{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"KS\" and year = 2019 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/greenwood-county-listening-tour-eureka", "Greenwood County Listening Tour, Eureka", "2019-12-30", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tour Stops \n\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\t\n\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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\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\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas Listening Tour\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTour Stops\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\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tGREENWOOD COUNTYMonday, December 30VFW Post #2712Eureka", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/phone-call-with-president-trump", "Happy New Year!", "2019-12-30", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Welcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.\r\nPhone Call with President Trump\r\nOn Sunday, I spoke with President Trump regarding the recent news that Boeing will suspend production of the 737 Max jetliner and what that means for our state. The President assured me he will work with his team at the White House to see if there are ways that he and the administration can be of help.\r\nI will continue to stay engaged with President Trump, Spirit Aerosystems, Boeing and the FAA until this issue is resolved. I understand what the production of the 737 Max means to Spirit and the Wichita community, and I also recognize the problem extends to smaller suppliers and subcontractors in the area.\r\nThis is a serious issue, and I want the jetliner back into production as soon as it has been determined safe to fly. In addition, I will continue to work with the Department of Defense to get more military work for Wichita manufacturers. Read more about my call here in the Wichita Eagle.\r\nTouring the North American Pipe Corporation\r\nOn Monday afternoon, I stopped in McPherson for an informative tour of North American Pipe Corporation (NAPCO) which is owned by Westlake Chemical of Houston, Texas. With 130 local employees, NAPCO is an important driver of the McPherson area economy. NAPCO is a leading polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe manufacturer in North America servicing multiple unique markets, including municipal water and sewer, residential plumbing, water well, agricultural irrigation, turf, electrical and mining.\r\nI enjoyed meeting with employees who manufacture products that make a meaningful contribution to the economic growth of our state and nation. During my visit, we discussed several issues that Congress can address to help American businesses remain globally competitive includingtrade, workforce development and infrastructure needs.Thank you to plant manager Tim Covert for arranging my visit. Special thanks to McPherson Mayor Tom Brown, McPherson County Commission Chair Keith Becker, McPherson Chamber of Commerce Chair Alex Graber, McPherson Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Debbie Hawkinson, McPherson Industrial Development Corporation Chair Keith Birkhead, McPherson Industrial Development Corporation Executive Director Kasi Morales and McPherson Board of Public Utilities Assistant General Manager Josh Bedel for joining me.\r\n\r\nPresenting the Ellis County BUILD Grant\r\nOn Friday, I joined Ellis County and state officials, including Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary David Toland, Sen. Rick Billinger, Rep. Troy Waymaster, Rep. Barb Wasinger, and Rep. Kent Thompson to formally present the $6.5 million U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) BUILD Grant for the Northwest Business Corridor. These federal dollars will be used to improve existing infrastructure, currently not designed for the volume or type of traffic it is being used for, allow for increased economic development in the region, helping existing businesses expand.\r\nThis project will benefit the region for future generations and I commend the Hays community for working together on this vision. Special thanks to Ellis County Commissioners Butch Schlyer, Dustin Roths and Dean Haselhorst, Public Works Director Bill Ring and Hays businessman Dan Hess for their efforts on this initiative. I look forward to continuing to work with Ellis County and the DOT on the Northwest Business Corridor. Read more about the project here in the Hays Daily News.\r\n\r\nMeeting with Jason Williby of Fort Hays State University\r\nTraveling to Kansas Communities for Listening Tour Stops\r\nVisiting Barber County\r\nI started this week with a Kansas Listening Tour stop in Medicine Lodge on Monday. Thank you to the Barber County residents who took the time to share with me their thoughts on issues like the economy and impeachment. A large portion of the conversation also revolved around the viability of rural communities. The conversation turned to recent victories in Congress, like the passage of the VA MISSION Act, which will strengthen community hospitals while providing local veterans more options for care, and the need to pass USMCA now in the Senate, which will help provide market stability to our producers. Attendees at the town hall made clear to me that more work must be done by Washington to ensure that good things continue to happen in the places that we call home.\r\n\r\nAmong the attendees, I appreciated seeing Rusty Varnado, City Administrator for Kiowa, and Jeff Porter, City Administrator for Medicine Lodge. Additionally, I was pleased to see my nominee to the Senate Page Program, Seth, who is from Medicine Lodge. Seth will spend next semester working on the floor of the United States Senate as he takes part in an opportunity available to select high school students across the nation. My gratitude goes out to American Legion Post #69 for opening its doors to the public while hosting the town hall.\r\n\r\nVisiting Ottawa County\r\nOn Thursday, I stopped in Minneapolis for Kansas Listening Tour Stop, visiting a number of small businesses, along with city and county establishments like the Police Department and County Courthouse. I was able to discuss a wide-range of topics, including the importance of preserving the rural lifestyle, impeachment and the need to get USMCA across the finish line. Thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to speak with me while I was in town.\r\nVisiting Hodgeman County\r\nOn Friday, I hosted a Hodgeman County Kansas Listening Tour Stop at Hanston State Bank. I have represented this area for over 30 years and I understand the importance of carrying on the rural way of life for future generations of Kansans. During my visit, we discussed ways to support rural America, including the need to pass USMCA and provide certainty for our farmers and ranchers. We also discussed veterans' care and the MISSION Act, and the divineness we are seeing in our country and how it related to impeachment. Thank you to all the folks that attended and engaged with me, as well as Hanston State Bank for providing coffee and cookies.\r\n\r\n\r\nStopping by the Isabel Community Store\r\nKeeping a grocery going is a challenge in small town Kansas, but in Isabel the store is owned by the community. On Monday, I stopped by on the way to my townhall and was able to talk with folks drinking their coffee and then stopped by again as folks were eating lunch together. One of the most precious aspects of rural life is the community. Thank you for the conversations and letting me be a part of yours this week.\r\nSpecial thanks to store manager Kathy Balding and her brother Richard Becker for the warm welcome.\r\n\r\nVisiting with Folks from Preston and Burdett\r\nWhile driving around our state this week, I also took time to stop by Preston in Pratt County and Burdett in Pawnee County. I find value in stopping by communities to talk with folks as they go about their day in places such as the town Post Office and other local businesses. Thank you to the folks from both towns who took time out of their busy days to talk with me about their views and life in Kansas.\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/hodgeman-county-listening-tour-hanston", "Hodgeman County Listening Tour, Hanston", "2019-12-27", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tour Stops \n\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\t\n\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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\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\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas Listening Tour\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTour Stops\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\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tHODGEMAN COUNTYFriday, December 27Hanston State BankHanston", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/ottawa-county-listening-tour-minneapolis", "Ottawa County Listening Tour, Minneapolis", "2019-12-26", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tour Stops \n\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\t\n\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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\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\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas Listening Tour\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTour Stops\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\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tOTTAWA COUNTYThursday, December 26Main StreetMinneapolis", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/rep-roger-marshall-president-trumps-trade-deals-will-ensure-long-term-success", "Rep. Roger Marshall: President Trump's trade deals will ensure long-term success for America's farmers", "2019-12-23", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By the time China is done, he will have renegotiated over 50 percent of the United States' trade agreements, giving us long-term certainty for all of our future generations of farmers.\n\t\tWhen asked if the relief is coming soon enough, Marshall answered, Yes.\n\t\tWe have mountains of grain from two years ago sitting in Kansas with nowhere to go, Marshall said. But between the Japanese trade agreement, the president's [United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement] USMCA trade agreement and now China getting closer, we've made it.\n\t\tThe USMCApassed the House of Representatives on Thursday after both the Trump administration and House Democrats took credit for the$1.2trillion deal they say will be better for Americans compared to the North American Free Trade Agreement that President Trump has referred to in the past as \"NAFTA the disaster.\"\n\t\tThe billnow heads to the Senate, where Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said he will take it up after an impeachment trial for President Trump.\n\t\tWe've made it through the hard past five years, actually, and between the president's help with some of the trade mitigation money and these contracts, these trade agreements going forward, yes, we are going to make it, Marshall said on America's Newsroom on Monday.\n\t\tHe acknowledged that the details of the Phase One deal with China are vague but said, It'll start influencing the price of crops and gives us long-term certainty.\n\t\tHe added that the president gave us some trade mitigation money, some market facilitation payments to help get us through these hard times because we were the tip of the spear.\n\t\tEvery time I go back to Kansas, people tell me, thank the president for this mitigation money,' Marshall said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/barber-county-listening-tour-medicine-lodge", "Barber County Listening Tour, Medicine Lodge", "2019-12-23", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tour Stops \n\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\t\n\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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\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\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas Listening Tour\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTour Stops\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\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tBARBER COUNTYMonday, December 23American Legion PostMedicine Lodge", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/safeguarding-our-freedoms", "Safeguarding our Freedoms", "2019-12-23", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Wishing You Happy Holidays\r\nHappyholidays to you and yours! Robba and I hope that you are able to spend quality time with loved ones during this joyous season. May God bless you and your families in the New Year!\r\nAs we gather with loved ones to celebrate this season, we are also thinking of the many men and women in uniform at home and abroad who are unable to be with friends and family as they fight to protect our homeland. Missing the holidays represents one of the many sacrifices our servicemembers and their families make, and I am grateful for their dedicated service to their fellow Americans.\r\nSafeguarding our Freedoms\r\nOn Tuesday, the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA), which is critical to safeguarding our freedoms and supporting our servicemembers and their families. This legislation further modernizes our military and includes the largest pay raise for our troops in nearly a decade. I applaud my colleagues for working to create a bipartisan bill that we can send to the President's desk.\r\nI was particularly pleased to see several of my priorities included in the final legislation. This includes the Cyber Red Team Assessment to increase security against new and emerging cyber threats, which will help support missions related to the 177th Information Aggressor Squadron of the Kansas Air National Guard Unit stationed at McConnell Air Force Base. In addition, the NDAA includes my bill, the Global Leadership in Advanced Manufacturing Act, to strengthen Kansas manufacturers, specifically within aerospace, defense, technology and agriculture. I'm also pleased that this bill will secure a Military-Type Certification for the Textron AT-6 Light Attack Aircraft, which will have a significant impact on the Kansas aerospace community. To read more about my priorities included in this legislation, please click here.\r\n\r\nFunding our Government\r\nPassing the CJS Appropriations Package\r\nOn Thursday, the Senate passed my FY2020 Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations bill. As Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee who authored this legislation, this fiscally responsible bill includes essential resources to further our nation's priorities in scientific innovation, law enforcement and economic development. This legislation will not only benefit Kansans with federal programs aimed to keep communities safe and invest in infrastructure, but it also accelerates the goal of returning American astronauts to the moon and cementing our country's leadership in space exploration.\r\nThis legislation also strengthens trade enforcement and invests in advancing severe weather forecasting. I am grateful to have worked closely with Ranking Member Shaheen to pass a good government, bipartisan bill that enables numerous agencies within our jurisdiction to accomplish their missions and address the needs of our nation. I look forward to President Trump signing this legislation into law and seeing the ways in which these federal resources impact communities in Kansas and across the country.\r\n\r\nNIH Appropriations Increase\r\nThroughout my time in Congress, I have been an advocate for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and its mission to save lives, invest in the next generation of Americans and help to establish the United States as a world leader in health research and innovation. This week Congress provided additional resources that will serve to assist our nation's top minds and researchers in new discoveries, including treatments and cures for diseases. In addition, deadly and devastating diseases result in large financial pressure on families and our healthcare system. NIH's research serves to find new treatments and therefore reduces costs, serving to benefit all Americans.\r\n\r\nAppropriations Increase for International Food Aid\r\nWithin the FY2020 Appropriations package that passed last week were increases to international food aid resources. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I work to prioritize funding for our international food aid programs and I was pleased to see that both the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program and the Food for Peace Title II Grants received increases in funding to further their missions and assist in reducing global food security, and benefits Kansas farmers in moving commodities, such as grain. This is an issue in which the morally correct thing to do is also what's in the best interest of our country. By continuing to invest in Food for Peace, McGovern-Dole, and other international food aid programs, food grown by U.S. and Kansas farmers will save lives around the world and reduce conflict by promoting greater social and economic stability.\r\nPromoting Advancement in Technical Aviation Training\r\nRecently, I introduced The Promoting Aviation Regulations for Technical Training (PARTT) 147 Act of 2019. This legislation would establish performance-based regulations to ensure aviation maintenance education institutions have the flexibility to teach core curriculum reflective of the ongoing technical advances and innovation happening across the aviation and aerospace industry. Updated 50 years ago, these regulations are no longer reflective of the modernized industry, and updated curriculum requirements are critical in ensuring our future workforce of highly-skilled aviation maintenance technicians. \r\nProviding Better Care for Our Veterans\r\nOn Wednesday, I introduced the Competitive Pay for Leaders in Veterans Health Care Act to make certain we have the best possible workforce at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) delivering the best possible care to our veterans. Nine years ago, we passed a law to help VA recruit and retain the best and brightest leaders to manage the many different specialty care functions that VA provides. This bill will make certain that VA retains the ability to provide competitive pay to attract and keep highly specialized and highly competent leaders serving our veterans in the nation's largest integrated healthcare system. Without this change, VA would need to collect the higher payment amount back from current and past employees and would face significant challenges hiring qualified healthcare providers.\r\n\r\nHonoring Kansans at Arlington National Cemetery\r\nThis Tuesday I attended the funeral of Colonel (Ret.) Clyde and Sadie Tate at Arlington National Cemetery. Clyde and Sadie were the parents of one of my law school classmates, Butch, who went on to serve as the Deputy Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Army before retiring in 2013. Clyde had a distinguished career in the United States Army, enlisting in 1948 and rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class before commissioning as a second lieutenant in 1953. Throughout his career, Clyde served two combat tours in Vietnam, once deploying from Fort Riley, Kansas. His final posting allowed him to serve as the Director of the Department of Tactics at the Army Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, a school that his son would eventually graduate. Throughout Clyde's military career, Sadie made certain the family was happy and healthy after braving 37 moves.\r\nAttending Clyde's funeral and catching up with Butch was a somber occasion, but one that filled me with gratitude. The funeral was just days after Wreaths Across America took place, an event in which thousands of patriotic Americans across the country place wreaths on the gravestones of our fallen service members in national cemeteries, including the 400,000 in Arlington alone. Walking through Arlington National Cemetery and seeing every memorial stone adorned with a carefully-placed wreath highlighted the impact of these veteran's sacrifices and the debt we owe them for their service. As we look forward to Christmas, I ask you to keep the men and women serving in uniform in your prayers during this holiday season.\r\n\r\nJudicial Nominations Reach Record Numbers\r\nAt of the end of this week, the Senate confirmed the 187th Article III judge appointed by President Donald Trump. This includes the appointments of Judges Holly Teeter and John Broomes to the court for the District of Kansas, 50 circuit court judges, 133 district court judges and two international trade court judges. Working together, President Trump and the Senate sat more appellate court judges than any president in history. There is still work to be done with another 84 total judicial vacancies in the US and I will continue to work with my colleagues to fill these seats and ensure timely court access for all Americans.\r\nConfirming Kansan Michael Graham \r\nOn Thursday, the U.S. Senate confirmed Michael Graham to serve as a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board. A Wichita native, Mr. Graham currently serves as the Director of Flight Operations Safety, Security, and Standardization at Textron Aviation, where he has worked since 1997. Prior to his work in the aviation industry, he spent nine years as a Naval Aviator flying A-7's and F/A 18's as well as being an F/A-18 Aircrew instructor for Boeing/McDonnell Douglas. With a long and decorated career of service and safety, both in the military and as a civilian, Mr. Graham is well suited to be a member of the National Transportation Safety Board and I am proud to call him a Kansan. I appreciate his willingness to continue to serve our country and look forward to continuing to work together here in Washington. To watch my introduction of Mr. Graham to the Senate Commerce Committee earlier this year, please click here.\r\n\r\nPaying My Respects to Ben Bennett\r\nOn Friday morning, I attended the funeral service for a longtime public servant and friend, Ben Bennett. Ben began serving the community of Junction City in 1965 when he accepted a position as a high school government teacher and head wrestling coach, quickly establishing himself across the country for his positive impact on student-athletes. After his teaching and coaching career, Ben continued his public service as the Geary County Commissioner for over a decade. From my first days as a Congressman, I was lucky to know Ben and his desire to give back to his community. He served those around him loyally, and truly embodied the Kansan way of life. Ben's impact on the community will be remembered by many.\r\nVisiting Mitchell County\r\nAlso on Friday, I was in Mitchell County for a Kansas Listening Tour Stop in Beloit. I was able to hear directly from Kansans on the issues most important to them, ranging from the impeachment articles currently being held in the House, USMCA and our nation's border to government spending. Thank you to everyone who joined me for sharing your thoughts and opinions.\r\n\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-applauds-fy2020-nih-funding", "Sen. Moran Applauds FY2020 NIH Funding", "2019-12-23", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies  today released the following statement applauding the FY2020 Appropriations package for National Institutes of Health (NIH):\r\nThroughout my time in Congress, I have been an advocate for NIH and its mission to save lives, invest in the next generation of Americans and help to establish the United States as a world leader in health research and innovation. These additional resources in this bill will serve to assist our nation's top minds and researchers in new discoveries, including treatments and cures for diseases, and I applaud its passage in the Senate. In addition, deadly and devastating diseases result in large financial pressure on families and our healthcare system. NIH's research serves to find new treatments and therefore reduces costs, helping to benefit all Americans.\r\nItems to Note: \r\n \r\nWith the inclusion of this year's funding level, there has been a 38 percent increase in financial support over the past five years for the NIH.\r\nFull text of the FY2020 Appropriations package for NIH can be found here and a summary of Labor, Health and Human services can be found here.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2208", "Rep. Estes Announces 2020 Service Academy Nominees", "2019-12-20", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Estes Announces 2020 Service Academy Nominees\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        Wichita,\r\n        December 20, 2019 | \r\n      Greg Steele\r\n      (202-225-6216) \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WICHITACongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has nominated 22 students for U.S. service academies following an application and interview process that took place Nov. 1, 2019, with several students interviewed by phone on another date.Each year I'm always encouraged by the talent and dedication of our District's service academy applicants, said Rep. Estes. While the 22 nominees still have a rigorous journey before they are accepted at a service academy, I'm confident that our country is safer and stronger with these individuals leading our country in the 21st century.Students from the 4th District applied and were interviewed by a panel of local community leaders at the Wichita District Office. A one-on-one meeting with Rep. Estes followed their interview.Every year, Members of Congress may nominate up to ten candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: the U.S. Military Academy; the U.S. Naval Academy; the U.S. Air Force Academy; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment. Academies make the final selection for appointments based on additional evaluations.Applicants interested in applying for 2021 should visitestes.house.gov/forms/serviceacademynomination.Academy nominees (listed in alphabetical order by academy)\r\nPhotos of nominees with Congressman Estes available upon request.United States Military Academy at West Point  West Point, New York\r\n\r\n\r\n    Sam Baldwin, Andover Central High School, son of Mark and Kristina Baldwin\r\n    Morgan Busher, Campus High School, U.S. Army, daughter of Bobbie Brown\r\n    Creighton Camp, Andale High School, son of Joseph and Kiersten Camp\r\n    Dawson Canaan, Cheney High School, son of Dustin and Tiffany Canaan\r\n    Jayden Cates, Andale High School, daughter of Jason and Rebekah Cates\r\n    Jerik Ochoa, Newton High School, USMA Prep, son of Jimmie and Heather Ochoa\r\n    Arron Russell, Wichita Northwest High School, son of Brandon and Elizabeth Russell\r\n    Crew Squires, Derby High School and Wichita State University, son of Daniel Squires\r\n    Sophie Scrivner, Andover Central High School and Wichita State University, daughter of Steven and Margaret Scrivner\r\n    Brady Weathers, Trinity Academy, son of James and Anita Weathers\r\n    \r\n\r\nUnited States Naval Academy  Annapolis, Maryland\r\n\r\n    Sam Baldwin, Andover Central High School, son of Mark and Kristina Baldwin\r\n    Zach Bollinger, Hesston High School and Wichita State University, son of Shane and Emily Bollinger\r\n    Samantha Cornwell, Wichita East High School, daughter of Houston and Sounya Cornwell\r\n    Terah Graber, Eisenhower High School, daughter of Grace and Kurt Graber\r\n    Ronald Heminway, Hutchinson High School, son of Jeff and Jennifer Heminway\r\n    Aaron Lamson, Derby High School, son of Jay and Michelle Lamson\r\n    Sophie Scrivner, Andover Central High School and Wichita State University, daughter of Steven and Margaret Scrivner\r\n    Crew Squires, Derby High School and Wichita State University, son of Daniel Squires\r\n    Grant Treaster, Newton High School, son of Matt and Lisa Treaster\r\n    Georgiana Wilhelm, Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School, daughter of Paul and Mary Ellen Wilhelm\r\n    \r\n\r\nUnited States Air Force Academy  Colorado Springs, Colorado\r\n\r\n    Sam Baldwin, Andover Central High School, son of Mark and Kristina Baldwin\r\n    Michaela Birkholz, Maize High School, daughter of Jody and Tammy Birkholz\r\n    Zach Bollinger, Hesston High School and Wichita State University, son of Shane and Emily Bollinger\r\n    Shelby Clinton, Derby High School, daughter of Jennifer and Jonathan\r\n    Samantha Cornwell, Wichita East High School, daughter of Houston and Sounya Cornwell\r\n    Wyatt Hendrickson, Newton High School and USAFA Prep, son of Todd and Lynnette Hendrickson\r\n    Cameron Maltz, Valley Center High School, son of Jonathan and Jolene Maltz\r\n    Crew Squires, Derby High School and Wichita State University, son of Daniel Squires\r\n    Jessica Taylor, Wichita Heights High School, daughter of Altina Taylor\r\n    Brady Weathers, Trinity Academy, son of James and Anita Weathers\r\n    \r\n\r\nUnited States Merchant Marine Academy  Kings Point, New York\r\n\r\n\r\n    Terah Graber, Eisenhower High School, daughter of Grace and Kurt Graber\r\n    Aaron Lamson, Derby High School, son of Jay and Michelle Lamson\r\n    Sophie Scrivner, Andover Central High School and Wichita State University, daughter of Steven and Margaret Scrivner\r\n\r\nRon Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.\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://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/mitchell-county-listening-tour-beloit", "Mitchell County Listening Tour, Beloit", "2019-12-20", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Tour Stops \n\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\t\n\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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\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\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKansas Listening Tour\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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTour Stops\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\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\tMITCHELL COUNTYFriday, December 20Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative, Inc.Beloit", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2207", "Rep. Estes Votes to Approve USMCA", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a Member of the Ways and Means Committee and USMCA leadership whip team, voted in favor of approving the implementing legislation for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) today. Rep. Estes has championed the trade deal since it was announced by President Trump last year.\"As I have said for more than a year, passing the USMCA is great news for Kansas and our country,\" said Rep. Estes. \"The journey to this day has been longer and harder than it should have been. For too long, the USMCA took a back seat to partisan politics, causing farmers, ranchers, and workers to miss out on economic growth and jobs in the meantime. However today, we take a giant step forward to finally make this free and fair trade deal a reality. I thank President Trump and Ambassador Lighthizer for their leadership to follow through on another campaign promise and negotiate a critical deal for all Americans.