan vote in the House of Representatives, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called on the Senate to take up and pass the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act that will allow families who have a child with a disability to save for their long-term care through 529-style savings accounts. Casey was joined by Philly-area advocates and one of the nation\u2019s leading advocates for the ABLE Act \u2013 Scranton native Sara Wolff. Casey has led the Senate effort on the bill that now has 77 Senate cosponsors and stands on the brink of passage. The bill, which has been called \u201cthe broadest legislation to help the disabled in nearly a quarter-century,\u201d could be taken up by the Senate in the coming days.\r\n\u201cThe House\u2019s overwhelming vote in favor of the ABLE Act was a major step forward that I believe will propel the bill to pass the Senate this week,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cThis legislation will help countless families save for the long term care of their loved ones with disabilities.\u201d\r\nThe legislation would amend Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Service Code to allow use of tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. The bill, first introduced in 2006, would ease financial strains faced by individuals with disabilities by making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified expenses such as education, housing, medical, and transportation. The bill would supplement, but not supplant, benefits provided through private insurance, the Medicaid program, the beneficiary\u2019s employment, and other sources.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-the-nomination-of-dr-ashton-carter-as-secretary-of-defense", "Casey Statement on the Nomination of Dr. Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the National Security Working group and former Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee\u2019s Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs, released the following statement on President Obama\u2019s nomination of Dr. Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense.\r\n\u201cI welcome the President's nomination of Dr. Ash Carter, a Philadelphia area native, as the next Secretary of Defense. Having served in the Department of Defense in multiple administrations, he knows firsthand the challenges facing our nation and the Department. I particularly appreciate his strong commitment to our men and women in uniform, and their families.\u00a0 He is well qualified for this role.\r\nThis is a critical time for our national security: the threat of ISIS in the Middle East, Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability, the brutality of the Assad regime in Syria, Russian aggression in its neighborhood, the transition in Afghanistan.\u00a0 I look forward to talking with Dr. Carter during his confirmation process and hearing his plans for tackling these challenges while ensuring our servicemembers have the resources they need to complete their missions and return home safely. I also plan to ask Dr. Carter about how we can better support servicemembers transitioning out of combat roles and into civilian life.\u201d\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/senators-casey-toomey-announce-confirmation-of-joseph-leeson-to-pa-eastern-district-court", "Senators Casey, Toomey Announce Confirmation of Joseph Leeson to PA Eastern District Court", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Pat Toomey (R-PA) praised the Senate's confirmation of Joseph Leeson as a federal judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.\u00a0 Mr. Leeson was nominated by President Obama in June.\r\n\u201cI am pleased that the Senate has come together in a bipartisan fashion to confirm Joseph Leeson to the federal bench,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cJay Leeson is an outstanding lawyer with extensive experience and an excellent record. In addition to having a highly respected career in the practice of law, he has also demonstrated an abiding commitment to public service. I\u2019m confident he will serve the Eastern District of Pennsylvania with distinction.\u201d\r\n\"I am thrilled that Jay Leeson will soon join Judge James Knoll Gardner in Allentown as a district court judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania,\" said Senator Toomey. \"For the first time, the Allentown courthouse will have two sitting federal district court judges. This is a great day for the city, and I am confident that Mr. Leeson will excel on the federal bench. I will continue working with Senator Casey to recommend well-qualified judges to serve the people of Pennsylvania.\"\r\nIn the last three and a half years, Senators Casey and Toomey have worked together, in a bipartisan fashion, to recommend to the President accomplished jurists\u00a0of high ability and integrity to preside in the federal courts of Pennsylvania.\u00a0 With Mr. Leeson, they have now confirmed 14 Pennsylvania district court judges to the federal bench.\u00a0\r\nJoseph Leeson\r\nJoseph Leeson has been a partner at Leeson & Leeson in Bethlehem since 1980.\u00a0 He was the Bethlehem City Solicitor from 1998 to 2004 and he served as a member of the Bethlehem City Council from 2004 to 2010.\u00a0 Born in Allentown, Mr. Leeson received his undergraduate degree from DeSales University and his law degree from Catholic University School of Law.\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 Steve Kelly (Toomey) 717-782-3951", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-ribble-introduce-legislation-to-promote-college-savings", "Cartwright, Ribble Introduce Legislation to Promote College Savings", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressmen Matt Cartwright (PA-17) and Reid Ribble (WI-08) introduced the bipartisan Children\u2019s Savings Accounts Offer Parents Plenty of Reasons to Understand aNd Invest in Tuition Yearly (CSA OPPORTUNITY) Act with the support of six House colleagues.\nOne well known type of Children\u2019s Savings Account (CSA) is the 529 plan.\u00a0 Created in 1996, 529 Plans allow parents to save money for college while offering both federal and state tax benefits.\u00a0 Unfortunately, money set aside in a 529 Plan counts against the asset limitations set forth in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Low Income High Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).\nThis in turn forces families to choose between putting aside money for college and keeping essential benefits.\n\u201cCollege savings accounts alter the aspirations of children by sending a message that they should expect more from their own futures.\u00a0 Yet, when we force parents to choose between saving for college and keeping the lights on, we essentially punish financial responsibly,\u201d Rep. Cartwright said.\u00a0 \u201cWe should end this difficult decision for families and provide the opportunity for all families to save for their children\u2019s education.\u201d\n\u201cWhen government makes it difficult for families to save money, they tend not to save money, and the cycle of poverty continues. This legislation would help remove barriers that prevent parents from providing opportunities for their children\u2019s future.\u00a0 We need to help break the cycle of poverty that passes from one generation to the next and by removing this arbitrary cap on savings we can help in that transition. Every parent wants to provide a better future for their children, government policy shouldn't work against that,\u201d Rep. Ribble stated.\nAndrea Levere, President of the Corporation for Enterprise Development (CFED), endorsed the legislation. \u201cParents shouldn\u2019t have to choose between affording basic necessities and saving for their children\u2019s education. Rep. Cartwright and Rep. Ribble have demonstrated exemplary leadership in coming together to introduce a bipartisan bill that will expand opportunity for families throughout the country.\u201d\nThe CSA OPPORTUNITY Act would exempt 529 Plans from TANF, SSI, and LIHEAP asset limitations.\u00a0 The bill would also exempt non-529 CSAs from TANF, SSI, LIHEAP, and Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) asset limitations.\nOver 1.3 million American children born each year \u2013 and more than half of minority children \u2013 are born into families with negligible savings to invest in their futures. \u00a0Yet research and practice have shown that even a small amount of savings increases the likelihood that a child will attend college.\u00a0 One study showed that children from low or moderate income families who saved between $1 and $500 were three times more likely to attend college and four times more likely to graduate than those without savings.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-and-burrs-able-act-passes-house", "Casey and Burr’s ABLE Act Passes House", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Richard Burr (R-NC) released statements following the House\u2019s bipartisan vote in favor of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act. The bill will allow families who have a child with a disability to save for their long-term care through 529-style savings accounts.\r\nSenator Casey: \u201cThe ABLE Act has never been closer to getting to the President\u2019s desk and I\u2019m increasingly hopeful we\u2019ll get it there during this session. From the beginning the power of these families who want to save for their loved ones\u2019 long term care has propelled the ABLE Act forward. It\u2019s now time for the Senate to take this legislation up and provide families who have a child with a disability the added security they need.\u201d\r\nSenator Burr: \u201cI am incredibly pleased that the House passed the ABLE Act this evening.\u00a0 Families of individuals with disabilities often face overwhelming financial burdens associated with the expensive costs of healthcare, education, housing and transportation,\u201d Burr said.\u00a0 \u201cThe ABLE Act will make it easier for parents of disabled individuals to invest in their child\u2019s future, thereby opening the door to a world of opportunities. I am confident the Senate will swiftly pass the ABLE Act\u201d\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 Rachel Hicks (Burr) 202-228-1616", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-announces-initiative-to-promote-safety-security-and-rights-of-afghan-women-and-children-included-in-ndaa", "Casey Announces Initiative to Promote Safety, Security and Rights of Afghan Women and Children Included in NDAA", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that language from his amendment to promote the safety, security, and rights of Afghanistan\u2019s women and children has been included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). During a critical period of transition in Afghanistan, the bill urges the Administration to work with the Government of Afghanistan on a host of protections for women and children. \u00a0\r\nThe provision seeks to increase the number of women serving in the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police; ensure accountability mechanisms for ANA and ANP personnel relating to the treatment of women and girls; calls on the Department of Defense to assist in the development of a plan to bolster and train the Afghan National Police\u2019s Family Response Units who are specifically trained to combat domestic violence; and to ensure women can vote in the 2015 Parliamentary elections. In 2014, women in Afghanistan turned out in historic numbers, despite serious security concerns.\r\n\u201cAlthough significant progress has been made in women\u2019s rights and security, there are still far too many horrific incidences of violence against women and children,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cOur servicemembers made tremendous sacrifices to bring Afghanistan to where it is today. During my recent trip to the Oslo Symposium on Women\u2019s Rights and Empowerment in Afghanistan, I emphasized that the rights of Afghan women and girls are not negotiable. Sustaining and solidifying these gains is consistent with both American values and national security interests.\u201d\r\nThis provision urges the Department of Defense to continue working with the Afghan National Security Forces to promote the security of Afghan women and girls during the transition process. Specifically, it would:\r\n \r\nPrioritize the recruitment and retention of women in the Afghan National Security Forces. Calls on the Secretary of Defense to support and encourage the Government of Afghanistan in their development and implementation of a strategy in cooperation with the Afghan Ministries of Defense and Interior to increase the number of female members of the Afghan National Army (ANA) and Afghan National Police (ANP) and to ensure their equal treatment. It also urges the Department of Defense to assist in the development of accountability mechanisms for ANA and ANP personnel relating to the treatment of women and girls. This would include the provision of appropriate equipment for female security and police forces; modification of facilities to allow for female participation; and training to include literacy training for women recruits and gender awareness training for male counterparts.\r\n \r\n \r\nSupport police units that are specially trained to work with female or adolescent victims. This includes assistance in the development of plan to increase the number of female security officers specifically trained to address cases of gender-based violence, including ensuring the Afghan National Police\u2019s Family Response Units (FRUs) have the necessary resources and are available to women across Afghanistan.\r\n \r\n \r\nEnsure the adequate staffing of polling stations by female officers. This provision emphasizes the need to maintain the female searcher capabilities that were established for the April 2014 presidential elections for the 2015 parliamentary elections.\r\n \r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/senate-confirms-pair-of-pa-eastern-district-judicial-nominees-12-03", "Senate Confirms Pair of PA Eastern District Judicial Nominees", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) today praised the Senate's confirmation of Mark Kearney and Jerry Pappert as federal judges for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.\u00a0 Mr. Kearney and Mr. Pappert were nominated by President Obama in June.\r\n\u201cI am pleased that the Senate has come together in a bipartisan fashion to confirm Mark Kearney and Jerry Pappert to the federal bench,\u201d said Sen. Casey. \u201cBoth of these newly confirmed judges are outstanding lawyers with extensive experience and excellent records. Mark Kearney has had a highly successful career as a trial attorney and as a managing shareholder of his law firm. Jerry Pappert\u2019s legal career as a federal litigator and as a former Attorney General of Pennsylvania has made him an excellent choice for the federal bench. I\u2019m confident both will serve the Eastern District of Pennsylvania well.\u201d\r\n\u201cI am pleased that the Senate has confirmed Mark Kearney and Jerry Pappert as U.S. District Court judges for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania,\u201d said Sen. Toomey. \u201cBoth have enjoyed distinguished legal careers and have demonstrated strong commitments to serving their communities.\u00a0 I am confident that both Mr. Kearney and Mr. Pappert have the legal experience, acumen, and commitment to upholding the law that will make them excellent additions to the federal bench.\u201d\r\nIn the last three and a half years, Senators Casey and Toomey have worked together, in a bipartisan fashion, to recommend to the President accomplished jurists\u00a0of high ability and integrity to preside in the federal courts of Pennsylvania.\u00a0 With Mr. Kearney and Mr. Pappert\u2019s successful confirmation coupled with Wendy Beetlestone\u2019s confirmation last month, they have now confirmed 13 Pennsylvania district court judges to the federal bench.\u00a0\r\nMark Kearney\r\nMark Kearney is a managing shareholder at Elliott Greenleaf & Siedzikowski, P.C. in Blue Bell.\u00a0 Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Kearney received both his\u00a0undergraduate degree and his law degree from Villanova University.\u00a0\r\nMr. Kearney currently serves as the President of the Pennsylvania Bar Institute.\u00a0 He is also on the Board of Consultors to Villanova Law School and is on the board of directors of Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania.\r\nGerald Pappert\r\n\u00a0\r\nGerald \u201cJerry\u201d Pappert is a partner at the Cozen O\u2019Connor law firm in Philadelphia.\u00a0 He is a former Attorney General of Pennsylvania.\u00a0 He received his undergraduate degree from Villanova University and his law degree from the University of Notre Dame Law School.\u00a0\r\nMr. Pappert is also the chairman of the Pennsylvania Banking & Securities Commission.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) (202) 228-6367 Steve Kelly (Toomey) (717) 782-3951", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/senators-casey-shaheen-urge-supreme-court-to-protect-expecting-mothers", "Senators Casey, Shaheen Urge Supreme Court to Protect Expecting Mothers", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 This morning, as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear oral arguments in Peggy Young v. UPS, a pregnancy discrimination case, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) called on the Court to protect working pregnant women across the United States. The case could determine whether and when the Pregnancy Discrimination Act requires an employer to make reasonable accommodations for a pregnant worker out of a medical need.\r\n\u201cWomen make up nearly half of the workforce, and in Pennsylvania, approximately 96,000 women in the workforce give birth each year,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cToo many women still face discrimination in the workplace during pregnancy as some employers continue to refuse to provide reasonable accommodations. No woman should be forced out of a job because she is pregnant. Every employer should work to provide accommodations that will allow women to keep working safely through their pregnancies.\u201d\r\n\u201cA woman should never have to face a choice between her job and pregnancy,\u201d Senator Shaheen said. \u201cWomen are a crucial part of our workforce, and they have every right to receive reasonable workplace accommodations to continue a healthy pregnancy while providing for their families and contributing to the economy.\u201d\u00a0\r\nCasey and Shaheen are authors of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), legislation which would strengthen the rights of pregnant workers to request accommodations during their pregnancy without fear of retribution. In September, Casey and Shaheen led 123 members of Congress in filing an amicus curiae brief to the Supreme Court on behalf of Peggy Young.\u00a0 In her case, Young v. UPS, Ms. Young argues that she was discriminated against in the workplace when her employer refused to provide modifications to her job that would have allowed her to continue working during her pregnancy, even though similar modifications were routinely provided to other employees with similar ability or inability to work.\r\nYoung v. UPS\r\nAccording to Ms. Young\u2019s case, accommodations were routinely given to workers with temporary injuries, but when Peggy Young asked for an accommodation to comply with her doctor\u2019s recommendation that she not lift boxes over 20 pounds due to her pregnancy, her employer denied the request. Ms. Young challenged her employer in court alleging that her employer violated the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. Unfortunately, Young lost her case in the lower courts.\r\nPregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)\r\nThe PWFA would secure the right of a pregnant worker to ask for workplace accommodations without fear of retribution. Today, women make up nearly half of the labor force, and three-quarters of women entering the workforce will be pregnant and employed at some point in their careers.\r\nCurrently, pregnant working women around the country are being denied simple adjustments \u2013 permission to use a stool while working a cash register, or to carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated, or temporary reassignment to lighter duty tasks \u2013 that would keep them working and supporting their families while maintaining healthy pregnancies. The legislation will close legal loopholes and ensure that pregnant women are treated fairly on the job.\r\nSome states have passed laws like the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act to ensure that pregnant workers have on-the-job protections, but millions of women are vulnerable to this type of workplace discrimination.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-bipartisan-group-of-senators-call-on-postal-service-to-postpone-closings", "Casey, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on Postal Service to Postpone Closings", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) along with a bipartisan group of over 30 Senate colleagues, called for a delay in the planned consolidation of up to 82 U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail processing facilities after the USPS Inspector General found the Postal Service failed to fulfil its obligations to adequately study the impact of the consolidations, and failed to inform the public of those impacts.\r\n\u201cWe strongly urge the USPS to delay implementation of any mail processing consolidations until feasibility studies are completed and there has been adequate time for public comment and consideration of those comments,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cCompleted feasibility studies should include service standard impacts worksheets based on the revised service standards expected to be published on January 5, 2015. There is no reason that the USPS cannot delay its consolidations to provide time for the public to see and comment on the service standard worksheets. It is only fair to allow the process to unfold in this way, and the USPS gains little by deciding to continue the consolidation process on its current, arbitrary timeline.