{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://crowley.house.gov/press-release/chairman-crowley-statement-new-year", "Chairman Crowley Statement on the New Year", "2017-12-31", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Joseph Crowley", "C001038", "crowley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  HouseDemocratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-NY) issued the following statement in celebration of the New Year:\nTonight, people across America will gather to celebrate new beginnings and a new year. This is a time to reflect and look ahead to a 2018 full of challenges and opportunities. I wish families in Queens, the Bronx, and across America a happy and healthy New Year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/degette-s-led-bill-clarifies-how-new-lighting-technology-is-regulated", "DeGettes LED Bill Clarifies How New Lighting Technology is Regulated", "2017-12-31", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The U.S. Senate has passed a bill that promotes energy conservation and encourages innovations in LED lighting, authored by Congresswoman Diana DeGette, D-Colo. The bill heads to President Trumps desk to be signed into law.\nThe holiday season will be all the brighter thanks to our bipartisan efforts to speed the nations progress in the use of energy-efficient lighting, DeGette said in a press release. Our countrys conservation standards must remain up to date with the latest developments in high-tech lighting and energy-efficient appliances. This bill will remove roadblocks to progress in LED development and help lower energy costs for American businesses and households.\nDeGettes office said the legislation, theEPS Improvement Act (H.R. 518), clarifies and modernizes energy conservation rules that were established after the Energy Policy Act of 2005. When the law was written, LEDs were not yet on the market; they later came to be classified by the Department of Energy as External Power Supplies (EPS).\nHowever, EPS drivers use a different kind of power conversion design than LEDs. In simpler terms, EPS are generally understood to be devices that connect electronics to plug-loads, such as the detachable cords that provide power to laptops, smart phones and tablets, according to the HouseSubcommittee on Energy and Power.\nLEDs require a constant voltage to work as theyre supposed to, conserving more power than traditional lighting.\nLED is a highly energy efficient lighting technology, and has the potential to fundamentally change the future of lighting in the United States, reports theDepartment of Energy. Residential LEDs  especially ENERGY STAR rated products  use at least 75 percent less energy, and last 25 times longer, than incandescent lighting.\nBy 2027, widespread use of LEDs could save the equivalent annual electrical output of 44 large electric power plants (1000 megawatts each), and a total savings of more than $30 billion at todays electricity prices, the department said.\nAlong with saving energy, LED lights are safer. Take Christmas lights, for example. The department said up to 25 strings of LEDs can be connected end-to-end without overloading a wall socket.\nProponents of the measure said on the House floor that this is pro-manufacturing, pro-consumer legislation that clears up how the Department of Energy regulates the new technology.\nThe Center for Western Prioritiesranked Coloradoas a top state in energy conservation in October, followed by Utah and Wyoming.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://seanmaloney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/maloney-applauds-investments-rebranding-at-new-york-international", "Maloney Applauds Investments, Rebranding at New York International Airport at Stewart Field", "2017-12-31", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Sean Maloney", "M001185", "seanmaloney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newburgh, NY Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) released the following statement after Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that Stewart International Airport will receive $34 million in investments and be renamed \"New York International at Stewart Field.\" Investments will establish a permanent federal inspection station for international travel and provide funding for additional enhancements.\n\n \n\t\"Weve been working on renaming Stewart and making these other improvements for some time and I'm thrilled that the Governor is taking charge and making things happen. Renaming the airport will make it more attractive to travelers, and making keyinvestments in New York Internationalwill meet the increasing demand for travel options and help grow our regional economy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-releases-2018-annual-report", "Rep. Sewell Releases 2018 Annual Report", "2017-12-31", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) has released her offices annual report for 2018. The report reviews Rep. Sewells work and accomplishments from 2017, both in the district and in Congress, and announces goals for the coming year.\nThe full 2018 Annual Report from Congresswoman Terri Sewell is available here\nMy annual report gives constituents an easy-to-follow guide to what we accomplished together this year in Alabamas 7th Congressional District, said Rep. Terri Sewell. Things got off to an early start in January, when President Obama signed a proclamation designating the Birmingham Civil Rights District as a national monument. This was also my first year serving on the House Ways and Means Committee, where I defended access to affordable healthcare and worked to refocus the GOP tax bill on benefits for working families.\nThis past year, my office remained focused on creating better opportunities and providing more resources to Alabamas 7th District. We hosted over 92 district events in 2017, including town hall meetings, forums, workshops, and industry tours. We also responded to over 10,750 pieces of constituent correspondence, completed over 470 case work files and sponsored our 6th Annual Job Fair, connecting over 600 job seekers with over 60 major employers.\nIn addition to providing details on Rep. Sewells fight to promote job growth, protect health care, and strengthen democratic institutions, the report provides statistics on Rep. Sewells constituent services. This years annual report shows that Rep. Sewells office secured over $650 million in federal grants for the district and helped constituents recover more than $1.3 million in benefits owed to them by the federal government.\nRead the full 2018 Annual Report from Congresswoman Terri Sewell\n###\nRep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) is serving her fourth term representing Alabamas 7th Congressional district. She sits on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and was recently appointed to the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Sewell is a Chief Deputy Whip and serves on the prestigious Steering and Policy Committee of the Democratic Caucus. She is also a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, and Vice Chair of Outreach for the New Democrat Coalition.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-terri-sewell-and-jeff-duncan-place-friendly-bipartisan-wager", "Reps. Terri Sewell and Jeff Duncan Place Friendly Bipartisan Wager on Alabama vs. Clemson Sugar Bowl", "2017-12-31", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  As the University of Alabama and Clemson University compete in the NCAA College Football Playoff, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03) made a friendly wager on which team would advance to the championship. At stake  Chic-fil-a and bragging rights. The game on Monday, January 1, will be the third postseason matchup of Alabama and Clemson in three years. Alabama beat Clemson for the 2015 season title, and lost to Clemson in the 2016 national championship.\nThere will be no better way to kick off the New Year than an Alabama win over Clemson, said Rep. Terri Sewell. My friend Rep. Jeff Duncan is no chicken  hes agreed to a wager of Chic-fil-A and to a picture wearing the crimson and white if Clemson loses. Given Alabamas unparalleled record of 16 national championships, the Crimson Tide is destined to bring home another title this season. There could be nothing sweeter than a victory over Clemson at this years Sugar Bowl. Roll Tide!\nIf the University of Alabamas Crimson Tide secures a victory, Congressman Duncan has agreed to wear the trademark Bear Bryant houndstooth hat and an Alabama necktie for a photo on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, and will provide Chic-fil-A for the Congresswoman and her office.\nShould Clemson Universitys Tigers win, Congresswoman Sewell has agreed to treat Congressman Duncans office to Chic-fil-A and will pose for a picture on the U.S. Capitol steps dressed in Clemson apparel.\nThis is the third year that Reps. Sewell and Duncan have bet over the Alabama vs. Clemson game. Pictures of Reps. Sewell and Duncan following the 2015 season and 2016 season wagers are available here.\n###\nRep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) is serving her fourth term representing Alabamas 7th Congressional district. She sits on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and was recently appointed to the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Sewell is a Chief Deputy Whip and serves on the prestigious Steering and Policy Committee of the Democratic Caucus. She is also a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, and Vice Chair of Outreach for the New Democrat Coalition.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=00169A00-D350-8797-D8E0-43755EA598D9", "Bennet Statement on Douglas County Shooting", "2017-12-31", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Michael Bennet", "B001267", "www.bennet.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "DENVER, CO - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today issued the following statement in response to reports of an officer-involved shooting in Douglas County:\r\n\"Our prayers are with the families of the deputy who was killed and the other officers injured in the line of duty. We are deeply grateful for the bravery of our law enforcement-and honor their sacrifice-as they work each day to protect our communities and keep us safe.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/age-trump-cicilline-plays-key-role-leading-house-dems-delivering-results-ri", "In Age of Trump, Cicilline Plays Key Role Leading House Dems, Delivering Results for RI", "2017-12-30", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "RI", "David Cicilline", "C001084", "cicilline.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "PAWTUCKET  Both as a member of the House Democratic Leadership team, and as the top Democrat on the House Antitrust Subcommittee, Congressman David N. Cicilline (RI-1) has spent the past year helping to shape the national discourse about the challenges facing working Americans. Even as President Trump ushers in an era of unprecedented uncertainty in Washington, Cicilline has continued to deliver results for the people he serves.\nBelow are the highlights of Congressman Cicillines work in 2017:\nLEADING DEMOCRATS IN THE AGE OF TRUMP\nShortly after President Trumps election, Congressman Cicilline was elected by the House Democratic Caucus to serve as Co-Chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC). In that role, Cicilline was one of three House members, along with U.S. Reps. Cheri Bustos (IL-17) and Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8), to craft a new Democratic economic agenda  A Better Deal: Better Jobs, Better Wages, Better Future.\nA Better Deal outlines a series of proposals that Democrats will pass when they take back the majority next year, including plans to lower the cost of prescription drugs, break up corporate monopolies, protect the right to organize and form a union, and create 10 million new full-time, good-paying jobs. As the first Rhode Islander to serve in the House Democratic Leadership since Patrick Kennedy, Cicilline will continue using his seat at the table to ensure that Democrats address the most important issues facing men and women across our state.\nSEIZING AMERICAS MONOPOLY MOMENT\nThis year also marked the first time that Congressman Cicilline has served as the top Democrat on the House Antitrust Subcommittee. In this role, he has worked relentlessly to highlight the ways that corporate monopolies eliminate jobs, raise costs on consumers, and limit competition in the marketplace. At a time of runaway consolidation, its clear that America is in A Monopoly Moment.\nThats why, earlier this month, Cicilline joined U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison to introduce the 21st Century Competition Commission Act to create a new government agency charged with investigating the impact of corporate mergers and increasing market concentration. Cicilline has also spoken out and raised concerns about the impact of recent mega-mergers in the retail, entertainment, and telecommunications industries.\nFINALLY, PROGRESS ON PREVENTING GUN VIOLENCE\nAs a longtime champion of gun violence prevention, Congressman Cicilline understands the importance of ensuring that children and families can live free from the threat of gun violence. This year, his Unlawful Gun Buyer Alert Act passed the House as part of a larger package of gun violence proposals.\nCicillines proposal requires that local law enforcement agencies be notified when an individual with a criminal record, or a history of serious mental health problems, is able to purchase a gun because of an error in the background check system. Now pending before the U.S. Senate, this marks the first time in years that either chamber of Congress has passed a bill to prevent gun violence.\nGREATER TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN GOVERNMENT\nEarlier this year, Congressman Cicilline successfully led the effort to update how Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funds are used. OCO funds are supposed to be used for war expenditures, but they have increasingly been used wastefully for non-war purposes, such as the F-35 program. The lack of oversight has led many critics to term the system a slush fund.\nAs a result of legislation proposed by Congressman Cicilline earlier this year, the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes a new requirement that the Pentagon update provisions regarding the use of OCO funds for the first time since 2010.\nPROTECTING HEALTH CARE FOR RHODE ISLANDERS\nThroughout 2017, as Republicans attempted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Congressman Cicilline led the effort in Rhode Island to rally support for the law. Along with Senator Reed, Senator Whitehouse, and Congressman Langevin, Cicilline hosted a series of events throughout Rhode Island to highlight the benefits the law has provided for seniors, young people, parents, and many more.\nEarlier this month, as Republicans again attempted to unravel the framework of the law, Cicilline hosted an event to encourage Rhode Islanders to sign up for health insurance. No matter what Republicans in Washington try to do, Congressman Cicilline will continue working to ensure that all Rhode Islanders can access quality, affordable health care.\nGETTING SECRET CORPORATE MONEY OUT OF POLITICS\nWashington wont work for the people it serves until we end the influence that huge corporations and powerful special interests have in our nations capital. Earlier this year, Congressman Cicilline introduced the DISCLOSE Act, which is co-sponsored by 129 of his colleagues in the House, to require corporations to disclose their political spending, and to prohibit foreign corporations from spending any money to influence American politics.\nCicilline has also introduced the SUN Act to require that secretive political organizations be required to disclose their activities in an online database. As a co-sponsor of the Government by the People Act, he has also worked to empower small-dollar donors by working to establish a fund that will match contributions under $150 at a ratio of 6 to 1.\nMAKING IT IN AMERICA\nCongressman Cicilline knows that if we want to raise wages and create more opportunities for Rhode Islanders to get ahead, we have to support American manufacturing jobs. Thats why he has continued to lead the fight to pass the Make it in America Manufacturing Communities Act to provide federal resources to regions like ours to support the growth of manufacturing.\nAnd although Republicans cut taxes for huge corporations this year, Congressman Cicilline is continuing to lead the effort in the House to end incentives that encourage those corporations to move American jobs overseas. The Offshoring Prevention Act, which Senator Whitehouse is leading in the Senate, will rewrite the tax codes to put American workers, not CEOs, first.\nBY THE NUMBERS\n$241.6 million  Congressman Cicilline has worked hard throughout his time in office to bring back federal resources to Rhode Islands First District, including more than $240 million in federal grants and appropriations over the past year.\n910  Congressman Cicilline believes Rhode Islanders deserve a government that is smart, effective, and knows how to get things done for the people it serves. Over the past year, his office has completed 910 requests for assistance  helping Rhode Islanders cut through red tape at the VA, IRS and other federal agencies.\n65  As part of his aggressive outreach strategy, Congressman Cicilline hosted or arranged 81 events with constituents in Rhode Islands 1st Congressional District during the 114th Congress.  \n33  Nearly three dozen young Rhode Islanders had the opportunity to work as interns this year in Congressman Cicillines office.\n39,640  Congressman Cicilline prides himself on being responsive and attentive to his constituents, and his office has replied to 39,640 inquiries on policy issues over the past year.\n118  Cicilline arranged 118 tours of the U.S. Capitol for Rhode Islanders visiting Washington.\n41  Over the course of 2017, Congressman Cicilline introduced 41 bills and co-sponsored another 426, including three proposals that President Trump signed into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tester.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=5609", "Tester Announces Bozeman Sixth-Grader Will Light U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree [press_release]", "2017-12-30", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MT", "Jon Tester", "T000464", "www.tester.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", ".(U.S. Senate) - U.S. Senator Jon Tester today announced that he has selected Bozeman sixth-grader Ridley Brandmayr to light the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree at the annual holiday ceremony in Washington, D.C., on December 6. As the senior Senator from the tree's state, Tester is tasked with selecting the tree lighter and helping organize this year's celebration.  \"Ridley has shown incredible strength, determination, perseverance, and passion,\" said Tester. \"Ridley will represent Montana well and I look forward to celebrating this Christmas season with the Brandmayr family and every Montanan.\"\nThe public is invited to celebrate the lighting of the \"People's Tree\" on:\nU.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting CeremonyDecember 6 | 6 p.m.West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol  Washington D.C.\nEarlier this year, Ridley tragically lost all of the fingers on his right hand in an accident.  Despite the accident, Ridley has continued swimming and playing music. Tester, a former music teacher, lost three fingers on his left hand when he was a child.\n\"I'm grateful for this opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. and light the Capitol Christmas tree,\" said Ridley, 11, who enjoys hunting, fishing, swimming and playing his cello. \"I am honored that Senator Tester reached out to me, and I'm excited to represent Montana.\" The Kootenai National Forest and Choose Outdoors are sponsoring the ceremony, which is free, and open to the public. Montana supplied the nation's tree in 2008 and 1989.\nThe U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree kicked off its journey in Yaak, Montana on December 8. It will betraveling 3,000 miles from the Kootenai National Forest in northwest Montana to Washington, D.C. by way of Whitewood Transport, a Billings-based trucking company.And folks in Big Sky Country will have a chance to see the tree as it stops in 12 different cities across Montana this week. \nYou can track the tree HERE, the schedule of stops is below.\nMonday, Nov. 13:\n \nEureka, MT11:00 a.m. |Eureka Town Hall | 11 Dewey Avenue\nWhitefish, MT2:30 pm | Don K Whitefish Dealership | 6219 Highway 93 South\n \n   Tuesday, Nov. 14: \n \nLibby, MT9:00 a.m. | Libby High School | 150 Education Way\nTroy, MT11:30 a.m. | Troy Museum | 141 St. Regis Haul Rd. \nTrout Creek, MT3:30 pm | 11 Park Street\n \n   Wednesday, Nov. 15:\n   Thursday, Nov. 16: \n \nHelena, MT11:00 a.m. | 1301 E 6th Ave between Montana Ave | Roberts Street\nGreat Falls, MT6:00 p.m. | Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center | 4201 Giant Springs Road\n \n   Friday, Nov. 17: \n   Saturday, Nov. 18: \n \nGlendive, MT8:00 a.m. | Albertsons parking lot | 307 Harmon Street\n \nFor more information on the U.S. Captiol Christmas Tree, you can visit its WEBSITE or follow the tree on FACEBOOK and TWITTER.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.warren.senate.gov?p=news&id=2125", "Springfield Republican: US Sens. Ed Markey, Elizabeth Warren look to block GOP tax plan's Arctic drilling language", "2017-12-30", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Elizabeth Warren", "W000817", "www.warren.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Sens. Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, pushed back Thursday against language added to the Senate Republican tax plan that could open up Alaska's Arctic Refuge to oil drilling.\nMarkey accused Senate Republicans of trying to \"ram through\" the controversial provision as a rider to the GOP tax bill, noting that several lawmakers oppose drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.\nWarren, who joined her Massachusetts Senate colleague in opposing the provision, urged Americans to help Democrats fight back against the proposal.\nRead more on the Springfield Republican website here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395098", "LOEBSACK, CRAMER, EMMER, PETERSON, NOEM INTRODUCE BILL FIXING ARC COMMODITY SUPPORT PROGRAM", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "IA", "Dave Loebsack", "L000565", "loebsack.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A coalition of rural House members from the Midwest introduced a bipartisan bill to fix the flawed Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) Program. Reps. Dave Loebsack (D-Iowa), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Collin Peterson (D-Minn.), and Kristi Noem (R-S.D.) introduced H.R.4654, a bill requiring the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) when computing average county yields for the purposes of the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) Program.  The 2014 Farm Bill included two new programs for covered commodities, Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), allowing the producer to choose once per farm bill which policy they believe would provide the most effective safety net. In implementing the program, USDA elected to rely on National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) data from producer surveys to determine the yield variable for ARC rather than other more trusted data sources, most notably from USDAs Risk Management Agency (RMA). H.R.4654 would direct the Secretary to prioritize RMA data over all other forms in counties where RMA offers county-wide insurance products, while also allowing the Secretary of Agriculture flexibility for all other instances. Additionally, the legislation codifies USDAs earlier decision to operate the program based on the physical location of the base acres, rather than requiring producers to elect one county for all payments.  During my travels across the state and in meetings with farmers, I consistently hear about the difficulty they face with Agriculture Risk Coverage, said Loebsack. I am proud to have worked in a bipartisan way to address these problems as we move towards crafting the 2018 Farm Bill. Even though it is anticipated most producers will utilize the Price Loss Coverage going forward, our legislation provides a surgical fix to ARC in case the program is reauthorized in the next Farm Bill, said Cramer. Ahead of the 2018 Farm Bill, Im pleased to see our bipartisan coalition of rural members coming together again, like we did for the last farm bill, to find solutions that work for our producers. \"As Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee, Im working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve existing farm bill programs. While Ive never been a fan of ARC I do believe we can make improvements to its data sources that will give producers more confidence in the program. This bill is a good starting point for reauthorizing the farm bill next year, said Peterson.  The commodity program is critical for a number of reasons, said Noem. First and foremost, it provides an important safety net to producers. Additionally, by building safety-net programs, like ARC-County, into the budget rather than doing crisis-by-crisis emergency spending, we can better predict financial needs and avoid deficit spending. The 2014 Farm Bill made a number of important reforms to the program, but improvements are needed to make sure it functions as intended. Im optimistic the adjustments included in our legislation will make this critical safety net stronger and fairer. Click here to read the bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/news-articles/could-2018-be-the-year-of-investigations", "Could 2018 be the year of investigations?", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Could 2018 be the year of investigations? \nIts hard to believe, but it hasnt even been a year since Donald Trump took the oath of office to become President of the United States.\nBut 11 months, ten days, and more than 2,400 tweets later, here we are.\nWell here we go. Put your seat belt on -- its been an interesting first year, said Rudy DeLeon with The Center for American Progress, looking back on Trumps presidency.\nBut its also time to look ahead to 2018 -- a year some believe could defined by investigations.\nSpecial counsel Robert Muellers isstill going strong, already resulting in charges against three former Trump campaign officials and a guilty plea by former National Security Agency Director Michael Flynn.\nDemocrats on Capitol Hill are hoping the investigation continues in as thorough a manner as possible.\nI am standing with Mueller. I am so comfortable standing with him, I signed on to a letter of support for him, said Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, in a recent interview.\nRepublicans are calling for many more answers as well.\nSen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., in a tweet called for an investigation into Obama administration officials he says may have colluded to prevent a Trump election.\nOther GOP lawmakerswant to know whether Hillary Clinton got special treatmentby the FBI during the investigation into her emails.\nMy constituents say what is going on in the investigation into crimes of the previous administration, said Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., during a Capitol Hill hearing in July.\nWASHINGTON (SBG) Its hard to believe, but it hasnt even been a year since Donald Trump took the oath of office to become President of the United States.\nBut 11 months, ten days, and more than 2,400 tweets later, here we are.\n\nWell here we go. Put your seat belt on -- its been an interesting first year, said Rudy DeLeon with The Center for American Progress, looking back on Trumps presidency.\nBut its also time to look ahead to 2018 -- a year some believe could defined by investigations.\nSpecial counsel Robert Muellers isstill going strong, already resulting in charges against three former Trump campaign officials and a guilty plea by former National Security Agency Director Michael Flynn.\nDemocrats on Capitol Hill are hoping the investigation continues in as thorough a manner as possible.\nI am standing with Mueller. I am so comfortable standing with him, I signed on to a letter of support for him, said Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, in a recent interview.\nRepublicans are calling for many more answers as well.\nSen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., in a tweet called for an investigation into Obama administration officials he says may have colluded to prevent a Trump election.\n \n\t\n \nMy constituents say what is going on in the investigation into crimes of the previous administration, said Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., during a Capitol Hill hearing in July.\nThe conservative watchdog group Judicial Watchis also behind multiple lawsuits looking into connections between the Democratic National Committee, The Clinton campaign and Fusion GPS,the group behind the infamous Trump dossier.\nThe more we have learned the more questions there are, said Judicial Watch Senior Attorney James Peterson\nTheyre questions that may spur even more investigations.\nDemocrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill, seem to be united on at least one matter - they say they are all just trying to get to the heart of the truth.\nThis article was originally published by WJLA on December 29, 2017.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bera.house.gov/media-center/amis-updates/email-update-serving-you-in-2017", "Email update: Serving you in 2017", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ami Bera", "B001287", "bera.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "I sent an email update earlier in December to give an update on how my office has been servin you in 2017. Join my email updates now so you don't miss any others in the future!\n    \n\tFriend  As 2017 comes to a close, I wanted to send an update on how my office has been Making Government Work for Sacramento County. My office has long prioritized helping you however we can by cutting through bureaucratic red tape. We can assist with backlogged veterans benefits, Social Security and Medicare issues, stalled tax refunds, and more. Im pleased to share that as of this December,weve helped more than 9,000 Sacramento County residentswith these issues andreturned more than $4.6 million dollarsowed to local taxpayers. Ive been honored to be able to help so many local residents. Here are some of their stories. If you need help, please feel free to call us at (916) 635-0505 or visit bera.house.gov/gethelp to learn more. Meet Courtney: A Local Mother Who Needed to Attend Her Grandmothers Funeral    Courtney lives in Folsom with her young family and came to my office looking for help. Courtneys grandmother had sadly passed away in Canada and she wanted to take her infant daughter along to attend the funeral. She had earlier applied for new passports, but now she needed them much more quickly to go on her trip and she was concerned they wouldnt arrive in time. Needless to say, it was an emotional time for her family. After hearing Courtneys story, my office got right to work. We followed up with the State Department and learned a mistake was made processing Courtneys request. We worked with the State Department to expedite Courtneys case and she received her passports just two days later. She and her family were able to make the trip and pay their respects to her grandmother. My staff is here to help constituents in their time of need, and I am glad we could help Courtney and her family. Meet Sal: A Vietnam War Veteran Undergoing Cancer Treatment\n\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSal circa 1970-1971, while serving in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam.\n\t\t\t\nSal is a Carmichael native and an Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War. Sal was diagnosed with prostate cancer related to his exposure to Agent Orange. He decided to use his Department of Veterans Affairs benefits to pay for his medicine and started responding positively to treatment. Unfortunately, Sal later received tests that his cancer had returned. It was a very stressful time for Sal and his finances. During this second treatment period, the VA had not yet provided Sal with his back-pay benefits, adding to his stress. As the bills mounted, Sal contacted my office to help with his VA disability claim  we got right to work. It turned out that while Sal was approved for his back-pay, the VA had never actually sent his benefits. My office contacted the VA about expediting Sals benefits and the situation was resolved within a month. As a doctor who has helped care for veterans, I know how much our vets sacrifice for our country  its critical we are there to support these heroes. Meet Steve: A local doctor who was owed thousands by the IRS Steve lives in Sacramento with his family and cares for people throughout our region as a doctor. This year Steve filed his taxes in March, well ahead of the filing deadline. He was owed a substantial tax refund, so he waited to hear back from the IRS. ButSteve was stonewalled by bureaucratic red tape. The IRS told him they wouldnt process his tax return until he provided a proof of identity, multiple past tax returns, and even more supporting documents on his claim. The IRS also told him that he had to come to the regional IRS building for an in-person interview. Steve is regularly called into surgery on short notice to help patients and couldnt take a day off. That was when Steve contacted my office, and my staff got to work. We followed up with the IRS and were able to help resolve the situation and send Steve his refund. As a doctor, Steve serves our community in many ways. We need to make sure that government is working for all taxpayers so that everyone can get ahead. Were here to help local families however we can. If you need help, please call us at (916) 635-0505 or visit bera.house.gov/gethelp. Be well,\n  Ami Bera, M.D.  Member of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/dingell-clyburn-wilson-wager-outback-bowl-game", "Dingell, Clyburn, Wilson Wager on Outback Bowl Game", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  With bowl season in full swing, U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Jim Clyburn (SC-06) and Joe Wilson (SC-02) today wagered on whether the University of Michigan Wolverines or the University of South Carolina Gamecocks would win in Mondays Outback Bowl Game.\n\nDingell is wagering items from Zingermans Deli while Clyburn is wagering a basket of goodies from South Carolina and Wilson is offering up some South Carolina barbecue.\n\nCoach Harbaugh and the Wolverines are laser focused on bringing home a win on New Years Day, said Dingell. The Gamecocks may be playing closer to home, but Michigan fans are energized and ready for a rematch of the 2013 Outback Bowl. Were looking forward to celebrating a Michigan victory on Monday. Go Blue!\n\nWe are looking forward to enjoying some Zingermans Deli after another Gamecock victory in this years Outback Bowl, said Clyburn. Go South Carolina!\n\nWe are grateful for the Gamecocks continued success, we are excited to see them back in the Outback Bowl, and we look forward to another victory over Michigan, said Congressman Wilson.