{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"WA\" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-reichert-call-on-defense-secretary-mattis-to-immediately-implement-inspector-generals-recommendations-to-comply-with-fbi-background-check-reporting-requirements-", "Kilmer, Reichert Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector General\u2019s Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.27.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer, Reichert Call on Defense Secretary Mattis to Immediately Implement Inspector Generals Recommendations to Comply with FBI Background Check Reporting Requirements  \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Following the report earlier this month from the Department of Defenses Inspector General showing that the Military Services did not consistently submit convicted offenders fingerprint cards and final disposition reports to the FBIs Next Generation Identification Database, Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Dave Reichert (R-WA) issued a letter asking Secretary of Defense James Mattis to immediately implement the OIGs recommendations to prevent future reporting lapses. The bipartisan pair also requested an outline of the DODs plan to correct previous reporting errors.\r\nThe OIG found that the militarys failure to report convictions and to deliver fingerprints to the FBI was systemic. The OIG has conducted regular investigations identifying this issue since 1997. This most recent report found 601 of the 2502 fingerprint cards that the DOD was required to report on to the FBI were not submitted as required. That amounts to 24 percent. One of the unreported cases was the Air Forces court-martialing of Devin P. Kelley who was convicted on two counts equivalent to felonies in the civil system stemming from a domestic violence incident. Had the Air Force properly reported the conviction, Devin Kelley would have failed an FBI background check, possibly preventing him from purchasing the guns and body armor he used to murder churchgoers at the First Baptist Church in Southerland Springs, Texas in one of the nations deadliest mass shootings in history earlier this year.\r\nThe Texas mass-shooting, like too many other acts of gun violence, was preventable, but the government failed to do the simple paperwork required to keep guns out of the hands of convicted criminals, Rep. Derek Kilmer said, Everyone I have talked to in our community wants to see guns kept out of the hands of dangerous convicted criminals. Background checks are useless if the databases designed to prevent convicted violent criminals from getting guns arent up to date. Secretary Mattis shouldnt waste another second to implement the Inspector Generals recommendations which could prevent future tragedies.\r\nRep. Reichert said: As a former Sheriff and law enforcement officer for 33 years, I know how important it is to keep guns out of the hands of those who seek to do harm. It is why we should do all we can to make sure our federal background check system is strong and effective, including ensuring relevant information is in the system. I am proud to join with Rep. Kilmer to urge the Department of Defense to quickly improve their background check reporting practices and to request specific information on how they plan to ensure no individual slips through the cracks.\r\nThe DOD OIG made several specific recommendations to address these deficiencies. For example, the OIG recommended that the Secretaries of the Army, Navy and Air Force ensure that all fingerprint cards and final disposition reports be promptly reported to the FBI. More broadly, the OIG recommended that the Secretaries of each of the militarys branches, as well as the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, and the Deputy Chief Management Officer immediately perform a comprehensive review of their criminal investigative databases and files to ensure all required fingerprint cards and final disposition reports for qualifying offenses at least to 1998 have been submitted to the FBI in compliance with the DOD and FBI requirements.\r\nEarlier this month, a bipartisan group of US Senators also called on the DOD to implement the Inspector Generals recommendations. According to Politico, US Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) said, \"The thing that is infuriating is this shooter, it was illegal for this shooter to have a firearm. The reason he had a firearm is the federal government screwed up.\"\r\nIn addition to complying with federal background check reporting requirements, Reps. Kilmer and Reichert supported a bill Rep. Kilmer co-introduced called the Veteran Urgent Access to Mental Healthcare Act, which would increase the mental health care options available to veterans with an other than honorable discharge. Last month, the House of Representatives passed the legislation. Under current law, service members separated from the military with an other than honorable discharge are not allowed to seek care at VA facilities, which bars many veterans in need of mental health care from receiving it.\r\nThe OIGs report can be read in full here.\r\nThe letter Kilmer and Reichert sent to Secretary Mattis is available in full here.\r\n### \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution", "Smith Statement on House Passage of the Continuing Resolution", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Adam Smith", "S000510", "adamsmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Republicans just reneged on their responsibility to properly fund the federal government because they were too busy giving away a $1.5 trillion dollar tax cut to corporations and the wealthy. By falling back on another short-term continuing resolution, almost a quarter of year past the due date for proper appropriations bills, they have clearly demonstrated that they are not willing to do their job. Their lack of action will directly and negatively affect the people who reside in the Ninth Congressional District and across the country.\nHouse Republicans cannot continue to punt their responsibilities.We must do the job that we have been elected to do; particularly enacting a comprehensive budget that fairly funds important priorities, such as education, job growth, protection of the environment, and our national security.We also need to bring up the legislation necessary to ensure DREAMers can remain at home in this country, and not live in fear of their families being pulled apart. Inaction on these vital issues is unacceptable.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-smith-on-passage-of-hr-1", "Statement from Congressman Smith on Passage of H.R. 1", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Adam Smith", "S000510", "adamsmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Republicans final tax bill affirmed my opposition to this dangerous proposal. Todays vote increased the deficit by a staggering $1.5 trillion, which overwhelmingly benefits the rich and corporations at a time when we are running historic deficits and wealth is concentrated at the top. This bill was so partisan and poorly constructed, and the process so lacking, that Senate parliamentary rules required provisions to be dropped at the last minute, which required the House to vote on the bill twice.\nThis measure endangers Medicare and other mandatory programs, leaving them susceptible to drastic cuts that will hurt ordinary Americans. It will throw our health care system into chaos and even harms our environment by opening up the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge up for oil drilling. This bill set our government on an extremely irresponsible path and its negative effects will be felt by generations to come.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-honor-seattle-s-baseball-legend-edgar", "Jayapal Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Honor Seattles Baseball Legend Edgar Martinez", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, joined by 35 members of Congress including Representatives Nydia Velzquez (D-NY), Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (R-PR), Washington states Adam Smith (D-WA), Rick Larsen (D-WA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Denny Heck (D-WA) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced a resolution honoring the Seattle Mariners' Edgar Martinez for his outstanding career as a professional baseball player and for his noteworthy humanitarian and philanthropic efforts.\nFor all the ways that Edgar has given back to our Seattle community, as well as our global community, it is an honor to recognize him. He shows, in no uncertain terms, that commitment and compassionon and off the fieldcan change lives for the better, said Rep. Jayapal. From his fellowship program that benefits teachers and students to his funding of muscular dystrophy research, Edgar goes to bat for our community time and again. Thank you, Edgar, for all you do.\nAs a member of our organization for more than 25 years, we know firsthand that Edgar is both a Hall of Fame person, and a Hall of Fame player, said Kevin Mather, Seattle Mariners President & Chief Executive Officer. We thank Congresswoman Jayapal for sponsoring House Resolution 672 honoring Edgar Martinez for his excellence as a player, and for his substantial philanthropic efforts to make the Northwest a better community for all. \nTime and again, Edgar has shown up for his team and his community. Not only is he a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest, but also a celebrated son of Puerto Rico. Edgars character and service makes us all proud. It is my honor to join my colleagues today in recognizing his great career and contributions, said Rep. Nydia Velzquez.\nMartinez represents the best of the game of Baseball through his extraordinary character, community involvement, positive contributions, both on and off the field. This Puerto Rican baseball player exemplifies discipline and determination, and in addition to being a source of pride for all Puerto Ricans, examples our youth because of his performance, effort and tenacity. Edgar deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and hopefully the voters will acknowledge that this year, said Rep. Gonzlez-Coln.\nIn addition to Velzquez and Gonzlez-Coln, the bipartisan legislation is backed by Washington states entire Democratic House delegation.\nEdgar Martinez exemplifies the Pacific Northwest tradition of social responsibility and engagement in athletics. Martinez devoted countless hours and considerable funds to battle Muscular Dystrophy; he helped to create a more diverse pool of teachers in Washington state; and he selflessly contributed to the fundraising efforts for victims of Hurricane Sandy and other disasters. To me, Martinez is both an all-star on and off the field, said Rep. Smith.\nEdgar Martinez started his professional career in Bellingham. As Congress honors him for his abilities on the diamond and his citizenship, I am confident this is the year he cements his legacy with a trip to Cooperstown, said Rep. Rick Larsen.\nEdgar Martinez has been a leader not only in athletics but also in our community and hes well-deserving of recognition for all his hard work on and off the baseball field, Rep. DelBene said. So in honor of Edgar, its only fitting that Congress gets out the rye bread and mustard, its grand salami time.\nI was at Game 5 of the ALDS on October 8, 1995, when Edgar Martinez hit a double, sending Ken Griffey, Jr. to home plate. That moment, and other moments are embedded in every Mariner fans memory, and his Grand Slam career made watching baseball in the Pacific Northwest an absolute joy. One of the great injustices is that he has not been admitted to the Baseball Hall of Fame, but this resolution can serve to honor all that he has done both on and off the field for Washington state, said Rep. Denny Heck. \nEdgar Martinez is one of the best hitters to ever play the game. He helped revolutionize the game by defining the DH role. Hes helped make our community a great place on the field and off. Ill never forget The Double, which some have said saved baseball in Seattle, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Congratulations Gar. Last month, the Seattle Mariners retired the number 11 jersey of former player and current coach Edgar Martinez, who has been a model of the American dream and the American spirit of giving back to the community. Edgar Martinez was raised in Dorado, Puerto Rico and attended Jose S. Alegria High School in Dorado. After a very successful baseball career, he created both the Martinez Fellowship Program, which aims to help close the achievement gap by improving teacher diversity and the retention of teachers of color in Washington State, and the Edgar Martinez Endowment for Muscular Dystrophy Research. He has supported multiple other humanitarian efforts in Puerto Rico as well as in Washington, New York City and Mexico. Jayapals resolution is co-sponsored by 35 members of Congress including Reps. Karen Bass (CA-37), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL), Anthony Brown (MD-04), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Tony Crdenas (CA-29), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Michael Doyle (PA-14), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwi ght Evans (PA-02), Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (PR-AL), Raul Grijalva (AZ-03), Denny Heck (WA-10), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Dan Kildee (MI-05), Peter King (NY-02), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Grace Meng (NY-06), Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Linda Snchez (CA-38), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Nydia Velzquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), and Maxine Waters (CA-43).\nA copy of the resolution can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-congresss-decision-to-kick-the-can-on-long-term-spending-plan", "Kilmer Statement on Congress\u2019s Decision to Kick the Can on Long-term Spending Plan", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer Statement on Congresss Decision to Kick the Can on Long-term Spending Plan \n\t\t\tI am disappointed that rather than using these last few weeks to do their jobs and produce a long-term, bipartisan spending plan, the majority of Congress has decided to once again kick the can down the road. I remain committed to working with the members of both parties to pass a long-term, bipartisan spending plan.\r\nCongress has punted from September to early-December, then to mid-December and now to January. No household would run their family finances three weeks at a time. No business would either. These manufactured crises are certainly no way to run the government either. Thats why I supported measures like No Budget No Pay, which would mean Congress wouldnt be paid if the government is shutdown.\r\nIn January, Congress should get serious and pass a long-term, bipartisan deal. Thats overdue. Doing so would mean government agencies and the federal workforce has the assurances needed to make long-term plans, which saves taxpayer money, allows the military to maintain readiness, and prevents Americans from having the government services on which they rely held hostage by partisan politics. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2243", "DelBene: Its Past Time Congress End Government Uncertainty", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement after Congress passed yet another short-term continuing resolution to fund the federal government:\r\nToday, Congress passed another temporary funding bill, and once again kicked the can down the road, needlessly manufacturing another potential crisis early next year, DelBene said. As a former CEO, I know firsthand you cant efficiently run a business for just weeks or months at a time, and the same is true for the government. Its long past time for Republican leadership, who now control every branch of government, to put an end to this inefficient cycle and broken governance. Its ludicrous that we waste so much time punting on these funding bills and leave American families and businesses with uncertainty, rather than getting the job done and moving on to issues important to Americans long-term success, like housing, education, infrastructure, healthcare and innovative research.\r\nCongress needed to act by Dec. 22, after continuously kicking the can down the road instead of passing a budget and appropriations bills through regular order before the end of the fiscal year. The government is now funded through Jan. 19.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-bustos-commend-microsoft-eliminating-forced-arbitration-agreements-its", "Jayapal & Bustos Commend Microsoft for Eliminating Forced Arbitration Agreements with Its Employees", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal and Cheri Bustos commended Microsoft for announcing they would be eliminating forced arbitration agreements with employees who make sexual harassment claims.\nEarlier this month, Jayapal (D-WA) and Bustos (D-IL) were joined by Reps. Walter Jones (R-NC) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY), as well as Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), as they introduced the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Harassment Act of 2017 that would void forced arbitration agreements that prevent sexual harassment survivors from getting the justice they deserve.\nI am proud to see Microsoft proactively step up to the plate, show leadership on the issue of sexual harassment and eliminate mandatory arbitration agreements with their employees in cases of sexual harassment. I hope other companies who want to be leaders in creating safe workplaces for all employees will follow suit. Forced arbitration silences victims, limits opportunity, protects powerful men and breaks the leadership ladders that we work so hard to build. Sexual harassment has no regard to party or industryit affects all of us, everywhere, said Rep. Jayapal. Our legislation takes the first steps toward changing a deep-seated culture of sexism and silencing in the private sector. The bravery of the victims who have come forward cannot go unnoticed. For them, and for all people who experience harassment, we must act on this moment and end the forced arbitration process for good.\nSystemic sexual harassment can only exist in secrecy which is why I wrote legislation to stamp out this abusive behavior in the workplace, said Rep. Bustos. I want to commend Microsoft for leading by example and taking steps to ensure a safer workplace by exempting their workers from forced arbitration in sexual harassment cases. Our strategy to end sexual harassment in the workplace goes well beyond Washington D.C. and I want to thank Congresswoman Jayapal for helping lead this effort. I'm proud of the growing coalition of bipartisan legislators and business leaders who are standing up and saying no more to sexual harassment in the workplace.\nToday, an estimated 60 million Americans are subject to forced arbitration clauses. The bipartisan, bicameral bill that Jayapal, Bustos, Jones, Stefanik, Gillibrand and Graham announced would void forced arbitration agreements, and allow survivors of sexual harassment or discrimination to seek justice and discuss their cases publicly.\nForced arbitration clauses prevent survivors of sexual harassment from discussing the nature or basis of their complaint. If an employees contract or employee handbook includes a forced arbitration clause, the employee is likely to have signed away his or her right to take the case to court whether or not they are aware of the clause. Employees are far more likely to win cases that go to trial than cases that go through this arbitration process.\nA copy of the bill text can be found here.\nYou can watch the press conference where the bill was introduced and get additional background here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-passage-gop-continuing-resolution", "Jayapal Statement on Passage of the GOP Continuing Resolution", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to House passage of the continuing resolution that funds the government through January 19:\nIts shameful to see House Republicans skip town to enjoy the holidays after voting for the continued suffering of millions of young people and children. They have the majority, their votes overrule ours, and their choice today was cruel and immoral.\nHouse Republicans spent all their time focused on passing a tax scam that gives cuts to the wealthiest and no time working to pass a budget that addresses the priority programs on which middle class families rely. The GOP has shown they side with the biggest corporations and the wealthiest instead of the 9 million kids who need CHIP authorized, the 1.5 million Dreamers who need a Dream Act now, or the millions of people who will lose health insurance because of Republican-forced destabilization of the health care market.\nWe need to fully re-authorize CHIP funding and pass the bipartisan Dream Act  this bill does not do that. Republicans are kicking the can down the road for another month with this continuing resolution without addressing any of the real priorities. I voted no to this irresponsible governing.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-statement-short-term-continuing-resolution", "Larsen Statement on Short-Term Continuing Resolution", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today released the following statement after voting against the short-term 2018 Continuing Resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives:\nThere is a Scrooge every holiday season and this year  its Congressional Republicans. The best holiday gift Congress could give hardworking families is knowing their children will still have health insurance. However, Congressional Republicans chose to prioritize a greedy tax bill that favors corporations and the wealthiest Americans instead of the Children Healths Insurance Program (CHIP).\nIt is inexcusable that Congress continues to delay reauthorizing of CHIP, which over 5,700 children in Washington states Second Congressional District depend on for comprehensive, high-quality health care. For years, the states Apple Health for Kids program has provided hardworking families in the Pacific Northwest with access to affordable health coverage to ensure that children can learn, grow and thrive.\nWashingtonians deserve a better deal. Congress needs to get serious and start working to reach a budget compromise that both sides can agree on, not continue to fund the government two weeks at a time while vital safety-net programs lay in wait for crucial resources.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-calls-for-oversight-hearing-on-amtrak-rail-safety-in-aftermath-of-recent-derailment-tragedy", "Cantwell Calls for Oversight Hearing on Amtrak, Rail Safety in Aftermath of Recent Derailment Tragedy", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Calls for Oversight Hearing on Amtrak, Rail Safety in Aftermath of Recent Derailment Tragedy \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called on Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD) and Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-FL) to hold an oversight hearing to examine a range of Amtrak safety concerns tragically brought to light earlier this week with the derailment of an Amtrak commuter train in DuPont, Washington.\r\nIn her letter, Cantwell, a senior member of the Commerce Committee, wrote that Amtraks safety practices and training procedures, as well as Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) safety regulations, must be scrutinized immediately to protect the travelling public. In all, 91 people have lost their lives and 2,842 have been injured in derailments, collisions, and similar incidents since 2008, according to the FRA.\r\nA copy of the letter can be found below and here.\r\nThe Honorable John Thune  Chair  U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation  512 Dirksen Senate Building  Washington, DC 20510\r\nThe Honorable Bill Nelson  Ranking Member  U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation  425 Hart Senate Office Building  Washington, DC 20510\r\nDear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson,\r\nI am writing to request that the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation hold an oversight hearing on current Amtrak safety standards and training procedures, and the state of federal rail safety regulation as soon as possible when Congress returns in the new year. Following the recent derailment incident in DuPont, Washington, which claimed 3 lives and injured more than 70 people, the traveling public needs to know that Amtrak and its regulator, the Federal Railroad Administration, are doing all they can to protect the safety of passengers who use this vital piece of our transportation infrastructure.\r\nIn the last decade alone, train accidents in the United States have taken the lives of dozens of passengers. In 2008, a commuter train sped through a red signal and crashed headlong into a freight train in Chatsworth, California. In New York, a Metro North commuter train derailed in the Bronx in 2013, while another crashed along the Harlem line in February of 2015. Later in 2015, an Amtrak Northeast Regional train derailed in Philadelphia. These events took the lives of 46 people and injured more than 450. Heartbreaking events like these serve as all too frequent reminders that train safety must be a priority issue for our Committee.\r\nPassenger and freight railways remain a critical part of the nations transportation network. Millions of Americans depend on rail service each day, and businesses in every corner of our country depend on freight rail to keep commerce running. Therefore, the alarming rate of incidents on our rails is cause for tremendous concern. We should be doing everything in our power to address train safety issues as quickly as possible in order to prevent similar accidents in the future.\r\nThank you for your consideration of this request.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sens-cantwell-murray-wyden-merkley-demand-dot-hold-railroads-accountable-for-ptc-implementation-after-fatal-derailments-safety-shortfalls", "Sens. Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n    \t\t\t Sens. Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined a group of fifteen total senators calling on Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to hold railroads accountable for failing to implement sufficient safety measures.\r\nThe Senators demanded a status report on railroads implementation of positive train control (PTC), a lifesaving technology required by Congressional mandate to be fully implemented by 2018. The Senators letter comes four days after the tragic Amtrak train derailment near DuPont, Washington, which resulted in three fatalities and injured many dozens more. This accident is the latest in a troubling trend of fatal train derailments and collisions.\r\nSince NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred, wrote the Senators. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away  December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt.\r\nSenators Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, and Merkley were joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the letter to Chao.\r\nThe full text of the Senators letter to Chao is available for download here, and copied below.\r\nDear Secretary Chao:\r\nOn Monday, an Amtrak train derailed onto a busy interstate highway in DuPont, Washington. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to improve rail safety, including the nationwide implementation of positive train control (PTC) technology, as mandated by Congress. We write requesting an update on the status of railroads compliance with the pending deadline for implementation and your efforts to carry out other rail safety measures.\r\nThe NTSB has been urging the adoption of PTC technology since 1970, soon after a collision in Darien, Connecticut killed four people. Following the 2008 Chatsworth, California crash that killed 25 people, Congress mandated that railroads implement the technology, which prevents trains from colliding and speeding. For years, however, the implementation of the technology has been delayed. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred.\r\nThe PTC deadline is now almost one year away  December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Please provide information on the following questions:\r\n1. Based on the reports and information provided to you by railroads, and your knowledge of efforts necessary to complete PTC implementation, what railroads do you anticipate will have fully implemented PTC by the end of 2018?  2. What railroads do you anticipate will fail to implement PTC by 2018?  3. What is your plan to impose fines and penalties for railroads that fail to comply with the law?  4. Can you confirm that you will be vigorous in enforcing the deadline, imposing strong fines and penalties, where necessary, on railroads that fail to meet the deadline?  5. How are you communicating your enforcement plans to the industry?  6. What steps are you taking to implement other provisions of law and safety requirements, such as requirements from the 2015 surface transportation bill, known as the FAST Act, that passenger and commuter railroads complete a speed-limit action plan (section 11406) to prevent over-speed accidents into curves and commuter railroads improve inspection practices (section 11409)?   7. What level of funding will be included in the Presidents yet-to-be-released infrastructure proposal to expedite PTC implementation and advance other rail safety efforts?  8. What steps is DOT taking to approve and expedite the use of federal funds and grants by recipients for the implementation of PTC?\r\nWe appreciate your attention to this matter and urgent efforts to ensure railroads implement lifesaving PTC technology.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1AA619D9-EFA2-41EA-AD23-CD01E476E4BF", "Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Wyden, Merkley Demand DOT Hold Railroads Accountable for PTC Implementation after Fatal Derailments, Safety Shortfalls", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined a group of fifteen total senators calling on Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao to hold railroads accountable for failing to implement sufficient safety measures.\r\nThe Senators demanded a status report on railroads implementation of positive train control (PTC), a lifesaving technology required by Congressional mandate to be fully implemented by 2018. The Senators letter comes four days after the tragic Amtrak train derailment near DuPont, Washington, which resulted in three fatalities and injured many dozens more. This accident is the latest in a troubling trend of fatal train derailments and collisions.\r\nSince NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred, wrote the Senators. The PTC deadline is now almost one year away  December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt.\r\nSenators Cantwell, Murray, Wyden, and Merkley were joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the letter to Chao.\r\nThe full text of the Senators letter to Chao is available for download here, and copied below.\r\nDear Secretary Chao:\r\nOn Monday, an Amtrak train derailed onto a busy interstate highway in DuPont, Washington. This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to improve rail safety, including the nationwide implementation of positive train control (PTC) technology, as mandated by Congress. We write requesting an update on the status of railroads compliance with the pending deadline for implementation and your efforts to carry out other rail safety measures.\r\nThe NTSB has been urging the adoption of PTC technology since 1970, soon after a collision in Darien, Connecticut killed four people. Following the 2008 Chatsworth, California crash that killed 25 people, Congress mandated that railroads implement the technology, which prevents trains from colliding and speeding. For years, however, the implementation of the technology has been delayed. Since NTSB first recommended PTC, more than 300 people have died, thousands have been injured, and millions of dollars in property damages have been incurred.\r\nThe PTC deadline is now almost one year away  December 31, 2018. It is imperative that railroads complete implementation before the deadline. They must clearly understand that the consequences of failure will be stringent and prompt. Please provide information on the following questions:\r\n1. Based on the reports and information provided to you by railroads, and your knowledge of efforts necessary to complete PTC implementation, what railroads do you anticipate will have fully implemented PTC by the end of 2018?\r\n2. What railroads do you anticipate will fail to implement PTC by 2018?\r\n3. What is your plan to impose fines and penalties for railroads that fail to comply with the law?\r\n4. Can you confirm that you will be vigorous in enforcing the deadline, imposing strong fines and penalties, where necessary, on railroads that fail to meet the deadline?\r\n5. How are you communicating your enforcement plans to the industry?\r\n6. What steps are you taking to implement other provisions of law and safety requirements, such as requirements from the 2015 surface transportation bill, known as the FAST Act, that passenger and commuter railroads complete a speed-limit action plan (section 11406) to prevent over-speed accidents into curves and commuter railroads improve inspection practices (section 11409)?\r\n7. What level of funding will be included in the Presidents yet-to-be-released infrastructure proposal to expedite PTC implementation and advance other rail safety efforts?\r\n8. What steps is DOT taking to approve and expedite the use of federal funds and grants by recipients for the implementation of PTC?\r\nWe appreciate your attention to this matter and urgent efforts to ensure railroads implement lifesaving PTC technology.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=50A01077-D0A2-4DAC-ACC6-E4D6EC6FA68B", "Senator Murray Votes No on Short-Term Spending Bill: Families Deserve Better", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "After spending most of year either trying to take families health care away, or jamming through tax cuts for the wealthy, Republicans punt spending bill into 2018 without addressing critical issues\r\nSenator Murray calls on Republicans to pass DREAM Act, permanently fund CHIP, community health center and special diabetes programs without any further delay in the new year\r\n(Washington, D.C.)  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after voting no on a short-term continuing resolution to punt a spending deal into mid-January.\r\nI voted no because I want to be crystal clear: families deserve better. The Republican-led Congress used the vast majority of the year trying to take away health care from millions of Americans and jamming through tax cuts for the rich, while leaving middle class priorities on the backburner. Now, Republicans are leaving people nationwide uncertain about everything from whether they can stay in the only country theyve ever known as home, to whether their children will have health care in a few months. This is no way to govern.\r\nRight now, nearly 800,000 young men and womens futures are in limboand they have already waited for far too long for Republican leadership to let us vote on a legislative fix for the DACA program and clean up this Trump-inflicted mess.\r\nParents across the country are reading headlines about their childrens health care being cut off, and theyre desperately asking this Republican-controlled Congress to do the right thing. So are people who rely on community health centers and other sources of affordable primary care where funding is drying up because of inaction here in Washington, D.C. And I am deeply concerned about the impact severe, misguided cuts to public health and prevention included in this stopgap bill will have as we work to tackle crises like the opioid epidemic.\r\nThis is no way to run the government and no way to treat people who are looking to Congress for solutions, not dysfunction and uncertainty, and I plan on doing everything I can to make sure this Republican-controlled Congress does its job for our young people and families without any further delay.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=6213B739-3505-483A-956D-BD7627A90D70", "VIDEO: Senator Murray Blasts Republicans for Putting Special Interests, Corporations Ahead of Middle Class Families in 2017", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Working against popular opinion, Republicans ended the year without renewing critical funding for CHIP & CHC/THCs, permanent solution for DACA recipients\r\nwere headed into 2018 ready to fight back harder than ever against the backward policies and even more backwards priorities this Republican-controlled Congress is forcing on families and communities\r\n***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAYS REMARKS HERE***\r\n(Washington, D.C.)  Joined by fellow Senate Democratic leaders at an end-of-year news conference, today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) criticized Senate Republicans for their lack of action before the end of the year on several legislative priorities that would provide critical support to middle class families in Washington state and nationwide, and highlighted a number of ways Republicans have hurt women, workers, retirees, and students by rolling back rules intended to put them firstchoosing instead to prioritize massive corporations and special interests.\r\nRepublicans have wasted months failing to pass their disastrous Trumpcare bill and rushing to jam through their unpopular tax plan instead of taking up several policies aimed at helping working families, like renewing funding for community health center and special diabetes programs and the Childrens Health Insurance Program, or finding a permanent legislative fix for the Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals program, known as DACA. Additionally, Republicans undertook several actions over the last year that weaken protections for middle class families, including eliminating rules for worker safety, undermining womens access to reproductive health care, taking away retirement savings options, and undermining guardrails intended to ensure all children receive a quality education, no matter who they are or how much money their parents make.\r\nIn her remarks, Senator Murray blasted Republicans for wasting the past year championing legislation that primarily benefits the wealthiest corporations and richest Americans, and refusing to work across the aisle to advance policies that would aid middle class families, saying this year, more than ever, Republicans have made clear exactly what it is they want to do: take from the very people President Trump said he would help and give to the wealthy and special interests. \r\nthe massive burden theyve put on the middle class is wrongfor families and for our country as a whole, Senator Murray added. This isnt the direction we should be headed in.\r\nWatch video of Senator Murrays remarks HERE.\r\nFull text of Senator Murrays remarks, as prepared for delivery:\r\nThank you, Senator Durbin. I have to sayat the beginning of this yearI held out some hope that President Trump was serious about what hed said over and over again the campaign trail, that he was going to put workers firstand fight for the middle class, and I hoped that maybejust maybeRepublicans in Congress would take those promises seriously tooand work with Democrats to make them a reality.\r\nBut instead, as Senators Schumer and Durbin saidthis year, more than ever, Republicans have made clear exactly what it is they want to do: take from the very people President Trump said he would help and give to the wealthy and special interests. Now, thanks to the work of people across the country who stood up and fought back, Republicans havent always succeeded.\r\nBut one way theyve jammed their damaging agenda through is by rolling back rule after rule designed to protect workers, retirees, students, and women. Instead of helping workers left behind in todays economy, Republicans made it easier for corporations to hide workplace dangers from workersputting their lives at risk. And they rolled back a rule simply designed to help make sure that everyonemen and womengets paid fairly on the job. Instead of dealing with the retirement crisis keeping workers up at nightRepublicans took away options to help them save for their retirement.\r\nRather than simply leaving key protections in place designed to help all students get a high-quality public education, which really should not be controversial, Republicans acted to undermine those guardrails. And even though millions of men and women get affordable, quality care at Title X family planning clinics each, care that they otherwise might not be able to afford, Republicans bowed to extreme right-wing ideology and made it possible for states to discriminate against these providers when making funding decisions, a choice which could leave people who are most in need of care going without.\r\nThis is a long, long list of damage done to the middle classto Democrats and Republicans and people from all across the countryand unfortunately I could keep going. With so many middle class workers and families are being hurt by these policies, its worth askingwho is getting help? Just like the in the Republican tax billthe answer is special interests, and those already at the top, massive corporations who care more about boosting profits than treating their workers fairly. And special interests who drown out women who cant access health care they need, and children who all deserve a quality public education. So this isnt a mystery. Its very clear who Republicans are putting first and who frankly isnt on their list at all.\r\nBut the massive burden theyve put on the middle class is wrongfor families and for our country as a whole. This isnt the direction we should be headed in. Democrats know it. You better believe people across the country know it. And were headed into 2018 ready to fight back harder than ever against the backward policies and even more backwards priorities this Republican-controlled Congress is forcing on families and communities.\r\nThank you and Ill turn it over to Senator Stabenow.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D2132A42-53A8-4FA5-88FD-83C3F344603C", "Senator Murray on DREAM Act: We will get this done. We have to get this done.", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In speech on Senate floor, Senator Murray implores Republican colleagues to follow through on promise to fix DACA, uphold commitment to find permanent solution for DACA recipients & Dreamers\r\nSenator Murray: Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible\r\nIn earlier year-end news conference with Senate Democratic leaders, Senator Murray also blasts Republicans for leaving unfinished business on critical issues like DREAM Act, CHIP and CHCs that will impact hundreds of thousands in Washington state, nationwide  LINK\r\nICYMI: Sens. Murray, Cantwell, Democratic Women Senators to McConnell: Pass the DREAM Act Before Senate Recesses in December\r\nSpokesman-Review Editorial: Foot-dragging on DACA is cruel\r\n***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAYS FLOOR SPEECH HERE***\r\n(Washington, D.C.)  