\u201d\r\nThe text of the letter is below:\r\nThe Honorable Patrick R. Donahoe\r\nPostmaster General\r\nUnited States Postal Service\r\nDear Mr. Postmaster General:\r\nOn June 30, 2014, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced plans to implement Phase 2 of its Network Rationalization Initiatives (NRI) starting in January 2015.\u00a0 Phase 2 includes the consolidation of up to 82 mail processing facilities. According to the USPS Office of Inspector General (IG), the USPS failed to fulfil its regulatory obligations to adequately study the impact of these consolidations on service standards and inform the public of these impacts.\u00a0 We strongly urge the USPS to delay the start of any closures until such studies have been fully completed and those affected by the consolidations are adequately informed and their concerns heard.\r\nAs described in the USPS\u2019s own Area Mail Processing Guidelines, the first two objectives of an area mail processing (AMP) feasibility study are to \u201cevaluate service standard impacts for all classes of mail\u201d and to \u201cconsider issues important to local customers.\u201d[1]\u00a0 In addition, the USPS must:\r\n \r\nProvide adequate public notice to communities affected by a proposed network rationalization decision;\r\nMake available information about any service changes in the affected communities, any effects on customers or Postal Service employees, and any cost savings;\r\nAfford affected persons ample opportunity to provide input on the proposed decision; and\r\nTake public comments into account in making a final decision.[2]\r\n \r\nNevertheless, the USPS IG found that the Postal Service failed to complete the service standard impacts evaluation and worksheet in 91 of the 95 AMP feasibility studies related to the NRI.\u00a0 Without these completed worksheets, it impossible to fully understand the effects of consolidation decisions or adequately inform local customers and consider issues important to them.\u00a0\r\nAccording to the IG report, the USPS claims that it did not conduct the required evaluation because it is in the process of revising service standards.\u00a0 This revision, which began in 2012, is expected to be complete with the issuance of new service standards on January 5, 2015, just days before the consolidations are scheduled to begin.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\nThe USPS refutes the IG report by stating that it met its transparency requirements.\u00a0 The language included in each AMP package states only that \u201c[s]pecific service standard changes associated with this Area Mail Processing consolidation are contingent upon the resolution\u201d of the rulemaking process to broadly revise service standards.[3]\u00a0 This language in no way meets the USPS\u2019 own definition of public requirements to \u201cmake available information about any service changes in the affected communities.\u201d\u00a0 Rather, the language in the AMP is so vague and uninformative as to be meaningless to the public.\u00a0 The purpose of public disclosure is to inform.\u00a0 This statement contains no useful information whatsoever.\r\nIt stands to reason that, if the USPS is aware that its own AMP process was incomplete, it could simply adjust its own timeline to ensure that the process is fair, complete, open and transparent.\u00a0 The process exists for a reason, and it should be implemented correctly before any consolidations occur.\u00a0\r\nWe strongly urge the USPS to delay implementation of any mail processing consolidations until feasibility studies are complete and there has been adequate time for public comment and consideration of those comments.\u00a0 Completed feasibility studies should include service standard impacts worksheets based on the revised service standards expected to be published on January 5, 2015.\u00a0 There is no reason that the USPS cannot delay its consolidations to provide time for the public to see and comment on the service standard worksheets.\u00a0 It is only fair to allow the process to unfold in this way, and the USPS gains little by deciding to continue the consolidation process on its current, arbitrary timeline.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sincerely,\r\n###\r\n    \r\n\r\n[1] United States Postal Service Handbook PO-408, Area Mail Processing Guidelines (March 2008).\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n[3] Memorandum from Robert J. Batta, Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Mission Operations, Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Service to David E. Williams, Jr., Vice President, Network Operations, United States Postal Service, Management Alert \u2013 Lack of Service Standard Change Information in Area Mail Processing Feasibility Studies (Oct. 6, 2014) (NO-MA-15-001).\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pepper-spray-program-to-protect-prison-workers-expands", "Casey: Pepper Spray Program to Protect Prison Workers Expands", "2014-12-01", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that a pilot program to equip prison workers with pepper spray will expand to six new medium security facilities including Pennsylvania\u2019s Allenwood, as well as giving access to pepper spray to recreational, food service, and other employees who regularly interact with inmates. The program, which is run by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), closely mirrors legislation Casey introduced in the wake of the death of Northeastern Pennsylvania prison officer Eric Williams. Casey successfully urged BOP to launch a pepper spray pilot program for high security prisons that eventually expanded nationwide.\r\n\u201cThis announcement is a step in the right direction that will increase the safety of prison workers,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cIt\u2019s critical that Congress pass legislation that would make this pilot program permanent and ensure prison officers across the country have the tools they need to stay safe on the job.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThe Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report in 2011 finding that some state correctional facilities that allow guards to carry pepper spray saw reduced assault rates as a result of the policy. Until 2012\u2019s Casey-backed pilot program for high security prisons was initiated, BOP had barred all correctional officers from carrying pepper spray.\r\nSenator Casey introduced the Federal Correctional Officer Protective Equipment Act to carry out GAO\u2019s recommendation that BOP hold a pilot program to determine the effectiveness of the policy. In June 2012, the Lewisburg facility was chosen to participate in a limited pilot program.\u00a0 In March 2013, the Bureau of Prisons announced that guards at all high security facilities will have access to this form of protection, including the Allenwood and Canaan prisons, located in Pennsylvania.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-urges-aldi-to-protect-over-1600-pa-jobs-as-it-prepares-to-acquire-bottom-dollar-grocery-stores", "Casey Urges Aldi to Protect Over 1,600 PA Jobs As It Prepares to Acquire Bottom Dollar Grocery Stores", "2014-12-01", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has urged Aldi to protect 1,600 Pennsylvania jobs as it prepares to acquire Bottom Dollar Grocery Stores at the end of the year. Bottom Dollar has 46 stores in Pennsylvania, and over 1,600 jobs could be lost when the takeover is complete. Aldi has not yet announced whether potentially shuttered stores could reopen or whether any laid off worker would be eligible for rehire. In a letter to Aldi\u2019s President, Casey urged the company to keep Bottom Dollar Stores in Pennsylvania open and protect the region\u2019s jobs.\r\n\u201cOur state\u2019s workforce has earned its reputation as one of the most highly skilled in the country. I\u2019m hopeful that Aldi will consider the quality of our region\u2019s workforce and protect these jobs,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cKeeping these stores open will provide communities across Pennsylvania with the option to purchase fresh food and add to economic growth.\u201d\r\nThe full text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\nDear Mr. Hart:\r\nI write today with regards to ALDI, Inc.\u2019s recent purchase of the Bottom Dollar grocery store chain in Pennsylvania.\u00a0There have been news reports that ALDI, Inc. will close all Bottom Dollar stores. The closure of the Bottom Dollar stores will have a negative impact on the Commonwealth and could result in the loss of more than 1,600 jobs. With the holiday season upon us, I urge you to review this decision.\r\nI have serious concerns about how this recent acquisition would affect the employees of the Bottom Dollar grocery stores. I encourage you to give serious consideration to any option that will protect the over 1,600 jobs at stake and preserve Bottom Dollar\u2019s current locations in the Commonwealth. I look forward to any opportunity to work with you to develop these options, and any federal programs that may be relevant.\r\nIf there is any way that I can be of assistance to keep these jobs, please contact me or have the appropriate staff person contact my office. I appreciate your attention to this important matter.\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/afghan-restaurant-is-a-symbol-of-cooperation-for-womens-rights", "Afghan restaurant is a symbol of cooperation for women's rights", "2014-11-30", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "At a time when most foreign news is unremittingly grim, I have a good-news story to tell - about the first women-only restaurant in western Afghanistan, called the Scranton Restaurant.\r\nThat name reflects the fact that the restaurant is a joint project of a noted woman activist in Herat, Afghanistan, and her counterparts in Scranton, Pa., who raised $20,000 to get the restaurant started. The Scranton Restaurant is a rare place where Afghan women, young and old, can socialize outside their homes in safety.\r\nThis project reminds us that those who care about the rights of Afghan women need to be vigilant as U.S. troops exit. Many cynics assume there is no way to help Afghan women retain the gains they've made, since the Taliban are making inroads. That's untrue. There are courageous Afghan women who will fight to keep those gains, as they have in Herat, especially if Western governments and citizens continue to help.\r\nThe Scranton Restaurant was the brainchild of Suraya Pakzad, who heads the Voice of Women Organization, which runs five shelters for battered or abused women in western Afghanistan. I have visited one of her shelters in Herat, near the Iranian border, and met her gutsy staff and the grateful women who have found protection inside its walls. It takes courage to run such a shelter, where the families of abused women may try to snatch them, or may threaten staff. Pakzad and her family have been threatened.\r\n\r\nBut she has continued her work, with her husband's support. She conceived of the restaurant, she told me by phone, as \"one way to create jobs for the women in the shelter, who could come to the restaurant and learn skills.\" She obtained land from the city, and had help from the Finnish government in building a structure, but needed funds to equip, and start up the operation.\r\nEnter the women of Scranton. Lawyer Judith Price was \"enraged\" when she saw a 2012 video of the Taliban executing a young Afghan woman. \"I felt that we who are educated and empowered have to support those women,\" Price told me. She contacted Sondra Myers, a senior fellow at Scranton University, who, along with Sen. Bob Casey (D., Pa.), has a strong interest in Afghan women; both knew Pakzad, who had visited Pennsylvania and had won a State Department award. They made the Afghan connection, and Price organized two benefits that raised nearly $20,000 for the restaurant start-up. Voila! The women of Herat had a place to meet.\r\nWhat's so important about this restaurant, says Pakzad, is that it gives young and old women a place to hold meetings, parties, or other social gatherings. Women students can sip coffee between classes, safe from male harassment. (Men are banned, except for a small window where they can order takeout.)\r\nThe girls' mothers usually come to check the place out, but word has spread that it is safe and reputable. And the women from the shelter are now doing catering jobs out of the restaurant premises. Women from other cities are asking Pakzad if she can help them set up female-only restaurants in their towns, and she hopes to start a second one soon.\r\nPakzad worries about the future of Afghan women when NATO troops leave, although she is pleased that President Obama has delayed the exit of the last few thousand American troops. \"This gave me hope,\" she says. \"We also had more hope,\" she says, when the new Afghan president, Ashraf Ghani, gave approval for a small U.S. advisory force to stay on, something the previous president, Hamid Karzai, refused to do.\r\nBut Pakzad worries that Afghan government efforts to hold peace talks with the Taliban may sell out women. The international aid group Oxfam just issued a report that details how Afghan women have been systematically excluded from Afghan government efforts to start such talks. \"This was our concern from the beginning,\" Pakzad says, \"that women were not included.\"\r\nThe Afghan Higher Peace Council has 61 male members, but only nine females, who have been marginalized. \"We should be at the table to see that they don't compromise women's rights,\" Pakzad says.\r\nTo strengthen women's voices, Pakzad wants to start a leadership training institute for women. Many Afghan women have extensive organizing experience, she says, but have never earned degrees and so can't rise up in government positions. She'd like to see older women get credit for five to seven years of experience and be able to graduate in two years.\r\nUSAID, the State Department's aid organization, has just launched a five-year, $216 million program to focus on the education and training of Afghan women. A women's leadership institute would seem to fit right into that program.\r\nSuch continuing U.S. government aid to Afghan women will be vital. But it is women activists like those in Scranton who can keep the government's attention focused on Afghan women when other crises devour U.S. attention; they can also establish links to help Afghan women directly. The Scranton Restaurant is a potent symbol of the difference such grassroots efforts can make.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/women-only-restaurant-in-afghanistan-gets-assist-from-us-sen-bob-casey", "Women-only restaurant in Afghanistan gets assist from U.S. Sen. Bob Casey", "2014-11-29", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By:\u00a0\r\n                    Laura Olson\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Saturday, November 29, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            WASHINGTON\u00a0\u2014 Halfway around the world, in western Afghanistan, the sign for a recently opened eatery bears a familiar name below its Arabic script: \"Scranton Restaurant,\" it reads in both languages.\r\nThe northeastern Pennsylvania city's moniker ended up on the country's first female-only restaurant after a series of Scrantonians \u2014 from Vice President Joe Biden to Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey to dozens of local donors \u2014 helped scrape together money and other assistance that allowed the owner to open its doors in Herat Province.\r\nFor Casey, the restaurant's development was a tangible example of an issue he repeatedly spoke out on during his time on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The Democratic lawmaker has advocated for aiding Afghan women who saw their rights to work and go to school diminish under the Taliban regime.\r\nWhen Casey met Suraya Pakzad, a 42-year-old activist who runs a nonprofit that provides shelter, job training and literacy classes to Afghan women, her resolve to restore the rights of women in her country left an impression on him.\r\nShe's experienced firsthand the struggles the senator has highlighted in speeches and legislation. Those who work with her describe how Pakzad began teaching girls in her home after the Taliban banned such classes, a risky decision that carried with it potentially grave consequences.\r\nPakzad has drawn international recognition for her work. She received an International Women of Courage award from the U.S. State Department and was recognized by Time magazine in 2009 as one of the world's most influential people.\r\nShe \"has a quiet but burning desire to help women in Afghanistan who face the kind of discrimination or oppression or opposition and real degradation sometimes that we can't even imagine,\" Casey said in a mid-November interview.\r\nWhile Afghan women have regained some ground since 2001, when U.S. troops removed the Taliban government from power, they continue to face significant societal obstacles, according to a recent survey by the Asia Foundation, a San Francisco-based international development organization.\r\nThe researchers found that an increasing number of Afghan woman are working outside the home, but that the shift may be due more to economic necessity than to any broader cultural shift. Jobs in certain fields, like the military and police, remain mostly closed to women.\r\nWomen also face challenges in parts of the country where forced marriages and honor killings are still practiced, and where they are less likely to have control over their own income, according to the survey.\r\nCasey and Pakzad met during a 2010 event in Montgomery County, but it wasn't until about two years later that her idea for an all-women restaurant got underway. The business was to become a training center for women with little work experience or professional skills, as well as a meeting center for women in the male-dominated country.\r\nPakzad began working with two Scranton women \u2014 Sondra Myers, a senior fellow for international, civic and cultural projects at the University of Scranton, and attorney Judith Price. She told the women that while she had access to a building that could house the restaurant, she would need help raising money to buy equipment, furniture and other supplies.\r\nPrice, a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Allentown, said the women asked how much Pakzad would need and got to work.\r\nCasey lent a hand, giving the effort credibility and the ability to tap some of his supporters. He and his wife, Terese, co-chaired fundraisers in the area, including one at the home of Myers, a neighbor.\r\nCasey said working with Pakzad flowed naturally from his work on international women's rights in the Senate, which included adding a provision to the National Defense Authorization Act in 2013 aimed at increasing the number of female security personnel in Afghanistan.\r\nHe pointed to the increasing number of girls attending school in Afghanistan, describing that shift as an outcome that has positive results for the United States as well.\r\n\"I think it's a gain for all of us, because it creates a foundation that will lead to less terrorism, less extremism, when kids are in school, when they have economic security, when they can live a full life,\" Casey said.\r\nHis Scranton-area neighbors seem to have agreed. Pakzad's supporters there eventually raised $18,000, which allowed her to begin serving customers in October.\r\nPrice and the others found significant interest in the area as they detailed Pakzad's project, but also some trepidation. A few potential donors were concerned about whether the restaurant would become a target for the Taliban, endangering the women they were trying to help.\r\nPrice recalled Pakzad's response when asked about possible risks: \"She answered very eloquently, saying 'We have to show them we're not afraid.' \"\r\nIn addition to the fundraising help, Pakzad's relationship with Casey also allowed her to make other high-profile American connections.\r\nOne of her trips to the United States coincided with an appearance by President Barack Obama and Biden in Scranton last year. Casey ensured that Pakzad got to briefly meet Obama and then have a longer chat with Biden after the event.\r\n\"It was the best conversation and [it] had a good impact in my work,\" Pakzad wrote in an email.\r\nPakzad said she named the restaurant after the city that helped as a signal of her gratitude for the money and interest that came from northeastern Pennsylvania.\r\nPakzad said the business is thriving, and that frequently its six tables are too few for the steady flow of customers. (Male customers aren't completely excluded \u2014 they can order food outside from a walk-up window, she said.)\r\nShe gets asked several times a day when she'll be opening a second location. The group of Scranton women are organizing more help for that effort, and hope for a fundraiser in Philadelphia. They also are seeking to assist with her plan for a women's leadership institute, which would help mentor female candidates for public office.\r\nCasey, who has traveled to Afghanistan three times, has never been to the western province that Pakzad calls home. He says he'd like to visit Pakzad and see the restaurant, but in the meantime, he's taking her story on the road with him.\r\nThe issue of women's rights took him to an international conference in Norway last weekend. In talks like that one, Pakzad is now part of the pitch, giving a face to the policies that he describes.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/article/the-us-plan-to-destroy-the-islamic-state-must-also-take-down-bashar-al-assad", "The U.S. plan to destroy the Islamic State must also take down Bashar al-Assad", "2014-11-27", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By:\u00a0\r\n                    Bob Casey\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Thursday, November 27, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            President Obama made the right decision to review the U.S. strategy against the Islamic State. Two months ago, he laid out a comprehensive strategy for\u00a0degrading and ultimately defeating\u00a0the brutal terrorist organization. His administration has started to implement that strategy, making progress through airstrikes, support for local groups ready to combat Islamic State fighters, diplomacy and sanctions enforcement.\r\nHowever, I am concerned that our strategy lacks two important elements: a recognition that the Assad regime in Syria also must go and a strategy to address the underlying issues that created the space for the Islamic State to emerge and metastasize. As the administration reassesses, I urge the president to incorporate these elements into the strategy.