\n\nThe Outback Bowl will kick off at 12 p.m. EST on January 1st from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://defazio.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/defazio-capuano-request-ptc-status-update-from-chao-plan-to-introduce", "DeFazio, Capuano Request PTC Status Update from Chao, Plan to Introduce PTC Legislation in January", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Peter DeFazio", "D000191", "defazio.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Ranking Member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR) and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Michael Capuano (D-MA) sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao requesting a detailed status update on where the railroads are in fully implementing critical Positive Train Control (PTC) technology and when railroads will meet the PTC implementation deadline.\nWe believe it is high time that the railroads implement PTC. It has been nearly a decade since passage of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, which required freight, commuter, and intercity passenger railroads to implement PTC by December 31, 2015. That deadline was later extended to December 31, 2018. We understand that PTC is complex but there is no excuse for it taking this long and for some railroads to be lagging so far behind, as indicated in the progress reports submitted to the Federal Railroad Administration, wrote the Members.\nAccording to the Federal Railroad Administrations (FRA) website, only seven railroads will not meet the 2018 deadline. However, many railroads have failed to progress in equipping locomotives, completing track segments, installing radio towers, training employees, acquiring spectrum, installing back office servers, and submitting safety plans for FRAs review and approval.\nWhile the Rail Safety Improvement Act allowed DOT to extend the PTC deadline for up to 24 months if the railroads meet certain criteria that Congress insisted upon, the extension was intended to be used in limited circumstances. However, a new graphic on the FRA website seems to suggest that the Department of Transportation is tracking railroad efforts to meet the 2020 extension rather than holding them accountable for meeting the 2018 deadline.\nDeFazio and Capuano will introduce legislation in early January to address the significant funding gap for PTC and to push the railroads to implement PTC.\nA full copy of the letter is below.\n\n\n\n\nDecember 28, 2017\n\nThe Honorable Elaine Chao\nSecretary\nU.S. Department of Transportation\n1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE\nWashington, DC 20590\n\nDear Secretary Chao:\n\nOn December 18, Amtrak Cascades Train 501, operating from Seattle to Portland, derailed south of Tacoma, killing three people and injuring numerous others. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the lead investigator of the accident, the train was traveling approximately 80 miles per hour into a 30 mile-per-hour curve.\nThe circumstances surrounding this accident are eerily similar to the tragic 2015 derailment of an Amtrak Northeast Regional train in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, killing eight people and injuring more than 200 others, 11 critically. Within days of the accident, the NTSB announced that it would not have occurred had Positive Train Control (PTC) been operational on the line. While we do not yet know whether the Tacoma accident was PTC-preventable, it once again demonstrates the need for implementing PTC now.\nSince 1969, the NTSB has investigated 151 accidents that would not have occurred had PTC been installed. These accidents resulted in 298 fatalities and 6,763 injuries (see attached). PTC has been on the NTSBs Most Wanted List of safety improvements since its inception in 1990.                                                                                \nWe believe it is high time that the railroads implement PTC. It has been nearly a decade since passage of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-432) which required freight, commuter, and intercity passenger railroads to implement PTC by December 31, 2015. That deadline was later extended to December 31, 2018. We understand that PTC is complex but there is no excuse for it taking this long and for some railroads to be lagging so far behind, as indicated in the progress reports submitted to the Federal Railroad Administration.\nAccording to your website, only seven railroads will not meet the 2018 deadline: Trinity Rail Express in Texas (2019), Canadian National (2020), Central Florida Rail Corridor (2020), CSX (2020), Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (2020), Norfolk Southern (2020), and Metra in Illinois (2020)[1]. We find that hard to believe given the lack of progress by a host of other railroads in equipping locomotives, completing track segments, installing radio towers, training employees, acquiring spectrum, installing back office servers, and submitting safety plans for FRAs review and approval.[2] For example, Long Island Railroad, Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District, Consolidated Rail Corporation, Maryland Area Regional Commuter MARC trains, New Mexico Rail Runner Express, New Jersey Transit, Altamont Corridor Express, South Florida Regional Transportation (Tri-Rail), Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and Nashville Regional Transportation Authority are among a host of railroads that are significantly behind, but have projected a 2018 final implementation date in FRA-submitted reports.\nAlthough the law allows you to extend the deadline for up to 24 months if the railroads meet certain criteria that we insisted upon, Congress always intended this extension to be used in limited circumstances. Yet a new graphic on your website seems to suggest that the Department of Transportation is tracking railroad efforts to meet the 2020 extension rather than holding them accountable for meeting the 2018 deadline.\nGiven the confusing and seemingly out-of-date information on your website, we request a detailed status update on where the railroads are in fully implementing PTC and when they will finally meet the mandate. We also request a briefing from you and your staff on this issue in the early part of January.\nIn addition, we strongly urge you to include robust funding in any infrastructure or other package the Administration sends to the Hill to help the commuter and intercity passenger railroads implement PTC. In 2016, the American Public Transportation Association estimated that PTC implementation would cost the commuter rail industry more than $3.5 billion, yet only $25 million was requested in the Presidents FY2018 Budget for a rail safety and infrastructure program that we created in the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation Act, which includes PTC as an eligible project. Congress has also only appropriated $285 million for PTC, although we have long fought for more funding. We urge you to provide additional funding to help meet their needs. In the interim, we plan to introduce legislation in early January to address the significant funding gap and push the railroads to implement PTC.\n\nSincerely,\n\n\n\n\nPETER DeFAZIO MICHAEL CAPUANO\nRanking Member Ranking Member\nCommittee on Transportation and  Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and\nInfrastructure   Hazardous Materials\n\n\n\n--30--", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gottheimer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=502", "Gottheimer Works to Save NJ Taxpayers, Shares IRS Guidance on Property Tax Prepayment with Mayors, Council", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Josh Gottheimer", "G000583", "gottheimer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Earlier this week, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) urged New Jersey mayors to take swift action to help residents save on assessed taxes in the face of the oncoming Tax Hike Bill. Gottheimer will continue looking for any path to save taxpayers money and continues to look for ways to cut taxes.On Wednesday, he shared the following letter with Fifth District mayors and council members regarding prepayment of property taxes assessed for 2018: Dear Mayor -- I am proud to stand with you to save taxpayers money in every way we can  from fighting to get North Jersey a better return on the dollars we have already sent to Washington to preventing the Tax Hike Bills assault on our state and key deductions. Today, that means acting quickly to allow for property tax prepayments to help New Jersey taxpayers. As you know, the recently enacted Tax Hike Bill, P.L.115-97, significantly revises the Tax Act of 1986, and among its provisions, drastically diminishes the ability for states like ours to deduct state and local taxes (SALT). Its expected to hit our property values and other states are already trying to lure our businesses away. However, there is an important caveat: the changes, based on guidance weve received, specifically does not prohibit prepayment of state property taxes. Since many taxpayers will not be permitted to deduct all of their property taxes in 2018 and beyond, I urge you to act quickly,  so taxpayers in your town can prepay assessed property taxes this week  and potentially save significantly on their federal tax bill. As promised, as soon as the Tax Hike Bill was passed, I asked the IRS for guidance regarding prepayment.  My office just received a response from the IRS. Their guidance suggests  coupled with formally posted guidance  that New Jersey taxpayers can prepay their 2018 property taxes and temporarily avoid this disastrous provision of the Tax Hike Bill. The IRS advised that, In general, whether a taxpayer is allowed a deduction for the prepayment of state or local real property taxes in 2017 depends on whether the taxpayer makes the payment in 2017 and the real property taxes are assessed prior to 2018. A prepayment of anticipated real property taxes that have not been assessed prior to 2018 are not deductible in 2017. State or local law determines whether and when a property tax is assessed, which is generally when the taxpayer becomes liable for the property tax imposed. The IRS note to my office added, The new legislation specifically prohibits receiving a tax benefit in 2017 for the pre-payment of 2018 income taxes.  We were concerned this might apply to property taxes as well, but it does not. In New York State, Governor Cuomo issued an emergency executive order last Friday facilitating prepayments in that state. You can read more about New Yorks emergency order here. News reports indicate that Governor Christie is planning a similar executive action and I have contacted him to urge swift action and clarity for towns in North Jersey. Similarly, I am urging you to act quickly on behalf of our shared constituents. I strongly recommend that each town and county look at its rules to determine whether it can accept property taxes due in 2018 and take any steps necessary to authorize prepayment. I believe it is critical to inform and advise taxpayers to pay taxes they are allowed to pay before December 31, 2017, if they will be entitled to the benefit of the deduction. We need to save on taxes wherever possible, particularly in the face of this tax hike on our residents. Please let me know if you plan to take action on prepayment. My team is prepared to act quickly to help get the word out, as it is in many taxpayers best interest to prepay to preserve their ability to deduct these taxes on their 2017 federal tax returns. A couple  of caveats: some taxpayers may not benefit from prepayment  for example if they do not itemize their deductions. Some, but not all, taxpayers who pay alternative minimum tax (AMT) may also be denied the benefit for additional payments of state and local tax deduction. Therefore, I strongly recommend that you advise taxpayers to seek their own independent, professional advice on any issues related to the Tax Hike Bill. Thank you for acting quickly for the good of local residents and businesses. This is about fighting for North Jersey and leaving no stone unturned to save more money for our towns and taxpayers. Please feel free to call 201-***-**** with any questions or email me at *****@mail.house.gov. Happy New Year and thank you very much for all you do. Yours, Josh Gottheimer", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://raskin.house.gov/media/in-the-news/view-national-shield-law-press", "A view of a national shield law for the press", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MD", "Jamie Raskin", "R000606", "raskin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Some weeks back I decided to sit in on the House Judiciary Committee hearing with Attorney General (AG) Jeff Sessions. Having attended previous Congressional hearings with the Attorney General as the key witness, I didn't expect much in terms of new or enlightening testimony regarding the Russian meddling in our election probe and I was certainly not disappointed or, rather, pleasantly surprised by his testimony or lack thereof.\nRead more here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://stephaniemurphy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=589", "Rep. Murphy Challenges Rep. Rogers to a Friendly Wager Over UCF-Auburn Peach Bowl Game", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Stephanie Murphy", "M001202", "stephaniemurphy.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy of Winter Park, Fla., has challenged Congressman Mike Rogers of Anniston, Ala., to a friendly wager over the outcome of the 2018 Peach Bowl game between the undefeated University of Central Florida (UCF) Knights and the Auburn University Tigers. Murphy is the representative of Floridas seventh congressional districthome of UCFwhile Rogers represents Alabamas third congressional districthome of Auburn University. The Peach Bowl is scheduled to take place on New Years Day in Atlanta, Ga.When asked to comment on the challenge, Murphy exclaimed: Charge On! When contacted for a response, Rogers declared: War Eagle!  The terms of the wager are as followed: \tIf UCF wins, Rogers must deliver a bucket of Florida oranges to Murphys office while carrying a classic UCF football helmet. \tIf Auburn wins, Murphy must continue one of Auburn Universitys richest traditions and roll the small oak tree from the Toomers Corner oak lineage on the lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The loser of the wager must execute the wager upon his or her return to the nations capital in January 2018. The act will be filmed and shared on social media for all to enjoy (or endure). ###\r\nU.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy represents Floridas Seventh Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she serves on the House Armed Services Committee and Small Business Committee. The district includes all of Seminole County and much of northern Orange County, including downtown Orlando, Maitland, Winter Park, and the University of Central Florida. Previously, Murphy was a businesswoman and college instructor who also served as a national security specialist in the Office of the Secretary of Defense where she received numerous awards for her distinguished service, including the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Civilian Service. Murphy lives in Winter Park with her husband and two children.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-maxine-waters-honors-legacy-della-reese", "Congresswoman Maxine Waters Honors Legacy of Della Reese", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Maxine Waters", "W000187", "waters.house.gov", "waters", "https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "LOS ANGELES \u2013 Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), released the following statement honoring the late Della Reese whose life and legacy will be celebrated in a memorial service on Saturday, December 30, 2017 in Los Angeles:\n\n\"I was deeply saddened to learn of my dear friend Della Reese's passing last month. Della was a living legend and a woman of extraordinary talent, blessed with one of the most iconic voices of our time and a career that spanned several decades. While of course it was that powerful and distinct voice that earned her acclaim very early in her career, it was Della's dynamic acting ability in various film and television projects, most notably the successful primetime series, \u2018Touched by an Angel,' that endeared her to millions of new fans who saw in Della's character their own loving mother, friend, or guiding mentor helping to navigate them through life's many trials and tribulations. Della's work on that series was very much aligned with her personal life and work as an ordained minister in my district at the Understanding Principles for Better Living \u2018UP' Church in Inglewood, California \u2013 a ministry she steadfastly maintained by taking frequent flights between Inglewood and Salt Lake City, Utah where \u2018Touched by an Angel' was filmed.\n\n\"I am very proud to have had the opportunity to know Della and experience firsthand her devotion to the church, her ministry, and ensuring our community's young people understood their place and history. Della was the beneficiary of strong women role models from her mother to Mahalia Jackson who mentored and gave Della her first big break when she was just 13 years old. Della therefore always understood the importance of mentorship and passing on knowledge to the next generation, and on that account, she was a profoundly engrossing storyteller. The lessons and pain she experienced were fundamental components of her ministry and testimony. To those who truly knew Della, her soaring voice and commanding persona onscreen was only eclipsed by her heart and sincere compassion for mankind.\n\n\"As we lay to rest the legendary Della Reese, it is my hope that we all reflect on her legacy this holiday season in sharing with one another the same love and compassion Della showed everyone she encountered. My sincere condolences are with Della's husband, Frank, her children, family, and loved ones in Los Angeles and across the country.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T22:19:19Z"], ["https://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/brown-urges-labor-secretary-to-protect-miners-safety-health", "Brown Urges Labor Secretary to Protect Miners\u2019 Safety Health", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Sherrod Brown", "B000944", "www.brown.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Friday, December 29, 2017\n            \n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), along with U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin (D-WV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Warner (D-VA) and Bob Casey (D-PA), recently urged Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta to protect mine safety and miners health by protecting a recent rule aimed at limiting miners exposure to respirable coal mine dust. The Senators letter comes after the rule was listed among a number of rules to be re-examined for elimination. The rule was aimed at reducing work-related illnesses that miners face like black lung disease. Brown applauded the Department of Labors effort to limit coal dust exposure when it was announced in 2014.\r\nGiven this increase in black lung disease and the devastating impact that this disease has on coal miners and their families, we believe that it is critical that we maintain this rule, wrote the Senators in the letter. Claims that the Respirable Dust Rule is unnecessary, imposes a costly burden, or provides little to no benefit to society ignore the fact that it can take up to a decade or longer for simple black lung disease to develop. We are also keenly aware that the rate of black lung disease fell after Congress passed the Coal Act of 1969 and that comprehensive evidence that this rule has been effective will not be fully available until 2026 at the earliest. We should not abandon our coal miners three short years after the rule went into effect.\r\nRead the full letter below or click here.\r\nDear Secretary Acosta,\r\nOn December 14, 2017, the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) published its fall Unified Agenda and Regulatory Plan, a semiannual list of federal regulatory and deregulatory actions.We write to express our concerns regarding the decision to list several rules under the purview of the Mine Safety Health Administration (MSHA) for re-examination in the Unified Agenda.These rules are meant to protect the health and safety of our nations coal miners.\r\nThe Trump Administration has made clear its commitment to reducing regulatory burdens. We agree that unnecessary, outdated, or duplicative regulations should be examined for elimination or modification. However, we believe that worker safety is of the utmost importance and we unequivocally oppose rolling back the Respirable Dust Rule (the rule) which is meant to protect the safety, health, and  in effect  the livelihood of our coal miners.\r\nIn particular, the rule, which took effect in 2014, was promulgated by MSHA in an effort to reduce occupational lung diseases - namely coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP), commonly known as black lung disease.Black lung disease is a common but preventable disease that has plagued coal miners in Appalachia for decades. The impacts of black lung disease are debilitating and, in the most serious cases, fatal.\r\nIn 2010, the Secretary of Labor, acting under the authority of the Federal Mine Safety Health Act of 1977, proposed the rule. The rule lowers the acceptable threshold for concentrations of respirable coal mine dust with the goal of making the air that miners breathe in coal mines less toxic. The final rule decreased the dust limits from 2.0 milligrams per cubic meter to an improved level of 1.5 milligrams per cubic meter.\r\nUnfortunately, recent research, most notably a report from the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), has indicated the prevalence of black lung in Appalachian coalfields is worse than previously thought. Furthermore, black lung clinics in Appalachia report that younger coal miners are being diagnosed with the disease at increasing rates.\r\nGiven this increase in black lung disease and the devastating impact that this disease has on coal miners and their families, we believe that it is critical that we maintain this rule. Claims that the Respirable Dust Rule is unnecessary, imposes a costly burden, or provides little to no benefit to society ignore the fact that it can take up to a decade or longer for simple black lung disease to develop.\r\nWe are also keenly aware that the rate of black lung disease fell after Congress passed the Coal Act of 1969 and that comprehensive evidence that this rule has been effective will not be fully available until 2026 at the earliest. We should not abandon our coal miners three short years after the rule went into effect.\r\nIn short, we believe in worker safety first and foremost. MSHAs mission is a critical one for the safety and health of our nations miners and the Respirable Dust Rule is vital to ensuring that MSHA succeeds in that mission. We urge you to retain the Respirable Dust Rule and prevent the unnecessary erosion of vital mine safety and health standards.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.carper.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/e-newsletter?ContentRecord_id=45B750B4-47BE-42AF-8583-998B7C0419C6", "Delaware is at Refusal Speed", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "DE", "Thomas Carper", "C000174", "www.carper.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In the Navy, we had the term Refusal Speed  the speed at which an aircraft heading down the runway can either take off, or slow down. While 2017 was a contentious year for our country, Delaware remained focused on the mission at hand, continuing our work to make the First State a great place to live, raise a family, and start and grow a business. Together, with my partners in Congress, Senator Chris Coons and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester, state and community leaders, and engaged Delawareans, we have made progress by following what I like to call the Three Cs: Communication, Compromise and Collaboration. Throughout 2017, Delaware had a number of wins to help sustain and grow our economy and set Delaware up for success in the years to come. I believe our collective hard work this year has brought Delaware to Refusal Speed, and we are ready to take flight in 2018.\r\nAfter the announcement that Dow and DuPont would merge, the entire state came together to make the best of a difficult situation. Highlighting Delawares unmatched workforce and generational ties to DuPont, we secured DowDuPonts new Agriculture Division and Specialty Products Division headquarters here in Delaware. We then found innovative ways to protect and foster one of Delawares most incredible resources  world-class scientists. In October, we secured a $3 million Economic Development Administration grant to secure the Delaware Innovation Space, combining Delawares scientists with the resources of DuPont and the University of Delaware to help our scientist-entrepreneurs build new businesses and foster a community of scientific innovation right here in Delaware.\r\nWe've also continued to foster science, technology and future manufacturing growth in Delaware. Plans are underway for two multi-modal rail stations in Newark and Claymont that will better connect Delaware to our surrounding regions and serve as a catalyst for development. At the University of Delawares STAR Campus, where thousands of workers once made cars and trucks at the old Chrysler plant, we broke ground on the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals, and Chemours Discovery Hub. The development were seeing where shuttered manufacturing plants used to stand gives us hope for future job growth in the First State.\r\nAlong Delawares 21 miles of oceanfront, we have more 5-star beaches than any other state.Over the past few years, our beaches have seen terrible damage from Hurricane Joaquin in 2015, a number of Noreasters, and Winter Storm Jonas in January 2016. Our beaches are more than environmental treasures, they generate more than $6.9 billion in coastal tourism annually and support 10 percent of Delawares workforce. Thats why its so important to invest in building up our dunes and beaches so they can protect our homes, businesses and infrastructure along the coast from rising seas and more frequent, larger storm damage. This year, we secured federal funding to begin replenishing the beaches in Bethany, South Bethany and Fenwick Island, all damaged from these powerful storms.\r\nIn the Delaware River itself, we secured the final $29 million needed to complete the decades-long project to deepen the waters around the Port of Wilmington. The Delaware River Main Channel Deepening Project is scheduled to be completed next year and will allow larger ships from all over the world to utilize our port, and keep Delaware competitive in the 21st Century global economy. Completing the Delaware River Main Channel Deepening Project is expected to create thousands of new jobs in the Greater Philadelphia area.\r\n\r\nWeve also continued our constant efforts to support our men and women in uniform and our military community that calls the First State home. The 2018 National Defense Authorization Act, (NDAA) authorizing funding for the Department of Defense, included much needed funding to support the National Guards air fleet across the country, including $96.11 million for C-130H modernization and $26.8 million for general upgrades. This is crucial funding to keep the Delaware National Guards C-130s on pace and ready to go at a moments notice. We also made progress in our never-ending duty to care for those who have borne the battle, opening a new 10,000-square-foot Veterans Affairs Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Georgetown, bringing health care closer to our veterans in Sussex County.\r\nAll across the First State, Delawareans worked together  regardless of politics  to support their communities, grow our economy and make 2017 a remarkable year. All of these accomplishments, and more, make me confident that Delaware is at Refusal Speed and ready to take flight in 2018.\r\nHappy New Year, and God bless.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/fiesta-bowl-festivities-senators-casey-cantwell-place-friendly-wager-on-fiesta-bowl", "Fiesta Bowl Festivities: Senators Casey, Cantwell Place Friendly Wager On Fiesta Bowl", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Bob Casey", "C001070", "www.casey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  With the Penn State Nittany Lions and the University of Washington Huskies set to square off in the 2017 Fiesta Bowl, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) have placed a friendly wager on the outcome. The senator with the losing team will deliver a home state product to the other. Casey has wagered an assortment of ice cream from Penn States Berkey Creamery. Cantwell has wagered smoked Pacific salmon from Pike Place Market and craft beer from Elysian Brewing Company.\r\nWhile Id love for my colleague to try some of Pennsylvanias finest ice cream, I have total confidence in the Nittany Lions ability to beat the Huskies, said Senator Casey. I look forward to watching Penn State complete their season with a win.\r\nMore information on Penn State Berkey Creamery here: http://creamery.psu.edu.\r\nMore information on Pike Place Market and Elysian Brewing Company can be found here: http://pikeplacemarket.org and http://elysianbrewing.com.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov//news/press/release/senator-gillibrand-urges-german-ambassador-to-work-with-department-of-state-to-deport-nazi-era-guard-currently-living-in-queens", "Senator Gillibrand Urges German Ambassador To Work With Department Of State To Deport Nazi-Era Guard Currently Living In Queens", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Kirsten Gillibrand", "G000555", "www.gillibrand.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 29, 2017\n\t\t\t Senator Gillibrand Urges German Ambassador To Work With Department Of State To Deport Nazi-Era Guard Currently Living In Queens \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\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 Nazi-Era Guard Initially Entered the U.S. Under False Pretenses; Although His Citizenship Has Since Been Stripped, the Deportation Case Has Stalled Because No Country Will Accept Him, Government of Germany Should Come Together with State Department Now To Show The World We Learned From The Past And Stand Together Today Against Anti-Semitism, Bigotry, And Hatred In All Forms\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t Washington, DC  U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand sent a letter urging German Ambassador Peter Wittig to work with the U.S. Department of State to immediately resolve the long-standing issue of the Nazi-era guard, Jakiw Palij, currently living in Queens, NY. Mr. Palij was allowed to enter the United States because he concealed his prior service to the Nazi regime. After determining that he had lied in order to enter the country, Mr. Palijs American citizenship was stripped and it was ordered that he be deported. However, since then, his deportation case has stalled because Germany, Poland and Ukraine refuse to accept him. Recently, Gillibrand led a letter with every member of the bicameral New York delegation in Congress to U.S. Secretary of State Tillerson expressing deep concern over this issue.\r\nThis letter is to add my strong support for the State Departments efforts to press on this issue, and to ensure that the voices of my constituents are heard. My constituents have made clear that Mr. Palij is not welcome in our state. They agree that he lost his right to remain here when the brutal past he tried so hard to hide was revealed in an American courtroom. They have no doubt that Mr. Palij must be deported immediately. Together, the United States and Germany can show the world that Mr. Palijs crimes have not been forgotten, Senator Gillibrand wrote in her letter to Ambassador Wittig. We can show that we have learned from the past and stand together today against anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hatred in all forms.\r\nA copy of the Senators letter to the German Ambassador is below:\r\nDecember 27, 2017\r\nThe Honorable Mr. Peter Wittig\r\nAmbassador of the Federal Republic of Germany\r\nEmbassy of the Federal Republic of Germany\r\n4645 Reservoir Road NW\r\nWashington, DC 20007\r\nDear Ambassador Wittig,\r\nI would like to draw your attention to the case of Mr. Jakiw Palij, a Nazi-era guard who is currently residing in Queens, New York. As described in a December 16 article in the Washington Post, a federal judge stripped Mr. Palij of his U.S. citizenship in 2003, after it was found that he entered the United States by concealing his prior service to the Nazi regime. A year later, a U.S. immigration judge ordered that Mr. Palij be deported from the United States. However, because no country  including Germany  has agreed to accept him, Mr. Palij has not yet been removed from the United States. Sadly, he remains, unwelcome, in the state I represent.\r\nRecently, every member of the bicameral New York delegation in Congress came together to send a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Tillerson expressing our deep concern over this issue. In response, we were told that senior State Department officials met recently in Berlin with their German Ministry of Interior counterparts to re-iterate the U.S. request for Mr. Palijs removal to Germany. I was dismayed to hear that Germany still refuses to accept this proven Nazi collaborator.\r\nThis letter is to add my strong support for the State Departments efforts to press on this issue, and to ensure that the voices of my constituents are heard. My constituents have made clear that Mr. Palij is not welcome in our state. They agree that he lost his right to remain here when the brutal past he tried so hard to hide was revealed in an American courtroom. They have no doubt that Mr. Palij must be deported immediately. Together, the United States and Germany can show the world that Mr. Palijs crimes have not been forgotten. We can show that we have learned from the past and stand together today against anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hatred in all forms.\r\nI ask that you do everything in your power to urge your government to work with our State Department to resolve this long-standing issue, and I thank you very much for your consideration.\r\nSincerely,\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-secures-forklift-for-five-loaves-and-two-fishes-food-bank-in-kimball-", "Manchin Secures Forklift for Five Loaves & Two Fishes Food Bank in Kimball", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WV", "Joe Manchin", "M001183", "www.manchin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 29, 2017\n\t\t\t Manchin Secures Forklift for Five Loaves & Two Fishes Food Bank in Kimball  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCharleston, WV  U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement following the delivery of a much needed forklift to Five Loaves & Two Fishes Food Bank in Kimball, WV. Today Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia donated a forklift to Five Loaves & Two Fishes. After learning about the food banks need for a forklift, Senator Manchin was instrumental in securing the forklift for the food bank.