Today U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) strongly urged her Republican colleagues to finally pass the DREAM Act and uphold Congress promise to find a permanent solution for hundreds of thousands of young people enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA. President Trump and Attorney General Sessions rescinded the program last September, impacting an estimated 800,000 young men and women, including nearly 17,000 in Washington state. In her speech, Senator Murray shared stories from young Washingtonians enrolled in DACA, underscoring the fear and confusion President Trumps reckless decision has posed on their lives, families, and futures, and stressed the urgent need to pass the DREAM Act to alleviate their uncertainty. Senator Murray also highlighted the moral and economic costs of not honoring the commitment made to young people who signed up for DACA, and underlined the immeasurable value recipients of DACA contribute to their communities in Washington state and nationwide.\r\nExcerpts from Senator Murrays floor speech:\r\nFrom health care to tax reform, theres no doubt that some days it feels impossible to get the majority of Republicans on-board with policies that truly help the families we represent. But there is one thing that unites not only a large, bipartisan contingent in Congress, but also the vast majority of the American people. And that is finding a path forward for the estimated 800,000 young men and women whose lives are right now in limbo. Eight hundred thousand peopleincluding nearly 17,000 men and women, boys and girls, from my home state of Washington who shared their information, paid a large fee, and upheld their end of the bargain, only to have President Trump rip the rug out from under them three months ago when he and Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the end of the DACA program.\r\nThis Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible. And thats why we need more members of Congresson both sides of the aisleready to roll up their sleeves and get this done. Because every single day Republican leaders refuse to bring the DREAM Act to the floor to a vote, another 122 young people lose their DACA status, lose their ability to work legally, and lose their protection from deportation. That means 122 of our neighbors, students, coworkers and friends could be forced from the only country they know, despite the promise the federal government made to them when they signed up for DACA, and despite their immeasurable contributions to our schools and hospitals, our universities and stores, our farms and churches, our offices and so much more.\r\n\r\nStop letting so many promising young men and women fall off the rolls of this program each and every day. Stop kicking this can down the road, and come together to do whats right for these young people. Ending the DACA program is not what our country is all about. It doesnt do anything to fix our broken immigration system, prepare for the future or grow our economy. Ending DACA wont heal the divisions weve seen in our communities, or make them any easier to fix. And ending the DACA program certainly doesnt reflect a country of opportunity or promisesomething the U.S. has always aspired to be.\r\nI urge my colleagues here in the Senate and over in the House: think about the communities you represent. Think about the young men and women who are currently studying for finals, caring for our sick, teaching our children, responding to natural disasters and opening businesses in the communities that you travel to and live in. Think about the young men and women who hope to serve in the military and defend your freedoms someday. Think of the Dreamers who have grown up in our countryand whose children are the future of our nation. Think about how much good we could do for these young men and women if my Republican friends brought the same commitment and zeal to this task as they did to their tax bill, and finally worked with Democrats to find a real solution to end this unnecessary uncertainty.\r\nI want to thank Paulas well the other advocates from Washington state who I met this morning in my officeand the many thousands of others who are showing up in every way that they can to make their voice heard and call on Congress to act. Dr. Martin Luther King once said that justice too long delayed is justice denied. And Dreamers arent asking for anything other than what weve promised to them. This is an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for so many. But Dreamers need to know, many of us in Congressand so many others across the countryhave your back. We will get this done. We have to get this done.\r\nWatch video of Senator Murrays floor speech HERE.\r\nFull text of Senator Murrays floor speech below:\r\n\r\nM. President, over the years there have been a lot of tough debates on this floor.\r\n\r\nFrom health care to tax reform, theres no doubt that some days it feels impossible to get the majority of Republicans on-board with policies that truly help the families we represent.\r\n\r\nBut there is one thing that unites not only a large, bipartisan contingent in Congress, but also the vast majority of the American people\r\n\r\n and that is finding a path forward for the estimated 800,000 young men and women whose lives are right now in limbo.\r\n\r\nEight hundred thousand peopleincluding nearly 17,000 men and women, boys and girls, from my home state of Washington who shared their information, paid a large fee, and upheld their end of the bargain\r\n\r\nonly to have President Trump rip the rug out from under them three months ago when he and Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the end of the DACA program.\r\nM. President, this Congress may not be able to change the Trump Administrations hateful rhetoric or short-sighted policies overnight, but we can and should pass the DREAM Act as soon as possible\r\nand thats why we need more members of Congresson both sides of the aisleready to roll up their sleeves and get this done.\r\n\r\nBecause every single day Republican leaders refuse to bring the DREAM Act to the floor to a vote, another 122 young people lose their DACA status, lose their ability to work legally, and lose their protection from deportation.\r\n\r\nThat means 122 of our neighbors, students, coworkers and friends could be forced from the only country they know, despite the promise the federal government made to them when they signed up for DACA\r\nand despite their immeasurable contributions to our schools and hospitals, our universities and stores, our farms and churches, our offices and so much more.\r\n\r\nThat means small and large businesses are forced to lay-off DACA recipients each dayvital employees that businesses have invested money to train and support, employees that help our economy and the small business in my home state grow.\r\n\r\nMy friends on the other side of the aisle are constantly claiming they want to help small businesses grow.\r\nI listened to weeks of their speeches on this as they tried to justify their tax bill, but instead of a giveaway to the wealthiest one-percent, one way my friends across the aisle could actually help small businesses is to bring the DREAM Act up for a vote.\r\n\r\nNow, this morning I had the great honor of sitting down with Dreamers who traveled to our nations capital to fight for action.\r\n\r\nYoung people who had no control over how they came to this country, but have made conscious choices to improve their own lives and make life better for their communities.\r\n\r\nThey are passionatethey are frustratedand their stories need to be heard.\r\n\r\nHeres just one of them.\r\n\r\nPaul was brought to the U.S. at age seven to be reunited with his father.\r\n\r\nPaul excelled in school in Pasco, Washington  not far from where my own father grew up.\r\n\r\nPaul and his parents worried that despite Pauls success in K-12, going to college and starting a career might be impossible, but DACA provided some stability.\r\n\r\nPaul went to Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, as a double major in political science and economics and now works in the state legislature.\r\n\r\nNow, with DACA in question, its not just Paul who isnt sure what comes next but also his younger brother, Jose.\r\n\r\nJosewho was two years old when he came to the U.S.grew up seeing what Paul was able to achieve his dreams.\r\nHe saw that DACA allowed Paul to live without constant fear.\r\n\r\nJose was ready to follow Pauls footsteps and enroll in the DACA program, so he could pursue his dream of an engineering degree at the University of Washington.\r\n\r\nNow if Congress doesnt act, we could have one less engineer in this country.\r\n\r\nM. President, Paul and Jose are great examples of Dreamers who work hard and aim high, and participate in their community and our economymaking our country a better place.\r\n\r\nThis country should be rolling out the welcome mat to our Dreamers, not slamming the door shut on them.\r\n\r\nAnd thats why I am here, to echo their fear and frustration on the floor of the United States Senate\r\n\r\nand to call on Republican leaders to work with us.\r\n\r\nStop letting so many promising young men and women fall off the rolls of this program each and every day.\r\n\r\nStop kicking this can down the road, and come together to do whats right for these young people.\r\n\r\nEnding the DACA program is not what our country is all about.\r\n\r\nIt doesnt do anything to fix our broken immigration system, prepare for the future or grow our economy.\r\nEnding DACA wont heal the divisions weve seen in our communities, or make them any easier to fix.\r\n\r\nAnd ending the DACA program certainly doesnt reflect a country of opportunity or promisesomething the U.S. has always aspired to be.\r\n\r\nI urge my colleagues here in the Senate and over in the House: think about the communities you represent.\r\n\r\nThink about the young men and women who are currently studying for finals, caring for our sick, teaching our children, responding to natural disasters and opening businesses in the communities that you travel to and live in.\r\n\r\nThink about the young men and women who hope to serve in the military and defend your freedoms someday.\r\n\r\nThink of the Dreamers who have grown up in our countryand whose children are the future of our nation.\r\n\r\nThink about how much good we could do for these young men and women if my Republican friends brought the same commitment and zeal to this task as they did to their tax bill, and finally worked with Democrats to find a real solution to end this unnecessary uncertainty.\r\n\r\nM. President, I want to thank Paulas well the other advocates from Washington state who I met this morning in my officeand the many thousands of others who are showing up in every way that they can to make their voice heard and call on Congress to act.\r\n\r\nDr. Martin Luther King once said that justice too long delayed is justice denied.\r\n\r\nand Dreamers arent asking for anything other than what weve promised to them.\r\n\r\nThis is an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for so many.\r\n\r\nBut Dreamers need to know, many of us in Congressand so many others across the countryhave your back.\r\n\r\nWe will get this done.\r\nWe have to get this done.\r\n\r\nThank you, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-applauds-passage-750-million-grants-programs-assist-firefighters-and-emergency", "Larsen Applauds Passage of $750 Million Grants Programs to Assist Firefighters and Emergency First Responders", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Larsen Applauds Passage of $750 Million Grants Programs to Assist Firefighters and Emergency First Responders                                           \n              Dec 20, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    WASHINGTON, D.C.  Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the United States Fire Administration, AFG, and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act of 2017 (H.R. 4661). The bill authorizes $750 million for both the Assistance to Firefights Grant (AFG) awards and Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. These grant programs help provide training and equipment to firefighters and emergency first responders. In the past two years, nine local fire departments in Washingtons Second Congressional District have received funding under these programs.\nSAFER and AFG provide firefighters and emergency responders the tools needed to save lives in our community, said Larsen. I will continue to work for local first responders by supporting these programs and I thank all first responders and fire fighters for putting your own lives on the line every day for others.\nThe bill passed the House of Representatives by voice vote yesterday. Larsen signed a letter of support for the AFG and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act earlier this month.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce-critical-investments-in-puget-sound-recovery", "Senators Cantwell, Murray and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.17\n    \t\t\t Senators Cantwell, Murray and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts.\r\nPuget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts.\r\nInvestments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy.\r\nAll of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary.\r\nOne of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include:\r\n \r\nThe restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat;\r\nThe re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and\r\nImprovement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams.\r\n \r\nAccording to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=16762098-09D9-4203-9FEF-58280FA82BDF", "Senator Murrays Statement on Passage of GOP Tax Cuts for the Rich: Its hard to overstate the cruelty of the Trump-Republican bill", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), one of seven Senate Democrats named to the conference committee, released the following statement after Republicans jammed through tax cuts that benefit the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations on a party-line vote.\r\nFrom the very start, President Trump and Republicans shut out Democrats, nonpartisan experts, and the vast majority of Americans because they knew this legislation would never survive the light of day. The result of their closed-door negotiations is a terribly partisan bill that funnels even more money to those at the very top, at the expense of hardworking families and future generations.\r\nFrom the millions of Americans who will lose health coverage or see their premiums go up, to the middle class families who will see their tax bill increase in the coming years, to the pristine region of Alaska that will open to drilling, its hard to overstate the cruelty of the Trump-Republican bill. Its also hard to overstate the hypocrisy of so-called fiscal conservatives who apparently didnt think twice about blowing a massive hole in our deficit and endangering Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid--- all so they could dole out more tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy and the Trump family.\r\nWhile I am deeply disappointed President Trump and Republicans succeeded in jamming their destructive bill through without real hearings, true openness to amendments, bipartisan inputor allowing the Senator-elect from Alabama to cast a vote-- I am extremely proud of the millions of people from every corner of this country who made their voices heard and who did everything they could to highlight the gross inequities of the GOP tax bill. I want the American people to know this fight is not over. I urge everyone to join me in continuing to hold Republicans accountable for their votesand to work with Democrats to reverse the pieces of this legislation that so heavily tip the scales to the wealthiest in the country.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=9AF80BA5-7889-4776-B43D-86BBD00A85DE", "Senator Murray Statement on Republican Plans to Postpone Action on Alexander-Murray Health Bill Through End of Year", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, issued the following statement on Republican plans to postpone action on the bipartisan Alexander-Murray bill through the end of the year.\r\nRepublicans have just severely sabotaged families health care to give tax cuts to massive corporations and the wealthiest, and they are fully responsible for the premium increases and coverage loss that will come as a result.\r\nAs I have made clear, the bipartisan bill I originally agreed on with Chairman Alexander will not make up for this latest round of Republican health care sabotage. In fact, there are changes that now need to be made to ensure it meets its intended goals of keeping premiums down and stabilizing markets.\r\nRepublicans cannot undo the damage theyve caused to the health care system or to patients and families who will be paying more or losing coverage, but they can avoid doing further harmand I am hoping they are truly serious about working with us to get this done.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-votes-against-tax-bill-that-raises-middle-class-taxes-adds-trillions-to-debt", "Kilmer Votes Against Tax Bill That Raises Middle Class Taxes, Adds Trillions to Debt", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer Votes Against Tax Bill That Raises Middle Class Taxes, Adds Trillions to Debt \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) voted against the Republican tax plan. According to nonpartisan analyses, the final version of the bill would raise taxes on 86 million middle-class families and add more than $1.5 trillion to the debt. Of the tax cuts in the plan, 83 percent would go to the wealthiest 1 percent of the country.\r\nTodays vote is an enormous missed opportunity. Done right, tax reform could help grow our economy, give small businesses a boost, and make it easier for middle class families to get ahead, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. Instead, this bill raises taxes on 86 million middle-class families while giving 83 percent of the tax cuts to the wealthiest one percent and adding more than $1.5 trillion to the debt that our kids will have to pay off.\r\nFrom the start of the process, Kilmer offered to work with Republicans on a bipartisan plan. Earlier this year, he and members of the New Democrat Coalition met with Rep. Kevin Brady, the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, which drafts tax policy, and offered to work on bipartisan tax reform. The group offered an alternative tax plan that would have drawn bipartisan support. Kilmer outlined the plan in an op-ed in The News Tribune earlier this week.\r\nThe final version of the bill, which would alter the nations economy for decades, was issued just four days before a vote. Critics of the bill raised concerns that special interests added last minute loopholes including a Real Estate Tax Break designed specifically to give massive tax breaks to wealthy real estate owners. Another loophole could actually end up sending more jobs overseas.\r\nNonpartisan analyses demonstrate that the bill would add more than $1.5 Trillion to the national debt over the next decade. That would trigger automatic cuts to things that help everyday Americans from seniors to farmers. For example, next year alone Medicare, the health insurance program for elderly, would be cut by $25 Billion. According to Politico, nearly every federal program that helps farmers, would see funding evaporate.\r\nAccording to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office the tax bill would cause sweeping changes to healthcare, which would lead to a 10 percent increase in health care premiums and cause 13 million fewer Americans to purchase insurance.\r\nIn addition, critics have raised concerns that the bill penalizes working people because it applies a higher tax rate to employee wages and salaries than to income earned by proprietors who do the exact same job. In a recent interview with The New York Times about this issue, Adam Looney, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former Treasury Department official said Weve never had a tax system where wage earners are substantially penalized in this way.\r\nThe bill also failed to address an issue that directly affects Washingtons tribal communities. Under the current tax code, tribal governments are not given equal access to the same tax incentives that states and local governments can use to spur economic growth. Rep. Kilmer and a group of 37 other lawmakers raised this issue earlier this month and called on the committee to include a provision to give parity to tribal governments in the final package.\r\nDespite Rep. Kilmers opposition and the disapproval of the majority of Americans, the bill passed. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2241", "DelBene Opposes Massive Tax Giveaway to Corporate Special Interests at the Expense of Middle-Class Families", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01), who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, opposed the Ryan-McConnell tax bill today on the House floor because it will increase taxes on millions of middle-class families. House Republicans still passed the bill without a single Democrat supporting the measure  it now heads to the Senate for further action.\r\nIn this Ryan-McConnell tax bill, Republicans have gifted the wealthiest corporations and individuals with massive new tax cuts and loopholes to take advantage of, DelBene said. Not a mother working two jobs to put food on the table, not a farmer struggling through a bad year, not a senior trying to pay for a prescription, have ever told me that tax reform means corporate cuts on the backs of them and their families. Republicans always promise that the benefits will trickle down to working people, but they never do and they never will. And whats worse, theyve made it clear cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are next.\r\nInstead of bringing Democrats and the public into the process, Republicans worked behind closed doors to take care of their corporate special interest allies, the wealthy and the well-connected, while putting middle-class Americans finances and healthcare on the chopping block.\r\nVideo of her speaking on the House floor before the vote can be found HERE.\r\nThe Republican bill would add at least $1.5 trillion to the deficit, paid for on the backs of workers, seniors and future generations. It would also result in 13 million Americans losing their healthcare coverage and will allow oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.\r\nDuring committee markup, DelBene offered amendments to protect middle-class families from tax hikes that would make housing and healthcare among other things more costly, but Republicans blocked them all. Her questioning on the unfairness of corporations being able to continue to use deductions eliminated for individuals under the plan went viral.\r\nThe House Ways and Means Committee passed the Republican tax bill out of committee along party lines after just four days of markup and less than a week of having the bill text available to committee members and the public. The last time Congress passed a major tax overhaul in 1986, the committee underwent a year-long review of tax reform proposals, with 30 days of public hearings and a 26 day markup of legislative text.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2242", "DelBene Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging $2 Billion Boost for NIH", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) led 129 House members in urging the House Appropriations Committee to fund the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at no less than $36 billion in any forthcoming appropriations legislation. The bipartisan letter was co-led by Reps. David McKinley (WV-01) and Peter King (NY-02).\r\nFunding helps push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, advance promising research and offer hope to millions of Americans suffering from heartbreaking diseases, the members wrote. If we are serious about breaking new ground in our understanding of complex and life-threatening conditions, then it is absolutely essential we increase funding for NIH. Simply put, we cannot hope to accelerate the development of new cures, therapies and vaccines without additional resources for research.\r\nBoth the House and Senate Appropriations Committees have approved funding increases for NIH in fiscal year 2018. The House bill (H.R.3358) allocates $35.1 billion for NIH, while the Senate bill (S.1771) provides $36 billion for the agency  a $2 billion increase above FY 2017 levels. Neither bill has received a vote on the House floor.\r\nFederal funding for NIH supports more than 400,000 American jobs and generates more than $60 billion in new economic activity. Unfortunately, the federal governments contributions toward basic research at NIH have consistently failed to keep pace with inflation, allowing the agencys purchasing power to diminish by nearly 20 percent since 2003.\r\nThe letter is signed by 130 Republican and Democratic members of the House. Full text of the letter follows:\r\nDear Chairman Frelinghuysen and Ranking Member Lowey:\r\nAs the House works to craft an end of year spending bill for fiscal year 2018, we write to express our strong support for increasing funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In any forthcoming appropriations legislation for FY 2018, we urge you to work with your Senate colleagues to ensure NIH receives a funding level of no less than $36 billion, equal to the level approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee. The amount reflects the rising costs of medical research and would maintain Americas role as a global leader in biomedical research and groundbreaking medical discoveries.\r\nA bipartisan majority of the 115th Congress has already demonstrated its clear support for continuing investments in NIH. This funding helps push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, advance promising research and offer hope to millions of Americans suffering from heartbreaking diseases. Federal funding for this life-saving research is also a key economic driver for our nation, supporting more than 400,000 jobs and generating over $60 billion in new economic activity. It delivers a significant return on our investment today and for generations to come.\r\nCongress has increased NIH funding by $2 billion in each of the last two years and now is not the time to slow down. If we are serious about breaking new ground in our understanding of complex and life-threatening conditions, then it is absolutely essential we increase funding for NIH. Simply put, we cannot hope to accelerate the development of new cures, therapies and vaccines without additional resources for research. Particularly given the significant investments in NIH approved earlier this year by the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, we feel strongly that now is the time to recommit to Americas long-term health and prosperity.\r\nWhile we understand the difficult fiscal challenges you face, we hope you will again see the difference between an investment and a cost. NIH is without question an investment in not just medical innovation and economic growth but our nations future. We urge you to prioritize the important role NIH plays by funding the agency at a funding level of no less than $36 billion for FY 2018. Thank you for your consideration of this request, which will make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of Americans.\r\nSincerely,\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-passage-gop-tax-scam", "Jayapal Statement on Passage of the GOP Tax Scam", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to House passage of the Republican tax bill that raises taxes on middle class families while giving tax breaks to large corporations and the wealthy:\nThe GOP tax scam bill is an all-out war on any idea of opportunity in this country. Its a massive tax break for the ultra-wealthy on the backs of middle class families. Its outrageous that Republicans in the House voted to pass this love letter to their largest donors and corporations.\nDespite overwhelming opposition from the American people, this tax scam dismantles the Affordable Care Act, throwing 13 million people off their health care. It eliminates most of the State and Local Tax deduction, short-changing communities and resulting in as much as $152 billion in cuts to education funding over the next decade. It runs up the deficit anywhere from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion, triggering cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. Despite what Republicans say, the fact of the matter is that 80 percent of all tax benefits in this bill go to the top one percent.\nWith this heist, Republicans have branded themselves as the party of billionaires and giant corporationsthey are robbing the American people and showing zero remorse.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://larsen.house.gov/https%3A//larsen.house.gov/press-release/Writing-a-National-Security-Strategy-is-Good%3B-Acting-Strategically-is-Better", "Larsen: Writing a National Security Strategy is Good; Acting Strategically is Better", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://larsen.house.gov/press-release/larsen-votes-against-republican-tax-conference-report", "Larsen Votes Against Republican Tax Conference Report", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today released the following statement after voting against the Republican tax conference report.\nOnce again, Congressional Republicans have put the interests of corporations and the wealthy ahead of what is best for hardworking American families. The latest partisan tax package will still drastically raise the deficit by $1.5 trillion, increase taxes on veterans and the middle-class, and deny vital comprehensive health coverage to over 39,000 Washingtonians in the district I represent.\nThe Republican tax conference report is nothing more than a permanent tax break for the wealthiest Americans at the expense of the middle class. Analysis from the Tax Policy Center found that the top one percent of Americans would receive an estimated 62 percent of the bills proposed tax cuts- that is more than double the George W. Bush-era tax cuts. In Washington state, the richest one percent will receive an average $7,750 tax cut under the GOP tax bill, while lower income Washingtonians face tax hikes  according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.\nI stand with my constituents who have called, sent letters, attended community coffees or otherwise made their voices heard about the harm this Republican tax bill would cause. Like the U.S. military retiree in Oak Harbor, who worries about how the GOP tax scam jeopardizes the retirement they have worked a lifetime for by raiding Medicare funds; the couple in Lynnwood who is concerned about the impact of the reduced mortgage interest and SALT deductions on their property value under the new bill and; the low- and middle income families throughout Washington states Second District who will struggle to make ends meet once the bills temporary, modest tax cuts end, said Larsen.\nReal bipartisan tax reform should simplify the tax code, support middle-class families and veterans, strongly invest in infrastructure, foster more well-paying jobs, and ensure access to affordable, high-quality health care.\nI voted against this GOP tax scam and will continue to push for a better deal to benefit all Americans.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cantwell-statement-on-banking-committees-rejection-of-ex-im-bank-nominee-scott-garrett", "Senator Cantwell Statement on Banking Committee\u2019s Rejection of Ex-Im Bank Nominee Scott Garrett", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.17\n    \t\t\t Senator Cantwell Statement on Banking Committees Rejection of Ex-Im Bank Nominee Scott Garrett \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Senate Banking Committees 13-10 vote to reject Scott Garretts nomination to chair the Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im). As a Congressman, Garrett favored dismantling the bank.\r\n\"I applaud the Senate Banking Committees decision to reject Mr. Garretts nomination. If we want to create jobs across America, we need a fully functioning Export-Import Bank approving these deals from manufacturers that are ready to close sales and hire workers, said Senator Cantwell. The president needs to send us a qualified nominee who wants to see the bank succeed.\"\r\nAs one of the most trade dependent state in the nation, the Ex-Im Bank is vital to Washington states economy. Since Ex-Im was reauthorized in December 2016, six transactions worth $2.6 billion whose primary exporter is from Washington State have been stalled.\r\nSenator Cantwell has long fought for a full functioning and permanently reauthorized Export-Import Bank to ensure American companies can compete on a level playing field with global competitors. She pressed for board members to be nominated and confirmed to the banks board last year. In December of 2015, the Ex-Im Bank received a 4-year reauthorization thanks in part to Cantwells advocacy. Later that year, a coalition of Democrats secured an agreement from Majority Leader McConnell to hold a vote to reauthorize Ex-Im, which resulted in an overwhelming majority of support.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=EBB456E0-0DCB-42BB-8AA1-C75A018EB7FE", "Senator Murray Statement on Banking Committee Rejecting Export-Import Bank Nominee Scott Garrett", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after the Senate Banking Committee, comprised of 12 Republicans and 11 Democrats, voted 13-10 to reject President Trumps nominee to lead the Export-Import Bank, Scott Garrett.\r\nThe Export-Import Bank is critical to the economy in my home state of Washington, and it deserves someone at the helm who believes in our workers and in U.S. manufacturing. Unfortunately, throughout the course of his nomination process, Scott Garrett failed to convince me that he was committed to the mission of the Ex-Im Bank or that he had abandoned his repugnant, anti-LGBTQ statements, so I applaud my colleagues on the Senate Banking Committee for rejecting his nomination. I would hope Republican leadership will not defy this Committee and attempt to advance this nomination any further. It is also now crucial for the full Senate to confirm the other five nominees to ensure Ex-Im can be a fully-functioning agency.\r\nFor more on Sen. Murrays meeting with Mr. Garrett, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-amtrak-train-501-derailment-", "Kilmer Statement on Amtrak Train 501 Derailment", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.18.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer Statement on Amtrak Train 501 Derailment  \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) issued the following statement regarding the derailment of Amtrak train 501 in Pierce County:\r\nI pray for the safety of those affected by the derailment of Amtrak train 501 near Dupont including passengers, commuters and first responders, Rep. Derek Kilmer said. I stand ready to work with Amtrak and state and federal officials as they manage the response to this incident and will continue monitoring this situation closely. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/senators-murray-cantwell-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce-critical-investments-in-puget-sound-recovery", "Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.18.17\n\t\t\t Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery \n\t\t\t(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts.\r\nPuget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts.\r\nInvestments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy.\r\nAll of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary.\r\nOne of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include:\r\n \r\nThe restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat;\r\nThe re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and\r\nImprovement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams.\r\n \r\nAccording to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget.\r\n \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/amtrak-train-that-crashed-was-on-first-run", "Amtrak train that crashed was on first run", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A high-speed Amtrak train that derailed in Washington stateon Mondaymorning was embarking on its inaugural run, raising questions about whether the passenger railroad was properly equipped to handle the new service.\nThe horrific crash, which left multiple people dead and injured, brought to life a chilling concernvoicedby Lakewood Mayor Don Anderson earlier this month: The new route could wind up killing someone.\nSomething went very, very wrong, Rep.Denny Heck(D-Wash.), who represents the district where the crash occurred, saidMonday. There are some questions we will demand to be answered.\nAn Amtrak train carrying 78 passengers was traveling across ahighway overpass in DuPont, Wash., and entering into a curve when it derailed, causing two rail cars to fall onto the highway below and leaving another dangling in the air. Its unclear what caused the crash or how fast the train was going.\nThe train waspart of a brand new Cascades high-speed rail service program that Amtrak launchedMondaymorning betweenSeattle and Portland. The train can travel up to a maximum speed of 79 mph and the cars are supposed to be equipped with a special technology that uses gravity to allow it to tilt through curves while it maintains speed.\nThe additional trips make the service more convenient and accessible for all travelers and allow more options for day trips along the corridor, Amtrak says on its website.\nBut Washington state officials have long been raising various safety concerns about the new high-speed route, including a warning that it could be especially dangerous for trains to travel that fast when they head into a curve.\nAmtrak did not immediately return a request for comment about when and how many test-runs were performed on the tracks prior toMonday, and whether there were any extra precautions taken to ensure that the new service ran smoothly on its first day.\nThe National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sent a team of investigators to the scene, where they will be exploring whether mechanical or human errors were to blame.\nTransportation experts say the NTSB will likely be looking at whether the tracks were properly equipped to handle the speed, how many practice runs were conducted, how fast the train was going, what the speed limit was, whether the brakes were applied and if there was proper signaling.\nSome of those questions could be easily discerned from the trains event recorder. But stickier questions  like whether Amtrak did enough to prepare its tracks and train engineers for the new high-speed service  may take much longer to answer.\nTheyre gonna go back and look very carefully at the work that was done upgrading the rails to allow for this 79-miles-per-hour speed, Peter Goelz, a former NTSBmanaging director, told CNN. You need to make sure that the rails have been checked, that the rail bed has been checked, that the ties have been correct.\nWe want to make sure that all the resources that should have been there were put in place, he added.\nAmtrak's president and co-CEO Richard Andersonreportedly saidon a conference call thatPositive Train Control (PTC), a technology that will eventually be required by law and that can automatically slow down a train that is going over the speed limit,was not activated along thecrash route.\nSafety advocates have criticized how slow railroads have been in implementing the costly and potentially life-saving technology. Amtrak has 67 percent of its route miles in PTC operation as of the second quarter of this year the latest data available.\nCongress originally gave commuter and freight railroads until the end of 2015 to install the technology, which can prevent derailments, collisions and improper track switching. But as railroads struggled to meet compliance deadlines, lawmakers pushed back the PTC implementation date to at least Dec. 31, 2018.\nWe dont know that it could have saved lives, but its a disappointment to me that we arent farther along in the implementation of installing PTC onto trains throughout America, not just in my district, Heck said.\nAmtrak, which is under new leadership, has long had to fight for adequate resources on Capitol Hill.President Trumps proposed 2018 budget would slash funding for Amtraks long-distance routes, while some Republicans have sought to entirelyeliminateAmtraks $1.1 billion in federal subsidies.\nBut Trumpseizedon the Amtrak derailment to pushfor his forthcoming plan to rebuild crumbling U.S. infrastructure.\nThe train accident that just occurred in DuPont, WA shows more than ever why our soon to be submitted infrastructure plan must be approved quickly,Trump tweetedMonday, hours after the crash.Seven trillion dollars spent in the Middle East while our roads, bridges, tunnels, railways (and more) crumble! Not for long!\nThe Washington State Department of Transportation said it used $800 million in federal funds from the Obama administrations American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to upgrade the route for high-speed rail service.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senators-murray-cantwell-and-representatives-kilmer-heck-announce", "Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts.\n\nPuget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts. \n\nInvestments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy.\n\nAll of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary.\n\nOne of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include:\n The restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat;\n\tThe re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and\n\tImprovement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams.\n \nAccording to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-denny-heck-on-derailment-of-amtrak-cascades", "Statement from Congressman Denny Heck on derailment of Amtrak Cascades 501 near DuPont, Washington", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Following the news of the derailment of the Amtrak Cascades 501 train traveling from Seattle to Portland, Representative Denny Heck (WA-10) issued the following statement:\n\nThe images emerging from this terrible accident are painful and distressing. My heart goes out to all of the families affected and we continue to keep them in our prayers in hopes that their loved ones will be okay. \n\nWe know this train was the first southbound Amtrak Cascades departure from Seattle to use the new Point Defiance Bypass route through south Tacoma, Lakewood, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting a thorough investigation to find out what went wrong. \n\nEven in the face of this devastating situation, our first responders and community put aside their grief and stepped up to help. I thank the professionals reporting to the scene, the community members donating blood, volunteers assisting victims families, and all of those around the country sending prayers. \n\nIndividuals looking for information about their loved ones on Amtrak Cascades 501 can call 800-523-9101.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-statement-amtrak-cascades-501-derailment", "Jayapal Statement on Amtrak Cascades 501 Derailment", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to the Amtrak Cascades 501 derailment near DuPont, Washington.\n\"The news of the devastating train derailment outside of Dupont this morning is horrifying. My heart goes out to the victims, their friends and family, and everyone impacted by this tragedy.