\r\nThe Islamic State must be our top focus in the region; it presents the clearest and most pressing threat to our national security interests and those of our partners. However, I am concerned that the administration has turned its attention away from our previous goal: bringing about the end of the oppressive, violent rule of Bashar al-Assad. Now is the time for the administration to take a hard look at where this conflict started: in deep-seated grievances against oppressive national governments in Damascus and Baghdad.\r\nMore than three years ago, after the Damascus regime\u2019s brutal crackdown on peaceful protesters\u00a0in Hama, I\u00a0called for Assad to step down. Others,including the president, soon followed. Since then, the scale and viciousness of the regime\u2019s attacks against the Syrian people have only multiplied. As the world has focused on the Islamic State, the Syrian regime has continued to rain \u201cbarrel bombs\u201d on civilian enclaves and schools \u2014 in direct violation of a\u00a0U.N. Security Council prohibition\u00a0of such attacks \u2014 to torture and brutalize suspected dissenters, to\u00a0use chlorine gasin attacks and\u00a0to starve innocent civilians\u00a0into submission. The regime has survived, in part, because of strong backing in the United Nations from Russia, which has continued its own aggressive action in its back yard, and weapons and financing from the Iranian regime and its Hezbollah proxies. In all,\u00a0more than 191,000\u00a0Syrian civilians have been killed, according to the United Nations.\r\nIn light of this, I disagree with the State Department\u2019s decision\u00a0to rescind funding\u00a0for a program designed to collect evidence of war crimes in Syria. I hope there will be a day when Assad and his henchmen are held accountable for their crimes. To abandon this goal would be to break faith with our international commitments and undermine U.S. credibility in the region.\r\nAs we have heard administration officials and others say recently: There is no purely military solution to the conflict in Syria. I agree. What good is it to defend a community if the people trapped inside can\u2019t access basic services \u2014 food, shelter, medical care, police services? The administration\u2019s reassessment also offers an opportunity to revisit the non-military components of its strategy. Now is the time to double down on our efforts to support the moderate, civilian opposition in Syria.\r\nA targeted, strategic investment in helping Syria\u2019s farmers, doctors and bureaucrats to administer the basic services expected of a functioning government could help undermine Islamic State control and set the foundation for a stable Syria. For example, helping moderate civilian leaders bypass the terrorist group to secure and deliver fuel to besieged communities before winter arrives would be a significant first step. A serious effort to bolster the civilian leadership in Iraq \u2014 especially in the Kurdish region \u2014 could have a similar effect.\r\nIt is appropriate and prudent for administration and congressional leaders to debate and reassess our strategy to combat the Islamic State and help stabilize the region. This is a prime opportunity to ensure that our strategy addresses the root causes of this conflict, especially the brutality of the Assad regime.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/congress-finds-cause-to-agree-on-disability-assistance", "Congress finds cause to agree on: Disability assistance", "2014-11-26", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By:\u00a0\r\n                    Susan Davis\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Wednesday, November 26, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            WASHINGTON \u2014 Congress is set to approve the first major piece of legislation affecting Americans with disabilities in nearly 25 years with sweeping, bipartisan support.\r\n\"It's a good opportunity to show how we can work together,\" said Rep. Ander Crenshaw, R-Fla., the lead House sponsor of the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act.\r\nWith 381 House sponsors and 74 Senate sponsors ranging on the ideological spectrum from conservative Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., to liberal Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., the ABLE Act boasts 85% of Congress as a co-sponsor.\r\nIt's a distinction shared by no other major piece of legislation taken up by this Congress. The bill is the\u00a0biggest piece of legislation to affect disabled Americans since the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act.\r\nSupporters of the legislation say it will allow one of the most unproductive, polarized legislative sessions in modern history to end on a high note and will serve as a reminder that lawmakers are still capable of consensus.\r\nThe legislation creates new tax-exempt investment accounts for people born with disabilities to save for future covered expenses, such as education, transportation and maintaining a residence, among others.\r\nThe accounts are similar to 529 plans, which allow families to set aside money for a child's college investment fund. ABLE accounts would supplement coverage already provided to disabled Americans under Medicaid and other assistance programs.\r\nRep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., is a co-sponsor, and her son Cole, 7, who was born with Down syndrome, would qualify for an ABLE account. \"Cole has helped me understand how too many times federal policies limit \u2014 not expand \u2014 opportunities for those with disabilities,\" she said. \"A vote on the ABLE Act brings us another step closer to empowering people with disabilities to reach their full potential.\"\r\nMcMorris Rodgers, a member of House GOP leadership, announced in November that the legislation would get a floor vote in December. Senate supporters, led by Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., are confident that the Senate will take up the bill before the chamber adjourns, but it has not yet been put on the schedule for a vote.\r\nCasey said that when he briefed Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., on ABLE accounts, Reid's immediate response was, \"Why don't we do this?\" Casey recalled. \"People get it. It's an affirmation of people's ability to live as full a life as possible.\"\r\nSupporters of the bill faced some hurdles getting it to the floor. An initial $20 billion cost estimate made some lawmakers hesitate, but negotiators ultimately revised the legislation to reduce the cost to $2 billion by clarifying beneficiaries must have been diagnosed with a disability by age 26, and that beneficiaries can only have one account.\r\nOutside fiscal conservative groups still balked. The Heritage Foundation in early November declared the bill \"a decisive step in expanding the welfare state\" that would contribute to the complexity of the tax code instead of simplifying it.\r\nTheir opposition, which at times has been potent on fiscal legislation, is unlikely to derail the legislation, supporters said.\r\n\"We totally disregard that notion and we almost find it offensive,\" said Sara Weir of the National Down Syndrome Society. \"It's allowing families and individuals to save their private funds that they raised. This isn't a handout from government or a new program, it's a hand up and it eliminates inequities that exist in the system right now.\"\r\nThe bill has also had some powerful, if untraditional, lobbyists behind it. Sara Wolff, 31, has Down syndrome and is a leading advocate for the ABLE Act and for people with disabilities. She testified before a Senate committee this year, and Casey's office said she was critical in signing up co-sponsors.\r\nIn an interview, Wolff recounted how she shared her personal story with lawmakers. After her mother passed away last year, she said it \"kind of put life in perspective for me.\" She works at a law firm, volunteers and does national advocacy work but nagging concerns about her own future remain. \"I worry about if my father passed away,\" she said. An ABLE account would allow her and her family to save for her future education and housing costs. Wolff, who has been lobbying for this since 2009, is ready for the vote.\r\n\"I'm going to have a big party,\" she said, \"Not just because it affects me personally but for everyone out there to achieve their potential.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/senator-casey-urges-epa-to-consider-constituent-concerns-over-keystone-landfill", "Senator Casey Urges EPA to Consider Constituent Concerns over Keystone Landfill", "2014-11-26", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) sent a letter to EPA Regional Administrator Shawn Garvin asking the department to take into consideration constituent concerns regarding the Keystone landfill. He specifically asked the EPA to evaluate any federal oversight role including laws such as the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act.\r\n\"The health and safety of my constituents is my top priority,\" said Senator Casey. \"I want to ensure that every appropriate step is being taken to ensure their well-being.\"\u00a0\r\nThe text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter is below:\r\nDear Mr. Garvin:\r\nI understand that the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is currently reviewing a permit for expansion of the Keystone Landfill in Dunmore. The health and safety of my constituents is my top priority. I have been contacted by constituents regarding this permit and I am enclosing correspondence that I have received.\r\nIn response to my constituents\u2019 concerns, I ask that you please review this correspondence. I understand that EPA approved Pennsylvania\u2019s solid waste management program in 1994, thus the Commonwealth has responsibility for permitting and regulating landfills. I understand EPA\u2019s role may be limited in permitting the Keystone Landfill, but I request that you also consider any Federal role in oversight of the landfill, including compliance with Federal environmental laws such as the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act.\r\nThank you for your prompt attention to this matter and I look forward to continue working with you in the future.\u00a0\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-for-inclusion-of-legislation-that-would-boost-food-banks-in-upcoming-end-of-year-tax-bill", "Casey Calls for Inclusion of Legislation that Would Boost Food Banks in Upcoming End of Year Tax Bill", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC - Ahead of Thanksgiving and with nearly two million Pennsylvania residents food insecure, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today called for inclusion of legislation that would boost food banks in an upcoming end of year tax extenders bill. Casey discussed the Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act that would expand and make permanent tax incentives for businesses that donate to food banks.\r\n\u201cAs we move into Thanksgiving it\u2019s important to remember that too many Pennsylvanians are food insecure and struggling with hunger,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cIncluding this legislation in the end of year tax extenders bill will make permanent and expand the current tax incentives we have for businesses to donate to food banks. I\u2019m calling on Congress to pass this legislation that will better help those in need to receive\u00a0food, especially during this time of year.\u201d\r\nThe Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act would permanently extend the same tax incentives to donate food, that are now available to corporations, to all businesses including small businesses, farmers, ranchers and restaurant owners. Congress recently extended this tax incentive through the end of 2013. The Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Act would make this provision permanent, and would extend the deduction to farmers who often have large amounts of fresh food to donate.\r\nFeeding America has said that following a 46 percent increase in demand during the recession, food banks are already struggling to meet need in their communities. Almost 15 percent of Pennsylvanians experience food insecurity and over 20 percent of children in Pennsylvania are food insecure (the household experienced a shortage of food). According to Feeding America, 35 percent of food insecure children are likely not eligible for SNAP or other income-based Federal nutrition programs. Despite the need for food assistance, as much as 40 percent of the food that is produced, grown and transported in the United States will never be used as some businesses find it too costly to donate the excess food, amounting to 70 billion pounds of wasted food each year.\r\nThe bipartisan bill is supported by many organizations including Feeding America, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Food Marketing Institute, Grocery Manufactures Association and the National Restaurant Association.\r\nCounty data for Pennsylvania can be found here: LINK.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-iran-20141125", "Casey Statement on Iran", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the National Security Working Group released the following statement on Iran:\r\n\"It is critical that we ensure that the Iranian regime does not acquire a nuclear weapons capability. While I remain skeptical of the regime's intentions and mindful that they have negotiated in bad faith before, it is in our national security interest for the parties to continue their efforts towards reaching a comprehensive agreement.\u00a0The Administration should work expeditiously to conclude negotiations sooner than the allotted time period; the longer we negotiate, the more sanctions relief the Iranian regime enjoys without having to make new concessions.\r\nAny comprehensive agreement should not only stall but roll back Iran's illicit nuclear program, and any additional sanctions relief should be contingent on verifiable concessions from the Iranian regime.\u00a0 I urge the Administration to consult closely with Congress during this critical time to ensure that our national security interests are protected.\"\r\n  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-penguins-us-steel-announcement", "Casey Statement on Penguins, U.S. Steel Announcement", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on the announcement that U.S. Steel will build its world headquarters in Pittsburgh:\r\n\u201cThis is a welcome announcement that will ensure that U.S. Steel continues to have a home in Pittsburgh. U.S. Steel has a long and storied history in our region. Ensuring that the steel industry is a part of the future is critical to job creation and the growth of Southwestern Pennsylvania\u2019s economy.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-in-oslo-the-rights-of-afghan-women-and-girls-are-non-negotiable", "Casey in Oslo: ‘The Rights of Afghan Women and Girls Are Non-Negotiable’", "2014-11-23", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Oslo, Norway- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the National Security Working Group and former Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee\u2019s Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs, spoke at the Oslo Symposium on Advancing Women\u2019s Rights and Empowerment in Afghanistan this weekend calling the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan non-negotiable. Casey discussed how protecting the rights of women in Afghanistan and throughout the world advances U.S. national security interests and promotes stability. For years Casey has worked to include language in annual defense bills that would ensure the protection of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan remains a U.S. priority. Casey also held a hearing on the status of the rights of women in the Middle East following the \u2018Arab Spring\u2019 and pushed to increase the number of domestic violence shelters in Afghanistan. This weekend Casey met with Afghanistan\u2019s First Lady, Rula Ghani, and other Afghan leaders.\r\nThe full text of Casey\u2019s remarks as prepared for delivery can be seen below.\r\nDoubling Down on Support for Afghan Women and Girls\r\nSenator Robert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nNovember 23, 2014 in Oslo, Norway\r\nAs prepared for delivery\r\nPrime Minister Solberg and First Lady Ghani, we are honored by your presence today. I am grateful to be part of a distinguished U.S. delegation \u2013 led by Ambassador Cathy Russell \u2013 and want to thank the sponsors of this important Symposium, especially Ambassador Melanne Verveer of the Georgetown Institute, for the opportunity to join this panel.\u00a0 I come before you today as a Senator, a husband, and a father of four daughters to express gratitude and solidarity.\u00a0\r\nDuring my eight years in the Senate, including four as Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee that covers Afghanistan and its region, I have had the opportunity to travel to Afghanistan three times.\u00a0 These trips, especially my meetings with Afghan counterparts, have informed and inspired me to continue my work in the Senate to send a clear, unified message: we must not tolerate erosion of the progress that has been made to expand and protect the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.\r\nOver the past thirteen years, Afghan women have made substantial gains in education, government, business, and national security.\u00a0 Solidifying and sustaining these gains is consistent with both American values and national security interests.\u00a0\r\nI have been inspired by the remarkable stories of women who have ignored security threats, overcome family objections, and broken through legal barriers to become drivers of change:\r\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the Army recruit whose fianc\u00e9e threatened to kill her if she would not resign her position\r\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the politician who defied Taliban threats to run for and win elected office\r\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the female poll workers and searchers who helped administer the Presidential elections in April despite the security risks, and\r\n-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 the girls who have survived acid attacks and returned to school.\u00a0\r\nI know that many remarkable Afghan leaders \u2013 some with stories not unlike these ones - have joined us today, and I look forward to connecting with all of you.\r\nMany of you know that the United States Congress can be a place of rancor and division.\u00a0 Yet, supporting the rights of Afghan women and girls is a priority that transcends politics.\u00a0 For three years, I have led legislation designed to improve the recruitment and retention of women in the Afghan National Security Forces.\u00a0 With my Republican colleague Senator Kelly Ayotte, I have pressed the U.S. Departments of State and Defense to make Afghan women a top priority as they chart the course for the new U.S. \u2013 Afghan relationship.\r\nMany members of the U.S. Congress \u2013 Democrat, Republican, and Independent - stand with you and will remain steadfast to ensure the recent gains for Afghan women and girls are a foundation on which we can build.\u00a0 To allow these gains to be reversed would dishonor the sacrifice of the American and coalition forces who have served in Afghanistan and would betray the Afghan people, many of whom have given their lives to fight back against extremism. We must remain committed to the work of the diplomats, civilian aid workers, and civil society groups who have labored alongside their Afghan partners to help the country recover from decades of brutal Taliban rule.\r\nThe past thirteen years have been transformative for Afghanistan, and already the new Administration has taken important steps \u2013 for example, the signing of the Bilateral Security Agreement, a resumption of the Kabul Bank inquiry, and, of course, First Lady Ghani\u2019s vocal activism on behalf of women, girls, and the vulnerable.\u00a0 This time of transition affords all of us here today the opportunity renew our commitments. We all know that the stakes remain high for women and girls.\u00a0 We must make clear to Afghan leaders that women\u2019s rights are non-negotiable. During this Symposium, and in the lead-up to the London Conference, we must work together to ensure that women will be full partners in planning for and building Afghanistan\u2019s future.\r\nAs former U.S. President Bill Clinton stated, \u201cno society can truly flourish if it stifles the dreams and productivity of half its population.\u201d This struggle for freedom and equality is part of both our shared history and our shared ideals.\u00a0 I am also mindful of a passage from the Scriptures, which is important in my faith. It reads: \u201cBlest are they who hunger and thirst for justice, for they shall be satisfied.\u201d\u00a0I commend your enduring work to give the people of Afghanistan a more just society. \u00a0\u00a0I look forward to hearing directly from you and to working together to build a better tomorrow for women and girls in Afghanistan.\u00a0\r\nThank you.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/casey-cartwright-introduce-sweeping-reforms-to-black-lung-benefits", "Cartwright, Casey Introduce Sweeping Reforms to Black Lung Benefits Program", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC\u2014U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright and U.S Senator Bob Casey today proposed sweeping reforms to the federal program that provides benefits to coal miners suffering from black lung disease. Federal law requires that coal companies compensate disabled miners who contract black lung, which is caused by inhaling coal dust over an extended period of time, but coal companies routinely deploy an array of unfair tactics to avoid paying miners the benefits they deserve.\nTo help level the playing field for miners battling this debilitating, potentially fatal disease, the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 was introduced by Casey and Cartwright, along with Senators John Rockefeller (D-WV), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Tom Harkin (D-IA), as well as Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT), George Miller (D-CA), and Nick Rahall (D-WV).