\r\nSince I learned of the urgent need from Senator Richard Ojeda at Five Loaves & Two Fishes Food Bank in McDowell County, Ive been working with Bob and Linda McKinney, local officials and businesses to help secure a forklift that will allow them to continue receiving shipments and feeding the people of this community.\r\nWeve since seen such a wonderful outpouring of support, starting with United Rentals of Beckley which allowed the Food Bank to have immediate use of a forklift that got them through such a critical time of year.\r\nA long-term solution was always the goal, and today I am so proud and grateful to announce that Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia (TMMWV) has stepped forward, in great fashion, to donate a forklift to Five Loaves & Two Fishes.\r\nI know everyone is moved and humbled by this incredible act of community giving by Toyota, and also relieved to see a permanent forklift finally here in Kimball  where the need remains great, and the desire to help and serve remains strong.\r\nI would like to thank Tom Lego, Leah Curry and TMMWV for making this moment possible and especially for the individuals, families and children whose lives will be touched by this generous donation.\r\nI thank Dave Vincent and United Rentals of Beckley for stepping forward immediately to ensure that the Food Bank wasnt without a forklift over the past several weeks.\r\nAnd I thank Bob and Linda and everyone with Five Loaves & Two Fishes for working every day to lift up people in their greatest time of need. Its the kind of work that inspires. Its the kind of work that saves lives. And it represents who we are as West Virginians  neighbors who always help each other.\r\nThank you and may God Bless McDowell County, and our great state of West Virginia.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-statement-on-miner-death-in-fayette-county-", "Manchin Statement on Miner Death in Fayette County", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "WV", "Joe Manchin", "M001183", "www.manchin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 29, 2017\n\t\t\t Manchin Statement on Miner Death in Fayette County  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCharleston, WV  U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today released the following statement on the death of Thurman A. Watts, a coal miner who was working in Fayette County.\r\nAll of West Virginia is heartbroken to learn of the loss of Thurman A. Watts today. Yet again, we are reminded of the incredible sacrifices our coal miners and their families make every day. Gayle and I join the entire state in sending our thoughts and prayers to the Watts family during this difficult time.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-decries-new-trump-administration-speed-over-safety-offshore-drilling-rules", "Senator Markey Decries New Trump Administration \u201cSpeed Over Safety\u201d Offshore Drilling Rules", "2017-12-29", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Edward Markey", "M000133", "www.markey.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Markey Decries New Trump Administration Speed Over Safety Offshore Drilling Rules \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 29, 2017\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tMarkey was leading Congressional investigator into BP oil spill\r\n\r\nWashington (December 29, 2017)  Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, released the following statement after the Trump administration published its proposal today to roll back rules meant to prevent offshore drilling disasters. Senator Markey was the leading Congressional investigator into the BP oil spill, and the first to post the Spillcam online of the underwater spill.\r\n\r\nIt hasnt even been ten years since the Deepwater Horizon disaster dumped millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico, yet the Trump administration wants to return to the speed-over-safety mentality that led to the BP spill in the first place, said Senator Markey. At the behest of its oil company cronies, the Trump administration wants to roll back rules meant to prevent offshore drilling disasters at the same time that they want to expand offshore drilling to new areas like the East Coast and put our coastlines, residents and wildlife at risk. This proposal targets rules meant to ensure that safety devices are functioning properly. Instead of making sure the oil and gas industrys last-resort protections work, the Trump administration resorts to putting protection last.\r\n\r\nCongress has yet to enact a single new significant law to improve the safety of offshore drilling, concluded Senator Markey. We owe it to the residents of the Gulf and to all those living along coastline where the Trump administration hopes to drill with abandon to ensure environmental tragedies like Deepwater never happen again. Congress must still act, and I will continue to fight in the Senate to ensure that we enact the strongest protections for our environment and workers in offshore drilling. \r\n\r\nIn April, Senators Markey and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) led a group of 27 senators in calling on the Trump administration to protect the coastlines of the United States from offshore oil drilling. The senators sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke urging him not to revise the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program (Five-Year Plan) to eliminate protections for the East and West Coasts, the Eastern Gulf of Mexico and for the sensitive marine ecosystems in the Arctic Ocean.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398560", "U.S. Rep. Castor Announces Over $1.2 million for Tampa area families", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced today that her office worked to obtain over $1.2 million for veterans, seniors, and families across the Tampa Bay area in 2017.\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced today that her office worked to obtain over $1.2 million for veterans, seniors, and families across the Tampa Bay area in 2017. Tampa areafamilies count on me and my constituent service team to be their advocate and cut through red tape regarding Social Security, IRS, passports, immigration, Veterans Affairs, Medicare, military matters and more. I am here to help, U.S. Rep. Castor said. Most of the $1.2 million in federal benefits recovered by U.S. Rep. Castor and her team were owed to local veterans. Hillsborough County is home to one of the largest military and veterans communities in the country with more than 98,000 veterans, the highest veteran population in Florida according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. U.S. Rep. Castor has held two 50th Vietnam War Veterans Commemorations to honor the service of local members of the Armed Forces for their service during the Vietnam War as part of an ongoing national effort to honor the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. U.S. Rep. Castor looks forward honoring more of our Vietnam War era veterans at future ceremonies in 2018. More information on U.S. Rep. Castors 50th Vietnam War Veterans Commemorations can be found at www.Castor.House.gov. U.S. Rep. Castor also worked to secure almost $200 million in federal grants this year to create jobs, invest in education and infrastructure, and bolster the important work of local partners. Among the federals grants won this year are nearly $5 million to the University of South Florida to support 2018 enrollment in the federal health insurance marketplace, $1.6 million to Moffitt Cancer Center in partnership with the Ponce School of Medicine in Ponce, Puerto Rico for interdisciplinary cancer research, $780,800 to strengthen Tampas economy by creating permanent jobs in East Tampa and grants to numerous social programs including $1.1 million for youth programs in disadvantaged communities.This year, U.S. Rep. Castor also held a Tech Training & Jobs InfoSession where many of her neighbors could connect with numerous local organizations that offer technical and vocational training programs and opportunities to help workers land our region's higher-paying jobs. I intend to be just as determined in 2018 to stand up for our community and fight for the benefits veterans and others have earned. My hard-working neighbors and students are my top priority, U.S. Rep. Castor added. Residents in Florida Congressional District 14 can call U.S. Rep. Castors Tampa office at 813-871-2817 or visit www.Castor.house.gov for assistance. ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cartwright.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cartwright-announces-44-million-in-hhs-funds-for-luzerne-county-head", "Cartwright Announces $4.4 million in HHS Funds for Luzerne County Head Start", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Matt Cartwright", "C001090", "cartwright.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Luzerne, Pennsylvania  Today, Representative Matt Cartwright announced that Luzerne County Head Start received $4,448,810 in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. These funds are used for the continuation of high quality, comprehensive, early childhood education.\nHead Start is a federal program created in 1965 to address the educational and developmental needs of low-income, pre-school children.Head Starts comprehensive service system provides social, nutritional, and educational services for thousands of children and their families across the United States. Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child's first and most important teacher.\nHead Start and Early Head Start programs are an important investment in our community and our economy, said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Appropriations Committee. I applaud Luzerne County Head Start on their continued award and their dedication to enhancing the quality of life for children and families in Luzerne and WyomingCounties.\"\nOver the past 51 years, Head Start programs have been operating at the local, grassroots level across the country. Through Head Start's comprehensive service system for both children and their families, thousands upon thousands of children have been given the chance to be and to do their best in order to achieve their potential in school.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://neal.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/neal-issues-statement-pre-payments-property-taxes-following-consultation", "Neal Issues Statement on Pre-Payments of Property Taxes...", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Richard Neal", "N000015", "neal.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SPRINGFIELD, MA  Ranking Member of the House Committee on Ways and Means, Richard E. Neal, issued the following statement after receiving an explanation from the IRS regarding pre-payments of property taxes under the new limitations on the state and local tax deductions.\n\n\"Last week, I sent a letter to the IRS asking for clarification on pre-payments of property taxes as it relates to the new limitations on the state and local tax deduction under federal law, said Ranking Member Neal. Due to constituent interest, I asked the IRS how they would apply the new law to taxpayers who are considering pre-paying their 2018 property taxes before the end of 2017. Acting Commissioner David J. Kautter responded to my inquiry today and the IRS issued an advisory with guidance. The advisory generally provides that pre-paid real property taxes may be deductible in 2017 if assessed and paid in 2017. As there is still a tremendous amount of uncertainty around this issue, individual taxpayers should consider visiting IRS.gov so they are aware of what options are available to them.\"\n\nA copy of the Neal letter can be found here.\nA copy of the Kautter letter can be found here.\nA link to the IRS advisory is here.\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norton-says-congressional-budget-process-ironically-allows-dc-homeowners", "Norton Says Congressional Budget Process Ironically Allows D.C. Homeowners to Avoid New Property Tax Deduction Cap", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "DC", "Eleanor Norton", "N000147", "norton.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) said that in one of the great ironies of the onerous District of Columbia budget process, D.C. residents can prepay their 2018 property taxes by December 31, 2017, to avoid the $10,000 state and local tax deduction cap that takes effect next year. Congress requires the District to submit a complete budget before its fiscal year begins on October 1, which was set by Congress, for the upcoming fiscal year, which includes property assessments and property tax liabilities for the new federal fiscal year. According to the Districts Chief Financial Officer, Jeffrey DeWitt, D.C. taxpayers can now prepay property taxes online by going to D.C.s Office of Tax and Revenue website at www.taxpayerservicecenter.com. The official opinion of D.C. Chief Financial Officer comes at a time when many D.C. homeowners will face significantly higher taxes because the new Republican tax bill limits the state and local tax deduction to $10,000.\nFor the first time, we reap a sardonic advantage from the requirement that D.C. submit its entire budget to Congress for approval, Norton said. Congress has not yet approved the local budget (it only uses D.C. appropriations to try to attach anti-home-rule riders), but D.C. has done its property assessments for fiscal year 2018. I encourage all D.C. homeowners, who already pay the highest federal taxes per capita in the nation, to consider taking advantage of prepaying their property taxes in order to claim a deduction on their 2017 return, but only after consulting with a tax expert.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/in-the-news/rep-soto-good-day-orlando-fox-35-puerto-rico-visit", "Rep. Soto on Good Day Orlando, Fox 35 on Puerto Rico Visit", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "451 3rd Street NW\n\nWinter Haven, FL 33881\n\n  Phones: (202) 600-0843  \n\t       (202) 615-1308\nOpenThursdayand Friday 9AM-5PM", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://titus.house.gov/press-releases/titus-statement-on-gold-butte-s-one-year-anniversary", "Titus Statement on Gold Buttes One-Year Anniversary", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NV", "Dina Titus", "T000468", "titus.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 28, 2017\nWashington, D.C.  Today Rep. Dina Titus of Nevadas First Congressional District released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the Gold Butte National Monument designation by President Obama.\nOne year ago we celebrated the hard work of many local advocates and the rich heritage of Southern Nevada when President Obama designated Gold Butte National Monument. With the advent of the Trump Administration, we are back on the front lines fighting to protect the cultural and natural resources that are now enveloped by the monuments borders. Zinkes straw-man arguments about water are addressed within the monument proclamation. In addition, the Antiquities Act is clear: Presidents can create monuments but cannot take them away. Moving forward, I will continue to advocate for Gold Butte and support all efforts to ensure that the Trump Administration doesnt hack away at Nevadas piece of the Grand Canyon. An attack on one monument is an attack on all monuments.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.billnelson.senate.gov/newsroom/news/congressional-leaders-call-for-faster-help-for-hurricane-ravaged-puerto-rico", "Congressional Leaders call for faster help for hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Bill Nelson", "N000032", "www.billnelson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Some members of central Floridas congressional delegation are calling for more help for Puerto Rico.\n\nMore than a third of the island remains without power nearly 100 days after Hurricane Maria.\n\nThe devastation has prompted more than 250,000 Puerto Ricans to flee to Florida. More than half have settled in central Florida.\n\nSen. Bill Nelson and Congressman Darren Soto visited the island earlier this week. Nelson says he talked with Puerto Rican leaders about what Florida can expect.\n\nThe exodus will continue. If you cant get the stores open because you dont have electricity people arent going to have jobs, and they need to provide for their families.\n\nAfter the trip Nelson, Soto and Congresswoman Val Demings met with state and local leaders in Kissimmee, where they discussed issues like education, housing and health care.\n\nThey lamented what they described as inaction on the part of the Trump administration and Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.brown.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/a-year-in-review_senator-brown-working-for-ohioans", "A Year in Review \u2013 Senator Brown Working for Ohioans", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Sherrod Brown", "B000944", "www.brown.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Thursday, December 28, 2017\n            \n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tOver the last year, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown worked with Republicans and Democrats to introduce more than 165 bipartisan bills  more than 60 of which he introduced with Senator Portman. Brown successfully sent five bipartisan bills to President Trumps desk to become law, and secured priorities for Ohios military bases in the defense bill the President signed into law in December. Last Congress, Medill ranked Brown 4th on the list of Senators who had passed the most laws  thats because Senator Brown works with Republicans to get things done.\r\nBrown is the senior Senator from Ohio, having gained seniority on several of the Senates key committees where he has secured several wins for Ohioans. Brown is the ranking Democrat on the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee. He is also a member of the Senate Finance Committee, which oversees important issues like trade, healthcare, taxes and retirement. Brown also serves on the Senate Veterans Affairs and Agriculture Committees.\r\nHeres a look at Browns work on behalf of Ohio in 2017 and whats ahead next year, including fighting for a five-year extension of the Childrens Health Insurance Program and securing the pensions of thousands of Ohio retirees.\r\nBROWN BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW\r\n\r\nBill to Keep Fentanyl Out of Ohio\r\nAfter months of Brown and law enforcement groups calling for passage of Browns INTERDICT Act, Brown successfully forced a unanimous vote on his bill before the Senate adjourned for the year. The bill will help law enforcement detect fentanyl before it enters the U.S. and keep it from reaching Ohio streets. The bill had already passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, and now goes to President Trumps desk for his signature.\r\n\r\nBrownsINTERDICT Actwill provide U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with additional hi-tech screening equipment and lab resources to detect fentanyl before it enters the U.S. Senator Portman supported Browns INTERDICT Act, and Brown is supporting Portmans STOP Act. Both are endorsed by law enforcement. The two bills work together to help block the deadly synthetic opioid from reaching Ohio communities. Brown and Portman have also teamed up to expand treatment for Ohioans struggling with addiction. Brown has also repeatedly called for additional investment in the opioid crisis and fought attempts to gut Medicaid, Ohios number one tool in the fight against opioids.\r\n\r\nBill to Expand Opportunities for Ohio Veterans\r\nIn August, President Trump signed into law bipartisan legislation Brown helped author on the Veterans Committee to expand educational opportunities for post-9/11 student veterans, including direct relief for veterans who attended ITT Tech and Corinthian Colleges, which failed and left veterans with meaningless degrees or without a degree at all.\r\n\r\nBill to Support Ohios Military Bases\r\nAs Co-Chair of the bipartisan Senate Air Force Caucus, Brown is uniquely positioned to fight for Ohios military installations and the jobs they support. Just this month, President Trump signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included several Ohio priorities, thanks to Browns advocacy, including:\r\n \r\nWright-Patterson Air Force Bases Air Force Research Lab: Brown secured provisions to support jobs and research at Wright-Patterson Air Force Bases Air Force Research Lab.\r\nLimas Joint Systems Manufacturing Center: Brown secured nearly $2 billion make upgrades to the Abrams Tank and Stryker Brigade.\r\nToledos 180th Fighter Wing: Brown secured $15 million to make facility improvements for Toledos 180th Fighter Wing and install new hangars for F-16 aircraft needed to carry out the Aerospace Control Alert mission.\r\n \r\n\r\nBill to Hold North Korea, Russia, Iran Accountable\r\nThe Senate Banking Committee, on which Brown is the top Democrat, has jurisdiction over sanctions. In August, President Trump signed into law a package of sanctions Brown helped negotiate to crack down on Iran, Russia and North Korea. Brown recently introduced another tough, new sanctions package to continue holding North Korea accountable. This bill passed out of the Banking Committee with broad, bipartisan support.\r\n\r\nBill to Hire Veterans to Fill Law Enforcement Posts\r\nThe American Law Enforcement Heroes Act was also signed into law. The law, which Brown helped introduce, prioritizes federal grant applications for DOJs Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) funding for those departments and agencies that seek to use COPS funding to hire veterans.\r\n\r\nBill to Create Civil Rights Network at National Parks\r\nBrown worked with Republican Senator Lamar Alexander to pass a bipartisan bill to create an African American Civil Rights Network  a national network of historic sites, stories, research facilities, and educational programs connected to the African American Civil Rights Movement. The African American Civil Rights Network Act will establish a National Park Service (NPS) program to educate the public, and provide technical assistance for documenting, preserving, and interpreting the history of the Civil Rights Movement. The bill heads to President Trump to be signed into law.\r\nSERVING OHIOANS\r\nBrowns office is here to help Ohioans  whether it is seeking trade relief for Ohio companies, drawing investment and jobs to the state, or helping veterans get their medals. Browns office routinely works on behalf of Ohioans for help with federal agencies from the IRS to the VA. In addition, Brown and his office have developed new ways to hear from Ohio residents, leaders and business owners to support Ohio communities. \r\n\r\nHearing from Ohioans\r\nDuring Browns second term in the U.S. Senate, he has held more than 300 roundtables across Ohio and held public events in each of Ohios 88 counties. Brown and his office have also hosted the Ohio Womens Leadership Summit and the Propel Ohio Collegiate Leadership Summit for three years running. The Womens Leadership Summit brings together Ohio women to share ideas on their personal and professional development, and Propel Ohio helps inspire Ohio students to lead in their communities.\r\n\r\nHelping Ohioans with Federal Agencies                 \r\nMike Young of Woodsfield Ohio is the president of the Monroe County Firefighters Association, Inc. He filed for nonprofit status for the firefighters association with the IRS. After no response from the IRS for three months, Mr. Young contacted Browns office. Browns office, by working with the Taxpayer Advocate Service, was able to advise Mr. Young on what additional information was needed to process his application. With the additional information, the IRS awarded the Firefighters Association the nonprofit status. This is just one example of the way Browns office assists Ohioans with federal agencies.\r\n\r\nGetting Ohio Students Interested in Manufacturing\r\nFor the fifth year in a row, Brown teamed up with local manufacturers, plants, community partners and schools to host 18 Summer Manufacturing Camps where young Ohioans learned about Ohios manufacturing sector. Campers visited local manufacturers, toured plants, and worked with their peers on hands-on projects specific to their communities. Browns office started organizing summer manufacturing camps in 2013, and since then, the number of camps throughout the state has grown every year. This year, Browns office helped organize 18 camps in 16 counties.\r\n\r\nSecuring Trade Relief for Ohio Workers Wronged By Unfair Trade\r\nBrown has worked with Senator Portman to seek relief for Ohio workers at Whirlpools plant in Clyde, Ohio. The two both testified on behalf of the company at the International Trade Commission, requesting relief for workers at the plant whod been hurt by unfairly traded washing machine imports. Following Browns call, ITC rule in favor of Ohio workers. Now, Brown is pushing the Administration to provide real relief in the case. The case builds on Browns work to provide trade relief to Ohio companies and workers, including Browns legislation, the Leveling the Playing Field Act, signed into law in June 2015.\r\n\r\nWHATS AHEAD\r\nNext year, Brown intends to build on his work in 2017 to pass legislation to extend CHIP, secure Ohioans pensions, make work more valuable for Ohioans on the job, and rebuild the nations infrastructure. Hell also continue efforts to work with President Trump to retool U.S. trade policy so it works better for working Ohioans, and continue his fight to protect Ohioans healthcare, and the Social Security and Medicare benefits theyve paid into for years. Brown will also help write the next farm bill, from his position on the Agriculture Committee.\r\n\r\nReauthorizing Childrens Health Insurance Program\r\nOne of Browns main priorities at the end of this year was to reauthorize CHIP for Ohio kids for five years. Unfortunately, Congress went home without giving Ohio children and families the certainty that theyll have healthcare. Brown is a sponsor of the bipartisan bill to extend the program for five years, and plans to work with his Republican colleagues to get it passed next year.\r\n\r\nSecuring Ohio Pensions\r\nBrown is leading efforts in Congress to ensure Ohio retirees can keep the pensions they have earned. Brown has introduced legislation named for late Ohioan Butch Lewis, a Teamster, that would put the plans on solid footing so they can meet their obligations to current retirees and workers for decades to come without cuts. Brown has successfully garnered strong support in both the House and Senate, where Leadership has indicated Browns bill is a top priority, increasing its chances for passage.\r\n\r\nMaking Work Pay\r\nIn March, Brown unveiled a plan to increase the value of work in America for all workers  whether they punch a time sheet, make a salary or earn tips. For more than a year, Brown and his office studied the challenges facing workers in Ohio and across the country to compile an agenda of solutions outlined in his plan, Working Too Hard for Too Little: A Plan for Restoring the Value of Work in America. Browns plan aims to make hard work pay off once again by doing four things: raising workers wages and benefits; giving workers more power in the workplace; making it possible for more workers to save for retirement; and encouraging more companies to invest in their workforces. As part of his plan, Brown has also introduced legislation to provide employees advanced notice of their work schedules, expand two anti-poverty tax credits that help put money back in the pockets of working Ohioans and families, provide paid sick leave and paid family and medical leave, expand overtime pay and strengthen collective bargaining rights.\r\n\r\nRebuilding Crumbling Infrastructure\r\nBrown has offered to work with President Trump on Trumps promise to invest $1 trillion in our nations infrastructure and put Ohioans back to work rebuilding our roads and bridges. In January, Brown unveiled a comprehensive infrastructure plan with his colleagues, and early next year, Brown will introduce legislation aimed at rebuilding our nations bridges, which are critical to the flow of Ohio-made products and the safety of Ohioans as they travel to work, school or the grocery store.\r\n\r\nPushing for Better Trade Policy for Ohio Workers      \r\nSince just days after President Trumps election, Brown has offered to work with President Trump and his team to retool U.S. trade policy to support Ohio jobs. Brown outlined his priorities in a letter, and President Trump responded with a handwritten note. Brown has built strong relationships with top trade officials, including fellow Ohioan U.S. Trade Rep. Bob Lighthizer and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. Brown successfully requested the President withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Next year, Brown will continue to work with the Administrations trade team to renegotiate a strong NAFTA, crackdown on unfair trade and reduce Chinas steel overcapacity, which has hurt Ohios steel sector.\r\n\r\nProtecting Ohioans Healthcare\r\nBrown spoke out time and again in 2017 against attempts to take away care from more than 900,000 Ohioans who got coverage through the Affordable Care Act.\r\nBrown hasoffered specific legislation to make improvements to the Affordable Care Act including: legislation to add a public option to individual marketplaces so all consumers can access an affordable plan no matter where they live; legislation to repeal the so-called Cadillac tax on certain high-cost plans; legislation to repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) to prevent arbitrary cuts to Medicare; and legislation to fix a glitch in the law that prevents spouses or children from accessing subsidies to help get coverage in the exchange if one spouse gets employer coverage.\r\nBrown has introduced a package of proposals to help bring down the cost of prescription drugs, including language he authored to increase access to biosimilar drugs and tax the windfall profits of drug companies when they drive up costs of drugs overnight. Browns bill has been described as just about every policy idea drug lobbyists hate. And thats something hes proud of.\r\nNow, as Congressional Republicans have set their sights on so-called entitlement reform, Brown will lead efforts in the Senate to protect the Medicare and Social Security Ohioans have paid into for years.\r\n\r\nWriting the 2018 Farm Bill\r\nIn 2014, Brown was part of the Farm Bill Conference Committee that successfully negotiated a five-year farm bill, helping secure key provisions for Ohio farmers. Over the summer, Brown kicked off a series of discussions with Ohio farmers and stakeholders to get input as helps write the 2018 Farm Bill. Brown is the first Ohioan to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee in nearly 50 years.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/statement-from-baltimore-congressional-delegation-on-the-fbi-refusal-to-lead-investigation-of-the-murder-of-bpd-detective-sean-suiter", "Statement from Baltimore Congressional Delegation on the FBI Refusal to Lead Investigation of the Murder of BPD Detective Sean Suiter", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MD", "Benjamin Cardin", "C000141", "www.cardin.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 28, 2017\n\t\t\t Statement from Baltimore Congressional Delegation on the FBI Refusal to Lead Investigation of the Murder of BPD Detective Sean Suiter \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\nWASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Elijah Cummings, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes (all D-Md.) today released the following joint statement:\r\nWe are disappointed by the refusal of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to take the lead in investigating the murder of Baltimore Police Department Detective Sean Suiter. While we appreciate the FBI contention that no evidence exists to suggest that Det. Suiters homicide was directly connected to the corruption probe in which he was to testify, the reality remains that little-to-no progress has been made in solving the homicide. This means that his family, colleagues and community still lack the peace of mind and sense of justice that would accompany a successful resolution of this investigation, underscoring that the full resources and attention of the federal government remain required to solve this case. We expect that the FBI and other federal agencies that have been cooperating in this investigation will remain fully engaged until justice is delivered, and that the FBI will immediately reconsider its decision to assume leadership of the investigation should any new evidence suggest it is merited.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CBBE033F-9C48-42B9-8B20-4DC43FFD4B3D", "Heitkamp Announces Federal Economic Development Funds for Standing Rock", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "ND", "Heidi Heitkamp", "H001069", "www.heitkamp.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today announced $51,000 in federal funding for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe that will establish tribal economic development planning and a strategy to support long-term investment and job creation on the reservation.\r\nOn North Dakotas tribal lands, access to economic opportunity remains a critical challenge, especially for young people looking to start their careers and for those having difficulty finding steady work, said Heitkamp. We know that strong economic conditions grow existing tribal businesses, provide greater security to lower income families, and help build a roadmap to a better future. But too often tribes lack the support they need to plan for sustainable growth. Thats why this award is so important in helping to lay the groundwork for increased private investment and job creation on Standing Rock.\r\nThese federal funds are made available through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) a bureau of the U.S. Department of Commerce. This EDA funding helps communities establish economic development strategies that aid North Dakota economic development councils across the state in bringing together both public and private resources that will help small businesses, create jobs, and stimulate long-term growth.\r\nHeitkamp has long advocated for entrepreneurship and economic development on Standing Rock. In 2015, Heitkamp brought then-U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet to the reservation, where they spoke with tribal leaders and business students at Sitting Bull College about opportunities for training, technical assistance, and programs to spur job growth on the reservation.\r\nHeitkamp received the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for her work in the U.S. Senate to support startups in rural areas and small cities to help them get off the ground, and her support of small businesses through commonsense regulatory reform, making sure small businesses have a seat at the table when rules are made. The Chamber also gave Heitkamp a 100 percent rating for her voting record in the U.S. Senate in 2016 supporting North Dakota small businesses.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-call-for-help-committee-hearings-on-impact-of-hurricanes-on-puerto-rico-and-us-virgin-islands", "MURPHY, BIPARTISAN GROUP OF COLLEAGUES CALL FOR HELP COMMITTEE HEARINGS ON IMPACT OF HURRICANES ON PUERTO RICO  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS", "2017-12-28", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CT", "Christopher Murphy", "M001169", "www.murphy.