\" Prior to today's vote, Rep. Estes spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives about the importance of approving the USMCA. Watch his remarks here. Following the vote, several organizations released statements praising the USMCA and Rep. Estes' work on the trade deal. \"USMCA is an important tool for Wichita and Kansas companies and farmers who rely on trade with our partners in Canada and Mexico,\"said Karyn Page, president/ CEO of Kansas Global Trade Services.\"We can't thank Congressman Estes enough for his leadership and hard work to get USMCA passed!\" \"Kansas Farm Bureau commends members of the Kansas Congressional delegation for helping all Kansans by voting for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement,\" said Rich Felts, president of Kansas Farm Bureau. \"USMCA builds on the success of the NAFTA agreement, and will ultimately lead to greater market access and stronger partnerships with our nearest neighbors. Kansas agriculture is the backbone of our state's export-focused economy that has benefited under NAFTA. In the midst of a challenging agriculture economy, the farmers and ranchers of Kansas stand ready to meet the demand of the gains achieved in the USMCA.\" \"The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is grateful to Rep. Estes for his efforts to modernize and strengthen trade across North America and for his vote in favor of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement,\"said Dennis Slater, president of AEM.\"The agreement ensures continued duty-free access to our industry's largest export markets, creates tens of thousands of new jobs, and adds $68 million to the U.S. economy. We applaud Rep. Estes for his work to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of our industry, the local communities we serve, and the 20,000 hard-working men and women of the equipment manufacturing industry in Kansas.\" Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/unlike-pelosi-house-republicans-have-bipartisan-cure-prescription-drug-costs", "Unlike Pelosi, House Republicans have a bipartisan cure for prescription drug costs", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Published in the Washington Examiner on December 14, 2019. Read the article online HERE\nAs physicians and healthcare providers, and now policymakers, we believe that innovation will drive the cost of healthcare down more than any new law or policy. Whether here in Congress or in our office as a physician, we strive to keep patients out of the hospital and at home and healthy with their loved ones. Having the best tools and medicine in our toolkit helps us achieve that mission.\n  Patients deserve access to cutting-edge medicine that is going to treat, and maybe even cure, Alzheimer's or diabetes. We need to make sure the next miracle drug sitting in the approval pipeline that could cure childhood cancers, as well as metastatic breast, lung, skin, prostate, or pancreatic cancers, are more quickly available for your loved ones. Lives literally depend on it. While we were in medical and dental school, there were simply no cures or good treatment options for most cancers, leukemia, hepatitis, depression, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Within the last decade we've seen groundbreaking medical miracles. One notable example is former President Jimmy Carter, who had widespread metastatic melanoma, and was treated by a groundbreaking immunotherapy drug. Thanks to American research and ingenuity, we have medicine unlike the world has ever seen  such as CAR T-cell therapy. Two therapies were approved by the Food and Drug Administration within the last two years to defeat lymphoma and acute pediatric lymphoblastic leukemia. More recently, the FDA approved a miracle drug for cystic fibrosis, which impacts 30,000 Americans. And finally, it's worth mentioning that just six years ago, Hepatitis C was a death sentence. Thanks to investments in innovation, 3.5 million people with Hepatitis C can now take a pill once a week for 12 weeks and be completely cured. None of these treatments would have been made available if it weren't for the U.S. protecting innovation and encouraging innovators to be pioneers. Last year, national healthcare spending reached $3.6 trillion. About one-third of all healthcare spending is tied to hospital care while prescription drugs make up 9%. About 28% of the federal budget is now being spent directly on healthcare. If we are ever going to balance the federal budget we must get the cost of healthcare under control. Protecting and streamlining the next miracle drugs are an obvious way to help do that. We cannot even begin to guess what the savings to Medicare costs would be if we had the cure for Alzheimer's and dementia and other illnesses where Medicare is the single largest payer. Speaker Nancy Pelosi recently introduced, and the House passed, H.R. 3, a government price-fixing bill that would absolutely decimate private research and development for potential future miracle drugs to ever come to market. As with any other industry, the federal government takeover of medicine will halt innovation and lower quality. While it may seem popular today to demonize western medicine, America is still the gold standard and global leader in cutting-edge medicine. Of note, of the 270 drugs which have come to the world market since 2011, 100% are available to patients in America compared to 8% in China, 41% in Australia, 52% in Canada, and 67% in Germany. With that said, as policymakers, we recognize the need to balance innovation while appropriately addressing shortcomings in our system. We're addressing these failures head on. Our solution is H.R. 19, the Lower Costs, More Cures Act. The provisions in this legislation are bipartisan and will lower out-of-pocket patient spending, protect access to new medicines and cures, strengthen transparency, and champion competition. We want to promote innovation, which requires government getting out of the way  not more government red-tape. H.R. 19 will make the process for FDA drug approval far more streamlined, and among other things, promote generic competition. Finally, for the first time ever, this bill provides seniors and Medicare recipients a cap on out-of-pocket drug spending which allows them to budget their out-of-pocket expenses annually. We want to reiterate that every single provision in this legislative alternative is bipartisan. H.R. 19 could actually become law. We truly can lower drug costs for consumers without destroying innovation, unlike H.R. 3. Thanks to the Trump administration's leadership, people now have twice the number of generic drugs approved per year in comparison to previous administrations, and the actual cost of prescriptions have gone down slightly for the first time in modern medical history. This is just the beginning  Republicans are ready to do more to work together with Democrats to lower prescription drug prices without killing ingenuity with government control. As physicians and healthcare providers, we will continue to advocate for incentivizing good health and prevention. Let's get to work and deliver meaningful solutions to all.\n Reps. Roger Marshall, M.D., of Kansas; Earl Buddy Carter, RPh, of Georgia; Greg Murphy, M.D., of North Carolina; David Roe, M.D., of Tennessee; John Joyce, M.D., of Pennsylvania; Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M., of Ohio; Andy Harris, M.D., of Maryland; Neal Dunn, M.D., of Florida; Brian Babin, D.D.S., of Texas; Drew Ferguson, D.M.D., of Texas; Mark Green, M.D., of Tennessee; Larry Bucshon, M.D., of Indiana, Ralph Abraham, M.D., of Louisiana, Scott DesJarlais, M.D., of Tennessee; and Michael Burgess, M.D., of Texas", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/marshall-end-impeachment-house-means-more-time-work-polic", "Marshall: End of impeachment in House means more time to work on policy", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The impeachment battle in the case of President Donald Trump now shifts from the US House to the Senate -- and if Kansas Congressman Roger Marshall and other Republicans had their way, things would have never gotten this far.\n\n\tDemocrats say the Trump administration was asked to investigate Hunter Biden, a one0time representative for a Ukranian gas company and the son of former Vice President Joe Biden, or else $400 million in military aid would be withheld. Marshall says that's not the case.\n\tTrial in the Senate is next, possibly next month. At least 21 Republicans would have to join Democrats for Trump to be convicted. Marshall says he's pleased the United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement, also known as USMCA, is being finalized soon despite the impeachment proceedings the last several months. Marshall says the end of impeachment in the House means he and other lawmakers in the lower chamber can work on other matters like healthcare and workforce development. He says he's working on a bipartisan legislation to cut prescription costs and the overall cost of healthcare.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/marshall-new-usmca-trade-deal-gold-standard", "Marshall: New USMCA trade deal gold standard", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published in Hutch News.\nU.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., called the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement the biggest trade agreement of our lifetime that will translate into thousands of jobs for Kansas.\nThe U.S. House of Representatives voted 385-41 for the USMCA on Thursday. All members of the Kansas delegation supported it. All but three of those voting against it were Democrats.\nMarshall would prefer the U.S. Senate quickly approve the legislation, but he said it will be affected by the articles of impeachment and when they reach the Senate for a trial of President Donald Trump. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., set aside January for those proceedings, Marshall said. However, if Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., delays sending the articles of impeachment to the Senate, McConnell could move the USMCA from February to January, Marshall said.\nIf I was betting, I would bet on February, Marshall said of Senate action on the trade deal.\nThere' is gamesmanship and it is holding Kansas hostage, he said. Marshall repeatedly criticized Pelosi for not bringing the trade deal to the House floor earlier in the year.\nThe deal is just a huge, huge Christmas present for the American farmer, Marshall said in a conference call with the media Thursday. A news release from Marshall's office contained praise for the pact from officials with Kansas Farm Bureau and the Kansas Livestock Association, as well as from leaders of grain and dairy associations.\nIt preserves the unrestricted access for U.S. beef exports to Canada and Mexico, said Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association, in the release.\nIt will ultimately lead to greater market access and stronger partnerships with our nearest neighbors, Kansas Farm Bureau president Rich Felts said.\nThe USMCA is a successor to the North American Free Trade Agreement and had the support of the AFL-CIO and the auto industry. It addresses issues ranging from digital trade to environmental issues to labor laws. It will help small business owners and manufacturers, Marshall said.\nThis agreement is the gold standard for future trade agreements, Marshall said, and will give Trump more reach as he negotiates a trade deal with China, he said.\nMarshall said it was hard to believe the House voted Wednesday largely along partisan lines to impeach Trump, then passed a trade deal on a bipartisan vote.\nMarshall contended the president did nothing impeachable, and he said he woke up Thursday morning with the intention to put the impeachment behind us. He said he played morning basketball with Republicans and Democrats, then attended a bipartisan prayer breakfast.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-celebrates-passage-historic-trade-agreement", "Marshall Celebrates Passage of Historic Trade Agreement", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday voted to ratifyPresident Trump's new United States, Mexico, Canada (USMCA) trade agreement providing necessary updates and improvements to the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). For the past two years, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. has been a leaderin the writing and passage of this trade agreement and today celebrates the victory this vote represents for farmers, small business owners and manufacturers. This agreement will create thousands of jobs in Kansas.\nToday I delivered on my number one legislative priority and voted to ratify President Trump's United State Mexico Canada trade agreement,said Rep. Marshall. This deal delivers hundreds of millions of dollars in market opportunities for Kansas agriculture goods, streamlined supply chains for our small businesses, and thousands of new jobs for hard working Kansans. This deal has been far too long in the making but I look forward to President Trump signing this agreement so he can deliver on his huge promise to the American people. I want to thank all of the agriculture organizations, trade associations and other industry groups who championed this effort and provided constant support throughout this endeavor.\nPassage of the UMSCA is a great win for Kansas Agribusiness,said Ron Seeber, President and CEO, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, and Renew Kansas Biofuels Association. Whether it be grain, ag inputs, or biofuels, passage shows the world that Kansas and the United States are open for business.\nCanada and Mexico are Kansas' top two trading partners with a combined $4 billion in exports in 2018 alone. The USMCA trade agreement will result in$68 billion in economic activity for our country, stability and certainty for our agriculture producers and small business owners, and sets a twenty-first century standard for future multi-lateral trade agreements.\nThis holiday season will be a bit brighter for America's dairy farmers as today's vote brings us one step closer to finalizing USMCA and securing a more certain future for the dairy industry,said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. Kansas's dairy industry appreciates the work that Congressman Marshall has invested to ensure USMCA will provide expanded market opportunities and a more level playing field for dairy exports. Now we are counting on the Senate to act quickly and finalize USMCA in order to deliver its improvements to North American trade.\nPassing USMCA was a top priority for Kansas Corn Growers Association. It was also a top priority for Congressman Marshall who played a key role in the passage of the USMCA in the House. We value his work to pass this important trade agreement,said KCGA President Steve Rome. Not only is Mexico the #1 export buyer of U.S. corn, over 40% of all Kansas agricultural exports go to Mexico and Canada. Mexico alone has the potential to import more than one billion gallons of ethanol. Canada accounts for more than 20% of our ethanol exports and their imports could increase four-fold.\nThe Kansas Livestock Association applauds the House for passing USMCA,said Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association. The agreement updates NAFTA to reflect our modern economy while preserving the unrestricted access for U.S. beef exports to Canada and Mexico. Approving USMCA sends the message to the rest of the world that we are open for business which is good news for Kansas agriculture.\nUSMCA builds on the success of the NAFTA agreement, and will ultimately lead to greater market access and stronger partnerships with our nearest neighbors,said Rich Felts, president of Kansas Farm Bureau. Kansas agriculture is the backbone of our state's export-focused economy that has benefited under NAFTA. In the midst of a challenging agriculture economy, the farmers and ranchers of Kansas stand ready to meet the demand of the gains achieved in the USMCA.\nKansas Wheat is very pleased to see the House pass USMCA and hopes the Senate will take it up and get it passed with the utmost haste,said Taylor Williamson, Governmental Affairs Director of Kansas Wheat. Mexico is the largest international buyer of Kansas wheat, and during a time when farmers are facing substantial economic hardship, it is vital that important markets like this remain open. Passing USMCA will give our farmers trade certainty and be a positive signal to our other buyers of wheat.\nUSMCA represents a modernized free trade agreement that will continue Kansas sorghum producers' ability to conduct business in key North American markets, especially with our Mexican partners,said Jesse McCurry, Executive Director of the Kansas Grain Sorghum Producers Association.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://watkins.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-steve-watkins-applauds-passage-usmca", "Congressman Steve Watkins Applauds Passage of USMCA", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Steven Watkins", "W000824", "watkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Contact:Dylan.Jones@mail.house.gov\n\nFor Immediate Release:\nDecember 19, 2019\n\nCongressman Steve Watkins Applauds Passage of USMCA\n\nWashington, D.C. Congressman Steve Watkins (KS-02), one of two freshman lawmakers on Republican Whip Steve Scalise's USMCA Whip Team, applauds the passage of the historic United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) trade deal with Canada and Mexico, Kansas' two largest trading partners. USMCA is a rebalanced and modernized North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) for the 21st century. Kansas currently exports around $2.0 billion to each country, and this agreement will only increase those exports.\n\nCongressman SteveWatkinsissued the following statement:\nKansans will prosper from this historic USMCA trade deal for generations to come. Kansas farmers, ranchers, workers, and business owners tell me every day how much they need this critical agreement that will provide greater access to markets, and freer and fairer trade with our largest trading partners. 384 days ago, President Trump signed USMCA and sent it to Congress, delivering on a key promise to re-negotiate the best North American trade deal possible for the United States. It is disgraceful that the obstructionist Democrats have held USMCA hostage for over a year  depriving families of the tremendous economic growth that USMCA is sure to bring  and chose instead to waste time and taxpayer dollars conducting a rigged, baseless impeachment inquiry. I am glad we were able to get USMCA one step closer to passage into law, and that my work on the USMCA Whip Team is helping to get this crucial trade deal across the finish line. \n\nRepublican Whip Steve Scalise issued the following statement: \nUSMCA is a triumph for workers. President Trump has delivered a 21st century trade deal that truly benefits the forgotten men and women of America. It has been a team effort to get this deal over the finish line and no team was more critical to this process than the USMCA Whip Team. We wouldn't be here without Steve's hard work and engagement.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-applauds-passage-of-fy2020-commerce-justice-and-science-appropriations-package", "Sen. Moran Applauds Passage of FY2020 Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Package", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS)  today released the following statement applauding the passage of the FY2020 Appropriations package for CJS:\r\nThis fiscally responsible bill includes essential resources to further our nation's priorities in scientific innovation, law enforcement and economic development, and I applaud its passage as part of the full Appropriations bill. This legislation will not only benefit Kansans with federal programs aimed to keep communities safe and invest in infrastructure, but it also accelerates the goal of returning American astronauts to the moon and cementing our country's leadership in space exploration.\r\nThis legislation also provides the necessary support for the U.S. Census Bureau as it undertakes the 2020 Decennial Census, strengthens trade enforcement and invests in advancing severe weather forecasting. I am grateful to have worked closely with Ranking Member Shaheen to pass a good government, bipartisan bill that enables numerous agencies within our jurisdiction to accomplish their missions and address the needs of our nation. I look forward to President Trump signing this legislation into law and seeing the ways in which these federal resources impact communities in Kansas and across the country.\r\nItems to Note: \r\n \r\nIn September, the Appropriations Committee passed the FY2020 CJS Appropriations bill.\r\nIn mid-October, Sen. Moran spoke on the Senate floor about the FY2020 CJS Appropriations bill and the importance of getting it, along with other funding legislation, across the finish line.\r\nFor a full summary of theFY2020 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act,click here.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sens-moran-tester-introduce-bill-to-provide-pay-fix-to-va-health-administration-employees", "Sens. Moran, Tester Introduce Bill to Provide Pay Fix to VA Health Administration Employees", "2019-12-19", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.)  members of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee  introduced the Competitive Pay for Leaders in Veterans Health Care Act to create a pay fix for Senior Executive Service (SES)-Equivalents in the Veterans Health Administration.\r\nTo deliver the best possible care for our veterans, we need to have the best possible workforce at the Department of Veterans Affairs, said Sen. Moran. Nine years ago, we passed a law to help VA recruit and retain the best and brightest leaders to manage the many different specialty care functions that VA provides. This bill will make certain that VA retains the ability to provide competitive pay to attract and keep highly specialized and highly competent leaders serving our veterans.\r\nThe Department of Veterans Affairs must be an employer of choice for talented professionals, said Sen. Tester, Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. This bipartisan legislation will ensure that VA is able to recruit and retain individuals who help the Veterans Health Administration provide high-quality care and services to our nation's veterans.\r\nThe Competitive Pay for Leaders in Veterans Health Care Act excludes SES-Equivalent positions from a Level V pay cap, putting their salary in line with the intent of a 2010 law that allowed these healthcare administration employees to be paid competitively. Without this change, VA would need to collect the higher payment amount back from current and past employees and would face significant challenges hiring qualified healthcare leaders.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2206", "Rep. Estes Votes Against Articles of Impeachment", "2019-12-18", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after voting against two articles of impeachment in the U.S. House of Representatives.\"Tonight's impeachment is not about evidence, the rule of law or the Constitution. Instead, the articles of impeachment passed tonight by the U.S. House of Representatives are the culmination of a desire by many House Democrats to impeach President Trump which began the day he was sworn-in,\" said Rep. Estes. \"Despite the standards called for by Speaker Pelosi, tonight's impeachment was completely partisan and without compelling evidence. I voted against impeaching President Trump and will continuestanding with the millions of Kansans and Americans who voted for Donald Trump and who are against these reckless articles of impeachment. Speaker Pelosi rightly predicted this would be a divisive maneuver, yet the radical left has pushed it forward. My hope is that once this is over, the House can get back to work for the American people.\" Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/rep-marshall-enough-impeachment-circus", "Rep. Marshall: Enough of this impeachment circus", "2019-12-18", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published by Hutch News.\nWASHINGTON The U.S. House is marching toward a historic vote to impeach President Donald Trump. As debate proceeded Wednesday afternoon,Kansas First District congressman Roger Marshall spoke on behalf of the President. \"I rise today in opposition to the impeachment of the legitimately elected president of the United States. Enough! Madam Speaker enough! Enough of this impeachment circus! Enough of these sham witch hunts! I'm voting no because the president has done nothing wrong. The only thing the president is guilty of is doing the things he said he would do. And if my democrat colleagues were honest, they'd tell us the only thing President Trump is guilty of is not being Hillary Clinton.\nThe only party of obstruction, abuse of power, or whatever focus group term they are using today is the party on the other side of this aisle. They are obstructing the will of the American people and the very foundation of our country.\nBy politically weaponizing impeachment, they have dangerously shattered precedent and abused out constitution. They along will bear this responsibility. Madam Speaker, they will fail and it's no wonder the American people don't trust this body.\nIt's past time to be done with this circus and get to the work that matters like securing our borders and passing trade deals.\nI will vote no and encourage this body to move on from this heartbreaking, disgraceful day to things that actually matter.\"\nTrump would be just the third American president to be impeached, a distinctive dark mark on his tenure. From the White House, he tweeted that despite the Democrats' patriotic talk, they were actually perpetrating an assault on America. He and his Republican supporters say the Democrats are just trying to remove a president they couldn't beat at the ballot box.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-vote-no-impeachment", "Marshall to Vote NO on Impeachment", "2019-12-18", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., issued a statement prior toa vote in the House of Representatives on two Articles of Impeachment against Donald J. Trump, President of the United States; (1) abuse of power, and (2) obstruction of Congress:\n \n\tI will votenobecause this President has done nothing wrong,said Dr. Marshall.And if my Democrat colleagues were honest, they'd tell us that the only thing President Trump is guilty of is not being Hillary Clinton. The only party guilty of obstruction, abuse of power, or whatever focus group term they are using today, is the party on the other side of this aisle.It's past time to be done with this circus, and to get to the work that matters like securing our borders and passing trade deals. I will voteno, and encourage everyone to move on from this disgraceful moment in time, and onto the things that actually matter to the American people.\n \nWatch Congressman Marshall's entire floor speechHERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://watkins.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-watkins-vote-no-articles-impeachment", "Rep. Watkins to Vote No on Articles of Impeachment", "2019-12-18", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Steven Watkins", "W000824", "watkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Contact:Dylan.Jones@mail.house.gov\n\nFor Immediate Release:\nDecember 18, 2019\n\nRep. Watkins to Vote No on Articles of Impeachment\n\nWashington, D.C.Rep. Steve Watkins (KS-02) to vote no on both of Democrats' partisan articles of impeachment. \n\nRep. Steve Watkins issued the following statement:\n\"After three years of obstruction and resistance, Democrats brought forward articles of impeachment that prove once and for all this entire process has been nothing more than desperate political theatre. The American people deserve better. I will be voting no on both articles of impeachment. The facts show President Trump has not committed an impeachable offense. I was elected to Congress to deliver results for Kansans--not waste their time and tax dollars on a baseless witch hunt designed to delegitimize the 2016 election and divide our nation.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-applauds-increased-international-food-aid-funding-in-fy2020-ag-appropriations-bill", "Sen. Moran Applauds Increased International Food Aid Funding in FY2020 Ag Appropriations Bill", "2019-12-18", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus and member of Senate Appropriations Committee  today released the following statement applauding the funding levels of the FY2020 Appropriations package for international food aid:\r\nAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, I work to prioritize funding for our international food aid programs and I was pleased to see that both the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program and the Food for Peace Title II Grants received increases in funding to further their missions and assist in reducing global food security.\r\nThis is an issue in which the morally correct thing to do is also what's in the best interest of our country. By continuing to invest in?Food for Peace,?McGovern-Dole?and other international food aid programs, food grown by U.S. and Kansas farmers will save lives around the world and reduce conflict by promoting greater social and economic stability.\r\nItems to Note: \r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2204", "Rep. Estes Releases Statement on FY 2020 Appropriations Bills", "2019-12-17", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-KS) released the following statement on H.R. 1158 and H.R. 1865, the two federal government spending packages that passed in the House today:\"I voted for the defense budget bill passed today that funds the largest pay raise for our troops in a decade, allows for border security and rebuilds our military,\" said Rep. Estes. \"While this funding bill is critical for our national security, I voted against the second budget bill for domestic spending. I fought to include several key provisions in the bill including grants for water improvement projects such as the Equus Beds Aquifer that provides water for Wichita and the surrounding region and the SECURE Act to provide greater retirement security for more Americans. I'm pleased these provisions can now go into law, but ultimately couldn't vote for the final spending package because of the irresponsible level of overall spending added by House Democrats. In Congress, I'll continue to fight to cut government spending and limit the size of government.\" Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2205", "Rep. Estes Announces Fourth District Congressional App Competition Winners", "2019-12-17", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WICHITALast week during Computer Science Education Week, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) met with the Kansas Fourth District winners of this year's Congressional App Challenge. \"It was great to meet this year's first and second place winners from our District during Computer Science Education Week and see their exciting work firsthand,\" said Rep. Estes. \"All of the students involved submitted impressive apps, and I look forward to hosting this competition in our District again next year.