\n\u201cThere is undeniable evidence that, as thousands of miners are being affected by black lung, coal company lawyers are determined to exploit loopholes preventing miners and their families from receiving the benefits they deserve.\u00a0 This legislation is needed to ensure that miners are able to obtain unbiased medical evidence, ample representation, and up-to-date benefit payments,\u201d said Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cI want to thank Congressman George Miller, the senior Democrat on the Committee on Education and the Workforce, for his leadership on this issue, and I look forward to working with Senator Casey, and Representatives Joe Courtney, Nick Rahall, and Bobby Scott as we move this important legislation.\u201d\n\u201cIt is shameful that black lung benefits claimants have to wait years for their cases to be decided,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u00a0\u201cOur nation\u2019s hard-working miners deserve much better. This legislation has the opportunity add transparency to the black lung claims process, improve it in a significant way and bring justice to miners and their families.\u201d\nRecent analyses by the Center for Public Integrity and ABC News found that doctors who are paid by coal companies have systematically misdiagnosed miners with black lung as having other diseases, thus preventing the miners from accessing benefits. Furthermore, hearings in the U.S. Senate showed that coal company lawyers have caused some miners\u2019 claims to be denied by withholding medical evidence that proves that the miner has black lung.\nIn the past year, the U.S. Department of Labor has taken several steps to address the issues identified in these reports, but without congressional action, disabled coal miners who deserve black lung benefits will continue to be unfairly denied.\nThe Black Lung Benefits Act of 2014 will strengthen the black lung benefits program by:\nImproving miners\u2019 access to medical evidence\n Requiring full disclosure of medical information related to a claim, whether or not such information is entered as evidence\n\tHelping miners review and rebut potentially biased or inaccurate medical evidence developed by coal companies\n\tAllowing miners or their survivors to reopen their cases if they had been denied because of medical interpretations that have subsequently been discredited\n\tEstablishing a pilot program in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to provide unbiased evidence for the most severe black lung cases\n Helping miners access better, more timely benefits\n Adjusting black lung benefits to increases in the cost of living\n\tHelping claimants secure legal representation by providing interim attorney fees if miners prevail at various stages of their claim\n\tDeveloping a strategy to reduce the backlog of black lung benefits claims still awaiting consideration\n Additional information on the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5751) is available here.\nFull text of the bill is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141125203516/http://brady.house.gov/press-release/congressman-brady-re-elected-ranking-member-minority-chair-committee-house", "Congressman Brady re-elected Ranking Member (minority chair) of the Committee on House Administration", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Robert Brady", "B001227", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Brady re-elected Ranking Member (minority chair) of the Committee on House Administration                                           \n              Nov 20, 2014      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n          \n  \n    \n    \n    PHILADELPHIA --- Congressman Robert A. Brady (D., PA.) has been re-elected Ranking Member (minority chair) of the Committee on House Administration for the 114th Congress.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tAt a Democratic Caucus meeting at 3:00 pm, November 19, Congressman Brady was nominated by House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and unanimously approved by the Democratic Caucus. Congressman Brady is the first Philadelphian to serve as either chairman or Ranking Member of a full committee since the late Congressman Bill Gray in the 99th and 100th Congress.  \n\t\u00a0  \n\tThe Committee oversees nearly $1 billion in Congressional spending, as well as the Capitol Police Department, Capitol Visitors Center, the National Zoo and the Smithsonian Museums.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-cartwright-introduce-sweeping-reforms-to-black-lung-benefits-program", "Casey, Cartwright Introduce Sweeping Reforms to Black Lung Benefits Program", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014U.S Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and Representative Matt Cartwright (D-PA) today proposed sweeping reforms to the federal program that provides benefits to coal miners suffering from black lung disease. Federal law requires that coal companies compensate disabled miners who contract black lung, which is caused by inhaling coal dust over an extended period of time, but coal companies routinely deploy an array of unfair tactics to avoid paying miners the benefits they deserve.\r\nTo help level the playing field for miners battling this debilitating, potentially fatal disease, the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 was introduced by Casey and Cartwright, along with Senators John Rockefeller (D-WV), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Tom Harkin (D-IA), as well as Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT), George Miller (D-CA), and Nick Rahall (D-WV).\r\n\u201cIt is shameful that black lung benefits claimants have to wait years for their cases to be decided,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u00a0\u201cOur nation\u2019s hard-working miners deserve much better. This legislation has the opportunity to add transparency to the black lung claims process, improve it in a significant way and bring justice to miners and their families.\u201d\r\n\u201cThere is undeniable evidence that as thousands of miners are being affected by black lung coal company lawyers are determined to exploit loopholes preventing miners and their families from receiving the benefits they deserve.\u00a0 This legislation is needed to ensure that miners are able to obtain unbiased medical evidence, ample representation, and up-to-date benefit payments,\u201d said Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cI want to thank Congressman George Miller, the senior Democrat on the Committee on Education and the Workforce, for his leadership on this issue, and I look forward to working with Senator Casey, and Representatives Joe Courtney, Nick Rahall, and Bobby Scott as we move this important legislation.\u201d\r\nRecent analyses by the Center for Public Integrity and ABC News found that doctors who are paid by coal companies have systematically misdiagnosed miners with black lung as having other diseases, thus preventing the miners from accessing benefits. Furthermore, hearings in the U.S. Senate showed that coal company lawyers have caused some miners\u2019 claims to be denied by withholding medical evidence that proves that the miner has black lung.\r\nIn the past year, the U.S. Department of Labor has taken several steps to address the issues identified in these reports, but without congressional action, disabled coal miners who deserve black lung benefits will continue to be unfairly denied.\r\nThe Black Lung Benefits Act of 2014 will strengthen the black lung benefits program by:\r\nImproving miners\u2019 access to medical evidence\r\n \r\nRequiring full disclosure of medical information related to a claim, whether or not such information is entered as evidence\r\nHelping miners review and rebut potentially biased or inaccurate medical evidence developed by coal companies\r\nAllowing miners or their survivors to reopen their cases if they had been denied because of medical interpretations that have subsequently been discredited\r\nEstablishing a pilot program in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to provide unbiased evidence for the most severe black lung cases\r\n \r\nHelping miners access better, more timely benefits\r\n \r\nAdjusting black lung benefits to increases in the cost of living\r\nHelping claimants secure legal representation by providing interim attorney fees if miners prevail at various stages of their claim\r\nDeveloping a strategy to reduce the backlog of black lung benefits claims still awaiting consideration\r\n \r\nAdditional information on the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5751) is available here.\r\nFull text of the bill is available here.\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202.228.6367 Shane Seaver (Cartwright) 202.225.5546", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pushes-for-climate-action-with-more-equitable-rules-for-pennsylvania", "Casey Pushes for Climate Action with More Equitable Rules for Pennsylvania", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) wrote to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy to support EPA\u2019s comprehensive clean power plan while urging EPA to adopt methodology that would be more equitable.\u00a0 Pennsylvania powers states throughout the region and has made great strides as a leader in the development of clean energy sources.\u00a0\r\n\u201cWe must be serious about the threat of climate change for the sake of public health, national security and children\u2019s health,\u201d said Senator Casey.\u00a0 \u201cI support the need for a comprehensive climate change plan but believe EPA\u2019s calculation imposes a disproportionate and unfair burden on Pennsylvania.\u00a0 Our Commonwealth powers the electricity needs of states across the Mid-Atlantic.\u00a0We should be treated sensibly and fairly.\u201d\r\nSenator Casey\u2019s comments to EPA state that we must rise to the challenge of climate change and revitalize our economy by increasing our efforts in the areas of energy efficiency; developing and adopting cleaner ways of producing electricity; and creating jobs. Senator Casey addresses limitations in EPA\u2019s proposed rule that calls for higher burdens on Pennsylvania relative to other states, particularly in renewable energy targets that could not be made up from additional pollution reductions from other sources targeted in EPA\u2019s rule.\r\nKey points of Senator Casey\u2019s letter:\r\n \r\nWe must take action on climate change because it poses a serious threat to public health, the environment and national security.\r\nThe transition to cleaner energy must include a pathway for multiple forms of electricity generation including clean coal, natural gas, nuclear, hydropower, wind, solar, biomass and other renewables, as well as energy reduction measures.\r\nEPA\u2019s comprehensive four-building-block plan is a necessary and effective approach to reducing carbon pollution. The four blocks are:\r\n \r\n \r\nImproving efficiency at coal plants\r\nUsing natural gas plants more frequently\r\nIncreasing renewable and other low-carbon or zero-carbon electricity\r\nReducing electricity demand\r\n \r\n \r\nPennsylvania is a net-energy-producing state (generating more power than it consumes) whose economy is built on affordable electricity for manufacturing and other energy-intensive industries.\r\nEPA\u2019s renewable energy target for Pennsylvania imposes a disproportionate burden on the Commonwealth relative to other states with much greater renewable energy potential, which could not be alleviated by squeezing greater carbon pollution reductions from the other three building blocks in Pennsylvania.\r\nEPA must give greater recognition to zero-carbon sources such as nuclear power and hydropower to provide an incentive for these sources to remain in operation, as they make up a large portion of Pennsylvania\u2019s electricity sources that would lower its carbon pollution rate.\r\n \r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-sends-letters-to-ohio-and-west-virginia-s-environmental", "Cartwright Sends Letters to Ohio and West Virginias Environmental Administrators Regarding Fracking Waste Disposal", "2014-11-19", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright sent letters to Randy Huffman, the Cabinet Secretary for West Virginia\u2019s Department of Environmental Protection, and Craig Butler, the Director of Ohio\u2019s Environmental Protection Agency.\u00a0 The letters are a significant step in a comprehensive investigation Cartwright is leading in his role as Ranking Member of the Economic Growth, Job Creation, and Regulatory Affairs Subcommittee of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.\nThe letters requests information about the respective state\u2019s regulatory process for monitoring the handling and disposal hydraulic fracturing (fracking) waste.\u00a0\nCartwright writes, \u201cAs you know, fracking wastes are categorized as \"special wastes\" and are exempt from federal hazardous waste regulations under Subtitle C of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).\u00a0 As a result, fracking wastes are regulated as non-hazardous wastes by state governments under the less stringent RCRA Subtitle D solid waste regulations.\u00a0 I am writing to inquire about your state\u2019s reporting requirements for fracking operators, fracking waste transporters and disposal site operators.\u201d\u00a0\nThe letters go on to ask several detailed questions about the waste disposal practices and oversight capabilities in both Ohio and West Virginia.\u00a0 Just last month Cartwright sent a similar letter to Pennsylvania\u2019s acting Department of Environmental Protection (PA-DEP) Secretary Dana Aunkst.\nIn Pennsylvania, the state\u2019s oversight of the process has come under scrutiny after the release of PA Auditor General Eugene Depasquale\u2019s audit of the PA-DEP\u2019s performance in monitoring potential impacts to water quality from fracking.\u00a0\nThe audit concluded that Pennsylvania\u2019s current system for oversight of fracking waste \u201cis not an effective monitoring tool\u201d and \u201cit is not proactive in discouraging improper, even illegal, disposal of waste.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-statement-on-expansion-of-bureau-of-prison-s-pepper-spray", "Cartwright Statement on Expansion of Bureau of Prisons Pepper Spray Pilot Program", "2014-11-18", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright released the following statement after the U.S. Bureau of Prisons Director Charles Samuels announced the expansion of the Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray Pilot Program to include staff who work in recreation, food service, and receiving and discharge.\u00a0 Additionally, the Bureau will provide OC Spray to staff in all of the designated positions at six medium security institutions:\n\u201cI applaud the Bureau of Prisons for expanding the OC Spray Pilot Program, but there is still more work to be done to protect the men and women that work in our nation\u2019s prisons.\u00a0\n\u201cIn order to ensure greater safety, I introduced the Eric Williams Correctional Officer Protection Act of 2014\u00a0in May, a bill that would make the pepper spray program permanent, as well as expand pepper spray availability to medium and higher security facilities.\n\u201cHowever, overcrowding and understaffing continue to plague our federal prisons.\u00a0 It is essential that we adequately fund the Bureau of Prisons to ensure that it can perform its mission to rehabilitate these individuals without compromising the safety of the many officers who put their lives at risk in achieving this goal.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-on-usda-to-provide-emergency-funding-to-berks-county-as-county-battles-new-invasive-species", "Casey Calls on USDA to Provide Emergency Funding to Berks County As County Battles New Invasive Species", "2014-11-18", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide emergency funding to help combat a new invasive species that was recently spotted in Berks County- the Spotted Lanternfly. The species was recently spotted in Berks County but has its origins in East Asia. The species attacks fruit, grape and forest species. If left unchecked, the species could impact the region\u2019s robust fruit and forestry industries.\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s important that USDA move quickly to combat this invasive insect in Berks County and throughout the state,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cWe\u2019ve seen before the significant economic impact that invasive species can have. Taking action will protect two of the Commonwealth\u2019s strongest industries- fruit and forestry.\u201d \u00a0\r\nNovember 18, 2014\r\nThe Honorable Tom Vilsack\r\nSecretary of Agriculture\r\n1400 Independence Avenue SW\r\nWashington, DC 20250\r\nDear Mr. Secretary:\r\nI am concerned to hear that the Spotted Lanternfly, a highly destructive insect from East Asia, has been detected in Berks County, Pennsylvania. I request your urgent attention and assistance to combat this potentially devastating pest.\r\nThe Spotted Lanternfly has the potential to voraciously attack fruit tree, grape and forest species. We must take swift and comprehensive steps to prevent the lanternfly from spreading throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Nation. I am extremely concerned about the ramifications the Spotted Lanternfly could have on Pennsylvania\u2019s robust fruit and forestry industries.\r\nI ask that your department provide immediate assistance with emergency funding and appropriate technical assistance to Pennsylvania.\r\nThe arrival of the Spotted Lanternfly is most unwelcome news. The introduction of this invasive pest underscores the importance of full and proper screenings of imports and arriving passengers to safeguard our country and American agriculture from invasive pests and diseases.\r\nI remain confident that with your assistance, we can work quickly to contain and eradicate the new Spotted Lanternfly detection in Pennsylvania. I look forward to your response and our continued work together.\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-following-attack-on-synagogue-in-jerusalem", "Casey Statement Following Attack on Synagogue in Jerusalem", "2014-11-18", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the National Security Working Group and former Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs released a statement following today\u2019s attack on a synagogue in Jerusalem.\r\n\u201cI am appalled and deeply saddened by the vicious terrorist attacks committed against worshipers in a synagogue in Jerusalem today.\u00a0 This act of terrible violence is unacceptable, especially in a place of worship.\u00a0 I urge Palestinian leadership to condemn this attack in the strongest terms and to take action to hold accountable the perpetrators of this and other terrible attacks committed in the past weeks.\u201d\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-farenthold-and-hastings-introduce-legislation-to-combat-scams", "Cartwright, Farenthold, and Hastings Introduce Legislation to Combat Scams Targeted Towards Low-Income, Older Veterans", "2014-11-17", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington \u2013\u00a0Last week U.S. Representatives Matt Cartwright (PA-17), Blake Farenthold (TX-27), and Alcee Hastings (FL-20) introduced the bipartisan\u00a0Veterans Care Financial Protection Act of 2014.\u00a0\u00a0The legislation would direct the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to work with other federal agencies and states to address a myriad of scams that target low-income, older veterans.\u00a0 U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (MA) and Marco Rubio (FL) first introduced the legislation in the Senate.\n\u201cI believe that we owe a great debt to those brave men and women who served our country through military service,\u201d\u00a0said Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cI am proud to work with Congressmen Farenthold and Hastings, and Senators Rubio and Warren to address any form of fraud targeted towards our nation\u2019s older veterans and their hard-earned benefits.\u00a0 These scams are completely unacceptable and appalling.\u00a0 Our legislation would require greater protections for our nation\u2019s heroes.\u201d\n\u201cIt is unfortunate that there are people who want to take advantage of those who have fought for our freedom,\u201d\u00a0said Farenthold.\u00a0 \u201cThat\u2019s why I am proud to introduce, along with Congressmen Matt Cartwright and Alcee Hastings, legislation to help prevent scam artists from targeting and taking advantage of our veterans, especially those older and low-income veterans. I remain committed to helping our veterans receive the benefits and care they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\u201cI find it abhorrent that we even need to consider this legislation.\u00a0 The idea that there are people in this country who seek to defraud those who have sacrificed so much is sickening,\u201d\u00a0said Hastings.\u00a0 \u201cAlong with Congressmen Cartwright and Farenthold, I am dedicated to protecting veterans and their families from these scams and ensuring they receive all the benefits and care that they have earned.\u201d\nThe VA offers Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefits to veterans who are eligible for a VA pension and require the aid and attendance of another person to complete basic daily activities.\u00a0 Scam artists have exploited the A&A program by charging veterans for obtaining the benefit even though the application process is free.\u00a0 Additionally, these predators often take control of the veteran's assets and move them into an irrevocable trust or an annuity, creating significant financial strain for the veteran.\u00a0 This movement of assets may also disqualify the veteran from other assistance, like Medicaid. \u00a0\nThe bill would require the VA to work with other federal agencies and state experts to develop and implement standards that protect veterans from predatory practices.\u00a0 Furthermore, the bill would require a study on the implemented standards to determine whether the standards have effectively addressed the scams.