\nThe results of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board will be critical in making sense of this deadly accident. We must ensure that the board and the local authorities have all the resources needed for thorough review and recovery efforts.\nI am deeply grateful for our first responders on the ground, and I will continue to closely monitor the situation as it develops. I urge anyone with friends and family who may be impacted by this tragedy to contact Amtrak immediately.\nIndividuals with friends and family on Amtrak Cascades 501 are encouraged to call 1-800-523-9101.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-amtrak-train-derailment", "Cantwell Statement on Amtrak Train Derailment", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.18.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement on Amtrak Train Derailment \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement on the Amtrak train derailment near Olympia, Washington.\r\nMy heart breaks for all those affected by todays derailment. We owe so much to the first responders who responded quickly to protect the public and save lives. I have spoken with Governor Inslee, the National Transportation Safety Board, Amtrak leadership, and others, and continue to get information on the derailment. We need to let the investigators on the ground do their job, and we should pay close attention to their recommendations to ensure that this type of tragedy will not be repeated. Until then, I will work with Senator Murray and the congressional delegation to ensure federal resources are available as needed.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=27E9000B-379F-49CB-832C-E7CA1FE0A8E5", "Senator Murray Statement on Deadly Train Derailment Near Olympia", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement.\r\nThis is a tough day for our stateand my heart goes out to the families who lost a loved one today, to the many more who were injured in this mornings derailment, and to all of those who remain uncertain and concerned about the full scope of the tragedy.\r\nI am reaching out to officials on the ground, and making it clear that I am ready to help in any way possible at the federal level. In the coming hours, days, and weeks, investigators will be looking into what caused this terrible tragedy and provide the answers to the many outstanding questions we all have about what happened and why.\r\nI want to extend my sincere gratitude for the many first responders who rushed to the scene and worked to help others in their time of need.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=AF8810F9-BBFC-4119-86CB-E93AC167DF6D", "Senators Murray, Cantwell and Representatives Kilmer, Heck Announce Critical Investments in Puget Sound Recovery", "2017-12-18", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "EPA awards more than $25M to support Puget Sound cleanup and protection efforts\r\nLawmakers push back against Trump Administrations efforts to eliminate funding for Puget Sound restoration\r\n(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Denny Heck (D-WA) announced new federal investments totaling $25.2 million to support the continued cleanup and restoration of the Puget Sound. Originally appropriated by Congress in last years budget, the grants were awarded through the Environmental Protection Agencys National Estuary Program and will fund state, local and tribal Puget Sound recovery and conservation efforts.\r\nPuget Sound is one of the Pacific Northwests most cherished cultural and environmental treasures, and this announcement is great news for Washington state families who benefit from the important role it plays in our states economy and ecology, said Senator Murray. Strong federal investments in the Sounds recovery and cleanup will help ensure that our local communities continue to reap Puget Sounds rich benefits for generations to come, and as a voice for Washington state I will continue fighting back against the Trump Administrations attempts to eliminate funding for this and other critical Puget Sound efforts.\r\nInvestments like these lead to a cleaner Puget Sound and healthy fisheries that sustain jobs in our tourism and fishing sectors, said Representative Kilmer. As co-chairman of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, Im working to protect Puget Sound and enhance the vital role it plays in our regions culture and economy.\r\nAll of us who are privileged to live in Washington state understand the fundamental importance of a healthy Puget Sound to our way of life. Orca and salmon call Puget Sound home, and are iconic figures of the Pacific Northwest, said Representative Heck. Federal investments like EPAs National Estuary Program, in partnership with our state, local, and tribal efforts, are vital to Puget Sound recovery and help us honor our treaty obligations. As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I will continue to fight for a greater federal role for our nations largest estuary.\r\nOne of the regions most vital natural resources, cleanup of Puget Sound is critical to the recovery of several Endangered Species Act-listed salmon species, the protection of tribal treaty rights, and to the environmental and economic future of Washington state. Among the efforts funded in whole or in part by the grant awards include:\r\n \r\nThe restoration of an additional 5,000 acres of key Orca and salmon habitat;\r\nThe re-opening of about 4,000 acres of shellfish beds in Puget Sound; and\r\nImprovement of biological condition from fair to good for at least 30 streams.\r\n \r\nAccording to the Environmental Protection Agency, the grants will fund projects that meet the goals of both the National Estuary Program and the Puget Sound Action Agenda which is developed by the Puget Sound Partnership, the Washington state agency charged with leading the states collective efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound. The grants were awarded to Washingtons Department of Ecology, Department of Health, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce, the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, Washington State Universitys Stormwater Center, the Puget Sound Partnership, and the University of Washingtons Puget Sound Institute. Senators Murray, Cantwell, and Representative Kilmer joined lawmakers earlier this year to restore funding for Puget Sound recovery and conservation after it was eliminated in President Trumps proposed budget.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ballard-locks-federal-infrastructure-deserve-more-funding", "Ballard Locks, federal infrastructure, deserve more funding", "2017-12-17", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington lawmakers are right to press President Donald Trumps administration to fund much needed maintenance and upgrades at the Ballard Locks in Seattle.\nIn aletter sent Friday, a coalition of representatives urged Trump and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fund the locks improvements in their 2018 and 2019 budgets.\nThis work is needed to ensure that the Lake Washington Ship Canals linkage to Puget Sound continues to operate safely and reliably.\nThe locks are among numerous public facilities built over the last century to enable industrial activity and the rise of cities in the West. Many suffer from a backlog of maintenance, along with much of the nations infrastructure.\nThis is another element of frustration with Trump. He promised massive infrastructure spending, which would have received bipartisan support. Yet instead hes pursuing divisive tax reforms that will put the nation deeper in debt and affect its ability to fund essential services and facilities.\nLacking a comprehensive infrastructure plan, places like the Puget Sound region must continually fight for dollops of funding to patch what they can.\nThe Ballard Locks are a strong candidate.\nMuchmore than a tourist destination, the century-old locks are the nations busiest and support maritime industries generating more than $1.2 billion in annual sales. The facility provides the only access from Puget Sound for 50 businesses on the freshwater side that employ about 3,000 people, according to a study released last summer.\nYet the locks need $30 million to $60 million worth of work.\nFridays letter notes that federal reviews deemed lock upgrades high urgency and found many of its components are in poor or failing condition. It specifically asks for $12 million to replace the original filling culvert valves with a more reliable hydraulic system that should also be safer for juvenile salmon.\nThe letter was sent by Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, along with U.S. Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck and Derek Kilmer.\nSince budget earmarks are no longer allowed, such letters are used to highlight spending priorities.\nThese lawmakers advocacy is appreciated  especially that of Senate Appropriations Committee member Murray.\nThey should be sure to work with the rest of the state delegation to seek funding for the locks and other critical infrastructure and waterways in Washington that are maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers.\nIt would especially help to add the voices of U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse, R-Sunnyside, and Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas. They serve on the House appropriations energy and water subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over the Army Corps civil works. Help from Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Spokane, would also be welcome.\nWhile these infrastructure projects are regional, the economic activity and diversity of employment opportunities they create benefit the entire state.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-herrera-beutler-kilmer-introduce-legislation-to-extend-vital-protection-of-fishing-boats-small-vessels-from-overly-broad-discharge-rule", "Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.15.17\n\t\t\t Reps. Herrera Beutler, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Extend Vital Protection of Fishing Boats, Small Vessels from Overly-Broad Discharge Rule \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) introduced legislation yesterday to extend an exemption for fishing boats and small vessels from EPA incidental discharge regulations so they can continue to operate without facing financial costs and delays.\r\nTheir bill, Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act, extends the current exemption by three years, relieving small boats under 79 feet from EPAs vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements.This protection has long-standing bipartisan support, andSen. Maria Cantwell has introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate.\r\nScience has shown that incidental discharge from small fishing boats and other undersized vessels  those under 79 feet  do not present significant environmental risks.These boats have been given an exemption from EPA-mandated vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements. Unfortunately, that exemption is set to expire on December 18, which would leave fishermen and small vessels at sudden risk of being in violation of a federal rule from which they've long been exempted.\r\nFishermen, shellfish growers and small vessel operators are key economic contributors to our Pacific County communities; theirlivelihoodsrepresent thousands of paychecks, Herrera Beutler said. These requirements were only ever meant for larger vessels, but if Congress doesn't act soon, the small boats will take a serious hit. I'm hopeful this bipartisan solution will be included in any end-of-year legislation to give our fishing businesses relief and certainty.\r\nThis is a commonsense solution to shield our small business owners from a regulation that was not intended to target them, Kilmer said. Congress should act now to fix the problem so that our fishermen and shellfish growers have the certainty they need to keep their operations afloat.\r\nTheir bill would provide continued relief to all vessels under 79 feet including commercial fishing boats, tugboats, tour boats, research boats, towboats, and offshore supply boats. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/wa-lawmakers-urge-federal-funding-for-critical-upgrades-to-ballard-locks_", "WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.15.17\n\t\t\t WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks   \n\t\t\t(Washington, D.C.)  Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair.\r\n\r\nIn their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure.\r\n\r\nThe full text of the letter is below and here.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Ryan A. Fisher\r\nActing Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works)\r\nU.S. Department of the Army\r\n108 Army Pentagon\r\nWashington, D.C. 20310-0108\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Mick Mulvaney \r\nDirector\r\nOffice of Management and Budget\r\n725 17th Street, N.W.\r\nWashington, D.C. 20503\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney:\r\n\r\nWe write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity  handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region.\r\n\r\nThe Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens.\r\n\r\nThe Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation.\r\n\r\nThe locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities.\r\n\r\nWhile the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure.\r\n\r\nIn 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration.\r\n\r\nWe respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound.\r\n\r\nThank you for your consideration of our request.\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-smith-decries-republican-s-reckless-actions-endangering", "Congressman Smith Decries Republicans Reckless Actions Endangering Mandatory Programs", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Adam Smith", "S000510", "adamsmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As Republicans in Congress continue to push their reckless tax cuts, they put at risk crucial agencies and programs, such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), military pensions, and Medicare. In addition to massively benefiting the wealthy and corporations, as well as reducing revenue by more than a trillion dollars, the tax bill endangers important mandatory spending priorities on which middle class and working Americans rely.                   \nIn 2010, to help reign in deficit spending, Congress passed what is known as a PAYGO law, requiring that the legislation enacted during a session of Congress not increase the deficit under threat of automatic cuts. Because of its imbalance, the Republican tax bill risks triggering these automatic and across-the-board PAYGO cuts to critical mandatory spending programs. In a strikingly disingenuous statement, the Senate Majority Leader and Speaker of the House have asserted that the PAYGO cuts to mandatory programs that will be triggered by their tax bill will not happen for some unspecified and seemingly miraculous reason. Either Republicans have a way to skirt the law that they havent shared, or their tax bill is going to trigger the automatic cuts. Both scenarios are terrible for the middle class.\nEmpty rhetoric is not enough, and Republicans irresponsible disregard for the consequences of their actions is dangerous. I continue to oppose the Republican tax bill and the damage it will inflict on the future of our economy and our country.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2239", "WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Suzan DelBene, Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair.  \r\n\r\nIn their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure.  \r\n\r\nThe full text of the letter is below and here.\r\n\r\nDear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: \r\nWe write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity  handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region.\r\n\r\nThe Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens.\r\n\r\nThe Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation.\r\n\r\nThe locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities.\r\n\r\nWhile the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure.\r\n\r\nIn 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration.\r\n\r\nWe respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound.\r\n\r\nThank you for your consideration of our request.\r\n\r\nSincerely,  \r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-hearing-builds-momentum-for-cfius-reform", "House Hearing Builds Momentum for CFIUS Reform", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House members on Thursday began digging into the details of a bill to reform the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States by increasing scrutiny of business deals that transfer valuable technology to countries like China that may pose a national security threat.\nThis is a problem that every part of the U.S. government will have to work together to address,\" Rep. Denny Heck said during a hearing of the House Financial Services Monetary Policy and Trade Subcommittee. \"There are some aspects of this problem that can only be addressed through legislative action to close gaps in existing CFIUS authority.\" Subcommittee Chairman Andy Barr praised the legislation and said he expected more hearings on it in early 2018.\nThe bill, identified asH.R. 4311 (115)in the House andS. 2098 (115)in the Senate, would expand CFIUS's jurisdiction to include some joint ventures, minority-position investments and real estate transactions located near military bases or other sensitive national security institutions. It would also expand the definition of \"critical technologies\" to include emerging technologies. For more details on the hearing, read the story from POLITICOs Mary Leehere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-intel-dem-if-trump-pardons-flynn-it-will-be-the-beginning-of-the", "House Intel dem: If Trump pardons Flynn it will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House Intelligence Committee member Rep. Dennis Heck (D-WA) on Friday warned Donald Trump against considering a pardon for his onetime national security adviser Michael Flynn, telling CNNs Kate Bolduan that doing so will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency.\nTrump kept the door opened for pardoning Flynn, who pleaded guilty earlier this month to lying to the FBI about the nature of his conversations with the Russian ambassador. I dont want to talk about pardons with Mike Flynn yet, Trump told reporters when asked if hes considered exonerating he longtime political ally.\nIf President Trump pardons Mike Flynn or any of the other people involved in this, I confidently predict it will be the beginning of the unraveling of his presidency, Heck said, comparing such a move with Richard Nixons Saturday Night Massacre.\nHeck also pointed out that special counsel Robert Mueller included a binding agreement in his plea deal with Flynn requiring the retired general to comply with state and local authorities.\nThe president can pardon these people for violations of federal crimes, but cannot pardon them for violations of state crimes, Heck explained.\nSo, if he thinks hes going to give them a get out of jail free card, hes flat wrong, he added. Once again, this presidentwho seems frankly, on so many occasions not to embrace the basic and fundamental American precept of the rule of lawhe just doesnt get it.\nHeck also criticized he Republican counterparts in the House Intelligence Committee, arguing theyre trying to get to the end of the investigation at a rate or at a velocity which is completely out of sync with what is necessary to do this job.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/wa-lawmakers-urge-federal-funding-critical-upgrades-ballard-locks", "WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair. In their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney: We write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity  handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region. The Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens. The Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation. The locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities. While the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure. In 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration. We respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound. Thank you for your consideration of our request. Sincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=0A3E3827-D172-48F1-8D59-DD1543B40DD4", "OPIOID CRISIS: Senator Murray Asks Nations Governors, Insurance Commissioners How Federal Government Can Be Best Partner for States on the Front Lines of Opioid Crisis", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate health committees top Democrat & Republican send letter to all of nations governors and insurance commissioners asking for specific recommendations to address crisis taking 91 American lives every day\r\nICYMI: Senator Murray admonishes Trump Administration for continued failure to support emergency funding needed to combat epidemic devastating Washington state & communities nationwide\r\nSen. Murray tackles opioid crisis, says it isnt somebody elses problem. Its all of ours\r\n(Washington, D.C.)  Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and committee chairman Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN) yesterday sent a letter to every governor and state insurance commissioner in the nation asking for their specific recommendations on how the federal government can be the most effective partner for states in the battle against the opioid crisis.\r\n\r\nWe are writing to ask what further changes to federal law or regulations would be helpful as you work to combat the opioid crisis in your state. Prescription drug abuse and misuse, and especially opioid abuse and misuse, is a public health crisis that has increased dramatically in scope during recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids has nearly quadrupled, with over 183,000 deaths in the U.S. between 1999 and 2015. In 2016, an estimated 64,000 Americans died from a drug overdose, and beginning in 2013, the nation has seen a skyrocketing increase in deaths related to fentanyl and synthetic opioids with over 20,000 overdose deaths. Every day, 91 Americans die from an opioid overdose, the senators wrote.\r\nAs a voice for Washington state, Senator Murray has long been focused on bringing an end to the opioid crisis that has deeply impacted communities throughout the region. In addition to traveling throughout Washington state to hear from families, patients, medical professionals and law enforcement about the unique challenges local communities face in their fight against the epidemic, Senator Murray has also worked to find bipartisan solutions to help combat opioid addiction and support recovery and prevention efforts. On November 30, Senators Murray and Alexander chaired a hearing in the Senates health committeethe second in a series of hearings on the opioid crisiswhich focused on what is happening at the state and local levels to address the crisis. On October 5, the committee held its first hearing of the series on the federal response to the opioid crisis with witnesses from the administration. Additionally, the 21st Century Cures Act, sponsored by Senator Murray and passed in December 2016, included provisions to advance biomedical research and speed the development of new safe and effective treatments and cures to patients, and provided $1 billion for state opioid prevention and treatment efforts.\r\nBelow is the full text of the letter:\r\nDecember 14, 2017\r\n\r\nDear Governors:\r\nWe are writing to ask what further changes to federal law or regulations would be helpful as you work to combat the opioid crisis in your state. Prescription drug abuse and misuse, and especially opioid abuse and misuse, is a public health crisis that has increased dramatically in scope during recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioids has nearly quadrupled, with over 183,000 deaths in the U.S. between 1999 and 2015. In 2016, an estimated 64,000 Americans died from a drug overdose, and beginning in 2013, the nation has seen a skyrocketing increase in deaths related to fentanyl and synthetic opioids with over 20,000 overdose deaths. Every day, 91 Americans die from an opioid overdose.\r\nCongress has been working in a bipartisan way to ensure that federal laws intended to help fight this crisis are up to date. In 2015, the Protecting Our Infants Act helped address the growing problem of infants being born exposed to opioids. In 2016, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act established new programs and encouraged those on the front lines to work together to combat substance use disorders. Also in 2016, as part of the 21st Century Cures Act, Congress modernized authorities and programs at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to better prevent and treat opioid use disorders and provided $1 billion of funding for two years to help states respond to the opioid crisis. All three bills were signed into law during the 114th Congress, and the first round of funding from the 21st Century Cures Act, a total of $485 million in grants, has been issued to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories.\r\nWe are asking you to inform us how these laws have helped state and local officials address the opioid crisis, whether additional changes to federal law or regulation are necessary, and if so, what specific changes should be considered.\r\nPlease submit recommendations and comments to HELPfightsopioids@help.senate.gov no later than January 15, 2018.\r\nCongress will continue to work on this national problem, and we appreciate your input to help our efforts to develop bipartisan, common-sense solutions that provide you with the tools and flexibility you need to fight the opioid crisis.\r\n\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=7FB30FC6-435C-4CBF-BE93-D0F1DC1A78E4", "WA Lawmakers Urge Federal Funding for Critical Upgrades to Ballard Locks", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The 100-year-old Locksresponsible for more than $1 billion in economic activity each yearare in desperate need of repairs\r\n(Washington, D.C.)  Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, Rick Larsen, Dave Reichert, Suzan DelBene, Denny Heck, and Derek Kilmer in a letter to the Trump Administration, urging it to use U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding to restore and modernize the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks. The Locks are not only important to public safety and the environment, but are also a significant economic driver in Washington state. Each year, the Locks handle more than one million tons of freight, support 3,000 full-time jobs, and attract over 1.3 million visitorsin total, generating $1.2 billion in economic activitybut the 100-year-old Locks are in desperate need of repair.\r\nIn their letter, the lawmakers warned of the consequences of further neglect to the Locks, writing: several Army Corps reviews found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure.\r\nThe full text of the letter is below and here.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Ryan A. Fisher\r\nActing Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works)\r\nU.S. Department of the Army\r\n108 Army Pentagon\r\nWashington, D.C. 20310-0108\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Mick Mulvaney\r\nDirector\r\nOffice of Management and Budget\r\n725 17th Street, N.W.\r\nWashington, D.C. 20503\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDear Acting Assistant Secretary Fisher and Director Mulvaney:\r\nWe write in support of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks project, more commonly known as the Ballard Locks, and urge you to allocate funding through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request for ongoing work to restore and modernize the ship canal and locks. The safe and efficient operation of the Ballard Locks supports $1.2 billion in total lock-related economic activity  handling more than 1 million tons of freight, approximately 3,000 full-time jobs, and over 1.3 million visitors annually in the Puget Sound region.\r\nThe Army Corps initiated planning for the ship canal and locks to connect the fresh water of Lake Union, Lake Washington, and Salmon Bay to the salt water of Puget Sound in the late 1890s following initial authorization in the River and Harbor Act of 1890. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the Lake Washington Ship Canal with a double lock was authorized in the River and Harbor Act of 1910. Construction began in 1911 and the locks were formally opened for vessel traffic on July 4, 1917. This project consists of a 30-foot ship canal, large and small navigation lock, dam, spillway with six gates, fish ladder, visitor center, and Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens.\r\nThe Ballard Locks allow commercial and recreational vessels to travel to the docks, shipyards, warehouses, maintenance and repair facilities, and marinas in the regions fresh water lakes while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging vessel life in the fresh water environment. The importance of the locks to the maritime industry is underscored by their annual usage. Each year, the Ballard Locks support approximately 45,000 vessel transits and 14,000 lockage counts, making them the busiest lock in the United States in overall vessel traffic. For commercial vessel transits only, the Ballard Locks are the twelfth busiest in the nation.\r\nThe locks provide critical public safety and environmental functions. It maintains the water level of Lake Washington and Lake Union. Without the locks, the east-west highway traffic on the Interstate-90 and State Route-520 floating bridges, the water and sewer systems that serve Mercer Island residents, and approximately 75 miles of developed commercial, municipal, and residential shoreline would be at risk. It also supports emergency response by the Seattle Fire Department, Seattle Harbor Patrol, King County Sheriff, and U.S. Coast Guard. The facilitys spillway and fish ladder serve as a link for salmon and steelhead migrating from the ocean upstream to fresh water spawning grounds, which is important for federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and tribal trust responsibilities.\r\nWhile the Army Corps has worked hard to maintain the project, the ship canal and locks are 100 years old. In 2012, the Dam Safety Action Classification rating for the project was designated as Class II (high urgency) and we understand an updated dam safety review is underway. In addition, several Army Corps reviews, including a Probability Failure Mode Analysis, 2012 Periodic Inspection, and 2013 Operational Condition Assessment, found that many lock and dam components are in poor or failing condition. An extended, unplanned closure of the ship canal and locks could have significant negative impacts for the more than 200 businesses that rely upon this project, endanger the lives of those living and working in the Puget Sound region, and damage critical infrastructure.\r\nIn 2010, the Seattle District began developing a prioritized list of the major maintenance projects that must be completed to restore and modernize the project. We appreciate the Administrations past work to repair the monolith scour, replace the spillway radial gate and dewatering pump plant, and the ongoing effort to install a new emergency closure crane for the large lock. We understand the next priority project would replace the original 1916 stoney gate filling culvert valves, including lifting machinery, control systems, and other components. These valves are used to raise or lower the water elevation in the large lock and are heavily corroded and warn. The lifting machinery is obsolete and unreliable, and the valve speed cannot be adjusted to support ESA fish migration.\r\nWe respectfully request that you allocate funding through the Army Corps Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan and the Presidents Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Request to replace the stoney gate filling culvert valves and continue work on necessary repairs and upgrades of the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This project is vital to the economy, public safety, and environmental in Puget Sound.\r\nThank you for your consideration of our request.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=FF7C6BD0-0D1B-42E5-8F00-CB37B5D1A92E", "Senator Murray Statement on Court Decision to Temporarily Block President Trumps Rollback of Birth Control Access", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Murray: Access to birth control isnt about politics, its about a womans health and her financial security\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) issued the following statement on a Pennsylvania federal judges decision to temporarily block the Trump Administrations rules that would allow virtually any employer or university to choose whether or not birth control is covered under their employees insurance.\r\nThis decision recognizes what women across the country already know: access to birth control isnt about politics, its about a womans health and her financial security. The Trump Administrations decision to allow virtually any employer or university to take birth control coverage away from women will have deeply harmful consequences for them and their families, and Im going to keep doing everything I can to fight back against their extreme, anti-woman agenda.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2238", "DelBene Statement in Opposition of the FCC Vote to Repeal Net Neutrality", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to repeal net neutrality rules that were put in place to protect consumers:\r\nAmerica has been a world leader in innovation in large part because weve benefited from a free and open internet, but we wont remain at the top by adopting backward policies that hurt consumers, DelBene said. I strongly oppose the FCCs decision to fully repeal net neutrality and allow internet service providers to influence the content users can see. Given the opportunity, internet service providers could block content and services or charge premiums for the kind of open access weve come to expect. Theres no question that todays vote is a massive loss, both for consumers and for innovation.\r\nToday, the FCC voted to rescind the 2015 Open Internet Order  net neutrality  which has protected consumers from internet service providers blocking, throttling or prioritizing certain content and services for a fee.\r\nBefore serving in Congress, DelBene had a long career in the technology sector as a businesswoman and entrepreneur.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-portman-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-people-receive-care-in-their-homes-reduce-health-costs-", "Cantwell, Portman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help People Receive Care in their Homes, Reduce Health Costs", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, Portman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help People Receive Care in their Homes, Reduce Health Costs  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u00a0\u2013 U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Rob Portman (R-OH) have introduced the Ensuring Medicaid Provides Opportunities for Widespread Equity, Resources, and Care Act \u2013 or EMPOWER Care Act \u2013 to help Medicaid beneficiaries receive long-term services and support in their community or home and help save taxpayer dollars in the process. The bill would renew and expand the Money Follows the Person (MFP) Demonstration Program, which promotes community-based care and services and is as a sterling example of an initiative that improves patient outcomes while saving money for state and federal taxpayers.\r\nThe program extended in Cantwell and Portman\u2019s legislation provides states with funding and flexibility to help Medicaid beneficiaries, including the elderly and people with disabilities, transition from institutional settings to home and community-based long-term care settings.\r\n\u201cHelping people access long-term care while staying in their own homes is a win-win: patients prefer it, and it saves money,\u201d said Senator Cantwell. \u201cThe EMPOWER Care Act will build on Washington state\u2019s leadership in promoting home- and community-based care, by giving states tools and resources to improve quality of life and reduce health care costs in their Medicaid programs.\u201d\r\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to continue my support for the Money Follows the Person program, by introducing the EMPOWER Care Act.\u00a0 Money Follows the Person has provided over 10,000 Ohioans with the opportunity receive the care that they need in their homes and communities, and I will continue to fight to ensure that all Ohioans can continue to have a choice in where they seek long-term care support,\u201d said Senator Portman.\r\nAs of September 2016, 43 states and the District of Columbia have participated in the MFP Demonstration Program.\u00a0 As of 2013, the program has saved nearly $1 billion for Medicare and Medicaid and helped over 63,000 individuals receive care at home or in a community-based setting, according to a recent report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.\u00a0\r\n\"People with disabilities and older adults simply want the same thing we all want - to live independently and age with dignity. However, far too many people end up in costly nursing homes when they could remain at home if they had access to community-based services,\" said Joe Caldwell, National Council on Aging Director of Long-term Supports and Services. \"The Money Follows the Person program is an integral support states need to help transition more individuals back home. It has improved the lives of over 75,000 individuals with disabilities and older adults and saved the federal government and states nearly a billion dollars. We applaud the bi-partisan leadership of Senators Portman and Cantwell to extend and improve the program.\"\r\nA documented success for more than two decades, community-based care has produced savings of more than $2.5 billion in Washington state. Through the MFP Demonstration Program specifically, Washington state\u2019s Medicaid program has saved $21 million dollars during a two-year period and assisted 6,700 Medicaid patients transition to community-based care settings, according to data from the Washington state Department of Social and Health Services.\r\n\u201cMoney Follows the Person has provided critical tools and supports that have helped people all across Washington State relocate from institutional settings back to the community.\u00a0 Without this support, many elders and persons with disabilities would remain stuck in facilities, instead of being able to return to the community and regain their independence,\u201d said Lynn Kimball, chair of the Washington Association of Area Agencies on Aging.\r\nSenator Cantwell was an early champion of \u201crebalancing\u201d efforts to shift Medicaid beneficiaries to community-based care settings. In the Affordable Care Act, Cantwell championed a provision, the Balancing Incentive Program that provides states with financial incentives to transition their long-term care populations to home- and community-based care services.\u00a0 Eighteen states have participated in Cantwell\u2019s program and have substantially increased their utilization of home- and community-based long term care.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-responds-to-fcc-net-neutrality-decision-with-legislation-to-block-repeal-of-open-internet-rules", "Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Responds to FCC Net Neutrality Decision with Legislation to Block Repeal of Open Internet Rules \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology, and 15 of her Senate colleagues joined together to announce their plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would undo today\u2019s action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to undermine the free and open internet and thus restore the 2015 net neutrality rules.\r\n\u201cToday\u2019s decision threatens our booming innovation economy,\u201d said Senator Cantwell. \u201cIt\u2019s impossible to know where the next big companies will come from, which makes an open and free internet all the more important to innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators \u2013 especially in the tech-driven Pacific Northwest.\u201d\r\nOverturning the net neutrality rules threatens the principles that built America\u2019s booming internet economy and opens the door for cable companies and internet service providers to start slowing down and blocking content, applications or websites, without consequences.\r\nCRA resolutions allow Congress to overturn regulatory actions at federal agencies with a simple majority vote in both chambers. In accordance with the Congressional Review Act, the Senators will formally introduce the resolution once the rule is submitted to both houses of Congress and published in the federal register. The CRA resolution of disapproval would rescind FCC Chairman Ajit Pai\u2019s action and fully restore the Open Internet Order. Congressman Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) plans to introduce a CRA resolution in the House of Representatives.\u00a0\r\nOther Senators co-sponsoring the CRA resolution include Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D\u2013CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Jack Reed (D-RI)\r\nIn the Senate, Cantwell has been a leader in the struggle to establish and protect net neutrality and equal access to the internet. She was an early advocate for the FCC to take up net neutrality and used her position as a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee to keep continuous pressure on the Commission during the drafting and implementation of the rules.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-senators-proposed-cuts-to-epa-threaten-public-health", "Cantwell, Senators: Proposed Cuts to EPA Threaten Public Health", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, Senators: Proposed Cuts to EPA Threaten Public Health \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined three dozen Senators in pushing back on proposed cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) budget that would threaten public health and the environment.\r\n\u201cThe Trump Administration has made dismantling the EPA a core mission. We urge you to oppose any legislation that advances that goal by further cutting the EPA's already decimated funding levels,\u201d the Senators wrote in a letter to Senate leaders.\r\n\u201cBecause of these endless attacks on both the career employees and regional programs, the EPA is badly underfunded, understaffed and struggling to perform its basic and legally required functions,\u201d they continued. \u201cWe cannot tolerate efforts to cripple an agency that, with increased use of Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments, is operating with staffing levels not seen since the 1980s.\u201d\r\nAs the Senators pointed out in the letter, these cuts threaten the EPA\u2019s core missions of protecting the environment and public health. If the EPA\u2019s funding levels continue to be slashed, fewer polluters will be held accountable, and clean air and water projects across the United States will be threatened.\r\nIn addition to Merkley, the letter was signed by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tom Udall (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Al Franken (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Angus King (I-ME), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Jon Tester (D-MT).