\"  \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n\r\nThis was the first year the Fourth District participated in the national Congressional App Challenge. The competition offers an opportunity for middle school and high school students to showcase their creativity and technical skill by submitting the app of their choosing that they have created in the last calendar year, either for a class project, extracurricular or specifically for the App Challenge. Students living in or attending school in Kansas' Fourth District were eligible to compete as individuals or teams of up to four. The winning app will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building and featured on House.gov. A panel of three individuals in the computer science field selected the winners. First place winner Abir Haque's Bangla Alphabet App helps English speakers develop literacy in Bengali with interactive charts, language facts, transliteration software and quizzes. Haque used Python, JavaScrip and other code to develop the app and is a student at Wichita East High School. The second-place team of Judah Hansen and Jessica Ta entered their app Bloom, which encourages a healthy sleep schedule by recording a user's sleep time and rewarding healthy patterns through a cactus that grows when suggested hours are completed. Users can use points to collect more cacti in their garden. Hansen is a student at The Independent School and Ta is a student at Wichita Southeast High School.  \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n\r\nRon Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-statement-on-senate-passage-of-the-national-defense-authorization-act", "Sen. Moran Statement on Senate Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act", "2019-12-17", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement after the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA):\r\nThe NDAA is critical to safeguarding our freedoms and supporting our servicemembers and their families. This legislation further modernizes our military and includes the largest pay raise for our troops in nearly a decade. I applaud my colleagues for working to create a bipartisan bill that we can send to the President's desk.\r\nI was particularly pleased to see several of my priorities included in the final legislation. This includes the Cyber Red Team Assessment to increase security against new and emerging cyber threats, which will help support missions related to the 177th Information Aggressor Squadron of the Kansas Air National Guard Unit stationed at McConnell Air Force Base. In addition, the NDAA includes my bill, the Global Leadership in Advanced Manufacturing Act, to strengthen Kansas manufacturers, specifically within aerospace, defense, technology and agriculture. I'm also pleased that this bill will secure a Military-Type Certification for the Textron AT-6 Light Attack Aircraft, which will have a significant impact on the Kansas aerospace community.\r\nAdditional Sen. Moran priorities included in NDAA: \r\n \r\nThe NDAA includes provisions from legislation Sen. Moran has championed, the Startup Act, to modernize and increase the authorization level of EDA's Regional Innovation and Strategies Program. This will provide essential proof-of-concept and commercialization assistance to innovators and entrepreneurs, and operational support for organizations that provide early-stage risk capital to businesses. \r\nThe NDAA includes Sen. Moran's measure to prevent federal transit dollars from being used to procure subway cars, other passenger railcars and transit buses from Chinese state-owned, controlled or subsidized enterprises, with limited exception.\r\nThe NDAA reflects Sen. Moran's work to make certain Guantanamo Bay detainees are treated for medical conditions in Cuba instead of transferring them to the United States to prevent future permanent transfers to U.S. facilities.\r\nThe NDAA includes legislation Sen. Moran cosponsored to prevent survivors of fallen troops from being subject to the Widow's Tax, an offset between the VA's Dependency and Indemnity Compensation program and the DoD's Survivor Benefit Plan.\r\nThe NDAA includes Sen. Moran's efforts to support Hypersonic research and development.\r\n \r\nItems to Note: \r\n \r\nIn May, Sen. Moran introduced the Global Leadership in Advanced Manufacturing Act to strengthen American manufacturing. This legislation was included in the Senate-passed NDAA.\r\nIn June, Sen. Moran's amendment regarding Cyber Red Team Assessment was included in the Senate's NDAA.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/senator-roberts-applauds-passage-of-ndaa", "Senator Roberts Applauds Passage of NDAA", "2019-12-17", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (NDAA), which provides $735 billion in funding for national defense spending.\r\nToday's passage of the NDAA will provide our men and women in uniform a well-deserved and much needed pay raise, said Sen. Roberts. As the senior Marine in Congress, I understand how crucial the NDAA is to ensuring our troops are provided with the best equipment, training and support necessary to serve our country. I am also pleased to see that Kansas companies will be a direct benefactor of funding provided in the NDAA.\r\nThis legislation will give troops a 3.1% pay raise, the largest pay raise for members of the armed forces in nearly a decade. It also creates a new U.S. Space Force as the sixth Armed Service of the U.S. Air Force, supports the lives of military families by including landmark reform of the military privatized housing system, provides critical funding for disaster recovery and invests in advancements in technology to counter adversaries like Russia and China.\r\n\r\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://watkins.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-steve-watkins-introduces-resolution-expressing-support-president", "Congressman Steve Watkins Introduces Resolution Expressing Support for President Trump\u2019s Executive Order on Combating anti-Semitism", "2019-12-16", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Steven Watkins", "W000824", "watkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Contact:Dylan.Jones@mail.house.gov\n\nFor Immediate Release:\nDecember 16, 2019\n\nCongressman Steve Watkins Introduces Resolution Expressing Support for President Trump's Executive Orderon Combating anti-Semitism\n\nWashington, D.C.On December 14th, Congressman Steve Watkins (KS-02) introducedH. Res.764, expressingthe support oftheHouse of Representatives for the priorities and goals of President Trump's executive orderoncombating anti-Semitism.\n\nCongressman SteveWatkinsissued the following statement:\nAs a strong defender of Israel and ally to Jewish Americans,Iamproud to introduce this resolution that supports President Trump's executive order combating anti-Semitism, particularlyin schools andon college campuses.Educational institutionsshould be a place where intellectual, political, and religious diversity is celebrated. I applaud the President for his actions in signing this executive order and look forward tomyresolution garnering support from my colleaguesin the House that stand against anti-Semitism in any form.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/encouraging-u-s-competitiveness", "Encouraging U.S. Competitiveness", "2019-12-16", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Statement Regarding Articles of Impeachment Advanced by the House Judiciary Committee\r\nDemocrats have been trying to overturn the results of President Trump's election and delegitimize his presidency for three years. The impeachment hearings led by House Democrats have been purely partisan and the entire process has been flawed. I do not support the articles of impeachment advanced by the House Judiciary Committee. Should these articles of impeachment be sent from the House, President Trump will finally have a fair trial in the Senate. Under the Constitution, the role of a Senator is to act as a juror. Therefore, unless and until the House impeaches President Trump, and the Senate has concluded its review of the impeachment charges, it is inappropriate for me to say how I would vote. But I've seen no evidence that President Trump should be removed from office.\r\nEncouraging U.S. Competitiveness\r\nAs co-chair and founder of the Senate Competitiveness Caucus, I was pleased to join the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) and the Brookings Institute to discuss their newly-released report The Case for Growth Centers: How to Spread Tech Innovation Across America. The findings show that from 2005 to 2017, 90 percent of the nation's innovation sector growth occurred in only five metropolitan areas, all of which are located on the coasts. This type of concentration does not allow us to capitalize on the potential of all regions, including Kansas.\r\nI founded the Competitiveness Caucus with the core focus of generating awareness on issues pertinent to U.S. economic growth, and what it means for our national security, prosperity and role as a worldwide economic leader. As the global economy continues to become increasingly integrated and automated, it will take our entire nation to maintain the United States' position as an innovative leader. By removing federal barriers and providing targeted federal resources, we can foster an environment where innovation can flourish and cement America's role as a global economic power. Thank you to the ITIF and Brookings for their work to examine this issue. I remain committed to working with them and my Senate colleagues to do more to expand these growth centers across the country.\r\n\r\nRecognizing Major Kelly McManus\r\nOn Wednesday, I spoke on the floor in tribute of my Congressional Army Fellow, Major Kelly McManus. Over the past year, she has worked to serve Kansans, service-members and veterans in my Washington, D.C. office demonstrating her leadership and professionalism. After spending time in our state and having personal conversations with Kansans, she led efforts to secure maternity leave for those serving in the National Guard and Reserve and sought to increase access to suicide prevention programs and destigmatize the notions surrounding mental illness. A testament to her leadership over this past year was her promotion to Major in July, which I had the honor and privilege of attending and participating in. Kelly has had an outstanding career in the Army over the past ten years, deploying abroad and serving stateside, and I look forward to following her future accomplishments in service to our nation. Thank you, Kelly.\r\n\r\nSending a Holiday Card to our Troops\r\nThis week, I stopped by the American Red Cross' Holiday Mail for Heroes event to write a card for a service-member serving overseas during the holiday season. The holiday season provides a time for us to show our appreciation for others, and there is no one we should appreciate more than the men and women serving our country. Thank you to all our brave service members, and their families, for your sacrifice while spending time away from loved ones this holiday season.\r\n\r\nApplauding Agreements Reached on Trade\r\nI have long advocated for movement on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), and I applaud the White House and Congress for reaching an agreement this week and advancing this deal. Canada and Mexico are Kansas' top two export markets, and over the last two years, I have heard directly from Kansans how vital a modern trade deal like USMCA would be for our farmers, ranchers and manufacturers to compete and succeed in the 21st Century economy. Now is the time to get USMCA across the finish line, and I urge the House to quickly bring USMCA up for a vote.\r\nPresident Trump also announced a Phase One trade deal with China. I have advocated for an agreement that addresses China's bad behavior on trade, while restoring markets for American products, especially agricultural goods. According to the United States Trade Representative (USTR), the agreement will address much of China's misbehavior on trade, including intellectual property theft and forced technology transfer. China also agreed to purchase $200 billion in additional goods from the United States, including $40-$50 billion in agricultural products annually for the next two years. In return, the U.S. has indefinitely suspended enacting additional rounds of tariffs on imports from China and lowered certain tariffs currently in effect. While I look forward to reviewing the details of the agreement, this appears to be a positive step toward reducing trade tension and expanding market access to China.\r\n\r\nAdvancing Legislation\r\nNational Suicide Hotline Designation Act\r\nOn Wednesday, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act passed out of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and is now up for consideration by the full Senate. I am a cosponsor of this legislation that would provide increased and expedited mental health support to those who need it by designating 9-8-8 as the number dedicated solely to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, similar to 9-1-1. According to a 2017 report by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of 47,000 people that year. This tragic public health pattern is more prominent in particularly vulnerable populations like that of our veterans' community. The Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) recent National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report indicated that the suicide rate for veterans in 2017 was 1.5 times the rate for non-veteran adults.\r\nWhile Americans currently have access to a ten-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a report produced by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), VA and others found the designation of a three-digit hotline, specifically 9-8-8, dedicated solely to national suicide prevention and mental health crisis management would significantly increase Americans' access to potentially life-saving services. As a member of both the Senate Veterans' Affairs and Commerce Committees, I remain committed to ensuring veterans and all Americans have timely access to professional-level resources for suicide prevention and mental health.\r\nThe CONTRACT Act\r\nAlso during Wednesday's Senate Commerce Committee meeting, I was pleased the Continuity for Operators with Necessary Training Required for ATC Contract Towers (CONTRACT) Act, passed out of committee. I am an original cosponsor of this legislation which supports our aviation industry by removing an unnecessary barrier in the hiring pipeline for air traffic control facilities participating in the FAA's Federal Contract Tower (FCT) program. With 256 air traffic control towers currently participating in the FCT program, including eight located in Kansas, these towers are imperative to managing the safety and efficiency of our nation's complex airspace and are often staffed by retired FAA controllers. Due to changes in the Federal Employees Retirement System, retired FAA air traffic control specialists face an offset penalty that subtracts from their retirement payments when they earn more than a set amount annually. Given that FAA controllers face mandatory retirement at age 56, these experienced controllers should not have to choose between continuing to use their skills at a contract tower or the retirement benefits they earned. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this important issue and further supporting our nation's contract towers.\r\n\r\nThe FIRST Act\r\nOn Thursday, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee advanced my bill, the FIRST Act, to be considered by the full Senate. The FIRST Act would allow the names of fallen First Infantry Division soldiers who were killed in Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn, and Enduring Freedom to be added to the First Infantry Division Monument located on the grounds of the White House. This monument currently honors the service, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice of each individual soldier who was Killed in Action while serving in the Big Red One during World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and Desert Storm. It is imperative that we continue to honor the service and sacrifice of our First Infantry Division soldiers, and I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to send this bill to the President's desk.\r\nConfirming the Director of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services\r\nOn Thursday, the Senate confirmed Aurelia Skipwith to be the Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). Director Skipwith is an effective leader and recognizes the value of working with local stakeholders to find sensible solutions. In October of this year, I met with Director Skipwith in her previous capacity as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks at the Department of the Interior to discuss the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge water rights dispute. I explained the need for farmers and ranchers to be able to utilize groundwater in the basin and the importance of agriculture to the rural economy. In the meeting, Director Skipwith committed to working with local stakeholders to find a voluntary solution to the dispute, and the first meeting between FWS and stakeholders in Kansas has taken place since then. I am pleased the Senate voted to confirm her, and I look forward to continuing to work with her and Kansans to find a resolution to the Quivira water rights dispute.\r\n\r\nConfirming U.S. Ambassador to Russia\r\nOn Thursday, the Senate overwhelmingly approved John Sullivan to be our nation's new ambassador to Russia. This important position has been vacant for two months, and I am pleased the Senate moved quickly to fill it. Russia remains a key threat to the United States, and it is essential to have a diplomat in place to defend American interests and explore, if possible, ways to improve the relationship. Sullivan pledged resolute opposition where Russia undermines American interests, including threatening election security. I am confident Ambassador Sullivan will serve the United States well in Moscow.\r\nDiscussing Flood Corp Pools\r\nOn Friday, I hosted a meeting with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District (USACE KC), Kansas Farm Service Agency (KFS), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRSC), Risk Management Agency and Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) to discuss the Tuttle Creek Reservoir and the impact of the 2019 flooding within the area. This was an opportunity to explore solutions for those negatively impacted by flooding north of the reservoir and to hear from the agencies with a role in providing financial relief and resiliency measures in response to flooding events. I want to thank the farmers and landowners who joined the meeting to share their stories and how their operations have been affected, as well as the agency representatives USACE KC District Commander Col. William Hannan, KSF Executive Director David Schemm, USDA NRSC State Conservationist Karen Woodrich,Risk Management Agency Regional Office Director Collin Olsen, and KDWPT Secretary Brad Loveless for attending.\r\n\r\nTouring Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company\r\nOn Friday, I toured the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company commercial manufacturing plant in Topeka. This site was originally constructed in 1944 as part of a federal government program during World War II, and then purchased the next year by Goodyear. The plant will soon be celebrating its 75th Anniversary, demonstrating the long commitment Goodyear has made to employment in Kansas. During the tour, I was able to see the manufacturing process and learn about the strong partnership they have with the Topeka Chamber, who also joined us for the tour. Thank you to Brian Riley and Nathan Facey for hosting the tour and Matt Pivarnik, Curtis Sneden, and Molly Howey from the Topeka Chamber for joining.\r\n\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-expands-resources-farm-stress-and-mental-health-assistance", "Marshall expands resources for farm stress and mental health assistance", "2019-12-13", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Farmer suicides have increased at a faster pace than the general population over the last several years. Making sure farmers and ranchers have adequate access to mental health services can save lives.\nThe 2018 Farm Bill reauthorized the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network and this week U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. sent a letter to House and Senate Leadership requesting continued funding for the program to address the lack of mental health support in rural communities by providing additional resources and services.\nRead the letter in its entiretyHERE.\n \n\tFarmers face uniquely stressful factors on a daily basis, such as financial risks, unpredictable weather and heavy workloads,said Dr. Marshall in the letter.Combined with a prolonged downturn in the farm economy and lack of mental health resources in rural areas, mental and emotional wellbeing in farm country is increasingly strained.\n \nThe Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network connects farmers, ranchers, and those in agriculture-related fields to stress-assistance programs. The network can help those in need by offering resources like helplines, community outreach and education, support groups, and other services that can help improve mental health. An initial $2 million for the program was awarded to groups throughout the country to begin implementation of the network but more funding is needed to ensure all communities are served.\nThankfully, this is not the only work being done in this important area. Earlier this week, Rep. Marshall participated in an event with Farm Credit,American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, and Michigan State University Extension to announce theManaging Farm Stress program; a new, private program to train individuals who work with farmers and ranchers to recognize signs of stress and connect those farmers with professionals who can help.\nRep. Marshall's remarks at the event can be seenHERE(11:35 mark).\n \n\tI am so proud of the work being done to help our farmers and ranchers,said Dr. Marshall.Nearly every corner of the agriculture industry has come together to offer solutions and provide resources for those who are struggling. Our producers work 365 days a year to raise the safest, mostaffordable, and highest quality food supply in the world. It's vital we step up and take care of them in this critical time of need.\n \nYesterday, the Federal Communications Commission voted unanimously to advance a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking establishing \"9-8-8\" as a new nationwide, three-digit hotline for mental health and suicide prevention. I applaud Chairman Pai and the Commission for considering this important measure and continuing to do their part in providing resources for those who are struggling in Kansas and around the country,said Dr. Marshall.\nHaving quick access to help can make all the difference in times of crisis. Earlier this year Congressman Marshall, who is a member of the House Mental Health Caucus, joined as an original co-sponsor ofH.R. 4194, which would permanently establish this three digit suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/more-accurate-weather-forecasting-helps-agriculture", "More accurate weather forecasting helps agriculture", "2019-12-12", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Publish in the High Plains Journal on Dec. 9, 2019. Read the article online HERE.\n\tGrowing up on our family's farm, one thing was for sure: at 12:20 p.m., over lunch, and at about 10:20 p.m., over a milkshake, we'd all quietly sit in front of the television watching the weather. Or, if my dad, siblings and I were out on adventure in his 1966 Ford truck, we'd be listening to Cecil Carrier on KDFI radio to make sure we wouldn't get caught off-guard by a late afternoon Kansas thunderstorm. Now, as a Member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, I help to oversee the National Weather Service, which is responsible for providing timely and accurate weather forecasts for the general public.\n\n\tThis past spring brought some of the worst flooding seen in years for Kansas. In addition to the late spring snow in Minnesota and the Dakotas, rapid melt coupled with increased rainfall inundated farming communities as they headed into planting season. Producers were left with oversaturated fields, facing unfriendly growing conditions and uncertainty on when they'd be able to plant their crops. More accurate forecasts could have helped farmers better plan for the conditions they would have faced, and in some cases saved thousands of dollars in lost seed, fertilizer, stored crops, and labor cots.\n\t\n\t\tOver the past decade, the U.S. has slowly fallen behind other countries in its ability to timely and accurately predict storms and weather events. In 2012, the path of Hurricane Sandy was correctly predicted by the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts nearly eight days ahead of it hitting the U.S. east coast. That path was confirmed by the American National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service, and National Hurricane center almost four days later.\n\t\n\t\n\t\tThe record-setting destruction of Hurricane Sandy raised concerns about the United States' weather forecasting ability and methods, and as a result, Congress recognized that improving weather data, modeling, computing and forecasting needed to be a priority. In 2017, President Trump signed the Weather Researching and Forecasting Innovation Act, directed NOAA to take additional steps toward acquiring and integrating commercial data into weather forecasting models. The following year, Congress directed NOAA to create the Earth Prediction Innovation Center, (EPIC) which shifted weather forecasting techniques to focus on a community forecast model.\n\t\n\t\n\t\tEPIC has allowed the federal government to crowdsource research and data from the private sector and research institutions. The United States is home to some of the best minds and most advanced labs, so providing a way for those communities to contribute to weather modeling and prediction can better enhance American weather forecasting abilities.\n\t\t\n\t\t\tFor farmers and ranchers, especially here in Kansas, accurate and timely weather forecasts are essential to their long-term success. Weather impacts what a farmer might plant and when, as well as how they might tend to those crops over the course of a growing season. Weather impacts everything from pest and disease control to field irrigation and harvest decisions. Similarly, rural communities depend on accurate weather forecasts to prepare for severe weather.\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tIt's clear that the federal government should be doing more in the area of accurate and timely forecasting, and public-private partnerships are a great way to ensure that the data used for weather modeling and prediction is as accurate as possible. We will never be able to control Mother Nature but having the ability to better predict and and plan for her next move can provide unmeasured benefits to agriculture and all aspects of our economy.\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-KS, is a member of the House Agriculture Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/pet-food-industry-vital-part-kansas-economy", "Pet Food Industry Vital Part of Kansas Economy", "2019-12-12", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Originally published in the Emporia Gazette on Dec. 12, 2019. Read it online HERE.\nThe pet food industry is  simply  HUGE for Kansas.\nPet food manufacturers are popping up all over, what is now being dubbed, the Animal Health Corridor, which stretches from Manhattan to Columbia, Missouri, and Emporia to Omaha, Nebraska. This booming production in the greater-Kansas region now accounts for more than half of all pet industry sales in the U.S. and provides thousands of jobs to Kansans.\nAs companion animal products gain a larger foothold in the overall animal food market, it's vital we continue to do all we can to capitalize on that growth and encourage the development of the pet food industry to not only benefit our farmers, but all Kansans.\n\nOver two-thirds of American households own a pet, and each household spends an average of $300 annually on pet food and treats, accounting for more than $5.8 billion in sales in 2018  that's more than cattle, swine, poultry and horses combined.\nFeeding and caring for household pets is big business, and has major growth potential for the Kansas economy.\nWe scored a large victory with a new trade deal with Japan  the U.S.'s number two importer of pet food  which was signed by President Trump earlier this year and will go into effect by Jan. 1, 2020.\nThe American pet food industry is poised to gain from the passage of the USMCA trade deal. The vast majority of pet foods exported from the U.S. go to Canada and Mexico, numbers 1 and 3 respectively, and USMCA will benefit U.S. pet food makers and ingredient suppliers by ensuring continued transparency in regulation, predictability and tariff-free trade with these countries.\nThat trade deal has currently sat on Speaker Pelosi's desk for nearly a year.\nEmporia is the self-declared Pet Nutrition Capital of the World and home to three major animal health companies  Hill's Pet Nutrition, Cargill Animal Nutrition and Simmons Pet Food. From one company and 41 employees in 1994, this community now provides more than 1,000 jobs directly related to the pet food industry.\nAs the Trump administration opens up new markets and the global pet food industry continues to grow, Kansas is poised to gain in a big way. Some of the most successful and innovative pet food companies in the world are here in Kansas, incorporating our agriculture products in their pet food supply.\nThere's a direct link between the pet food industry and the Kansas economy, and I will continue to work to expand the opportunities for the industry both domestically and internationally  starting with the USMCA Trade agreement.