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-backed-bill-that-helps-nearly-55000-pennsylvania-families-afford-child-care-every-month-for-over-93000-children-passes-senate-and-heads-to-presidents-desk-for-signature", "Casey-Backed Bill that Helps Nearly 55,000 Pennsylvania Families Afford Child Care Every Month for Over 93,000 Children Passes Senate and Heads to President’s Desk for Signature", "2014-11-17", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced the passage of a bipartisan measure that helps nearly 55,000 Pennsylvania families afford child care each month. The historically bipartisan legislation, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), helps parents work and drive the economy while affording child care. Senator Casey included provisions in the bill that increase investments in early education. The measure passed the Senate 88-1.\r\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that the Senate came together in a bipartisan fashion to pass this critical legislation,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cIncreased investment in early education will help children learn more now and earn more later. Putting in place these policies will serve as a foundation for future economic growth. Helping a child learn at a young age puts them on a pathway to success in a way that few other efforts can match.\u201d\r\nEach month in Pennsylvania, CCDBG funding supports approximately 93,000 children, and over 1.5 million children nation-wide. The program helps parents, giving them access to child care so that the parents can work to support their families, yet CCDBG has not been reauthorized since 1996.\r\nChildren who qualify for a subsidy will receive a year of care before their eligibility is re-determined, promoting stability and continuity for the entire family and encouraging the child to develop strong relationships with his or her teachers and peers in child care. This is especially important for Pennsylvania\u2019s children, as the state recently reduced its \u201credetermination period\u201d from 12 months to 6 months.\r\nIn addition to the new one year eligibility period, key Casey provisions include:\r\n \r\nDesignated Funding for Quality Improvements.\u00a0 The final bill more than doubles the funding for activities that improve the quality of childcare providers.\r\nDesignated Funding for Infants and Toddlers.\u00a0 The final bill creates a designated fund of 3 percent for childcare for infants and toddlers.\u00a0\r\nIncreased Authorizations. The final bill authorizes higher levels of annual appropriations for CCDBG \u2013 approximately 16% over 6 years.\r\n \r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-the-murder-of-peter-kassig", "Casey Statement on the Murder of Peter Kassig", "2014-11-17", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released a statement on the brutal murder of American Peter Kassig:\r\n\u201cMy thoughts and prayers are with Peter Kassig\u2019s family and friends during this difficult time. ISIS\u2019s murder of Peter Kassig, an American and former Army Ranger, was an act of brutality. By all accounts, Peter worked tirelessly to help others through his humanitarian work. Before he was captured, he worked in Syria and neighboring countries helping refugees and those caught in the middle of the Syrian conflict.\r\nPeter\u2019s service is a reminder of the bravery of humanitarian aid workers who risk their lives to help those in conflict zones around the world.\u201d\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-toomey-welcome-news-of-popes-visit-to-philadelphia", "Casey, Toomey Welcome News of Pope’s Visit to Philadelphia", "2014-11-17", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) released the following statements on news that Pope Francis will visit Philadelphia next year for the World Meeting of Families.\r\nSenator Casey said: \"I welcome Pope Francis' decision to visit Philadelphia in 2015 for the World Meeting of Families. Hosting a guest like Pope Francis is a great honor for the city, the region and our entire Commonwealth. Philadelphia truly is one of America's great cities. I am confident Pope Francis will get to experience Philadelphia and enjoy his visit.\"\r\nSenator Toomey said: \u201cI am very grateful that the Holy Father, Pope Francis, has chosen to visit Philadelphia next fall.\u00a0 Pope Francis sets an example for all with his humble nature, compassion for the poor and less fortunate, and his modest but joyful lifestyle.\u00a0 I join with Philadelphia\u2019s faith community in welcoming him to the City of Brotherly Love.\u201d\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 E.R. Anderson (Toomey) 202-224-8609", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-elected-regional-whip-in-us-house", "Cartwright Elected Regional Whip in U.S. House", "2014-11-14", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC\u00a0\u2013 Today U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright was elected Regional Whip by his Democratic colleagues representing Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. \"I look forward to working with my fellow Democrats to support a legislative agenda that puts people first,\" said Cartwright. \u00a0\"Now more than ever we must be unified in putting forth an agenda that will create jobs and improve our economy, support our veterans, protect the environment, and strengthen Social Security and Medicare.\"\nRegional Whips develop strategy, count votes, gather and distribute information among Members. \u00a0Cartwright will join Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer in garnering support for key legislation and bringing members of the Democratic Caucus together. \"I would like to thank my colleagues for their support and confidence, as well as my constituents in Pennsylvania's 17th congressional district for entrusting me to be their voice in Congress,\" said Cartwright. \"I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that we will face together in the 114th Congress.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141115205334/http://brady.house.gov/press-release/congressman-brady-introduces-legislation-expand-federal-hate-crime-laws-lgbt-community", "Congressman Brady introduces legislation to expand Federal hate crime laws for the LGBT community", "2014-11-14", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Robert Brady", "B001227", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Philadelphia --- Spurred by a recent attack in Philadelphia where two men were assaulted and called homophobic slurs for their perceived sexual orientation, Congressman Bob Brady (D., PA) today has introduced legislation that would expand the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. The Brady legislation is designed to provide greater protections in all circumstances, not just those that involve interstate or foreign commerce.\n\t\"Because Pennsylvania\u2019s hate-crime law does not protect those attacked due to their sexual orientation, the assailants could not be charged with a hate crime. This is a travesty,\" Brady said. \"Since Pennsylvania is one of the 14 states that has no law against hate crimes committed based on sexual orientation, this bill would fill an important gap and protect all Americans from these vicious crimes.\"\n\tPassed in 2009, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act expanded U.S. federal hate-crime protections to victims targeted because of their actual or perceived gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. However, as other bias-based violence has decreased in frequency, crimes against the LGBT community have increased. In 2012 alone, the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs reported 2,016 incidents of violence and 25 homicides committed because of individuals\u2019 LGBT status. These numbers are likely underestimated because most of these crimes are either unreported or unrecognized.\n\tIn 2014, only 15 states and the District of Columbia have laws that address hate or bias crimes based on both sexual orientation and gender identity. \"Federal law must send a stronger message to the states. The time is now to expand Federal hate crime protections for all LGBT Americans\" Brady said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/in-call-with-administrations-budget-director-casey-presses-for-continued-investment-in-delaware-deepening-project-in-upcoming-budget", "In Call with Administration’s Budget Director Casey Presses for Continued Investment in Delaware Deepening Project in Upcoming Budget", "2014-11-14", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- In a call with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Shaun Donovan, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) pressed for continued investment in the Delaware Deepening Project in the Administration\u2019s upcoming FY16 budget. Casey has been a congressional leader in pushing for funds for the deepening project and has worked to secure $125 million in investments in the job-creating project.\r\n\u201cI appreciate the effort the Administration has made on the Delaware Deepening Project and I hope, after speaking with Director Donovan, that the Administration will continue to prioritize this critical project,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cAccording to the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority the Delaware River currently supports over 38,000 jobs and deepening the Delaware has to the potential to create more \u00a0jobs and cement Philadelphia\u2019s port as a driver of economic activity in the city and all of Southeastern Pennsylvania.\u201d\r\nThe project will deepen the Delaware River channel from forty feet to forty-five feet in order to accommodate larger vessels. This will reduce shipping costs, make maritime transportation more efficient and make the channel safer and more reliable. Once the channel is deepened, there will be an estimated increase of 2.5 million tons of cargo to the Port of Philadelphia, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. In addition, this project will provide the potential to create thousands of short-term jobs that aid an industry that has suffered significantly in this economic climate. According to an economic impact study by the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority the Delaware River currently supports over 38,000 jobs.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/lawmakers-introduce-legislation-to-strip-former-nazis-of-us-social-security-benefits", "Lawmakers introduce legislation to strip former Nazis of US Social Security benefits", "2014-11-13", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Associated Press\r\n                    \r\n                    \r\n                \r\n            Thursday, November 13, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation Thursday to strip suspected Nazi war criminals of their Social Security benefits, insisting American taxpayers should not be underwriting the retirement of anyone who participated in the Third Reich's atrocities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-advocates-impacted-family-push-for-passage-of-bill-that-helps-thousands-of-central-pa-families-pay-for-childcare-each-month", "Casey, Advocates, Impacted Family Push for Passage of Bill that Helps Thousands of Central PA Families Pay for Childcare Each Month", "2014-11-12", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Harrisburg PA- With an end of the year deadline approaching, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), advocates for children and a local family pushed to reauthorize the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) that helps thousands of Central Pennsylvania families pay for childcare each month. The program currently helps 55,000 Pennsylvania families each month pay for childcare for 93,000 children. If the bill fails to pass by the end of the year important reforms contained in the bill that helps families pay for childcare will have to start over in a new Congress.\r\n\u201cInvesting in child care and early education for children helps them earn more now so they earn more later,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cThis program helps thousands of families across Central Pennsylvania go to work and still afford childcare. It\u2019s critical that Congress come together and pass this legislation before the end of the year.\u201d \u00a0\r\nThe Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) provides subsidies to assist low-income families in obtaining child care so that parents can work or participate in education or training activities. Discretionary funding for this program is authorized by the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (as amended), which is currently due for reauthorization. Mandatory funding for child care subsidies authorized in Section 418 of the Social Security Act (sometimes referred to as the \"Child Care Entitlement to States\") is also due for reauthorization. In combination, these two funding streams are commonly referred to as the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). The CCDF is the primary source of federal funding dedicated solely to child care subsidies for low-income working and welfare families.\r\nThe CCDF is administered by the Office of Child Care at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and provides block grants to states, according to a formula, which are used to subsidize the child care expenses of working families with children under age 13. In addition to providing funding for child care services, funds are also used for activities intended to improve the overall quality and supply of child care for families in general. The CCDF is the primary source of federal funding dedicated solely to child care subsidies for low-income working and welfare families.\r\n\u00a0\r\nCCDBG in Pennsylvania \r\n\u00a0\r\nAccording to preliminary FY 2013 data from the Administration of Children and Families, the most recent year available, Pennsylvania served an average of 54,700 families per month in CCDBG, totaling an average number of 92,800 children. This helped support 22,019 childcare providers each month. In total, with mandatory and discretionary funds, Pennsylvania received $187.3 million in FY 2014.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-toomey-applaud-nomination-of-judge-luis-felipe-restrepo-to-us-court-of-appeals-for-the-third-circuit", "Casey, Toomey Applaud Nomination of Judge Luis Felipe Restrepo to U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit", "2014-11-12", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Following the announcement that President Obama has nominated Judge Luis Felipe Restrepo to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, which includes parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) released the following statements:\r\n\u201cJudge Restrepo is an excellent choice for the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals,\u201d Sen. Casey said. \u201cJudge Restrepo has had a distinguished legal career as an attorney in private practice, a federal magistrate and now as a District Court judge in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. He drew broad bipartisan support during his confirmation to the Eastern District Court and I\u2019m hopeful that he\u2019ll move quickly through the Senate and be confirmed on a bipartisan basis once again.\u201d\r\n\u201cI am pleased that President Obama today has nominated Judge Luis Felipe Restrepo to serve our nation on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals,\u201d said Sen. Toomey.\u00a0 \u201cAs both a federal magistrate and district judge, Judge Restrepo has served the people of Pennsylvania honorably and with distinction.\u00a0 He also is dedicated to his community by giving his free time to\u00a0the Make-a-Wish Foundation.\u00a0 Sen. Casey and I recommended Judge Restrepo to the White House for a seat on the federal district court, and I believe that he will also make a superb addition to the Third Circuit based in Philadelphia.\u201d\r\nIn the last three and a half years, Senators Casey and Toomey have worked together, in a bipartisan fashion, to help confirm jurists of high ability and integrity to preside in the federal courts of Pennsylvania. In that time, the Senate has confirmed 10 Pennsylvania district court judges and one circuit court judge.\u00a0\r\nLuis Felipe Restrepo \r\nLuis Felipe Restrepo has served as a federal judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania since June 2013 and previously served as a magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.\u00a0 Prior to his time on the bench, he worked as a partner at Kreasner & Restrepo in Philadelphia, focusing on criminal defense and civil rights legislation.\r\nRestrepo served as an assistant federal defender for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania from 1990 to 1993, and an assistant defender at the Defender Association of Philadelphia from 1987 to 1990. He is a past president of the Hispanic Bar Association of Pennsylvania.\r\nA native of Colombia, Restrepo became a U.S. citizen in 1993. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1981 and a Juris Doctor from Tulane University Law School in 1986. He lives in Swarthmore.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/honoring-our-veterans", "Honoring our Veterans", "2014-11-11", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tuesday, November 11, 2014\n\t\t\t\t Honoring our Veterans \n\t\t\t\t\n                        by Bob Casey \n                        \n                 \n\t\n\t            \n\t                \n\t                    \n\t                        \n\t                    \n\t                \n\t            \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t  \t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tOn Veterans Day, we come together to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation valiantly. As we mark Veterans Day, it is not only a time to thank our veterans for their service, but to also acknowledge the debt we owe them for protecting us and preserving our freedom. We must also recognize the sacrifices of the families of veterans \u2013 the mothers and fathers and especially the spouses and children.\r\nWhile today highlights the heroic service of our Veterans, we must honor their sacrifices every day of the year. Serving our veterans requires actions not just words. As Americans we must ensure that all veterans have what they need when they return home, especially healthcare, education and employment opportunities.\r\nI look forward to continuing to work in a bipartisan way to ensure our veterans and their families receive a level of care and service worthy of their sacrifice.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://doyle.house.gov/press-release/doyle-supports-presidents-net-neutrality-proposal", "Doyle Supports President's Net Neutrality Proposal", "2014-11-10", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mike Doyle", "D000482", "doyle.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Mike Doyle (D-PA-14) issued the following statement today on the President\u2019s Open Internet Plan, which can be found at https://www.whitehouse.gov/net-neutrality.\n\u00a0\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to see the President take a strong position in support of the Open Internet, and join with those of us who have long fought for strong Net Neutrality rules. \u00a0I will continue to push the FCC to establish rules that protect and preserve the Open Internet as a platform for competition and innovation. \u00a0Reclassifying broadband as a Title II service under the Communication Act is the best option available to the Commission.\u201d\n\u00a0\n\u201cReclassification will enable the Commission to craft enforceable rules that prohibit blocking and throttling of online content, and prevent carriers from establishing fast lanes and paid prioritization.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cI strongly encourage FCC Chairman Wheeler and the rest of the Commission to adopt the President\u2019s proposal.\u201d\n\u00a0\nThe White House today published a statement from the President supporting reclassifying broadband \u00a0as a Title II service under the Communications Act. \u00a0As part of the FCC\u2019s Open Internet rule making, the Commission is considering which legal authority to use as the basis for its Net Neutrality rules. \u00a0More than four million citizens submitted comments in this FCC proceeding (the most comments ever submitted in an FCC proceeding), urging the FCC to reclassify broadband as a Title II service.\n\u00a0\nThe FCC\u2019s most current rulemaking effort is the result of the Commission\u2019s 2010 Open Internet Order being struck down in part by a Federal Court in January of this year. \u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-for-action-on-disability-claims-backlog-bill-as-pa-vets-continue-to-wait-as-long-as-an-average-of-266-days-to-see-claim-resolved", "Casey Calls for Action on Disability Claims Backlog Bill as PA Vets Continue to Wait As Long As An Average of 266 Days to See Claim Resolved", "2014-11-10", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Philadelphia, PA- Ahead of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called for action on a disability claims backlog bill as Pennsylvania veterans continue to wait as long as an average of 266 days to see their claims resolved. Joined by Philadelphia veterans who have experienced difficulties with the claims process, Casey released a new letter calling for action on a bill to reform the disability claims process. Casey\u2019s bill has broad bipartisan backing and he will push for passage in the new Congress.\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u201cThe backlog has been a persistent and inexcusable problem,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cWe must take actions that are worthy of the valor and sacrifice of our veterans. Our nation\u2019s heroes shouldn\u2019t have to wait for months or more for their claims to be addressed. It is unacceptable that some veterans in Pennsylvania have waited a year or longer to get their disability claims processed.\u00a0 Veterans deserve a comprehensive and permanent solution to this problem, and this legislation will ensure we reach that goal.\u201d\r\nDetails of the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act:\r\nWhereas the VA Backlog Working Group March 2014 Report identifies problems in current processes, the 21st\u00a0Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act aims to provide a comprehensive solution. The bill is divided into three sections:\r\nTitle I \u2013 Benefits Claims Submission.