\r\nThe full text of the letter is below and here.\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=42100BA5-F251-46AA-9EF7-6697B6C651CE", "Senator Murrays Statement on Vote to Roll Back Net Neutrality Rules", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement:\r\n\u201cDespite the pleas of millions of Americans, President Trump\u2019s FCC voted to change the internet as we know it, and turn it into yet another money-making tool for large corporations. This move is shameful and wrong, and I encourage the many, many people affected by today\u2019s decision\u2014from students and families, to small business owners and the next generation of innovators\u2014to keep fighting back. We will not forget who and what comes first in the Trump/Republican agenda.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2237", "DelBenes Landslide Bill Clears House Natural Resources Committee", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed with unanimous support Congresswoman Suzan DelBene\u2019s (WA-01) National Landslide Preparedness Act \u2013 a bipartisan, bicameral bill she introduced earlier this year with Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA).\r\n\u201cLawmakers need to do more to ensure we fund resources and research efforts to prevent future natural disasters from becoming national tragedies,\u201d DelBene said. \u201cIt is time that landslide hazards are addressed properly and in a collaborative fashion and I\u2019m glad the House Natural Resources Committee passed my legislation to boost significant scientific progress and help communities better prepare for when landslides do occur.\u201d\r\nThe National Landslide Preparedness Act would establish a National Landslide Hazards Reduction Program through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to better identify and understand landslide risks, protect communities, save lives and property and help improve emergency preparedness. The bill now heads to the House floor for further consideration.\r\nAccording to the USGS and National Research Council, landslide hazards claim 25 to 50 lives each year and cause between $1.6 and $3.2 billion in damages in the United States.\r\nDelBene introduced the legislation after a massive landslide near Oso, Washington, killed 43 people, engulfed 42 homes and severely damaged public infrastructure and private property on March 22, 2014.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ahead-of-tomorrows-fcc-vote-cantwell-defends-net-neutrality", "Ahead of Tomorrow\u2019s FCC Vote, Cantwell Defends Net Neutrality", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.17\n    \t\t\t Ahead of Tomorrow\u2019s FCC Vote, Cantwell Defends Net Neutrality \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) took to the Senate floor to defend net neutrality and urge the Federal Communications (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai to halt his efforts to roll back protections for an open and free internet. The FCC is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai\u2019s efforts to end net neutrality, which will allows cable companies and service providers to block, throttle, or prioritize content.\r\nHere is an excerpt from Senator Cantwell\u2019s remarks.\r\n\u201cThe FCC has had rules that prevented companies from throttling or blocking, and those rules have paved the way to many great successes. We have in the United States Fortune 500 companies and a tech industry that is responsible for 7% of our nation's GDP and 6.9 million jobs in the United States of America. Why would you change the rules now? \u202613% of Washington state's economy depends on a healthy internet sector. The internet economy for our state supports 250,000 jobs and\u2026these tech jobs have been a bedrock for the middle class. Chairman Pai is clearly not focused on the 13,000 tech companies in the state of Washington, the 250,000 jobs, and the 13% of our state's economy.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-warns-the-gop-tax-bill-will-harm-affordable-housing-efforts-leave-working-families-in-the-rain", "Cantwell Warns the GOP Tax Bill Will Harm Affordable Housing Efforts, Leave Working Families in the Rain", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Warns the GOP Tax Bill Will Harm Affordable Housing Efforts, Leave Working Families in the Rain \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Senator to GOP tax-writers: don\u2019t let down working families by failing to address the nation\u2019s affordable housing crisis\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) dialed up her fight to expand Americans\u2019 access to affordable housing. At what was likely the only meeting of the House-Senate Conference Committee to reconcile the GOP tax bills, Cantwell urged her Republican colleagues not to abandon their constituents by using the tax bill to strip out or undermine the country\u2019s most successful programs for creating and rehabilitating affordable housing.\r\nMultiple provisions in the House and Senate tax legislation would eliminate or substantially weaken the two most effective vehicle for creating affordable housing: the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Private Activity Bonds (PABs).\r\nIn the conference committee hearing, Cantwell noted the large bipartisan group of senators who are on record supporting an expansion of affordable housing. \u201cYet the tax bill before us today goes in the opposite direction, with potentially crippling impact on our nation\u2019s most important program for building and preserving affordable housing,\u201d said Cantwell. \u201cAs many as 800,000 fewer units [of affordable housing] will be built over the next ten years because of this House language.\u201d\r\nEarlier in the day, Cantwell laid out just how high the stakes are if Republicans\u2019 tax bill fails to address the country\u2019s affordable housing crisis. At a speech before the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) earlier today, Cantwell spoke to a BPC report indicating that a lack of access to affordable housing has negative health consequences for low- and middle-income Americans.\u00a0\r\nThe LIHTC contributes to 90% of the new affordable housing units built in the U.S., far surpassing any other federal affordable housing program. PABs are the primary vehicles state and local governments use to finance affordable housing projects.\r\nSenator Cantwell has applied relentless pressure on her Republican colleagues and the White House to address the mounting affordable housing crisis in their tax legislation.\r\nA full transcript of Senator Cantwell\u2019s remarks is below.\r\nSenator Cantwell: The House and Senate bill severely undermine the means by which we build affordable housing for working class families in America. \r\nThe Low Income Housing Tax Credit was part of the 1986 act and had bipartisan support.\u00a0Senator\u00a0Hatch and I believe we should be expanding the affordable tax credit. Nine members of the Finance Committee, including five Republican members are co-sponsors of the bill. In fact, four Republican co-sponsors of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit expansion are sitting on this conference committee, as well as three democratic co-sponsors. Yet the tax bill before us today goes in the opposite direction, with potentially crippling impact on our nation's most important program for building and preserving affordable housing. \r\nNearly 20 million Americans are in this crisis of affordability. Look at what's happening now in the states of Texas and Florida, as they face the crisis of rebuilding after the hurricanes. \r\nUnder the House proposal, the tax-exempt status for private activity bonds would be eliminated, including for multi-housing bonds, which would account for about half of all the housing production under the Low Income Housing Tax Credit. \r\nI keep hearing justifications for getting rid of the bonds, because some people don't like the activities that they support, but tell me which ones of you don't support that for housing. If it is the case, preserve the housing credit. According to an estimate, as many as 800,000 fewer units will be built over the next ten years, because of this house language. \r\nNow, the Senate has problems, as well. Obviously, we want to make sure that our colleagues understand that investors who currently are able to deduct losses generated in the investment as a result of the limit on the rents to make sure that housing is affordable. Affordable housing projects do not earn returns for their investors like private real estate, so reducing the top rate does not provide a benefit, and will not increase an incentive. It is because the tax deduction investors take under the proposal will be worth considerably less at 20% compared to the 35% rate. The result is investors will pay less for the given credit, and we estimate as about $2 billion less, or 200,000 units, about a 15% reduction. \r\nAs well as the BEAT erosion, trying to focus on foreign corporations. We believe that there are those who are investing along with JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup that account for $1.5-2 billion of investment annually that also will be reduced, making about 10 to 15% less available for investment and affordable housing. \r\nThese three things taken together will probably, if all impacted the way this bill is written, reduce by 50% the amount of affordable housing when we need to be going in the opposite the direction. I yield to my colleague.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/citing-unknown-impacts-on-students-and-schools-senators-cantwell-and-murray-demand-delay-of-net-neutrality-decision", "Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.17\n    \t\t\t Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Senators are concerned rolling back net neutrality could exacerbate education inequity and increase digital divide\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t (Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation\u2019s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools\u2014specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide.\r\n\u201cBy overturning the Commission\u2019s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation\u2019s students and schools\u2014especially those in rural and low-income communities,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cWe urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s students and their ability to learn.\u201d\r\nAllowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers\u2019 and students\u2019 ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high-quality education. On December 14, the Commission is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai\u2019s proposal, which will roll back the FCC\u2019s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization and will give more power to internet service providers (ISPs).\r\nIn addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).\r\nFull text of letter below and PDF HERE.\u00a0\r\nDecember 12, 2017\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Ajit PaiChairmanFederal Communications Commission445 12th Street SouthwestWashington, DC 20554\r\nDear Chairman Pai:\r\nWe write today regarding your draft order\u2014the Restoring Internet Freedom Order (\u201cthe Draft Order\u201d) \u2014and its potential impacts on students, schools, and institutions of higher education. By overturning the Commission\u2019s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation\u2019s students and schools\u2014especially those in rural and low-income communities. We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s students and their ability to learn.\r\nIn the past four years, P-12 schools have made enormous strides in improving access to high-speed connectivity for all students. In 2013, 40 million students were in schools not meeting the 100 kbps per student threshold. By 2017, only 6.5 million students were in schools not meeting this goal\u2014narrowing this gap by 84 percent.\u00a0From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience.\r\nThe Draft Order runs counter to our national goal of affordable, high-speed internet for all students. By rolling back the FCC\u2019s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization, the Draft Order could lead to a tiered and compartmentalized internet, and whose characteristic openness is limited to those students, schools, and institutions who can afford it. Beyond that, the Draft Order threatens to impede innovation that has taken place within the educational sphere, including when it comes to access to high-quality online coursework.\r\nOur nation\u2019s P-12 education system increasingly relies on an open internet to improve equity and access to high-quality content and instruction. Teachers depend on the internet to collaborate with colleagues and to access educational materials from around the globe. Entrepreneurs and educators alike have been able to develop high-quality educational technologies that support state standards and equip schools and teachers to personalize instruction. These technologies, which include educational apps and online coursework, help students learn valuable research and internet safety skills, and expand access to a high-quality education for students with disabilities and English learners. By allowing ISPs to limit access and increase costs, the Draft Order could threaten educational equity and exacerbate the digital divide.\u00a0\r\nRural schools could be particularly harmed by the potential effects of the Draft Order. One recent analysis shows that the 77 percent of the schools that lack high-speed fiber connections are in rural communities.\u00a0Despite the Draft Order\u2019s claim that the Commission\u2019s current rules have stifled investment in internet infrastructure and rural communities, independent studies have found that such investments by ISPs have largely remained stable\u00a0and in some cases have increased in underserved areas.\u00a0The Draft Order would neither protect fiscally-strapped schools and school districts from aggressive ISP pricing practices, nor would it guarantee any additional investment in underserved areas.\r\nInstitutions of higher education rely on an open internet to carry out both their educational and research missions. For instance, online coursework has grown significantly over the past decade: as of the fall of 2015, more than 6 million students enrolled in at least one online course, representing about 30 percent of enrollments, compared to less than 10 percent in the fall of 2002.\u00a0Should the Draft Order be adopted, video lectures and online learning resources that are essential to institutions of higher education may be rendered unavailable by ISPs that decide to block them or otherwise privilege a competing resource. Additionally, basic research, which today more than ever relies upon frequent exchange of massive data sets online, could be severely impacted by a tiered and tolled internet. The Association of Research Libraries has stated that \u201cif our institutions had to pay a fee in order to access these connections or download these digital files, it wouldn't happen.\u201d\u00a0Resource-constrained public institutions of higher education, the biggest users of online coursework, which remain funded nearly $9 billion below their per-student levels before the Great Recession, would particularly feel these constraints.\r\nThe Draft Order may also disproportionately impact students whose only adequate connection to the internet is the one inside their classroom. Even in 2017, far too many students lack access to a reliable, high-speed internet connection outside their classrooms\u2014at home or off-campus. According to a 2015 Pew Research Center analysis, approximately 5 million households with school-age children did not have high-speed internet at home. This analysis found that households with annual incomes under $50,000 were more than three times as likely to lack a high-speed connection than those with incomes over $50,000; nearly 40 percent of households with annual incomes under $25,000\u2014165 percent of full-time federal minimum wage\u2014did not have a high-speed connection.\u00a0Coupled with the Commission\u2019s recent modifications to the Lifeline program and proposed changes to the critical Universal Service Fund\u2019s Schools and Libraries Program (\u201cE-Rate\u201d) program, implementation of the Draft Order could further deepen the \u201cdigital divide,\u201d effectively limiting or outright denying internet access to the students who need it most.\r\nIn summary, we are deeply concerned about the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s education system. Subsequently, we ask that you delay your planned vote to roll back net neutrality and forever change the landscape of the internet until you can satisfactorily answer the following questions:\r\n \r\nThe Draft Order fails to make a single mention of \u2018student\u2019 or \u2018students\u2019 in its 210 pages; to what extent did the Commission contemplate the Draft Order\u2019s impact on students and the programs, schools, and institutions of higher education that they attend?\r\n \r\n \r\nWhat tangible and enforceable guarantees does the Draft Order provide for schools and institutions of higher education in rural areas, which face substantial barriers to accessing a high-speed internet connection? \r\n\r\nWhat evidence does the Commission have that the Draft Order will provide superior connectivity over the regulatory regime currently in place?\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nHow will the Draft Order affect the E-Rate program, including the progress made in such program since the 2014 modernization order?\r\n \r\n \r\nParagraph 256 of the Draft Order \u201creject[s] the contrary argument ISPs will engage in \u2018virtual redlining\u2019 because, as discussed, paid prioritization is likely to lead to increased network investment and lower costs to end users, particularly benefitting those on the wrong side of the digital divide.\u201d\r\n \r\n \r\n\r\nWhat steps will the Commission take to ensure that ISPs do not engage in such behavior and that issues associated with the \u201cdigital divide\u201d and the \u201chomework gap\u201d are not being actively exacerbated by the regulatory framework envisioned by the Draft Order?\r\n\r\n \r\nWe thank you for your consideration of these pressing issues. We look forward to your swift and detailed response.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=802FB033-F409-4AE7-915E-88DA7B3C39D2", "Senator Murray Blasts Anti-Middle Class Provisions in Republican Tax Plan, Urges Leader Mitch McConnell to Halt Vote on Massive Tax Bill Until Alabamas Senator-Elect is Seated", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In statement for initial conference committee meeting, Senator Murray takes reckless GOP tax bill to task, citing bill\u2019s health care sabotage, economic burden on middle class families, and rushed, partisan process\r\nIn follow-up letter to nonpartisan analysts, Senator Murray asks for clarity on GOP tax bill\u2019s anti-middle class provisions and how it would affect families in Washington state and across the country\r\nICYMI: \u201cSenate Republicans have once again made it clear that their highest priority is handing more tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations\u201d\r\nThe Columbian: \u201cMurray, Cantwell on conference committee for tax legislation\u201d\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Citing the devastating impact of the Republican tax plan on middle class families in Washington state and around the country, today Senator Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee and one of seven Senate Democrats appointed to the conference committee to negotiate the final legislation, urged Republicans on the committee to finally reverse course on their partisan proposal and begin working with Democrats on a plan to help working people. Additionally, Senator Murray called on Republican leaders to accept the will of the people in Alabama and halt their attempt to jam through a tax plan before Senator-elect Doug Jones is seated.\r\nIn remarks submitted for the record at the conference committee\u2019s first session, Senator Murray highlighted many concerns with the Republican tax plan, writing:\r\n\u201cThis has been a sham partisan process\u2014a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible\u2014and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn\u2019t fooling anyone.\u00a0 Because let\u2019s be very clear about what this tax plan would do\u2014it\u2019s pretty simple. The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations. It would raise taxes on the middle class. It would increase health premiums for millions of patients. It would open up the pristine Arctic Refuge to drilling. It would blast a massive hole in our deficit\u2014and put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in grave danger.\u201d\r\nSenator Murray also cautioned her colleagues that several health care proposals being discussed in tandem with the GOP tax plan, including the Murray-Alexander plan that would lower insurance premiums and stabilize insurance markets, would not undo the economic damage and health care sabotage caused by their tax bill:\r\n\u201cThe health care stabilization bill I worked on with Chairman Alexander and Senator Collins\u2019 reinsurance bill are both good bills that would help push back against President Trump\u2019s sabotage of health care, but they won\u2019t stop the premium increases, coverage losses, and chaos that the Republican tax bill would cause\u2014and that\u2019s assuming they could even pass through the Republican House. So I urge my Republican colleagues to take a step back here, and stop this sham process while they still have a chance.\u201d\r\n(Read Senator Murray\u2019s full remarks submitted for the record HERE.)\r\nAdditionally, Senator Murray posed several questions to the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) to clarify the specific impact of several of the bill\u2019s provisions on working people. In a letter to Chief of Staff Thomas Barthold following the committee session, Senator Murray cited the exclusion of Democrats from the final process of drafting the conference committee legislation and requested information to confirm JCT\u2019s analysis that several provisions in the Republican plan would worsen economic and health outcomes for many middle class families.\r\nRead the full text of Senator Murray\u2019s letter below.\r\n\u00a0\r\nDecember 13, 2017\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\r\nMr. Thomas Barthold\r\nChief of Staff\r\nJoint Committee on Taxation\r\n502 Ford House Office Building\r\nWashington, DC 20515\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Mr. Barthold:\r\nSince I am unable to attend the Conference Committee meeting on H.R. 1, the \u201cTax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)\u201d on Wednesday, I am submitting the questions I would have asked you if I were in attendance, as well as a few other critically important questions. However, I must first note that these questions are based on the tax bills that were jammed through the House and then the Senate at breakneck speed.\u00a0 While I would prefer to tailor my questions to the actual tax bill that has been negotiated for this Conference Committee, my Democrat colleagues and I were not consulted nor invited to participate in those conversations.\u00a0 Moreover, we have not seen the bill resulting from those negotiations, so this Conference Committee meeting seems to be more proof that this process was never intended to follow traditional order.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\r\n \r\nCan you confirm that if the House recedes to the Senate on a policy that repeals the individual coverage requirement, CBO estimates this policy would result in 13 million fewer Americans with health insurance coverage by 2027 and that premiums would be10 percent higher in most of the next ten years?\r\nIf the Senate recedes to the House on the change to the 529 college savings plans redefining eligible beneficiaries, which we know were included to undermine women\u2019s health and rights, will families be able to open college savings accounts any earlier than they are able to under current law?\r\nHow many children live in families who will be affected by a new provision in this bill requiring the filer to have a Social Security number to claim the\u00a0Child Tax Credit under both the House bill and the Senate amendment? How much revenue did filers with Individual Tax Identification Numbers contribute to the Federal Treasury? How is taking away this critical anti-poverty tool incentivizing these filers or helping children from immigrant families out of poverty?\u00a0\r\nCan you confirm that if the Senate recedes to the House on higher education tax provisions, the combined effect of changes to the tax credits, student loan interest deduction, employer-provided educational assistance, and tuition waivers would mean that students who enroll in higher education and training would see a collective tax increase of nearly $65 billion from 2018-2027?\r\nCan you confirm that if the Senate recedes to the House on changes to the Lifetime Learning tax credit, student loan interest deduction, and employer-provided educational assistance provisions, it would raise the tax liability of millions of graduate students nationwide\r\nAccording to estimates prepared by your office, ending the state and local tax deduction (SALT) will increase the effective tax rate for millions of people across the country, including about a third of those making between $50,000-$75,000 per year, and half of taxpayers making between $75,000- $100,000. As states, cities, and municipalities have told Members of Congress, much of these tax savings go to public education, public health care, and public infrastructure. As a result of the SALT elimination, can the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) confirm whether it anticipates a reduction in state and local spending on public education, public health care, and public infrastructure?\r\nCan you confirm that if the House recedes to the Senate on the sunset of the individual tax provisions, corporations would receive a massive permanent tax cut (from 35 to 20 percent tax rate), while certain individuals will only receive modest temporary tax relief?\r\nCan you confirm that your office found that the tax bills passed by the House and the Senate would not generate enough economic growth to pay for their $1.4 trillion in tax cuts?\u00a0\r\nDid the Joint Committee on Taxation in fact find that $1 trillion would be added to the deficit over the next decade for the bill that passed each chamber?\r\nCan you confirm that under the statutory Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) Act, the budgetary effects of the Republican tax package, which would raise deficits by up to $1.5 trillion over 10 years, would go onto the statutory PAYGO scorecards and be subject to sequestration procedures, including automatic cuts in Medicare and other, non-exempt mandatory spending? Can you confirm, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that enacting the Republican tax package would result in a sequestration order under statutory PAYGO of up to $136 billion in 2018 alone, resulting in $25 billion of cuts to Medicare and tens of billions of dollars in cuts to other programs? Can you confirm that the size of the cuts to programs other than Medicare would mean the zeroing out of remaining funding in 2018 for entire programs, including the Crime Victims Fund, the Social Services Block Grant, and the Public Health and Prevention Fund? Can you confirm the distribution of the cuts from these programs would disproportionately hit middle- and lower-income families?\u00a0 \u00a0\r\nWhen will the Joint Committee on Taxation\u2019s score and analysis on the bill that Republicans are negotiating in this conference (without the input of the Democrats on this Conference Committee) be available?\u00a0\r\n \r\nThank you in advance for your prompt attention to this matter.\u00a0 I would appreciate your responses at your earliest convenience, especially considering that we may be voting as early as next week on yet another tax bill that we have not seen and do not have sufficient time to study.\u00a0 If you have any questions, or would like to further discuss compliance with this request, please contact Kendra Isaacson or Zach Mallove on my staff at (202) 224-6572 or (202) 224-1464, respectively. \r\n\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=93B97698-5875-41EF-9FB6-6A58C6E1A308", "Citing Unknown Impacts on Students and Schools, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Delay of Net Neutrality Decision", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FCC Chairman Pai is proposing to roll back net neutrality rules without any apparent consideration of impact on our nation\u2019s students\u00a0\r\nSchools in low-income and rural areas relying on high-speed internet to help kids learn could be hit especially hard by FCC decision\u00a0\r\nSenators are concerned rolling back net neutrality could exacerbate education inequity and increase digital divide\r\nSenators: \u201cFrom early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience\u00a0\"\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate education committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and 20 U.S. Senators sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urging him to consider how a free, fair and open internet provides our nation\u2019s students with opportunities to learn and succeed. Senators requested Chairman Pai delay the proposed vote to undo net neutrality until he specifically addresses the impacts on students and schools\u2014specifically those in rural or low-income communities, as well as how it will address education equity and the digital divide.\r\n\u201cBy overturning the Commission\u2019s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation\u2019s students and schools\u2014especially those in rural and low-income communities,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cWe urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s students and their ability to learn.\u201d\r\nAllowing internet service providers to limit access and increase costs could increase the digital divide for students in rural and low-income areas, where their only access to the internet may be at a resource-constrained school or a public library. This decision could also hinder teachers\u2019 and students\u2019 ability to access educational materials from around the globe and make it more difficult for students with disabilities and English learners to receive a high-quality education. On December 14, the Commission is expected to vote along party lines in favor of Chairman Pai\u2019s proposal, which will roll back the FCC\u2019s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization and will give more power to internet service providers (ISPs).\r\nIn addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Al Franken (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).\r\nFull text of letter below and PDF HERE.\r\n\u00a0\r\nDecember 12, 2017\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Ajit Pai\r\nChairman\r\nFederal Communications Commission\r\n445 12th Street Southwest\r\nWashington, DC 20554\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Chairman Pai:\r\nWe write today regarding your draft order\u2014the Restoring Internet Freedom Order (\u201cthe Draft Order\u201d) \u2014and its potential impacts on students, schools, and institutions of higher education. By overturning the Commission\u2019s current rules that preserve net neutrality and prevent internet service providers (ISPs) from blocking, throttling, or otherwise privileging lawful content, we fear that the Draft Order could harm our nation\u2019s students and schools\u2014especially those in rural and low-income communities. We urge you to delay this monumental decision to dismantle net neutrality until you have fully examined the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s students and their ability to learn.\r\nIn the past four years, P-12 schools have made enormous strides in improving access to high-speed connectivity for all students. In 2013, 40 million students were in schools not meeting the 100 kbps per student threshold. By 2017, only 6.5 million students were in schools not meeting this goal\u2014narrowing this gap by 84 percent.[1] From early childhood education through higher education and workforce training, students need access to high-speed internet in order to learn and make the most of their educational experience.\r\nThe Draft Order runs counter to our national goal of affordable, high-speed internet for all students. By rolling back the FCC\u2019s current prohibitions against blocking, throttling, and paid prioritization, the Draft Order could lead to a tiered and compartmentalized internet, and whose characteristic openness is limited to those students, schools, and institutions who can afford it. Beyond that, the Draft Order threatens to impede innovation that has taken place within the educational sphere, including when it comes to access to high-quality online coursework.\r\nOur nation\u2019s P-12 education system increasingly relies on an open internet to improve equity and access to high-quality content and instruction. Teachers depend on the internet to collaborate with colleagues and to access educational materials from around the globe. Entrepreneurs and educators alike have been able to develop high-quality educational technologies that support state standards and equip schools and teachers to personalize instruction. These technologies, which include educational apps and online coursework, help students learn valuable research and internet safety skills, and expand access to a high-quality education for students with disabilities and English learners. By allowing ISPs to limit access and increase costs, the Draft Order could threaten educational equity and exacerbate the digital divide.\u00a0\r\nRural schools could be particularly harmed by the potential effects of the Draft Order. One recent analysis shows that the 77 percent of the schools that lack high-speed fiber connections are in rural communities.[2] Despite the Draft Order\u2019s claim that the Commission\u2019s current rules have stifled investment in internet infrastructure and rural communities, independent studies have found that such investments by ISPs have largely remained stable[3] and in some cases have increased in underserved areas.[4] The Draft Order would neither protect fiscally-strapped schools and school districts from aggressive ISP pricing practices, nor would it guarantee any additional investment in underserved areas.\r\nInstitutions of higher education rely on an open internet to carry out both their educational and research missions. For instance, online coursework has grown significantly over the past decade: as of the fall of 2015, more than 6 million students enrolled in at least one online course, representing about 30 percent of enrollments, compared to less than 10 percent in the fall of 2002.[5] Should the Draft Order be adopted, video lectures and online learning resources that are essential to institutions of higher education may be rendered unavailable by ISPs that decide to block them or otherwise privilege a competing resource. Additionally, basic research, which today more than ever relies upon frequent exchange of massive data sets online, could be severely impacted by a tiered and tolled internet. The Association of Research Libraries has stated that \u201cif our institutions had to pay a fee in order to access these connections or download these digital files, it wouldn't happen.\u201d[6] Resource-constrained public institutions of higher education, the biggest users of online coursework, which remain funded nearly $9 billion below their per-student levels before the Great Recession, would particularly feel these constraints.[7]\r\nThe Draft Order may also disproportionately impact students whose only adequate connection to the internet is the one inside their classroom. Even in 2017, far too many students lack access to a reliable, high-speed internet connection outside their classrooms\u2014at home or off-campus. According to a 2015 Pew Research Center analysis, approximately 5 million households with school-age children did not have high-speed internet at home.[8] This analysis found that households with annual incomes under $50,000 were more than three times as likely to lack a high-speed connection than those with incomes over $50,000; nearly 40 percent of households with annual incomes under $25,000\u2014165 percent of full-time federal minimum wage[9]\u2014did not have a high-speed connection.[10] Coupled with the Commission\u2019s recent modifications to the Lifeline program and proposed changes to the critical Universal Service Fund\u2019s Schools and Libraries Program (\u201cE-Rate\u201d) program, implementation of the Draft Order could further deepen the \u201cdigital divide,\u201d effectively limiting or outright denying internet access to the students who need it most.\r\nIn summary, we are deeply concerned about the Draft Order\u2019s impact on our nation\u2019s education system. Subsequently, we ask that you delay your planned vote to roll back net neutrality and forever change the landscape of the internet until you can satisfactorily answer the following questions:\r\n \r\nThe Draft Order fails to make a single mention of \u2018student\u2019 or \u2018students\u2019 in its 210 pages; to what extent did the Commission contemplate the Draft Order\u2019s impact on students and the programs, schools, and institutions of higher education that they attend?\r\n \r\n \r\nWhat tangible and enforceable guarantees does the Draft Order provide for schools and institutions of higher education in rural areas, which face substantial barriers to accessing a high-speed internet connection?\r\n\r\nWhat evidence does the Commission have that the Draft Order will provide superior connectivity over the regulatory regime currently in place?\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nHow will the Draft Order affect the E-Rate program, including the progress made in such program since the 2014 modernization order?\r\n \r\n \r\nParagraph 256 of the Draft Order \u201creject[s] the contrary argument ISPs will engage in \u2018virtual redlining\u2019 because, as discussed, paid prioritization is likely to lead to increased network investment and lower costs to end users, particularly benefitting those on the wrong side of the digital divide.\u201d[11]\r\n\r\nWhat steps will the Commission take to ensure that ISPs do not engage in such behavior and that issues associated with the \u201cdigital divide\u201d and the \u201chomework gap\u201d are not being actively exacerbated by the regulatory framework envisioned by the Draft Order?\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nWe thank you for your consideration of these pressing issues. We look forward to your swift and detailed response.\r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n[7] Allen, I. Elaine, Ph.D., and Jeff Seaman, Ph.D. \"Distance Education Enrollment Report 2017.\" May 2017. https://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/digtiallearningcompassenrollment2017.pdf, 4. Mitchell, Michael, Michael Leachman, and Kathleen Masterson. \"A Lost Decade in Higher Education Funding.\" August 23, 2017. https://www.cbpp.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/2017_higher_ed_8-22-17_final.pdf, 2.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=B8FD83ED-2464-4C05-AADF-CB517608728A", "Senator Murrays Statement on First Conference Committee Meeting", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\"Thank you Chairmen Brady and Hatch, Ranking Members Neal and Wyden, and all of my colleagues on this conference committee.\r\n\"Honestly, I\u2019m not even sure why we are here today.\r\n\"This has been a sham partisan process\u2014a brazen partisan attempt to jam through legislation that would devastate our economy with as little scrutiny or debate as possible\u2014and this dog-and-pony show of regular order today isn\u2019t fooling anyone.\u00a0\r\n\"Because let\u2019s be very clear about what this tax plan would do\u2014it\u2019s pretty simple.\r\n\"The Republican tax plan would be a massive giveaway to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations.\r\n\"It would raise taxes on the middle class.\r\n\"It would increase health premiums for millions of patients.\r\n\"It would open up the pristine Arctic Refuge to drilling.\r\n\"It would blast a massive hole in our deficit\u2014and put Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security in grave danger.\r\n\"And that\u2019s just the start to the list of damages this horrific plan would do to families and the economy\u2014I could go on and\u00a0on.\u00a0\r\n\"But I want to spend just a minute focusing on one aspect of this Republican tax plan\u2014the truly devastating health care change that would raise families\u2019 premiums, cause millions of people to lose coverage, and create even more chaos and instability in health care markets.\u00a0\r\n\"Now, people have rejected every single Republican attempt to undermine their health care this year. So it\u2019s worth asking\u2014why are Republicans doing this again?\r\n\"The answer is simple: Republicans wanted to spend the savings from taking away millions of people\u2019s health care on tax cuts for those at the top.\r\n\"Here is what will happen if this is jammed through, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office: Premiums will be ten percent higher each year, thirteen million people will lose coverage, and markets will get even more unstable\u2014which experts have said could cause some communities to lose coverage options.\r\n\"And I want to be very clear: none of the bipartisan legislation being discussed would fix that.\r\n\"The health care stabilization bill I worked on with Chairman Alexander and Senator Collins\u2019 reinsurance bill are both good bills that would help push back against President Trump\u2019s sabotage of health care\u2014but they won\u2019t stop the premium increases, coverage losses, and chaos that the Republican tax bill would cause\u2014and that\u2019s assuming they could even pass through the Republican House.\r\n\"So I urge my Republican colleagues to take a step back here\u2014and stop this sham process while they still have a chance.\r\n\"Tax reform is an area where we can find bipartisan consensus\u2014where we can work together to help the middle class and call on the wealthy to pay their fair share.\r\n\"This plan doesn\u2019t do that\u2014it does the opposite\u2014but Democrats are at the table and ready to get to work if Republicans listen to their constituents, reverse course, and set aside this devastating plan.\r\n\"Thank you.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-plan-securing-overtime-for-shipyard-workers-on-assignment-to-japan-signed-into-law", "Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer Plan Securing Overtime for Shipyard Workers on Assignment to Japan Signed into Law \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC\u2014Overtime for shipyard workers on assignment\u00a0overseas will continue to be paid through September 30, 2019 thanks to an extension\u00a0secured by Representative Derek Kilmer. The congressman\u00a0worked to secure the extension as part of the National Defense Authorization Act\u00a0(NDAA), which was signed into law today.