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-urges-house-deliver-real-solutions-american-patients", "Marshall urges House to deliver real solutions for American patients", "2019-12-12", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., votedNOon H.R. 3, a government price-fixing bill that would decimate private research and development for future lifesaving treatments. American patients deserve access to new medicine that is going to treat, and maybe even cure, Alzheimer's, diabetes, or cancer,said Rep. Marshall. We need to make sure a miracle drug, the one that could save your life, is available quickly and not stuck in an approval backlog. This short-sighted partisan bill passed by the House today would prevent patients from accessing future life-saving medicine and has no chance of becoming law. The Council of Economic Advisorsrecently estimatedthat H.R. 3 could lead to as many as 100 fewer drugs entering the market over the next decade, reducing population health and longevity. The Congressional Budget Office had similar estimates on reductions in innovation. Of the 270 drugs that have come to market since 2011, over 90 percent are available to patients in America compared to 8 percent in China, 33 percent in Australia, 48 percent in Canada, and 67 percent in the United Kingdom. Both sides of the aisle had been working together on various proposals to bring more competition and more affordable prescription drugs to market. However, efforts were stalled by partisan politics and the introduction of Speaker Pelosi's H.R. 3. Dr. Marshall participated in aspecial orderWednesday evening advocating for his colleagues across the aisle to rejoin efforts on delivering good, bipartisan policies for patients in Kansas and across the country. Congress should recognize the need for strong, bipartisan solutions with staying power and one of them is H.R. 19, the Lower Costs, More Cures Act,said Rep. MarshallThis bill, crafted alongside our Democratic colleagues, contains over 40 bipartisan proposals that would lower out-of-pocket costs, protect access to new medicines and cures, strengthen transparency, and champion competition. If we work together, we can lower drug costs without destroying innovation.\nH.R. 19, the Lower Costs, More Cures Act:\n Lowers the cost of prescription drugs by promoting low-cost options for patients and curbing the gaming of the system by drug companies, all the while encouraging innovation of groundbreaking new cures;\n\tFor the first time, places a cap on seniors' out-of-pocket drug costs and allows them to manage their annual out-of-pocket spending;\n\tMakes insulin more affordable;\n\tIncreases transparency and removes uncertainty at the pharmacy counter;\n\tCuts the cost of drug administration, including cancer treatment, for Medicare beneficiaries by as much as 50 percent;\n\tStops subsidizing other developed countries' health care through stronger trade agreements with real enforcement mechanisms; and\n\tIncludes policy that has bipartisan, bicameral support and could be signed into law today.\n To learn more about H.R. 19, the Lower Costs, More Cures Act, clickhere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://watkins.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-steve-watkins-signs-conference-report-national-defense", "Congressman Steve Watkins Signs Conference Report on National Defense Authorization Act", "2019-12-12", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Steven Watkins", "W000824", "watkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Contact:Dylan.Jones@mail.house.gov\n\nFor Immediate Release:\nDecember 12, 2019\n\nCongressman Steve Watkins Signs Conference Report on National Defense Authorization Act\n\nWashington, D.C. On December 9th, Congressman Steve Watkins (KS-02) signed the Conference Report on the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the full House on Wednesday. The NDAA establishes policy and authorizes funding for our nation's defense. Congressman Watkins was selected by House Republican Leadership to serve as the House Veterans' Affairs Committee conferee for the NDAA Conference Committee. The Conference Committee is tasked with resolving differences between the House and Senate versions of the NDAA and providing an agreement to both chambers in the form of a conference report. If the full House and Senate each agree to the conference report, the NDAA is sent to the President to be signed into law.\n\nCongressman SteveWatkinsissued the following statement:\nAs a conferee, ensuring veterans' issues were addressed and continuing the modernization of our military to compete with threats from Russia, Iran, and China were top priorities of mine. This year's NDAA delivers on President Trump's key promises for robust defense spending, support for our veterans, the largest pay-raise for our troops in a decade, and the much anticipated Space Force. I am glad that President Trump and the Conference Committee are able to deliver a win for our military and veterans heading into the holiday. \n\nIn case you missed it, Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Ranking Member Dr. Phil Roe (R-Tenn) released the following statements upon the selection of Rep. Watkins as a conferee on the Conference Committee. \n\nLeader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)issued the following statement:\nI am glad to have Steve on this year's list of conferees. Though he is new to Congress, he has already served this nation for several years as a West Point cadet and combat veteran in Afghanistan. He is fully committed to strengthening our national defense and has demonstrated a clear desire to improve the lives of veterans. I have no doubt that he will work hard to ensure that the needs of our troops come first.\n\nCommittee on Veterans' Affairs Ranking Member Dr. Phil Roe (R-Tenn)issued the following statement:\nI congratulate my friend and fellow Veterans' Affairs Committee Member, Rep. Steve Watkins, on being selected as a conferee for the House-Senate Conference Committee for the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). As a veteran himself, Steve has been a strong voice on the Committee on behalf of his fellow veterans and I am confident that he will provide an important and unique perspective during these discussions, which are vital to the continued security of our nation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-statement-on-usda-veterinary-services-grant-program", "Sen. Moran Statement on USDA Veterinary Services Grant Program", "2019-12-12", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies  released the following statement on the announcement of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Veterinary Services Grant Program (VSGP) awards:\r\nI was pleased to see Kansans receive several grants from the USDA Veterinary Services Grant Program, which I made a priority to fund through my role on the Appropriations Committee. Ensuring veterinary services in rural areas is necessary for proper animal care and public safety, and I look forward to seeing the ways these grants work in Kansas to help relieve service shortages.\r\nKansas received three VSGP awards:\r\n\r\n \r\nFLYIN'3 Veterinary Service, Inc., Eureka: $125,000 to replace equipment and repair building that was hit by an F3 tornado in June 2018.\r\nSolomon Valley Veterinary Hospital, Beloit: $125,000 to hire two additional vets and purchase mobile equipment that will allow for the expansion of the clinic's service area.\r\nKansas State University: $111,000 for a summer program for aspiring rural vets.\r\n \r\nAdditional information regarding the awards:\r\n \r\nToday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) announced 16 Veterinary Service Grants Program (VSGP) awards, nine Education, Extension and Training grants and seven Rural Practice Enhancement grants to help mitigate veterinary service shortages in the United States.This program is designed to support education and extension activities that will enable veterinarians, veterinary students, and veterinary technicians gain specialized skills and practices.The Agricultural Act of 2014 authorized the establishment of the VSGP as a companion to the Veterinary Medical Loan Repayment Program to incentivize service in veterinarian shortage situations. Ultimately, VSGP will bolster the capacity of private veterinary practitioners to provide food animal veterinary services in rural veterinarian shortage locations.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/senators-roberts-braun-sinema-introduce-tax-payment-clarification-act", "Senators Roberts, Braun, Sinema Introduce Tax Payment Clarification Act", "2019-12-12", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS), Mike Braun (R-IN), andKyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) introduced theTax Payment Clarification Act to fixthe tax code in order to ensure the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) follows congressional intent regarding structured payments of corporate tax liabilities.\r\nTaxpayers should not be punished for attempting to follow the law,said Senator Roberts.This legislation would allow the provision of the tax code to function as Congress intended, would return to businesses much-needed cash flow and would likely spur economic growth.\r\nThrough an unintended loophole, Indiana's Zimmer Biomet and other companies are being denied access to money that they overpaid to the IRS and this legislation fixes that problem,saidSenator Braun.As an former Main Street entrepreneur, I know firsthand that this legislation will help small businessescreate more jobs and grow our economy.\r\nArizona businesses deserve a tax code thatis straightforward, fair, and supports job growth. Our bipartisan legislation ensures Arizona businesses can plan for the future and create more jobs for hard-working Arizonans, saidSenator Sinema.\r\nBACKGROUND\r\nIn 2018, at least 115 businesses that overpaid their regular income tax liability were denied their expected refunds if they had an outstanding section 965 transition tax liability, notwithstanding that such taxpayers had elected to pay in installments and the first installment had been satisfied. The inability to receive a refund has affected the near-term cash flow of these companies and hindered their ability to expand operations, hire workers, and make investments. Businesses were provided an option to pay their section 965 transition tax in installments over an eight-year period, and this bill addresses a technical issue that has prevented a credit or refund of regular income tax overpayments in the initial year in which the transition tax applies.\r\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-stands-war-fighters-votes-troop-pay-raise", "Marshall stands with war fighters, votes for troop pay raise", "2019-12-11", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the House approved the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act for 2020, allocating $738 billion in funding for our military, and giving troops their largest and well-deserved pay raise in a decade. The NDAA will now go to President Trump's desk for his signature.\n \n\tAs the representative of the First Infantry Division and Fort Riley, our war fighters are always top of mind,said Dr. Marshall.One of the most important jobs we have in Congress is to provide for our military and enable our troops to do their jobs  keeping us safe.This legislation provides the resources to continue to maintain readiness, advance modernization of the nuclear triad, develop emerging technologies, enhance missile defense, and confront our adversaries. It also establishes the United States Space Force as the sixth branch of the military, delivering on another promise made by President Trump.\n \nIn addition to the 3.1 percent pay raise for our troops, it repeals the harmful widows tax, which costs roughly 65,000 families of fallen service members tens of thousands of dollars in lost benefit payments each year.\n \n\tFor the families of service members who have fallen in combat, the loss of their loved one must be unbearable,said Dr. Marshall.Getting rid of the widows tax,' which causes financial hardship at a time when families are grieving, is long overdue, but I'm glad we could deliver this for our Gold Star families.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/senate-commerce-committee-advances-moran-bill-to-support-air-traffic-controllers", "Senate Commerce Committee Advances Moran Bill to Support Air Traffic Controllers: Sen. Morans bill would eliminate hiring barrier for eight contract towers in Kansas", "2019-12-11", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation  today applauded the Senate Commerce Committee's vote to advance the Continuity for Operators with Necessary Training Required for ATC Contract Towers (CONTRACT) Act of 2019.\r\nThe CONTRACT Act removes an unnecessary barrier in the hiring pipeline for contract towers, including the eight located in Kansas, and allows highly-skilled, experienced controllers to continue their careers in the aviation industry, said Sen. Moran. I am pleased the Commerce Committee voted to advance the CONTRACT Act, and I urge the full Senate to quickly pass this sensible legislation.\r\nThe bipartisan CONTRACT Act would remove the disincentive for retired FAA air traffic controllers to work at federal contract towers. Under current law, FAA air traffic controllers must retire by age 56. Because this is earlier than the normal retirement age, controllers are included as a \"special group\" under the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) and contribute an additional 0.5 percent of their annual salary into a special retirement annuity account. In return, they receive a FERS annuity payment during the mandatory retirement period between 56 and the social security minimum age of 62. The retired controller's special annuity payment is incrementally reduced if they earn more than the social security earnings limit of $17,640 (2019 tax year) annually. This annuity offset penalty results in many retired FAA controllers making the decision not to work as federal contract tower air traffic controllers.\r\nItems to note:\r\n \r\nSens. Moran, Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) introduced the CONTRACT Act on November 20, 2019.\r\nThere are 256 air traffic control facilities participating in the FAA's Federal Contract Tower Program, including Garden City, Hutchinson, Manhattan, Salina and two locations in Olathe and Topeka.\r\nThe U.S. Contract Tower Association (USCTA), the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) sent a letter of support for this legislation.\r\nIn October 2018, a number of Sen. Moran-led provisions relating to contract towers were included in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018.\r\nFull text of the CONTRACT Act can be found here.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sens-moran-cassidy-jones-shaheen-introduce-bill-to-allow-increased-utilization-of-hsas", "Sens. Moran, Cassidy, Jones, Shaheen Introduce Bill to Allow Increased Utilization of HSAs", "2019-12-11", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies  joined U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) to introduce the Primary Care Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation to lower the cost of healthcare and expand patients' access to their primary care providers.\r\nThe Primary Care Enhancement Act will improve choice for patients and will give individuals and families the option to choose how to spend their healthcare savings,said Sen. Moran.Health savings accounts can be utilized on a wider scale, and this bill is a step in the right direction towards putting patients in charge of their own healthcare. As direct primary care options continue to grow, it is important to ensure these services are an allowable expense for HSAs.\r\nHealth savings accounts anddirectprimarycareare some of the best ways to give patients the power and let them take back control of their family's healthcaredecisions, said Sen. Cassidy. This law builds on the administration's action and allows a patient to use their money for the doctor they want.\r\nWe need to do everything we can to improve access to quality, affordable health care, said Sen. Jones. Direct Primary Care models are growing in Alabama and across the country as a way to improve health outcomes and lower health care costs for families. This bill will help families save money on health care by clarifying that patients can use their Health Savings Accounts to pay for direct primary care fees.\r\nCongress needs to work across the aisle to expand access to affordable, quality health care. This bill is a reflection of that effort and demonstrates the common ground we share and the progress we can make by working together,said Sen. Shaheen. The Primary Care Enhancement Act expands access to high quality primary care by allowing individuals to enroll in Direct Primary Care Arrangements in addition to comprehensive health plans, without having to forfeit eligibility for making Health Savings Account contributions. This is common sense, bipartisan legislation to improve health care and I urge Leader McConnell to hold a vote on this bill as soon as possible.\r\nThe Direct Primary Care (DPC) model encourages patients to develop personal relationships with their primary care physician, including extending access to care beyond office visits and business hours and through telemedicine. It focuses on prevention and primary care, relying less on specialist and hospital referrals. It is a growing model used by more than 1,000 practices across 48 states and the District of Columbia.\r\nDPC models replace copays and deductibles with flat, affordable monthly fees. Current law makes DPC incompatible with health savings accounts (HSAs) paired with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs).\r\nThe bill clarifies federal law to state DPC is eligible for HSA contributions and that pre-tax HSA funds may be used to pay DPC fees.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/senate-advances-roberts-peters-thune-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-representation-for-agriculture-forestry-and-rural-sectors-on-faa-s-drone-policy-board", "Senate Advances Roberts, Peters, Thune, Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Representation for Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Sectors on FAAs Drone Policy Board", "2019-12-11", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Senators Pat Roberts (R-KS), Gary Peters (D-MI), and John Thune (R-SD) today applauded Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation approval of bipartisan legislation they introduced last month to ensure federal drone policy includes representation for agriculture, forestry, and rural America. The Drone Advisory Committee for the 21st Century Act would also ensure that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides representation on the Drone Advisory Committee (DAC) for local government officials, including those from county and tribal governments.\r\nWith drones becoming a part of everyday life for farmers and ranchers in not only Kansas, but throughout the entire country, I am pleased to see this bipartisan legislation being advanced in the Senate, said Sen. Roberts. This bill will ensure rural Americans are included in the decision making process when it comes to drone policies that will impact their businesses.\r\nAs more Michigan businesses and farmers incorporate drones into their everyday operations, it is critical that they have a seat at the table when decisions impacting them are being made, said Senator Peters. This bipartisan measure will ensure that agriculture, forestry and rural voices have a say when new rules are established around these new technologies. I am pleased that the Senate is advancing this bipartisan effort, and I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that this commonsense legislation becomes law.\r\nThis bipartisan legislation, which promotes the consideration of agriculture and forestry applications in the development of future drone policy, cleared an important Senate hurdle today, said Thune. I urge my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to work together to get this legislation past the finish line to ensure our farmers and ranchers can fully utilize the unique applications of drone technology in their fields.\r\nAs the drone industry grows at a rapid rate, it is clear intergovernmental collaboration and solutions are needed to protect the safety and privacy of our residents, said Matthew Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties. Across the country, counties are using this new technology for critical functions, including emergency response, infrastructure inspection, search and rescue, and mapping. We applaud the bipartisan efforts of Senators Peters, Thune and Roberts to ensure local governments are represented on the Federal Aviation Administration's Drone Advisory Committee. County leaders must be at the table, not just as stakeholders, but as co-regulators.\r\nThe Drone Advisory Committee for the 21st Century Act would encourage public participation in the nomination process to increase broader user representation on the DAC, and would impose transparency requirements to ensure that the DAC's work becomes part of the public record.\r\nThe legislation has the support of a number of organizations, including the Rural & Agriculture Council of America, American Forest Foundation, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, National Association of Corn Growers, United Egg Producers, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, American Dairy Coalition, National Association of Counties.\r\n\r\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2190", "Rep. Estes Releases Statement on US-Mexico-Canada Agreement", "2019-12-10", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-KS) released the following statement on the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).\"Today's agreement on USMCA is great news for our country which is far overdue,\" said Rep. Estes. \"President Trump has delivered on another promise and crafted a free and fair trade deal that will create jobs, boost GDP and worker wages, protect digital trade, and open new markets across North America for our farmers, ranchers and manufacturers. I applaud the leadership of the president and Ambassador Lighthizer, as well as my colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee and the Republican USMCA Whip Team for our efforts to bring this trade deal to a vote. While Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats have stalled a vote on USMCA for more than a year, it is now time to pass USMCA without further delay.\" Trade with Canada and Mexico reached $1.4 trillion in 2018 and currently supports 12 million jobs in the U.S., including 110,000 jobs in Kansas. The USMCA is expected to generate over $68 billion in new economic activity and create at least 176,000 new jobs. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2191", "Rep. Estes Releases Statement on Articles of Impeachment", "2019-12-10", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-KS) released the following statement after Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats announced two articles of impeachment today.\"House Democrats have wanted to draft articles of impeachment since the day President Trump was sworn-in and today filled in the blanks with unfounded accusations of abuse of power and obstruction. Despite a lack of evidence, an unfair process and no bipartisan support, House Democrats have barreled toward impeachment, ignoring or delaying key priorities along the way. While Speaker Pelosi may want to use measures like passing the USMCA to distract the American people, the fact remains that House Democrats are determined to overturn the 2016 election not based on evidence, but on their disdain for President Trump. I do not support these articles and hope many of my colleagues across the aisle will buck their party bosses and help us get back to work for the American people.\" Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-applauds-usmca-agreement", "Rep. Marshall applauds USMCA agreement", "2019-12-10", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "After more than a year of senseless delay, the United States, Mexico, and Canada have announced an agreement on the United States Mexico and Canada Trade Agreement. Following the announcement, Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., issued the following statement:\n \n\tTwo years ago, I traveled to Mexico to negotiate on behalf of agriculture, because implementing this deal is so important to finally delivering a level playing field for Kansas farmers and producers.For the last year, passing USMCA has been my number one legislative priority.After sitting on Nancy Pelosi's desk for an entire year,President Trump and Congress will finally be able to deliver on this huge promise to the American people,said Dr. Marshall.USMCA means thousands of new jobs for Kansans and hundreds of millions of dollars in crucial Kansas exports.I want to applaud all the agriculture and manufacturing stakeholders that have fought beside us to get USMCA to the finish line.\n \nYesterday, Rep. Marshall joined nearly 160 House colleagues in sending a letter to Speaker Pelosi calling for the USMCA's immediate passage. Read the letterHERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://watkins.house.gov/media/press-releases/usmca-deal-done-rep-watkins-ready-whip", "USMCA Deal Done--Rep. Watkins Ready to Whip", "2019-12-10", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Steven Watkins", "W000824", "watkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Contact:Dylan.Jones@mail.house.gov\n\nFor Immediate Release:\nDecember 10, 2019\n\nUSMCA Deal DoneRep. Watkins Ready to Whip\n\nWashington, D.C.Rep. Steve Watkins (KS-02) issued the following statement upon the announcement of an official agreement on USMCA, a deal to modernize trade between the United States' and Kansas' two largest trading partners, Canada and Mexico: \nToday's announcement is a win for Kansas farmers, workers, and families. I have been calling on Speaker Pelosi to bring USMCA to a vote for months. As the first Freshman lawmaker on Whip Scalise's USMCA Whip Team, I stand ready to whip my colleagues for an Aye vote and deliver a win for Kansas.\n\nRepublican Whip Steve Scalise issued the following statement: \nAs part of our USMCA Whip Team, Steve played an integral part in this USMCA negotiation process. This trade deal will be a major boost for our economy and is great news for American workers and Kansan families. I want to thank Steve for his assistance and hard work over the past months. Now let's get USMCA over the finish line!\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-applauds-agreement-reached-on-usmca", "Sen. Moran Applauds Agreement Reached on USMCA", "2019-12-10", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies and member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies  released the following statement on the agreement reached between the White House and Congress regarding the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):\r\nI have long advocated for movement on USMCA, and I applaud the White House and Congress for reaching an agreement today and advancing this deal. Canada and Mexico are Kansas' top two export markets, and over the last two years, I have heard directly from Kansans how vital a modern trade deal like USMCA would be for our farmers, ranchers and manufacturers to compete and succeed in the 21st Century economy. Now is the time to get USMCA across the finish line, and I urge the House to quickly bring USMCA up for a vote.\r\nLast week, Sen. Moran spoke on the Senate floor regarding the importance of passing UMSCA. Click here to watch Sen. Moran's remarks.\r\nTimeline of Sen. Moran's engagement regarding a modernized trade agreement:\r\n \r\nNovember 15, 2017: Sen. Moran sends open letter to U.S. agricultural organizations regarding the threat of NAFTA withdrawal and urged them to advocate for sound trade policy.\r\nDecember 6, 2017: Sen. Moran met with Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross regarding NAFTA negotiations.\r\nJanuary 7, 2018 and January 13, 2019: Sen. Moran spoke at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention about the importance of trade and modernizing NAFTA.\r\nJanuary 30, 2018: Sen. Moran sent a letter to President Trump highlighting how NAFTA benefits the United States and outlining how the agreement can be improved.\r\nFebruary 1, 2018: Spoke at annual National Cattlemen's Beef Association conference about importance of trade and modernizing NAFTA.\r\nApril 12, 2018: Sen. Moran discussed the importance of trade and NAFTA during an Agriculture and Trade Roundtable at the White House with President Trump.\r\nMay 23, 2018: Sen. Moran sent a letter urging the administration to work closely with members of Congress to make certain a renegotiated NAFTA has the congressional support necessary to be enacted into law.\r\nJuly 26, 2018: Sen. Moran spoke on the Senate floor regarding the importance of trade to Kansas, including with Canada and Mexico\r\nAugust 28, 2018: Sen. Moran sent a letter urging President Trump to ensure Canada was part of trilateral deal following the U.S. and Mexico reaching a preliminary agreement on a revamped NAFTA.\r\nOctober 1, 2018: Sen. Moran released a statement after the United States, Canada and Mexico announced they have reached a trilateral deal regarding the future of NAFTA.\r\nJanuary 18, 2019: Sen. Moran authored an op-ed in The Garden City Telegram regarding the importance of trade agreements and passing the USMCA.\r\nApril 18, 2019: Sen. Moran released a statement on the report accessing the likely impact of USMCA by the International Trade Commission.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/senator-roberts-statement-on-usmca", "Senator Roberts Statement on USMCA", "2019-12-10", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Releases \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today released the following statement regarding the announcement of a deal on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):\r\nI am glad to see long awaited action on consideration of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). USMCA is critical for the success of our farmers, ranchers, producers and manufacturers who rely on trade to grow their businesses and create more jobs. I look forward to reviewing the final text of the agreement and working with my colleagues in the Senate to finalize this trade agreement, said Sen. Roberts.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/marshall-sends-letter-pelosi-urging-usmca-vote", "Marshall sends letter to Pelosi urging USMCA vote", "2019-12-09", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Monday, December 9, 2019, Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., joined nearly 160 of his colleagues in the House in sending a letter, led by House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Michael Conaway, to Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging immediate consideration and passage of the USMCA trade deal. The text of the letter follows:\n\tDear Speaker Pelosi:\n\tThe undersigned Republican Members strongly urge you to ensure that the House of Representatives takes up and passes the U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) trade agreement this year.\n\tWith just two weeks remaining, the House has so far squandered the first session of the 116th Congress.\n\tRather than working together to pass bipartisan measures that could be signed into law, House Democrats have instead obsessed over a partisan impeachment process of which the sole purpose is to overturn the decision of voters in the 2016 election. The little remaining time has largely been consumed by passing partisan messaging bills that have no chance of enactment, even in the case where common ground could easily have been found.\n\tThankfully, it is not too late for House Democrats to do the right thing. For starters, the House should finally stop dithering on USMCA and pass this critically important trade agreement.