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MURPHY, BIPARTISAN GROUP OF COLLEAGUES CALL FOR HELP COMMITTEE HEARINGS ON IMPACT OF HURRICANES ON PUERTO RICO & U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators ask Chairman Alexander to hold hearings on health and education challenges facing islands following Hurricanes Irma, Maria\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 28, 2017\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tHARTFORD  U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), and 6 of their colleagues on the HELP Committee in sending a letter to HELP Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) to request that the Committee hold hearings to assess the challenges facing the health and educational systems of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Maria.Noting the extensive damage caused by the hurricanes to the islands' education and public health infrastructures, the senators urged Chairman Alexander to hold hearings to address these issues and to evaluate the relief provided by the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Education, both of which fall under the HELP Committee's jurisdiction.\r\n\"Given the extent of the damage inflicted upon both territories, as well as the important roles of the departments under this committee's jurisdiction in ongoing hurricane relief efforts, we believe such hearings would be an important part of the Committee's oversight related to hurricane recovery,\"the senators wrote. \"Hearings could help ensure that the Senate has a detailed understanding of the health and education challenges facing Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as an understanding of how Departments under the Committee's purview have provided relief, and how they can improve relief efforts.\"\r\nThe HELP Committee has not yet held any hearings on how the two territories have been affected by the storms.\r\nThe full text of the letter is available here. \r\nMurphy, Warren, and Cassidy were joined by U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) in sending the letter.\r\nImmediately following Hurricanes Maria and Irma, Murphy called on Senate leaders to work with Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rosell to formulate and pass an emergency bill to rebuild Puerto Rico and restore stability to the island. Murphy has held several meetings with the Puerto Rican community in Connecticut to receive feedback on federal relief efforts. He also joined other senators in demanding that the Trump administration take eight specific actions to assist Puerto Rico and in urging FEMA to immediately greenlight the federal funds Puerto Rico needs to rebuild. Murphy has also called out Congress and the Trump administration for systematically denying Puerto Rico a voice and adequate support in the wake of devastation left by Hurricane Maria, and demanded that Congress give Puerto Rico and its residents the equal political and economic status they deserve.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://fudge.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1916", "REP. FUDGE APPOINTS DISTRICT OUTREACH COORDINATOR FOR SUMMIT COUNTY", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcia Fudge", "F000455", "fudge.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) announced today the appointment of Dr. Joan M. Williams as her new District Outreach Coordinator for Summit County. Dr. Williams will be based in Congresswoman Fudges Summit County office and will begin her duties effective Wednesday, January 3.\r\n\r\n\tDr. Williams brings more than two decades of experience building sustainable community partnerships. As Outreach Coordinator, she will manage day-to-day operations of the district office in Summit County, assist constituents and community stakeholders with concerns regarding federal government issues and programs, and serve as a liaison to other district staff.\r\n\r\n\tI am pleased to welcome Dr. Williams to my staff and introduce the community to my newest representative in Summit County. She brings a wealth of knowledge, talent, and the leadership skills that will help complement our work on behalf of the constituents of the 11th Congressional District, said Congresswoman Fudge.\r\n\r\n\tDr. Williams earned her bachelors degree from Colgate University, a masters degree in education from SUNY College at Brockport, a masters degree in social work from Columbia University, and a doctorate from Alliance Theological Seminary. She most recently served as Executive Director of Beth-Hark Christian Counseling Center, and is a Licensed Minister of Counseling.\r\n\r\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["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://bustos.house.gov/2017-year-review-bustos-continues-deliver-real-results-fight-illinois-working-families-give-heartland-voice-key-member-democratic-leadership/", "2017 YEAR IN REVIEW: Bustos Continues to Deliver Real Results, Fight for Illinois Working Families and Give the Heartland a Voice as a Key Member of Democratic Leadership", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "IL", "Cheri Bustos", "B001286", "bustos.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ROCK ISLAND  This past year, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) has continued her proven record of delivering real results for the hardworking families of Illinois 17th Congressional District. She has kept up her focus on economic growth, manufacturing, veterans and farmers. She has also demonstrated effective leadership in the House Democratic Caucus in her third term, while also working collaboratively across the aisle on commonsense solutions for working families.\n\nGIVING THE HEARTLAND A VOICE IN DEMOCRATIC LEADERSHIP\n\nAfter the 2016 election, Bustos was elected by her colleagues to serve as the Co-Chair of the House Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC). As Co-Chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee, and as the only elected member of the House Democratic leadership team from the Midwest, Bustos has given Northwestern and Central Illinois a voice at the decision-making table and helped ensure Democrats put forth a bold economic agenda for the American people.\n\nPRESENTING AMERICANS WITH A BETTER DEAL: BETTER JOBS, BETTER WAGES AND A BETTER FUTURE\n\nBustos was one of the leaders who crafted the Democratic Partys agenda  A Better Deal for hardworking Americans  an economic plan for better jobs, better wages and a better future. Across America  especially in the Heartland  there are millions of hardworking men and women who have been left behind by outdated policies that put profits before people.\n\nThis final agenda is the result of meeting with more than 180 Democratic members of Congress, experts from across the ideological spectrum and regular Americans who felt they have been forgotten by Washington. It will boost wages, lower costs and level the economic playing field so that all Americans can get ahead, not just special interests or the wealthiest few. It will restore opportunity in part by investing in our infrastructure, apprenticeships and workforce training, which will help create 10 million good-paying, full-time jobs.\n\nPROTECTING ILLINOISANS FROM TRUMPCARE\n\nIn March, Bustos delivered the Democratic Weekly Address to highlight the many flaws with the American Health Care Act, commonly referred to as Trumpcare. This was a devastating bill that would have wiped out nearly 2 million jobs (including 60,000 in Illinois), stripped coverage from 24 million individuals, imposed an age tax on older Americans and placed nearly 700 rural hospitals at greater risk of closing their doors.\n\nBustos also started a video series called Hear from the Heartland to share the stories of everyday Illinoisans who would be badly hurt by Trumpcare. In one of these videos, she spoke with a mother whose young son, Gryphon, was born with cerebral palsy and relies on Medicaid for critical care. If Trumpcare had become law, Gryphon would have been forced to either go without care or be relegated to an expensive high risk pool and reach his lifetime limit at an early age.\n\nFIGHTING FOR A BETTER DEAL FOR THE HEARTLAND\n\nAs many as 23 million rural Americans lack access to high-speed broadband internet. This is a major problem for small towns and rural communities that struggle to compete with big cities to attract job creators and entrepreneurs. In September, Congresswoman Bustos helped introduce a plank of the Better Deal agenda focused on universal high-speed internet. Democrats are pledging to connect every American to high-speed, reliable internet by providing direct federal investments to deliver the highest quality internet access at the lowest price. Read the full A Better Deal: Universal High-Speed Internet planhere.\n\nIn November, she hosted her Fourth Annual Economic Summit, focused on regional collaboration for job creation and economic growth. This was the culmination of a series of economic roundtables that Bustos hosted throughout the year. At this event, she brought together educators, business leaders and government officials to foster relationships and develop ideas for joint efforts to create jobs and prosperity.\n\nOpioid overdoses have risen at an unprecedented rate in rural areas, and some of these communities lack the sufficient infrastructure or resources to address this unprecedented crisis. In July, Rep. Bustos introduced bipartisan legislation to help rural communities better leverage USDA Rural Development programs to combat opioid and heroin use. As we work to combat the nationwide opioid epidemic, rural America must not be left behind.\n\nEXPANDING ROLE ON KEY COMMITTEES\n\nIn the 115th Congress, Bustos expanded her role on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to include two new subcommittees  Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials and Water Resources and Environment  in addition to Aviation and Highways and Transit, of which she was also a member in the 114th Congress. With these new subcommittee assignments, Bustos continued to be a strong advocate for our regions transportation priorities and work to craft a national infrastructure strategy that helps both Illinois and America maintain its competitive edge. In April, she brought together the directors of our regions airports so that she could prioritize their concerns ahead of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization bill. Based on these discussions, Bustos wrote and included three provisions in the final bill.\n\nBustos also serves on the House Agriculture Committee, which is preparing to write the next Farm Bill. In August, during Congress District Work Period, Bustos met with farmers from across Illinois 17th District to discuss their priorities for the upcoming Farm Bill. These conversations and listening sessions led Bustos to introduce the bipartisan Farmers of Tomorrow Act, which is designed to make it easier for young farmers and veterans to purchase land. She has also helped introduce legislation to double the funding for the Market Assistance Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) Program, which help Illinois farmers access markets abroad. In the 2014 Farm Bill, Rep. Bustos fought to protect the crop insurance program from devastating cuts and she will continue to advocate for a robust crop insurance program in the future.\n\nFIGHTING FOR GOOD-PAYING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING JOBS BY CLOSING THE SKILLS GAP\n\nOur region has seen too many factories boarded up and jobs shipped off to places like China and Mexico. After campaigning on the promise to bring these jobs back, President Trump has yet to propose any policies or legislation to grow our manufacturing economy. Thats why the first bill Bustos introduced this Congress was the Overseas Outsourcing Accountability Act, which would require President Trump to develop a national strategy to stop outsourcing and allow Congress to measure its success through a review every two years.\n\nBustos also introduced bipartisan Buy American legislation to create jobs and improve our infrastructure. The Buy America for Drinking Water Extension Act would create jobs and grow the economy by ensuring that all iron and steel products used for projects funded by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) are made entirely in the United States.\n\nOne of the top takeaways from Bustos economic roundtables was that educators and employers need to collaborate more to create the skilled workforce we need to grow the economy. Thats why she led members of the New Democrat Coalition in urging President Trump to invest in apprenticeship and workforce development programs.\n\nIn November, Bustos hosted Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer and Rep. Jimmy Panetta for a roundtable discussion in Peoria about the education and skills gap that prevents employers from filling open manufacturing jobs. This was part of the Whip Hoyers Make It In America listening tour.\n\nAfter visiting each of the seven community colleges in her Congressional District, Bustos heard from students and administrators about the need for more flexibility for Pell Grant awards. She reintroduced legislation to expand access to Pell Grants for students across the country, allowing them to use their scholarships year-round and enter the workforce faster and with less debt. This provision was included in the 2017 Omnibus Bill that passed the House in May and was later signed into law.\n\nBRINGING FAIRNESS TO DISASTER RELIEF DECLARATION\n\nToo often, smaller, Downstate communities in Illinois face discrimination under FEMAs disaster declaration process. Thats what we saw after a major tornado devastated the communities of Pekin, East Peoria and Washington, Illinois. Ever since then, Congresswoman Bustos has worked with Congressman Rodney Davis to bring more fairness to the disaster declaration process. This year, they passed the Disaster Declaration Improvement Act through the House of Representatives. This bill requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency to give greater weight and consideration to the localized impact of a disaster when determining the need for federal assistance.\n\nWorking to push this important bill into law, Bustos and Davis also worked together to include the entirety of their legislation in the disaster supplemental bill that passed the House late in December.\n\nENSURING THE ROCK ISLAND ARSENALS SUCCESS FOR THE FUTURE\n\nThis year, Bustos fought to include provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act that would strengthen the Rock Island Arsenal and grow the local economy. This language came from her Army Arsenal Revitalization Act, and would require the Secretary of the Army to issue guidance on how the Department of Defense will decide which items to make at Army arsenals and which it will purchase from other sources with the goal of ensuring that arsenals have sufficient workload to keep their workforce skilled and their products affordable. Bustos also included language from her DOD Check Before You Rent Act to require the Department of Defense to certify that no usable space is available on existing military installations like the Arsenal before leasing space with rent costs exceeding $750,000 annually or purchasing new space valued at more than $750,000 total. This would help ensure that space at the Rock Island Arsenal, and other military installations, are maximized before the military leases additional space. Both of these provisions were included in the final version of the bill, which was signed by President Trump this month.\n\nHONORING OUR FALLEN HEROES  \n\nU.S. Army Sgt. Douglas J. Riney and U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jordan S. Bastean were American heroes who embodied what it meant to live a life of courage, loyalty and selfless service. Thats why Bustos was proud to introduce legislation and marshal Illinois delegation support to rename post offices in their honor in Fairview and Pekin, respectively. The bill to rename the Fairview post office in honor of Sgt. Riney passed in November. Bustos is continuing her effort to bring the bill to rename Pekins Post Office after Lance Cpl. Bastean and is hopeful that it will move in the coming year.\n\nSPEAKING UP FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT\n\nWorkplace sexual harassment has been in the headlines in recent months, and we are in the midst of a cultural moment where this unacceptable behavior is being condemned. Bustos has been working since March to stand up for sexual harassment victims who have had their employers conduct swept under the rug by contractual forced arbitration clauses. Earlier this month, the bipartisan Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Harassment Act was introduced in both the House and Senate.\n\nBY THE NUMBERS\n\n14  Congresswoman Bustos visited all 14 counties in Illinois 17th District this year repeatedly and held several events, meetings and Supermarket Saturday visits when Congress was out of session.\n\n133  As part of her aggressive outreach strategy, Congresswoman Bustos hosted or attended 133 events in 2017 in Illinois 17th Congressional District.\n\n60  Over the course of 2017, Congresswoman Bustos has held 60 constituent meetings or discussions.\n\n1,004  Congresswoman Bustos strives to make government work for the people she serves, and her office has closed 1,004 casework requests this year  helping Illinoisans cut through red tape at the VA, IRS and other federal agencies.\n\n$663,669.55  This year, Congresswoman Bustos office has returned $663,669.55 to constituents in our District, which they recovered from the Social Security Administration, the IRS and the VA. Constituents having problems with any of these agencies are encouraged to reach out to one of our offices in Peoria, Rock Island or Rockford.\n\n20,928  Congresswoman Bustos prides herself on having a responsive and attentive constituent services operation, and her office has replied to 20,928 messages or requests this year.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cummings.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-baltimore-congressional-delegation-fbi-refusal-lead", "Statement from Baltimore Congressional Delegation on the FBI Refusal to Lead Investigation of the Murder of BPD Detective Sean Suiter", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MD", "Elijah Cummings", "C000984", "cummings.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Elijah Cummings, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes (all D-Md.) today released the following joint statement:\n\nWe are disappointed by the refusal of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to take the lead in investigating the murder of Baltimore Police Department Detective Sean Suiter. While we appreciate the FBI contention that no evidence exists to suggest that Det. Suiters homicide was directly connected to the corruption probe in which he was to testify, the reality remains that little-to-no progress has been made in identifying his killer(s). This means that his family, colleagues and community still lack the peace of mind and sense of justice that would accompany a successful resolution of this investigation, underscoring that the full resources and attention of the federal government remain required to solve this case. We expect that the FBI and other federal agencies that have been cooperating in this investigation will remain fully engaged until justice is delivered, and that the FBI stands ready to immediately reconsider its decision to assume leadership of the investigation should any new evidence suggest it is merited.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-urges-fda-improve-food-recall-procedures", "DeLauro Urges FDA to Improve Food-Recall Procedures", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CT", "Rosa DeLauro", "D000216", "delauro.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC (December 27, 2017) Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement in response to a new Office of the Inspector General (OIG) report, which found that the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) food-recall process did not consistently ensure the safety of our nations food supply.\nThe latest OIG report confirms what we have known for years: the FDAs response to food recalls is both slow and inadequate. Recalls of potentially harmful food must meet the highest standards, as the health of all Americans is on the line. Yet too often months go by before retailers take contaminated food off the marketall the while more and more people fall ill.\"\nThe FDA should immediately implement the OIGs recommendations, as well as reverse its policy of withholding the names and locations of retailers and distributors where recalled food is sold. The primary mission of the FDA is to ensure the food our families eat is safe, not to protect the trade secrets of food corporations. While I believe that the FDA already has the authority to release this information, I am committed to introducing legislation if Commissioner Gottliebs review finds otherwise.\nDeLauro is a senior member on the Appropriations subcommittee responsible for funding the FDA.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner-for-california-s/", "Brownley Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner for California\u2019s 26th Congressional District", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Julia Brownley", "B001285", "juliabrownley.house.gov", "juliabrownley", "https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) today announced that Sophia Taylor and Abigail Creech, students at Rancho Campana High School in Camarillo, have won the 2017 Congressional App Challenge for California\u2019s 26th Congressional District. Taylor and Creech developed Connect Me, an app designed to help people who are experiencing domestic violence, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and other difficult situations by connecting them with talk and text hotlines, community resources, and reminders to improve their physical and mental health.\n\n\u201cI want to congratulate Sophia and Abigail for their excellent work developing this new app,\u201d said Congresswoman Brownley. \u201cThese young women have shown us the positive impact that can come from creative thinking, hard work, and technological know-how. I also want to commend all of the students who participated in the Congressional App Challenge this year. Science and technology fields are the industries of the future. These students\u2019 submissions demonstrate how innovative the young people of Ventura County are and the many ways in which technology can help better our community.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a competition organized by Members of Congress across the country for K-12 students to create their own software applications and gain experience with computer coding. Submissions from students across Ventura County were judged by a panel of experts, including Dr. Ramon Flores, President of the Ventura County Office of Education; Mike Pettit, Chief Information Officer for Ventura County; Philip Hampton, Interim Director of Education Partnerships at California State University Channel Islands; Irene Yang, an app developer and computer science student at California State University Channel Islands; and biomedical engineer Shannon Gillespie McComb.\n\n\u201cI had so much fun participating in this competition,\u201d said Taylor. \u201cI had the opportunity to use my computer science and coding skills and develop an app to help people. I was so thrilled when I heard that the app had won.\u201d\n\n\u201cRancho Campana High School is extremely proud of Abigail Creech and Sophia Taylor for winning the Congressional App Challenge for their app, ConnectMe,\u201d said Karen Kikuchi, a computer science teacher at Rancho Campana High School in Camarillo. \u201cAbigail and Sophia are students in my Programming I class, and I challenged the entire class to enter the competition. It was amazing to witness the students\u2019 ideas, creativity, innovation, collaboration, and teamwork \u2013 these were natural products of the Congressional App Challenge. This wasn\u2019t just another assignment to them. Students took ownership of their app on its purpose and how it interacted with the user. I am grateful to the competition as it made my curriculum relevant to my students.\u201d\n\n\u201cAll submissions demonstrated creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication,\u201d said Dr. Flores. \u201cThe most rewarding aspect of the Congressional App Challenge was seeing the students apply their coding skills to solve problems relevant to their school environments. Regardless of the outcome, the real winners are the students who would benefit by using these apps.\u201d\n\nAs the winning submission, Taylor and Creech\u2019s app will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building and on the website of the U.S. House of Representatives. The students will also receive $250 in Amazon Web Services credits to support their next technology project.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T22:19:19Z"], ["https://juliabrownley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/brownley-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner-for-california-s", "Brownley Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner for Californias 26th Congressional District", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Julia Brownley", "B001285", "juliabrownley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) today announced that Sophia Taylor and Abigail Creech, students at Rancho Campana High School in Camarillo, have won the 2017 Congressional App Challenge for Californias 26th Congressional District. Taylor and Creech developed Connect Me, an app designed to help people who are experiencing domestic violence, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and other difficult situations by connecting them with talk and text hotlines, community resources, and reminders to improve their physical and mental health.\nI want to congratulate Sophia and Abigail for their excellent work developing this new app, said Congresswoman Brownley. These young women have shown us the positive impact that can come from creative thinking, hard work, and technological know-how. I also want to commend all of the students who participated in the Congressional App Challenge this year. Science and technology fields are the industries of the future. These students submissions demonstrate how innovative the young people of Ventura County are and the many ways in which technology can help better our community.\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a competition organized by Members of Congress across the country for K-12 students to create their own software applications and gain experience with computer coding. Submissions from students across Ventura County were judged by a panel of experts, including Dr. Ramon Flores, President of the Ventura County Office of Education; Mike Pettit, Chief Information Officer for Ventura County; Philip Hampton, Interim Director of Education Partnerships at California State University Channel Islands; Irene Yang, an app developer and computer science student at California State University Channel Islands; and biomedical engineer Shannon Gillespie McComb.\nI had so much fun participating in this competition, said Taylor. I had the opportunity to use my computer science and coding skills and develop an app to help people. I was so thrilled when I heard that the app had won.\nRancho Campana High School is extremely proud of Abigail Creech and Sophia Taylor for winning the Congressional App Challenge for their app, ConnectMe, said Karen Kikuchi, a computer science teacher at Rancho Campana High School in Camarillo. Abigail and Sophia are students in my Programming I class, and I challenged the entire class to enter the competition. It was amazing to witness the students ideas, creativity, innovation, collaboration, and teamwork  these were natural products of the Congressional App Challenge. This wasnt just another assignment to them. Students took ownership of their app on its purpose and how it interacted with the user. I am grateful to the competition as it made my curriculum relevant to my students.\nAll submissions demonstrated creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, said Dr. Flores. The most rewarding aspect of the Congressional App Challenge was seeing the students apply their coding skills to solve problems relevant to their school environments. Regardless of the outcome, the real winners are the students who would benefit by using these apps.\nAs the winning submission, Taylor and Creechs app will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building and on the website of the U.S. House of Representatives. The students will also receive $250 in Amazon Web Services credits to support their next technology project.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norton-condemns-bill-rolling-back-a-major-portion-of-the-dc", "Norton Condemns Bill Rolling Back a Major Portion of the D.C. Revitalization Act, Reimposing Hundreds of Millions of Dollars in New State Costs on the District", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "DC", "Eleanor Norton", "N000147", "norton.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) pledged to defeat a bill introduced last week by Representative Morgan Griffith (R-VA), a member of the far-right House Freedom Caucus, that would roll back a critical component of the District of Columbia Revitalization Act and blow a massive hole in the Districts budget. The bill would reduce the federal governments share of the Districts Medicaid expenditures, known as the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP), from the current 70 percent to 54 percent. Compounding the harm to the District, the federal governments share of the Districts expenditures for several other joint federal-state programs, including the Childrens Health Insurance Program, is tied to the FMAP. Griffith is a Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, where the bill has been referred. Norton noted that Virginias FMAP is 50 percent currently.\nThis is perhaps the first time we have seen a Member attempt to roll back the Revitalization Act since it was passed in 1997, Norton said. Even with the Revitalization Act Medicaid provision, which helped pull D.C. out of an economic crisis, D.C. pays a higher percentage of Medicaid than any U.S. city. A Republican Congress wrote the Revitalization Act in acknowledgement that D.C. was the only local jurisdiction that paid for state functions, the major reason for the economic crisis.\nIn response to the Districts financial crisis in the mid-1990s, Congress, with the Districts consent, passed the National Capital Revitalization and Self-Government Improvement Act of 1997, which transferred from the District to the federal government the costs and/or operations of several state functions, including prisons, courts and offender supervision. The Revitalization Act statutorily set D.C.s FMAP at 70 percent. The Districts financial crisis was largely a result of the fact that the District was the only city responsible for paying for state functions, while the federal government imposed unique revenue limitations on the District. All of the revenue limitations remain.\nThe FMAP formula is based on a state's per capita income relative to the national average, and the higher a states per capita income, the lower the FMAP. The FMAP statutory minimum is 50 percent and the maximum is 83 percent. If the District operated under the FMAP formula, as it did prior to the Revitalization Act, the federal government would pay only 50 percent of D.C.s Medicaid expenditures. Under the bill, beginning in fiscal year 2020, the federal government would pay the higher of the FMAP formula or a FMAP fixed percentage that decreases until it reaches 54 percent in 2027 and thereafter.\nUnder the bill, the FMAP fixed percentage would be: fiscal year 2020 is 68 percent; fiscal year 2021 is 66 percent; fiscal year 2022 is 64 percent; fiscal year 2023 is 62 percent; fiscal year 2024 is 60 percent; fiscal year 2025 is 58 percent; fiscal year 2026 is 56 percent; and fiscal year 2027 and each succeeding fiscal year is 54 percent.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/%E2%80%98torres-supported-hr-339%E2%80%99", "Torres supported HR 339", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Saipan Tribune  Contrary to a statement that he did not support the intent of House Resolution 339, Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan (Ind-MP) pointed out that Gov. Ralph DLG Torres did support the measure during deliberations by the U.S. Congress during the second quarter of 2017.\n\tQuoting Torres testimony during the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing on H.R. 339 last April 27, 2017, Sablan said in a statement that Torres backed the provision that bars construction workers from using the CW-1 program.\n\tTwo years ago, I requested the U.S. [Citizenship] and Immigration Services to review the issuance of CW permits to individuals in the construction trades. In my view, CW permits were only for job categories not available under existing visa classifications, and that construction workers could be sourced through H-2B visas, Torres wrote in his written testimony.\n\tAs we look back at the CW permits issued in the last two years, it is evident that a large majority of the new permits that have led to the shortage have been in the construction trades. Removing construction workers from the eligible job categories for the CW permit will force employers to go to better suited visa classifications and alleviate the limited CW permits for occupations that are crucial for the overall economy and the needs of the people, he added.\n\tLast week, Torres told Saipan Tribune that the repercussions of H.R. 339 were something that he did not support. He added that the outcome of enacting HR 339 into law was devastating to everybody here on the island.\n\tTorres issued the statement after Saipan Tribune requested for comments on USCIS decision to classify general maintenance workers as construction occupations.\n\tIn a separate statement over the holidays, Sablan clarified that Torres was in support of the provision that barred construction workers from the CW-1 program at the time and without reservation.\n\tH.R. 339s bar on the use of CW permits for new construction workers never changed from introduction of the bill to the day President Trump signed it into law. Moreover, that same language is reflected in draft legislation that [the Northern Marianas Business Alliance Corp.] began circulating in June this year, said Sablan.\n\tFor the record, I believe he was absolutely correct in advocating then for employers of construction workers to use H-2B visas and not the limited CW permits that so many of our other local businesses rely on, he said, adding that the governor also went public in urging construction companies to switch to H-2B visas even before the [U.S.] Senate hearing.\n\tAccording to Sablan, though it was the governors prerogative to change his mind, U.S. Congress view of the situation is crucial to the overall fate of the CW-1 program.