\r\n \u201cOur shipyard workers go all out for the country no matter where the job takes them.\u00a0If they work overtime, they deserve to be paid overtime no matter where they\u2019re clocked in,\u201d\u00a0Rep. Derek Kilmer said.\u00a0\u201cI have their back, and I\u2019m glad the country does too.\u201d\r\nThe NDAA also included a 2.4 percent raise for military service members, one of the largest raises in eight years.\u00a0The raise was included in the annual defense bill, HR 2810, which authorizes funding for the military in fiscal year 2018\r\nThe NDAA was signed into law today by President Donald Trump. The NDAA directs the Department of Defense on how to spend its money for the next fiscal year, but Congress still needs to pass an appropriations bill to fund these programs. Congress must pass that legislation before December 22nd, when the government\u2019s current spending bill is set to expire.\r\n\r\n\u201cI urge Congress to work together to pass a long-term budget and spending bill that funds the military and all of the other important things our government invests in before the end of the year,\u201d Rep. Derek Kilmer said.\r\n\r\nIn addition to the pay raise and Kilmer\u2019s overtime provision, the bill authorizes, among other things, investments in 13 new Navy ships, and $6 billion to in additional funds to be used for a missile defense program that is designed to counter North Korea, and to fix the destroyers USS Fitzgerald and USS John McCain, which were damaged earlier this year when they collided with ships in the Pacific in two separate incidents.\r\nThe collisions have been viewed by some as\u00a0a consequence of the deep cuts to the military\u2019s budget caused by sequestration. Without a long-term budget the Navy cannot develop a plan to regularly train sailors. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2236", "President Signs DelBene, Herrera Beutlers Fix for Child Abuse Survivors Into Law", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 President Trump today signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2018, which included part of Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Jaime Herrera Beutler\u2019s (WA-03) Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act (H.R. 1103), closing a legal loophole that denies justice for some survivors of child abuse.\r\n\u201cAnyone who falls victim to physical, sexual or emotional violence \u2014 particularly children \u2014 deserves the opportunity to seek justice, regardless of who abused them,\u201d DelBene said. \u201cAnd while we took an important step in closing this loophole to ensure some justice for all survivors of these vile and horrific abuses, I will not stop fighting until convicted child abusers \u2013 no matter who they are or who they worked for \u2013 pay the full restitution owed.\u201d\r\n\u201cI can\u2019t imagine the crippling trauma survivors of child abuse must endure. The least we can do for them is ensure the law is on their side and that they have the right to seek justice from their perpetrators,\u201d said Herrera Beutler. \u201cI recognize there is still tremendous work to be done in advocating for survivors, but having this bill signed into law today marks a significant milestone.\u201d\r\nDelBene heard firsthand from survivor Pennie Saum, who as a child suffered abuses at the hands of her father, an Army veteran. Her father was convicted and sentenced to 17 years in prison, and Pennie and her brother were awarded a civil judgment for $5 million in damages. However, because their father\u2019s primary source of income is military retirement pay, he was shielded from paying a cent of the restitution he owes his children. Because of DelBene\u2019s efforts, now 25 percent of offenders\u2019 wages can be garnished for restitution, but she will keep fighting until survivors of military child abuse receive full equality and justice under the law, just as other survivors abused by federal employees currently receive.\r\n\u201cWords cannot express how happy I am to see part of the Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act become law. It\u2019s been a long road. It\u2019s time that military retirees who abuse children be held accountable for their actions. Survivors of child sexual abuse, like myself, deserve to have their needs met after such horrific crimes, no matter what their abuser did for a living,\u201d Saum said. \u201cI will continue to fight for support and improvements to this law to assure survivors receive the restitution that they are owed and that abusers, no matter what career they had are held accountable for their actions.\u201d\r\nDelBene\u2019s bipartisan bill, which was introduced in February, closes a loophole in federal law that shields convicted child abusers from paying the restitution they owe, if their income comes from the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) \u2014 the agency responsible for military retirement pay. While Congress unanimously approved a law in 1994 allowing child abuse survivors to receive garnishment from most federal retirees\u2019 pay, it inadvertently excluded military retirees, whose pay is not disbursed by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).\r\nDuring NDAA negotiations, the U.S. Department of Defense insisted on capping the garnishment of survivors like Saum. Next year, DelBene will once again work with members of the House Armed Services Committee, such as Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02), to include all of the Child Abuse Accountability Enhancement Act in the defense spending bill.\r\nMore than 58,000 children in the United States are sexually abused each year, while nearly 120,000 children become victims of physical abuse, according to the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS).\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-further-understand-and-promote-development-of-artificial-intelligence-drive-economic-opportunity", "Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Bill to Further Understand and Promote Development of Artificial Intelligence, Drive Economic Opportunity \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Todd Young (R-IN), and Ed Markey (D-MA), along with Representatives John K. Delaney (D-MD) and Pete Olson (R-TX), introduced first-of-its-kind legislation that would promote an enabling environment for the continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The forward-looking bill, known as the Fundamentally Understanding the Usability and Realistic Evolution of Artificial Intelligence Act of 2017 \u2013 or FUTURE of AI Act \u2013 establishes a federal advisory committee to examine and wrestle with the economic opportunities and impacts emerging AI technologies will have in many aspects of American life.\r\nAI technologies are evolving in capability and application at a rapid clip. Yet, the United States currently has no federal policy towards AI and no part of the federal government has ownership of the advancement of this technology.\r\n\u201cWe expect that artificial intelligence will be an incredibly transformative force for growth and productivity.\u00a0 We need to be ready for it,\u201d said Senator Cantwell.\r\n\u201cArtificial Intelligence has the ability to drastically boost our economy,\u201d said Senator Young. \u201cAs Americans continue to interact with this technology every day, and as its capabilities expand, it\u2019s important that we study and prepare for AI\u2019s continued use in our society.\u201d\r\n\u201cWhile artificial intelligence holds the promise of providing goods and services more efficiently and effectively, increased automation has potentially broad negative impacts on our workforce and our privacy,\u201d said Senator Edward J. Markey. \u201cThis bill serves as an important step in bringing together all stakeholders to better understand how this new technology will impact our lives. I thank Senators Cantwell and Young, as well as Representatives Delaney and Olson, for their partnership on this important bipartisan issue.\u201d\u00a0\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s time to get proactive on artificial intelligence,\u201d said Congressman Delaney, co-chair of the House AI Caucus. \u201cAI is going to reshape our economy the way the steam engine, the transistor or the personal computer did and as a former entrepreneur, I believe the impact will be positive overall. Big disruptions also create new policy needs and we should start working now so that AI is harnessed in a way that society benefits, that businesses benefit and that workers benefit. This bill starts the process, by bringing together experts and policymakers. As co-chairs of the AI Caucus, Rep. Olson and I are shining a spotlight on these issues and this bipartisan bill makes sure that both Congress and the Executive Branch get engaged on this topic. I thank Senator Cantwell, Senator Young and Senator Markey for their leadership in the Senate.\u201d\r\nRep. Pete Olson said, \u201cArtificial Intelligence has the power to truly transform our society, and as policymakers, we must be forward thinking about its applications. The AI Advisory committee will help ensure that the federal government enables growth and advancement in this exciting field, while empowering Congress to address potential AI issues going forward. I thank my AI Caucus Co-Chair John Delaney and our Senate colleagues for this collaborative effort and look forward to moving this bill forward.\u201d\r\nThe FUTURE of AI Act names the Department of Commerce responsible for leading government policy on artificial intelligence and directs the Department to create an advisory committee tasked with submitting recommendations within 18 months on how the government and business can work together to address concerns in four key areas:\r\n \r\nPotential growth, restructuring, and other changes for the U.S. workforce that result from adoption of AI, including potential actions to train and skill workers for an AI workplace\r\nProtecting the privacy rights of individuals as AI continues to grow\r\nPromoting a climate of innovation to ensure global competitiveness for American companies developing AI technologies\r\nSupporting the development and application of unbiased AI\r\n \r\nThe AI advisory committee will pull from a wide array of sectors and perspectives. The committee will be comprised of civil liberties groups, labor groups, research institutions and universities, technology companies, the manufacturing sector, data scientists, and federal agency officials, among others.\r\n\"This is a very thoughtful and timely bill. Gaining the expertise to make wise and inclusive policy around artificial intelligence is absolutely critical. I applaud Senator Cantwell and her co-sponsors for their leadership,\u201d said Ryan Calo, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Law and the faculty co-director of the University of Washington Tech Policy Lab.\r\nThe section-by-section of the bill can be found HERE.\r\nThe full text of the bill can be found HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=1AF838BC-922C-44B2-BFD1-299D49A89896", "Senator Murray's Statement on Alabama Election Results: \"A Moment of Reflection for Republicans\" as Voters \"Loudly Reject\" Moore, President Trump", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\"I\u2019m pleased, and so relieved, to welcome Doug Jones to the Senate\u2014where I believe he\u2019ll have so much to contribute as we fight to grow the economy and increase opportunities for workers and middle class families across the country.\r\n\"Tonight, people across Alabama stood up and loudly rejected one of the most troubling and unfit candidates for Senate that I can recall\u2014and they just as loudly rejected efforts by President Trump and Republicans to put this person in office in spite of not only his deeply harmful and backwards beliefs, but the many women who have come forward with horrifying stories about how he assaulted them as children and teenagers.\r\n\"I hope tonight's results are a moment of reflection for Republicans. A man who wasn\u2019t allowed in a shopping mall because he was harassing young girls should not have even come close to representing families on the Senate floor. It\u2019s well past time for Republicans to start listening to women across the country and consider who they are standing with and who they are willing to support in the name of partisan politics and power.\r\n\"And finally, I am hoping that Republican leaders accept the will of the people of Alabama and halt their attempt to jam through massive tax cuts for the rich until Senator-elect Jones is seated.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=A5B47E73-1171-42DE-A978-DF2086BB563A", "In Rallying Call to Advocates, Senator Murray Highlights Urgent Need for Critical Investments in Child Care, Early Learning", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On the heels of new national report on rising child care costs, Senator Murray highlights her bill that would improve access to high-quality, affordable child care and early learning\r\nNew Report: Child care has become more unaffordable in the past year; represents one of the most significant budget items for families. \r\nICYMI: Senator Murray introduces bold, comprehensive child care and early learning bill to bring down costs of child care in Washington state and across the country\r\nSeattle Times: \u201cSen. Patty Murray wants to fix what experts call \u2018enormous inequalities\u2019 in child care\u201d\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 \u00a0Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate education committee, underlined the urgent need for increased investments in child care and early learning programs for low-income and middle class families, following the release of a new report highlighting the national trend of rising costs for child care. According to the new report from Child Care Aware\u00ae of America, child care has become more unaffordable in the past year, forcing many parents to pay more than they can afford for child care. In Washington state, the report found that single parents pay over half of their income for infant center care and over 90 percent of their income for center care for two children; the report also found that the annual cost of infant care in a center in Washington state was $13,742, more than the cost of tuition and fees at an in-state public college.\r\nSpeaking to hundreds of child care and early learning advocates during a briefing on the new report, Senator Murray outlined the current child care crisis in Washington state and nationwide, and urged participants to continue pushing for increased federal investments to make child care more affordable and higher quality for working families. In her remarks, Senator Murray also provided an update on her bill, the Child Care for Working Families Act, that would help working families afford child care, expand access to high-quality preschool for low-income and middle class families, and improve compensation and training for the child care workforce. Last October, Senator Murray unveiled the bill in Washington state and toured child care centers in Redmond, Tacoma, and Sequim to meet with parents, teachers, child care practitioners, and advocates about the challenges Washington state families face trying to access high-quality child care and early learning.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nFull text of Senator Murray\u2019s remarks:\r\nFirst I want to thank you all for your work fighting for high-quality affordable early learning and care in your communities and on a national level.\r\nI also want to thank Child Care Aware for releasing their report\u2026\r\n\u2026highlighting the child care crisis we are facing in our country, and what steps we should be taking to ensure no family has to pay more than they can afford on high-quality early learning and care.\r\nAs many of you know, I got my start in public service advocating for my own children\u2019s early childhood education back in Washington state.\r\nWhen my kids were very young, the State legislature wanted to shut down their preschool through budget cuts.\r\nSo I bundled my kids in the car and drove 100 miles down to Olympia to explain to my legislators why this preschool program was important\u2014and why it was worth saving.\r\nBut as I was making my case to a state Senator, he told me I couldn\u2019t make a different because I was \u201cjust a mom in tennis shoes.\u201d\r\nI was a mom in tennis shoes\u2014but I knew that shouldn\u2019t stop me from being able to make a difference.\r\nIt wasn\u2019t easy\u2014just like the work you do isn\u2019t easy\u2014but I called my friends, who called their friends\u2026\r\nAnd after months of showing up at the state legislature and making our voices heard, we were able to convince state legislators this program was worth saving.\r\nI went on to teach at that school\u2014and just like all of you\u2014I understand how important high-quality preschool and child care is for our youngest learners.\r\nWhen kids don\u2019t have access to quality early learning and care programs, it can impact them throughout their lives\u2026\r\nAnd it can have consequences for working families, the middle class, and for our economy.\r\nThe skyrocketing costs of child care today are forcing some parents to pay more than they make\u2026\r\nAnd others are even being forced to quit their jobs.\r\nEveryone on this call knows there are steps we can\u2014and need\u2014to take to address these critical issues and start building an economy that works for all families.\r\nSo I was proud to work with all of you and Representative Scott to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act earlier this year to start investing in our families, our teachers, and our youngest generation.\r\nOur plan would take on the rising costs of child care by making sure parents don\u2019t have to pay more than they can afford for quality care, increase access to high-quality preschool programs for low- and middle-income families, and support our nation\u2019s child care workforce with higher pay and better training\u2014so that they can help themselves and our next generation thrive.\r\nAnd shortly after introducing our bill, I had the opportunity to travel around my home state of Washington, in coordination with Child Care Aware of Washington, to hear from parents, teachers, and center directors on the challenges unique to their communities\u2026\r\n\u2026and what we can be doing to support their needs.\r\nI also saw the importance of ensuring parents are informed about their child care options through state and local child care resource and referral agencies.\u00a0\r\nThe work you do is so important, but we know it\u2019s going to take significantly more resources to build a sustainable child care system that works for families and local communities.\r\nIt\u2019s going to be a tough road to get this done, especially as we are seeing so many threats to middle class families.\r\nBut if we don\u2019t keep talking about these issues and fighting for what we believe in, we\u2019re never going to get there.\r\nAnd so I am asking you to keep up the good work fighting for children and families at the state, local, and the federal levels.\r\nWe need your voices to move this issue forward\u2026\r\nAnd to show there are parents, teachers, and advocates on the ground who believe investing in our next generation is one of the smartest things we can do.\r\nI will continue to be your partner and to advocate for improvements and investments for child care and early learning programs in Congress.\r\nThank you all again for your hard work.\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C0E2A6E5-240E-45D8-8090-A564FD78CF87", "Citing Trump Administrations Health Care Sabotage, Senator Murray Calls for Extended Open Enrollment Period", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Murray urges HHS, CMS to allow consumers to buy health care through January 2018\r\nRequest from Senator Murray follows months of sabotage by the Trump Administration, record level of sign-ups early in the enrollment period\r\nICYMI: As millions of people shop for health coverage, Senator Murray leads bipartisan group of senators in calling for vote on Murray-Alexander health care bill; urges Republican leaders to \u201cput patients over politics\u201d\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, today sent a letter to Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Eric Hargan and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma urging the Trump Administration to extend open enrollment for the individual insurance market from December 15 until January 31, 2018 to give patients and families in Washington state and nationwide more time to purchase health insurance. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), the ranking member on the Senate Finance Committee, joined Senator Murray in the letter.\r\n\u201cThe Administration\u2019s decision to depart from years of agency policy by ending open enrollment on December 15th is compounded by the many other efforts by this administration to destabilize the insurance market, making it likely that many consumers miss this deadline and forgo insurance next year\u2014all despite clear indications that consumers are highly interested in seeking coverage for 2018,\u201d\u00a0the senators wrote.\u00a0\u201cWe urge you to immediately extend open enrollment and to engage in concerted outreach and assistance efforts that help potential consumers obtain coverage.\u201d\u00a0\r\nSenator Murray has repeatedly urged the Trump Administration to stop sabotaging families\u2019 health care and instead work to improve care, bring down costs, and return stability to the markets. By shortening the open enrollment period, drastically cutting consumer outreach and navigator funding, and ending cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments, among other actions, the Trump Administration has undermined the individual insurance market that millions of people count on for health care.\r\nOpen enrollment in Washington state ends on January 15, 2018. For more information, visit wahealthplanfinder.org.\r\nThe full letter can be found here and below.\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Eric D. Hargan\r\nActing Secretary\r\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services\r\n200 Independence Avenue, SW\r\nWashington, DC 20201\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Seema Verma\r\nAdministrator\r\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services\r\n7500 Security Boulevard\r\nBaltimore, MD, 21244\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Acting Secretary Hargan and Administrator Verma,\r\n\r\nWe write to urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to extend Open Enrollment to the Health Insurance Marketplaces to January 31, 2018 to ensure that all potential consumers have a full and adequate opportunity to shop for and enroll in health insurance that meets their families\u2019 needs. The Administration\u2019s decision to depart from years of agency policy by ending Open Enrollment on December 15th is compounded by the many other efforts by this Administration to destabilize the insurance market, making it likely that many consumers miss this deadline and forgo insurance next year\u2014all despite clear indications that consumers are highly interested in seeking coverage for 2018. This shortened Open Enrollment period also leaves consumers currently enrolled in coverage without an opportunity to switch plans after being automatically enrolled, even though these plans may no longer be the best choice for their families. Given the Administration\u2019s decisions to dramatically roll back outreach efforts, cut Navigator funding, and halt cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments, which had far-reaching implications on the cost of coverage, providing interested consumers with enough time to learn about and find coverage in the Marketplaces is more critical than ever.\u00a0\r\nThe Marketplaces help consumers compare and obtain comprehensive and affordable private insurance subject to robust consumer protections. The Marketplaces also allow consumers to determine their eligibility for financial assistance programs, which today help over 80 percent of those enrolled afford premiums and out-of-pocket costs. During Open Enrollment for the 2017 plan year, approximately 12.2 million consumers selected or automatically re-enrolled in health insurance, 10 million of whom received financial assistance and three million of whom were new to the Marketplaces.\r\nThe Marketplaces also provide critical tools for those previously enrolled to shop around and ensure their insurance plans continue to meet their needs. During previous Open Enrollment periods, consumers who were automatically re-enrolled on December 16th had an additional six weeks to change plans if the plan in which they were automatically enrolled no longer provided the greatest benefit to their families. This year, steps taken by the Administration have changed the coverage landscape dramatically, making it more likely that consumers are automatically re-enrolled in plans that differ from their previous year\u2019s coverage. Moreover, the Administration\u2019s decision to stop paying CSRs induced market distortions that may make choosing the right plan even harder for working families, since gold coverage is now cheaper than silver coverage in many parts of the country. Consumers deserve at least the same amount of time as in previous years to make this significant choice about their families\u2019 health coverage.\r\nAdding insult to injury, this Administration decided to slash funding for consumer outreach and assistance, even though these efforts are critical to helping families understand their changing coverage options. For 2018 Open Enrollment, HHS announced it would radically cut outreach funding by 90 percent and roll back over 40 percent of funds for the Navigator program. Since the beginning of the Open Enrollment period, HHS has done virtually nothing to promote enrollment and notify consumers about this severe cut to Open Enrollment\u2019s timeline or the vast differences from the previous year\u2019s plan offerings.\r\nDespite the Administration\u2019s efforts, consumers have made clear their demand for affordable, comprehensive coverage. On a week-by-week basis, sign-ups for coverage through HealthCare.gov are up over 22 percent from where they were at this point last year. As a percentage of the total open enrollment period remaining, however, millions fewer consumers have signed up for plans. By cutting Open Enrollment to just six weeks, HHS has left consumers with less time to shop for coverage, sign up for plans, and obtain needed financial assistance, all of which may result in substantially fewer people with coverage. Enrollment has continued through January for four years, so many consumers may miss the upcoming December deadline\u2014especially given HHS\u2019s failure to engage in consumer outreach and education. In fact, estimates suggest that ending Open Enrollment this week will cause over one million fewer individuals to find coverage for next year.\r\nPrematurely closing enrollment may be particularly devastating for consumers with pre-existing conditions who rely on insurance to afford the services they need. This truncated enrollment window could force those with pre-existing conditions to decide between forgoing treatment and taking on crippling medical debt. Further, by shortening the window and potentially failing to capture younger and healthier consumers who in past years enrolled at the end of Open Enrollment, those who obtain or renew coverage by December 15th may face higher costs as a result of an older and sicker population in the Marketplaces. Thus, ending Open Enrollment this week threatens to limit enrollment and drive up the cost of coverage.\r\nEnsuring consumers have the opportunity to find the coverage they need is essential to protecting the health and financial security of families across the country. We urge you to immediately extend Open Enrollment and to engage in concerted outreach and assistance efforts that help potential consumers obtain coverage. To do otherwise poses further risks to the continued stability of the individual marketplace and jeopardizes access to affordable, comprehensive insurance for all.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/reps-kilmer-kustoff-pass-bill-to-protect-religious-institutions", "Reps. Kilmer, Kustoff Pass Bill to Protect Religious Institutions", "2017-12-11", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.17\n\t\t\t Reps. Kilmer, Kustoff Pass Bill to Protect Religious Institutions \n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and\u00a0David Kustoff (R-TN) today applauded House passage of their bill, the\u00a0Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act of 2017.\u00a0This strong\u00a0bipartisan legislation will increase the federal penalties for bomb threats and other credible threats of violence against religious institutions.\r\nCongressman Derek Kilmer (D-WA):\u00a0\u201cAcross our country, too many people have been subjected to hate, violence and threats because of the religion they practice. People who have come to a religious community center to take a class, exercise or support their neighbors have faced bomb threats and violence.\u00a0With this bill, our government is saying with one voice: \u2018Enough is enough.\u2019\u201d\r\nCongressman David Kustoff (R-TN):\u00a0\u201cThe dramatic rise in threats against religious institutions is deeply disturbing and makes it clear that existing federal laws do not suitably deter these acts of hate. We must stand united against acts of hate and protect the rights of all Americans to worship freely and without fear. I am proud that our bipartisan bill today passed in the House. I look forward to the Senate\u2019s consideration, so we can send this important legislation to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\r\nJudiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA):\u00a0\u201cFreedom in the exercise of religion is a fundamental right that our founding fathers chose to place as the first recognized right in our Bill of Rights.\u00a0It is as important to protect these rights today.\u00a0 Sadly, we have witnessed many threats and acts of violence against religious institutions and centers and we must ensure our laws appropriately punish those seeking to intimidate people of faith.\u00a0The Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act strengthens prosecutorial tools to deter acts of hate and violence toward religious institutions so that freedom of religion continues to flourish in America. I thank Congressman Kustoff for his hard work on this bipartisan bill and applaud the House for quickly passing it.\u201d\r\nWilliam Daroff, the Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Director of the Washington Office of the Jewish Federations of North America said: \u201cThe Jewish Federations of North America applauds Congress for passing the Combating Anti-Semitism Act of 2017 (H.R. 1730). The rise of anti-Semitism is an existential threat to the Jewish community and this trend is not abating. We are grateful to Representatives David Kustoff and Derek Kilmer for their bi-partisan leadership in sponsoring this legislation, which will help to deter the wave of threats targeting Jewish Community Centers and other religious institutions across the country, and to stand united against religious intolerance.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\r\nIn 2017 alone, more than\u00a0160 bomb threats and other threats of violence have been made against Jewish Community Centers (JCCs) across America.\u00a0In addition to the fear and terror inflicted upon these religious institutions after a threat, there are tangible ramifications for the centers. Many places of worship are forced to temporarily close their doors as a result of these threats, and families who rely on the center\u2019s services, such as school and early-childhood education programs, have been forced to choose between their safety and their faith community.\u00a0\r\nThis bipartisan legislation would amend the Church Arson Prevention Act (18 U.S.C. \u00a7 247) to ensure that individuals who make bomb threats and other credible threats of violence against community religious centers \u2013based on the religious nature of that center will now carry a penalty of up to 3 years of imprisonment if any violations of the statute results in the damage or destruction to religious property.\r\nThe Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act of 2017 has broad, bipartisan support and was originally co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Ted Poe (R-TX), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Joseph P. Kennedy, III (D-MA).\u00a0The bill was\u00a0cosponsored\u00a0by an additional 40 bipartisan members.\u00a0\r\nClick\u00a0here\u00a0for bill text. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2235", "Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: Abandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules", "2017-12-09", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SEATTLE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commissioner Ajit Pai urging him to do his job and drop his misguided attempt at repealing net neutrality rules.\r\n\u201cUndoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC\u2019s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks,\u201d said Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene. \u201cThe future of the internet is at risk. The FCC\u2019s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.\u201d\r\nSen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene are particularly concerned about how Washington\u2019s economy will be affected if Pai follows through on his goals to shackle the free and open internet. A quarter of a million jobs and 13 percent of the state\u2019s economy are dependent on a robust, vibrant Internet economy.\u00a0\r\nMore than 400,000 Washingtonians, recognizing the importance of net neutrality to Washington state\u2019s economy, have filed comments with the FCC concerning the plan.\r\n\u201cWeakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. On behalf of all Washingtonians and consumers and innovators that rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office,\u201d the members of Congress continued.\r\nSen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene issued their appeal with tech leaders at Seattle\u2019s Galvanize, a Seattle coworking space featuring a mix of entrepreneurs, programmers, data scientists, and others who thrive on the free and open internet.\r\nNet neutrality protections make sure we have an open and free internet and prohibit cable companies and service providers from slowing down or blocking content, applications or websites.\r\nThe full letter to Chairman Pai is below:\r\nDear Chairman Pai:\r\nWe write to urge you to abandon your ill-conceived and rash plan to dismantle the strong and robust net neutrality rules that have fueled the growth of our $1 trillion internet economy. The internet economy is now over 7% of US GDP and employs almost 7 million people.\r\nMoreover, the internet economy has grown faster than any other sector in the U.S., having boosted employment while many other industries in the U.S. were shedding jobs in the last economic downturn. It is undisputed that our strong, robust open internet drove this tremendous economic growth.\r\nThe mission of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is to promote the use and deployment of communications in the public interest, and the job of the FCC Chairman is to make sure that mission is being carried out. Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC\u2019s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks.\r\nWeakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. The internet economy is responsible for 13% of Washington state\u2019s economic output. A quarter of a million jobs in Washington state depend on the continued good health and vibrancy of our internet economy.\r\nThe \u201cApp Economy,\u201d which consists of everybody who makes money and has a job thanks to mobile apps powered by an open internet, is another example of the power of the internet economy made possible by the existing net neutrality rules. Today, 1.7 million Americans have jobs because of the App Economy.\u00a0 Nearly 92,000 of those jobs are in Washington state.\r\nThe FCC\u2019s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.\u00a0\r\nOn behalf of all Washingtonians and the consumers and innovators who rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office.\r\nSincerely,\r\nSenator Maria Cantwell\r\nCongresswoman Suzan DelBene\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-delbene-to-fcc-chairman-abandon-your-ill-conceived-and-rash-plan-to-dismantle-the-strong-and-robust-net-neutrality-rules-", "Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: \u201cAbandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules\u201d", "2017-12-09", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.09.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, DelBene to FCC Chairman: \u201cAbandon Your Ill-Conceived & Rash Plan to Dismantle the Strong and Robust Net Neutrality Rules\u201d  \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t In Seattle, Cantwell and DelBene announce their latest push to save the free and open internet with tech leaders\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t Seattle, WA \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commissioner Ajit Pai urging him to do his job and drop his misguided attempt at repealing net neutrality rules.\r\n\u201cUndoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC\u2019s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks,\u201d said Sen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene. \u201cThe future of the internet is at risk. The FCC\u2019s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.\u201d\r\nSen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene are particularly concerned about how Washington\u2019s economy will be affected if Pai follows through on his goals to shackle the free and open internet. A quarter of a million jobs and 13% of the state\u2019s economy are dependent on a robust, vibrant Internet economy.\u00a0\r\nOver 400,000 Washingtonians, recognizing the importance of net neutrality to Washington state\u2019s economy, have filed comments with the FCC concerning the plan.\r\n\u201cWeakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. On behalf of all Washingtonians and consumers and innovators that rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office,\u201d the members of Congress continued.\r\nSen. Cantwell and Rep. DelBene issued their appeal with tech leaders at Seattle\u2019s Galvanize, a Seattle coworking space featuring a mix of entrepreneurs, programmers, data scientists, and others who thrive on the free and open internet.\r\nNet neutrality protections make sure we have an open and free internet and prohibit cable companies and service providers from slowing down or blocking content, applications or websites.\r\nThe full letter to Chairman Pai is below.\r\nDear Chairman Pai:\r\nWe write to urge you to abandon your ill-conceived and rash plan to dismantle the strong and robust net neutrality rules that have fueled the growth of our $1 trillion internet economy. The internet economy is now over 7% of US GDP and employs almost 7 million people.\r\nMoreover, the internet economy has grown faster than any other sector in the U.S., having boosted employment while many other industries in the U.S. were shedding jobs in the last economic downturn. It is undisputed that our strong, robust open internet drove this tremendous economic growth.\r\nThe mission of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is to promote the use and deployment of communications in the public interest, and the job of the FCC Chairman is to make sure that mission is being carried out. Undoing the existing strong net neutrality rules will harm our economy and is the exact opposite of the FCC\u2019s mission to protect the public interest and promote access to networks.\r\nWeakening the internet economy will be particularly harmful to the economy of Washington state. The internet economy is responsible for 13% of Washington state\u2019s economic output. A quarter of a million jobs in Washington state depend on the continued good health and vibrancy of our internet economy.\r\nThe \u201cApp Economy,\u201d which consists of everybody who makes money and has a job thanks to mobile apps powered by an open internet, is another example of the power of the internet economy made possible by the existing net neutrality rules. Today, 1.7 million Americans have jobs because of the App Economy.\u00a0 Nearly 92,000 of those jobs are in Washington state.\r\nThe FCC\u2019s proper stewardship of our communications networks is more important than ever for continued job growth stemming from the booming internet economy.\u00a0\r\nOn behalf of all Washingtonians and the consumers and innovators who rely on toll free access to a free and open internet, we strongly urge you to make the right decision and stand up for the consumers you committed to protect when you took your oath of office.\r\nSincerely,\r\nSenator Maria Cantwell  Congresswoman Suzan DelBene\r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-washington-national-guard-and-port-angeles-leaders-applaud-faas-decision-to-fully-fund-vital-port-angeles-runway-", "Kilmer, Washington National Guard and Port Angeles Leaders Applaud FAA\u2019s Decision to Fully Fund Vital Port Angeles Runway", "2017-12-08", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.08.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer, Washington National Guard and Port Angeles Leaders Applaud FAA\u2019s Decision to Fully Fund Vital Port Angeles Runway  \n\t\t\tPORT ANGELES, Wash.\u2014 After listening to the concerns of Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA), the state\u2019s emergency managers, and the Port of Port Angeles\u2019s Commissioners, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued a final decision to continue funding to maintain the current runway at the William R. Fairchild International Airport. The FAA had previously considered reducing this funding, which would have left the Port with two bad options: either reduce the airport\u2019s 5,000-foot runway to 3,850 feet, or pay the bill to maintain the other 1,150 feet using only local funds, a potentially prohibitively-expensive cost.\r\n\u201cIn rural regions like ours, peace of mind comes by knowing that the government has the infrastructure to get help to us quickly in the event of a disaster. I applaud the FAA for doing the right thing and funding the full runway in Port Angeles,\u201d Rep. Derek Kilmer said. \u201cKeeping the runway fully-funded will not only give emergency responders a vital lifeline to our region in an emergency, but also drive economic growth that will sustain skilled jobs in our region.\u201d\r\n\r\nPort Angeles officials and Rep. Kilmer worked with leaders of the state\u2019s emergency response community to explain to the FAA the unique importance of Fairchild\u2019s runway for both medical emergencies and emergency response. The FAA considered reducing the runway length it was willing to fund using the Airport Improvement Program. The AIP funds the planning and development of public-use airports. According to the Washington Emergency Plan and Federal Emergency Management Agency, Fairchild International Airport is a piece of critical infrastructure vital to the government\u2019s response to wildfires and earthquakes.