\n\tNearly every agriculture group in America has called on Congress to pass USMCA, which significantly improves trade relations with our two largest trading partners that together purchase about one-third of all U.S. agricultural exports. Under USMCA, U.S. agricultural exports alone are expected to increase by more than $2 billion annually, helping to build on the 325,000 American jobs that are already reliant on our nation's exports to Mexico and Canada.\n\tSignificant new market access for U.S. dairy, chicken, eggs, and turkey producers is expected under the agreement while strides are also made in favor of our wheat farmers. These and other improvements will greatly benefit U.S. farmers and ranchers who are struggling under the weight of a recession that began in late 2014.\n\tExpanding U.S. agriculture exports through truly free and fair trade agreements will help put American agriculture back on its feet.\n\tMexico is already our corn growers' number one customer, while Canada and Mexico buy close to half of our pork products. And beef sales to our immediate neighbors are estimated to add about $70 per head to the bottom line of U.S. cattlemen. Under USMCA, the United States has a real opportunity to expand on these successes at a time when U.S. farmers and ranchers and rural America need help the most.\n\tUSMCA already contains the strongest labor provisions of any trade agreement considered by the U.S. to date, and the Trump Administration has worked diligently and in good faith to address these issues because the President is absolutely focused on ensuring a level playing field for all U.S. workers.\n\tPassing USMCA is a chance for the House to chalk up one critically important victory for the American people, and we urge you to seize this opportunity.\n\tSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-continues-push-vote-usmca", "Rep. Marshall Continues Push for Vote on USMCA", "2019-12-09", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., on Monday again continued his push to move on from the impeachment circus and ratify the United States Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) trade agreement and deliver thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of economic impact to Kansas.\nNearly one third of all American agricultural exports go to Canada and Mexico and the countries are also the top two export markets for America's small and mid-sized businesses.\nIn a speech on the House floor, Rep. Marshall called for Speaker Pelosi to do real legislative work and bring the USMCA trade deal for consideration and passage. The historic agreement brings trade with Canada and Mexico into the 21stCentury and was signed by all three countries on November 30, 2018, with implementation of the deal pending ratification by each country. Mexico has signed the agreement and Canada will ratify upon the U.S.'s ratification.\n \n\tWe are on the verge of passing the USMCA trade deal, a deal that will mean millions of dollars in new market opportunities for Kansas agriculture goods, new customs and trade rules for our small businesses, and thousands of new jobs that will allow more goods and materials to be manufactured in the U.S.,Rep. Marshall said. With just two weeks remaining, the House has so far squandered the first session of the 116th Congress . . . The House has a chance to secure a victory for the American people. Let's deliver a win for our economy and pass USMCA now.\n \nView Rep. Marshall's entire floor speech on USMCAHERE.\nRep. Marshall also joined nearly 160 House colleagues in sending a letter to Speaker Pelosi calling for the USMCA's passage. The Speaker has failed to act on the legislation, instead spending time and resources on partisan issues. The letter included the following text:\n \n\tNearly every agriculture group in America has called on Congress to pass USMCA, which significantly improves trade relations with our two largest trading partners that together purchase about one-third of all U.S. agricultural exports. . .. Passing USMCA is a chance for the House to chalk up one critically important victory for the American people, and we urge you to seize this opportunity.\n \nYou can read the entire letterHERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen-moran-visits-u-s-mexico-border", "Sen. Moran Visits U.S.-Mexico Border", "2019-12-09", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies  visited the U.S.-Mexico Border in Rio Rico, Ariz. for a tour and briefing by U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).\r\nHow successful we are in securing our borders has significant consequences in the lives of Americans and Kansans, said Sen. Moran. I witnessed first-hand the efforts of our law enforcement to interdict drugs and stop crime at our southern border, and the need for more resources to keep our nation safe. I have long recognized our immigration system is broken, and I look forward to returning to work in Washington with first-hand knowledge of our border crisis. Thank you to all the law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to protect our borders. A special thanks to U.S. Border Patrol Acting Patrol Agent in Charge Agent Kevin Hecht and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Apolonio Polo Ruiz for hosting me at the Arizona-Mexico border.\r\nItems to Note:\r\n \r\nIn Arizona, Sen. Moran toured the U.S.-Mexico border with the U.S. Border Patrol and received an Operations and Drug Threat Briefing from DEA.\r\nIn January, Sens. Moran and Rob Portman (R-Ohio) introduced legislation that would establish a $25 billion trust fund to enhance U.S. border security. The legislation would also codify protections for those individuals who, through no fault of their own, entered the United States illegally as children and are currently covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.\r\nIn June, Sen. Moran voted to advance the Senate Appropriations Committee's $4.6 billion border supplemental package to provide much-needed resources to our southern border.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/visiting-the-u-s-mexico-border", "Visiting the U.S.-Mexico Border", "2019-12-09", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hello,\r\nWelcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.\r\nVisiting the U.S.-Mexico Border\r\nThis week, I traveled to Rio Rico, Arizona to visit the U.S.-Mexico border for a tour led by U.S. Border Patrol and an Operations and Drug Threat briefing from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). During my visit, I witnessed first-hand the efforts of our law enforcement to interdict drugs and stop crime at our southern border, and the need for more resources to keep our nation safe.\r\n\r\nI have long recognized our immigration system is broken, and I look forward to returning to work in Washington with first-hand knowledge of our border crisis. Thank you to all the law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to protect our borders. A special thanks to U.S. Border Patrol Acting Patrol Agent in Charge Agent Kevin Hecht and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Apolonio Polo Ruiz for hosting me at the Arizona-Mexico border.\r\n\r\nIt is Time to Pass USMCA\r\nOn Tuesday, I spoke on the Senate floor regarding the importance of passing the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Canada and Mexico are Kansas' top two export markets and this trade agreement would provide certainty for farmers and ranchers while protecting the supply chain for Kansas manufacturers. I was able to highlight my time at the Kansas Farm Bureau townhall last week where farmers, ranchers and agriculture leaders expressed the importance of trade and the need to pass USMCA. I also noted USMCA's role in protecting the integrated North American supply chain critical to the many manufacturers  aerospace, aviation, automobile, farm equipment and numerous others  that call Kansas home. Twenty-five percent of the manufacturers in our state, mostly small- to medium-sized businesses, export to Canada and Mexico. USMCA was signed over a year ago, and it is time for the House to pass this important agreement.\r\n\r\nQuestioning Panel on Consumer Data Privacy\r\nOn Wednesday, as a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, I participated in a hearing with a panel of industry stakeholders and advocates to discuss legislative proposals to protect consumer data privacy. We discussed a variety of legislative proposals put forward to address issues related to the privacy and security of consumers' personal information.As the Chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection with jurisdiction over the Federal Trade Commission, I have held hearings, briefings, and met with multiple subject matter experts and stakeholders in the interest of developing a federal privacy framework that will provide strong protections for consumers nationwide, including bolstering the FTC's existing enforcement authorities and resources.I look forward to continue working with my colleagues on the committee towards enacting a bipartisan federal privacy bill that will offer Kansans and all Americans the privacy assurances they deserve.\r\n\r\nSupporting the Senate Hunger Caucus Food Drive\r\nAs co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, I helped host a Senate Holiday Food Drive over the past weeks. Senate offices in Washington, D.C. have collected food for needy families, which will be given to the Capital Area Food Bank at the conclusion of the drive this week. I am thankful for the food my office collected to help hungry families this Christmas season. Special thanks to my staff member Judd Gardner for his leadership on this year's drive.\r\nThis is the time of year to come together as a community and help those less fortunate than ourselves, and food drives are a great way to help those in need. In 2018, it's estimated that more than 37 million people in the U.S. were food insecure, including 371 thousand Kansans. I appreciate the organizations in Kansas that are helping to end hunger in our state, including Harvesters Food Bank and the Kansas Food Bank, which feeds thousands of families across Kansas.\r\n\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-introduces-res-commending-food-peace-program", "Marshall introduces res. commending Food for Peace program", "2019-12-06", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Yesterday, Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., introduced with Reps. Jim Costa (D-CA), David Rouzer (R-NC), Sanford Bishop (D-OH), and Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), a resolution commending the federal Food for Peace program for its impact on global hunger relief efforts and urging for further funding for the program. Following the introduction, Congressman Marshall issued the following statement:\n \n\tThe Food for Peace program has served as a vital program reducing hunger and improving global food security across the world,said Dr. Marshall. Nutrition is a key driver of well-being. The program not only helps families, women, and children in conflict areas and areas affected by natural disasters, but italso helps Kansan farmers reach more markets for the high quality products they produce. As a Kansan, I'm humbled to continue to carry the torch that President Dwight Eisenhower once held when he originally signed this program into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-joins-bipartisan-group-reintroduce-critical-legislation-ensuring", "Marshall Joins Bipartisan Group to Reintroduce Critical Legislation Ensuring Patient Access to Breakthrough Medical Products", "2019-12-06", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D., (R-KS) joined Reps. Suzan DelBene (D-WA), JackieWalorski(R-IN), Tony Crdenas (D-CA), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and Terri Sewell (D-AL) to reintroduce theEnsuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act of 2019. This bill would guarantee Medicare beneficiaries access to cutting-edge medical innovation by streamlining the coverage determination process and improving the availability of breakthrough devices for patients.\nIt is critical that Medicare beneficiaries receive timely access to innovative therapies that bring positive health outcomes,said Dr. Marshall. This bipartisan bill encourages the development of new medical devices to treat life-threatening illnesses by bridging the coverage gap so our seniors can actually access them. This is a common-sense initiative and I'm pleased to join this bipartisan group in working to bring innovative treatments and cures to America's seniors.\nCurrently, Medicare does not automatically cover the latest advances in medical technology, even when the products are approved through the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) breakthrough pathway process. Medicare's coverage determination forFDA approved productscan take up to three years, delaying vital treatments to millions of seniors. This bipartisan legislation would require Medicare to temporarily cover all breakthrough products approved through the FDA's breakthrough pathway for a three-year period, during which the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services must make a permanent coverage determination. This allows patients to receive the most cutting-edge, innovative care as soon as it comes to market.\nFor a medicalproductto earn the FDA's breakthrough designationitmust meet the following criteria:\n Provide more effective treatment or diagnosis of life-threatening or irreversibly debilitating diseases or conditions;\n\tHas no approved alternatives;\n\tOffers significant advantages over existing approved alternatives; or\n\tAvailability is in the best interest of patients.\n TheEnsuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act of 2019also provides temporary coverage for certain breakthrough devices that did not exist or were not contemplated when Medicare was first created and do not have a Medicare benefit category. Since last Congress, the FDA has granted breakthrough status to products that do not have a benefit category in Medicare, and therefore no pathway or coverage for Medicare patients. For example, software or digital products, such as Prescription Digital Therapeutics are not eligible for Medicare coverage because today there is no appropriatebenefit category. The billwould allow the Department of Health and Human Services the flexibility to make coverage determinations for products that have FDA breakthrough status but no benefit category.\nThis hurry-up-and-wait situation makes no sense. Seniors shouldn'thave to wait unnecessarily to access medical products that can change or even save their lives,said Rep. DelBene. Guaranteeing coverage ofbreakthrough technologiesand opening the door to coverage of new digital-based products encouragesinvestment in the industry,facilitatinginnovation andfuture advancements.\nWe need to remove the unnecessary barriers preventing seniors from getting the cutting-edge medical products they need, including medical devices,said Rep. Walorski. The Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act will encourage life-saving medical innovation and expand treatment options covered by Medicare. These important reforms will open new doors for future innovative therapies and cures that will improve quality of life for seniors.\nIt's wrong that our seniors are forced to wait years for access to critical medical technologies,said Rep. Crdenas. This bill cuts the time Medicare enrollees must wait to access revolutionary medical technology by improving the determination process for patients. This is a smart, bipartisan solution to a problem that affects millions of seniors across the United States.\nThis legislation will help millions of seniors on Medicare by ensuring more timely access to the treatments they need,said Rep. Bilirakis. Additionally, there are more than 600 medical device companies in our state working to develop innovative and effective products. During a roundtable discussion in my district, I heard from many of these businesses about how these lengthy and unnecessary Medicare coverage delays create a significant barrier in bringing new products to market. This bill is about connecting patients with important devices and technologies more quickly. Additionally, it is about encouraging innovation rather than stifling it. Government has to get out of the way and streamline the payment process for effective new devices that can ultimately help improve and save lives.\nAll Americans deserve access to life-saving, breakthrough therapies and devices,said Rep. Sewell. This bill takes a critical step in the right direction to ensure that the review and approval process for breakthrough therapies doesn't inhibit patient access to innovative and effective technologies as they come to market.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/sen", "Sen. Moran Hosts VA Secretary Wilkie in Kansas", "2019-12-05", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs hosted Robert Wilkie, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, in Topeka and Kansas City to highlight the innovative work taking place at Kansas VA Medical Centers and speak directly with Kansas veterans, caregivers and advocates.\r\nShowing Secretary Wilkie around Kansas allowed him to learn about the unique challenges facing rural veterans, said Sen. Moran. Throughout the visit, topics from the implementation of the VA MISSION Act to legislation I introduced to improve mental health care and increase suicide prevention programs within communities were discussed.\r\nSecretary Wilkie and Sen. Moran started their visit in Topeka at the Colmery-O'Neil VA Medical Center.\r\nThank you to the Kansas VA leaders Dr. William Patterson, Director Rudy Klopfer, Director Rick Ament, Director David Isaacks, and Director Donna Meyer-Hickel for joining us from across the state, and for all the work you do on behalf of veterans, continued Sen. Moran. During our time at the facility, we had important conversations about how we can support our nation's heroes by constantly improving the VA healthcare system. The Topeka VAMC's satisfaction rates are among the highest in the country, and it was a pleasure to highlight the hardworking Kansans that make this possible for our nation's heroes.\r\nSen. Moran and Secretary Wilkie also traveled to Kansas City and met with veterans and advocates, answering questions about our work to improve the VA and provide veterans with the care and support they deserve.\r\nTogether, we're working hard to create a 21st century VA that is worthy of the service and sacrifice of our heroes, continued Sen. Moran.\r\nTo hear more about the visit from Sen. Moran, watch the video regarding the visit here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/roberts-baldwin-rounds-tester-and-capito-introduce-reform-to-provide-affordable-housing-for-volunteer-firefighters-and-first-responders", "Roberts, Baldwin, Rounds, Tester and Capito Introduce Reform to Provide Affordable Housing for Volunteer Firefighters and First Responders", "2019-12-05", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Jon Tester (D-MT) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) today introduced bipartisan legislation to provide affordable housing opportunities for volunteer firefighters and first responders in order to help recruit and retain more volunteers, particularly in rural and under-served communities.\r\nAccording to the National Fire Protection Association's 2017 U.S. Fire Department Profile, 65 percent of firefighters nationwide are volunteers, and fire departments rely on these volunteers to help respond to a wide array of local emergencies. Recruiting and retaining volunteer firefighters is critical for thousands of communities, yet local volunteer fire departments, especially those serving small and rural communities, find it difficult to meet staffing needs and attract younger volunteers.\r\nThe Volunteer First Responder Housing Act would expand eligibility for qualified volunteer first responders to participate in certain federal housing assistance programs and provide a greater incentive for more volunteers to stay and continue to serve their communities.\r\nThe Volunteer First Responder Housing Act will help incentivize people in rural areas to volunteer for this critical service, said Senator Roberts. Many communities in Kansas are exclusively protected by volunteer first responders and it's critical we provide incentives like this to help recruit and retain these volunteers.\r\nFire departments in Wisconsin and throughout the nation rely heavily on volunteer firefighters and EMS first responders. We need to make sure that those who volunteer their time to serve have affordable housing in their community, said Senator Baldwin. For someone who wants to be a volunteer firefighter, or for someone who is currently is, this bipartisan legislation would make owning a home more affordable and help with volunteer firefighter recruitment and retention.\r\nExpanding the eligibility for qualified volunteer emergency responders to participate in federal housing assistance programs has a number of benefits, said Senator Rounds. It encourages volunteering, provides agencies with a recruitment and retention tool, makes it easier for volunteer responders to remain living in their communities, and is a great way to say thank you' for their service. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation to support our volunteer emergency responders.\r\nVolunteer first responders risk their lives to keep our families safe and our communities secure  with no compensation for their efforts, said Senator Tester. This bill will make recruiting volunteers easier, and will help the men and women who respond to trouble afford to live in the communities they so bravely serve.\r\nHundreds of rural communities across West Virginia rely on volunteer firefighters and EMS professionals, Senator Capito said. This bill works to address the staffing and retention issues many stations face by providing housing incentives. The goal is to encourage these local heroes to continue their brave work in their communities, and this bill will help accomplish that.\r\nThis legislation makes it possible for more volunteer emergency responders to participate in the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development. This existing program assists approved lenders in providing loans to low- and moderate- income households to build, rehabilitate or improve a home in eligible rural areas. The bill will allow volunteers to participate in the loan program even if their income exceeds the maximum allowable income level by up to $18,000.\r\nIt also makes volunteer emergency responders eligible to participate in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program. This existing program gives law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians a 50 percent discount from the list price of a home located in a revitalization area.\r\nThe Volunteer First Responder Housing Act is supported by National Volunteer Fire Council, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Housing Assistance Council, National Rural Housing Coalition, National Association of Towns and Townships and National Association of Counties.\r\nLocal governments and first responders are on the front lines of protecting public health, safety and well-being, said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. Many counties, especially in rural areas, enlist volunteers to provide critical emergency services. We applaud this bipartisan effort to expand affordable housing opportunities for volunteer first responders and their families.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-applauds-final-usda-snap-rules", "Marshall Applauds Final USDA SNAP Rules", "2019-12-04", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - The USDA announced today its final rule to prevent the use of valuable nutrition resources on those that can and should be participating in the workforce. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was created as temporary resource for those most in need. Today's rule ensures that the resources remain in place for families,children and the elderlythat have fallen on hard times and truly need the help.\nPeople are at their best when they have a job and a purpose. The role of the federal government should be to aid those who need it most and empower individuals to achieve the American dream. This rule ensures that adults receive training and the job placement assistance they need to re-enter the workforce,said Dr. Marshall.While in Congress, I have worked to support various domestic and global nutrition programs including the school lunch program, Meals on Wheels, McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program, and community-based summer meal programs. These programs and more remain in place and available to help families and children in need. I applaud the work Secretary Perdue and the USDA has done to prioritize federal resources, maintain program integrity, and hold states accountable.\nTo learn more on the final rule,click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/gop-rep-roger-marshall-introduces-bill-rein-atf-firearm-approval-process", "GOP Rep. Roger Marshall introduces bill to rein in ATF firearm approval process", "2019-12-03", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced legislation Tuesday to streamline the ATF approval process for guns regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA) and completely remove short-barreled rifles from NFA purview.\nThe legislation is titledHome Defense and Competitive Shooting Act.\nWhile removing future short-barreled rifle sales from NFA purview, Marshall's bill would also require the destruction of existing registration of such rifles.\nIn a press release accompanying the legislation, Marshall said, Opponents of the Second Amendment want to use bureaucracy and regulations to obstruct citizens attempting to exercise their God-given right to keep and bear arms. The firearms addressed in this bill are commonly used for hunting, personal defense, and competitive shooting.\nHe added, Since I came to Congress, I have fought tooth and nail to stop attempts that would strip our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms. This bill will eliminate regulations designed not to protect Americans, but to deny them their Constitutional rights.\nNRA-ILA executive director Jason Ouimet commented on Marshall's efforts, saying, On behalf of the NRA's five million members, I thank Dr. Marshall for introducing necessary legislation that will restore Constitutional rights to law-abiding Americans to choose which firearms best suit their needs.\nOuimet continued, It's time Congress eliminates costly and unnecessary government regulations on short-barreled rifles, which are used in sport shooting, hunting, and are especially popular with women gun owners for self-defense.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-introduces-home-defense-and-competitive-shooting-act", "Marshall introduces Home Defense and Competitive Shooting Act", "2019-12-03", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., introduced in the House, The Home Defense and Competitive Shooting Act, which would streamline bureaucratic regulations, reduce lengthy Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) processing times, and remove unconstitutional finger print requirements and fees for certain rifles.\n \n\tOpponents of the Second Amendment want to use bureaucracy and regulations to obstruct citizens attempting to exercise their God-given right to keep and bear arms. The firearms addressed in this bill are commonly used for hunting, personal defense, and competitive shooting,\"said Dr. Marshall.\"Since I came to Congress, I have fought tooth and nail to stop attempts that would strip our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms. This bill will eliminate regulations designed not to protect Americans, but to deny them their Constitutional rights.\n \nShort-barreled rifles have been overregulated by the National Firearms Act since 1934. Under this bill, theywould be classified and regulated under the same rules as other semiautomatic rifles.\n \n\tThe introduction of this bill is yet another landmark towards restoring theconstitutionally-recognizedright to keep and bear armswithout infringement by federal regulations and whimsical rulemakingbyanti-gun D.C. bureaucrats,\"said Aidan Johnston, Director of Federal Affairs for Gun Owners of America.\"Gun Owners of America urges every member of the House of Representatives to cosponsor this bill.\n \n \n\tOn behalf of the NRA's five million members, I thank Dr. Marshall for introducing necessary legislation that will restore Constitutional rights to law-abiding Americans to choose which firearms best suit their needs,said Jason Ouimet, executive director, National Rifle Association's Institute for Legislative Action.It's time Congress eliminates costly and unnecessary government regulations on short-barreled rifles, which are used in sport shooting, hunting, and are especially popular with women gun owners for self-defense.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/kansas-adjutant-general-testify-house-science-committee", "Kansas Adjutant General To Testify Before House Science Committee", "2019-12-02", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - As Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology Subcommittee on Environment, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. is proud to announce the participation of Kansas Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Lee E. Tafanelli, on the panel to speak about his experience in reducing the impacts from severe wind events.\nAs Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Tafanelli oversees the activities of the Adjutant General's Department, including providing personnel and administration and training guidance for more than 6,400 soldiers and airmen of the Kansas Army and Air National Guard.He serves as the director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management and guides a professional core of personnel that prepare for and respond to disasters. Tafanelli also serves as the director of Kansas Homeland Security and has oversight of budget and administration of the Civil Air Patrol.His testimony to the committees will provide legislators abetter understanding of how state and local officials coordinate with federal agencies and any hurdles that exist to tapping into federal resources following severe weather events.\nOur state and local leaders have some of the most important experiences and understanding of weather impacts on our communities, said Rep. Marshall. I look forward to welcoming a fellow Kansan to Washington D.C. and hearing from Major General Lee Tafanelli.As the director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, his experience and knowledge of emergency management practices will be a valuable asset to member of the committees.