\n\tI will note that the members of Congress to whom the governor testifiedunder oathin support of this law are the same members of Congress that I am working with now to make sure we have enough workers in our economy. We need their help. And if these members of Congress believe that the word of the governor of the Marianas cannot be trusted, they may be much less willing to listen to what he says the Marianas needs, he said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.billnelson.senate.gov/newsroom/news/senator-nelson-visits-puerto-rico-people-displaced-hope-for-more-help", "Senator Nelson visits Puerto Rico, people displaced hope for more help", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Bill Nelson", "N000032", "www.billnelson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congress is expected to take up a disaster spending bill early next month.\n\nSenator Bill Nelson traveled to Puerto Rico to assess the situation personally. Much of the island still remains without power.\n\nRegina Kearns is now staying in Delray Beach, after spending the past seven years in Vieques, Puerto Rico.\n\nHer home was damaged after Hurricane Maria swept through.\n\n\"Figured I'd come up here and rebuild my life,\" said Kearns.\n\nAs she sits here stateside, she keeps a list of what people need on the island.\n\n\"Linens, tarps, insulin,\" said Kearns.\n\nShe hopes the federal government and others will help as the island continues to recover.\n\n\"I'm a survivor things are going to get better.\"\n\nRegina has created a GoFundMe account to help Vieques.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/featured-items?ContentRecord_id=954F4EA8-406E-48C8-B4ED-3B1FFB56C0ED", "Heitkamp, Carper Urge Administration to Fill Census Bureau Leadership Vacancies", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "ND", "Heidi Heitkamp", "H001069", "www.heitkamp.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Heidi Heitkamp\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHome\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMeet Heidi \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tConstituent Services \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIssues \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNorth Dakota \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNews \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tContact \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t Featured Items \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHome\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t/\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNews\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t/\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFeatured Items\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\tContact Senator Heitkamp\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWashington Office\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSH-516 Hart Senate Office Building\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWashington, DC 20510\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone: (202) 224-2043\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFax: (202) 224-7776\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBismarck Office\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t228 Federal Building\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t220 East Rosser Avenue\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBismarck, ND 58501\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone: (701) 258-4648\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFax: (701) 258-1254 \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFargo Office\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t306 Federal Building\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t657 Second Avenue North\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFargo, ND 58102\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone: (701) 232-8030\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFax: (701) 232-6449 \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDickinson Office\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t40 1st Ave West, Suite 202\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDickinson, ND 58601\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone: (701) 225-0974\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFax: (701) 225-3287 \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGrand Forks Office\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t33 South Third Street Suite B\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGrand Forks, ND 58201\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone: (701) 775-9601\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFax: (701) 746-1990 \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMinot Office\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t105 Federal Building\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t100 First Street SW\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMinot, ND 58701\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone: (701) 852-0703\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFax: (701) 838-8196", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.mccaskill.senate.gov/media-center/video/view/the-town-hall-senator-behind-the-scenes", "The Town Hall Senator: Behind-the-Scenes", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MO", "Claire McCaskill", "M001170", "www.mccaskill.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-releases-2017-end-of-year-report", "MURPHY RELEASES 2017 END OF YEAR REPORT", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CT", "Christopher Murphy", "M001169", "www.murphy.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MURPHY RELEASES 2017 END OF YEAR REPORT\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 27, 2017\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released an end-of-year report on Wednesday to outline the work hes done for Connecticut residents throughout 2017. Murphys accomplishments span a wide range of issues, including protecting access to health care, securing new resources to stem the opioid epidemic, bringing federal funding back to spur job growth, and advocating for local Connecticut priorities.\r\nEvery day, Im grateful for the honor of serving Connecticut's residents in the U.S. Senate. Your feedback helps make me a better Senator. 2017 was a tough year, but Im proud of everything we fought for and everything we accomplished together. I'm going to keep fighting for you, said Murphy.\r\nClick here to download Senator Murphy's 2017 Year in Review or read the full report below.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-mayor-tom-baldini", "Peters Statement on Mayor Tom Baldini", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Gary Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.27.17\n\t\t\t Peters Statement on Mayor Tom Baldini \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DCU.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statementabout Mayor Tom Baldini:\r\nI was shocked and saddened to learn of Toms death, and Colleen and I extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. From his time in the classroom to service in Governor Blanchards Administration and his recent election as Mayor of Marquette, Tom Baldini has been a pillar of the Upper Peninsula for decades, and his passion for Marquette and the UP were evident in all that he did. Like so many, I regularly sought out Toms advice and counsel, and I cherished our friendship. With his passing, the entire State of Michigan lost a true public servant.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/statement-from-baltimore-congressional-delegation-on-the-fbi-refusal-to-lead-investigation-of-the-murder-of-bpd-detective-sean-suiter", "Statement from Baltimore Congressional Delegation on the FBI Refusal to Lead Investigation of the Murder of BPD Detective Sean Suiter", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MD", "Chris Van Hollen", "V000128", "www.vanhollen.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 27, 2017\n\t\t\t Statement from Baltimore Congressional Delegation on the FBI Refusal to Lead Investigation of the Murder of BPD Detective Sean Suiter \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Elijah Cummings, Dutch Ruppersberger and John Sarbanes (all D-Md.) today released the following joint statement:\r\n\"We are disappointed by the refusal of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to take the lead in investigating the murder of Baltimore Police Department Detective Sean Suiter. While we appreciate the FBI contention that no evidence exists to suggest that Det. Suiter's homicide was directly connected to the corruption probe in which he was to testify, the reality remains that little-to-no progress has been made in solving the homicide. This means that his family, colleagues and community still lack the peace of mind and sense of justice that would accompany a successful resolution of this investigation, underscoring that the full resources and attention of the federal government remain required to solve this case. We expect that the FBI and other federal agencies that have been cooperating in this investigation will remain fully engaged until justice is delivered, and that the FBI will immediately reconsider its decision to assume leadership of the investigation should any new evidence suggest it is\r\nmerited.\"\r\n###\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1222", "Dem: Trump's 'bromance' with Putin has clouded his views on Russia", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Gerald Connolly", "C001078", "connolly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "John BowdenDemocratic Rep. Gerald Connolly (VA) on Tuesday accused President Trump of harboring a \"bromance\" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which the lawmaker says has clouded Trump's vision on Russia. In an interview with \"The Lead\" on CNN, Connolly told host Jim Sciutto that a recent decision from the Trump administration to sell lethal weaponry to Ukraine amid the country's conflict with pro-Russian separatists came despite Trump's \"inexplicable\" soft spot for Putin. \"I think that the machinery of the United States government, the defense machinery, the foreign policy machinery has never wavered in understanding that Russia is an adversary and a threat to western values and our own democratic system,\" Connolly said Tuesday. \"[But] I think the president has a lot of trouble getting that in his head because of his own personal conflicts and his own personal needs and relationships with Russians, Russian oligarchs who financed part of his enterprise and his inexplicable admiration, bromance, for Vladimir Putin,\" added Connolly. \"So I think in some ways were doing this despite the president.\" The Trump administration announced earlier this month that it would sell more than $80 billion of lethal weaponry to Ukraine's military, including anti-tank missiles and sniper rifle systems. Connolly said he believed the president was \"reluctant\" to sign off on the policy, which was seen as a shift in U.S. policy in Ukraine from the Obama administration. \"I think he is a very reluctant signatory to the recent national strategic policy that was announced, Connolly said. Republicans in Congress praised the Trump administration for the decision last week, including some who have been critical of Trump in the past such as Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Bob Corker (R-Tenn.). Im pleased the administration approved the sale of defensive lethal arms to Ukraine, Corker said in a statement. This decision was supported by Congress in legislation that became law three years ago and reflects our countrys longstanding commitment to Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/366523-dem-trumps-bromance-with-putin-has-clouded-his-views-on-russia", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1223", "Congressmen Want Federal Employee Pay Cuts Taken Off the Table", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Gerald Connolly", "C001078", "connolly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Ian Smith\r\n  \r\nFour Congressmen recently sent a letter to House leaders saying they do not want pay cuts for federal employees to be used to fund increased discretionary spending caused by lifting sequestration spending caps.The letter was sent by Congressmen Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Steny Hoyer (D-MD), and Elijah Cummings (D-MD), lawmakers who all represent areas with a high percentage of constituents who work for the federal government. The Congressmen said in their letter that federal employees have already had their pay frozen and endured a partial government shutdown in 2013. They also expressed their displeasure with the recent tax cut legislation, which is the impetus for the letter. The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 requires that all new legislation changing taxes, fees, or mandatory expenditures, taken together, must not increase projected deficits, according to a description of the law. Under the terms of that act, the recent tax cuts must be offset by reductions in government spending, and the Congressmen do not want any reductions in federal workers pay or benefits to be the source of any potential spending cuts. https://www.fedsmith.com/2017/12/26/congressman-want-federal-employee-pay-cuts-taken-off-table/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lieu-joins-bipartisan-music-modernization-act-update-music-licensing", "REP LIEU JOINS BIPARTISAN MUSIC MODERNIZATION ACT TO UPDATE MUSIC LICENSING ECOSYSTEM", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ted Lieu", "L000582", "lieu.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON -Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) joined colleagues in introducing H.R. 4706, the Music Modernization Act, which updates the music licensing system with meaningful reforms for the first time in almost two decades. Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA), Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) and Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-N.Y.) introduced the bill with Mr. Lieu, along with Reps. Diane Black (R-Tenn.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), and Pete Sessions (R-Texas).\nMusic is a part of cultures lifeblood. It can transform worldviews, transport listeners and inspire social movements. Music touches all aspects of our society but it has a special relationship with technology. In fact, innovations in sound have changed the way we listen to music and music has changed the way we understand technology. Ensuring that the law keeps up with music and its changing forms is important and necessary. With the support of music publishers, songwriters, and streaming services, this critical bill will provide an opportunity to truly propel the music industry into the 21st century and beyond.\nFortifying copyright law ensures that change makers in the music industry can protect their work. For too long, weve had an outdated licensing system that hindered productive relationships and impacted how we listen to music. The House Judiciary Committee has worked hard to bring stakeholders together from across the industry to improve the mechanical licensing system  and this carefully crafted bill reflects the dedication of everyone involved. By creating a new body  the Music Licensing Collective  to match songwriters and publishers with recordings, and by creating a blanket license for streaming services, we can help ensure accurate payments to those who deserve to be compensated for their creative work. \nThis is an exciting step for both the music industry and music lovers alike.\nREAD MORE ABOUT THEBILL HERE\nSupport for the Music Modernization Act\nNational Music Publishers Association (NMPA) President & CEO David Israelite,American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers(ASCAP) CEO Elizabeth Matthews, Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) President & CEO Mike ONeill, Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) President Steve Bogard and Songwriters of North America (SONA) Executive Directors Michelle Lewis and Kay Hanley:\nWe strongly support the introduction of the Music Modernization Act which represents months of collaboration and compromise between the songwriting and tech industries. This legislation enables digital music companies to find the owners of the music they use and reforms the rate setting process for performing rights, ensuring that songwriters and music publishers are paid faster and more fairly than ever before.\nFor too long, digital music services have taken advantage of the bulk NOI process and often failed to find the correct creators to pay, and nowby working togetherthis bill ends this practice by creating a private-sector system where money will no longer be lost to inefficiencies and lack of information. The bill also improves how mechanical royalty rates are calculated by introducing a willing-seller/willing-buyer standard.\nOn the performance rights side, the bill also replacesthe current rate court system with the random assignment of judges used in most federal court cases, and allows the rate courts to review all relevant market evidence into the valuation of how songwriters are compensated.\nWe thank Congressmen Collins and Jeffries for their leadership in striking this balance that improves and modernizes our outdated licensing system and gives songwriters the ability to be paid what they deserve across all platforms that use music, including the growing interactive streaming services.\nDigital Media Association (DiMA) CEO Chris Harrison:\n\"DiMA thanks Congressmen Collins and Jeffries for their work to reform an outdated and inefficient music licensing system that serves neither fans of music nor creators.\nWe support the Music Modernization Act because it would create a blanket license, which is critical to a modern licensing system and a great step forward.\nWe look forward to continuing to work with the sponsors and the Judiciary Committee to enact legislation that creates a music licensing system that benefits everyone.\"\nNMPA President & CEO David Israelite:\nThe Music Modernization Act brings the laws that govern songwriters into the modern age. This legislation will lead to improved rates for songwriters and will streamline digital music companies ability to license music. While there is still more to do to free songwriters from oppressive government regulation, this is a major step forward.\n\nASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews:\nFor too long, songwriters have had to work within an outdated system that over-regulates and undervalues their music. ASCAP and our members have long advocated for a more flexible framework that can adapt to the realities of the modern music marketplace. We thank Congressmen Collins and Jeffries for introducing this legislation which is result of compromise between stakeholders from the music and tech sectors. We are glad to see provisions that address rate court reforms, which should ultimately result in compensation for our members that reflects the true value of their music. We will continue to push for reforms that can help move the entire music industry forward.\nBMI President & CEO Mike ONeill:\nWe thank Congressmen Collins and Jeffries for their introduction of the Music Modernization Act of 2017 and for always working to protect the rights of the American songwriter. While we believe there is still more to do to protect the value of the performance right, we are gratified that the Music Modernization Act contains two important provisions that create a more level playing field when determining the fair market value of our songwriters music; a wheel assignment for rate court judges and the repeal of 114(i). BMI also takes comfort that the bills new mechanical licensing provisions were the result of an important collaboration between the subject matter experts in this areathe mechanical rights holders and the digital services who rely on those rights. While we know this bill is not yet final, we believe it is an important step forward in modernizing music licensing and we look forward to working with all of the interested parties.\nNashville Songwriters Association International President Steve Bogard:\nThis legislation has been years in the making, represents compromises with digital streaming companies and reflects substantial progress in the way digital mechanical royalties for songwriters are determined. When we begin the next CRB proceeding we will be able to actually fight for what songwriters would be paid in a free market.\nSONA Executive Directors Michelle Lewis and Kay Hanley:\nAfter many months of working together on copyright reform and significant compromises by all parties, SONA is optimistic about the gains for publishers and songwriters that the Music Modernization Act provides.It lays the groundwork for a clear and concise system which will put an end to the mass abuses of outdated regulations, and ultimately gets songwriters and copyright owners paid more fairly for their work.\nSONA is proud to be a part of this historic bill.We hope this is only the beginning and look forward to continuing to work with members of Congress to fight for the rights of music creators.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://nolan.house.gov/the-monday-report/scrooged", "Scrooged!", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MN", "Rick Nolan", "N000127", "nolan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Scrooged! \n Republicans Pass Their $1.8 Trillion Tax Giveaway for the Rich - at the Expense of the Middle Class \nThis cartoon by David Fitzsimmons of the Arizona Star perfectly captures what the Republican tax bill is really all about -- giving huge tax cuts to the wealthy at the expense of the middle class.\nDear Friend,\nThe simple truth is,the rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer, and the middle class is getting crushed.Andthis disastrous Republican tax bill makes the situation even worse. First off, this bill hands trillions of dollars in tax cuts to the wealthiest 1% of Americans, and super rich corporations.\nThe Republican tax billgives 83% of its tax cuts to the richest 1% of Americans,and permanentlycuts the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%.And it doubles the estate tax exemption,making the richest 1% even richer. Republican leaders believe that giving the rich extra money will somehow miraculously create more jobs and raise wages. But heres the simple fact Giving the rich more money will not create a trickle-down effect it never has. American corporations are alreadyhoarding $2.5 trillion in overseas bank accounts,and $2 trillion more here at home. There is no evidence that tax cuts create jobsor cause wealthy CEOs to increase their employees wages. In fact, the opposite is true:Middle class wages have stagnated for a quarter century, while the rich have hoarded trillions and trillions for themselves. Second, the simple fact is that this tax bill raises taxes on 83 million middle class households. Millions of middle class families will see their taxes go up, according to an independent analysis by the Tax Policy Center. At best,some middle class Americans get enough to buy a hubcapon a Mercedes Benz  whilethe millionaires and billionaires get enough to buy a whole Mercedes if not a fleet of Mercedes!\nAnd if thats not bad enough,the small middle class tax benefits are only temporary set to expire while the tax cuts for the rich are massive and permanent. Finally, this Republican bill  by increasing the deficit by $1.5 trillion dollars  sets the stage for the gutting of Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid. Republicans have made it clear they intend to pay for these tax cuts for the rich by highway robbery and privatization of Medicare and Social Security and the wholesale gutting of Medicaid.This is absurd. Social Security has never missed a payment, never failed to make a profit, and haslifted millions of Americans out of poverty. Medicare, which funds and supports health care for our seniors, has  in just a few generations helped todouble life expectancy and dramatically increased the quality of life in America.\nAnd Medicaid provides a safety net for millions of seniors, children with disabilities, and others in need who might otherwise fall through the cracks in our society. Lets be clear:Medicare and Social Security are not entitlement programs.These arehard earned benefits that Americans pay for from the very first hour of the very first day on the job. But make no mistake when Republicans talk about entitlement reform, theyre talking aboutcutting Medicare and Social Security. In the spirit of the holiday season, Id like to close with an observation by Charles Dickens. In the story, A Christmas Carol, someone points out to Mr. Scrooge that the holidays are theone time when men and women open their hearts, and think of people below them as if they really were fellow-passengers to the grave,and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys. So, Ive reminded Republican leadership:The middle class are your fellow passengers in this life.Theyre the ones struggling to make ends meet, just trying to put food on the table, take care of a sick parent, or buy clothes for their kids. So, in the spirit of the holiday season, dont be Scrooges.\nWe will keep you posted as events proceed. Meanwhile, I want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to contact any of our offices listed below orsend me an email.\nSincerely,  \nRead the full letter HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/crisis-averted-becq", "Crisis averted at BECQ", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Crisis averted at BECQ                                           \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    Calling it a crisis earlier this year, Governor Ralph Torres and BECQ Administrator Frank Rabauliman said President Trumps proposal to cut spending at the Environmental Protection Agency would have direct and possibly irreversible effects on the environment and public health in the CNMI. Fortunately, along with many members of Congress, I pushed back in our annual appropriation process by prioritizing EPA funding and blocked the Presidents cuts.\nEPA announced the Marianas Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality has received an additional $1.3 million, bringing the total for the year to $2.3 million, almost 100 percent of BECQs annual operating funds. Environmental protection is targeted for cuts by the Trump administration. But for this year: crisis averted.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/marianas-vets-clinic-study-okayed", "Marianas vets clinic study okayed", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Marianas vets clinic study okayed                                           \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    The House Veterans Affairs' Committee voted in favor of my amendment requiring a report on the feasibility of putting a VA-staffed health clinic in the Marianas. We are one of the few areas of the country without easy access to a clinic. Getting one is my top priority now that I am a member of the Veterans Affairs' Committee. My amendment becomes part of the bill making the Choice program permanent.\nChoice pays for veterans in areas like ours, where vets have to travel by plane to get to a VA clinic, to go to private health care providers instead. We helped about 70 local doctors and clinics sign on to Choice this year as part of our outreach effort for Marianas veterans. And we worked to make sure veterans know that Choice is now an option for them and understand how to use the system. The Choice bill, H.R. 4242, should go to the full House for a vote in January.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/no-pay-cuts-federal-workers", "No pay cuts for federal workers", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "No pay cuts for federal workers                                           \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    On behalf of the hundreds of federal employees in the Northern Marianas, I opposed any further cuts to their pay or benefits, as Congress begins looking around for ways to pay for the new tax cut law. Our federal workers, who could often make more in the private sector, embody the work ethic and commitment to service that makes America great. They have already seen pay and benefit cuts of $182 billion since 2011. We can not ask more of them, particularly not to offset the $1.5 trillion cut in taxes the President signed.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/tax-bill-signed-effect-nmi", "Tax bill signed: effect on NMI?", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tax bill signed: effect on NMI?                                            \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    Without the requested data from the Commonwealth government, I cannot report on the specific effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed on a purely Republican vote in Congress and signed by the President. Two things are clear, however:\n2018 is the year the Commonwealth government will have to start making up for the lost income tax revenue and cuts in federal grants, resulting from the Trump tax cuts.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.billnelson.senate.gov/newsroom/news/us-sen-bill-nelson-will-travel-to-puerto-rico-to-see-hurricane-maria-aftermath", "U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson will travel to Puerto Rico to see Hurricane Maria aftermath", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Bill Nelson", "N000032", "www.billnelson.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and Rep. Darren Soto will travel tomorrow to Puerto Rico, where more than 1,000 deaths related to Hurricane Maria have been reported, to meet with local officials and get a firsthand look at the ongoing recovery efforts.\n\nNelson will meet with Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rossello and other local leaders throughout the day.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=74192437-7AA4-4A0D-84E0-07C91F2852D6", "Klobuchar, Grassley Seek Answers on Food and Drug Administration Policies for Personal Importation of Prescription Drugs from Canada", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MN", "Amy Klobuchar", "K000367", "www.klobuchar.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) have sent a letter to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Scott Gottlieb seeking answers regarding FDA policies on personal importation of prescription drugs.\r\nA recent Kaiser Health News article reported that FDA sent criminal investigation agents to nine Florida stores that help patients buy prescription drugs from pharmacies in Canada.\r\nWe have heard from thousands of our constituents about skyrocketing prescription drug prices and have proposed several bills to address this urgent problemincluding by allowing for the safe importation of prescription drugs. Although the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibits the importation of unapproved drugs, the FDA has long focused its enforcement efforts on products apparently intended for the commercial market and on fraudulent products, and those that pose an unreasonable health risk, the senators wrote. We are concerned that the Food and Drug Administration may be taking actions to scale back the agencys non-enforcement policy that currently allows for limited importation of prescription drugs.\r\nThe letter also calls on Commissioner Gottlieb to endorse Klobuchar and Senator John McCains (R-AZ) Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, which would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow for the personal importation of prescription drugs from approved pharmacies in Canada for personal use with a valid prescription.\r\nThe letter is the latest in a continuing effort by Klobuchar and Grassley to find solutions to the ever-increasing costs of prescription medications. Earlier this year, Klobuchar and Grassley introduced the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act to expand consumers access to the cost-saving generic drugs they need and increase competition by ending pay for delay dealsthe practice of brand-name drug companies using anti-competitive pay-off agreements to keep more affordable generic equivalents off the market. Klobuchar, Grassley, and a bipartisan group of Senators also introduced the Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act, which would address abusive tactics  like brand-name drug companies denying samples when generic companies request them  that prevent affordable drugs from entering the market.\r\nIn February, Klobuchar, Grassley, and McCain urged then- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tom Price to use his statutory authority to immediately certify the importation of prescription drugs from Canada under certain circumstances to address drug price hikes or a lack of competition in the United States. They also urged Commissioner Gottlieb in June to address abuses in the regulatory process that delay competition and increase prescription drug costs and in July asked him to address anticompetitive practices currently used by some brand-name pharmaceutical companies to delay the manufacture and introduction of generic drugs in the marketissues that would be addressed by the bipartisan CREATES Act.\r\nThe full text of the senators letter is below.\r\nDear Commissioner Gottlieb:\r\nWe have heard from thousands of our constituents about skyrocketing prescription drug prices and have proposed several bills to address this urgent problemincluding by allowing for the safe importation of prescription drugs. Earlier this year, we also asked the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Health and Human Services to use existing statutory authority to allow for individuals to import prescription drugs for personal use. While we appreciate that you have acknowledged that too many patients are being priced out of the medicines they need, we are concerned that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may be taking actions to scale back the agencys non-enforcement policy that currently allows for limited importation of prescription drugs.\r\nAlthough the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibits the importation of unapproved drugs, the FDA has long focused its enforcement efforts on products apparently intended for the commercial market and on fraudulent products, and those that pose an unreasonable health risk. According to the agencys Regulatory Procedures Manual, FDA personnel may allow entry of shipments when the quantity and purpose are clearly for personal use, and the product does not present an unreasonable risk to the user. This non-enforcement policy for prescription drugs with a valid prescription has been FDAs position for many years.\r\nWe are concerned that a November 20, 2017 report by Kaiser Health News may indicate a change in this longstanding policy. The article notes that FDA sent criminal investigation agents with search warrants into nine Florida stores that help patients buy prescription drugs from pharmacies in Canada. It is our understanding that these stores solely assist patients who prefer to purchase prescription drugs from outside the United States  including by helping patients avoid websites that sell fraudulent or unsafe products  and do not dispense drugs themselves. The report states that these stores, several of which have been open for more than a decade, fear FDAs actions reflect a decision by the Trump Administration to scale back or reverse the non-enforcement policy.\r\nAdditionally, Senators McCain (R-AZ) and Klobuchar (D-MN) have introduced the Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act, which would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow for the personal importation of prescription drugs from approved pharmacies in Canada for personal use with a valid prescription. The legislation specifically excludes controlled substances and biologics. Your endorsement of this legislation would demonstrate the FDAs commitment to lowering prescription drug prices in this country.