\r\nPort Commission President Colleen McAleer said: \u201cThe Port of Port Angeles appreciates the FAA\u2019s decision and the efforts of Congressman Kilmer, who listened to the community and conveyed its concerns. Our airport is vital to the safety and well-being of all county residents and visitors, and we look forward to working with the FAA and Representative Kilmer to protect this important regional asset into the future.\u201d\u00a0\r\nMajor General Bret Daugherty, the Adjutant General and Commander of the Washington National Guard said: \"During a Cascadia Subduction Zone event, the Fairchild Airport in Port Angeles will be a crucial asset.\u00a0 A five-thousand foot runway at Fairchild will enable large aircraft to bring life-saving supplies and sustainment to the Olympic Peninsula and the communities along the Strait of Juan de Fuca.\"\r\nPenelope Linterman, an Emergency Management Program Coordinator with the Clallam County Sheriff\u2019s Office said: \u201cthe FAA decision to maintain our present runway\u2019s length at five thousand feet continues to allow large aircraft to land and takeoff here and will supply emergency essentials and personnel during a catastrophic disaster. This will save lives by improving the local response time during the event. It will also enable large aircraft traveling from the East or Midwest to land directly in Port Angeles without diverting to Central Washington or to an airport in the I-5 corridor.\u00a0 That deconflicts the airspace, saves time and allows direct evacuation of a limited number of critically wounded out of the area to receive prompt care.\u201d\r\nIn addition to raising the issue with the FAA, Rep. Derek Kilmer drafted legislation to reform the Airport Improvement Program to explicitly direct the\u00a0FAA to consider how downsizing runways would affect the emergency response plan in the region where the airport is located. Kilmer is continuing to pursue a policy remedy that would prevent other rural communities from facing the same hard choices Port Angeles was given, but still gives the FAA the flexibility to determine the most effective use of the Airport Improvement Program\u2019s funding.\r\nIn the past, FAA officials have told other communities that runways shorter than 5,000 feet are not worth the federal government\u2019s support, meaning Port Angeles could have seen diminished federal support for the airport over time if it couldn\u2019t afford the repairs. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=079566E6-A206-4B0E-985C-6FCF13FD602D", "Ahead of the Start of Negotiations on Republican Tax Plan, Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Open & Transparent Process", "2017-12-08", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In new letter, signed by the seven Senate Democrats named to conference committee, Senators demand at least three public meetings, the opportunity to offer amendments, & complete expert analysis on new bill\u2019s economic impact before conference report is finalized\r\nNeither the House Ways and Means Committee nor the Senate Finance Committee held any public hearings regarding the bills that were reported out or debated in their respective chambers \u2013 Senate Dems urge GOP to provide more transparency as House & Senate debate final bill\u00a0\r\nSenate Dems: a bill that would have such an enormous impact on the economy deserves complete analysis, public debate, & an open process\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 \u00a0In a new letter, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, today joined Senate Democrats who will serve as conferees on the committee to negotiate the GOP\u2019s tax bill to urge their fellow Republican conferees to conduct the conference in an open and transparent manner. The Senators said transparency has been missing from the legislative process thus far, as neither the House Ways and Means Committee nor the Senate Finance Committee have held any public hearings regarding the bills that were ultimately reported out and debated in their respective chambers. The Senators said a bill that would have such an enormous impact on the American economy deserves to see the light of day. The Senators therefore demanded the conference conduct at least three open public meetings, that all members on the committee be given a full opportunity to offer amendments and to secure roll call votes on all amendments, and that a final conference report, including analyses from tax experts at the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), be approved and made public.\r\n\r\nIn addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the Democrats who penned this letter include Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and Tom Carper (D-DE).\r\n\r\nA copy of their letter appears below:\r\n\r\nDear Fellow Conferees,\r\n\r\nWe write to you regarding our upcoming negotiations and work on H.R. 1, the reconciliation vehicle for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\u00a0 We request that the conference be conducted with a level of transparency and consideration commensurate with the enormous scope and implications of this bill, which has been missing from the legislative process thus far.\u00a0 Specifically, there should be several public conference meetings held in the open, with meaningful opportunity for public input and with the benefit of a complete analysis by Congress's nonpartisan budget experts.\r\n\r\nForemost, it is critical that this process and all negotiations be done publicly, in full view of the American people.\u00a0 Neither the Ways and Means Committee nor the Finance Committee held any public hearings regarding the bills that were ultimately reported out and debated in their respective chambers.\u00a0 Debating these crucial topics out in the open - rather than behind closed doors - would allow the American people the ability to stay informed about changes to the tax code that will have a significant impact on many facets of their lives.\u00a0 Specifically, we request that the conference conduct at least three open public meetings, and that all members of the conference be given a full opportunity at such meetings to offer amendments and to secure roll call votes on all amendments, as well as on final approval of the conference report.\u00a0 It would be outrageous if legislation of this magnitude is again put together in secret, without the public's knowledge or input.\u00a0\r\n\r\nWe also believe that before the conference report is finalized, conferees and the public should have a complete analysis of the proposed language from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT).\u00a0 Such an analysis should include a standard score, so we understand the costs of its provisions and their impact on the budget deficit.\u00a0 It also should evaluate the legislation's macroeconomic effects, so we know whether there is any truth to claims that the legislation \"pays for itself.\"\u00a0 Additionally, since the Congressional Budget Office already estimated that this legislation would result in tens of millions of patients losing health care coverage and substantial premium increases, the conference should also wait for an analysis of its impact on the health care system.\u00a0 Finally, the analysis should include a complete description of the bill's distributional effects, including an analysis that illustrates what percentage of taxpayers will see a tax increase or tax decrease and the magnitude of the change.\u00a0\u00a0 It is essential that members have a full and non-partisan understanding of the legislation being presented, before any member is compelled to vote on a conference report.\r\n\r\nLast week, the Senate passed a bill rife with hand-written edits in the margins in the middle of the night.\u00a0 Predictably, this rush to passage produced mistakes amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars that conferees will now have to fix and may have led to new loopholes ripe for exploitation.\u00a0 Americans cannot risk their financial futures and our economy to such haphazard and slapdash legislating.\r\n\r\nWe know that many of us disagree about the merits of policies that would lead to tax increases on the middle class, tax breaks for large corporations and the very wealthy, and the despoiling of a pristine wilderness refuge.\u00a0 But we should all agree that changes of this scale should be done the right way, with a full opportunity for open, public dialogue, and complete information from non-partisan analysts about the bill's effects.\r\n\r\nThank you for your consideration of our requests.\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\n\u00a0\r\nU.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR)\r\nU.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT)\r\nU.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA)\r\nU.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)\r\nU.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)\r\nU.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ)\r\nU.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-DE)", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=382A8C81-35FC-465F-8A7D-E4753BD4D559", "Senator Murrays Statement on Key Announcement on Columbia River Treaty Negotiations", "2017-12-08", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement in response to news that the United States and Canada will begin negotiations in early 2018 to modernize the Columbia River Treaty.\r\n\u201cThe Columbia River Treaty is of immense importance to the economy, environment, and culture of Washington state and the Pacific Northwest. It is clear the Columbia River Treaty in its current form needs to be updated to meet the modern-day issues facing the Columbia River Basin, the region, and the nation. The outcome of pending negotiations will have major impacts far into the future for families in my home state and beyond. I welcome the news that the United States and Canada will begin negotiations, and I support these critical talks moving forward in an efficient, constructive manner that benefits every party involved.\u201c\r\nTo read more about the Columbia River Treaty, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=C5D663A9-01F2-46E0-976C-0EE22E890DAE", "VETERANS: In New Letter, Senator Murray Urges VA Secretary to Immediately Clarify Future of Homeless Veteran Program", "2017-12-08", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On December 1st, VA reportedly announced plans to move forward with repurposing essential funds for HUD-VASH program\u00a0\r\nPrior to this, a bipartisan group of senators had urged VA not to take this step\u00a0\r\nSenator Murray: By removing these services, VA would endanger \u201cone of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness\u201d\r\n\r\nSenator Murray urges course correction and increased transparency; in absence of either, Senator Murray to seek to restrict VA\u2019s authority to reprogram funding\u00a0\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of both the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin to immediately clarify his recent statement regarding plans to strip away essential funds for supportive services for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program. Known as HUD-VASH, the program helps veterans across the country by providing housing vouchers that combine rental assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since 2008, when Senator Murray helped restart HUD-VASH, the program has helped more than 100,000 homeless veterans.\r\n\r\n\u201cThe case management provided by VA is essential to assisting these veterans in navigating the complex housing market and coordinating access to clinical care and employment assistance,\u201d Senator Murray wrote in the letter. \u201cWithout the invaluable support provided by VA case managers, many veterans may find themselves forced to sleep on the streets. By removing these services, the Department would gut the capacity and efficacy of one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness.\u201d\r\n\r\nSenator Murray continued: \u201cIf the Department does not immediately fulfill the requests of that letter and begin operating with more transparency, I will seek dramatic restrictions on the authority Congress grants the Department to reprogram its funding in order to ensure the federal government is always acting in the best interests of veterans.\u201d\r\n\r\nSenator Murray has long been focused on finding legislative solutions to end homelessness among military veterans, which has gotten worse in recent years. for According to a new homeless assessment report from HUD, there are currently more than 40,000 veterans experiencing homelessness in the U.S., and the number of homeless veterans has increased from 2016, the first such increase since 2010. In Washington state, the number of veterans experiencing homelessness has increased 41 percent compared to 2016. After reports surfaced last month that VA was considering reallocating HUD-VASH funds for general purpose use, Senator Murray joined her colleagues on the Senate appropriations subcommittee in a letter to Secretary Shulikn urging him not to move forward with the change in policy. Following up on this request, in her new letter Senator Murray demands that Secretary Shulkin reverse his decision to direct money away from HUD-VASH and to work with Congress to fully fund and implement the program.\r\n\r\nRead the full letter below or here.\r\n\r\nDecember 8, 2017\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable David J. Shulkin, M.D.\r\nSecretary of Veterans Affairs\r\n810 Vermont Avenue, Northwest\r\nWashington, DC 20420\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Secretary Shulkin:\r\n\r\nI write to you today to express my shock and disappointment at the direction you and your senior team initially chose for repurposing essential funding within the Department of Veterans Affairs (the Department). According to media reports and the statements of participants of a December 1 phone call with the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans, the Department announced a decision to move forward with a proposal that would strip essential funds for supportive services for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program, known as HUD-VASH. I also write to ask you to explain the comments you have made regarding that decision and to clarify to all regional Department employees that there is no change in policy.\r\n\r\nOnly a month ago, after first hearing accounts of this impending change, I joined my colleagues on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies in a letter to you expressing our serious concern over the Department\u2019s rumored plan to convert a portion of Specific Purpose funds to General Purpose funds. The members of our Subcommittee urged you not to move forward with this plan until better understanding could be gained as to the intention and consequence of this action. I am gravely concerned that the Department appears not only to have ignored our request, but chose to proceed forward with this harmful plan even as we see the number of homeless veterans in our country rising.\r\n\r\nDespite the significant strides we have made toward addressing the problem of homelessness amongst veterans, there is still a need to do so much more. On the same day your decision was reported, the release of the 2017 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress from the Department of Housing and Urban Development showed that the number of homeless veterans has increased from 2016, the first such increase since 2010. This report states that there are currently more than 40,000 veterans experiencing homelessness in our country. In my own home state of Washington, I was extremely troubled to see that there was a 41 percent increase in the number of veterans experiencing homelessness compared to 2016. I ask that you provide me with a comprehensive assessment of the reasons for this increase in my state, especially whether there have been any changes or reductions in Department services for homeless veterans in Washington.\r\n\r\nIn 2008, during my time as the chair of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, I worked to restart the HUD-VASH program because I, like many Americans, know that this country has a responsibility to care for the brave men and women who served our country. Case management and supportive services coordinated and provided by the Department are a vital component of the HUD-VASH program\u2019s success. The more than 100,000 homeless veterans who have been served by this program include some of our nation\u2019s most vulnerable populations, including the chronically ill, mentally ill, and those struggling with substance abuse. Earlier this year, the Trump Administration put this program at risk when it proposed a 13 percent cut to the Department\u2019s partner agency in the program, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, in the President\u2019s budget request.\r\n\r\nThat attempt to undermine HUD-VASH was unacceptable, and this attempt is as well. The case management provided by VA is essential to assisting these veterans in navigating the complex housing market and coordinating access to clinical care and employment assistance. Without the invaluable support provided by VA case managers, many veterans may find themselves forced to sleep on the streets. By removing these services, the Department would gut the capacity and efficacy of one of the best tools it has in the fight to end veteran homelessness.\r\n\r\nI echo the calls from the Subcommittee\u2019s previous letter that you unequivocally reverse this action as I consider your public statement and assertions in the wake of the public outrage regarding your initial course of action to be perplexing. On December 6, 2017, the Department issued a press release quoting you as saying that \u201cthere will be absolutely no change in the funding to support our homeless programs,\u201d which seemed to be a welcome reversal of the change. Yet you continued on to say that homeless program funding will not be shifted to the Choice program, which is language that you have also included in other correspondence. I am unaware of any assertion that Choice was in any way involved with the Department\u2019s initial decision, causing me to question whether this extraneous statement is an attempt to provide the Department flexibility to shift homeless money to non-Choice programs. I trust that is not the case, as such a move would greatly compound the seriousness of the current situation.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, it is essential that our veterans, Congress, and stakeholders providing veterans with housing and supportive services have a full opportunity to review and provide advice to any Departmental proposal for funding reallocations. I ask again that you provide information on the types of programs designated as \u201cSecretarial priorities\u201d that will receive the five percent funding shift from each VISN.\u00a0 Additionally, a funding allocation plan should be submitted to the Subcommittee to allow for informed decision making on appropriations for these programs in the future. If the Department does not immediately fulfill the requests of that letter and begin operating with more transparency, I will seek dramatic restrictions on the authority Congress grants the Department to reprogram its funding in order to ensure the federal government is always acting in the best interests of veterans\r\n\r\nFinally, the haphazard formulation of the now-abandoned policy change, combined with its sudden and clumsy announcement and near-immediate retraction, has caused substantial concern and confusion among providers. It is likely that this confusion extends to Department employees working in the field. It is important that you clearly communicate to all regional Department employees that they should not be engaging in the reallocation of any Specific Purpose funds for homelessness services.\r\n\r\nAt a recent event in Washington, D.C., you and other members of the Trump Administration toured an apartment building that utilizes the HUD-VASH program and now houses over 60 veterans. During that visit you stated your commitment, \u201cto continue our efforts until we get every veteran off the streets to find a home such as this.\u201d I expect the Department\u2019s actions to mirror that commitment. I look forward to your response.\r\n\u00a0\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-introduces-solution-to-shield-wa-fishermen-from-unnecessary-costs-delays", "Cantwell Introduces Solution to Shield WA Fishermen from Unnecessary Costs, Delays", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Introduces Solution to Shield WA Fishermen from Unnecessary Costs, Delays \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t Cantwell\u2019s legislation provides regulatory relief for smaller vessels like crab and salmon boats\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) introduced the Fishing and Small Vessel Relief Act (S.2194) \u00a0to extend protections for fishermen and small vessel owners from adhering to costly requirements that do not tangibly protect or improve water quality for vessels of their size. An EPA study found that incidental discharges from these small vessels do not generate a significant threat to our waters.\r\nThe bill will extend a current moratorium that exempts fishing vessels and vessels under 79 feet from incidental discharge permitting requirements mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These vessels have been continuously exempt since 2008 under a temporary moratorium as they do not pose a serious environmental risk.\r\n\u201cFishermen are key drivers of Washington state\u2019s growing economy. We need their boats out fishing, not bogged down by regulations meant for large vessels like oil tankers,\u201d said Cantwell.\r\nCantwell\u2019s science-based legislation brings stability to small vessel owners who have been at unease due to an impending December 18th expiration of the current moratorium. More than 115,000 small vessels nation-wide would receive relief under the Cantwell legislation. Commercial fishing boats make up the bulk of the protected vessels, but many research vessels, tour boats, tugboats, towboats, and offshore supply boats would also qualify.\r\nThe EPA\u2019s vessel incidental discharge permitting requirements are intended to prevent water pollution and the spread of invasive species through release of bilge water, ballast, and other discharges. These regulations are critical to safeguard the environment from large vessels, who are more likely to carry pollutants and run a greater risk of introducing invasive species. Vessel discharge from smaller vessels does not pose a serious environmental risk.\r\nA copy of the bill can be found HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-murray-join-bipartisan-group-urging-extension-of-secure-rural-schools-program-", "Senators Cantwell, Murray Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.17\n    \t\t\t Senators Cantwell, Murray Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of 32 senators in sending a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), urging them to include a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Program in any end-of-year legislation. SRS supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, emergency services, and many other essential county services for more than 775 counties across the country.\r\nThe SRS program expired on September 30, 2015, and it has not been reauthorized for FY16 or beyond. Forest counties and schools received their last authorized SRS payment in 2016. Without SRS, existing revenue-sharing payments are not sufficient to support critical services these counties must provide.\r\n\u201cThe SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies,\u201d Senators Cantwell and Murray wrote. \u201cIn the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.\u201d\r\nIn October, Senators Cantwell and Murray pushed for a two-year reauthorization of SRS. In 2016, under SRS, Forest Service payments to Washington counties totaled more than $17.3 million. This year, without SRS funding in place, Forest Service payments to Washington counties have totaled just $2.3 million.\r\nIn addition to Senators Cantwell and Murray, senators who signed the letter include: Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Robert P. Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Al Franken (D-MN), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Margaret Wood Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Dean Heller (R-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joe Manchin III (D-WV), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jeffery A. Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Gary Peters (D-MI), James E. Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).\r\nThe full letter is below:\r\n\r\nDecember 6, 2017\r\nDear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer:\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0We write to strongly urge the inclusion of at least a two-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which enjoys tremendous bipartisan support, in any end-of-the-year legislation.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0On U.S. Forest Service land, the federal government has historically shared 25 percent of timber harvest revenues with counties to compensate for federal ownership. On certain land managed by the Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management shares 50 percent of the revenue from federal timber sales with counties. Due to declining timber harvests, a critical source of funding for rural counties, sometimes referred to as \u201cforest counties,\u201d has seen significant decreases, often decimating impacted county budgets.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0In 2000, Congress passed SRS with broad bipartisan support as a fiscal solution to help fund essential services resulting from the reduced revenue-sharing receipts. Since then, SRS has been a critical lifeline for over 775 counties in over 40 states across the country by helping fund more than 4,400 schools, road maintenance, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations.\u00a0 However, SRS authorization lapsed last year and rural counties are now back to simply receiving the timber revenue-sharing receipts. These receipts are up to 80 percent less than what forest counties received under SRS.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0We are now witnessing firsthand the hardships rural counties face as a result of SRS authorization lapsing. Without the certainty of SRS payments, schools, libraries, and jails are closing. Schools that remain open will see a reduction of teachers. Roads go unpaved and become unsafe. Mental and physical health services are scaled back or even ended. Fewer and fewer law enforcement officers are forced to patrol larger and larger areas.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Sincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=14066253-30B9-45A4-896A-47EFEE373FFE", "Senator Murray to Dreamers: We stand with you, and we will not stop until we get this across the finish line", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In floor speech, Sen. Murray urges Republicans to reject President Trump\u2019s reckless agenda and instead support the bipartisan DREAM Act\r\nPresident Trump announced the end of the DACA program, leaving the futures of 800,000 young men and women in doubt unless Congress acts\r\n***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAY\u2019S FLOOR SPEECH HERE***\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, in a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) called on Senate Republicans to support immediate passage of the bipartisan DREAM Act. The lives of 800,000 men and women have been in limbo since September, when President Trump announced the end of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA. Sen. Murray highlighted the stories of three DACA recipients from Washington state\u2014a health professional, a WSU student, and a business owner\u2014who attribute their success to the 2012 program. \r\nRead more about the DREAM Act of 2017 here. \r\nKey Excepts of Senator Murray\u2019s floor speech, as prepared for delivery:\r\n\u201cImagine waking up day after day without any certainty about what comes next. And imagine that the country you love\u2014 the country you have grown up in, where you\u2019re part of the community, where you pay your taxes, where you spend your time, your energy, and your money-- won\u2019t commit to uphold its promise to you.\u201d\r\n\u201cDreamers were brought to this country as children\u2014some of them so young, they don\u2019t remember it. And holding up their futures\u2014or sending them to a country they\u2019ve never known\u2014makes no sense for them or for our country. It doesn\u2019t do anything to solve our broken immigration system. And it certainly doesn\u2019t reflect a country of opportunity or promise, something the U.S. has always aspired to be.\u201d\r\n\u201cI know it can\u2019t be easy to speak up in these uncertain times but I want Dreamers to know there are a lot of us in Congress, and across the country, inspired by your courage and resilience. We stand with you, and we will not stop until we get this across the finish line.\u201d \r\nWATCH video of Senator Murray\u2019s floor speech HERE.\r\nFull text of Senator Murray\u2019s floor speech, as prepared for delivery:\r\nThank you. I come to the floor today as a voice for 800,000 young men and women who are counting on all of us to pass the Dream Act. We can\u2019t wait, because they can\u2019t wait. Every day that passes is another day they are forced to keep their lives on hold. \r\nRight now hundreds of thousands of young people in this country are deferring their dreams of finishing a college degree, becoming a doctor, buying a home, raising a family, starting a small business, or serving in our military\u2014 all because President Trump pulled the plug on the DACA program three months ago.\r\nImagine that feeling. Imagine waking up day after day without any certainty about what comes next. And imagine that the country you love\u2014 the country you have grown up in, where you\u2019re part of the community, where you pay your taxes, where you spend your time, your energy, and your money-- won\u2019t commit to uphold its promise to you.\r\nThat\u2019s just wrong.\r\nDreamers were brought to this country as children\u2014some of them so young, they don\u2019t remember it. And holding up their futures\u2014or sending them to a country they\u2019ve never known\u2014makes no sense for them or for our country. \r\nIt doesn\u2019t do anything to solve our broken immigration system. And it certainly doesn\u2019t reflect a country of opportunity or promise, something the U.S. has always aspired to be.\r\nMy colleagues have been sharing stories from their states. Here are a few from Washington state\u2014just a few of so many I\u2019ve heard in recent months.\r\nNot long ago, I was in Tacoma to visit a community organization that has helped hundreds of men and women get enrolled in the DACA program, including a woman named Adriana. Adriana has always been a strong student. As early as middle school, she was representing her school district in statewide math and science competitions. Now, after becoming a certified nursing assistant, she is a program manager supervising others.\u00a0 Letting the DACA program collapse would be a huge setback for Adriana. And, it would end her authorization to work as a nursing assistant. \r\nI\u2019ve also heard from a sophomore at my alma mater, Washington State University, who was brought to the U.S. at the age of nine. \u00a0Thanks to the DACA program, she was able to get a job helping adults with disabilities, which has allowed her to pay for college tuition and support herself. So she\u2019s a full-time student with a part-time job, and still finds time to volunteer in her community. She\u2019s on track to graduate in 2019 and she dreams of owning her own company someday. \r\nI heard from another DACA recipient, who owns a business in Washington state. He said his college degree from the University of Washington\u2014that he completed without any federally-funded help\u2014symbolized one of his great life challenges. And as he noted, he is now using his education, his skills, earnings, and taxes to contribute to the U.S. economy. He writes, \u201cthis country is my home.\u201d The thought that \u201cthis country\u201d would slam the door shut on him or any other Dreamer, after all they have put into their communities and our country, is so backward. \r\nSo that\u2019s why we, Senators who were elected to work for the people and address the big issues facing this country, need to act. \u00a0I urge my Republican colleagues, consider the stories you\u2019ve heard from your own state. Think about the communities you represent, and the young men and women who are studying, working, and opening businesses in the communities that you travel to and live in. Show them that President Trump\u2019s reckless, divisive agenda doesn\u2019t represent you, your party, or your state. \r\nWork with Democrats to stand for the Dreamers in your district who are unsure if they can keep their job at a hospital or as a firefighter, or serve in our military to fight for our freedoms. Who are unsure if they can stay in the only country they\u2019ve known as home and remain with loved ones. We need the help of every member to push back against the policies and the rhetoric that hurts our friends and neighbors, our coworkers, our students, and our loved ones. \r\nBecause, to paraphrase Dr. King-- we know that only our light can drive out the dark forces of bigotry and division in our country. I want to thank the countless DACA recipients who have bravely shared their stories in letters, in person, and at rallies across our great nation.\r\nI know it can\u2019t be easy to speak up in these uncertain times but I want Dreamers to know there are a lot of us in Congress, and across the country, inspired by your courage and resilience. We stand with you, and we will not stop until we get this across the finish line. \r\nThank you, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3E8D09FC-5C29-41E5-B6D9-967F5A283B42", "Senators Murray, Cantwell Join Bipartisan Group Urging Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) joined a bipartisan group of 32 senators in sending a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), urging them to include a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Program in any end-of-year legislation. SRS supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, emergency services, and many other essential county services for more than 775 counties across the country.\r\nThe SRS program expired on September 30, 2015, and it has not been reauthorized for FY16 or beyond. Forest counties and schools received their last authorized SRS payment in 2016. Without SRS, existing revenue-sharing payments are not sufficient to support critical services these counties must provide.\r\n\u201cThe SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies,\u201d Senators Cantwell and Murray wrote. \u201cIn the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.\u201d\r\nIn October, Senators Cantwell and Murray pushed for a two-year reauthorization of SRS. In 2016, under SRS, Forest Service payments to Washington counties totaled more than $17.3 million. This year, without SRS funding in place, Forest Service payments to Washington counties have totaled just $2.3 million.\r\nIn addition to Senators Cantwell and Murray, senators who signed the letter include: Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Robert P. Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Al Franken (D-MN), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Margaret Wood Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Dean Heller (R-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joe Manchin III (D-WV), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jeffery A. Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Gary Peters (D-MI), James E. Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).\r\nThe full letter is below:\r\n\u00a0\r\nDecember 6, 2017\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnell\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Honorable Chuck Schumer\r\nMajority Leader, U.S. Senate\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Minority Leader, U.S. Senate\r\nU.S. Capitol, S-230\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 U.S. Capitol, S-221\r\nWashington, DC 20510\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Washington, DC 20510\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer:\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0We write to strongly urge the inclusion of at least a two-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which enjoys tremendous bipartisan support, in any end-of-the-year legislation.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0On U.S. Forest Service land, the federal government has historically shared 25 percent of timber harvest revenues with counties to compensate for federal ownership. On certain land managed by the Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management shares 50 percent of the revenue from federal timber sales with counties. Due to declining timber harvests, a critical source of funding for rural counties, sometimes referred to as \u201cforest counties,\u201d has seen significant decreases, often decimating impacted county budgets.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0In 2000, Congress passed SRS with broad bipartisan support as a fiscal solution to help fund essential services resulting from the reduced revenue-sharing receipts. Since then, SRS has been a critical lifeline for over 775 counties in over 40 states across the country by helping fund more than 4,400 schools, road maintenance, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations.\u00a0 However, SRS authorization lapsed last year and rural counties are now back to simply receiving the timber revenue-sharing receipts. These receipts are up to 80 percent less than what forest counties received under SRS.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0We are now witnessing firsthand the hardships rural counties face as a result of SRS authorization lapsing. Without the certainty of SRS payments, schools, libraries, and jails are closing. Schools that remain open will see a reduction of teachers. Roads go unpaved and become unsafe. Mental and physical health services are scaled back or even ended. Fewer and fewer law enforcement officers are forced to patrol larger and larger areas.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0The SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0In the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Sincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=63FACAE8-1A4A-42E4-BB97-EEFDD79B4464", "Senator Murray Statement on Appointment to GOP Tax Bill Conference Committee", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after being named as one of the seven Senate Democratic conferees to participate in negotiations on the Trump-Republican tax plan:\r\n\u201cI am proud to work to bring the many concerns of Washington state families directly to this conference committee alongside Senator Cantwell. I am going to be urging Republicans to listen to their constituents and finally begin a transparent, bipartisan process that actually puts workers, families, patients, and the middle class first, rather than just paying them lip service.\r\n\u201cA tax plan that relies on further sabotaging the health care system, spiking families\u2019 premiums, and causing millions to lose their coverage\u2014just to pay for corporate tax breaks\u2014does not meet that test. And I will continue to make clear that the bipartisan bill I wrote with Chairman Alexander will not undo the damage that this tax plan would cause when it comes to health care.\r\n\u201cWashington state families are paying attention to the details of the Republican tax plan, from the elimination of the state and local tax deduction that would affect hundreds of thousands of families in our state, to the backdoor attempt to open up the Arctic Refuge to drilling. I look forward to bringing these issues and more to the table.\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s not too late for Republicans to walk away from their appalling, lopsided plan to raise taxes for the middle class while giving big corporations and the rich a massive tax break\u2014and if they step back from the precipice, I am ready to get to work.\u201d\r\nIn addition to Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Senate Democratic conferees include: Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Tom Carper (D-DE).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-joins-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-to-launch-reformers-caucus", "Kilmer Joins Bipartisan Group of Colleagues to Launch Reformers Caucus", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer Joins Bipartisan Group of Colleagues to Launch Reformers Caucus \n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) joined Representatives Kathleen Rice (NY-04) and Ken Buck (CO-04) to launch the bipartisan Congressional Reformers Caucus in the United States House of Representatives. Co-chairs Buck and Rice were joined by 17 of their colleagues as founding members of the caucus. The group pledges to work across the aisle in pursuit of common sense reforms to Congress and the legislative process.\r\n\u201cThe members of this caucus come from across the political spectrum and disagree on plenty of issues, but it\u2019s obvious to all of us that Congress is in dire need of reform, and we\u2019re committed to taking real action to change the status quo in Washington, reduce the influence of money in our political process, and get our government back to work for the people we serve,\u201d\u00a0said Representative Kathleen Rice, co-Chair of the Congressional Reformers Caucus. \u201cPeople are tired of partisan gridlock and double standards for politicians, and they\u2019re waiting for leaders to step up and work together to reform our campaign finance system and legislative process so we can solve real problems. That\u2019s exactly why we created the Reformers Caucus, and I\u2019m excited to join my colleagues in this effort to start restoring the public\u2019s faith and trust in their government.\u201d\r\n\u201cWashington is broken. Donors and insiders have too much influence, and too often backroom deals trip up good legislation. Political party has nothing to do with good governance, which is why I\u2019m proud to be joined by my friend, Rep. Kathleen Rice, and a bipartisan group of colleagues who all want a Congress that works for the people. I\u2019m eager to develop legislation with this group that will improve America\u2019s trust in our democracy,\u201d stated Congressman Ken Buck, co-chair of the Congressional Reformers Caucus.\r\n\u201cPeople are right to view Washington, DC in such low regard,\u201d Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) said. \u201cBills are being written by special interests in order to benefit campaign donors with no concern for the effects it has on the people who have to live with the results. That\u2019s wrong, and the Reformers Caucus will work to bring the will of the American people back into the debate.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\r\n\u201cThe time is now to bring common sense reforms, accountability, and transparency to Washington. I look forward to joining this bipartisan group so that we can work to regain the trust of the American people,\u201d stated Congressman Ralph Norman (SC-05).