\nThe Joint Hearing will be held Wednesday, Dec. 4. Also providing testimony for the committees are:\n \nDr. Scott Weaver, Director of the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program,National Institute of Standards and Technology\n\t\nDr. Delong Zuo,Associate Professor of Civil Engineering, National Wind Institute, Texas Tech University\n\t\nRyan Colker,Vice President of Innovation, International Code Council; Executive Director, The Alliance for National and Community Resilience\n \nLive coverage of the hearing will be available athttps://science.house.gov/hearings/calm-before-the-storm-reauthorizing-the-national-windstorm-impact-reduction-program", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-office-hold-medicare-tele-town-hall-0", "Rep. Marshall Office to Hold Medicare Tele-Town Hall", "2019-12-02", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SALINA - The Office of U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall will be holding its fourth and final Medicare tele-town hall this Wednesday, Dec. 4, to provide Medicare recipients an opportunity to speak directly with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) officials about their Medicare plans and questions during the final week of the 2019 Medicare Open Enrollment period.\nAs both a doctor and from helping my parents navigate the complexities of Medicare, I know it can get overwhelming. Whether you're a new enrollee or perhaps you're looking to select a health plan that best fits your needs, we want to help provide the information you need,Dr. Marshall said.\nThe call is free of charge and open to all current Medicare recipients. CMS officials from the Kansas City office will answer calls and provide additional information about plans, costs, and changes in coverage opportunities.\nThe next Medicare tele-town hall calls will be held:\nWednesday, Dec. 4:6 p.m.  7 p.m. CST\nThe call-in phone number for the call will be:\nDial-in Number:877-229-8493  PIN:116489\nCongressman Marshall encourages all Medicare recipients to take part in one of the upcoming calls and learn more about Medicare and their options during Open Enrollment season.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/happy-thanksgiving", "Happy Thanksgiving", "2019-12-02", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hello,\r\nWelcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.\r\nHappy Thanksgiving \r\nRobba and I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and hope you were able to spend the holiday with your friends, family and loved ones. It was an honor to spend Thanksgiving with soldiers and their families today at Fort Riley, including Commanding General Kolasheski and his wife Buffy, 1ABCT Colonel Krattiger, and CSM Gutierrez and his wife Yvonne. Also, thank you to all those who helped prepare the Thanksgiving meal at Fort Riley.\r\nOn Thanksgiving, and on every day, we are thankful for the sacrifices and service of Americans in uniform. We are also thankful to the servicemen and women who aren't able to be with their families as they protect us and preserve our nation.\r\n\r\nHosting VA Secretary Wilke in Kansas\r\nThis week, I hosted Robert Wilkie, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, in Topeka and Kansas City to highlight the innovative work taking place at Kansas VA Medical Centers and speak directly with Kansas veterans, caregivers and advocates. Showing Secretary Wilkie around our state allowed him to learn about the unique challenges facing rural veterans. Throughout our visit, we discussed everything from the implementation of the VA MISSION Act to legislation I introduced to improve mental health care and increase suicide prevention programs within communities.\r\nSecretary Wilkie and I started our visit in Topeka at the Colmery-O'Neil VA Medical Center. Thank you to the Kansas VA leaders Dr. William Patterson, Director Rudy Klopfer, Director Rick Ament, Director David Isaacks, and Director Donna Meyer-Hickel for joining us from across the state, and for all the work you do on behalf of veterans. During our time at the facility, we had important conversations about how we can support our nation's heroes by constantly improving the VA healthcare system. The Topeka VAMC's satisfaction rates are among the highest in the country, and it was a pleasure to highlight the hardworking Kansans that make this possible for our nation's heroes.\r\n\r\nNext, we traveled to Kansas City and met with veterans and advocates. Secretary Wilkie and I answered questions about our work to improve the VA and provide veterans with the care and support they deserve. Together, we're working hard to create a 21st century VA that is worthy of the service and sacrifice of our heroes. Watch my video hereregarding the visit.\r\n\r\nNewton City-County Airport Awarded FAA Grant\r\nEarlier this week, I announced that Newton City-County Airport was the recipient of a $7 million Airport Improvement Program grant awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration. Local airports, like the Newton City-County Airport are vital to the region's economy and this grant will allow for much-needed infrastructure improvements. According to the Kansas Department of Commerce, the airport generates $157 million in economic impact to the local economy, and this award will enable the airport to support the area's aviation needs for years to come.\r\nTouring the National Weather Service Facility\r\nOn Tuesday, I toured the National Weather Service (NWS) headquarters for the Central Region, located minutes away from the Kansas City International Airport. This facility handles 11 states, including Kansas, and portions of five other states. It serves as a multipurpose location, operating as a Training Center for NWS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and as one of two Aviation Weather Centers in the world. This center is designated by the International Civil Aviation Organization to provide 24-hour forecasts for aviation-related weather issues, like turbulence and icing, providing a vital safety service to people and airports around the world. Thank you to Ken Harding, Dr. Robert Maxson, and Jeff Zeltwanger for the tour and our conversation about the importance of innovation in this field.\r\n\r\nVisiting the Heart of America Regional Computer Forensics Lab\r\nFollowing my visit to the NWS headquarters, I toured the Heart of America Regional Computer Forensics Lab in Kansas City. The laboratory provides forensic services and expertise to support Kansas law enforcement agencies in collecting and examining digital evidence for a wide range of investigations, including child pornography, terrorism, violent crime, and fraud. This facility is a great example of the partnerships between law enforcement agencies in Kansas and their ongoing efforts to enhance public safety in our state.\r\nAs Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice, I will continue to support and provide critical resources for our law enforcement agencies in Kansas. I thank our men and women in law enforcement for all they do to keep us safe.\r\nAttending the KC Chamber's 132nd Annual Dinner\r\nThis week, I attended the KC Chamber Annual Dinner at the KC Convention Center. This year the KC Chamber presented Al Brooks with the 2019 Kansas Citian of the Year Award. Al is one of the first African-Americans to serve on the KC police force, directed the Human Relations Department in KC after the 1968 riots and founded the Ad Hoc Group Against Crime. Al also has served as a city councilmember, the Mayor Pro Tem and as a member of the KC Police Board. Al has been a role model to not only Kansas Citians throughout the years, but to many across our country. Kansas City is extremely grateful for all he continues to give back to the city. Mayor Kay Barnes, last year's recipient, presented this year's award to Al. In addition, thank you to Black & Veatch CEO, Steve Edwards, for the invitation.\r\nAttending the Kansas Farm Bureau Townhall Meeting\r\nOn Sunday afternoon, I joined the Kansas Farm Bureau's (KFB) Townhall to kick off their 101st annual meeting to discuss issues facing Kansas agriculture. I enjoyed hearing from several producers across our state on the topic of trade and its importance to the products we grow. I spoke on the importance of USMCA to states like Kansas and how producers are facing tougher financial challenges that make working in agriculture more difficult. This can be addressed by promoting our commodities, strengthening existing trade deals and creating new trade relationships. I will continue to encourage this Administration to focus on the importance of trade and agricultural issues. Thank you to KFB President Rich Felts for hosting and providing a platform on which these topics can be discussed.\r\n\r\n\r\nVisiting the Salina Emergency Aid & Food Bank\r\nOn Friday, I was in Salina to visit the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank.Starting in 1971, the Salina Food Bank has served those in the region who are struggling with hunger and other daily needs. Thank you to Executive Director Michael Chambers who led the tour and showcased the outpouring support from the Salina community. In the Senate, I chair the Hunger Caucus where I am working to raise awareness about issues surrounding hunger and always appreciate witnessing the ways in which Kansans are constantly working to serve their neighbors.\r\n\r\nRecognizing Small Business Saturday\r\nI shopped small on Small Business Saturday, stopping in two of my favorite spots in Topeka: Dean's Books and Porubsky Grocery. I also thanked a number of small businesses in Hoyt and Mayetta during my Jackson County Listening Tour Stop. Small businesses play a critical role in our economy and local communities  creating two out of every three new net jobs. Remember to #shopsmall and help support small businesses during the holiday season.\r\n\r\nHosting Kansas Listening Tour Stops\r\nSaline County\r\nOn Friday, I was in Gypsum for a Saline County townhall meeting. We discussed important issues ranging from mental health, education, trade, the impeachment hearings, and the importance of being involved in your local community. Our discussion also focused on veterans and potential health consequences for those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thank you to folks from Saline County for sharing their thoughts and ideas with me and to State Representative Steven Johnson for attending.\r\n\r\nJackson County\r\nOn Saturday, I visited Hoyt and Mayetta for another stop along my Kansas Listening Tour. During my time there, I visited the Hoyt U.S. Post office, Stithem's Service & Tire, Consolidated Rural Water District #4, Hoffman Brothers Welding and Fabrication, Dennison State Bank, the Mayetta Masonic Center, Trading Post, the Mayetta U.S. Post Office and the Prairie Band Casino & Resort.\r\nKansans in the Office\r\nDavid Wright of Wichita\r\nCapitol Tour\r\nBryan Dugan of Wichita\r\nBrenna Dugan of Wichita\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard. Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/12/senator-roberts-announces-service-academy-nominations", "Senator Roberts Announces Service Academy Nominations", "2019-12-02", "2019", "2019-12", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today announced that he nominated 41 Kansas students for an appointment to one of the U.S. Service Academies for the class of 2024.\r\nAs a Marine, I'm pleased to nominate this outstanding group of young men and women to our nation's service academies, Senator Roberts said. I am especially proud to see so many young Kansans seeking to serve in our nation's military.\r\nIn making the nominations, Senator Roberts followed the recommendations of his Academy Screening Board. The nonpartisan board is comprised of seven volunteers from across Kansas and is overseen by Gilda Lintz, Senator Roberts' District Director and Military Academy Coordinator in Topeka. As part of the decision-making process, board members conduct personal interviews with the applicants, as well as review their written applications, G.P.A. and standardized test scores.\r\nOnce nominated by Senator Roberts, the applicants then must meet the individual admission requirements of each academy. The academies will make the final decisions on who will receive an appointment of admission. Due to the limited number of openings at each academy, not every nominee will receive an appointment. The academies will announce appointments this spring for the class entering in July 2020. Senator Roberts' nominees are as follows:\r\nUnited States Air Force Academy  Colorado Springs, CO\r\nMichaela Birkholz, Wichita\r\nZachary Bollinger, Hesston\r\nSamantha Cornwell, Wichita\r\nKyle Kramer, Manhattan\r\nCameron Maltz, Park City\r\nPierce Saturday, Lawrence\r\nCody Savage, Leavenworth\r\nTyler Simms, Olathe\r\nEmily Spurling, Eudora\r\nQuintin Wright, Stilwell\r\n\r\nUnited States Naval Academy  Annapolis, MD\r\nJuan Pineda Gomez, Lenexa\r\nEli Holloman, Topeka\r\nJessica Kelling, McPherson\r\nJack Mickelsen, Topeka\r\nAnthony Moon, Overland Park\r\nJohn Stanley, Chanute\r\nDrew Starbuck, Colby\r\nJames Stubbers, Overland Park\r\nGeorgiana Wilhelm, Wichita\r\nQuintin Wright, Stilwell\r\n\r\nUnited States Military Academy at West Point  West Point, NY\r\nSamuel Baldwin, Andover\r\nJayden Bess, Wilson\r\nTimothy Foster, Leawood\r\nTerah Graber, Wichita\r\nEli Holloman, Topeka\r\nJoshua Kim, Overland Park\r\nBradley Libel, Wathena\r\nAlexander Liebelt, Overland Park\r\nJoseph Purvis, Ft Leavenworth\r\nCierra Ransom, Topeka\r\nRyan Rast, Stilwell\r\nArron Russell, Wichita\r\nPierce Saturday, Lawrence\r\nSophie Scrivner, Andover\r\nSteven Scrivner, Andover\r\nLuke Seigel, Leavenworth\r\nCrew Squires, Derby\r\nJohn Stanley, Chanute\r\nDrew Starbuck, Colby\r\nBrady Weathers, Wichita\r\nUnited States Merchant Marine Academy  Kings Point, NY\r\nZachary Bollinger, Hesston\r\nTerah Graber, Wichita\r\nRonald Heminway, Kingman\r\nJessica Kelling, McPherson\r\nAaron Lamson, Derby\r\nAvery Lawson, Shawnee\r\nBradley Libel, Wathena\r\nAaron Schifman, Topeka\r\nJessica Taylor, Wichita\r\nGrant Treaster, Newton\r\nSenator Roberts will begin accepting applications in March for nominations to academy classes entering in July 2021. Applicants wishing to find out more information on the process for nominations should visit Senator Roberts' website.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/what-i-m-thankful", "What Im Thankful For", "2019-11-29", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Thanksgiving is upon us, and like many of you, I have been reflecting on the many blessings in our lives and the reasons we all have to be thankful.\nAbove all else, I'm thankful we are able to worship God in a free country, and at the church of our choosing. While we too often take this for granted, millions of people around the world are deprived of this basic human right. I continue to keep them in my prayers.\nI'm thankful for the love of my wife, children, and grandchildren, and every moment I get to spend with them. After faith, my family is my highest priority, and I'm grateful for their continued love and support, despite all the demands in my life.As I work in Congress, I'm thankful for my weekly bipartisan prayer group, and my wife's bipartisanship Bible study and prayer groups. Getting things done in Washington requires having strong relationships, and these bipartisan meetings are important for reaching across the aisle.\nI'm thankful for all those back home who are praying for my family and me as I work in Congress, and I hope they know how much their prayers mean to me.\nWhen I'm on the road, I enjoy visiting communities large and small, and getting to meet and know so many wonderful folks. I'm thankful for the dedication of these men and women in their communities who keep Main Street alive, and their local hospital doors open. While there are some things we can do, like funding rural infrastructure, Washington D.C. will never be the solution to most community problems. I commend the people who continue to find innovative and creative solutions to keep their communities alive and well.\nI'm grateful that the greatest military in human history protects our country. I am thankful for the men and women who serve in our armed forces, and those who have served, and their families that have sacrificed. And I hope you join me this week with a special prayer of thanks for the memories of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.\nThe U.S. Constitution is the greatest governing document ever conceived. The Framers balanced and separated powers to safeguard human rights, liberty, and justice. Thank goodness we live under this guiding document, which protects our citizens and guards against would-be tyrants. I will continue to strive to defend our Constitution so future generations can enjoy the same freedoms you and I do today.\nI'm thankful for a President who is keeping his promise to appoint judges who will uphold the Constitution and not impose undemocratic decrees on Americans. I'm thankful for a President who has cut taxes to return money to hardworking Americans to whom it belongs, and thankful for a President determined to bring our troops home and end our endless wars in the Middle East.\nEvery time I drive to or through Colby, I think of your motto, The oasis on the Plains. You were an early adopter of the interstate and created a shopping and dining hub to welcome guests on that long stretch of highway. Your community truly is that oasis, and through the years, has continued to be such a great greeting for those entering the western part of our state.\nKansans are some of the most decent, hard-working, and honest men and women on earth. Kindness, hospitality, service to others - all characteristics people from Kansas are known to possess. I'm thankful for the privilege to represent the good people of the First District of Kansas in Congress. I'm thankful to get to serve you in pursuit of our shared goals of peace and prosperity.\nAs we take pause from our busy lives this Thanksgiving and Christmas season, here's hoping you and your loved ones are able to spend time together reflecting on all you are thankful for.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/fort-rileys-thanksgiving-dinner-served-officers-and-senior-ncos", "Fort Riley's Thanksgiving dinner served by officers and senior NCOs", "2019-11-28", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Both Officers and senior noncommissioned officers served Thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers and their families from 11 to 2.\nThe Thanksgiving Day meal was open to all Soldiers and civilians\nThe meal included both roasted and smoked turkey, steamship round, glazed ham, and shrimp scampi.\nAlso on the menu were traditional sides like green bean casserole, candied sweet potatoes, roasted butternut squash, mashed potatoes, roasted glazed carrots, roasted Brussel sprouts with bacon, corn on the cob, classic dressing, and gravy.\nDesserts included bread pudding, apple crisp, peach cobbler and assorted pies, cakes and cookies.\nSoldiers aren't always able to go home to their families, so they're able to come here and get that, that home-feeling or that home-vibe of the home-cooked meal, the meal that so much love is put into. Fort Riley Div. of Food Services, Sergeant Major Aletha Holliday says.\nEvery day of the year we should be thankful for those who serve our country, but this is a special opportunity to make sure that those who serve here at Fort Riley know that Kansans care about them. Senator Jerry Moran says.\nThis was Senator Moran's fifth year to join soldiers and their families for Thanksgiving dinner at Fort Riley. Representative Roger Marshall also attended Thursday's luncheon and helped with serving roasted turkey.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/americas-cattle-ranchers-are-fighting-back-against-fake-meat", "America's cattle ranchers are fighting back against fake meat", "2019-11-27", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On a rainy September morning, a pair of cattle ranchers browsed the refrigerated meat cases at a Walmart Inc. store in Mandan, N.D., snapping cellphone photos of an unwelcome invader among the shrink-wrapped ground beef: Beyond Meat Inc. patties, made from pea protein and coconut oil. After a separate check at a nearby local supermarket, the ranchers headed to the North Dakota Department of Health. They showed officials the photos and warned of food-safety risks from mixing plant burgers with the traditional beef kind. Their message: Meatless burgers don't belong on beef's turf. The impromptu inspection by the ranchersone of whom was Kenny Graner, president of the U.S. Cattlemen's Associationis just one front in a growing war against their plant-based rivals. Cattle ranchers and their allies are pushing regulators to scrutinize alternative meat-makers, recruiting food scientists to test plant-based products for potential health risks, and ramping up countercampaigns to highlight beef's nutritional benefits while comparing their rivals to dog food. They've even created a digital assistant, available on voice-activated Google and Amazon devices, that can answer consumers' questions about beef and, when pressed, beef alternatives. The best alternative to beef, it says, is more beef.\" Over the past two years, the beef industry has pushed legislation that restricts terms like beef and meat to the kind raised on the hoof, not products derived from plants or future ones developed using animal cells in labs. Various labeling laws are now on the books in 12 states and were considered this year in 15 others, with a federal bill introduced in October.\nFor restaurants and grocery stores, growth is coming not from the real thing, but from a new generation of meatless products that combine proteins from soy or yellow peas with potato starch, beet juice and other ingredients to more closely mimic beef's sizzle and juiciness. U.S. retail meat sales fell 0.4% in the past 12 months through October, while sales of alternative meat grew 8%, according to market-research firm Nielsen. In the 12 months before that, meat sales fell 0.8% while sales of alternatives rose 21%. Plant-based alternatives amount to the equivalent of just 1% of the total volume of meat sold in the U.S., according to Nielsen. But some beef producers see an existential threat in the growth of meat-alternative makers like Beyond and Impossible Foods Inc.\nFor a hint at the threat they face, they point to dairy farmers' years-long losing battle against almond, soy and other imitation milks that have captured about 10% of sales, while consumption of traditional cows' milk has declined.\nAnytime someone walks in the grocery store and makes a decision not to purchase our product and purchase another we've lost a potential consumer, said Jess Peterson, a cowboy-hat-sporting lobbyist for the U.S. Cattlemen's Association who also raises cattle in Montana. It's a very small number, but it's a number that can grow.\nFast-food chains have raced to place meat alternatives on their menus. Burger King now sells an Impossible Whopper, White Castle has the Impossible Slider and Carl's Jr., the Beyond Famous Star. Traditional meatpackers like Tyson Foods Inc., Hormel Foods Corp. and Smithfield Foods have developed their own meat mimics. In September, the products got their biggest endorsement yet when burger giant McDonald's Corp. announced it would test a Beyond-based sandwich in 28 restaurants in southwestern Ontario. It's called the P.L.T., short for plant, lettuce, tomato, and it's retailing for 6.49 Canadian dollars ($4.88) in a trial running through the end of the year.\nPlant-based food makers promote their burgers as healthier for consumers, with a fraction of the environmental impact that comes from raising, transporting and slaughtering cattle. Part of Impossible's stated mission is to end all livestock production, which the Redwood City, Calif.-based company calls a prehistoric and destructive technology.\nThe whole point of our product is not to be successful as a new product, but to be successful at the expense of the incumbent industry, said Pat Brown, Impossible's chief executive and founder. Obviously the incumbent industry is going to do whatever it can to throw obstacles in our way. Among those obstacles is a campaign to sow doubts about the benefits of meat alternatives. The Center for Consumer Freedom, a Washington-based nonprofit that is partly funded by meat producers and other companies, in 2018 began a campaign to counter consumers' belief that meat alternatives are healthier than regular meat, critiquing what it says are the products' heavily processed nature and reliance on fillers and additives that contribute to obesity.\nThe group, which has previously campaigned against animal-rights activists and soda taxes, started by penning op-eds in local and national newspapers and meat-industry websites, questioning meat alternatives' processing and ingredients. Since July, it has bought ads in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and USA Today, blasting meat-alternative products with slogans such as fake meat, real chemicals. And a post on the CCF's website in August highlighted a quiz that compared veggie-burger ingredients with those found in dog food. The arguments over the ingredients in plant-based products are silly, said Jessica Almy, director of policy at the Good Food Institute, a Washington group promoting meat alternatives. Meat is also a processed product, as it contains all the food and medicine an animal took in before it was slaughtered, Ms. Almy said.\nUsing scare tactics is a desperate attempt to stem the surging interest in these products, she said.\nRichard Berman, CCF's executive director, said his group has also hired food-science labs to analyze potential health risks of meat alternatives, and plans to publicize the findings.\nI'm on offense, Mr. Berman said. He declined to identify CCF's funders.\nIn the spring of 2017, Kansas cattle producer Larry Kendig, a director of the U.S. Cattlemen's Association, went to a series of regional farm shows to enlist ranchers' support for a petition urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to more tightly regulate plant-based food labels. The FDA has jurisdiction over the labeling of plant-based products, and all foods except meat, poultry and egg products. That falls to the USDA, which has a dual role as a regulator of U.S. meat production and as a promoter of U.S. food products.\nThe FDA has permitted meat-free products to use meat terminology, like bacon and beefy, if their labels also bear identifiers like vegan or plant-based. Meat-alternative proponents say those terms give consumers an idea of their function, and that consumers buy the products because they contain no meat, rather than out of confusion.\nThe U.S. Cattlemen's Association filed their petition in February 2018, asking the USDA to exclude meat-alternative products from the agency's definition of meat and beef. We're not about saying you can't develop these products, said the U.S. Cattlemen's Mr. Graner. We've been saying, don't call it what it isn't.\nAbout three months later, USDA investigators fanned out across Kroger Co. , Safeway, Whole Foods Market, and other grocery stores in California, New Jersey, Ohio and Oklahoma. The investigators snapped photos of meat-free products made by Beyond, Late July Snacks LLC and Sweet Earth Foods, a subsidiary of Nestle SA, and made note of their locations.\nAt Berkeley Natural Grocery Co., in Berkeley, Calif., a store employee questioned the USDA inspectors' motives. I feel like you guys are going after these companies and that's not right, he said, according to the USDA's record of the visit. A USDA spokeswoman said the agency pursued the review because of concerns that various stakeholders raised over plant-based products allegedly misrepresenting themselves as meat and poultry. An FDA spokesman said the agency enforces truthful labeling for plant-based food products, and declined to comment on specific companies' labels.\nNothing further came from those store visits. Ethan Brown, Beyond's chief executive, said that the FDA hasn't sought any changes to the company's labeling.\nMr. Peterson, the beef lobbyist, nevertheless viewed it as a victory. The goal of that petition was to do exactly what happened, he said. We wanted to elevate the issue to the federal agencies. Missouri became the first state to pass such a law in June 2018. Supporters there said the law would stop the plant-based producers from misrepresenting their products. Vegetarian-meat company Tofurky Co. joined with meat-alternative advocates to swiftly sue on First Amendment grounds, arguing in part that the law prevents them from labeling their products in ways that consumers understand.\nNo one buys Tofurky PLANT-BASED' deli slices thinking they were carved from a slaughtered animal any more than people are buying almond milk thinking it was squeezed from a cow's udder, said the Good Food Institute, one of the plaintiffs in the case. The legal fight over the Missouri law is ongoing.\nOther states including Mississippi, Louisiana, South Dakota and Wyoming have passed their own laws this year, and similar bills were debated in more than a dozen additional states including Iowa, Nebraska and Texas.\nMississippi, facing a legal challenge of its own, this fall opted to allow plant-based food makers to use some terms as long as they carry modifiers, such as meat-free hot dogs or plant-based bacon, a move that placated opponents.\nJaime Athos, chief executive of Tofurky, said he hasn't yet modified the labels on the products his company sells because the legal challenges are ongoing, and he isn't sure how he would comply given the variation in the state laws.\nThese laws are written so ambiguously. It would be hard to change our labels because I'm not sure how we would, Mr. Athos said. Tofurky is also a plaintiff in a similar legal fight in Arkansas.\nIn Washington, meat-alternative makers made early inroads in lobbying and advocacy. In 2016, startup Hampton Creek, now known as Just Inc., spent $110,000 to hire lobbyist Heather Podesta and her shop to make introductions to Washington officials as it was seeking to expand, according to the company and a disclosure form. Elizabeth Kucinich, the former policy director at the Center for Food Safety (and wife of former Democratic congressman Dennis Kucinich), was retained that year to represent the newly formed Plant Based Foods Association. And a lobbyist that group hired to focus on state fights has represented food and restaurant companies in Washington for years.\nThe cattlemen initially targeted state legislatures, joining with agriculture-friendly lawmakers and combining efforts to write laws to restrict how plant-based products use terminology like meat, beef and sausage. As the legal challenges proliferate, cattle lobbyists like Aaron Propelka of the Kansas Livestock Association are crafting new state and federal bills that can withstand such lawsuits. One that he worked on with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, a Colorado-based beef group, was introduced in Congress by representatives from Kansas and New York in late October.\nIt would require plant-based products to be labeled as imitation meat products and hand the USDA greater authority over their labels. Mr. Propelka said he hosted the bill's co-sponsor, Rep. Roger Marshall (R, Kan.), at his Topeka office as it was drawn up. Hearings on the bill haven't yet been scheduled. The NCBA is working on a Senate version.\nA separate battle is under way in grocery-store aisles and restaurant menus. Plant-based brands like Beyond, Impossible, Lightlife Foods Inc. and others are claiming more territory in the meat aisles of chains like Safeway and Kroger, while fast-food chains like Restaurant Brands International Inc. 