\u00a0This section is designed to encourage, assist, and educate veterans on the benefits of submitting a completed claim, when possible, as well as reinforce the services available to help a veteran complete a claim.\r\n \r\nIncludes proposals to improve veterans\u2019 access to information about the claims process;\r\nProvides Veterans Service Organizations and veterans\u2019 preferred secondary contact with better access to information;\r\nAuthorizes monetary benefits to incentivize developed claims submission.\r\n \r\nTitle II - Reforming Practices of Regional Offices.\u00a0\u00a0Personnel and management must be given tools to perform efficiently. This section requires the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) to make structural changes that increase accuracy and efficiency at the regional office level in the following ways:\r\n \r\nCalls for audit of regional offices of the Veterans Benefits Administration;\r\nEnsures improved accountability and oversight of VARO management;\r\nProvides resources to VBA employees and implements changes in process that allows VBA employees to move claims through the electronic benefits awards structure more efficiently;\r\nImproves transparency to the public on the size and scope of the current backlog.\r\n \r\nTitle III - Government Response.\u00a0This section holds the government accountable and helps to ensure the claims process is a priority.\r\n \r\nDemands greater cooperation from federal agencies to transfer requested information;\r\nPresses VBA employees to process information it receives from these agencies in a timely fashion.\r\n \r\nThe text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter is attached.\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/following-casey-effort-nlrb-to-keep-pittsburgh-office-open", "Following Casey Effort, NLRB to Keep Pittsburgh Office Open", "2014-11-07", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that following his efforts to preserve the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) office in Pittsburgh, the NLRB has decided to keep the location open. The NLRB had been considering a merger between the Pittsburgh and Buffalo offices, which would result in fewer resources for workers and businesses for one of the two regions.\u00a0 With today\u2019s announcement, both the Pittsburgh and Buffalo offices will remain open. The NLRB regional offices have a history of advocating on behalf of workers against unethical business practices and providing a long-standing commitment to the welfare of the regions\u2019 workers.\r\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that the NLRB has seen the value of its Pittsburgh office and has decided to keep it open,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cFor nearly 80 years, the NLRB has promoted and defended rights of workers and employers. I know this office will continue to support the labor community\u2019s needs and foster job growth in Southwestern Pennsylvania.\u201d\r\nEarlier this year, Senator Casey sent a letter of support to NLRB Chairman Mark Pearce. Below is the full text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter:\r\nDear Chairman Gaston Pearce,\r\nAs a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, the committee with jurisdiction over the National Labor Relations Board, I am concerned with the proposed merger of the Buffalo (Region 3) and Pittsburgh (Region 6) regional offices.\u00a0 The NLRB has an impeccable reputation for remedying unfair labor practices and it is my fear that this merger will affect its positive reputation and unmatched efforts on behalf of workers across both regions.\r\nA merger of the regional offices could affect available resources, offer a less visible pro-worker presence in one of the regions and even send a mixed message about the NLRB\u2019s commitment to workers in both regions.\u00a0 Additionally, the merger could lead to a backlog of cases, causing an inefficient processing of claims and longer wait times for workers trying to stand up for themselves.\u00a0 In the past, both regional offices have done a fantastic job of advocating on behalf of workers and against the unethical practices of some employers -- it would be deeply upsetting to see a merger, while well-intentioned, tarnish the NLRB\u2019s past successes.\r\nA consolidated regional office would be responsible for covering labor practices in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Upstate New York.\u00a0 As a result, I believe that if this merger is to occur, having the Regional Director reside in Pittsburgh would allow central access to all states and workers who are governed by this office.\u00a0\r\nIncreased demand for NLRB services is expected in Pittsburgh due to projected industrial growth and increased union activity in the area.\u00a0 Pittsburgh has made great strides to reinvent its economy and make the region stronger than ever.\u00a0 According to recent data, Pittsburgh\u2019s unemployment rate is lower than Buffalo\u2019s and below the national average.\u00a0 Pittsburgh also has higher than average current and projected job growth and higher city and metro area populations as compared to its Buffalo counterpart.\u00a0\r\nBecause the NLRB has such a long-standing commitment to the welfare of the regions\u2019 workers and due to my deep concern for its efficacy going forward, I advocate for the continued presence of both regional offices.\u00a0 However, should this merger occur, I believe that the Regional Director should be located in Pittsburgh so that the NLRB\u2019s ability to continue effectively representing its many members is not compromised.\r\nSincerely,\r\nSenator Robert P. Casey Jr.\r\nChairman\r\nEmployment and Workplace Safety Subcommittee\r\nUnited States Senate\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\ncc:\u00a0 Nancy J. Shiffer, NLRB Board Member\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kent Y. Hirozawa, NLRB Board Member\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Philip A. Miscimarra, NLRB Board Member\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Harry I. Johnson, III, NLRB Board Member\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/mahanoy-city-receives-grant-to-purchase-police-vehicle-and-skid-loader", "Mahanoy City Receives Grant for New Police Radios", "2014-11-06", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Pottsville, PA \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that Mahanoy City, Schuylkill County has received a $50,000 grant and a $56,000 low-interest loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.\u00a0 The Rural Development funds, awarded through the Community Facility Economic Impact Initiative Grant Program, will be used to purchase new digital police radios and a new dump truck.\u00a0\nThe borough is purchasing six portable and four mobile digital radios.\u00a0 Due to a federal mandate, all police departments must upgrade from analog to digital radios.\u00a0 The portable radios will be carried by the police officers, while three of the four mobile radios will be placed in the police vehicles. The fourth mobile radio will be used as a base station in the police office.\u00a0 The borough has also ordered a 2015 Ford dump truck Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. through the state COSTARS program.\u00a0 The new truck is replacing an old one-ton truck.\n\u201cThe officers of Mahanoy City PD are working hard to keep their community safe,\u201d Rep. Cartwright said, \u201cand I am glad to support their efforts by helping bring home federal money to let them purchase new equipment.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/open-for-business-casey-poconos-business-leaders-sbdc-officials-promote-regions-businesses-as-great-location-for-families-tourists-to-come", "Open for Business: Casey, Poconos Business Leaders, SBDC Officials Promote Region’s Businesses As Great Location for Families, Tourists to Come", "2014-11-06", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Swiftwater, PA- Following the capture of suspect Eric Frein, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), joined by local Poconos\u2019 business leaders and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) officials, promoted the region\u2019s businesses and destinations as \u2018open for business.\u2019 Reports indicated that businesses suffered during the search as customers stayed away. Casey, who urged the Small Business Administration (SBA) to aid these businesses, described the region as an ideal place for families and tourists to come.\u00a0 Senator Casey has previous helped to secure over $2.2 million from the SBDC to educate companies on how to operate during challenging circumstances, such as during natural disasters or during the recent manhunt.\r\n\u201cThere\u2019s no question that these last few weeks have been incredibly difficult for families, police and businesses across the region,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cThese services provided by the SBDC and the SBA will help business owners who have felt the impact of their search on their businesses. There\u2019s no doubt about it: the Pocono Mountain Region is open for business. This region has been, and remains, one of the top destinations for families in the country.\u201d\r\nAccording to the Pocono Mountain Visitor Bureau, the Poconos tourism industry supports over 33,000 jobs and provides nearly $3 million in state and local taxes. Visitors to the Poconos Region spend approximately $3 billion annually on lodging, recreation, retail, food and beverage, and transportation.\r\nSenator Casey recently wrote to the SBA, urging them to provide counseling and assistance to businesses affected by the manhunt. The full text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Maria Contreras-Sweet\r\nAdministrator\r\nU.S. Small Business Administration\r\n409 3rd Street, S.W. Suite 7000\r\nWashington, DC 20024-3212\r\nDear Administrator Contreras-Sweet:\r\nI write to request that the Small Business Administration (SBA) provide counseling services to businesses in several townships in Northeastern Pennsylvania, including Blooming Grove, Porter, Lehman and Greene townships in Pike County and Barrett, Price and Paradise townships in Monroe County. Numerous small business owners in these counties have been negatively impacted by the manhunt stemming from the September 12, 2014 shooting at the state police barracks that resulted in the death of Corporal Bryon Dickson and wounding of Trooper Alex Douglass.\r\nOver the past several weeks, there have been several media reports about small business owners who are suffering financial hardship due to the continued search for the survivalist shooter that has lasted over five weeks. I urge you to offer your services to these small businesses in this area. The suspected shooter, though not apprehended, has been spotted in Pennsylvania\u2019s Poconos Mountains.\u00a0 Many of these companies would greatly benefit from the SBA\u2019s counseling and training services particularly at a time when business has been severely affected by circumstances outside of their control.\u00a0 These services would be particularly helpful in getting these small businesses back on their feet.\r\nI respectfully request you to expedite your consideration of this request and keep me informed of any new developments.\u00a0 If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or my staff.\u00a0 Thank you for your attention to this request.\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/national-service-congressional-caucus", "National Service Congressional Caucus", "2014-11-03", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Monday, November 3, 2014\n\t\t\t\t National Service Congressional Caucus \n\t\t\t\t\n                        by Bob Casey \n                        \n                 \n\t\n\t            \n\t                \n\t                    \n\t                        \n\t                    \n\t                \n\t            \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t  \t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThis month, I became a member of the National Service Congressional Caucus. I\u2019m proud to join with my Senate colleagues, from both parties, to support the vital role of national service programs in strengthening communities across America. Members of the caucus are dedicated to raising awareness and expanding service opportunities for all Americans.\r\nAfter college, I had the privilege to serve as a fifth grade teacher and eighth grade basketball coach in North Philadelphia for the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Those experiences had a profound impact on my life and I hope they were as significant for the children I served as they were for me. As Governor of Pennsylvania, my father created the Governor\u2019s Office of Citizen Service, better known as PennSERVE. My friend Senator Harris Wofford led the Corporation for National Community Service for six years after serving Pennsylvania. With more than 3,000 Americorps members and more than 15,000 Senior Corps members serving in Pennsylvania this year, I\u2019m proud to continue our state\u2019s rich tradition of service to others and support national service in the United States Senate.\n\t\t\t\t\n                    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTags:\n                            \n                                \n                                National Service", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-carper-coons-urge-president-obama-to-fund-delaware-deepening-project-in-upcoming-budget", "Casey, Carper, Coons Urge President Obama to Fund Delaware Deepening Project in Upcoming Budget", "2014-11-03", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Tom Carper (D-DE) and Chris Coons (D-DE) called on President Obama to include funding in his FY 2016 budget for the Delaware River Main Channel Deepening Project, which will allow larger commercial ships to access vital Delaware River ports.\u00a0 The senators have urged the administration to dedicate sufficient resources to this project that will create jobs and anchor the region\u2019s economy. Their efforts have helped to put this project on a pathway to completion in the next few years.\r\n\u201cA commitment by your Administration to provide robust funding for this initiative will ensure that dredging continues to support existing jobs along the Delaware River, attract new businesses to the region and allow existing companies to expand,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cThe continuation and ultimate completion of this project will also help to create new job opportunities for more than 250,000 people looking for work in the Philadelphia-Wilmington metropolitan area, and could result in more than $13 million in additional economic activity annually.\u201d\r\nThe full text of the senators\u2019 letter is below:\r\nPresident Barack Obama\r\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\r\nWashington, DC 20500\r\nDear Mr. President: We write to urge your continued support of the Delaware River Main Channel Deepening Project and request its inclusion in your budget for Fiscal Year 2016.\u00a0 We deeply appreciate the considerable federal investment to date, as this is a project of critical importance to our national infrastructure and regional economy. Vice President Biden recently visited Philadelphia to see this project first hand to stress the importance of finishing this project on time. As you know, completion of this project will spur economic development and create jobs in our respective regions.\u00a0 In order to advance this important economic development initiative toward its target completion in 2017, we request that you include the U.S. Army Corps\u2019 full capability of $62.5 million for the project in your FY 2016 budget.\r\nIn order for this crucial project to be completed on schedule, it is essential that the project receives the full capability level for FY 2016. This funding would be used to blast and remove rock during a strict three month window, which is the only period this blasting can occur due to environmental and economic reasons. If the project does not receive the full funding level, this rock removal phase will have to be completed in multiple phases and would delay the entire project by a year or more. Removing the rock over several\u00a0years will not only lead to higher project costs, but will also prevent completion of the project\u00a0by the current target of 2017.\r\nThe purpose of this project, which has received federal funding since 1999, is to deepen the existing Delaware River navigation channel from 40 to 45 feet from the mouth of the Delaware Bay North to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Camden, New Jersey.\u00a0 Receiving larger, post-Panamax vessels will allow the Ports of Philadelphia and Wilmington to remain competitive globally and domestically. This deepening initiative is expected to result in an annual increase in cargo of 2.5 million tons. In addition, your continued support for this important project will bolster our economic recovery, and will provide a direct opportunity to create tens of thousands of jobs.\r\nA commitment by your Administration to provide robust funding for this initiative will ensure that dredging continues to support existing jobs along the Delaware River, attract new businesses to the region and allow existing companies to expand. The continuation and ultimate completion of this project will also help to create new job opportunities for more than 250,000 people looking for work in the Philadelphia-Wilmington metropolitan area, and could result in more than $13 million in additional economic activity annually.\r\n   As the Administration continues to support responsible and much-needed infrastructure investments, we strongly encourage you to include funding for the full capability level of $62.5 million for the Delaware River Deepening Project in the Fiscal Year 2016 budget. \u00a0Thank you for your consideration of this request and your continued commitment to prioritize the modernization of ports along the East Coast.\u00a0 Thank you for your past support and the crucial federal investment that has already been made to date. We look forward to continuing to work with you to bring this critical project to completion.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Christopher A. Coons\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Thomas R. Carper\r\nUnited States Senator\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0United States Senator \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0United States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367 Rob Runyan (Carper) 202-224-2441 Ian Koski (Coons) 202-224-5042", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-announces-3-million-dod-grant-to-northeastern-pennsylvania", "Cartwright Announces $3 Million DOD Grant to Northeastern Pennsylvania Defense Manufacturers", "2014-10-31", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Scranton, PA \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced a $3 million grant to create the Northeast Pennsylvania Defense Transition Partnership Initiative. The grant from the Department of Defense will secure the presence of defense manufacturers in the 17th district and around Pennsylvania in the face of possible cuts to the Department of Defense budget. The initiative will help diversify businesses, support foreign direct investment, assist displaced workers and develop a strategic plan for Pennsylvania defense manufacturers.\n\u201cI am pleased to see the defense industry and other business community members coming together to plan for the future of the defense industry in Northeastern Pennsylvania,\u201d said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Congressional Defense Communities Caucus.\u00a0 \u201cDefense manufacturers create good jobs for residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania. I am proud to support this critically important part of our regional economy.\u201d\nThe two-year program will bring together local businesses, universities and economic development organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-announces-start-of-next-round-of-assistance-to-firefighter", "Cartwright Announces Start of Next Round of Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) Application Period", "2014-10-31", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC\u2013 Today, Congressman Matt Cartwright announced that the Fiscal Year 2014-appropriated Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program application period opens Monday, November 3, 2014 at 8:00 a.m.; the deadline for all grant applications is Friday, December 5, 2014 at 5:00 p.m.\u00a0 Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 began on October 1, but the Department of Homeland Security only recently finished making all of the FY 2013-appropriate awards; thus, the Department is now commencing the FY 2014-appropriated round.\nThe\u00a0primary goal of the AFG is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations. \u00a0Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders to obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.\n\u201cA number of Hose Companies and departments in the 17th Congressional District benefitted from the most recent round of AFG grants, I hope to keep that record of success going,\u201d said Cartwright.\u00a0 \u201cSmall towns and cash-strapped cities often cannot afford the equipment and equipment upgrades needed to ensure public safety, and I strongly support this grant program as it helps my local communities make ends meet.\u201d\nThe Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that applicants start their application process as soon as possible by reviewing guidance at www.grants.gov or www.fema.gov.\u00a0 These tools were produced specifically to help potential applicants begin to plan their applications ahead of the application period.\u00a0 The tools can be viewed on the AFG website or can be downloaded to the applicant\u2019s computer.