\r\n\"I'm proud to join this bipartisan effort to restore greater transparency, fairness, and ethics to the legislative process. Leaders should be held to a higher standard. It's time to bring integrity to Washington D.C.,\u201d stated Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06).\r\n\u201cSan Diegans know that our collaborative culture among businesses, universities, and government can be a model for Washington. I\u2019m pleased to join this Caucus, dedicated to working across the aisle in good faith to pass common-sense reform that would result in greater government transparency, an overhaul to the way our elections are run, and restore the full legislative process,\u201d stated Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52).\r\nThe launch of this caucus comes at a time when confidence in Congress sits at all-time lows. Americans worry that donors and Beltway insiders have undue influence over a broken legislative process. Citizens are losing confidence in our nation\u2019s capacity for good governance and functional democracy. The Congressional Reformers Caucus aims to work across the aisle on common sense reforms, fighting for greater transparency, fairness, and ethics in the legislative process.\r\nBelow are the founding members of the Congressional Reformers Caucus:\r\nDemocrat:\r\nKathleen Rice (NY-04)\r\nDerek Kilmer (WA-06)\r\nScott Peters (CA-52)\r\nSeth Moulton (MA-06)\r\nRon Kind (WI-03)\r\nTom O'Halleran (AZ-01)\r\nCheri Bustos (IL-17)\r\nStephanie Murphy (FL-07)\r\nDonald Norcross (NJ-01)\r\nJohn Sarbanes (MD-03)\r\n\r\nRepublican:\u00a0\r\nKen Buck (CO-04)\r\nMike Gallagher (WI-08)\r\nRalph Norman (SC-05)\r\nAndy Biggs (AZ-05)\r\nJack Bergman (MI-01)\r\nMatt Gaetz (FL-01)\r\nRodney Davis (IL-13)\r\nJeff Fortenberry (NE-01)\r\nMike Coffman (CO-06)\r\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-smith-opposes-concealed-carry-reciprocity-act", "Congressman Smith Opposes Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Adam Smith", "S000510", "adamsmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Office Information  \n    \n  \n      \n          \nDistrict Office Information  \n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach  \n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Beacon Hill  Seattle Public Library: Beacon Hill Branch\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Bellevue   The Lake Hills Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Federal Way   The Federal Way Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Kent  The Kent Regional Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Mercer Island   Mercer Island Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Seattle  The Good Will Industries", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-statement-on-president-trumps-decision-to-recognize-jerusalem-as", "Smith Statement on President Trump's Decision to Recognize Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Adam Smith", "S000510", "adamsmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Office Information  \n    \n  \n      \n          \nDistrict Office Information  \n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach  \n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Beacon Hill  Seattle Public Library: Beacon Hill Branch\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Bellevue   The Lake Hills Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Federal Way   The Federal Way Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Kent  The Kent Regional Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Mercer Island   Mercer Island Library\n    \n  \n      \n          \nConstituent Services Community Outreach: Seattle  The Good Will Industries", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bipartisan-congressional-bus-caucus-launches-co-led-by-wa-us-rep-rick", "Bipartisan Congressional Bus Caucus Launches, Co-Led by WA U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Washington State Transit Association has announced the formation of the Bipartisan Congressional Bus Caucus to be Co-Chaired by Congressmen Rick Larsen from Washington\u2019s 2nd Congressional District in Northwest Washington and Congressman David Young, (R-IA).\n\u201cAs someone who uses public transportation every day, I understand just how critical safe and reliable bus systems are for working Americans,\u201d said Larsen. \u201cWith more than 195 million passenger trips in Washington state annually, I am thrilled to co-chair the Congressional Bus Caucus\u00a0\u2014 robust investment in buses and transportation will keep the economy thriving.\u201d\nThe purpose of the Bus Caucus is to give a stronger voice to more than 1,100 bus transit systems across the country, 31 in Washington State, and highlight the need for adequate federal funding of bus transit programs.\nAs federal spending for public transportation has been limited, transit agencies have expressed frustration that there is not enough money to fund the needs of both heavy rail systems and bus agencies.\nThe Bus Caucus seeks to highlight the benefits of investing in bus systems, the challenges accompanying aging bus fleets and facilities, and encourage innovation in a rapidly changing transportation climate. The Caucus will raise awareness on Capitol Hill by holding occasional events to highlight the importance of transit agencies striving to deliver reliable service and meet a state of good repair.\n\u201cThere is a mountain of need by every transit agency in our state for expansion and replacement of their fleets and facilities so we are pleased to see Rep. Larsen take the lead on the Bus Caucus as our agencies and passengers need a strong voice on Capitol Hill,\u201d said Justin D. Leighton, WSTA executive director, which represents every transit agency in Washington State.\nBuses are the unsung hero in our nation\u2019s transportation network, providing more than 51 percent of transit trips per year. They have an even greater role in Washington State as they provide over 85 percent of the total 230 million public transportation trips taken in the state.\n\u201cAs President of The Bus Coalition and General Manager of Link Transit, I see how funding cuts at the federal, state and local level are impacting bus systems of all sizes,\u201d said Wenatchee transit executive Richard DeRock. The Bus Coalition is a transit industry advocacy group focused on issues specific to bus agencies.\n\u201cMany agencies are struggling to keep up with aging fleets and crumbling transit facilities. We know when systems age and service is cut, the rider experience suffers and ridership declines. That\u2019s why I\u2019m so excited about the formation of a new Congressional Caucus that will shine light on the needs of the bus transit community and give voice to a transportation asset that is so important to our local and national economy,\u201d DeRock said.\nRep. Denny Heck (WA-10) joins Larsen as a founding member of the Bus Caucus. A total of nine members of Congress have joined.\n\u201cWe encourage the remaining members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation to join their colleagues in this effort,\u201d said Leighton. \u201cThis issue is vitally important to Washington\u2019s transit agencies and their customers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-sponsors-legislation-to-give-control-of-credit-information-back-to-consumers-protect-personal-data-following-equifax-hack-", "Cantwell Sponsors Legislation to Give Control of Credit Information Back to Consumers, Protect Personal Data Following Equifax Hack", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Sponsors Legislation to Give Control of Credit Information Back to Consumers, Protect Personal Data Following Equifax Hack  \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) co-sponsored the Freedom from Equifax Exploitation (FREE) Act, authored by Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI), to give control over credit and personal information back to consumers. The recent Equifax hack announcement, which compromised the personal information of over 145 million Americans, highlighted just how little control consumers have over the collection, use, and sale of their own credit data.\r\n\u201cEquifax and many other companies have a long, long way to go before they deserve the public\u2019s trust when it comes to protecting personal information,\u201d said Cantwell. \u201cThis legislation will put control of their personal financial information back in the hands of American consumers, where it should have been all along.\u201d\r\nCredit reporting agencies like Equifax collect personal financial data on millions of Americans and rake in billions of dollars in annual revenue selling this information to others.\u00a0 If consumers wish to limit how credit reporting agencies use this information - such as by placing a credit freeze on their credit file - they often have to pay a fee to the agency, even though consumers never gave the agency permission to collect their data in the first place.\u00a0 The FREE Act helps address this problem by creating a federal requirement for credit reporting agencies to freeze (as well as temporarily or permanently unfreeze) access to credit files at a consumer's request and at no cost.\r\nThe FREE Act would also prevent credit reporting agencies from profiting off of consumers' information during a freeze, enhance fraud alert protections, and provide the opportunity for consumers to receive an additional free credit report following the Equifax data breach.\u00a0 Finally, the bill would force Equifax and the other credit reporting agencies to refund any fees they charged for credit freezes in the wake of the Equifax data breach.\r\nThe legislation has received endorsements from the National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), U.S. PIRG, Consumer Action, Americans for Financial Reform, CREDO, National Association of Consumer Advocates, and the Consumer Federation of America.\r\nView a fact sheet about the legislation HERE. View the bill text HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cantwell-and-murray-demand-trump-administration-reinstate-birth-control-coverage-for-millions-of-women", "Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Trump Administration Reinstate Birth Control Coverage for Millions of Women", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.17\n    \t\t\t Senators Cantwell and Murray Demand Trump Administration Reinstate Birth Control Coverage for Millions of Women \n    \t\t\t\n    \t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n    \t\t\t\t In new letter, Senators call on Trump Administration to rescind President Trump\u2019s action allowing employers to roll back health care coverage for women\n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\t WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0 U.S. Senators\u00a0Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA), the top Democrat on the Senate health committee, called on Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Eric Hargan to rescind President Trump\u2019s interim final rules (IFRs) issued on October 13, 2017 enabling employers and universities to interfere with their employees\u2019 and students\u2019 access to preventive health care by allowing them to choose not to cover birth control for religious or moral reasons.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators highlighted the enormous economic benefit of requiring health plans to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs.\r\n\u201cThis requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control. As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cThese IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts.\u201d\r\nSenators Murray and Cantwell also noted that repealing the birth control mandate goes against the original intentions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which created explicit provisions to guarantee women access to preventive services.\r\n\u201cCongress specifically included the Women\u2019s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the \u201cpunitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit\u201d by guaranteeing women access to preventive services,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cThe IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts\u2019 recommendations over political ideology.\u201d\r\nIn addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Al Franken (D-MN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Gary C. Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Jon Tester (D-MT), Jeff A. Merkley (D-OR), and Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-PA).\r\nFull text of letter below and PDF can be found HERE:\r\nDecember 5, 2017\r\nThe Honorable Eric D. HarganActing SecretaryU.S. Department of Health and Human Services200 Independence Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20201\r\nDear Acting Secretary Hargan,\r\nWe write to strongly oppose the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury\u2019s interim final rules (IFRs) published on Friday October 13, 2017.\u00a0The IFRs allow employers and universities to interfere with their employees\u2019 and students\u2019 access to necessary, preventive health care and to roll back policies that have protected women\u2019s health and rights, as well as saved women billions of dollars over the past five years.\u00a0Instead of reversing this significant progress for women \u2013 which it did without appropriate input from the public \u2013\u00a0the Trump Administration should reinstate the protections that allow women to control their own health care and economic security.\r\nUnder the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans are required to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs. This requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control.\u00a0As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families.\r\nContrary to claims in the background section of the IFRs, Congress was abundantly clear that to fulfill the goals of ensuring comprehensive coverage of preventive care, better health for women, equality for women, and ending discrimination against women in health care, it intended to increase access to preventive care, including contraception, for women. Congress specifically included the Women\u2019s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the \u201cpunitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit\u201d by guaranteeing women access to preventive services.\u00a0In including this provision in the law, Congress sought to advance women\u2019s access to health care, promote equality for women in health care, and advance women\u2019s social and economic status. Ensuring access to cost-free preventive services for women, including screening for cancer and HIV, helps to remove barriers that can prevent women from getting the care they need. Additionally, Congress understood that cost-free preventive health care services for women, including contraception, would decrease maternal mortality, reduce unintended pregnancies and pregnancy related complications, and also protect children\u2019s health and well-being by ensuring that women become pregnant when they are healthy and able to care for a child.\r\nCongress made the specific decision to rely on the expertise of the federal regulatory agencies in implementing the ACA. When the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) ultimately recommended coverage of birth control and related services, it effectuated Congress\u2019s intent. Congress\u2019s reliance on HRSA and the use of expert committees to determine the specific services and contraceptive methods to be covered does not detract from Congress\u2019s clear intent to provide for contraceptive coverage. To the contrary, this process ensured that medical experts determined the necessary benefits and services that would appropriately implement Congress\u2019s goals. The IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts\u2019 recommendations over political ideology.\r\nThe IFRs offer justification for their sweeping exemptions by pointing to other statutory exemptions passed by Congress, as well as the ACA\u2019s \u201cgrandfathering\u201d provision. However, the majority of the statutory exemptions cited are not pertinent to insurance coverage, contraception, or the ACA.\u00a0The Departments misconstrue these statutes to imply that Congress not only intended this broad exemption to the ACA\u2019s contraceptive coverage requirement, but also that the Departments have authority to create such a sweeping exemption.\u00a0Neither is true. Moreover, the grandfathering provision of the ACA is a temporary means for transitioning employers to full compliance, not an exemption. By creating far-reaching exemptions to the requirement to include cost-free coverage for contraceptives, the IFRs are taking a huge step back in guaranteeing women have access to important preventive services.\u00a0\r\nUltimately, the IFRs allow employers \u2013 including large, for-profit entities \u2013 to claim a religious or moral objection to their employees having coverage for birth control and allow employers to deny individual employees coverage for necessary health care otherwise guaranteed by law. The rules also permit universities to deny access to birth control coverage for their students and insurance companies to refuse to cover birth control at all.\u00a0 The result of these changes is to allow employers and universities to apply their own religious or moral beliefs to deprive women of a benefit that is both central to women\u2019s equity and guaranteed to them by law. These drastic changes to women\u2019s access to health care are part of a troubling history of women being denied ownership of their own health care decisions - a history that has had a disastrous resurgence under the Trump Administration.\u00a0\r\nThese IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts.\r\nIn creating these sweeping exemptions that block birth control coverage for women and discriminate against them \u2013 without authority and in violation of clear Congressional intent and regulatory requirements \u2013 the IFRs violate constitutional and statutory provisions, including the Establishment Clause and equal protection and due process guarantees of the U.S. Constitution, and the non-discrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act.\u00a0 By publishing these as Interim Final Rules, which went into effect immediately, the Departments failed to give the public an opportunity to weigh in on a policy which will impact millions of women and families, in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act.\r\nThe IFRs claim that, despite the significant restrictions they impose, birth control is still readily accessible and that other federal government programs cover costs for low-income women. The IFRs fail to acknowledge that the Trump Administration has been actively working to undermine and dismantle a number of programs, including Medicaid and Title X, that assist low-income women in accessing birth control. For example, each Trumpcare bill this year has proposed a dramatic restructuring of the Medicaid program that would result in significant coverage losses for low-income women.\u00a0President Trump has also signed legislation that undermines provider protections in the Title X family planning program and threatens to reduce the number of providers in the program.\u00a0 The Trump Administration cannot claim these programs will cover the costs of contraception coverage for women who will lose coverage because of the IFRs while simultaneously working to undermine them.\u00a0\r\nBy instituting broad exemptions and no guarantee that women have another way to get coverage, these IFRs would undermine access to comprehensive birth control coverage. Rather than taking yet another destructive action to undermine health care, the Trump Administration should rescind these IFRs in their entirety. \r\n\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=63B9CE52-C312-40F4-9012-CBDE10BE6659", "VETERANS: Senator Murray Slams President Trump For Gutting Successful Program to Combat Veteran Homelessness", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Despite repeated campaign promises to help veterans, President Trump\u2019s VA Secretary undermines key homelessness program in Washington state and around country\u00a0\r\nPolitico: The HUD-VASH program has \u201cdramatically reduced homelessness among chronically sick and vulnerable veterans\u201d\r\nSenator Murray: \u201c\u2026by turning his back on homeless veterans, President Trump has hit a new low\u201d\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of both the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee, sharply criticized President Trump after VA Secretary David Shulkin announced steps to undermine a key program to combat veteran homelessness by stripping away essential funds for supportive services. Known as HUD-VASH, the program helps veterans across the country by providing housing vouchers that combine rental assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since 2008, when Senator Murray helped restart HUD-VASH, the program has helped more than 100,000 homeless veterans.\r\nLast month, Senator Murray and every member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee overseeing spending related to veterans wrote a letter to VA Secretary Shulkin expressing serious concern over any changes to funding and its potential impacts to critical veteran programs, specifically citing the successful HUD-VASH program.\r\n\u201cPresident Trump has taken a lot of reckless steps over the past year, but by turning his back on homeless veterans, President Trump has hit a new low,\u201d Senator Murray said. \u201cI strongly believe this country has a responsibility to care for the brave men and women who served our country, and as I\u2019ve stated for years, if VA needs additional resources or better policy, I\u2019m always ready to figure out bipartisan solutions. But simply pulling the rug out from under a successful program\u2014leaving veterans and those providing them housing and supportive services in the lurch-- is mean-spirited and wrong, and I will fight this change with every tool I have. The decision to shift money away from the supportive services veterans urgently need is especially callous and perplexing on the same day that the Administration released data showing a nationwide increase in the number of homeless veterans since last year.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=D728AD1A-42E6-43BE-9031-F48550AB1470", "Senators Murray and Cantwell Demand Trump Administration Reinstate Birth Control Coverage for Millions of Women", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Back in October, President Trump rolled back birth control mandate under the ACA undermining preventive care for millions of women nationwide\u2014LINK\r\nIn new letter, Senators Murray, Cantwell call on Trump Administration to rescind President Trump\u2019s action allowing employers to roll back health care coverage for women\r\nICYMI- Following President Trump\u2019s action, Senators Murray, Cantwell introduced \u201cProtect Access to Birth Control Act\u201d to reinstate the birth control mandate\u2014LINK\r\nSenators: \u201cInstead of reversing this significant progress for women \u2013 which it did without appropriate input from the public \u2013 the Trump Administration should reinstate the protections that allow women to control their own health care and economic security.\u201d\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 \u00a0Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), top Democrat on the Senate health committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called on Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Eric Hargan to rescind President Trump\u2019s interim final rules (IFRs) issued on October 13, 2017 enabling employers and universities to interfere with their employees\u2019 and students\u2019 access to preventive health care by allowing them to choose not to cover birth control for religious or moral reasons.\r\nIn their letter, the Senators highlighted the enormous economic benefit of requiring health plans to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs.\r\n\u201cThis requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control. As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cThese IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts.\u201d\r\nSenators Murray and Cantwell also noted that repealing the birth control mandate goes against the original intentions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which created explicit provisions to guarantee women access to preventive services.\r\n\u201cCongress specifically included the Women\u2019s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the \u201cpunitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit\u201d by guaranteeing women access to preventive services,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cThe IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts\u2019 recommendations over political ideology.\u201d\r\nIn addition to Senators Murray and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Al Franken (D-MN), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Gary C. Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Jon Tester (D-MT), Jeff A. Merkley (D-OR), and Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-PA).\r\nFull text of letter below and PDF can be found HERE:\r\n\u00a0\r\nDecember 5, 2017\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Eric D. Hargan\r\nActing Secretary\r\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services\r\n200 Independence Avenue, SW\r\nWashington, DC 20201\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Acting Secretary Hargan,\r\nWe write to strongly oppose the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury\u2019s interim final rules (IFRs) published on Friday October 13, 2017.[1]\u00a0 The IFRs allow employers and universities to interfere with their employees\u2019 and students\u2019 access to necessary, preventive health care and to roll back policies that have protected women\u2019s health and rights, as well as saved women billions of dollars over the past five years.\u00a0Instead of reversing this significant progress for women \u2013 which it did without appropriate input from the public \u2013\u00a0the Trump Administration should reinstate the protections that allow women to control their own health care and economic security.\r\nUnder the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans are required to cover preventive services, including birth control for women, without out-of-pocket costs. This requirement has helped 62.4 million women have coverage for birth control.[2] As a result, they have been able to make decisions about their reproductive health care that strengthen their economic standing and allow them to decide if and when to start families.\r\nContrary to claims in the background section of the IFRs, Congress was abundantly clear that to fulfill the goals of ensuring comprehensive coverage of preventive care, better health for women, equality for women, and ending discrimination against women in health care, it intended to increase access to preventive care, including contraception, for women. Congress specifically included the Women\u2019s Health Amendment in the ACA to ensure that the legislation would end the \u201cpunitive practices of insurances companies that charge women more and give [them] less in a benefit\u201d by guaranteeing women access to preventive services.[3] In including this provision in the law, Congress sought to advance women\u2019s access to health care, promote equality for women in health care, and advance women\u2019s social and economic status.[4] Ensuring access to cost-free preventive services for women, including screening for cancer and HIV, helps to remove barriers that can prevent women from getting the care they need. Additionally, Congress understood that cost-free preventive health care services for women, including contraception, would decrease maternal mortality, reduce unintended pregnancies and pregnancy related complications, and also protect children\u2019s health and well-being by ensuring that women become pregnant when they are healthy and able to care for a child.[5]\r\nCongress made the specific decision to rely on the expertise of the federal regulatory agencies in implementing the ACA. When the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) ultimately recommended coverage of birth control and related services, it effectuated Congress\u2019s intent. Congress\u2019s reliance on HRSA and the use of expert committees to determine the specific services and contraceptive methods to be covered does not detract from Congress\u2019s clear intent to provide for contraceptive coverage. To the contrary, this process ensured that medical experts determined the necessary benefits and services that would appropriately implement Congress\u2019s goals. The IFRs fail to recognize this clear congressional intent to place medical experts\u2019 recommendations over political ideology.\r\nThe IFRs offer justification for their sweeping exemptions by pointing to other statutory exemptions passed by Congress, as well as the ACA\u2019s \u201cgrandfathering\u201d provision. However, the majority of the statutory exemptions cited are not pertinent to insurance coverage, contraception, or the ACA.\u00a0The Departments misconstrue these statutes to imply that Congress not only intended this broad exemption to the ACA\u2019s contraceptive coverage requirement, but also that the Departments have authority to create such a sweeping exemption.\u00a0Neither is true. Moreover, the grandfathering provision of the ACA is a temporary means for transitioning employers to full compliance, not an exemption. By creating far-reaching exemptions to the requirement to include cost-free coverage for contraceptives, the IFRs are taking a huge step back in guaranteeing women have access to important preventive services.\u00a0\r\nUltimately, the IFRs allow employers \u2013 including large, for-profit entities \u2013 to claim a religious or moral objection to their employees having coverage for birth control and allow employers to deny individual employees coverage for necessary health care otherwise guaranteed by law. The rules also permit universities to deny access to birth control coverage for their students and insurance companies to refuse to cover birth control at all.\u00a0 The result of these changes is to allow employers and universities to apply their own religious or moral beliefs to deprive women of a benefit that is both central to women\u2019s equity and guaranteed to them by law. These drastic changes to women\u2019s access to health care are part of a troubling history of women being denied ownership of their own health care decisions - a history that has had a disastrous resurgence under the Trump Administration.\u00a0\r\nThese IFRs also allow employers and insurance companies to once again discriminate against women by requiring them to pay more for the health care they need compared to their male counterparts.\r\nIn creating these sweeping exemptions that block birth control coverage for women and discriminate against them \u2013 without authority and in violation of clear Congressional intent and regulatory requirements \u2013 the IFRs violate constitutional and statutory provisions, including the Establishment Clause and equal protection and due process guarantees of the U.S. Constitution, and the non-discrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act.\u00a0 By publishing these as Interim Final Rules, which went into effect immediately, the Departments failed to give the public an opportunity to weigh in on a policy which will impact millions of women and families, in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act.\r\nThe IFRs claim that, despite the significant restrictions they impose, birth control is still readily accessible and that other federal government programs cover costs for low-income women. The IFRs fail to acknowledge that the Trump Administration has been actively working to undermine and dismantle a number of programs, including Medicaid and Title X, that assist low-income women in accessing birth control. For example, each Trumpcare bill this year has proposed a dramatic restructuring of the Medicaid program that would result in significant coverage losses for low-income women.\u00a0President Trump has also signed legislation that undermines provider protections in the Title X family planning program and threatens to reduce the number of providers in the program.[6]\u00a0 The Trump Administration cannot claim these programs will cover the costs of contraception coverage for women who will lose coverage because of the IFRs while simultaneously working to undermine them.\u00a0\r\nBy instituting broad exemptions and no guarantee that women have another way to get coverage, these IFRs would undermine access to comprehensive birth control coverage. Rather than taking yet another destructive action to undermine health care, the Trump Administration should rescind these IFRs in their entirety.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=F9F5079E-98AB-4219-9B35-9AD696E303AE", "Senator Murrays Statement on Latest Franken News: Its time for him to step aside", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cI\u2019m shocked and appalled by Sen. Franken\u2019s behavior.\u00a0 It\u2019s clear to me that this has been a deeply harmful, persistent problem and a clear pattern over a long period of time.\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s time for him to step aside.\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u201cFor some time I have talked about returning the word respect to our language, to our actions,\u00a0and to our politics.\u00a0 That has to start at the top. We must lead by example. Respecting women as equals and not as objects is a critical part of that. Sexual harassment, or assault, or in any way using your power to demean women cannot be tolerated. \u00a0I want my colleagues, my staff, my constituents, and especially my granddaughters to know that is not acceptable.\u00a0\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u201cThis institution has evolved over centuries, it\u2019s evolved over my nearly three decades of service, and it\u2019s evolving once more before our very eyes.\u00a0 This current evolution is long overdue.\u00a0 It\u2019s time for us as elected representatives to hold ourselves to a higher standard, to set an example, and to live a set of values that is truly representative and worthy of the Congress, our democracy, and our great country.\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u201cTo truly accomplish that we must agree that there is no place for discrimination or harassment in the government.\u00a0We cannot pick and choose based on political party or friendship who we call out. It pains me that in this case it is someone who I think has been a tremendous voice for our party. \u00a0But that makes it even more imperative that we don\u2019t tolerate this behavior. We cannot allow it to be ok. Or we own the silence women will once again be delegated to.\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u201cBe they political friends or foes, we must call out those who would seek to sweep under the rug behavior that should never be accepted in any family or community. And if we\u2019re serious about that, there\u2019s no way we can condone those who inappropriately touch others, those who force themselves on women of all ages, or those would take their power and weaponize it for their own ends.\u00a0For those who are tempted to politicize this issue, or try to protect anyone who has crossed the line into an unacceptable place, I would suggest that they speak first with their mom, wife, sister, daughter, or friend, and ask about their own experiences.\u00a0 Find out how pervasive the culture of abuse, silence, and acceptance is.\u00a0 Find out how power is used to abuse.\u00a0 Find out just how hard it is to speak out.\u00a0\u00a0And then, rather than justifying one person\u2019s behavior for your own political purposes, join me and so many others in making clear that we will not accept it\u2014regardless of party, position, or celebrity.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\r\n\r\n\u201cI believe service in politics and government is a noble pursuit, and all those who pursue it are flawed in some way.\u00a0 But I also believe public service demands higher standards \u2013 standards we choose to live by the moment we enter public life.\u00a0 And some actions should disqualify you from service, and they should disqualify you as a representative of all the people in a district, state, or even in the entire country.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/a-former-congressman-asked-his-old-colleagues-for-book-suggestions-here-s", "A former congressman asked his old colleagues for book suggestions. Heres their list.", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "When I used to visit troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, I liked to ask an unexpected question: \u201cWhat are you reading?\u201d The responses weren\u2019t much different on the battlefield than at my local shopping mall. Lots of thrillers (Patterson, DeMille, Clancy), hobby magazines, continuing education texts and \u201cnothing really, sir\u201d \u2014 except nobody called me \u201csir\u201d at the mall.\nBut what about the political battlefield in Washington, where every day is another bombshell? Which books offer our lawmakers insight, knowledge and, yes, escape? I asked my former Democratic and Republican congressional colleagues to name the titles they have most enjoyed reading this year:\nSen. Sherrod Brown\u00a0(D-Ohio):\u00a0\u201cHow To Fight,\u201d\u00a0by Thich Nhat Hanh. Always instructive on staying grounded personally and professionally. He understands so well the suffering of others.\nRep. Matthew Cartwright\u00a0(D-Pa.): David McCullough\u2019s\u00a0\u201cThe Wright Brothers.\u201d\u00a0I like it because it\u2019s about tackling ridiculously hard, scary problems and figuring out how to solve them.\nRep. Tom Cole\u00a0(R-Okla.: Two great books for \u201cfun\u201d: David Grann\u2019s\u00a0\u201cKillers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI\u201d\u00a0and Kyle Harper\u2019s\u00a0\u201cThe Fate of Rome: Climate, Disease, and the End of an Empire.\u201d\nRep. Charlie Dent\u00a0(R-Pa.): I\u2019ve always been intrigued by World War II and the events leading up to it. Erik Larson\u2019s\u00a0\u201cIn the Garden of Beasts\u201d\u00a0relates the fascinating perspective of the American ambassador to Berlin, William Dodd, in the 1930s during the run-up to war. His insider knowledge about Hitler\u2019s Germany is definitely worth reading.\nRep. Keith Ellison\u00a0(D-Minn.):\u00a0\u201cThe Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness,\u201d\u00a0by Sy Montgomery. A fun and fascinating diversion from the political stuff I usually read. It\u2019s about a biologist\u2019s relationship and attachment to octopuses. Amazing animals, octopuses possess powers of thinking and feeling far beyond anything I knew.\nRep. Anna G. Eshoo\u00a0(D-Calif.):\u00a0\u201cJournal of a Soul,\u201d\u00a0by Pope John XXIII. I read it years ago but needed something uplifting, so I went back to it.\nRep. Denny Heck\u00a0(D-Wash.):\u00a0\u201cFading Shadows,\u201d\u00a0by William Chance. This is part memoir and part history of a high school dropout who lies about his age and serves in the Korean War at age 15. Many years later, Chance earned his PhD and became a higher-education policy expert of national repute.\nRep. Brian Higgins\u00a0(D-N.Y.):\u00a0\u201cLeonardo da Vinci,\u201d\u00a0by Walter Isaacson. Da Vinci\u2019s relationship with Michelangelo, who was more than 20 years younger, was complicated in the love-hate nature of the Adams-Jefferson political relationship.\nRep. Joe Kennedy\u00a0(D-Mass.): The book that probably affected me most of late is\u00a0\u201cWhen Breath Becomes Air,\u201d\u00a0by Paul Kalanithi. It\u2019s about as gut-wrenching as it gets but asks important questions about priorities, quality of life and our health-care system.\nRep. Daniel Kildee\u00a0(D-Mich.):\u00a0\u201cBreaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon,\u201d\u00a0by Daniel C. Dennett. Dennett is a professor of philosophy. When I am not reading history, biography or current events literature, I tend to default to philosophy. I find it\u2019s abstract enough not to feel like work, but interesting. As you might surmise, I don\u2019t tend to read fiction. Except for the White House daily press briefing.\nRep. Barbara Lee\u00a0(D-Calif.):\u00a0\u201cBefore I Forget,\u201d\u00a0by B. Smith and Dan Gasby. About an African American woman\u2019s struggle with Alzheimer\u2019s. She had restaurants in D.C. at Union Station and in New York. Alzheimer\u2019s research related to African Americans has been absent. I\u2019m a member of the appropriations subcommittee on labor, health and human services. I\u2019ve led efforts for increased funding on health disparities research regarding people of color. This book is very well-written, informative and helps me make the case.\nRep. Ted Lieu\u00a0(D-Calif.): I am reading the \u201cNebula Awards Showcase 2017: The Year\u2019s Best Science Fiction and Fantasy\u201d because the truth coming out of the White House is weirder than science fiction.\nRep. Sean Maloney\u00a0(D-N.Y.):\u00a0\u201cThe Plot Against America,\u201d\u00a0by Philip Roth. Reason?\u00a0Duh. And that\u2019s on the record.Sen. Claire McCaskill\u00a0(D-Mo.):\u00a0\u201cManhattan Beach,\u201d\u00a0by Jennifer Egan. I love historical fiction, especially when it features nontraditional strong women heroines. This one is determined to be a diver repairing ships in New York\u2019s harbor during WWII. Secrets and double-crossing on a personal level kept me turning the pages.\nRep. Beto O\u2019Rourke\u00a0(D-Tex.): \u201cThe Iliad\u201d right now for no particular reason other than it\u2019s a great book.\u201d\nRep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen\u00a0(R-Guess Which State):\u00a0\u201cBest. State. Ever.: A Florida Man Defends His Homeland,\u201d\u00a0by Dave Barry, and\u00a0\u201cOh, Florida!: How America\u2019s Weirdest State Influences the Rest of the Country,\u201d\u00a0by Craig Pittman.\nRep. Adam B. Schiff\u00a0(D-Calif.): I like to be reading a work of fiction and nonfiction at the same time. The former is a great escape from the stresses of the day, and the latter contributes to what we know about history. Pierce Brown\u2019s Red Rising series is like \u201cGame of Thrones\u201d set in space. If you want all the mayhem of the House of Lannister in low gravity, this is the series for you. Imaginative and well-written.\nRep. Eric Swalwell\u00a0(D-Calif.):\u00a0\u201cHow the Good Guys Finally Won: Notes From an Impeachment Summer,\u201dby Jimmy Breslin. I don\u2019t think you need a description as to why I\u2019m reading it.\u201d\nAnd, in what is truly the most bipartisan and collegial response, here\u2019s\u00a0Rep. Billy Long (R-Mo.)\u00a0: Actually just finished\u00a0\u201cGiant of the Senate,\u201d\u00a0by Al Franken, and now I\u2019m reading Chris Matthews\u2019s new\u00a0\u201cBobby Kennedy.\u201d\u00a0Big Steve Israel and Joe Kennedy fan, too.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-joins-44-senators-urging-president-to-swiftly-nominate-aggressive-head-of-consumer-watchdog", "Cantwell Joins 44 Senators Urging President to Swiftly Nominate Aggressive Head of Consumer Watchdog", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.05.