's Burger King and Dunkin' Brands Group Inc. air ad campaigns touting their new Impossible and Beyond-based sandwiches. (In its ad, Dunkin' enlisted rapper Snoop Dogg to hand out breakfast sandwiches that have that plant-based great taste.)\nIn the middle are meat buyers like John Beretta, group vice president of meat and seafood for grocery chain Albertsons Cos. Mr. Beretta took a chance on adding one Beyond product in a single California store roughly three years ago after he was pitched by the company.\nI'm a meat guy. I thought it had some flavor, texture. We gave it a shot, said Mr. Beretta, in the meat business for 38 years.\nNow, meat alternatives command an entire section in Albertsons' meat aisle, with Beyond sharing space with Lightlife and the store's own plant-based products. About 90% of the 2,268 stores owned by Albertsons now have alternatives in the meat section, with the products sold from Maryland to Alaska.\nOur beef customers are enjoying it, he said. They are buying multiple packages of it at one time.\nKroger, the largest conventional U.S. supermarket chain, is now testing alternatives in the meat aisles of 60 stores, after the Plant Based Foods Association pitched Kroger on a sales strategy this year. The test could expand to more stores depending on the results, a Kroger spokeswoman said.\nBeef producers are expanding their own marketing efforts, relaunching in 2017 the famed Beef. It's What's For Dinner campaign, which officials said plays well with millennial consumers.\nAlisa Harrison, the head of marketing and research for the NCBA, said the group hosts grocery-chain executives at the NCBA's Denver culinary center, aiming to reinforce beef's retail heft. When people have beef in their basket, the overall ticket is higher, Ms. Harrison said. If you're having steak, you're more likely to have a bottle of wine. At the Annual Meat Conference last March in Dallas, NCBA officials introduced grocery-store officials and other attendees to Chuck Knows Beef, the digital assistant capable of answering questions about beef. Ms. Harrison said the NCBA has invested $1.5 million in beef-promoting technology initiatives like Chuck over the last three years.\nRestaurants and retailers said they are trying to keep both sides happy. But mostly they want to sell more products, and increasingly plant-based meat alternatives are the products that generate buzz and customers.\nThe Impossible Slider has built our sales, said Jamie Richardson, vice president for corporate relations at White Castle System Inc., one of the first chains to roll out meatless patties nationally last year. We aren't walking away from that.\nMr. Brown, Beyond Meat's CEO, said he believes companies like his can peacefully coexist with meat producers, and potentially work together. The night before a major restaurant chain announced it would introduce Beyond's yellow-pea protein-based burgers, Mr. Brown got on the phone, at the chain's request, to talk with two cattle ranchers who raise beef for the chain. He declined to identify the chain.\nMr. Brown said he listened as the cattlemen rebutted criticisms of the meat industry. He suggested to them that grain and livestock producers could make more money by using some of their land to grow yellow peas and other crops used to make meat alternatives. He told them that the two camps didn't need to be at odds.\nThat view faces a tough sell in beef country, where some ranchers said they can't even bring themselves to try an Impossible Whopper at Burger King, or a Beyond Sausage Breakfast Sandwich at Dunkin'.\nWhy would I? asked NCBA President Jennifer Houston, whose family sells cattle in eastern Tennessee. I'm a beef producer.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2169", "Rep. Estes Introduces Unclaimed Savings Bond Legislation", "2019-11-26", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-KS), along with Reps. Danny Davis (D-IL), William Timmons (R-SC) and Ben McAdams (D-UT), introduced the Unclaimed Savings Bond Act of 2019 today. The legislation would require the U.S. Treasury Department to transfer all records and ownership of unclaimed, matured savings bonds to states to find the rightful owners and heirs of the bonds. The bipartisan legislation currently has seven total cosponsors.\"For decades, the federal Treasury Department has held people's matured savings bonds without returning them to the legal owners or heirs, including nearly $210 million in unclaimed bonds owed to Kansans. The Unclaimed Savings Bond Act of 2019 will ensure states are able to access Treasury records and return matured, unclaimed savings bonds to their legal owners,\" said Congressman Ron Estes. \"As Kansas state treasurer, I helped Kansas become one of the first states to pursue legal action to obtain unclaimed bonds and return them to their owners. I'm proud to introduce this legislative fix to address this issue across the country.\" Currently, there are more than $26 billion worth of decades old, matured, unclaimed United States Savings Bonds sitting in the U.S. Treasury, a number that has grown by roughly $10 billion in the last six years. The federal government uses this money as it pleases, even though the money constitutes a loan made to the government by citizens decades ago. Despite maintaining records of the bond owners and their bonds, Treasury has done nothing to contact the rightful owners of the unredeemed bonds, even when the bonds matured and were payable. While states often make efforts to return unclaimed property, Treasury has refused to give states access to the records to do so. Since 1952, states have tried to get the federal government to turn over the names and addresses of those individuals so they could be found and notified of their unclaimed bonds. Recently, states, beginning with Kansas, have initiated litigation to obtain the records from the Treasury Department. \"I am honored to join a bipartisaneffort to allow states to obtain the necessary information to assist individuals in reclaiming matured unclaimed bonds\" said Congressman Danny Davis. \"This common sense legislation is pivotalto Illinois where there is roughly 1 Billion dollars on unclaimed or missing bonds. I am hopeful that we can move this bill to passage and correct this problem expeditiously.\" Over the last several decades, $357 million worth of South Carolinians' unclaimed savings bonds have accumulated in the United States Treasury. These bonds are fully matured and serve no one's financial interest in their current state. This legislation is simple, it will empower state treasurers across the country to reunite citizens with their investments, said Congressman William Timmons. I am proud to join my colleague, Congressman Estes, in his effort to rejoin Americans with their money. If the Federal government can't or won't return Utahns hard-earned money in an easy and accessible way, then the states should step in. This bipartisan bill builds on what works at the local level to ensure Utahns are reconnected with over $200 million, said Congressman Ben McAdams. This legislation mandates the government connect the dots and finally payback the taxpayer what they are owed. There is currently over $26 billion in unclaimed U.S. Savings Bonds collecting dust in the U.S. Treasury Building. Missourians alone are owed an estimated $438 million. These bonds were sold with the guarantee of the full faith and credit of the United States government. It is time for the government to live up to its promise, said CongressmanJason Smith. Illinois has over $1 billion in matured and unclaimed savings bonds. If the Federal government continues to refuse to notify the rightful owners of matured bonds, then the states should be allowed to step in and do so. I am proud to join this bipartisan group to introduce this legislation, which will ensure the money of hard-working taxpayers returns to their pockets, said Congressman Darin LaHood. I'm pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this simple, bipartisan bill to ensure that Federal Savings Bonds are properly paid out. California should be able to notify owners of matured bonds who may have lost or misplaced their paperwork over the years. This legislation would do that, putting money back in the pockets of working families, said Congresswoman Linda Snchez.  \"States have well-established unclaimed property programs and are uniquely positioned to lead the effort to reunite the $26 billion in matured, unredeemed savings bonds with the rightful owners. As the president of the National Association of State Treasurers, I would like to express our gratitude to the House members championing this important legislation. This is real money back in the pockets of our constituents,\" said David Damschen, Utah State Treasurer and President, National Association of State Treasurers. Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) has introduced similar legislation in the Senate. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/sen-moran-announces-aip-grant-for-newton-city-county-airport", "Sen. Moran Announces AIP Grant for Newton City-County Airport", "2019-11-26", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation  today announced a $7,178,799 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for critical infrastructure improvements at the Newton City-County Airport.\r\n\r\nThis grant from the FAA to the Newton City-County Airport will allow for much-needed infrastructure improvements, enabling the airport to support the area's aviation needs for years to come, said Sen. Moran. Local airports are vital to the regional economies across Kansas, and I'm pleased to see this award go to Newton and Harvey County, allowing for continued development in the area.\r\n\r\nThis grant is great news for our airport, said City of Newton City Manager Bob Myers. This is a project we have needed for some time now, and we greatly appreciate our partners at the federal level for securing this valuable funding assistance.\r\n\r\nThe benefit to the community is the airfield has over 400 employees in 21 different businesses, said Chairman of the Harvey County Commission George Chip Westfall. It supplies employment for local counties, which impacts our economy, period. We have several aircraft mechanical companies out there that bring in maintenance work not just for Newton, but for all over the region, which boosts our economy.\r\n\r\nThe $7.2 million grant will be used to reconstruct the taxiway that runs adjacent to the primary runway, allowing for the continued and expanded use of the runway by larger, heavier aircraft. According to the Kansas Department of Commerce, the airport generates $157 million in economic impact to the local economy each year. More information on this and other AIP grants can be found here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2168", "Rep. Estes Resolution to Honor Special Forces and Conan Now Has 40 Cosponsors", "2019-11-25", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced today that his resolution commending the performance of the U.S. Special Operations Forces and the military working dog Conan who successfully assisted in capturing Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi now has 40 bipartisan cosponsors. Rep. Estes introduced the resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month. \"As Conan enjoyed a well-deserved visit to the White House today, I am pleased that our resolution to honor her and the Special Operations Forces who took out Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi has growing bipartisan support in the House,\" said Rep. Estes. \"Conan continues to capture the hearts of people around our country and the world. I look forward to continuing to add cosponsors to this resolution highlighting the heroic actions of the Special Operations Forces and Conan.\"\r\n  \r\nPhoto courtesy: @realdonaldtrump/Twitter\r\nBackground:The resolution states that the House of Representatives, \"recognizes the immeasurable value of military working dogs; honors the military working dog assigned to the raid of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi for assisting in the elimination of an enemy of the United States from the world; and honors and celebrates the actions of the United States Special Operations Forces on October 26, 2019.\" In addition to recognizing the brave efforts of Special Operations Forces, Rep. Estes' resolution honors the history of military working dogs like the K-9 injured in the raid to capture al-Baghdadi on Oct. 26, 2019, before returning to duty two days later. Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, head of U.S. Central Command, identified the dog as a a four-year veteran of the U.S. Special Operations Command K-9 program that has been a member of approximately 50 combat missions. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-announces-service-academy-nominations", "Rep. Marshall Announces Service Academy Nominations", "2019-11-25", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SALNA -Congressman Marshall is pleased to announce the following nominations for the U.S. Military Service Academies.\nA total of eight students from the First Congressional District participated in the final interview process, and all eight earned nominations for at least one service academy.\nIt's a privilege and honor to nominate these young men and women to our nation's esteemed military service academies, Rep. Roger Marshall said. Their dedication and commitment to leadership, service, and duty is inspiring and represents the best of the next generation.\nBelow are the students who received nominations from Congressman Marshall's the office:\nU.S. Air Force Academy\n1. Kyle Kramer (Manhattan)  Kyle is the son of Kimberly Kramer and currently attends Manhattan High School\nU.S. Naval Academy\n1. Rudolph Rodriguez (Salina)  Rudolph is the son of Matt and Kristy Rodriguez and currently attends the U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School\n2. Storm Slupianek (Marysville)  Storm is the son of Jake and Shelly Slupianek and currently attends Marysville High School\nU.S. Military Academy\n1. Talbert Deming (Fort Riley)  Talbert is the son of Troy and Christina Deming and currently attends the U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School\n2. Aaron Hoff (Manhattan)  Aaron is the son of Shannon Creagh and currenting attends Manhattan High School\n3. Jessica Kelling (McPherson)  Jessica is the daughter of Brian and Nadine Kelling and currently attends McPherson High School\n4. Storm Slupianek (Marysville)  Storm is the son of Jake and Shelly Slupianek and currently attends Marysville High School\nU.S. Merchant Marine Academy\n1. Lane Johnson-Martinez (Marysville)  Lane is the son of Michelle Johnson and currently attends Marysville High School\nTo be nominated, applicants must meet the recommendations and standards set by each academy, complete online applications and interview with at least one Member of Congress or Senate.\nAll applicants were interviewed by the following panelists: Buzz Bruzina, Junction City; Tyler Mason, Salina; Jean Clifford, Garden City; and Seth Kastle, Ed D., Wakeeney.\nNominations were submitted to the academies for final consideration. Students will learn if they receive an appointment from one or more of the academies in early 2020.\nYou can learn more about the Military Service Academy nomination process on our website athttps://marshall.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/supporting-air-traffic-controllers", "Supporting Air Traffic Controllers", "2019-11-25", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hello,\r\n\r\nWelcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.\r\n\r\nSupporting Air Traffic Controllers\r\nOn Wednesday, I introduced the Continuity for Operators with Necessary Training Required for ATC Contract Towers (CONTRACT) Act of 2019, along with my colleagues Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.). Contract towers are an important part of our national air traffic control systemserving communities through a proven public-private partnership that increases safety and improves air traffic control services while lowering the cost to the federal government and the American taxpayer. Today, there are 256 air traffic control facilities participating in the FAA's Federal Contract Tower Program, including Garden City, Hutchinson, Manhattan, Salina and two locations in Olathe and Topeka.\r\n\r\nFederal contract towers face a unique hurdle to hiring trained and well-qualified retired FAA controllers. Because FAA air traffic controllers are one of several federal employee groups whose retirement is mandated at 56 years of age, retired FAA controllers are penalized for continuing to work as controllers at federal contract towers. This legislation would eliminate that penalty and allow experienced retired FAA employees the opportunity to use their skills at a federal contract tower without facing a financial penalty. The CONTRACT Act has received strong support from stakeholders, including the U.S. Contract Tower Association (USCTA), the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). Click here to read more on this bill.\r\n\r\nPassing the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act\r\nOn Tuesday, the Senate unanimously passed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, which supports those protesting for their basic rights. For years, and particularly in the past six months, Chinese leaders have been undermining the autonomy and freedoms granted to Hong Kong under an international agreement. This legislation, which was later passed by the House, sends a clear message that the United States will not ignore Beijing's ongoing efforts to deprive liberty for its people.\r\n\r\nHosting Attorney General Barr\r\nOn Wednesday, Attorney General William Barr joined me for breakfast to discuss his recent trip with me to Kansas, hear updates on work to bolster the nation's law enforcement and ongoing work at the Department of Justice to better equip communities across Kansas and the nation to combat the opioid epidemic, violent crime and more. As the chief appropriator for the Department of Justice, my close partnership with AG Barr is valuable as we work to make certain our law enforcement officers have the resources they need to keep our country safe. Thanks, AG Barr, for your commitment to these officers and for your work to advance Kansas public safety.\r\n\r\nIntroducing Legislation to Combat Deepfakes'\r\nOn Wednesday, I introduced bipartisan legislation to fund research into ways of detecting deepfakes, which are online videos that are manipulated to realistically mimic a person's identity, and this legislation would help raise awareness of deepfakes and determine ways to combat the rising threat of this technology. The Identifying Outputs of Generative Adversarial Networks Act (IOGAN Act) directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to support research to accelerate the development of technologies that could help improve the detection of deepfakes. Deepfakes can be means for a variety of ill-intentioned uses, but the technology poses a specific threat to U.S. voters and consumers by way of misinformation that is increasingly difficult to identify. This bill will assist the federal government to effectively coordinate its efforts to address this threat by accelerating research and development of deepfake technology detection.\r\n\r\nParticipating in BVNW National Honors Society Induction\r\nOn Thursday, I joined a group of Blue Valley Northwest students in the Capitol for a National Honors Society Induction Ceremony. The students were in town for the National High School Journalism Convention, co-hosted by the Journalism Education Association headquartered at K-State. I was happy I could assist in creating a special moment for them in our nation's Capitol building, and honored to swear them in with the same pledge I took some years ago as a student at Plainville High School.\r\n\r\nAfterward, we discussed the future and importance of journalism to our communities. I look forward to seeing the good work each of them do in the future. Thank you to the advisors and teachers who provided them the opportunity to visit and learn in Washington, D.C.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMeeting with K-State Grain Science Students\r\nOn Tuesday, I had the opportunity to meet with a group of students that are a part of the Bakery Science Department at K-State, the only place in the United States to get a four-year degree in bakery science and management. During the meeting, we discussed facilities at K-State, policy issues of the day, and my path to becoming a United States senator. I appreciate the conversation with the students and wish the students continued success in their college careers. Thanks to Dr. Gordon Smith for leading the group out to DC.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nUSDA Announces Rural Development Grants for Kansas Entities\r\nOn Wednesday, USDA Rural Development (USDA-RD) announced grants to 133 distance learning and telemedicine projects across the country, including four grants for projects in our state. These projects will improve healthcare and education for Kansans by investing in interactive video equipment installation that will improve opioid addiction and mental health treatment, develop distance learning courses in STEM fields, and other activities. The grants, which were awarded to Farm & Home Cooperative, Pawnee Mental Health Services, Dodge City, and K-State, are estimated to benefit over 20,000 Kansans and 4,500 students in rural areas of our state.\r\n\r\nUSDA-RD also announced a series of loans and grants to rural communities for water infrastructure projects. The loans and grants will fund upgrades to the City of Minneola's water infrastructure, a new municipal water treatment facility for the City of Horton, and improvements to the City of Fredonia's wastewater collection system. As a member of the Senate Ag Appropriations Subcommittee that funds USDA-RD, I will continue working with my colleagues on programs that sustain and improve rural communities in Kansas.\r\n\r\nTouring Schwan's Pizza Plant in Salina\r\nOn Friday, I was in Salina to tour the Schwan's Pizza Plant, where 'Tony's Pizza' is made. As part of their operation in Salina, the men and women of this facility produce 336 million pounds of pizza per year, using milk from 41,000 cows a day. The company is an important factor of the Salina economy, and I was pleased to visit with employees and leadership during my tour.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nVisiting the VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic\r\nI spent Friday morning visiting Salina's Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, part of the Robert Dole VA Center system based out of Wichita. I was honored to spend time visiting with our nation's veterans and their healthcare providers. During the visit, we discussed the recently-implemented VA MISSION Act and how we can better partner with VA providers to improve healthcare for our veterans. Hearing their personal experiences within the VA healthcare system informs the work I do in Washington, D.C. on behalf of our current and former service members.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nUnion Pacific's Big Boy Locomotive Chugged Across Kansas\r\nTo commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Union Pacific Railroad, the historic Big Boy steam locomotive No. 4014 made its way across Kansas last week, with stops including Kansas City, Topeka, Salina and Abilene. Robba had the opportunity to attend Big Boy's stop in Manhattan and shared with me the photo below. It was great to know that Kansans of all ages were taking advantage of this wonderful opportunity to witness the world's only operating Big Boy locomotive in action, following over two years of restoration. Thank you to Union Pacific for showing off such an important symbol of rail transportation to Kansas and the country.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nVisiting Lincoln County\r\nListening Tour StopOn Saturday morning, I was in Lincoln to visit with local residents, business leaders and community officials. During these conversations, we discussed a number of issues including trade and the need to pass USMCA, the importance of a vibrant farm economy, rural broadband and access to healthcare. Thanks to all those who took time to visit with me on Saturday.\r\n\r\nTouring Lincoln County Hospital\r\nFollowing my townhall meeting, I toured Lincoln County Hospital with CEO Steve Granzow. During the tour, I enjoyed visiting with hospital staff, their Board and community leaders. Amid constant challenges for community hospitals, their employees find ways to go above and beyond to give back to their communities. I saw this first-hand through a room full of needed food pantry items  the result of an employee Thanksgiving food drive. Thank you to Steven Granzow, CEO of Lincoln County Hospital, for hosting and everyone who took time to speak with me during my visit.\r\n\r\nKansans in the Office\r\n\r\nSarah Weekley of Leavenworth\r\nJeffrey Zindel of Mission\r\n\r\nACTFL\r\nDiane DeNoon of Overland Park\r\nMike Flenthrope of Olathe\r\nDustin McMurry of Franklin\r\nAlyssa Rumple of Valley Center\r\n\r\nAmerican Bakers Association KSU Student Group \r\nIsabella Alvarenga of Manhattan\r\nKacee Campbell of Arkansas City\r\nAndrew Dorsch of Manhattan\r\nHulya Dogan of Manhattan\r\nSarah Maddock of Topeka\r\nJackson Phillips of Manhattan\r\nGordon Smith of Manhattan\r\nEmily Stangel of Manhattan\r\nGeorgeanna Stockemer of Garden Plain\r\n\r\nCapitol Tour \r\nAaron Avery of Overland Park\r\nImran Bangash of Overland Park\r\nOlivia Baxter of Overland Park\r\nJanet Bohren of Hutchinson\r\nEmily Burgan of Overland Park\r\nAddie Cowell of Overland Park\r\nGrace Davis of Overland Park\r\nAllison Dragoo of Overland Park\r\nErin Fitzgerald of Overland Park\r\nGina Foster of Overland Park\r\nKatelyn Foster of Overland Park\r\nEmma Gau of Overland Park\r\nCharles Hovey of Lenexa\r\nElla Hutnick of Overland Park\r\nMarissa Jacobs of Overland Park\r\nEmma Johnson of Overland Park\r\nIzze Lentfer of Overland Park\r\nJacquie Luhar of Overland Park\r\nJim McCrossen of Overland Park\r\nJay Oakes of Overland Park\r\nLindsey Owens of Overland Park\r\nKathryn Rich of Sterling\r\nScott Rich of Sterling\r\nKate Rizza of Atchison\r\nPamela Rizza of Atchison\r\nRobert Rizza of Atchison\r\nRachel Sarff of Overland Park\r\nMarie Schulte of Overland Park\r\nLola Shipman of Overland Park\r\nMack Smith of Overland Park\r\nSydney Stremming of Overland Park\r\nLily Torres of Overland Park\r\nDeb Wood of WaKeeney\r\nMark Wood of WaKeeney\r\nKim White of Overland Park\r\nMelanie Wilkins of Overland Park\r\n\r\nCongress Bundestag Students\r\nEmily Bomblies of Easton\r\nJana Fetzer of Fredonia\r\nJulia Haegele of Wichita\r\nTomke Juilfs of Wichita\r\nValerie Line of Hutchinson\r\n\r\nFrontier Farm Credit \r\nJanet Bailey of Manhattan\r\n\r\nIgnition Teaching for Justice \r\nGrace Snider of Overland Park\r\n\r\nKansas Independent College Association and Foundation \r\nDr. Amy Bragg Carey of Wichita\r\nMatt Lindsey of Lawrence\r\nDr. Scott Rich of Sterling\r\nDr. Reggies Wenyika of Ottawa\r\n\r\nKansas LEND\r\nMallorey Beckloff of Prairie Village\r\nSkylar Bellinger of Shawnee\r\nAmy Newport of Lawrence\r\nKiki Oyetunji of Prairie Village\r\nJessica Schuttler of Shawnee\r\nAlica Zhang of Lawrence\r\n\r\nKansas Soybean Commission \r\nDennis Gruenbacher of Andale\r\nBob Haselwood of Topeka\r\nDennis Hupe of Topeka\r\nGary Louis of Shawnee Mission\r\n\r\nMid Star Lab \r\nKari Wagner of Tonganoxie\r\n\r\nNational Stone, Sand and Gravel Association \r\nSteve Sloan of Pittsburg\r\n\r\nSt. Francis Xavier Catholic Youth \r\nViolet Apodaca of Kansas City\r\n\r\nTransportation Intermediaries Association\r\nBrett Wilson of Colby\r\n\r\nWichita Mayor-Elections\r\nBrandon Whipple of Wichita\r\n\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/ks-rep-introduces-bill-boost-aviation-industry", "KS Rep. introduces bill to boost aviation industry", "2019-11-24", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Kansas Representative Roger Marshall, M.D., and Representative Haley Stevens, introduced the Aeronautics Innovation Act.\nThis bill works to provide continuity and budget stability for U.S. aeronautics research through administration changes and political shifts in Congress. A main goal of this bill is to keep the U.S. aviation industry competitive as other countries catch up.\nKansas is known as the Air Capitol of the World, manufacturing up to 70 percent of the world's embedded aircraft fleet while creating nearly 50,000 jobs and approximately $10 billion in economic output, said Rep. Marshall. Growing up outside Wichita, I was well aware of the impact and importance the aviation industry had on my state. The U.S. has been a world leader in aviation research and innovation, and it is vital to maintain that competitive advantage not only for continued economic growth but for national security, space, and science technologies.\nWe are grateful for the leadership of Rep. Marshall and Sen. Moran in supporting the advancement of aviation and the work we do at K-State Polytechnic to further the development of unmanned aircraft system technology,said Kansas State University President Richard Myers.Their support will continue to ensure Kansas and the U.S. stay at the forefront in the research and development of advanced technologies for safe unmanned flight operations on a national and global scale.\nThis bill has been sent to a House committee for further consideration. As of November 24, this bills' text was not available for review.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2159", "Rep. Estes Announces FAA Grant for Newton City-County Airport", "2019-11-22", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced a $7 million Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant from the FAA to the City of Newton to reconstruct the taxiway at the Newton City-County Airport.While rail traffic is a visible mode of transpiration in and around Newton, air traffic continues to be vital to our region, said Rep. Estes. The grant from the FAA recognizes the importance of safe and reliable air travel through their Airport Improvement Program, and I'm thankful to Secretary Chao and the Trump administration for moving this important grant forward. The robust economy is enabling more passengers to travel by air so this Administration is investing billions of dollars in America's airports which will address safer operations, fewer airport delays, and greater ease of travel for air travelers, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. The grant amount awarded is $7,178,799. This is the second grant awarded by the Department of Transportation to our region announced this week, highlighting our growing area and the importance of the Newton City-County Airport to south central Kansas. Read more here. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/in-the-news/marshall-weighs-impeachment-hearings-new-legislation-honor-fort-riley-fallen", "Marshall weighs in on impeachment hearings, new legislation to honor Fort Riley fallen soldiers", "2019-11-22", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Kansas Congressman Roger Marshall contends the ongoing impeachment inquiry against President Trump is a sham.