\r\nDue to our concerns that the FDA actions in Florida may reflect a change in policy, we request that you respond to the following questions no later than January 5, 2018.\r\n \r\nHas the FDA changed the policy included in the 2016 Regulatory Procedures Manual regarding personal importation of safe prescription drugs from Canada?\r\nIf so, what is the current policy?\r\nAre there any barriers to the certification of importation of prescription drugs from Canada in the following circumstances?\r\n \r\na) The drug is off patent or no longer marketed in the U.S. by the innovator company that initially developed the drug;\r\nb) Significant and unexplained increases in price;\r\nc) No direct competitor drug is currently in the market and introduction of a competitor drug will lower the prices paid by taxpayers and consumers; or\r\nd) The drug is produced in another country by the name brand manufacturer that initially developed the drug or by a well-known generic manufacturer that commonly sells pharmaceutical products in the U.S.\r\nThank you for your prompt attention to this matter.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-fight-for-transparency-in-corporate-political-spending", "MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL FIGHT FOR TRANSPARENCY IN CORPORATE POLITICAL SPENDING", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CT", "Christopher Murphy", "M001169", "www.murphy.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL FIGHT FOR TRANSPARENCY IN CORPORATE POLITICAL SPENDING\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 26, 2017\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.)  who have supported transparency in campaign finance since Citizens United opened the floodgates for unlimited, unchecked corporate spending in elections  joined U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and a group of 38 other Senate Democrats in urging Senate leadership to reject any language in the 2018 Appropriations bill that would prohibit the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from requiring public companies to disclose political spending to shareholders. In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), the senators also emphasized that the capability of foreign entities to pour money into Americas elections poses a risk to the free and fair democratic elections that the United States values.\r\nWe believe the SEC should require companies to disclose to their shareholders how they use corporate resources for political activities. This disclosure would not only bring much needed accountability to shareholders and transparency to corporate political spending, but it is both clearly consistent with the SECs requirement for public companies to disclose meaningful financial information to the public and squarely within the SECs primary mission of investor protection, the senators letter stated.\r\nGiven that we know the Russian Internet Research Agency purchased digital ads meant to sway American voters and sow chaos, it is critical that we use every tool in our toolbox to shine light on any money being funneled by Russia or any other foreign entity in an attempt to undermine or dismantle our democracy, the senators continued.\r\nJoining Murphy, Blumenthal, and Menendez on the letter are U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Kristen Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Thomas Carper (D-Del.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Christopher Coons (D-Del.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Mich.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.).\r\nA copy of the letter can be found below and here.\r\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnell  Senate Majority Leader  Room S-230, U.S. Capitol  Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Charles Schumer  Senate Minority Leader  Room, S-221, U.S. Capitol  Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Leaders McConnell and Schumer,  As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2018 Appropriations bill, we respectfully request that you reject any language that would limit the Securities and Exchange Commissions (SEC) ability to develop, propose, issue, finalize, or implement a rule requiring public companies to disclose political spending to shareholders. We write to highlight the importance of excluding any such language because the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 regrettably included language doing just that. We believe the SEC should require companies to disclose to their shareholders how they use corporate resources for political activities. This disclosure would not only bring much needed accountability to shareholders and transparency to corporate political spending, but it is both clearly consistent with the SECs requirement for public companies to disclose meaningful financial information to the public and squarely within the SECs primary mission of investor protection. Moreover, disclosure of corporate political spending has obvious value for our democracyit adds transparency to campaign finance, and it keeps the elections process free and fair of super-funded influences here in the U.S. or from elsewhere. The threat to our democracy from undisclosed money flowing into our elections is not confined to our countrys biggest corporations tipping the balance of power heavily in their favor. We also run the risk of allowing foreign influence to seep into our election process through undisclosed political spending. Given that we know the Russian Internet Research Agency purchased digital ads meant to sway American voters and sow chaos,[1] it is critical that we use every tool in our toolbox to shine light on any money being funneled by Russia or any other foreign entity in an attempt to undermine or dismantle our democracy.  Although it is technically illegal for a campaign to receive a contribution from a foreign national, the current campaign finance disclosure and enforcement regime makes it all too possible for contributions from foreign nationals to go undetected. Increased transparency around political spending and robust enforcement are necessary to reveal the true source of election spending in this country. The Supreme Courts 2010 decision in Citizens United v. FEC fundamentally changed our nations campaign finance laws by allowing unlimited and unchecked corporate spending on campaign ads and various other political communicationsa decision with which we fervently disagree. However, notwithstanding our disagreement with the Courts holding, the decision clearly recognized shareholder and public interest in the disclosure of political spending. In fact, Justice Kennedy wrote:  [P]rompt disclosure of expenditures can provide shareholders and citizens with the information needed to hold corporations and elected officials accountable for their positions and supporters. [D]isclosure permits citizens and shareholders to react to the speech of corporate entities in a proper way. This transparency enables the electorate to make informed decisions and give proper weight to different speakers and messages.[2] The lack of proper disclosure undermines the very campaign finance system envisioned by the Court. For seven long years, companies have had free rein to solidify their influence in politics and maximize their impact on elections. As the magnitude of the problem and the potential for abuse has skyrocketed, investor demand for this information has greatly intensified. In addition to the obvious benefits to democracy, the case for disclosure is clear purely as a matter of corporate governance and investor protection. Without disclosure, investors have no way of knowing whether corporate executives are spending their money on political causes that may be directly adverse to shareholder interests. Moreover, shareholders have shown time and again that they want this type of disclosure. To date, more than 1.2 million securities experts, institutional and individual investors, and members of the public have pressed the SEC to promulgate a rule to require public companies to disclose their political spending. Notably, the 1.2 million members of the public are joined in their support of the rulemaking by former SEC Chairs Arthur Levitt (D) and William Donaldson (R) and former Commissioner Bevis Longstreth (D), who emphasized in a May 2015 letter to former SEC Chair Mary Jo White that the Supreme Courts expectation of disclosure would only be met by compelling companies to inform shareholders of their political activities.  We believe any appropriations language intended to block this critical disclosure will serve only to impede the SECs ability to perform its primary mission of investor protection. Considering this and the threat that secret political spending poses to shareholders and our democracy writ large, we urge you to reject any language that would prohibit the SEC from taking any action to require public companies to disclose their political spending to shareholders. We thank you for your leadership to restore transparency, accountability, and critical investor protections, and we thank you for your consideration of this important request. Sincerely, ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/news/senator-stabenow-statement-on-passing-of-marquette-mayor-tom-baldini", "Senator Stabenow Statement on Passing of Marquette Mayor Tom Baldini", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Stabenow", "S000770", "www.stabenow.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Stabenow Statement on Passing of Marquette Mayor Tom Baldini \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 26, 2017\n\t\t\t\t  \n\t\t\t  \n\t\t\tU.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow tonight released the following statement on the passing of Tom Baldini, Mayor of Marquette:\r\n\r\nTom Baldini has been an icon in Michigan Democratic politics and the ultimate champion for our UP. His life epitomized the meaning of public service. He was a mentor to so many over the years, and I always valued his friendship and advice. Although his passing leaves a big void, his legacy is a lasting reminder to all of us of what it means to serve. My thoughts and prayers are with Toms family at this very difficult time.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/in-the-news/in-the-news-bill-proposes-adding-protection-for-native-american-children-officers", "IN THE NEWS: Bill proposes adding protection for Native American children, officers", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Noel Lyn Smith, nsmith@daily-times.com\n            Published 10:00 p.m. MT Dec. 26, 2017\n        Shiprock Chapter President Duane \"Chili\" Yazzie, left, talks with U.S. Sen. Tom Udall during a Sept. 2017 visit to Shiprock. Udall introduced a bill Dec. 14 designed to further develop tribal jurisdiction provisions in the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act.(Photo11: Daily Times file photo)FARMINGTON A federal measure introduced this month proposes increasing protection for Native American children and tribal policeinvolved in domestic violence incidents on tribal lands. The Native Youth and Tribal Officer Protection Act would further develop the tribal jurisdiction provisions in the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act by expanding protectionto children and law enforcement personnel. The bill also calls for enhancing victim resources for tribal communities. In March 2013, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act was signed into law. It recognizes tribes' authority to exercise jurisdiction over natives and non-natives who commit acts of domestic violence, dating violence or criminally violate protection orders. The 2013 act did not allow tribes to arrest or prosecute offenders for threatening or committing domestic violence against children or committing violence against officers responding to such incidents. U.S. Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., introduced the bill on Dec. 14 and it was referred to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. \"There are far too many desperate stories illustrating how Native American women, children and law enforcement are caught up in acts of domestic violence while the perpetrator goes unpunished. The failure to shield these individuals from violence should outrage us all,\" Udall said in a press release from his office. \"With this bill, we can close a dark and desperate loophole in tribal criminal jurisdiction,\" Udall said. Sens. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, and Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., are cosponsoring the bill. \"I am pleased to join with my colleagues in expanding this jurisdiction to include crimes against children as well as those against law enforcement officers. We still have a long way to go in fully empowering tribes to address criminal offenses in their Indian Country, but this is an important next step,\" Cortez Masto said in the release. The release states the Navajo Nation is among the entities supporting the measure. Support has been issued also by the All Pueblo Council of Governors and the pueblos of Acoma, Santa Ana and Santa Clara. Noel Lyn Smith covers the Navajo Nation for The Daily Times. She can be reached at 505-564-4636 or by email at nsmith@daily-times.com. Read or Share this story: https://www.daily-times.com/story/news/local/navajo-nation/2017/12/27/bill-proposes-adding-protection-native-american-children-officers/982960001/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/op-eds/how-to-keep-the-supreme-court-from-partisanship", "How to Keep the Supreme Court From Partisanship", "2017-12-26", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "RI", "Sheldon Whitehouse", "W000802", "www.whitehouse.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.26.17\n\t\t\t How to Keep the Supreme Court From Partisanship \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tI share the same concern as Ilya Shapiro in his op-ed Another Escalation in the Judicial War (Dec. 18) that Americans will follow the politicians lead and think of judges in increasingly partisan terms, and I agree that its not healthy for an independent judiciary. One obvious solution is for the Supreme Court to render fewer 5-4 partisan decisions that so obviously confer electoral and financial benefit on the GOP and its corporate benefactors, and so often violate judicial norms to deliver the goods. Note to emperor: Wear clothes.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t  \n\t\t\t\t    By:\n\t\t\t\t    Sheldon Whitehouse\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t  \n\t\t\t\tSource:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWall Street Journal\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crowley.house.gov/press-release/chairman-crowley-statement-christmas-day", "Chairman Crowley Statement on Christmas Day", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Joseph Crowley", "C001038", "crowley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Queens, N.Y.)  House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-NY) issued the following statement on Christmas Day:\nFrom my family to yours, Merry Christmas. I hope this day is filled with family, love, charity, and happiness.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/pelosi-updates/monstrosity", "Monstrosity", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "#TaxScam\nThis week the Republican Congress shamelessly cheered raising taxes on millions of middle class families, in a brazen, all-out assault on the futures of hard-working Americans, just to benefit the wealthy and well-connected.\n\nCongresswoman Pelosi and Senator Schumer held a press conference immediately following the passage of this Tax Scam to discuss the impacts it will have on middle class families.\nAccording tonon-partisan analysispublished by the Tax Policy Center, the final bill passed this week will raise taxes on 86 million middle class households and hand 83 percent of the benefits to the wealthiest one percent. By the end, more than half of all American households will pay higher taxes under this tax scam.\nThose who voted for this tax increase for middle class families voted to let the wealthiest one percentsteal the future of the middle classin America. This bill will go down as one of the most scandalous, obscene acts of plutocracy ever.\nIn the case of California, a dozenCalifornia House Republicansjoined their colleagues to pass this tax scam, perpetrating a monumental theft from hard-working Californians. This tax scam will have particularly devastatingconsequences for middle class familiesin our state, and Californians will not forget the Members who pushed this monstrous bill over the finish line. Democrats remain committed to fighting for Americas hard working families and offering the American people a better deal.\nHappy Holidays\nThe Holiday Season offers a special opportunity to reflect on the miraculous blessings of family, community and Country. As we celebrate in the company of our loved ones, I want to express my continued and profound gratitude for the honor of representing you in the Congress. Please accept my best wishes for a happy holiday and Happy New Year to you and your family.\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMy office recently assisted a constituent who has not received rent payments owed to him from the San Francisco Housing Authority (SFHA). He had contacted our office because he had not been receiving the SFHA rent contribution for two of his tenants that receive a Section 8 Housing Voucher. Therefore, my staff contacted SFHA on his behalf and conveyed the details of his situation. As a result, SFHA issued retroactive payments for the owed rent contribution. He is now fully reimbursed from SFHA.\n\t\t\t\tCaseworkers in my San Francisco office work to address any problems or concerns you may have with a federal government agency. To submit a Casework Authorization Form, pleasevisitmy website.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/147140-stop-snake", "$147,140 to stop the snake", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "$147,140 to stop the snake                                           \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    Funding to fight invasive species, like the Brown Tree Snake, is something I always support when we make the annual appropriation decisions in Congress. The snake has caused significant damage to Guam and its spread puts the rest of the Marianas at economic and environmental risk.\n$147,140 of this years funding will be transferred from the Interior Department to the Agriculture Departments Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services Interior announced today. APHIS is engaged at interdiction work at the commercial port on Guam, work that is essential to prevent the spread of the brown tree snake to our islands. So far this fiscal year, over $900,000 has been spent in the Pacific to stop the snake.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/standing-bureaucrats", "Standing up to bureaucrats", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Standing up to bureaucrats                                           \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    As Ranking Member on the Health, Employment, Pension and Labor Subcommittee, I am responsible for leading on national labor issues. That is why, along with Democratic Senators Patty Murray of Washington, Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, and Margaret Wood Hassan of Nevada, and my House colleagues Bobby Scott of Virginia and Donald Norcross of New Jersey, I questioned recent actions of the National Labor Relations Board and demanded more information.\nThe job of the NLRB is to protect the rights of private sector employees to act together to improve their wages and working conditions. Earlier this month, however, when the expiring term of one Member threatened the Republican 3-2 majority, the Board issued a spate of dubious anti-worker and anti-union rulings that reversed previous Board decisions. The Board acted without sufficient findings of fact or opportunity for public input. Such high-handed action by federal bureaucrats has to be challenged.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/we-fixing-cw-misclassifications", "We are fixing CW misclassifications", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "We are fixing CW misclassifications                                           \n              Dec 25, 2017      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n        \n            \n        \n      \n    \n    \n    Three constituents have asked their congressional office for help on CW permit applications misclassified as for construction workers. Two cases have been resolved and permits issued. The third is pending. So, I wrote to Governor Ralph Torres and the Northern Marianas Business Alliance Corporation to let them know we could help on any similar case they wanted to bring to me.\nThe Governor and NMBAC representatives met me and said the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is denying applications for gardeners, hotel maintenance workers, and CUC engineers, because they are misclassified as permits for construction workers. U.S. Public Law 115-53, which President Trump signed in August, bars the use of CW permits for new construction workers. I wrote this law to protect our local businesses, who could not renew CW permits they depend on, after some 5,000 new Chinese construction workers used up the permits beginning in 2016. So, I want to be sure local businesses are not harmed by any misapplication of the law.\nStart here if you need help.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/week-congress-december-22-2017", "THIS WEEK IN CONGRESS - December 22, 2017", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In this issue:\n____________________________________________________________________________\n Marianas vets clinic study okayed \nThe House Veterans Affairs' Committee voted in favor of my amendment requiring a report on the feasibility of putting a VA-staffed health clinic in the Marianas. We are one of the few areas of the country without easy access to a clinic. Getting one is my top priority now that I am a member of the Veterans Affairs' Committee. My amendment becomes part of thebill making the Choice program permanent. Choice pays for veterans in areas like ours, where vets have to travel by plane to get to a VA clinic, to go to private health care providers instead. We helped about 70 local doctors and clinics sign on to Choice this year as part of our outreach effort for Marianas veterans. And we worked to make sure veterans know that Choice is now an option for them and understand how to use the system. The Choice bill, H.R. 4242, should go to the full House for a vote in January.\n Crisis averted at BECQ \nCalling it a crisis earlier this year, Governor Ralph Torres and BECQ Administrator Frank Rabauliman said President Trumps proposal to cut spending at the Environmental Protection Agency would have direct and possibly irreversible effects on the environment and public health in the CNMI. Fortunately, along with many members of Congress, I pushed back in our annual appropriation process by prioritizing EPA funding and blocked the Presidents cuts. Today EPA announced the Marianas Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality has received an additional $1.3 million, bringing the total for the year to $2.3 million, almost 100 percent of BECQs annual operating funds. Environmental protection is targeted for cuts by the Trump administration. But for this year: crisis averted.\n Tax bill signed: effect on NMI? \nWithout therequested data from the Commonwealth government, I cannot report on the specific effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed on a purely Republican vote in Congresson Wednesdayand signed by the President today. Two things are clear, however:\n\n\t2018 is the year the Commonwealth government will have to start making up for the lost income tax revenue and cuts in federal grants, resulting from the Trump tax cuts.\n\t No pay cuts for federal workers \n\tOn behalf of the hundreds of federal employees in the Northern Marianas, this weekI opposed any further cuts to their pay or benefits, as Congress begins looking around for ways to pay for the new tax cut law. Our federal workers, who could often make more in the private sector, embody the work ethic and commitment to service that makes America great. They have already seen pay and benefit cuts of $182 billion since 2011. We can not ask more of them, particularly not to offset the $1.5 trillion cut in taxes the President signed today.\n\t  \n\t\n\n We fixing CW misclassifications \nThree constituents have asked their congressional office for help on CW permit applications misclassified as for construction workers. Two cases have been resolved and permits issued. The third is pending. So,I wrote to Governor Ralph Torres and the Northern Marianas Business Alliance Corporationthis week to let them know we could help on any similar case they wanted to bring to me. The Governor and NMBAC representatives met me last week and said the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is denying applications for gardeners, hotel maintenance workers, and CUC engineers, because they are misclassified as permits for construction workers.U.S. Public Law 115-53, which President Trump signed in August, bars the use of CW permits for new construction workers. I wrote this law to protect our local businesses, who could not renew CW permits they depend on, after some 5,000 new Chinese construction workers used up the permits beginning in 2016. So, I want to be sure local businesses are not harmed by any misapplication of the law.Start here if you need help.\n Standing up to bureaucrats \nAs Ranking Member on the Health, Employment, Pension and Labor Subcommittee, I am responsible for leading on national labor issues. That is why, along with Democratic Senators Patty Murray of Washington, Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, and Margaret Wood Hassan of Nevada, and my House colleagues Bobby Scott of Virginia and Donald Norcross of New Jersey, Iquestioned recent actions of the National Labor Relations Boardanddemanded more information. The job of the NLRB is to protect the rights of private sector employees to act together to improve their wages and working conditions. Earlier this month, however, when the expiring term of one Member threatened the Republican 3-2 majority, the Board issued a spate of dubious anti-worker and anti-union rulings that reversed previous Board decisions. The Board acted without sufficient findings of fact or opportunity for public input. Such high-handed action by federal bureaucrats has to be challenged.\n $147,140 to stop the snake \nFunding to fight invasive species, like the Brown Tree Snake, is something I always support when we make the annual appropriation decisions in Congress. The snake has caused significant damage to Guam and its spread puts the rest of the Marianas at economic and environmental risk. $147,140 of this years funding will be transferred from the Interior Department to the Agriculture Departments Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services Interior announced today. APHIS is engaged at interdiction work at the commercial port on Guam, work that is essential to prevent the spread of the brown tree snake to our islands. So far this fiscal year, over $900,000 has been spent in the Pacific to stop the snake.\n\t\t\t\tOPPORTUNITIES\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\tGrants:\n\t\t\t\tJobs:\n\t\t\t\tPublic Comments:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLEGISLATIVE HIGHLIGHTS\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTHIS WEEK\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOn the Floor\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 1 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act(Passed, 224-201)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 1370 Further Continuing Resolution(Passed, 231-188)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 4667 Making further supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year endingSeptember 30, 2018, for disaster assistance for Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and calendar year 2017 wildfires, and for other purposes (Passed,251-169)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 3312 Systemic Risk Designation Improvement Act of 2017 (Passed,288-130)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 4015 Corporate Governance Reform and Transparency Act of 2017 (Passed,238-182)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tS. 1393 Jobs for Our Heroes Act (Passed, 418-0)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tS. 1536 Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act (Passed, 418-1)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tS. 1532 No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act (Passed, 393-0)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 3759 RAISE Family Caregivers Act (Agreed to by voice vote)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 4661 United States Fire Administration, AFG, and SAFER Program Reauthorization Act of 2017 (Agreed to by voice vote)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 4375 STEM Research and Education Effectiveness and Transparency Act (Passed, 376-9)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 4254 Women in Aerospace Education Act (Passed, 409-17)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 4323 Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act (Passed, 420-1)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.R. 1159 United States and Israel Space Cooperation Act (Passed, 411-0)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tH.Con.Res. 95 Expressing support for the use of public-private partnerships to bring computer science education to more K-12 classrooms (Agreed to by voice vote)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNEXT WEEK\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe House is on recess for the District Work Period.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/in-the-news/in-the-news-new-mexicos-best-and-brightest-nominated-for-us-service-academies", "IN THE NEWS: New Mexico's 'best and brightest' nominated for U.S. service academies", "2017-12-25", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque Jounral\n            Published 10:59 a.m. MT Dec. 25, 2017\n        Buy PhotoU.S. Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M.(Photo11: Robin Zielinski / Sun-News)Buy PhotoALBUQUERQUE- U.S. Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., is saluting the 50 New Mexico students he has nominated to attend a U.S. service academy in 2018. Students receiving a nod completed a competitive application process, including an interview with the senator's Military Academy Service Panels, according to a news release. \"These students represent New Mexico's best and brightest, and I wish them luck as they continue with the admissions process,\" Udall said in a statement. \"(They) ... have demonstrated strong leadership in both their academic and extracurricular endeavors, as well as a commitment to serve -- a true testament to their character and motivation.\" A congressional, vice-presidential or service-connected nomination is required for admission to a U.S. service academy. Nominated to West Point were: Micah Bibb of Albuquerque, Ainsley Burrell of Albuquerque, Robert \"Frankie\" Coyle of Albuquerque, Tyler Pittman of Albuquerque and Adam Winters of Albuquerque; Travis Alarcon of Roswell; Annika Davenport of Los Alamos; Cameron Kuykendall of Clovis; Lauren Naranjo of Espaola; and August Rannow of White Sands. Nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy were: Henry Berry of Albuquerque, Eric Howe of Albuquerque and Caleb Meyer-Hagen of Albuquerque; Joseph Heinlein of Tome; Brittany Holden-Rhodes of Placitas; Gabriella Mayes of Rio Rancho; Ryan Ortiz of Las Cruces; Thomas Smith of Bosque Farms; Brenden Strickland of Hobbs; and Landry Truex of Portales. Nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy were: Benjamin Dallas of Albuquerque, Marisa Granados of Albuquerque, Sean Jahner of Albuquerque, Adam Kedge of Albuquerque, Markus Parrish of Albuquerque, Joshua Pavek of Albuquerque, Luca Seazzu of Albuquerque and Grace White of Albuquerque; Andrea Almodovar of Rio Rancho, Justin Cabiltes of Rio Rancho, Justin Hontanosas of Rio Rancho, and Angelina Lopez of Rio Rancho; Jacqueline Cervantes-Vanderlugt of Las Cruces, Lucas Donahue of Las Cruces; Alexander Ferenczhalmy of Alamogordo; Corde Mailman of Clovis; Maryssa Anita Martin of Espaola; Elena Martinez of Placitas; Colton Powell of Cedar Crest; and Madison Varnier of Holloman AFB. Nominated to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy were: Jacob Echevarria of Albuquerque, Lane Hagstrom of Albuquerque, Alexis Hunter of Albuquerque, Davis Little of Albuquerque, Todd Snow of Albuquerque and Joseph Witiuk of Albuquerque; Megan Edwards of Clovis; Ashley Gabaldon and Morgan MacKenzie of Rio Rancho; and Tyler Holder of Los Lunas. Read or Share this story: http://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/new-mexico/2017/12/25/new-mexicos-best-and-brightest-nominated-u-s-service-academies/980637001/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-afghanistan-christmas-troops", "Cicilline in Afghanistan for Christmas with Troops", "2017-12-24", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "RI", "David Cicilline", "C001084", "cicilline.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "KABUL Earlier this morning, U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (RI-01), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, landed in Kabul, Afghanistan, where he will celebrate Christmas with men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who are serving there as part of Operation Resolute Support.  \n\t\t\nWe owe our servicemembers and their families an incredible debt, said Cicilline, who represents more than 30,000 veterans in Rhode Islands First District. The men and women of the United States Armed Forces represent our countrys most important values of service, honor, and courage. Its an incredible privilege to spend Christmas with these brave men and women.  \n\t\t\nCicilline touched down in Afghanistan today at5:00 AM EDT(2:30 PMKabul time). He then traveled to Resolute Support Headquarters before receiving a security briefing from U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan designate John R. Bass at the U.S. Embassy.  \n\t\t\nCicilline is visiting Afghanistan along with three Republican colleagues from the House Foreign Affairs Committee  U.S. Congressman Lee Zeldin, U.S. Congressman Mike Coffman, and U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick.  \n\t\t\nTomorrowmorning, Cicilline will join Rhode Islanders serving as part of Operation Resolute Support for a Christmas Day breakfast. Later, he will take part in a series of briefings, visit tactical bases in the region, and serve Christmas Day lunch to troops at Resolution Support Headquarters. He will depart Kabultomorrowevening.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norton-commemorates-44th-anniversary-of-home-rule-act", "Norton Commemorates 44th Anniversary of Home Rule Act, Today", "2017-12-24", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "DC", "Eleanor Norton", "N000147", "norton.