\nRepresentative Cartwright has made his district-based economic development staff available to answer any questions pertaining to the AFG application process. \u00a0\nEconomic Development Specialists:\n Bob Morgan, District Director and Economic Development Specialist, Serving Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties, 570-341-1050, bob.morgan@mail.house.gov\n\tBill Hanley, Senior Economic Development Specialist, Serving Carbon and Schuylkill Counties, 570-624-0140, william.hanley@mail.house.gov\n\tApril Niver, Economic Development Coordinator, Serving Monroe and Northampton Counties, 484-546-0776, april.niver@mail.house.gov\n Regional Fire Program Specialist Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program:\nLori Bainbridge  \n\tFEMA - Region III  \n\tOne Independence Mall, 6th Floor\n615 Chestnut Street  \n\tPhiladelphia, PA 19106  \n\tPhone: (215) 931-5596  \n\tMobile: (215) 495-4280\nlori.bainbridge@fema.dhs.gov", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-capture-of-eric-frein", "Casey Statement on Capture of Eric Frein", "2014-10-30", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released a statement following the capture of suspect Eric Frein:\r\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful for the tireless work our state and national law enforcement officers undertook to capture the suspect, Eric Frein. These brave law enforcement officers have worked day and night for weeks to ensure Eric Frein is captured. We owe these officers our deepest gratitude. Their determination to capture Eric Frein over these last weeks has been a stirring reminder of the sacrifices that our law enforcement officers make on a daily basis. Tonight my thoughts are with the family of Cpl. Dickson and Trooper Alex Douglass and his family.\u201d\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-sends-letter-to-pa-acting-dep-secretary-regarding-fracking", "Cartwright Sends Letter to PA Acting DEP Secretary Regarding Fracking", "2014-10-29", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright sent a letter to Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA-DEP) Dana Aunkst.\u00a0 The letter is a significant first step in a comprehensive nationwide investigation Cartwright is leading in his role as Ranking Member of the Economic Growth, Job Creation, and Regulatory Affairs Subcommittee of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.\n\u00a0The letter requests information about Pennsylvania\u2019s regulatory process for monitoring the handling and disposal hydraulic fracturing (fracking) waste.\u00a0\nCartwright writes, \u201cAs you know, fracking wastes are categorized as \"special wastes\" and are exempt from federal hazardous waste regulations under Subtitle C of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).\u00a0 As a result, fracking wastes are regulated as non-hazardous wastes by state governments under the less stringent RCRA Subtitle D solid waste regulations.\u00a0 I am writing to inquire about your state\u2019s reporting requirements for fracking operators, fracking waste transporters and disposal site operators.\u201d\u00a0\nThe letter goes on to ask several detailed questions about the waste disposal practices and oversight capabilities in Pennsylvania.\nThe state\u2019s oversight of the process has come under scrutiny after the release of PA Auditor General Eugene Depasquale\u2019s audit of the PA-DEP\u2019s performance in monitoring potential impacts to water quality from fracking.\u00a0\nThe audit concluded that Pennsylvania\u2019s current system for oversight of fracking waste \u201cis not an effective monitoring tool\u201d and \u201cit is not proactive in discouraging improper, even illegal, disposal of waste.\u201d\nDan Raichel, Staff Attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council added, \u201cNo matter how the Pennsylvania government slices it\u2014there\u2019s no denying that fracking waste is toxic and must be kept away from our drinking water. \u00a0In order to keep residents safe, it is critical that we first know how companies are disposing of it, and where it ends up.\u00a0 It\u2019s time for Pennsylvania to come clean about how it's managing this dangerous waste.\u201d\n\"For too long fracking companies have been able to shield the public from knowing the volume, contents, and disposal methods of waste produced by their operations because of an exemption from our nation's hazardous waste law. This investigation is a key step to shed light on this practice and to inform Pennsylvanians about how their state is handling millions of gallons of chemically-treated water. It also highlights the importance of repealing all of the loopholes the oil and gas industry exploits in our nation's environmental laws,\" said Jessica Ennis, senior legislative representative with Earthjustice.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://doyle.house.gov/press-release/officials-celebrate-completion-william-d-mansfield-memorial-bridge", "Officials Celebrate the Completion of the William D. Mansfield Memorial Bridge", "2014-10-28", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mike Doyle", "D000482", "doyle.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "PITTSBURGH \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Doyle,\u00a0Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, State Senator Jim Brewster, State Representatives Marc Gergely and Bill Kortz and County Council Member Bob Macey were joined earlier today by federal, state, county and local officials to celebrate the completion of the William D. Mansfield Memorial Bridge. After a brief ceremony, the officials participated in a formal ribbon cutting on the almost two-year project.\n\u00a0\n\u201cPublic infrastructure like the Mansfield Bridge is essential for our country\u2019s economy, and affects the lives of Americans on a daily basis,\u201d said Congressman Doyle. \u201cIt\u2019s government\u2019s responsibility to provide and maintain safe, efficient and reliable infrastructure in our communities. The Mansfield Bridge is a great example of how important such infrastructure is. It\u2019s a main thoroughfare for the Mon Valley. Working together across all levels of government, we were able to provide the funding for this much-needed reconstruction project, while also doing what it took to ensure that this project was completed as quickly as possible with as little disruption as possible. I\u2019m very pleased to have been part of this team.\u201d\n\u00a0\nThe William D. Mansfield Memorial Bridge was originally built in 1948 to carry traffic from McKeesport and Glassport to Dravosburg over the Monongahela River. Last rehabilitated in 1982, a complete rehabilitation of the 1,934 foot, 12-span truss bridge was begun on January 12, 2012.\n\u00a0\n\n\t\u201cThe completion of this project has been a long time in coming, and I\u2019m thrilled to see the end of it for all of the residents of the Mon Valley,\u201d said County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. \u201cWhen I was on County Council, I held a series of bridge summits to focus on the county-maintained spans over the Monongahela River, including the Mansfield Bridge. Those summits were the beginning of a long road which included approximately $150 million in constructions costs; I am proud to see the groundwork that we laid 14 years ago come to fruition today.\u201d\n\t\u00a0\n\nWork consisted of a new concrete deck, sidewalks with handrails, barriers, expansion joints, expansion dams, bearings, structural steel repairs and painting of the entire 1.3 million square foot structure. \u00a0The approach roadways to the bridge were also reconstructed and paved, lighting was replaced and a new sidewalk handrail was installed.\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe completion of this project has improved traffic as well as the quality of life in these communities. I have no doubt that the drivers who utilize the bridge were very pleased to see the cones removed and traffic flowing as it should,\u201d said Senator Brewster. \u201cAlthough it has been a long time coming, the improvements were well worth the wait. I really commend County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Allegheny County, PennDOT and the contractors for a job well done.\u201d\n\u00a0\nConstruction work was phased to keep the bridge open to traffic at all times. The project was completed by Joseph B. Fay, Inc. three months ahead of schedule and within budget. \u00a0The project cost $33.5 million - 80% of which was funded by the Federal Highway Administration, 15% by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and 5% by Allegheny County.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe Mansfield Bridge project has been on the drawing board for years, and undertaking an infrastructure improvement on that scale is not easy,\u201d said Rep. Gergely. \u201cNow that the work is completed on the span, the bridge today really reflects the redevelopment that is going on in our communities, and is something that we can all be proud of in the Mon Valley.\u201d\n\u00a0\nThe Mansfield Bridge opened October 9, 2014 to unrestricted traffic, with all traffic control measures being removed. The only remaining work, installation of the new handrails on the approaches to the bridge, is to be completed this week.\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe project team did a great job rehabilitating the entire bridge, ramps, railings and lights. I am very happy with the results of this much needed project and kudos to the hard-working men and women that made this happen,\u201d said Rep. Kortz. \u201cIt is crucial to mention that the structural integrity has been returned as well as the aesthetics. I believe if Senator Mansfield were here today, he would be proud to see what this team has done to the bridge bearing his name.\u201d\n\u00a0\nThe design for the rehabilitation of the County-owned bridge was done by Michael Baker International with SAI Consulting/Management Engineering Corporation serving as the construction manager and inspector on the project.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cThe Mansfield Bridge, along with other spans over the Monongahela River, has been a county priority. The project was not without its challenges due to the sheer magnitude of work,\u201d said Council Member Macey. \u201cTwo years ago, the bridge needed repair and had reached the end of its life. It was an eyesore, but today it is beautiful.\u201d\n\u00a0\nWilliam D. Mansfield was the publisher of the McKeesport Daily News from 1927 until his death in 1952 at the age of 74. He also served as Chair of the Republican Party of McKeesport, was a Pennsylvania State Senator from 1923-1934 and an Allegheny County Commissioner from 1932-1935. The bridge named in his honor passes over railyards, industrial sites and Route 837 to connect Fifth Avenue in McKeesport and Richland Avenue in Draovosburg.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/blog/human-rights-in-iran", "Human Rights in Iran", "2014-10-27", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Monday, October 27, 2014\n\t\t\t\t Human Rights in Iran \n\t\t\t\t\n                        by Bob Casey \n                        \n                 \n\t\n\t            \n\t                \n\t                    \n\t                        \n\t                    \n\t                \n\t            \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t  \t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLast week, Iranian citizens took to the streets of Isfahan to protest a recent spate of violent acid attacks against women.\u00a0 Holding placards showing their solidarity with the victims, the peaceful protestors called for Iranian authorities to hold the attackers accountable.\r\nWe know that these kind of egregious attacks happen against women around the world, and I have spoken out before about incidents in Afghanistan and Pakistan.\u00a0 Women are often the drivers of economic growth and cultural change, but they are also often the targets of horrible violence.\r\nWhat is especially troubling about the Isfahan attacks is that they follow the passage of a new law in Iranian parliament, which is reportedly \u201cdesigned to protect those who correct people acting in an un-Islamic way.\u201d\u00a0 It is the women, the survivors, who should be protected, not their attackers.\r\nEven as the Administration continues to negotiate with the Iranian regime on nuclear issues, we cannot lose sight of the regime\u2019s egregious human rights record.\u00a0 The Iranian government must take action \u2013 at both the local and federal levels \u2013 to hold accountable those hardliners who perpetrated these attacks and to reverse the legislative framework that protects these criminals.\n\t\t\t\t\n                    \n    \n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTags:\n                            \n                                \n                                Afghanistan,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Human Rights,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Iran,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                Pakistan,\u00a0\n                            \n                                \n                                violence against women", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-calls-for-passage-of-legislation-that-would-restore-gutted-portions-of-voting-rights-act", "Casey Calls for Passage of Legislation that Would Restore Gutted Portions of Voting Rights Act", "2014-10-24", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Philadelphia, PA- With voting rights under attack across the country, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today called for legislation that would restore gutted portions of the Voting Rights Act. Since the 2010 election, new voting restrictions have been added in 22 states, and the Supreme Court\u2019s recent decision in Shelby County v. Holder struck down one of the key provisions of the Voting Rights Act. Casey called on Congress to restore the Voting Rights Act and ensure that the right to vote receives protection under federal and state statutes.\r\n\u201cThe right to vote has been called the most precious of our rights, the \u2018primary right by which all other rights are protected,\u2019 however, over the past few years, legislation and court decisions at both state and federal levels have been slowly chipping away at this right,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cI am calling on Congress to act quickly to reaffirm the Voting Rights Act and put in place the necessary protections to guarantee all citizens the right to vote, regardless of race, national origin or language. When Congress reconvenes I will be looking at ways Congress can underscore and protect American\u2019s most fundamental right, the right to vote.\u201d\r\nOn June 25, 2013, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision that Section 4(b) of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 is unconstitutional. Section 4(b) contained the formula for determining which jurisdictions were subject to \u201cpreclearance\u201d under Section 5 of the VRA, meaning that any voting rights changes had to be reviewed and approved by the Department of Justice before taking effect. While the Court determined that the formula was unconstitutional because it was based on data from 1964-1972 and was no longer based on current needs, the Court left Section 5 ineffective but intact, allowing Congress the opportunity to redraft the coverage formula based on current needs.\r\nVoting Rights Amendment Act Major Provisions \r\nThe Voting Rights Amendment Act would amend the Voting Rights Act by allowing courts to \u201cbail-in\u201d (require preclearance for voting changes in) a State or political subdivision based violations of the Fourteenth or Fifteenth Amendments, federal voting rights law, and Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.\r\n \r\nStates can be bailed in if there are five or more violations over the preceding fifteen years, at least one of which must be a State-wide violation.\r\nPolitical subdivisions can be bailed in if there are three or more violations in the preceding fifteen years, or if there is one violation coupled with \u201cpersistent and extremely low minority voter turnout.\u201d\r\nStates or political subdivision will continue to be covered for 10 years starting on the January 1 of the year of the most recent voting rights violation, unless the state or subdivision obtains a \u201cbail-out\u201d\r\nVoting rights violations include a final judgment in violation of the Constitution or Section 2 of the VRA, failure or denial of preclearance by a court, or failure or denial of preclearance by the Attorney General.\r\n\r\nStates and political subdivisions (including those in covered States) would still be able to \u201cbail out\u201d of coverage as currently permitted by the VRA if they have no violations.\r\nSection 3(c), which allows a federal court to bail-in jurisdictions found to have intentionally discriminated in violation of the Fourteenth or Fifteenth Amendment, would be expanded to allow bail-in based on violation of federal voting laws and discriminatory effect, rather than only where the plaintiffs can show intentional discrimination\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\u00a0Senator Casey has been outspoken in his opposition to Pennsylvania\u2019s efforts to enact a voter ID law (link, link). He has previously called on Senate leaders to expedite consideration of legislation that would reinstate Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act (link). Casey also has been opposed to the Citizens United Supreme Court ruling, which would increase the power of corporate and special interests in elections (link).\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/senators-chuck-schumer-and-bob-casey-plan-bill-to-block-benefits-for-ex-nazis", "Senators Chuck Schumer and Bob Casey plan bill to block benefits for ex-Nazis", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By:\u00a0\r\n                    Richard Lardner\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Thursday, October 23, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n              \r\n                \r\n                  \r\n                \r\n              \r\n            \r\n            WASHINGTON - Two Democratic senators announced Thursday they will introduce legislation that would stop suspected Nazi war criminals from collecting U.S. Social Security benefits.\r\nThe bill by Sens. Chuck Schumer of New York and Bob Casey of Pennsylvania will be offered in mid-November, when Congress returns to session after the midterm elections.\r\nTheir announcement comes four days after The Associated Press reported that dozens of Nazi suspects collected millions of dollars in Social Security payments after being forced out of the United States.\r\nThe payments flowed through a legal loophole that has given the Justice Department leverage to persuade Nazi suspects to leave. If they agreed to go, or simply fled before deportation, they could keep their Social Security benefits, AP's investigation found. The Justice Department denied using Social Security payments as a tool for removing Nazi suspects.\r\nThe legislation to be introduced by Schumer and Casey would deny federal public benefits such as Social Security to individuals who participated in the Nazis' persecution of Jews and other civilians during World War II.\r\nUnder the terms of their bill, an immigration judge would be required to issue an order declaring a Nazi persecutor \"to be ineligible for any public benefit and prohibiting any person from providing such a benefit.\" That order would then be sent to any government agency or office that is providing benefits or has received an application for them.\r\nSchumer and Casey are members of the Senate Finance Committee.\r\n\"Nazis war criminals have been allowed to collect Social Security for far too long, and that needs to stop now,\" Schumer said. \"It is simply perverse that these criminals have been able to live comfortably abroad thanks to the American taxpayer.\r\nCasey credited AP's investigation with revealing \"a gross injustice.\" He added that he's \"hopeful that Democrats and Republicans will come together to fix this problem in the very near future.\"\r\nRep. Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y., has said she will introduce similar legislation in the House. Maloney also demanded Monday that the inspectors general at the Justice Department and Social Security Administration conduct an \"immediate investigation\" into the benefits payments.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-hears-testimony-on-tax-fraud-from-local-officials-as-reading-and-communities-throughout-pa-work-to-prevent-fraud-and-theft-", "Casey Hears Testimony on Tax Fraud From Local Officials as Reading and Communities Throughout PA Work to Prevent Fraud and Theft", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Reading, PA- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Chairman of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Taxation and IRS Oversight, discussed the impact of tax fraud in Reading and across Pennsylvania during a hearing-style event. Casey received testimony on local instances of tax fraud from Berks County District Attorney John Adams, as well as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Supervisor and former IRS official John DiLullo. Senator Casey also discussed potential solutions and prevention measures to combat identity theft tax fraud.\r\n\u201cIdentity theft tax fraud is a persistent and troubling problem for taxpayers, law enforcement and local, state and federal government,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cOfficials in Berks County know the significance of this problem; according to DA Adams, highly organized criminals have found a way to make millions stealing Social Security numbers from residents of Puerto Rico to file fraudulent returns. Versions of this story are echoed across Pennsylvania and the entire country. As the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Taxation and IRS Oversight Subcommittee, I am dedicated to working with local law enforcement and others to better confront this issue and protect taxpayers.\u201d\r\nRecently, the GAO published a report in August showing that the IRS had paid $5.2 billion in fraudulent returns related to identity theft in 2013, about the same amount as in 2011. The GAO acknowledged that since its last report, in 2012, the IRS had taken valuable measures to better understand and detect identity theft fraud. However, the problem persists and criminals are constantly adapting their tactics. Below is a summary table detailing the GAO\u2019s findings regarding how many fraudulent refund claims were filed, how many were prevented or recovered, and how many erroneous refund payments the IRS acknowledges it made in 2013.