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Joins 44 Senators Urging President to Swiftly Nominate Aggressive Head of Consumer Watchdog \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of Senate Finance Committee, joined 45 Senate colleagues in a letter urging President Trump to follow the law and swiftly nominate a permanent director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) who will put working families ahead of Wall Street.\r\nIn their letter, the senators cited the CFPB\u2019s \u201caggressive enforcement and supervision,\u201d which has resulted in $12 billion in relief to 29 million American consumers who were cheated by financial companies.\r\nThe Senators also expressed serious concerns with the White House installing Budget Director Mick Mulvaney as part-time acting director on November 24th , despite clear language in the Dodd-Frank law stating that the Deputy Director, Leandra English, \u2018shall\u2019 run the agency in the \u2018absence or unavailability\u2019 of the director. Mulvaney has a clear record opposing the CFPB and has sought to abolish it.\r\nIn his first act as part-time acting director, Mulvaney moved to freeze the payments to working Americans who\u2019ve been cheated.\r\n\u201cAssigning leadership of the CFPB to someone who already has a full-time job reporting to the White House and who does not believe in the CFPB\u2019s mission jeopardizes the agency\u2019s independence and effectiveness,\u201d\u00a0the members wrote.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cWe urge you to nominate a CFPB Director who will bring to the job both bipartisan support and a track record of being tough on Wall Street. Following the Dodd-Frank succession provision and nominating a Director who will fight for consumers allows the CFPB to continue its work without political interference.\u201d\r\nThe full text of the letter is available\u00a0here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=3115D829-AF1F-4010-B117-95827BF4EFAA", "OPIOID CRISIS: Senator Murray Admonishes Trump Administration for Continued Failure to Support Emergency Funding Needed to Combat Epidemic Devastating Washington State & Communities Nationwide", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Led by Senator Murray, Senate appropriations subcommittee meets to discuss need to provide emergency supplemental funding to combat opioid epidemic\r\nDespite White House\u2019s own Council of Economic Advisors estimating cost of opioid crisis at over $500 billion, President Trump has repeatedly failed to support adequate resources for hospitals, communities, states\r\nAt hearing, Senator Murray continued to highlight impact of opioid crisis in WA state\u2014\u201cNearly 10,000 people have died of an opioid overdose since 2000\u201d\r\nSenator Murray: \u201cWhat\u2019s needed to make a real difference in the lives of countless patients and families in Washington state and across the country struggling from addiction are real, immediate resources to fight this battle on the ground\u201d\r\n\u201cWe need more than tough talk from President Trump to address this crisis\u201d\r\n***WATCH VIDEO OF SENATOR MURRAY\u2019S OPENING REMARKS HERE***\r\n(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 The Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (LHHS) Appropriations Subcommittee, led by Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) for Senate Democrats, held a hearing today to discuss the additional funding needed to meaningfully respond to the opioid crisis with experts from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).\r\nAs she has traveled around Washington state, Senator Murray has heard from countless patients, families, medical providers, and law enforcement members about the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on local communities.\u00a0\r\nIn her remarks during the hearing and questions with witnesses, Senator Murray called on the Trump Administration to commit to supporting the emergency supplemental funding desperately needed to give States and communities the evidence-based tools to combat the epidemic.\r\nICYMI\u2014Senator Murray continued to highlight CDC director Brenda Fitzgerald\u2019s absence from yet another hearing on the opioid crisis due to her potential conflicts of interest.\r\nKey excerpts of Senator Murray\u2019s opening statement (as prepared for delivery):\r\n\u201cEvery day, from every corner of our country, we hear more about the devastation being caused by the opioid crisis - from doctors who are treating babies born addicted to opioids, to parents who have lost children to an overdose, to veterans in chronic pain who are struggling with addiction \u2013 unfortunately the list could go on and on.\u201d\r\n\u201cIn my home state of Washington, nearly 10,000 people have died of an opioid overdose since 2000. That\u2019s 10,000 lives cut short \u2013 with countless more families and friends left suffering and picking up the pieces. And I know these heartbreaking numbers are reflective of what\u2019s going on in states all across the country.\u201d\r\n\u201cThe opioid epidemic is a public health crisis as well as an emergency\u2014and I\u2019m very disappointed the Administration not taken any decisive action to address it.\u201d\r\n\u201cWhat\u2019s needed to make a real difference in the lives of countless patients and families in Washington state and across the country struggling from addiction are real, immediate resources to fight this battle on the ground.\u201d\r\n\u201cMake no mistake \u2013 this epidemic IS an emergency.\u00a0 Every day 175 Americans die from an opioid overdose.\u00a0 Yet the administration has been shockingly silent when it comes to identifying resources to address this public health crisis of addiction here at home. \u201c\r\n\u201cLast month, the White House\u2019s own Council of Economic Advisors released a report estimating the economic cost of the opioid crisis to be at over $500 billion dollars\u2014just for 2015. That is six times larger than the most recently estimated economic cost of the opioid epidemic.\u201d\r\n\u201cLet me tell you \u2013 this cost is growing more each and every day \u2013 and it certainly won\u2019t be addressed by stunts like the president committing to donating his third quarter salary to HHS. It\u2019s long past time for this administration to get serious about this crisis.\u201d\r\nWatch video of Senator Murray\u2019s opening statement HERE.\r\nFull text of Senator Murray\u2019s opening statement (as prepared for delivery):\r\nThank you, Mr. Chairman for calling this hearing on such an urgent topic.\r\nI am very pleased to welcome the distinguished former Congressman from Rhode Island, Patrick Kennedy, who served on the administration\u2019s opioid Commission.\r\nI am looking forward to your testimony, as well as hearing from our witnesses from the Department of Health and Human Services about what additional actions are needed to stem this epidemic.\u00a0 \u00a0\r\nI also want to note that I am, once again, disappointed that the director of the Centers for Disease Control, Brenda Fitzgerald, was unable to join us today to share her perspective.\r\nSince this is an Appropriations committee hearing, I will be pressing our witnesses to talk specifically about funding needs.\u00a0\r\nEvery day, from every corner of our country, we hear more about the devastation being caused by the opioid crisis - from doctors who are treating babies born addicted to opioids, to parents who have lost children to an overdose, to veterans in chronic pain who are struggling with addiction \u2013 unfortunately the list could go on and on.\u00a0\r\nIn my home state of Washington, nearly 10,000 people have died of an opioid overdose since 2000.\u00a0\r\nThat\u2019s 10,000 lives cut short \u2013 with countless more families and friends left suffering and picking up the pieces.\r\nAnd I know these heartbreaking numbers are reflective of what\u2019s going on in states all across the country.\r\nBecause this epidemic does not discriminate\u2014it can reach anyone\u2014and it can reach anywhere.\r\nSo\u2014the opioid epidemic is a public health crisis as well as an emergency\u2014and I\u2019m very disappointed the Administration not taken any decisive action to address it.\r\nWhat\u2019s needed to make a real difference in the lives of countless patients and families in Washington state and across the country struggling from addiction are real, immediate resources to fight this battle on the ground.\r\nAnd despite the work of the Commission and its recommendations, the Commission failed to identify any additional funding to battle the epidemic.\r\nMake no mistake \u2013 this epidemic IS an emergency.\u00a0 Every day 175 Americans die from an opioid overdose.\u00a0\r\nYet the administration has been shockingly silent when it comes to identifying resources to address this public health crisis of addiction here at home.\u00a0\r\nAnd just to underscore how inadequate this Administration\u2019s response to the opioid crisis has been\u2026\r\nLast month, the White House\u2019s own Council of Economic Advisors released a report estimating the economic cost of the opioid crisis to be at over $500 billion dollars\u2014just for 2015.\r\nThat is six times larger than the most recently estimated economic cost of the opioid epidemic.\r\nAnd let me tell you \u2013 this cost is growing more each and every day \u2013 and it certainly won\u2019t be addressed by stunts like the president committing to donating his third quarter salary to HHS.\r\nIt\u2019s long past time for this administration to get serious about this crisis.\r\nNow\u2014given the current budget caps, this subcommittee simply has not been able to provide the level of funding needed to make real progress in preventing and treating opioid addiction.\u00a0\r\nFunding in the LHHS appropriations bills has remained basically level.\u00a0\r\nBut the epidemic has not remained level, it has escalated. Overdose rates continue to soar.\u00a0\r\nThe epidemic is now being driven by synthetic drugs like Fentanyl that are 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine.\u00a0\r\nAnd the most recent data suggest that more people are skipping prescription painkillers altogether and going straight to heroin as their first opioid.\u00a0\r\nGiven the scope of the crisis, emergency supplemental funding is desperately needed that will give States and communities the evidence-based tools that could turn this epidemic around.\r\nThe current situation is unacceptable. And we need more than tough talk from President Trump to address this crisis.\u00a0\r\nCongress\u2014and patients and families\u2014need this Administration to be an equal partner in fighting this epidemic and unfortunately its actions thus far are simply not enough.\r\nThank you, Mr. Chairman.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-and-colleagues-introduce-resolution-calling-for-increased-computer-science-education-in-k-12-schools", "Kilmer and Colleagues Introduce Resolution Calling for Increased Computer Science Education in K-12 Schools", "2017-12-04", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.04.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer and Colleagues Introduce Resolution Calling for Increased Computer Science Education in K-12 Schools \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC - Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06), joined by Reps. Daniel Lipinski (IL-03), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), and Scott Taylor (VA-02) introduced a resolution calling for an increase in public-private partnerships that expand computer science education to more K-12 classrooms.\r\n\u201cEducation is the doorway to economic opportunity,\u201d Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06) said. \u201cEfforts to strengthen computer science programs will provide more job opportunities for our kids, more qualified employees for local employers, and more economic resiliency for our communities and our country.\u00a0 That\u2019s why this resolution makes sense.\u201d\r\n\"Right now, only forty percent of schools teach computer programming, even though computing jobs are projected to grow at twice the rate of all other jobs,\" stated Congressman Scott Taylor. \"The job landscape in America is rapidly changing. We need to equip our children with the skills to be competitive in a 21st Century global economy.\"\r\n\u201cI'm happy to join with Rep. Taylor in introducing this legislation which recognizes the great contributions of so many private institutions who work with our schools to bring more and better computer science learning opportunities to students,\" said Congressman Dan Lipinski. \"This includes organizations like Girls Who Code, which operates clubs that give girls opportunities to develop coding skills and build apps through after-school and weekend programs.\u00a0 We need partners like this if we\u2019re going to meet the tremendous demand for computer science talent in the job market of today and tomorrow.\u201d\r\n\u201cIn the 3rd District of Tennessee and around the nation, there are an increasing number of job openings with state-of-the-art technology that require specialized technical training. However, I constantly speak to employers who voice concern that our workforce supply cannot meet this demand. It is estimated that by 2020 there will be 1 million vacant computing jobs with a significant lack of technically trained candidates to fill these positions,\u201d Congressman Fleischmann said. \u201cTo address this pressing issue, public and private sectors need to make a greater investment in high skill technical education and workforce development training. This effort must begin in our K-12 classrooms, so we can equip our future generations with the training necessary to fill the increased demand for technical jobs.\u201d\r\nIt is projected that by 2020 there will be 1.4 million computer-science-related jobs available, but only about 400,000 computer science graduates to fill them, resulting in a $500 billion opportunity gap. According to the Computer Science Education Coalition, in grades K-12 over 60% of students do not have access to Computer Science education, despite the fact 9 out of 10 parents say they want it taught in their children's schools. \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-statement-on-president-trumps-decision-to-remove-protections-from-millions-of-acres-of-public-land", "Kilmer Statement on President Trump\u2019s Decision to Remove Protections from Millions of Acres of Public Land", "2017-12-04", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Derek Kilmer", "K000381", "kilmer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.04.17\n\t\t\t Kilmer Statement on President Trump\u2019s Decision to Remove Protections from Millions of Acres of Public Land \n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC\u2013\u00a0Today, Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) made the following statement after President Donald Trump announced he will remove protections from nearly two million acres of public land in Utah:\r\n\u201cThis is a short-sighted decision that takes us in the wrong direction,\u201d Rep. Derek Kilmer said. \u201cNational monuments \u2013 in our state and around the nation \u2013 have not only protected environmentally and culturally sensitive areas, they have also proven to be significant economic drivers. That\u2019s why Democrats and Republicans have, for decades, supported these designations.\u00a0 The Administration\u2019s decision will have irreversible consequences that reach far beyond these first two monuments. I am disappointed in this attack on our public lands, and I will continue fighting to protect these national treasures.\u201d \n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/media/press-releases/jayapal-responds-supreme-court-order-president-trump-s-muslim-ban", "Jayapal Responds to Supreme Court Order on President Trumps Muslim Ban", "2017-12-04", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court move allowing President Trump\u2019s Muslim Ban to go into effect:\n\u201cThe reality is, the discriminatory intent behind the Muslim Ban has been on full display on the president\u2019s personal Twitter feed, where just last week he used his platform to spread vile anti-Muslim propaganda. Today\u2019s Supreme Court order ignores the anti-Muslim animus behind the Muslim ban and represents a setback for Americans of all stripes who oppose this injustice.\n\u201cIn the courts, the streets and the halls of Congress, the fight is far from over. The Court\u2019s decision underscores the need for all of us to not only continue challenging this unconstitutional ban in the legal system, but to also show up for our Muslim neighbors, co-workers and friends in every venue and community. We must put into action the values that define the America we know: fairness, inclusion, equality and justice.\u201d\nBackground: Today\u2019s Supreme Court decision allows the revised Muslim ban to be fully enforced while legal challenges move forward in lower courts, including in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which includes Washington state. The countries impacted are Syria, Libya, Iran, Yemen, Chad, Somalia, North Korea and Venezuela. Six of these countries have Muslim majorities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-statement-on-trump-administrations-unlawful-attack-on-public-lands", "Cantwell Statement On Trump Administration\u2019s Unlawful Attack On Public Lands", "2017-12-04", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.04.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell Statement On Trump Administration\u2019s Unlawful Attack On Public Lands \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) made the following statement regarding the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to reduce Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante:\u00a0\r\n\"Veterans, sportsmen, climbers, hikers and the outdoor economy all depend on open space.\u00a0 \u200eBears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante have been driving a vibrant outdoor economy for years. Now President Trump is using unlawful authority to pollute these special places.\u00a0 \u00a0His administration deserves an 'F' for stewardship.\"\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=FFEB4C71-A7D9-4662-9E97-115B92828D78", "Senator Murray Slams President Trumps Attempt to Shrink National Monuments", "2017-12-04", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 \u00a0Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after President Trump announced he would drastically shrink the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments, both created under the 1906 Antiquities Act:\r\n\u201cOnce again, President Trump is taking an unprecedented step\u2014this time, by trying to roll back public land protections and gut the time-honored Antiquities Act-- as a gift to Big Oil and other multi-national corporations. This is deeply disappointing but hardly surprising. Whether we are talking tax cuts, health care or any other issue, it is clear the Trump Administration will leave no stone unturned in its quest to make the rich richer, even if that means chipping away at tribal treaty rights, undermining efforts to combat climate change, or leaving middle class Americans behind.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2234", "DelBene Introduces Bill Eliminating Corporate Tax Breaks that Protect Perpetrators of Sexual Misconduct", "2017-12-01", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Suzan DelBene", "D000617", "delbene.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) today introduced legislation that would eliminate tax breaks that currently allow corporations to deduct expenses associated with instances of sexual misconduct by their employees.\r\n\u201cIt is coming into sharp focus that for too long settlements have been paid by powerful figures to victims of sexual misconduct in exchange for their signing non-disclosure agreements, keeping perpetrators\u2019 reputations intact and company names out of headlines. This payment-for-silence system has protected predators, propped up toxic work environments and prevented potential future victims from being informed and able to protect themselves. It\u2019s shameful that our tax code allows corporations to deduct settlement payments, propagating this rampant problem,\u201d DelBene said. \u201cAs a society, if we\u2019re going to demand corporations invest in creating an environment and culture that encourages people to come forward and report abuses, we need transparency and accountability, not settlements and silence. That\u2019s why I introduced the Stop Tax Breaks for Sexual Misconduct Act. My bill would make the price for silence steeper for corporations, taking one step toward incentivizing real solutions to end sexual misconduct in the workplace rather than a system of sweeping things under the rug.\u201d\r\nUnder current law, corporations can deduct settlements paid to victims of sexual misconduct, insurance premiums for sexual misconduct policies and associated attorney\u2019s fees as an \u201cordinary and necessary expenses.\u201d However, victims who receive settlement payouts or damages in a sexual misconduct case are not currently allowed to exclude those payments from their taxable income, whereas payouts for physical injuries, for example, are excluded from taxable income.\r\nDelBene\u2019s bill would:\r\n \r\n    Eliminate the ability of corporations to deduct damages or settlements paid to victims of sexual misconduct by an employee. \r\n \r\n \r\n     Eliminate the ability of corporations to deduct attorney\u2019s fees associated with resolving any case of sexual misconduct by an employee. \r\n \r\n \r\n    Eliminate the ability of corporations to deduct the cost of sexual misconduct insurance premiums from their federal taxes. \r\n \r\n \r\n    Exclude from taxable income any amount received as damages or settlement in a case of sexual misconduct.\r\n \r\nReps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Judy Chu (CA-27) are original cosponsors of DelBene\u2019s bill. All three Congresswoman serve on the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over the tax code.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-intelligence-committee-advances-a-deeply-flawed-nsa-surveillance-bill", "House Intelligence Committee Advances a Deeply Flawed NSA Surveillance Bill", "2017-12-01", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A bill to extend one of the NSA\u2019s most powerful surveillance tools, and further peel back American civil liberties, was approved today by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in a strict party line vote (12-8), with Republican members voting in the majority.\nThe committee and the public had less than 48 hours to read and discuss the bill. Democratic committee members openly criticized the short timeframe, amongst other problems.\u00a0\n\u201cThis bill was shared with my office less than 24 hours ago, and here we are marking up legislation that has incredibly profound constitutional implications for all Americans,\u201d said Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA). She continued: \u201cWe could be sitting here, thoughtfully debating the precarious balance between security and civil liberties and the best path forward, but instead, the majority has decided to do otherwise.\u201d\nThe bill is the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act of 2017, and it was introduced on the evening of November 30 by House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes (R-CA). It is the latest legislative attempt to reauthorize Section 702, one of the NSA\u2019s most powerful surveillance authorities that allows for the targeting and collection of communications of non-U.S. persons not living in the United States. The NSA also uses Section 702 to justify the \u201cincidental\u201d collection of American communications that are predictably swept up during foreign intelligence surveillance, too.\nThe bill has many problems that you can read about\u00a0here, from potentially restarting one of the NSA\u2019s most invasive forms of surveillance to treating constitutional rights as optional.\nBut instead of probing these privacy defects in the bill, much of the Friday morning hearing was dominated by heated partisan debate around a single topic that one Democratic committee member described as \u201cpolitical dynamite.\u201d\nThat issue is \u201cunmasking,\u201d the process by which the identities of Americans whose communications are collected through the broader FISA law are revealed at request by government officials. The Nunes bill includes several oversight provisions for this process.\nAccording to the committee\u2019s Ranking Member Adam Schiff (D-CA), the issue has nothing to do with Section 702, and it has no rightful place in the Nunes bill.\nClose to one hour into the disagreements, Rep. Denny Heck (D-WA) bemoaned the lost opportunity to have a conversation on the balance between national security and civil liberties.\n\u201cI\u2019m voting no because I believe that this bill sets up a false choice between whether or not we can be secure, or whether or not we can protect our rights to privacy, especially under the Fourth Amendment,\u201d Rep. Heck said. \u201cBenjamin Franklin famously quipped, and I\u2019m amazed that he has not yet been quoted today, that those who would trade privacy for security deserve neither.\u201d\nRep. Heck continued: \u201cI find that the weight of this bill trades off privacy for security, and I believe that is a false choice because I believe we can have both.\u201d\nWe agree. The Nunes bill threatens the privacy of American communications and potentially opens up U.S. persons to an invasive type of NSA surveillance that the agency voluntarily ended this year.\nThe Nunes bill goes backward. Surveillance reform must move forward.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://dennyheck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congressman-denny-heck-following-passage-of-bill-to", "Statement from Congressman Denny Heck following passage of bill to incentivize abusive practices in manufactured housing sales", "2017-12-01", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Denny Heck", "H001064", "dennyheck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 After the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1699, the Preserving Access to Manufactured Homes Act of 2017, U.S. Representative Denny Heck (WA-10) issued the following statement:\n\u201cSupporters of this bill claim this change provides more Americans access to affordable housing, but all it does is make our most vulnerable people subject to more predatory practices that often cause them to lose their home. We\u2019ve seen evidence of this already happening, and endorsing this activity will cause even more heartbreak for aspiring homeowners. \n\u201cPredatory loans, hidden fees, and deceptive lending practices are not a valid part of making the American Dream possible for more families. Let\u2019s work on common sense, bipartisan measures that allow for access to responsible financing towards homeownership, and not take away important protections established by Congress and enforced by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.\u201d\nThe Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act makes two big changes to consumer protections for people buying manufactured homes. It would change the definition of a \u201cmortgage originator\u201d so that salesepeople at manufactured home retailers are exempt from the rules on originators even if those salespeople do the same things loan originators do, like assisting them in applying for credit. The bill would also relax the circumstances where special consumer protections kick in on \"high-cost\" loans under Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act (HOEPA).\u00a0 High-cost is defined as a certain spread above the average prime offering rate (currently 4.25 percent).\u00a0 Right now, these additional protections for kick in for non-mortgage loans at 10.75 percent (6.5 percentage points above APOR), for loans of $50,000 to $75,000, or 12.75 percent (8.5 points above APOR), for loans under $50,000.\u00a0 This bill raises the threshold to 14.25 percent (10 points above APOR) for all non-mortgage manufactured-home loans.\u00a0 The bill would also raise the threshold for high fees that trigger HOEPA protections to the greater of 5 percent of the total transaction amount or $3,000, whichever is greater.\nAccording to Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data, obtained from the Consumer Bureau, this new interest rate trigger would have exempted 58 percent of manufactured home loans originated in 2013 from HOEPA protections.\nA joint investigation by The Seattle Times and Center for Public Integrity found that Clayton Homes, the largest manufactured homebuilder in the United States, trapped low-income borrowers with loans for manufactured homes they could not afford and eventually took away their home.\nHeck is a member of the House Financial Services Committee and voted against the Preserving Access to Manufactured Homes Act of 2015, which passed the House on April 14, 2015. The bill did not pass the Senate.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cantwell-offers-amendment-to-ensure-tax-fairness-protect-middle-class-from-being-taxed-twice-on-their-paychecks", "Cantwell, Menendez, Van Hollen Offer Amendment to Ensure Tax Fairness, Protect Middle Class from Being Taxed Twice on Their Paychecks", "2017-12-01", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.01.17\n    \t\t\t Cantwell, Menendez, Van Hollen Offer Amendment to Ensure Tax Fairness, Protect Middle Class from Being Taxed Twice on Their Paychecks \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, as tax reform takes center stage in Congress, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) offered a provision to keep in place the State and Local Tax (SALT) deductions, protecting taxpayers from paying taxes twice on every dollar they earn.\r\nAs part of their legislation, Republicans have eliminated the SALT deductions for taxpayers to help pay for their massive tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy. Currently, taxpayers pay state and local tax \u2013 whether it\u2019s property, income, or sales tax \u2013 and they are able to deduct that amount from their federal income taxes. Without the SALT deductions, taxpayers would be taxed multiple times on the same income.\r\n\u201cWashington state has one of the most unique tax codes in the country and our economy has grown faster than the national average every year since WWII,\u201d said Senator Cantwell. \u201cGiving away the State and Local Tax Deduction to pay for a corporate tax break will hurt my state\u2019s economy and the more than 1.1 million Washingtonians that use this deduction, the vast majority of whom are in the middle class. We are a great society in the United States of America, but we shouldn't be a one percent society. We should have a tax code that boosts the middle class and grows the economy from the middle out.\u201d\r\n\u201cSenate Republicans are on the verge of passing a tax plan that reads like one giant hit-job on New Jersey\u2019s middle class,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cGutting the state and local tax deduction will literally force millions of hardworking families in states like New Jersey to pay taxes twice on the same money.\u00a0 And Republicans are only rubbing salt in their wounds by letting corporations keep this deduction on top of the all the tax cuts they already get. It\u2019s wrong to ask hardworking families who had to fight their way into the middle class to pay more just so that multinational corporations can pay less.\u201d\u00a0\r\n\u201cThe Republican Tax Bill is a punch in the gut for working American families. One of the biggest blows comes from eliminating the state and local tax deduction,\u201d said Senator Van Hollen. \u201cThis deduction helps millions of people in Maryland and across the country \u2013 and getting rid of it is a direct hit on the pocketbooks the middle class families. It also would tie the hands of state and local governments, which provide critical services in every community across America. This is not a partisan issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.\u201d\r\nThe Cantwell-Menendez-Van Hollen measure would strike the provision to repeal the State and Local Tax Deduction, preventing the proposed Republican plan to raise taxes on middle class families by double-taxing income already taxed at the state or local level. The amendment offsets this change by raising the tax on money that corporations currently hold overseas. The Senators were joined in introducing the amendment by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Tom Udall (D-NM).\r\nFamilies from all 50 states enjoy much-needed tax relief from SALT deductions. According to the Government Finance Officers Association, more than 30 percent of taxpayers benefitted from the SALT deductions, making SALT deductions a key element in providing tax relief to middle class families. Only 21 percent of taxpayers used the deduction for mortgage interest, and 15 percent of taxpayers used the deduction for charitable donations.\r\nAccording to the IRS, 86 percent of taxpayers claiming SALT deductions make under $200,000 and 56 percent of taxpayers claiming the deduction make under $100,000.\r\nIn October, Cantwell and Van Hollen offered an amendment to preserve the SALT deduction during Senate consideration of the FY2017 Budget Resolution.\r\nA copy of the amendment can be found here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-bill-to-improve-safety-and-sanitation-at-columbia-river-tribal-fishing-sites", "Senate Passes Bill to Improve Safety and Sanitation at Columbia River Tribal Fishing Sites", "2017-12-01", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Maria Cantwell", "C000127", "www.cantwell.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.01.17\n    \t\t\t Senate Passes Bill to Improve Safety and Sanitation at Columbia River Tribal Fishing Sites \n    \t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n    \t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 \u00a0With unanimous support, the U.S. Senate has passed the Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act. The legislation, which is sponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), would enable the Bureau of Indian Affairs to make important safety and sanitation improvements at the tribal treaty fishing access sites along the Columbia River, which are on lands held by the United States for the benefit of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes.\r\nThe next step would be for the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the legislation, before being sent to the President for his signature.\r\n\u201cThis is a positive step on our long road to properly honor our obligations to the Columbia River Treaty Tribes,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Murray.\u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s so important that we continue to make progress to provide safe, sanitary housing and infrastructure at these fishing access sites, so tribal members can exercise their protected rights.\u201d\r\n\u201cThese Tribal members\u2019 way of life was washed away when the Bonneville dam went up. Since then, few steps have been taken to right this wrong,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Cantwell.\u00a0\u201cBy improving housing conditions for these Tribes, we can begin to fulfill long-overdue promises. I encourage our House colleagues to quickly take up this bill so we can begin to improve conditions at existing sites\u201d\r\nBeginning in the 1930s, the construction of the three lower Columbia River dams displaced members of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes: Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. These tribes have a treaty-protected right to fish along the Columbia River in their usual and accustomed places.\r\nThe Senators have been fighting to address the urgent need for adequate housing and infrastructure at tribal fishing access sites constructed by the Army Corps following construction of The Dalles, Bonneville, and John Day dams. The Army Corps designed the sites to be used primarily for daily, in-season fishing access and temporary camping; however, in many cases tribal members now use the areas as longer-term or even permanent residences. In fact, many people at these sites are living in extremely distressed, unsafe, and unsanitary conditions, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs has not committed the resources necessary to ensure the basic necessities of clean and safe living conditions at these sites.\r\nWhile the Senators have been working to move forward with a plan that would fulfill the federal government\u2019s unmet obligation to provide permanent replacement housing for tribal members living at the fishing sites, the Trump administration\u2019s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently halted work on that plan. The Senators have pushed OMB to reverse its decision. In the meantime, the delay makes improving conditions at existing sites all the more critical.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nThe Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act\u00a0 would address the urgent need for improved conditions by:\r\n \r\nCalling on the Bureau of Indian Affairs to conduct a much-needed assessment of current safety and sanitation conditions at the sites, in coordination with the affected Columbia River Treaty Tribes; and\r\n \r\n \r\nAuthorizing the Bureau to work on improving sanitation and safety conditions in several key areas such as structural improvements (restrooms, washrooms, and other buildings); safety improvements (wells and infrastructure to address fire concerns, and more); electrical infrastructure to ensure safe electrical hookups; and basic sewer and septic infrastructure.\r\n \r\nThe legislation is supported by the four Columbia River Treaty tribes\u2014Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation\u2014as well as the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=4BAB289E-A828-48CD-B0D3-4EEEB763820A", "Senate Passes Bill to Improve Safety and Sanitation at Columbia River Tribal Fishing Sites", "2017-12-01", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Patty Murray", "M001111", "www.murray.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013\u00a0\u00a0With unanimous support, the U.S. Senate has passed the Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act. The legislation, which is sponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), would enable the Bureau of Indian Affairs to make important safety and sanitation improvements at the tribal treaty fishing access sites along the Columbia River, which are on lands held by the United States for the benefit of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes.\r\nThe next step would be for the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the legislation, before being sent to the President for his signature.\r\n\u201cThis is a positive step on our long road to properly honor our obligations to the Columbia River Treaty Tribes,\u201d said Senator Murray. \u201cIt\u2019s so important that we continue to make progress to provide safe, sanitary housing and infrastructure at these fishing access sites, so tribal members can exercise their protected rights.\u201d\r\n\u201cThese Tribal members\u2019 way of life was washed away when the Bonneville dam went up. Since then, few steps have been taken to right this wrong,\u201d said Senator Cantwell. \u201cBy improving housing conditions for these Tribes, we can begin to fulfill long-overdue promises. I encourage our House colleagues to quickly take up this bill so we can begin to improve conditions at existing sites\u201d\r\nBeginning in the 1930s, the construction of the three lower Columbia River dams displaced members of the four Columbia River Treaty tribes: Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. These tribes have a treaty-protected right to fish along the Columbia River in their usual and accustomed places.\r\nThe Senators have been fighting to address the urgent need for adequate housing and infrastructure at tribal fishing access sites constructed by the Army Corps following construction of The Dalles, Bonneville, and John Day dams. The Army Corps designed the sites to be used primarily for daily, in-season fishing access and temporary camping; however, in many cases tribal members now use the areas as longer-term or even permanent residences. In fact, many people at these sites are living in extremely distressed, unsafe, and unsanitary conditions, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs has not committed the resources necessary to ensure the basic necessities of clean and safe living conditions at these sites.\r\nWhile the Senators have been working to move forward with a plan that would fulfill the federal government\u2019s unmet obligation to provide permanent replacement housing for tribal members living at the fishing sites, the Trump administration\u2019s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently halted work on that plan. The Senators have pushed OMB to reverse its decision. In the meantime, the delay makes improving conditions at existing sites all the more critical.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nThe Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites Improvement Act\u00a0 would address the urgent need for improved conditions by:\r\n \r\nCalling on the Bureau of Indian Affairs to conduct a much-needed assessment of current safety and sanitation conditions at the sites, in coordination with the affected Columbia River Treaty Tribes; and\r\n \r\n \r\nAuthorizing the Bureau to work on improving sanitation and safety conditions in several key areas such as structural improvements (restrooms, washrooms, and other buildings); safety improvements (wells and infrastructure to address fire concerns, and more); electrical infrastructure to ensure safe electrical hookups; and basic sewer and septic infrastructure.\r\n \r\nThe legislation is supported by the four Columbia River Treaty tribes\u2014Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation\u2014as well as the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 1550, "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": "WA", "p2": "2017"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 1550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=WA&year=2017", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 1550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA&year=2017&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "WA", "label": "WA", "count": 1550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2017", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA&year=2017", "results": [{"value": "2017", "label": "2017", "count": 1550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2017-12-01,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Emurray~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2Fnewsreleases~3FContentRecord_id~3D4BAB289E-A828-48CD-B0D3-4EEEB763820A", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=WA&year=2017&_next=2017-12-01%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Emurray~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2Fnewsreleases~3FContentRecord_id~3D4BAB289E-A828-48CD-B0D3-4EEEB763820A&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 234.51710306107998, "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"}