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) issued the following statement today on the 44th anniversary of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which was signed into law by Republican President Richard Nixon on December 24, 1973. Today, Norton published a series of tweets outlining the Republican attacks on D.C. home rule, which can be viewed here.\nAs we insist on statehood for the District of Columbia, today we remember Christmas Eve, 44 years ago, when the Home Rule Act was signed into law. Going on the House floor in remembrance is one way to commemorate this special anniversary. Another is to call out the continuing attacks on D.C. home rule, notwithstanding the Home Rule Act. Fighting back makes all the difference, and this year we defeated all but two of the 16 attacks on D.C. local laws.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/in-the-news/in-the-news-trumps-controversial-epa-nominee-withdraws-following-gop-objections", "IN THE NEWS: Trumps controversial EPA nominee withdraws following GOP objections", "2017-12-24", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Michael Dourson, a researcher whose work had been frequently used by chemical companies to downplay the hazards posed by their products, has withdrawn his name from consideration to oversee the Environmental Protection Agency's chemical safety division.\nDourson became the target of substantial opposition from both Democrats and public health advocacy groups when his nomination was announced, according to NBC News. The concern was that, because he had spent decades conducting research that chemicals companies used to allay public concerns about the safety risks posed by their products, Dourson might not be impartial enough to effectively serve the public's interest in his position at the Environmental Protection Agency.\nHis relationship with close relationship with the American Chemistry Council was apparently so egregious thatRepublican Senators Richard Burr and Thom Tillis of North Carolinacame out in opposition to his his nomination last month. Republican Sen. Susan Collins also stated that she was leaning against him.\n\"Instead of draining the swamp, [Trump] has filled it up with some of the swampiest creatures ever. And it keeps getting scarier  Michael Dourson might be the worst yet. Dr. Dourson has made a career of creating junk science for industry,\" Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., said in November.\nHis concerns were echoed by Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.\n\"We need someone who's going to be a watchdog, not a lapdog for the special-interest chemical industry and other producers of contaminants and substances that can literally kill people, or stunt the growth of children, or make people sick,\" Blumenthal said at the time.\nDourson's nomination never reached the point where it was scheduled for a confirmation vote. Sen. Thomas Carper, D-Del., mounted a behind-the-scenes effort to convince his colleagues to reject Dourson's nomination, according to The New York Times. Dourson notified the White House on Wednesday that he was withdrawing his name.\n\"I sincerely believe he is the wrong person to hold this important position, and it's become clear that, even with a Republican majority in the Senate, he could not be confirmed. Dr. Dourson, an individual who has spent most of his career promoting less protective chemical safety standards, had no business overseeing our nation's chemical safety laws,\" Carper said in a statement.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/kilili-already-working-uscis-misclassification-cws", "Kilili working with USCIS on misclassification of CWs", "2017-12-23", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Saipan Tribune  WASHINGTON, D.C.- Delegate Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (Ind-MP) will take any specific cases of CNMI-Only Transitional Worker applicants misclassified as new construction workers to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for review.\n\tUSCIS has already issued permits for applications initially rejected, after the congressman worked with the applicant and the agency to get further consideration. Sablan explained this success in a letter to Gov. Ralph DLG Torres yesterday and asked the governor to send any similar cases to the congressional office for assistance.\n\tSablan also sent a copy of his letter to Torres to the Northern Marianas Business Alliance Corp.\n\tIn the letter, Sablan said he agreed with Torres that the bar on gardeners, hotel maintenance workers, and even Commonwealth Utility Corp. engineers appears inconsistent with the intent of Public Law 115-53.\n\tPlease send me these specific cases or any others in which a permit applicant believes that misclassification as a new construction worker has occurred. I will promptly refer the case to USCIS as a congressional inquiry to help ensure it receives timely and thorough review, he wrote.\n\tSablan added that the congressional office in fact has already managed three such cases. In two the misclassification was corrected and the permits awarded. A decision in the third case is pending.\n\tAs you know, the intent of Public Law 115-53 was to protect our local business people, who depend on CW workers, from the flood of new construction workers that began in 2016 and used up as many as 5,000 CW permits. I will continue to do all I can to prevent harm to our local business community or legacy CW workers, as I have with the cases already brought to me for help, Sablan ended his letter to Torres.\n\tTo obtain congressional assistance on immigration or any other matter regarding the federal government, contact the congressional office on Saipan, Tinian, or Rota or go to https://sablan.house.gov/serving-you/help-federal-agency. All cases are handled with complete confidentiality. (PR)", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sablan.house.gov/regarding-hr-339-northern-marianas-economic-expansion-act", "Regarding HR 339, the Northern Marianas Economic Expansion Act", "2017-12-23", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MP", "Gregorio Sablan", "S001177", "sablan.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Marianas Variety  (Office of the CNMI Congressional Delegate)  U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Sablan issued the following statement Thursday in response to media inquiries this week:\nGreetings,\n Thank you for your requests for a response to recent statements made this week by Governor Torres, that he did not support H.R. 339, the Northern Marianas Economic Expansion Act, which President Trump signed in August, and that some workers are being denied CW permits because USCIS is now misclassifying them as new construction workers. The Northern Marianas Business Alliance Corporation, the lobbying arm of the Governors Strategic Economic Development Council, has issued similar statements.\nFirst, here is what the Governor testified before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee during a hearing on H.R. 339 on April 27, 2017:\n Two years ago, I requested that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services review the issuance of CW permits to individuals in the construction trades. In my view, CW permits were only for job categories not available under existing visa classifications, and that construction workers could be sourced through H2-B visas.\n As we look back at the CW permits issued in the last two years, it is evident that a large majority of the new permits that have led to the shortage have been in the construction trades. Removing construction workers from the eligible job categories for the CW permit will force employers to go to better suited visa classifications and alleviate the limited CW permits for occupations that are crucial for the overall economy and the needs of the people.\nThe Governor supported passage of H.R. 339 at that time and without reservation. The only subsequent change in the bill before it became law was to set the number of extra CW permits for FY17 at 350 and to set aside some of those for health workers, a need the Governor highlighted, and for power plant operators.\nH.R. 339s bar on the use of CW permits for new construction workers never changed from the introduction of the bill to the day President Trump signed it into law. Moreover, that same language is reflected in draft legislation that NMBA began circulating in June this year. And, as the Governor points out in his testimony, he had requested that USCIS look at the issuance of CW permits for construction workers two years ago, because construction workers could be sourced through H2-B visas.\nFor the record, I believe he was absolutely correct in advocating then for employers of construction workers to use H-2B visas and not the limited CW permits that so many of our other local businesses rely on. I will also note that the Governor was publicly urging construction companies to switch to H-2B visas even before the Senate hearing (see, for example: http://www.mvariety.com/cnmi/cnmi-news/local/84385-torres-pursue-h-visas-and-preserve-cw-permits-for-critical-positions). So he has been consistent on this position, until now.\nAnd while it is certainly the Governors prerogative to change his mind, I will note that the Members of Congress to whom the Governor testified  under oath  in support of this law are the same Members of Congress that I am working with now to make sure we have enough workers in our economy. We need their help. And if these Members of Congress believe that the word of the Governor of the Marianas cannot be trusted, they may be much less willing to listen to what he says the Marianas needs.\nSecond, I strongly encourage any employer who believes that their employees have been erroneously classified as new construction workers to come to the congressional office for assistance. Under the law, the bar on new construction workers in the CW program explicitly applies to positions that fall under the U.S. Department of Labors Standard Occupational Classification Group 47-0000. Maintenance, repair, utility worker, and many other positions are in entirely different occupational categories and should not be barred from the CW program.\nBringing specific cases of misclassification forward is important because it is difficult for the congressional office, or USCIS for that matter, to address anecdotal complaints, especially since USCIS adjudicates all CW petitions on a case-by-case basis. In fact, the congressional office has already been working with USCIS to review three cases of possible misclassification. In two of these cases, the misclassification was corrected and the CW petitions were approved. A decision is pending in the third case.\nLike the Governor and many others, my heart goes out to the workers and employers who have been part of our community for years and helped build our economy. I have worked hard to help them, and I am continuing to do so. We are making good progress in the bipartisan, bicameral working group in Congress to craft long-term legislation to ensure that we have enough labor in the Marianas beyond 2019, and that we continue to build and grow our U.S. workforce.\nPartisan politics aside, I will continue to work with the Governor, the people we represent, and my colleagues in Congress on these labor policy issues that are so critical to us all in the Marianas.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://sarbanes.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/sarbanes-discusses-infrastructure-daca-and-protecting-the-mueller", "Sarbanes Discusses Infrastructure, DACA and Protecting the Mueller Investigation", "2017-12-23", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MD", "John Sarbanes", "S001168", "sarbanes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Arundel Center\n44 Calvert Street, Suite 349\n\n\nAnnapolis, MD 21401\n\n  Phone: (410) 295-1679  \n\tFax: (410) 295-1682  \n\tHours: Tu, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://serrano.house.gov/media-center/serrano-report/serrano-report-december-23-2017", "The Serrano Report - Volume XVI, Issue #28", "2017-12-23", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Jos\u00e9 Serrano", "S000248", "serrano.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In Washington, DC\n  Congressman Serrano Speaks Out Against Disaster Supplemental\nCongressman Serrano spoke on the House Floor in strong opposition of the Disaster Supplemental. The supplemental provides $81 billion dollars in aid to be split amongst Texas, California, Florida, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. This means that the funding that will be allocated for Puerto Rico will not be even nearly close to the $94 billion that the Governor of Puerto Rico, Ricardo Rosello, has requested.\nBy leaving in place numerous local cost-share requirements, the legislation puts an onerous burden on an already cash-strapped government on the island. This will make it difficult to access funds. The bill also does nothing to address the looming Medicaid cliff, which will devastate access to health care in Puerto Rico. Although the bill does make progress on the Administrations request in a number of areas- like doubling funding for the Economic Development Administration (EDA) from what was requested- the majority left much undone elsewhere, said Congressman Serrano.\nClick the image below to watch Congressman Serranos full remarks:\n\t\tCongressman Serrano Statement on Republican Tax Scam\nCongressman Jos E. Serrano voted against and issued the following statement the day the Republican tax legislation was approved in Congress:\nThis is a sad day for most Americans and a terrible way to start the Holiday season. Republicans rammed through a tax package loaded with goodies for Americas richest individuals and corporations, while leaving most Americans behind.\nThis is not a bill written to help working families in the Bronx and elsewhere. Rather, it is a windfall for billionaires and corporations that dont need it- financed on the backs of most Americans. 83% of the tax benefits in this package will go to the richest 1%. Yet time after time weve seen that trickle-down economics dont work. Those tax breaks will largely benefit rich corporations and individuals bottom line.\nThe bill also further endangers our commitments to seniors and the most vulnerable in our society. It explodes the deficit, and I have no doubt that Republicans will now use that as a pretext to attack the most important social safety net programs Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid that so many hard working Americans rely on.\nThere is so much more that this Congress should be doing instead of filling the pockets of those who dont need help at the expense of those who can oftentimes barely make ends meet.\nThis bill was rammed through with little debate, and even less analysis. It does little to help my constituents in the Bronx. Thats why voted against this tax scam, and will continue to do everything in my power to undo it and create a tax system that actually helps working families.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398559", "U.S. Rep. Castor Calls on Florida Attorney General to Stand Against FCC Net Neutrality Rollback", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Castor Calls on Florida Attorney General to Stand Against FCC Net Neutrality Rollback \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        December 22, 2017\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n      \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement after she was joined by a number of her Florida Congressional colleagues in a letter calling on Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to stand up to the Federal Communication Commissions rollback of net neutrality rules: The Trump Administration and the FCCs decision to undo net neutrality consumer protections that ensured an open and free internet is a blow to my neighbors, families and small businesses. I am disappointed that Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi would not stand up for Florida families by joining Attorneys General from other states to urge the FCC to delay its rollback of these protections. I firmly believe an open and fair internet is important to protecting the access, innovation and opportunity many small businesses and entrepreneurs in Tampa Bay rely on. I, along with a number of my Florida Congressional colleagues, sent a letter today encouraging Attorney General Bondi to stand up to the FCCs anti-consumer move and protect Floridians by challenging the repeal of net neutrality in court. Read the letter here. ###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://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://aguilar.house.gov/2017/12/22/aguilar-issues-end-year-report-constituents-0/", "Aguilar Issues End of Year Report to Constituents", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Pete Aguilar", "A000371", "aguilar.house.gov", "aguilar", "https://aguilar.house.gov/category/congress_press_release/", "scraper", "Press Releases\n\nAguilar Issues End of Year Report to Constituents\n\nToday, Rep. Aguilar issued a year-end report to constituents of California\u2019s 31st Congressional District to review his work on behalf of Inland Empire families in 2017.\n\n\u201cThroughout this year, and throughout my time in Congress, my top priority has been to deliver results for the Inland Empire. From making it easier for returning service members to get jobs in our community, to securing critical resources for local law enforcement to keep our residents safe, my focus throughout this year has been on ensuring that our community has a chance to thrive,\u201d Aguilar said. He continued, \u201cWhether it\u2019s helping small businesses grow and create jobs, working to ensure everyone has access to affordable health care or fighting to protect Dreamers and prevent families from being torn apart, I am committed to doing all I can to support Inland Empire families.\u201d\n\nIn 2017, Rep. Aguilar:\n\nHelped 431 residents resolve issues with federal agencies such as Social Security, Medicare and the VA.\n\nHelped return nearly $725,000 that was owed to residents by the federal government.\n\nAnnounced nearly $14 million in federal funding for the Inland Empire, including over $1 million in terrorism preparedness funding.\n\nHosted the 3rd Inland Empire Jobs Fair, which resulted in over 60 Inland Empire residents getting hired.\n\nHosted a community grants workshop to connect Inland Empire organizations with federal agencies to learn about federal grant opportunities.\n\nHosted the 3rd Seniors Fair to help Inland Empire seniors find information on Medicare, Social Security or veterans benefits, as well as information on food programs and free health screenings.\n\nHosted a Veterans Resource Fair to connect Inland Empire veterans with resources on health care, housing, employment and assistance with VA claims.\n\nParticipated in 210 constituent meetings, tours and events.\n\nHosted a total of 5 town hall meetings, including a Seniors Town Hall, an Immigration Town Hall and a Telephone Town Hall for nearly 10,000 constituents.\n\nWorked five different jobs as part of his \u201cJob for a Day\u201d tour of the Inland Empire.\n\nFounded the bipartisan E-Commerce Caucus, which provides a forum for Congress to discuss one of the Inland Empire\u2019s largest industries.\n\nIntroduced seven bills to:\n\nEase the burden of student loan debt on recent graduates.\n\nReduce the skills gap and connect Inland Empire employers and job seekers.\n\nRequire the federal government to find the causes leading to domestic terror attacks to help prevent future attacks from happening.\n\nProvide local law enforcement with additional resources to prepare for and prevent mass shootings.\n\nConnect military service members with employment opportunities upon returning to civilian life.\n\nHold Trump Administration officials accountable for the misuse of taxpayer funds.\n\nHonor the life and legacy of Stater Bros. Chairman Jack Brown.\n\nPassed five amendments to major legislation, including measures to increase cyber workforce development, provide additional funding to local law enforcement, and allow DACA recipients to pursue careers in the federal government.\n\nPassed the REPORT Act through the House, to require Homeland Security to submit a report on how to prevent future terrorist attacks using the lessons learned from domestic acts of terror that happen.\n\nPassed the ADVANCE Act through the House, to allow military service members to easily transition to civilian employment. The bill was passed by the Senate and is waiting for the president to sign it into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T22:19:19Z"], ["https://aguilar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/aguilar-issues-end-year-report-constituents-0", "Aguilar Issues End of Year Report to Constituents", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Pete Aguilar", "A000371", "aguilar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Rep. Aguilar issued a year-end report to constituents of Californias 31st Congressional District to review his work on behalf of Inland Empire families in 2017.\nThroughout this year, and throughout my time in Congress, my top priority has been to deliver results for the Inland Empire. From making it easier for returning service members to get jobs in our community, to securing critical resources for local law enforcement to keep our residents safe, my focus throughout this year has been on ensuring that our community has a chance to thrive, Aguilar said. He continued, Whether its helping small businesses grow and create jobs, working to ensure everyone has access to affordable health care or fighting to protect Dreamers and prevent families from being torn apart, I am committed to doing all I can to support Inland Empire families.\nIn 2017, Rep. Aguilar:\n \nHelped 938 residents resolve issues with federal agencies such as Social Security, Medicare and the VA.\n\tHelped return nearly $725,000 that was owed to residents by the federal government.\n\tAnnounced nearly $14 million in federal funding for the Inland Empire, including over $1 million in terrorism preparedness funding.\n\tHosted the 3rd Inland Empire Jobs Fair, which resulted in over 60 Inland Empire residents getting hired.\n\tHosted a community grants workshop to connect Inland Empire organizations with federal agencies to learn about federal grant opportunities. \n\tHosted the 3rd Seniors Fair to help Inland Empire seniors find information on Medicare, Social Security or veterans benefits, as well as information on food programs and free health screenings.\n\tHosted a Veterans Resource Fair to connect Inland Empire veterans with resources on health care, housing, employment and assistance with VA claims.\n\tParticipated in 210 constituent meetings, tours and events.\n\tHosted a total of 5 town hall meetings, including a Seniors Town Hall, an Immigration Town Hall and a Telephone Town Hall for nearly 10,000 constituents.\n\tWorked five different jobs as part of his Job for a Day tour of the Inland Empire.\n\tFounded the bipartisan E-Commerce Caucus, which provides a forum for Congress to discuss one of the Inland Empires largest industries.\n\tIntroduced seven bills to:\n\t\t\nEase the burden of student loan debt on recent graduates.\n\t\t\tReduce the skills gap and connect Inland Empire employers and job seekers.\n\t\t\tRequire the federal government to find the causes leading to domestic terror attacks to help prevent future attacks from happening.\n\t\t\tProvide local law enforcement with additional resources to prepare for and prevent mass shootings.\n\t\t\tConnect military service members with employment opportunities upon returning to civilian life.\n\t\t\tHold Trump Administration officials accountable for the misuse of taxpayer funds.\n\t\t\tHonor the life and legacy of Stater Bros. Chairman Jack Brown.\n\t\t\n\tPassed five amendments to major legislation, including measures to increase cyber workforce development, provide additional funding to local law enforcement, and allow DACA recipients to pursue careers in the federal government.\n\tPassed the REPORT Act through the House, to require Homeland Security to submit a report on how to prevent future terrorist attacks using the lessons learned from domestic acts of terror that happen. \n\tPassed the ADVANCE Act through the House, to allow military service members to easily transition to civilian employment. The bill was passed by the Senate and is waiting for the president to sign it into law.\n \nRep. Aguilar has represented Californias 31st Congressional District since 2015. He serves on the Appropriations Committee, is the Whip of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and is an assistant whip for the House Democratic Caucus. The former Mayor of Redlands, Rep. Aguilar is committed to empowering working families across the Inland Empire.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/news-articles/house-passes-spending-bills-senate-expected-to-follow", "House passes spending bills; Senate expected to follow", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House passes spending bills; Senate expected to follow \n\nCongress Thursday appeared poised to effectively evade the last-minute threat of a government shutdown, with the House passing a bill to keep the government open through Jan. 19 and the Senate poised to follow suit later Thursday or early Friday.\nThe spending bill  which included a $2.85 billion down payment aimed at keeping the federal Childrens Health Insurance Program operational as well as reauthorizing federal surveillance powers  passed after House leadership was able to convince a group of Defense hawks including Rep. Mike Turner, RDayton, to overcome their reservations about the spending bill.\nTurner said House GOP leadership had secured their support for an earlier bill by promising that a December spending bill would include fullyear Defense funding, but, in a Wednesday night meeting on Capitol Hill, GOP leaders acknowledged that they wouldnt have the votes to pass such a measure.\nInstead, in a meeting Thursday morning, GOP leadership and defense hawks were able to agree on a short term boost of $5 billion while Congress prepares for its new Jan. 19 deadline to pass another spending bill.\nTurner said hes hopeful that after the House comes back in January, it will be able to reach a twoyear budget deal that will eliminate mandatory spending cuts for Defense that are part of federal law.\nThe final House vote was 231-188. The delegations four Democrats  Reps. Tim Ryan of Niles, Joyce Beatty of Jefferson Township, Marcy Kaptur of Toledo and Marcia Fudge of Cleveland  opposed it. Among Ohio Republicans, only Rep. Jim Jordan, RUrbana, opposed it. Rep. Jim Renacci, RWadsworth, did not vote.\nRyan said he was disappointed that the House was passing another short-term funding bill and also disappointed that it did not address a program that keeps children brought to the U.S. as immigrants from being deported. We need to be making strategic investments in education, infrastructure, and our national defense  something these continuing resolutions do not allow, he said.\nBy contrast, Rep. Steve Stivers, R-Upper Arlington, said he supports the bill in part because it keeps CHIP funding. One of the primary responsibilities of Congress is to fund the government - shutting down is simply not an option for me, he said.\n\nThe House also Thursday approved an $81 billion emergency spending bill aimed at paying for hurricanes and wildfire relief. The bill passed 251169 with 70 Democrats crossing the aisle to support the Republican bill. Fifty Republicans, including Reps. Warren Davidson of Troy, Steve Chabot of Cincinnati and Jordan opposed that bill. Renacci also missed that vote. The remaining Ohio Republicans supported it while all four Ohio Democrats in the House opposed it.\nThe bill was finished hours before the federal government was scheduled to run out of cash  midnight on Dec. 22.\nThough Republicans managed to escape the most scathing criticism about the possibility that theyd allow the Childrens Health Insurance Program to expire just days after passing tax cuts criticized as disproportionately aiding large corporations and wealthy Americans, some Democrats said the CHIP patch was not enough.\nSen. Sherrod Brown, DOhio, said the $2.85 billion in funding would effectively pay for the three months since the program has expired  basically, doling out back pay for unpaid obligations. This provides no certainty to states that are running CHIP programs, he said, speaking in front of a photo of Noble Lett, a Dublin first grader who suffers from a rare genetic disorder. Letts mother, Crystal, came to D.C. in July to lobby for an extension of the CHIP program, telling Brown that the CHIP program helped make the difference between her family living a middle-class lifestyle and living under the poverty line.\nCongress had time to hand out massive tax cuts for rich Americans and big corporations, but they didnt have time to help these families, Brown said. Its a disgrace.\nThis article was originally published byThe Columbus Dispatch on December 22, 2017.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://blumenauer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-extends-critical-medical-marijuana-protections-through-january", "Congress Extends Critical Medical Marijuana Protections Through January 19", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Earl Blumenauer", "B000574", "blumenauer.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congress voted to extend protections for state medical marijuana programs through January 19. The provision, known as the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer amendment, was continued in legislation to fund the government for a month.\nRepresentative Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus and champion of the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer amendment, released the following statement:\nPatients around the country who rely on medical marijuana for treatmentand the businesses that serve themnow have some measure of certainty. Our fight, however, continues to maintain these important protections in the next funding bill passed by Congress.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bobbyscott.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaine-warner-scott-booker-blunt-applaud-approval-of-commission-to", "Kaine, Warner, Scott, Booker & Blunt Applaud Approval of Commission to Recognize 400 Years of African American History", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Robert Scott", "S000185", "bobbyscott.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) applauded final Senate passage of their bipartisan 400 Years of African American History Commission Act  legislation establishing a National Park Service commission to commemorate the 400th anniversary in 2019 of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans into English Colonial America, marking the beginning of a new African American culture. The bill now heads to the Presidents desk for signature. Scott, Congressmen Don Beyer and Congressmen G. K. Butterfield, former Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, led the introduction of similar legislation that passed the House of Representatives this Congress.\nThis commission will be charged with recognizing and highlighting the resilience and cultural contributions of Africans and African Americans over 400 years. In August 1619, some twenty enslaved Africans were brought ashore in an English-built, Dutch flag privateer at Point Comfort, Virginia, on the site of what is now Fort Monroe National Monument in the City of Hampton. Similar commissions have been established to commemorate Americas English roots through the 400th anniversary of the founding of Jamestown, Virginia, as well as its Hispanic roots through the 450thanniversary of the founding of St. Augustine, Florida.\nThis commission will be tasked with telling 400 years of the African American story. It is a story of achievement and beauty, poets and presidents, pain and degradation, triumph over adversity, and sometimes adversity following triumph. This story must be told in full to enrich our understanding of who we are as a country. I look forward to working with everyone involved commemorate the uniqueness and resilience of African American culture from 1619 to 2019 and beyond, Kaine said.\nThe commission members will have a huge responsibility in faithfully documenting the African American experience  the journey, the arrival, and the individual strength and resilience as African Americans shaped our nations heritage, Warner said. This work can serve as a testimonial to the lessons in racial diversity and inclusion we have learned as a country, and help to shine a bright light on lessons we still need to learn.\nThe history of Virginia and our nation cannot be fully understood or appreciated without learning about the first Africans who arrived at Point Comfort, Virginia in 1619. The commission established by the 400 Years of African-American History Commission Act will be charged with the important task of planning, developing and implementing a series of programs and activities throughout 2019 that fully tells the story of African Americans, their contributions to the fabric of our nation, and their resilience over the last 400 years. I applaud Senator Kaine for his vision, leadership and hard work on this legislation, and I look forward to President Trump signing this bill, Scott said.\nWe would not be the nation we are today without the innumerable contributions African Americans have made over the past 400 years. America is a stronger, better nation when all of our citizens learn, understand, and appreciate our history. The creation of the 400 Years of African American History Commission provides us the opportunity to honor African American culture and educate current and future generations about the impact it has had on our nation, Blunt said.\nBlack history is American history, and this commission will honor, reveal and pay respect to the rich experiences, lives, accomplishments and discoveries as well as the atrocities, the struggle and the terror that have shaped the past 400 years of our history as Americans, said Booker. The story of Black history in America is a story of profound struggle matched with profound purpose and of extraordinary hardship matched with extraordinary courage. As we learn more about this story, we will learn more about the ongoing struggle to fulfill the promise of justice and equality for all Americans.\nThe bill is supported by the National NAACP, National Urban League and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/members-oregon-delegation-congratulate-oregon-state-university-673000-federal", "Members of Oregon Delegation Congratulate Oregon State University on $673,000 Federal Grant to Study Ocean Health", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Suzanne Bonamici", "B001278", "bonamici.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Ron Wyden and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Peter DeFazio, Earl Blumenauer, and Kurt Schrader congratulated Oregon State University on securing a $673,000 federal grant through NOAA Fisheries to study the effects of ocean acidification on the shellfish industry. OSU is one of three universities to receive two-year grants through a competitive, merit-based process under the new Ocean Acidification Regional Vulnerability Assessment Competition. OSU has been at the forefront of ocean acidification research nationally. Coastal communities and the fishing industry are uniquely vulnerable to ocean acidification, especially the 3,200 people employed in the West Coast shellfish industry.