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\r\nNumber of returns\r\n\r\n\r\nPct. of Returns\r\n\r\n\r\nAmt. of refunds\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIDT refund claims identified\r\n\r\n\r\n5 million\r\n\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n\r\n$29.4 billion\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIDT refunds prevented/recovered\r\n\r\n\r\n4.1 million\r\n\r\n\r\n82 percent\r\n\r\n\r\n$24.2 billion\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIDT refunds paid\r\n\r\n\r\n0.9 million\r\n\r\n\r\n18 percent\r\n\r\n\r\n$5.2 billion\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSenator Casey has previously worked to combat tax fraud. In 2012, Casey exposed lax federal rules that allowed identity thieves to obtain recently deceased Americans\u2019 Social Security numbers for as little as $10 (link). Senator Casey also called on Attorney General Eric Holder, Social Security Commissioner Michael Astrue and IRS Commissioner Douglas Shulman to work to create a task force to prevent tax fraud related to identity theft in 2o13 (link). More recently, Senator Casey\u2019s plan to combat tax fraud with the \u201cDeath Master List\u201d was incorporated into the budget agreement last December (link).\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pushes-for-enhanced-safety-guidelines-for-students-studying-abroad", "Casey Pushes for Enhanced Safety Guidelines for Students Studying Abroad", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released a letter today to the U.S. Department of Education urging the adoption of enhanced safety guidelines for students studying abroad. The request comes after Senators Casey, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Al Franken (D-MN) were contacted by a family whose son, Ravi Thackurdeen, a sophomore pre-medical student at Swarthmore College, drowned while studying abroad in Costa Rica in 2012. Thackurdeen was participating in Duke University\u2019s Global Health Program and drowned on a program-sponsored excursion to a beach known to have dangerous currents and where no lifeguard was present. Study abroad programs are largely unregulated and may even allow students to remain in countries where the U.S. State Department has active travel warnings or has evacuated the families of U.S. embassy staff. The number of American students who die each year during study abroad programs is tracked by the ClearCause Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Sheryl Hill, whose son died while studying abroad in Japan in 2007. An analysis of recent news reports by the ClearCause Foundation indicates that at least 10 American students died while studying abroad over the past six months.\r\nIn the letter, the Senators urged Education Secretary, Arne Duncan, to create enhanced safety guidelines for students and to implement a procedure for notifying families of safety concerns that exist in countries students plan to visit. The Senators also pushed the Department of Education to encourage students who study abroad, to enroll in the U.S. State Department\u2019s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides critical travel information and issues country-specific travel warnings.\r\n\u201cSafety is a necessary prerequisite to a student\u2019s ability to learn, both at home and abroad. As more and more students choose to study abroad as part of K-12 and postsecondary education, it is increasingly critical that students and families have an adequate understanding of possible risks and necessary precautions,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cIncreased information and transparency will empower students and families to make informed choices and help U.S.-based institutions and programs to create safe, rewarding educational experiences for students who participate in study-abroad.\u201d\r\n\u201cStudying abroad is such a rich experience and can have a significant and positive impact on a young person\u2019s life,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cBut no parent or child should be in the dark about the safety concerns that exist in the foreign country where they plan to study. Our students and parents deserve to be better informed and should be educated about existing concerns as well as what options exist when an emergency occurs while studying abroad. There must be better oversight of these programs for our students. We hope the Department of Education will swiftly review and implement these common sense recommendations to keep students safe.\u201d\r\n\u201cStudents from across Minnesota study abroad to enhance their education and learn about other cultures, but they shouldn\u2019t have to risk their safety to do so,\u201d said Senator Franken. \u201cI\u2019m pushing the Department of Education to work with the State Department to do everything they can to ensure students have all the information they need to stay safe when they go abroad to study.\u201d\r\n\u00a0\u201cRavi epitomized the true meaning of well-being, wisdom, ability to wonder and to give back,\u201d said the family of Ravi Thackurdeen.\u00a0\u201cCaring, warm, compassionate, he showed everyone around him that learning is not about doing the right things in school to get the right job to achieve some socially constructed idea of success. It's about seeing all the beauty that life has to offer, in its many forms.\u00a0 We have gravely lost out.\u00a0 I want to make sure no other family ever feels our pain. Senators Gillibrand, Casey and Franken, thank you for being parents first, for understanding the need to protect our children, our future, Americas\u2019 future.\u201d\r\nMore than 280,000 post-secondary students from the United States studied abroad for academic credit in 2012, the highest annual rate of post-secondary American students studying abroad to date. Many American students in middle school and high school also travel abroad as part of their studies, but data on the number of students who do so is severely limited. According to an analysis of news reports by the ClearCause Foundation, more than 400 American students have died while on study abroad programs in the past 15 years.\u00a0In addition, a 2012 report published in the journal Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice and Policy\u00a0indicated that study abroad increases the risk for sexual assault among female undergraduates.\r\nStudy abroad programs can be school or faculty sponsored, or privately operated, by outside organizations. Guidelines for the safety and protection of students vary greatly among various programs. Some study abroad programs may even allow students to remain in countries where the State Department has active travel warnings or has evacuated the family members of American embassy staff, due to concerns about safety or security.\r\nIn their letter to the Department of Education, the Senators wrote, \u201cWe must ensure that our students and their families have relevant information about safety concerns to inform their decisions about where to study and what to do when dangerous circumstances arise. Further, we must have clear safety guidelines for study abroad programs, especially in countries where the U.S. Department of State has active warnings and where U.S. Fulbright Program participants are not permitted to remain\u2026.We urge you to take steps to ensure that K-12 and postsecondary education institutions whose students participate in study abroad programs are informing their students about safety and security concerns related to studying abroad, and providing oversight to the programs and locations where their students are studying.\u201d\r\nThe Senators recommended four specific actions to enhance safety measures for K-12 and post-secondary school study abroad programs which include:\r\n \r\nDeveloping a mechanism within the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to enable students to sign up for the STEP program;\r\nDirecting K-12 and post-secondary institutions to encourage students to sign up for the STEP program;\r\nProviding timely information on the U.S. Department of Education website about safety concerns that exist while students are studying abroad; and\r\nDeveloping guidelines for K-12 and post-secondary institutions that ensure study abroad programs have the same safety guidelines and procedures as U.S. State Department sponsored programs.\r\n \r\nFull text of the letter to the Secretary of Education is attached.\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-schumer-to-introduce-bill-to-close-loophole-that-allows-expelled-nazis-to-collect-social-security-benefits", "Casey, Schumer to Introduce Bill to Close Loophole That Allows Expelled Nazis to Collect Social Security Benefits", "2014-10-23", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Charles Schumer (D-NY), members of the Senate Finance Committee, announced that they will soon introduce legislation to close a loophole that has allowed Nazis to collect Social Security benefits. A new investigation by the Associated Press revealed that dozens of Nazi war criminals have received Social Security benefits years after being forced out of the U.S. Casey and Schumer pledged to introduce the legislation soon and push for speedy consideration.\r\n\u201cThe idea that Nazi war criminals could receive Social Security benefits is deeply disturbing and should be remedied quickly,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cIn the coming weeks we\u2019ll be introducing legislation to close this loophole. This investigation has revealed a gross injustice and I\u2019m hopeful that Democrats and Republicans will come together to fix this problem in the very near future\u201d\r\n\u201cNazis war criminals have been allowed to collect Social Security for far too long, and that needs to stop now,\u201d Schumer said. \u201cIt is simply perverse that these criminals have been able to live comfortably abroad thanks to the American taxpayer. I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will work hard to right this wrong once and for all.\u201d\r\n\u201cI am so pleased that Senators Bob Casey and Chuck Schumer will be leading this effort in the Senate,\u201d said Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. \u201cI could not ask for better partners. We must work in an expeditious manner to terminate these benefits once and for all. The American taxpayer should not be subsidizing the retirements of those guilty of the worst atrocities in human history.\u201d   \u00a0\r\nThe bill, now supported by the World Jewish Congress, would deny Federal public benefits to individuals who have been participants in Nazi persecution. If an immigration judge finds that an individual has participated in Nazi persecution, that judge is required to:\r\n(1)\u00a0\u00a0 promptly issue an order declaring the respondent to be ineligible for any Federal public benefit and prohibiting any person from providing such a benefit to the respondent; and\r\n(2)\u00a0\u00a0 transmit a copy of the order to any governmental entity or person known to be so providing such a benefit and to any governmental entity or person known to have received an application for benefits that has not been finally adjudicated. Authorizes the Attorney General to review any finding or conclusion made, or order issued and to initiate any review within 30 days.\r\nRequires any order, finding, or conclusion to be final:\r\n(1)\u00a0\u00a0 30 days after it is issued if the Attorney General does not initiate such a review; or\r\n(2) either upon the issuance of a decision by the Attorney General or 90 days after the order, finding, or conclusion is issued, whichever is earlier, if the Attorney General does initiate a review. Allows any party aggrieved by a final order issued under this Act to obtain judicial review of the order by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit by filing a petition for such review no later than 30 days after the final order becomes final, or completion of any review by the Attorney General, whichever is later.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo (Casey) 202-228-6367  Matt House (Schumer) 202-224-2939", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cartwright.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cartwright-announces-134400-in-grant-funds-to-the-northampton-area", "Cartwright Announces $134,400 in Grant Funds to the Northampton Area Community College", "2014-10-22", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Easton, PA \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that the Department of Transportation has awarded the Northampton County Area Community College a $134,400.00 Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operator Safety Training grant.\u00a0 The grant was awarded through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).\u00a0\nThe grant funds will be used to recruit, train, and provide job placement assistance to members of the United States Armed Forces. FMCSA awards grants to organizations which provide CMV operator training, including colleges, universities, vocational-technical schools, truck driver training schools and associations.\u00a0 The funds are used to recruit, train, and provide students with job placement assistance after graduation, including the training of current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces to obtain their commercial driver\u2019s license.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-pushes-for-continued-funding-for-counterdrug-center-in-fort-indiantown-gap-that-aids-local-law-enforcement", "Casey Pushes for Continued Funding for Counterdrug Center in Fort Indiantown Gap that Aids Local Law Enforcement", "2014-10-22", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Fort Indiantown Gap, PA- As Central Pennsylvania and communities across the state battle a heroin epidemic, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today pushed for continued funding for National Guard Counterdrug Training Centers across the country and in Fort Indiantown Gap. In the past, Counterdrug Training Centers have been targeted for cuts.\u00a0 Casey discussed his amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would strengthen the Northeast Counterdrug Training Center (NCTC).\r\n\u201cOur law enforcement officials who are on the front lines of the fight against drugs gain valuable training and experience at the counter drug centers,\u201d said Senator Casey. \u201cNow is not the time to cut back on these resources which enhance their capability to combat drug trafficking.\u201d\r\nSenator Casey\u2019s NDAA amendment would: 1) expand the definition of \u201cdrug interdiction and counter-drug activities\u201d to include operations that target transnational criminal organization drug smuggling and associated illicit activities within and on state borders, and 2) mandate that the Department of Defense work with other agencies to develop a sustainable funding solution for the centers. NDAA will be one of the first items debated when Congress reconvenes in November.\u00a0\r\nPreviously, Casey has fought to keep these centers open through a bipartisan effort in 2012 (link) and earlier this year (link).\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-urges-small-business-administration-to-aid-poconos-businesses-impacted-by-frein-search", "Casey Urges Small Business Administration to Aid Poconos Businesses Impacted by Frein Search", "2014-10-22", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced that he has sent a letter to the Small Business Administration (SBA) urging the agency to aid businesses in the Poconos that have been impacted by the Frein search. In his letter to Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet, Casey discussed the benefits that training and counseling services could have for businesses that have seen their bottom lines impacted by the search.\r\n\u201cThere\u2019s no question that these last few weeks have been incredibly difficult for families, police and businesses across the Poconos,\u201d Senator Casey said. \u201cThis is one area where the federal government can aid the Poconos during this challenging time. These services provided by the Small Business Administration can help business owners who have seen their businesses impacted over these last weeks.\u201d\r\nThe full text of Senator Casey\u2019s letter can be seen below:\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Maria Contreras-Sweet\r\nAdministrator\r\nU.S. Small Business Administration\r\n409 3rd Street, S.W. Suite 7000\r\nWashington, DC 20024-3212\r\nDear Administrator Contreras-Sweet:\r\nI write to request that the Small Business Administration (SBA) provide counseling services to businesses in several townships in Northeastern Pennsylvania, including Blooming Grove, Porter, Lehman and Greene townships in Pike County and Barrett, Price and Paradise townships in Monroe County. Numerous small business owners in these counties have been negatively impacted by the manhunt stemming from the September 12, 2014 shooting at the state police barracks that resulted in the death of Corporal Bryon Dickson and wounding of Trooper Alex Douglass.\r\nOver the past several weeks, there have been several media reports about small business owners who are suffering financial hardship due to the continued search for the survivalist shooter that has lasted over five weeks. I urge you to offer your services to these small businesses in this area. The suspected shooter, though not apprehended, has been spotted in Pennsylvania\u2019s Poconos Mountains.\u00a0 Many of these companies would greatly benefit from the SBA\u2019s counseling and training services particularly at a time when business has been severely affected by circumstances outside of their control.\u00a0 These services would be particularly helpful in getting these small businesses back on their feet.\r\nI respectfully request you to expedite your consideration of this request and keep me informed of any new developments.\u00a0 If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or my staff.\u00a0 Thank you for your attention to this request.\r\nSincerely,\r\nRobert P. Casey, Jr.\r\nUnited States Senator\r\n###\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\tPress Contact\r\n\t\t\t\t\tJohn Rizzo 202-228-6367", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://doyle.house.gov/press-release/long-term-team-effort-produces-new-local-commissary", "Long-Term Team Effort Produces New Local Commissary", "2014-10-21", "2014", "2014-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mike Doyle", "D000482", "doyle.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Pittsburgh, PA \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Doyle (D-PA-14) joined U.S. Representative Tim Murphy (R-PA-18), local officials, and representatives of the military today in officially opening the new Commissary and Post Exchange in Moon Township.\n\u00a0\n\u201cThis facility will serve thousands of active duty service members, guardsmen and reservists, retirees and their families,\u201d Congressman Doyle observed. \u201cI am keenly aware of the sacrifices that the men and women in our armed forces make for our country. That\u2019s why so many of us have worked so hard for so long to make certain that our current service personnel, our retirees, and their families could continue to have access to the support services they deserve.\u201d\n\u00a0\nIn 2005, the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission (BRAC) recommended closing the Charles E. Kelly Support Facility (CEKSF) in Oakdale. Closing the facility meant that 168,000 military personnel and veterans lost the Commissary, Post Exchange, and Military Clothing Sales Store services that they had come to rely on.\n\u00a0\nIn the years since then, members of the previous and current delegation took numerous steps to see the project become a reality, including fighting to keep the facility open, securing funds to build a new Commissary, and fighting to get final authorization for the project from the Department of Defense. \u00a0The Army and Air Force Exchange Services also built a Post Exchange \u2013 which will provide additional services to local military personnel, retirees, and their families \u2013 adjacent to the commissary. With the construction of the commissary and a Post Exchange, many important services will continue to be available to the military families and eligible retirees in the tri-state area.\n\u00a0\nThese new facilities are located near several local military units \u2013 the Air Force Reserve's 911th Airlift Wing, the Pennsylvania Air National Guard's 171st Air Refueling Wing, and the Army Reserve's 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cI worked with a lot of the folks who are here today for just short of ten years to ensure that we kept a commissary in this region \u2013 concerned citizens, local officials, and the local Congressional delegation,\u201d Congressman Doyle noted. \u201cWe kept plugging away, year after year, despite delay, denial, and opposition from the Defense Department \u2013 and against all odds \u2013 this true \u2018team effort\u2019 has succeeded. It couldn\u2019t have happened without the perseverance, hard work, and cooperation of people all over this region. \u00a0I\u2019m honored to have been a part of this remarkable community effort.\u201d\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 633, "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": "PA", "p2": "2014"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 633, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=PA&year=2014", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 633, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2014&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "PA", "label": "PA", "count": 633, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2014", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "2014", "label": "2014", "count": 633, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2014-10-21,http~3A~2F~2Fdoyle~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fpress-release~2Flong-term-team-effort-produces-new-local-commissary", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2014&_next=2014-10-21%2Chttp~3A~2F~2Fdoyle~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fpress-release~2Flong-term-team-effort-produces-new-local-commissary&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 270.35022201016545, "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"}