\nOregons economy depends on the health of our oceans and coastal communities,said Congresswoman Bonamici.Ocean acidification threatens our valuable fisheries and thousands of jobs. Thankfully scientists at Oregon State University are leading the way in understanding this challenge and how we can best address it. I am grateful to OSU for investing in research that will directly benefit coastal communities and help us better understand and respond to ocean acidification.\nOcean acidification is one of the earliest signs of climate change, and the Pacific Northwest is already feeling its effects on our dwindling shellfish stocks, said Senator Wyden. Our region is a canary in the coal mine for these very real environmental challenges, but thankfully, Oregon State University is leading impressive research to better understand and mitigate the impacts of ocean acidification on ecosystems as well as Oregons coastal economy.\nOregons economic health is tied to our oceans healthin order to preserve our regions shellfish, recreation and tourism industries, we musttake steps to protect against ocean acidification and other effects of climate change, said Representative DeFazio. These funds will help our top scientists at OSU continue to lead in the research and response to this challenge.\nThe Pacific Northwest has much to lose when it comes to ocean acidification, said Representative Blumenauer. With OSUs leadership and strong federal support, we will better learn to address this pressing challenge.\nOregon State University scientists are on the forefront of finding solutions to our most complex marine challenges, said Cynthia Sagers, Vice President of Research for Oregon State University. Through this grant support from NOAAs Ocean Acidification Program, OSU scientists will take an interdisciplinary approach to advance further understanding of the complex social, economic, and environmental issues associated with ocean acidification and the shellfish industry to help inform practical and impactful methods of adaptation.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-statement-short-term-government-spending-bill", "Cicilline Statement on Short-Term Government Spending Bill", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "RI", "David Cicilline", "C001084", "cicilline.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (RI-01) issued the following statement today:\nRepublicans spent yesterday celebrating a tax bill that robs money from the middle class and gives it to corporations and the wealthiest Americans. Today, they failed to address any of the urgent needs facing working people.\nThis funding bill passed by the Republicans today fails to include a long-term, bipartisan extension of childrens health insurance and makes harmful cuts to critical preventative health care for kids. It fails to ensure that veterans can get the care they need through the VA. It abandons millions of American families who are struggling as a result of the ongoing opiate epidemic.\nIf youre wealthy and well-off, Republicans have your back. If youre a working person, youre on your own. Thats the message Republicans are sending with their tax bill and this budget resolution.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-commends-mid-atlantic-council-stopping-squid-fishing-restrictions-seeks", "RI Delegation Commends Mid Atlantic Council for Stopping Squid Fishing Restrictions & Seeks to Give RI a Greater Voice on Fishery Management", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "RI", "David Cicilline", "C001084", "cicilline.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12/22/2017\nNARRAGANSETT, RI After the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) recently voted 16-4 against a proposed squid buffer zone framework off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts that would have negatively impacted Rhode Island fishermen,U.S. Senators Jack ReedandSheldon WhitehouseandCongressmen Jim LangevinandDavid Cicillinecommended the council. And this week Reed introduced legislation in the U.S. Senate and Langevin introduced identical legislation in U.S. House of Representatives to give Rhode Island a seat at the council table going forward so that the state and local fishermen have a direct say over matters that impact them. The Rhode Island Fishermens Fairness Act, which is cosponsored by Whitehouse and Cicilline, would add Rhode Island to the list of seven states with voting representation on the MAFMC, a regional management board that establishes fishery management rules for stocks primarily caught in federal waters adjacent to the mid-Atlantic coast.\nThe MAFMC denied the squid buffer zone proposals of 6 or 12 miles off the south of Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard -- which were backed by Nantucket charter boat captains, who claim the squid fishery is making it harder for their clients to land striped bass -- but would have had a severely negative economic impact on many commercial Rhode Island fishing boats.\nIn consultation with Rhode Island fishermen and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), all four members of the delegation urged the MAFMC to reject the proposed creation of a squid buffer zone in federal waters in the vicinity of Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket.\nThe Congressional delegation wrote that the buffer zone proposal was not rooted in science, but wouldhave a significant effect on the harvest of one of the most important stocks for the Rhode Island fishing industry. We would also highlight the fact that the Council just a few months ago adopted measures to mitigate effort in federal waters during trimester 2 of the longfin squid season. It makes no sense, even before those measures have been implemented, to adopt a buffer zone that would further restrict fishing and harm Rhode Island's fishing economy.\nWhile the delegation believes the Council reached the correct decision in this instance, they say that Rhode Island deserves representation on the Council, to ensure the state may participate fully in development of fishery management plans for mid-Atlantic stocks, many of which are crucial to Rhode Islands seafood economy.\nRhode Island fishermen care deeply about the health, sustainability, and management of our fisheries. This is an issue of fairness and our fishermen deserve appropriate representation on the Council. Mid-Atlantic regulated stocks now represent the majority of landings for Rhode Island commercial fishermen. It is time that our state has formal representation on the Council, saidSenator Reed, the author of the Senate bill who has been leading efforts on this issue since 2006. Rhode Island fishermen are increasingly dependent and invested in the Mid-Atlantic Fishery, hauling in more squid than any other state currently on the Council, but they dont have the same voice on management as other states do.\nThe catch of Rhode Island commercial fishermen represent a significant percentage of commercial landings of the Mid-Atlantic fishery, and is greater than most of the states represented on the Council.\nRhode Islands fishermen deserve fair representation on the Council, which makes important decisions that affect their livelihoods,said Congressman Langevin, the lead author of the House bill. When catch areas significantly overlap or realign, the law needs to keep pace and ensure that those landing the fish have a seat at the table. Rhode Island calamari and other delicacies are known around the world, and they are the pride of our state. As we seek stability in the long-term management of these fisheries, the Council needs direct representation from those Rhode Islanders who know these species well, and the Fishermans Fairness Act provides that accountability.\n\"Our commercial fishing industry, including our famous Ocean State calamari, is a major employer in Rhode Island and a significant driver of the local economy, saidSenator Whitehouse. As climate change drives species of fish traditionally from the Mid-Atlantic north towards Narragansett Bay, it's only fair that the hardworking fishermen in Rhode Island have a say in the decision\nIm thrilled! This is a major victory for Rhode Island fishermen, saidCongressman Cicilline. Our commercial fishing and seafood industries generate millions of dollars in economic activity and support good-paying jobs across our state. Im pleased that the Mid-Atlantic Council made the right decision.s affecting their livelihoods.\nThe Fishermen Fairness Act would add two places for Rhode Island representation to the 21 member Council. One seat would be appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce under recommendations from Rhode Islands Governor. The second seat would be filled by Rhode Islands principal state official with marine fishery management responsibility. To accommodate these new members, the MAFMC would increase in size from 21 voting members to 23.\nThe Town Dock supports the Rhode Island Fishermens Fairness Act. Rhode Island lands more squid than any other state on the east coast and we support having seat at the table to manage a resource that we so greatly depend on, saidKatie Almeida, Fishery Policy Analyst at The Town Dock.\nWe fully support this bill. Rhode Island lands more squid than all other East Coast states combined, as well as the majority of butterfish harvested on the East Coast. However, since these species are managed by the Mid Atlantic Council, we have no official final Council vote on management measures. We believe its time for that to change, saidMeghan Lapp, fisheries liaison for Seafreeze Ltd.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://collinpeterson.house.gov/rep-petersons-newsletter-12222017", "Rep. Peterson's Newsletter 12/22/2017", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "MN", "Collin Peterson", "P000258", "collinpeterson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sand Lake\nDear Friends,\nThe House and Senate passed a major tax bill this week, adding at least $1.5 trillion to the deficit.As a founding member of the Congressional Blue Dog Coalition, I have pushed for fiscally responsible policies throughout my entire career and have concerns about the impact this debt will have on future generations. The bill was a missed opportunity for a bipartisan effort to focus on promoting real economic growth and policies that help middle class families. This Christmas, I hope we are all able to take the spirit of the holiday season into a more cooperative and productive New Year.\nSincerely,\nCongressman Collin C. Peterson  Minnesota 7th District\n Happy Holidays \nPlease click the above imageto see my holiday greeting. I wish all of you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!\n Pheasant Hunting \nOn Saturday, I was happy to get out for a pheasant hunt before heading back to Washington. I joined my friend Chuck Ellingson at Watson Hunting Camp in Chippewa County where we spent a few hours on 165 acres of western Minnesota prairie. I hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy the outdoors before the season ends.\n Tax Reform discussion on KFGO \nI was a guest on KFGO News and Views with Joel Heitkamp on Tuesday morning to talk about the GOP tax reform and its impact on Minnesota and the U.S. I expressed my concerns with the tax bill and the strict partisan process it went through. While many people will see modest temporary tax cuts, others will see increases if they pay high state and local taxes or have families with many children. This was a missed opportunity to work on a bipartisan basis to promote economic growth and simplify the tax code. I was not able to support a bill that makes the tax system more complicated for the middle class and small businesses while adding up to $2 trillion to the nations debt.\nListen to our discussion here.\n University of Minnesota Crookston Horticulture Club \nThe University of Minnesota, Crookstons Horticultural students had to get an early October start on poinsettia cuttings in order to be ready for their annual holiday sale. The students limit the amount of light the plants receive each day so their leaves will change color. I am glad to see all their hard work culminate in a successful poinsettia flower sale.\n Red River Water Management Board Meeting \nRob Sip, the new Executive Director of the Red River Water Management Board, presided over his first monthly meeting this week. The meeting covered issues from budget and general operating issues to reports from various groups. I am committed to securing resources that protect our communities from flood damage and commend the Board on the work they do to address this important issue.\n Legislative Update \nThis week, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Trump. These tax reform measures will affect every American household. Many of my colleagues and I have expressed serious reservations with the legislation. This bill was passed in a highly partisan process and contains provisions which I fear will end up harming many in the middle class while exploding our nations debt. While I support making our corporate tax rate more competitive internationally, this bill failed to adequately target real economic growth and needed support for the middle class.\n Spotted in the Seventh \nCongratulationsto Brian Field of Barnesville, who was the first to correctly identify last weeks location as the Fireplace of States, inside the Tourist Information Center  \n\tin Bemidji!\n Visitors from the Seventh \n  Jo Ann DeBruycker (WILLMAR)\n  Redwood Falls", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1219", "Connolly-Raskin-Cummings Lead 95 Members of Congress in Urging House Leadership Not To Use Federal Employees for Government Funding Offset", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Gerald Connolly", "C001078", "connolly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Representatives Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Ranking Member Elijah Cummings (D-MD) led 95 members of Congress in urging Speaker Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to oppose any further cuts to federal employee pay and benefits to offset increased discretionary spending. \r\nEnough is enough. The federal workforce should be thanked for their honorable service, not treated like a piggy bank, said Connolly, Raskin and Cummings. \r\nSince 2011, federal employees have had their pay frozen three times (2011, 2012, 2013), three years of reduced pay increases (2014, 2015, 2016), unpaid furlough days from the 2013 sequestration, and two increases in retirement contributions for new employees (2013, 2014), the members of Congress wrote.\r\nWhile we agree that a long-term bipartisan budget agreement to lift the devastating sequestration caps is necessary, to finance such an agreement on the backs of middle class federal employees who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation would be wrong under any circumstances, they added. We respectfully request you explore other avenues to offset the cost of lifting the caps.\r\nThe letter was signed by Representatives Hoyer, Connolly, Raskin, Barragan, Beyer, Bishop (GA), Blumenauer, Bonamici, Boyle, Brown, Carbajal, Carson, Cicilline, Clay, Cleaver, Costa, Courtney, Crist, Cummings, Davis (CA), Davis (IL), DeFazio, DeGette, Delaney, DeSaulnier, Deutch, Dingell, Doyle, Engel, Espaillat, Evans, Foster, Fudge, Gabbard, Gallego, Hanabusa, Higgins, Jackson Lee, Jayapal, Keating, Khanna, Kilmer, Kildee, Lawrence, Lee (CA), Levin, Lewis, Lipinski, Lofgren, Lowenthal, Lynch, Maloney, Matsui, McCollum, McEachin, McGovern, McNerney, Meng, Murphy (FL), Nadler, Napolitano, Nolan, Norcross, Norton, O'Halleran, Pallone, Perlmutter, Peters, Plaskett, Pocan, Price, Roybal-Allard, Ruppersberger, Rush, Ryan (OH), Sablan, Sanchez, Sarbanes, Schakowsky, Schrader, Scott (GA), Scott (VA), Serrano, Shea-Porter, Sires, Smith, Takano, Titus, Vargas, Visclosky, Watson Coleman, Welch, Wilson, Yarmuth.\r\nThe full letter follows and is available here.  \r\n\r\n\r\nDecember 22, 2017\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Paul Ryan\r\nSpeaker\r\nU.S. House of Representatives\r\nWashington, DC 20515\r\nThe Honorable Nancy Pelosi\r\nMinority Leader\r\nU.S. House of Representatives\r\nWashington, DC 20515\r\n\r\nDear Speaker Ryan and Leader Pelosi,\r\nWe are writing to strongly urge you to oppose any further cuts to federal employee pay and benefits to offset increased discretionary spending caused by the lifting of the FY 2018 and FY 2019 sequester spending caps on defense and domestic appropriations. As you are aware, federal employees and retirees have had their pay and benefits cut by $182 billion since 2011. Time and time again, they have been asked to sacrifice in the name of deficit reduction. Enough is enough.\r\nSince 2011, federal employees have had their pay frozen three times (2011, 2012, 2013), three years of reduced pay increases (2014, 2015, 2016), unpaid furlough days from the 2013 sequestration, and two increases in retirement contributions for new employees (2013, 2014). \r\nWhile we agree that a long-term bipartisan budget agreement to lift the devastating sequestration caps is necessary, to finance such an agreement on the backs of middle class federal employees who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation would be wrong under any circumstances. But to do so, immediately after passing an unpaid-for tax cut that will explode the federal deficit and disproportionately benefit the wealthiest Americans would be a slap in the face to the hardworking Americans who care for our veterans, process our Social Security checks, and protect our national parks. \r\nTherefore, as you work toward an agreement to lift the sequestration caps for FY 2018 and FY 2019, we respectfully request you explore other avenues to offset the cost of lifting the caps. Federal employees and retirees have already done their part. It is time to find other ways to reduce the deficit.\r\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costa-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-honor-hmong-veterans", "Costa Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to  Honor Hmong Veterans", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jim Costa", "C001059", "costa.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC  Yesterday Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA-16) was joined by Vietnam veteran Congressman Paul Cook (R-CA-8) in introducing H. R. 4716, the Hmong Veterans Service Recognition Act. The bipartisan legislation would extend to Hmong and Lao Americans who served alongside U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War burial benefits in national cemeteries. Congressmen Raul Ruiz (D-CA-36) and Don Young (R-AK-At Large) are cosponsoring the legislation, and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) has introduced a similar bill in the Senate, which currently has seven cosponsors coming from both sides of the aisle.\nThe United States has not done enough to honor the courageous Hmong men and women who fought on behalf of the United States during the Vietnam War, said Rep. Jim Costa, who has been working for years to extend burial benefits to Hmong veterans. These brave individuals conducted direct missions and entered combat shoulder-to-shoulder with U.S. soldiers. Hmong forces saved countless American lives, and more than 100,000 Hmong made the ultimate sacrifice over the course of the war. These heroes deserve our nations deep gratitude, and granting Hmong veterans the honor of being laid to rest in our national cemeteries, such as Santa Nellas San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, is long overdue.\nFollowing the Vietnam War, thousands of Hmong veterans resettled across the United States and in Californias San Joaquin Valley. Currently there is only an estimated 5,000 Hmong veterans still alive, with thousands living in the San Joaquin Valley. In addition to having bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress, the Hmong Veterans Service Recognition Act is supported by the national and San Joaquin Valley chapters of the Special Guerrilla Units Veterans & Families Development organization and the Lao Veterans of America. The legislation would not change eligibility for burial at Arlington National Cemetery.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crowley.house.gov/press-release/chairman-crowley-statement-decision-sanction-military-official-burma", "Chairman Crowley Statement on Decision to Sanction Military Official in Burma", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Joseph Crowley", "C001038", "crowley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-NY) issued the following statement on the decision to sanction a military official in Burma:\nI welcome the decision to add Maung Maung Soe to the Global Magnitsky list. He should clearly be sanctioned for his role in committing atrocities against the Rohingya. However, with 6,000 dead and thousands more raped, beaten, and displaced, it is clear Maung Maung Soe has not acted alone. The other military officials involved in the ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya must be sanctioned for their roles in this genocide. The United States has a moral obligation to act.\nAdditionally, I am deeply concerned about the arrest of two Reuters journalists, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, who were detained while attempting to report on abuses in Rakhine State. They should be released without delay.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://crowley.house.gov/press-release/chairman-crowley-statement-trump-administration-plan-separate-families-crossing-border", "Chairman Crowley Statement on Trump Administration Plan to Separate Families Crossing the Border", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Joseph Crowley", "C001038", "crowley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)  House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-NY) issued the following statement on reports that President Trumps administration will separate families in an effort to curb illegal immigration into the United States:\nPresident Trump and his anti-immigrant administration have reached a new low. Stripping babies from their mothers arms is inhumane. Separating scared children from their fathers is cruel. If President Trump was serious about reducing the number of individuals who enter the United States illegally, hed work with Congress to fix our broken immigration system and address the root causes of the violence that drives people to leave their homes. The decision to separate families at the border is nothing more than a telling sign that this administration doesnt value the humanity of those risking everything to find a better, safer life in America.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://defazio.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/western-oregon-tribal-restoration-bill-passes-senate-goes-to-president-s", "Western Oregon Tribal Restoration Bill Passes Senate, Goes to Presidents Desk to Become Law", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Peter DeFazio", "D000191", "defazio.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation authored by Representatives Peter DeFazio (OR-04) and Greg Walden (OR-02) and U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., to address western Oregon tribal priorities passed the Senate unanimously last night. The bill now goes to the president to be signed into law.\nThe Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act would place 17,519 acres of federal land currently managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) into trust for the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, and 14,742 acres of federal land into trust for the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians. It would also amend the Coquille Restoration Act to require the Interior Department to manage the Coquille Indian Tribes forest lands in the same way as other tribal forest lands.\nWhile there is still much work to be done to correct our nations injustices towards Native Americans, the passage of the Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act is an encouraging move towards progress,DeFazio said. This legislation will finally grant the Coos, Cow Creek and Coquille Tribes the long-deserved opportunity to manage their own economic development and exercise their own authority over tribal lands.\nThe passage of this bill is an important step for these three tribes. The Cow Creek and Coos tribes see a restoration of lands and the Coquille will finally be able to manage their forest lands the same way as other tribes,Walden said.This bill ensures these tribes can sustainably manage these lands to benefit the environment and local economy, creating jobs in their communities. I am proud to have worked alongside my colleagues to pass this long-overdue bill out of Congress, and look forward to the President signing it into law.\nWhile more can and must be done to rectify the injustices that tribes have long faced, passing this bill into law marks an important step forward in recognizing the sovereignty of western Oregon tribes,Wyden said.By returning land to both the Coos and Cow Creek tribes, and by putting the management of Coquilles lands on equal footing with other tribal lands, this bill honors and respects each tribes right to be economically self-sufficient and provide jobs and resources for their communities.\nWith the Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act, we will enable tribes to enhance their self-determination and ability to restore ancestral lands, while creating greater economic opportunity,Merkley said.Its long-overdue, and I am thrilled this bill is heading to the Presidents desk to be signed into law.\nThe Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act passed the House of Representatives in July. The bill passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee unanimously in March.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-led-energy-bill-passes-senate-about-to-become-law", "DeGette LED Energy Bill Passes Senate, About to Become Law", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), author of a bill promoting energy conservation and encouraging innovations in LED lighting that passes the House in January, hailed last nights Senate passage of the bill and anticipated that it would be signed into law soon.\nThe holiday season will be all the brighter thanks to our bipartisan efforts to speed the nations progress in the use of energy-efficient lighting, DeGette said. Our countrys conservation standards must remain up to date with the latest developments in high-tech lighting and energy-efficient appliances. This bill will remove roadblocks to progress in LED development and help lower energy costs for American businesses and households.\nDeGettes legislation, the EPS Improvement Act (H.R. 518), clarifies and modernizes energy conservation rules that were established after the Energy Policy Act of 2005. When the law was written, Light Emitting Diodes (LED) and Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED) were not on the market; they later came to be classified by the Department of Energy as External Power Supplies. But EPS drivers use a different kind of power conversion design than LEDs and OLEDs, so the standards writtenfor EPS drivers do not work for LEDs and OLEDs. Legislation that DeGette championed in 2016 to address this difference passed the House in the 114th Congress but didnt see action in the Senate.\nDeGette introduced H.R. 518 at the first opportunity this year, and it quickly gained support and passed the House.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pro-choice-leaders-call-on-judiciary-committee-to-subpoena-witnesses-in", "Pro-Choice Leaders Call on Judiciary Committee to Subpoena Witnesses in Case of Abortion-Seeking Teen", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Diana DeGette", "D000197", "degette.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC The co-chairs of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Louise Slaughter (D-NY), today called on the leadership of the House Judiciary Committee to subpoena Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officials involved in a decision to deny a 17-year-old rape victim her right to have an abortion.\nThe undocumented teen, known as Jane Poe in court filings, was in federal custody and stated that she was a victim of sexual assault in her home country, which has not been identified publicly. The HHS Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), which is responsible for the care of undocumented teens in federal facilities, rejected her request to be able to obtain an abortion. The American Civil Liberties Union intervened with acourt filinglast week on her behalf; thanks to a D.C. District Court judges ruling, she was allowed to have an abortion on December 20. Due to disturbing questions raised by information in court filings, ORR Director Scott Lloyd is among the people DeGette and Slaughter are asking the Judiciary Committee to subpoena for questioning.\nAccording to these court filings, the Trump Administration attempted to force a rape victim to carry a pregnancy to term against her will, DeGette and Slaughter wrote ina letterto the Committee. This is an egregious, unconscionable violation of Jane Poes right to make this decision. We fear that other women currently in detention may be facing similar injustices at the hands of Trump Administration officials. In order to prevent more women from being denied their rights, ORRs policies and decision to deny Jane Poe an abortion need urgent and close examination and oversight by Congress. We strongly urge the Judiciary Committee to question Mr. Lloyd immediately when Congress returns in January.\nThe two legislators note in their letter that Lloyd said he decided to deny the abortion because he was convinced that an abortion in this case [was] not in her best interest. \nThe Constitution guarantees women the right to access abortion and prohibits the government from putting an undue burden on that right, they wrote. We are strongly opposed to ORRs unconstitutional policy of denying abortion to undocumented minors. Indeed, ORRs decisions denying abortion have now been overturned in federal court multiple times. Aside from being unconstitutional, the ongoing efforts by ORR staff to intimidate and scare young women out of exercising their rights are also offensive and highly inappropriate for any government official, let alone senior officials in the Trump Administration.\n\nThe full text of the letter follows:\n\n\nDecember 22, 2017\n\nChairman Bob Goodlatte Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler\nHouse Judiciary Committee House Judiciary Committee\n2309 Rayburn House Office Building 2109 Rayburn House Office Building\nWashington, DC 20515                                   Washington, DC 20515\n\nDear Chairman Goodlatte and Ranking Member Nadler,\n\nWe write today with grave concerns about court filings that revealed Trump Administration officials denied a seventeen-year-old immigrant woman (Jane Poe), who is a victim of rape, her right to have an abortion. We request that the Judiciary Committee subpoena officials within the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), including Director Scott Lloyd, for immediate questioning about this deeply troubling incident.\n\nThe relevant court filings (Case 1:17-cv-02122-TSC, Document 87) include a memo written by ORR Director Scott Lloyd outlining the Administrations decision to deny Jane Poe an abortion. Lloyds memo reveals that he was aware that Jane Poe informed ORR officials that she was sexually assaulted in her home country, and that the assault likely resulted in her pregnancy. Lloyd also acknowledges that at least one senior program staff at ORR recommended that Poe be allowed to have an abortion. Nevertheless, Lloyd decided to deny the abortion because he was convinced that an abortion in this case [was] not in her best interest. He overtly assumes that he, rather than Jane Poe, was in the best position to decide her future.\n\nThe Constitution guarantees women the right to access abortion and prohibits the government from putting an undue burden on that right. We are strongly opposed to ORRs unconstitutional policy of denying abortion to undocumented minors. Indeed, ORRs decisions denying abortion have now been overturned in federal court multiple times. Aside from being unconstitutional, the ongoing efforts by ORR staff to intimidate and scare young women out of exercising their rights are also offensive and highly inappropriate for any government official, let alone senior officials in the Trump Administration.\n\nThe new details about the circumstances surrounding Jane Poe, however, raise even more questions about the ORR policy that demand immediate answers from Mr. Lloyd. According to these court filings, the Trump Administration attempted to force a rape victim to carry a pregnancy to term against her will. This is an egregious, unconscionable violation of Jane Poes right to make this decision. We fear that other women currently in detention may be facing similar injustices at the hands of Trump Administration officials.\n\nIn order to prevent more women from being denied their rights, ORRs policies and decision to deny Jane Poe an abortion need urgent and close examination and oversight by Congress. We strongly urge the Judiciary Committee to question Mr. Lloyd immediately when Congress returns in January.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-eddie-bernice-johnson-releases-statement-after-cms", "Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Releases Statement after CMS Approves Extension of 1115 Waiver", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "DALLAS, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released a statement after Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved Texas Medicaid 1115 Transformation Waiver:\nOn December 21, 2017, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved Texas Medicaid 1115 Transformation Waiver (1115 Waiver). The 1115 Waiver will be effective January 1, 2018 through September 30, 2022, and will allow Texas hospitals to provide the best care to publicly insured and low-income patients.\nIm pleased that the state of Texas reached an agreement on the 1115 Waiver with joint efforts of the entire Texas Congressional Delegation, Governor Greg Abbott, THHSC Executive Commissioner Charles Smith, Texas Hospital Association, and Administrator Seema Verma, said Congresswoman Johnson.\nThe 1115 Waiver has played a critical role in Texas health care system. Failure to approve the 1115 Waiver would have resulted in near catastrophic consequences for the states most vulnerable populations, said Ted Shaw, President/CEO of the Texas Hospital Association. The waiver has been absolutely critical for increasing access to quality health care. And it has done so with an efficiency that has saved Texas and the federal government more than $8 billion.\nThis past June, Congresswoman Johnson along with the Texas Congressional Delegation sent the following letter to CMS:\nLetter from the Texas Congressional Delegation\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://engel.house.gov/latest-news/engel-announces-1346087-in-federal-grant-money-to-greyston-health-services-in-yonkers/", "Engel Announces $1,346,087 in Federal Grant Money to Greyston Health Services in Yonkers", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Eliot Engel", "E000179", "engel.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 40764, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", 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