\n\t\t\tThe First District Representative says he's convinced after hearing Ambassador Gordon Sondland's testimony this week, which he says proves Trump's innocence.\n\t\t\tThere's only hearsay and conjecture, there's assumption and presumption but it's very clear that these two roads never passed, Marshall said. Yes the president asked him to investigate corruption, yes we were withholding military aide but the two roads never crossed each other. So I think the testimony, if you listen closely shows the president did nothing wrong.\n\t\t\tMarshall, a key ally of President Trump, says there is no evidence of a quid pro quo and accused Democrats of jumping to conclusions with no evidence, noting they've wanted Trump out of office from the moment he got elected. He remains confident that the Republican-controlled Senate will not remove Trump from office.\n\t\t\tThey (the House) are going to impeach this president, then it will be up to the Senate to decide if they should even hear it. But it's so outrageous and such a disaster of a process they may decide to not even hear it, and if they do they'll acquit the president but there's no way they get 20 Republican Senators to say Trump did anything that was impeachable, Marshall said.\n\t\t\tMarshall remains hopeful that Congress can get a trade deal done before the holiday recess next month and is hopeful members will be able to avoid yet another government shutdown. Currently the funding for the federal budget expires Dec. 20.\n\t\t\tRep. Marshall has had a busy week on the House floor.\n\t\t\tThis week the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the First Infantry Recognition of Sacrifice in Theater (FIRST) Act. Marshall authored the bill which will add the names of 660 fallen soldiers to the First Infantry Division Monument on the west side of the White House. Marshall tells KMAN not only does this honor those fallen soldiers, but it also gives their families some solace.\n\t\t\tTo know that there's a place that they can reflect upon and when they come into D.C. they can have a little more piece of heart to know their loved one did not die in vain, Marshall said.\n\t\t\tThe names being added include those who made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn (Iraq) and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan).\n\t\t\tThe monument in Washington, D.C. currently commemorates nearly 13,000 soldiers who were killed while serving in every war since World War I.\n\t\t\tMarshall this week also introduced a House Resolution that would develop a new national policy for aeronautics research.\n\t\t\tNew legislation proposed by Kansas 1st District Congressman Roger Marshall would develop a new national policy for aeronautics research.\n\t\t\tMarshall, along with Michigan Democratic Rep. Haley Stevens introduced the Aeronautics Innovation Act Monday as a bipartisan bill to provide necessary continuity and budget stability for U.S. aeronautics research through administration change and political shifts in Congress. Marshall tells KMAN some of the impact the bill is expected to have on the industry.\n\t\t\tSo this promotes research, especially in the wing design and the materials used to make these wings. So whether it's for a fighter jet or a Boeing jet or even in the drone industry, it's to promote continued research in those areas, he said.\n\t\t\tWith forecasts projecting the demand for larger passenger aircraft to double over the next two decades, Marshall says it's important the U.S. stays ahead of the curve in terms of research.\n\t\t\tWhat the wing composites are made of today is totally different from decades ago. They continue to get more efficient, safer, better gas mileage. We'll continue to do research to make it even better, he said.\n\t\t\tMarshall adds that given the history of aeronautics in Kansas, it could lead to more jobs in the state.\n\t\t\tThe legislation is a companion bill to bipartisan legislation introduced earlier this year by Kansas Senator Jerry Moran and Virginia Senator Mark Warner.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-encourages-advances-weather-forecasting", "Rep. Marshall encourages advances in weather forecasting", "2019-11-22", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Accurate and timely weather forecasts are essential for the long-term success of Kansas farmers and ranchers. As ranking member of the Environment Sub-committee of the House Committee on Science, Space,and Technology, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. has continued to advocate for advances in weather modeling and predictions, including partnerships with the private sector to ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of forecasting.\n \n\tThe impacts of severe weather events across this country have made it clear that the U.S. must continue to advance it's work in this area  potentially changing the way it models and predicts severe weather and natural disasters,said Rep. Marshall.Additionally, more pro-longed weather effects, like drought and flooding, can also play a role in the success of many industries, including agriculture. The U.S. has slowly fallen behind other countries in its ability to timely and accurately predict storms and weather events. That's not acceptable for our farmers, who rely on the weather reports to make planting and harvest decisions, nor rural families who need to know when to prepare for severe weather.\n \nIn 2017, Congress passed the Research Forecasting Innovation Act (the Weather Act) and reauthorized the National Integrated Drought Information System. The Weather Act was the first authorizing legislation to address weather forecasting in 25 years and prioritized improving weather data, modeling, computing, and forecasting. The legislation mandated the creation of the Earth Prediction Innovation Center (EPIC) to crowdsource the expertise of the private sector and research communities to improve forecasting models.\nThe week, the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Environment Subcommittee, heard testimony from experts on the work being done by EPIC and advances in forecasting models.\n \n\tI am proud of the work we have done on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee to advance our understanding of weather and create public-private partnerships to utilize all available technologies and experts,said Rep. Marshall. The Federal Government should be doing more to utilize the resources of private companies and university researchers, who are often the leading sources of innovations. In addition to having world-class facilities and minds, private companies and academics are extremely flexible in research development and cost-effective in their methods. It is in the best interest of Kansas farmers, ranchers, emergency personnel, and every day residents to have more accurate forecasts.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2158", "Rep. Estes Reacts to Speaker Pelosi's Announcement that USMCA May Not Get a Vote Until 2020", "2019-11-21", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement after Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a press conference today that a vote on the USMCA could be pushed into 2020. \"After months of pretending to care about the economic benefits from the USMCA for hardworking middle-class Americans, Speaker Pelosi today said that a vote on this bipartisan agreement could slip into 2020,\" said Rep. Estes. \"Farmers, ranchers and manufacturers in Kansas and across the country lose out on jobs and economic growth every day the USMCA is not enacted. This is yet another example of the majority prioritizing their hatred of the president over pursuing real accomplishments. Although they are consumed with impeachment, I urge my Democratic colleagues and the Speaker to put Americans first and let us vote on the USMCA when the House returns in December.\"  The USMCA was announced more than 415 days ago and has received broad bipartisan support from leaders in agriculture, manufacturing, business and politicians of both parties. Despite Speaker Pelosi's statement just last week that a vote was imminent and adjusting the House calendar for Members of Congress to stay in session for an additional week in December, it appears that USMCA may not be considered before the House adjourns in 2019. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-co-sponsors-legislation-support-rural-healthcare-providers", "Rep. Marshall Co-Sponsors Legislation to Support Rural Health Care Providers", "2019-11-21", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -Today, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., signed on as an original co-sponsor to H.R. 5212, the Accountable Care in Rural America Act, which would improvetheperformance standards for health care providers who participate inMedicare'sAccountable Care Organizations (ACOs), which are part of the Medicare Shared Savings Program.As a rural healthcare provider for more than 25 years, reforming our broken health care system has been a priority for Rep. Marshall since coming to Congress in 2016.\n \n\tAs a practicing physician, I served rural communities for more than 25 years. Despite greater distance, it's important that our rural providers work with one another to deliver their patients the quality and continuity of care that will ensure positive outcomes and reduce costs,said Rep. Marshall (KS-1).The Accountable Care In Rural America Act not only rewards providers who work with Accountable Care Organizations but saves taxpayers millions in Medicare expenditures. Changes like this will help ensure our rural providers have the resources necessary to continue delivering the best care possible, no matter their location.\n \nACOsencourage hospitals, physicians, and other providers to work together to lower costs and improve the quality of health care for patients.The rural glitch is a flaw in the program that forces all ACOs to measure their performance against themselves and disproportionately impacts rural providers, discouraging providers from participating.\n \n\tI am proud to introduce legislation that will change the incentives of our health care system to reward quality over quantity while reducing the cost to taxpayers over time,said Rep. Jodey Arrington, (TX-19), who co-authored the legislation. I am confident that this bill will empower rural health care providers, reduce costs to both patients and taxpayers, and strengthen the health and well-being of our families living in America's breadbasket and energy basin.\n \n \n\tMedicare's ACO program has shown significant promise to lower health care spending while improving the quality of care for seniors and we need to be looking at policies that encourage participation,said Rep. Suzan DelBene (WA-1), who co-authored the legislation.Fixing the rural glitch is a practical and meaningful change that will make the program fairer, especially for rural providers who can be disproportionately impacted by the current benchmark methodology. This change will also make it fairer for providers who are already delivering efficient care like those in Washington state. I believe fixing the rural glitch will encourage more providers to participate in the ACO program which will be a benefit to seniors and taxpayers alike.\n \n \n\tThis bill is critical for regions like Northern Californiaregions that are already ahead of the curve in terms of providing quality and efficient health care,said Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-7).This legislation rewards Sacramento health care providers for continuing to find ways to improve the health of my constituents, instead of the current policies that put them at a disadvantage because the region has been innovative in the past.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2157", "Rep. Estes Announces Department of Transportation Grant for City of Wichita's Multimodal Facility", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced a $14 million grant today from the U.S. Department of Transportation to the City of Wichita to improve many transportation services through a multimodal transportation facility. The center will contain transit amenities to handle connections from commuter service and connect to the downtown circulator and transfer points to routes meeting education, employment, and economic development that is key to the growth of the west bank area of the Arkansas River. The center will also serve as a quick charge area for the electric bus fleet, which is expected to grow, house Wichita's bike-share program, and includes nearly 600 parking spaces.\"As our community continues to grow and thrive, the need for Wichitans and visitors to efficiently move around our city increases,\" said Rep. Estes. \"Whether someone drives their own vehicle, utilizes public transportation, or travels to their destination on two wheels, the ability to safely get from point A to point B affects all of us and our commute time. I thank Secretary Chao and the Trump administration for recognizing our growing needs in south central Kansas and providing partial funding for this facility that will impact many of our residents.\" Rep. Estes led a letter of support for this grant to Acting Administrator K. Jane Williams of the Federal Transit Administration earlier this year. Together with Sens. Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran, they acknowledged the impact the center will have on more than 15,000 people in downtown, east and west Wichita. The facility's location, in Delano and on the bus route, allows connectivity to nearby universities, shopping, entertainment, and the new AAA baseball stadium. The grant amount awarded is $14,232,816. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-unanimously-approves-first-act", "House unanimously approves FIRST Act", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - The House of Representatives on Wednesday unanimously passed H.R. 1088, the First Infantry Recognition of Sacrifice in Theater Act, also known as The FIRST Act.\nU.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., authored the legislation that will add names of 660 fallen soldiers to the First Infantry Division Monument located west of the White House in Washington, D.C. The names being added will be of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn (Iraq), and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan). ClickHEREto see Congressman Marshall's remarks on the House floor prior to passage of the legislation.\nFollowing the bill's passage, Rep. Marshall issued the following statement:\n \n\tThe monument currently commemorates nearly 13,000 soldiers of the First Division killed while serving their country in every war since World War One,said Rep. Marshall.The monument has not been updated since the war on radical Islam began. By passing the FIRST Act today, we have ensured the 660 fallen soldiers of the First Division who have since paid the ultimate sacrifice, are memorialized in-stone and never forgotten.\n \nThe First Infantry Division, also known as The Big Red One, has called Fort Riley, Kan., home since 1955. The division has lead the U.S. into battle in every major conflict since WWI. The soldiers of the Big Red One exemplify the division's mission: No Mission Too Difficult. No Sacrifice Too Great. Duty First!", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-introduces-aeronautics-innovation-act", "Rep. Marshall introduces Aeronautics Innovation Act", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. has long been a leader in the aerospace sector, and the state of Kansas has played a vital role in the industry's development and long-term success. From manufacturing to innovation, aviation has been a backbone of the state's economy and growth.\nBut other countries have begun making significant investments and are accelerating their research and development in the industry. Forecasts show the world's demand for larger passenger aircraft will double over the next 20 years, generating thousands of new plane orders and investments in new aviation technology. This means the U.S. needs a clear vision and set of priorities in furthering its leadership in the field of long-term aeronautics research.\nOn Monday, Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D., and Rep. Haley Stevens, introduced the Aeronautics Innovation Act, HR 5136, to provide the necessary continuity and budget stability for U.S. aeronautics research through administration change and political shifts in Congress.\nThe legislation would strengthen the U.S. aviation industry and workforce in the increasingly competitive commercial aircraft market and establish a national policy for aeronautics research. It's impact would go beyond traditional aviation and sustain exciting and innovate work being done in drone technology and application, which is expected to have an additional $3 billion economic impact on the state.\n \n\tKansas is known as the Air Capitol of the World, manufacturing up to 70 percent of the world's embedded aircraft fleet while creating nearly 50,000 jobs and approximately $10 billion in economic output,said Rep. Marshall. Growing up outside Wichita, I was well aware of the impact and importance the aviation industry had on my state. The U.S. has been a world leader in aviation research and innovation, and it is vital to maintain that competitive advantage not only for continued economic growth but for national security, space, and science technologies.\n \n \n\tMichigan was home to one of the firstaerospaceengineering programs in the country, which began shortly after the Wright Brothers' historic flight in Kitty Hawk,said Rep. Haley Stevens.Today, Michigan'saerospacesupply chain consists of over 600 companies and organizations, powered by the highest concentration of engineers and manufacturing talent in the country. As Chairwoman of the Research and Technology Subcommittee, I know how important it is to continue investing in research and development to make our building materials stronger, lighter, more efficient and sustainable through innovative technologies such as composites manufacturing. The bipartisan Aeronautics Innovation Act will help us achieve these goals and maintain our leadership in theaerospacesector by establishing a national policy for aeronautics research.\n \n \n\tWe appreciate the leadership of Rep. Marshall and Rep. Stevens for introducing the House version of the Aeronautics Innovation Act that would authorize the NASA Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technology Program,said Spirit AeroSystems Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer John Pilla. Their bill supports efforts by the aerospace industry to drastically reduce the time and cost for design, technology development and certification of future composite aircraft. Authorizing an advanced materials program would build on the research conducted by NASA's Advanced Composites Consortium and would create opportunities to leverage Spirit's expertise industrializing composite materials.\n \n \n\t\"We are grateful for the leadership of Rep. Marshall and Sen. Moran in supporting the advancement of aviation and the work we do at K-State Polytechnic to further the development of unmanned aircraft system technology,\"said Kansas State University President Richard Myers.\"Their support will continue to ensure Kansas and the U.S. stay at the forefront in the research and development of advanced technologies for safe unmanned flight operations on a national and global scale.\"\n \n \n\tThe Aeronautics Innovation Act will play a key role in economic growth in the United States and is essential to ensure our leadership in this technical area in the future,said Dr. JohnTomblin, Executive Director of the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University.I applaud the leadership of Rep. Marshall and Rep. Stevens, as well as Sens. Moran and Warner for having the foresight to understand the impact aerospace sector plays. Investments such as these are key to maintaining the nation's competitive advantage in aerospace technology.\n \n \n\t\"The composites industry is thrilled about expanding growth opportunities in aerospace. These next generation structures will require the superior performance that composites are poised to provide. The Aeronautics Innovation Act will enable NASA and major aerospace manufacturers to collaborate directly with the entire composites supply chain - shaping future technologies that will ensure America remains the world leader in this sector,\"said Tom Dobbins, President and CEO of the American Composites Manufacturers Association.\"Our members commend Rep. Marshall and Rep. Stevens for introducing this bill in the House. We look forward to working with them, as well as Sens. Moran and Warner, to see this vision through to enactment.\"\n \nThis is the companion bill to bipartisan legislation introduced by Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Mark Warner (D-VA) in the U.S. Senate earlier this year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/sen-moran-cosponsors-legislation-to-support-air-traffic-controllers", "Sen. Moran Cosponsors Legislation to Support Air Traffic Controllers", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation  joined U.S. Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) in introducing S. 2898, the Continuity for Operators with Necessary Training Required for ATC Contract Towers (CONTRACT) Act of 2019. Today, there are 256 air traffic control facilities participating in the FAA's Federal Contract Tower Program, including Garden City, Hutchinson, Manhattan, Salina and two locations in Olathe and Topeka. These contract towers are an important part of our national air traffic control systemserving communities through a proven public-private partnership that increases safety and improves air traffic control services, while lowering the cost to the federal government and the American taxpayer.\r\n\r\nI'm proud to support our aviation industry by introducing legislation to remove an unnecessary barrier in the hiring pipeline for contract towers, said Sen. Moran. This sensible legislation would support contract towers across the nation, including the eight located in Kansas, by removing a financial disincentive which is preventing highly-skilled, experienced controllers from working at federal contract towers upon their retirement at the FAA.\r\n\r\nI am proud to introduce the CONTRACT Act today to encourage trained and qualified FAA Controllers to work at a contract tower without worry they will lose their hard-earned money, said Sen. Inhofe. This legislation will ensure these important facilities, including the six contract towers in my state of Oklahoma, are staffed with the most qualified, trained individuals available.\r\n\r\nContract air traffic control towers play a critical role in ensuring safe air travel in Washington state and across our country, said Sen. Murray. That's why it's so important to make sure our towers are staffed with the most qualified individuals to help keep our skies safe, and why I'm proud to join Sens. Inhofe and Moran in introducing this commonsense bill that will help remove unnecessary staffing barriers and allow our air traffic control towers in Spokane and across Washington state to attract the most experienced controllers.\r\n\r\nFederal contract towers face a unique hurtle to hiring trained and well-qualified retired FAA controllers. Because FAA air traffic controllers are one of several federal employee groups whose retirement is mandated at 56 years of age, retired FAA controllers are penalized for continuing to work as controllers at federal contract towers. These experienced retired FAA employees should have the opportunity to use their skills at a federal contract tower without facing a financial penalty. This legislation would eliminate that penalty.\r\n\r\nThe CONTRACT Act has received strong support from stakeholders. The U.S. Contract Tower Association (USCTA), the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) sent a letter of support which can be viewed here.\r\n\r\nContract towers play a central role in managing the safety and efficiency of our nation's complex airspace, supporting general aviation safety, the efficiency of large commercial airports, disaster relief and emergency medical operations, law enforcement and agriculture activities and businesses throughout the United States. In addition, many contract tower airports are located near or adjacent to military bases and manage a substantial number of military-related and national security operations, directly supporting the readiness and training of military units.\r\n\r\nThis legislation would remove the disincentive for retired FAA air traffic controllers to work at federal contract towers. Under current law, FAA air traffic controllers must retire by age 56. Because this is earlier than the normal retirement age, controllers are included as a \"special group\" under the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) and contribute an additional 0.5 percent of their annual salary into a special retirement annuity account. In return, they receive a FERS annuity payment during the mandatory retirement period between 56 and the social security minimum age of 62. The retired controller's special annuity payment is incrementally reduced if they earn more than the social security earnings limit of $17,640 (2019 tax year) annually. This annuity offset penalty results in many retired FAA controllers making the decision not work as federal contract tower air traffic controllers.\r\n\r\nItems to note:\r\n\r\n \r\nIn October 2018, a number of Sen. Moran-led provisions relating to contract towers were included in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018.\r\nFull text of the CONTRACT Act can be found here. \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/sens-moran-cortez-masto-introduce-legislation-to-combat-deepfakes", "Sens. Moran, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation to Combat Deepfakes", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.)  members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation  introduced bipartisan legislation to fund research into ways of detecting deepfakes. Deepfakes are online videos that are manipulated to realistically mimic a person's identity, and this legislation would help raise awareness of deepfakes and determine ways to combat the rising threat of this technology. The Identifying Outputs of Generative Adversarial Networks Act (IOGAN Act) directs the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to support research to accelerate the development of technologies that could help improve the detection of deepfakes.\r\n\r\nAs technology continues to evolve, so do the complexity and frequency of digital threats to Americans, said Sen. Moran. Deepfakes can be means for a variety of ill-intentioned uses, but the technology poses a specific threat to U.S. voters and consumers by way of misinformation that is increasingly difficult to identify. The Identifying Outputs of Generative Adversarial Networks Act will assist the federal government to effectively coordinate its efforts to address this threat by accelerating research and development of deepfake technology detection.\r\n\r\nIn the last decade, technology has completely revolutionized Americans' lives, said Sen. Cortez Masto. Yet that innovation also requires Congress to ensure that we have guardrails in place to protect our country from the malicious use of technology. Recently, deepfake technologies have been used to spoof the voices of leaders in other countries, to spread misinformation during democratic elections and to confuse and defraud consumers. I'm introducing the Identifying Outputs of Generative Adversarial Networks Act so that we can understand how to better identify deepfake technology, devise comprehensive strategies to stop it and to ensure we're educating Nevadans, and all Americans on ways they can protect themselves.\r\n\r\nThe IOGAN Act instructs the Director of the NSF to support research on the outputs that may be produced by generative adversarial networks, otherwise known as deepfakes, and other comparable techniques that may be developed in the future. Additionally, the IOGAN Act directs the NIST to work on setting measurements and standards relating to this technology, as well as develop a report on the feasibility of public-private partnerships to detect deepfakes.\r\n\r\nCompanion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Haley Stevens (D-Mich.) and Anthony Gonzalez (R-Ohio).\r\n\r\nFull text of the legislation can be found here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/senator-pat-roberts-discusses-the-impact-of-alzheimer-s-during-finance-committee-hearing", "Senator Pat Roberts Discusses the Impact of Alzheimers During Finance Committee Hearing", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today stressed the urgency of finding a cure for Alzheimer's during a Senate Finance Subcommittee on Health Care hearing titled, Alzheimer's Awareness: Barriers to Diagnosis, Treatment and Care Coordination. During the hearing, Roberts questioned: Professor of Medical Ethics and Health Policy and Neurology Jason Karlawish M.D., Chief Nursing Executive Janet Tomcavage, Professor of Gerontology Marc A. Cohen, Ph.D and Alzheimer's advocate Lauren Kovach.\r\nThere is still much left to learn about Alzheimer's and we must prioritize this crucial research. Nearly every person has been impacted in some way by Alzheimer's, either directly or through friends and family members, said Sen Roberts. I believe it's critical that we continue to encourage the development of innovative models of care and effectively communicate to the public the advancements that are being made on treating this disease and helping all those effected.\r\nAlzheimer's is unlike other diseases in the sense that there has not been significant medical breakthroughs leading to effective treatments and potential cures. Sen. Roberts questioned witness Jason Karlawish, M.D. specifically on the type of innovations that are being seen on the side of the caregiver that can improve not only the patient's life but the quality life for the patient's family, friends and caretakers.\r\nSen. Roberts discussed the Wall Street Journal article What Science Tells Us About Preventing Dementia and the possibilities mentioned of slowing the progression of Alzheimer's and reducing the risk of dementia. Roberts also stressed the importance of biomedical research and telemedicine being utilized to support Alzheimer patients in more rural areas of the country.\r\nWatch the video of the hearing here.\r\n\r\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/senator-pat-roberts-questions-fda-nominee-on-agriculture-issues-during-help-committee-hearing", "Senator Pat Roberts Questions FDA Nominee on Agriculture Issues During HELP Committee Hearing", "2019-11-20", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Releases \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today questioned Dr. Stephen Hahn, nominee for Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, about standards for animal health, biotechnology and CBD during Dr. Hahn's confirmation hearing.\r\nSen. Roberts and Dr. Hahn discussed the potential risks for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) from agriculture production. Roberts urged Dr. Hahn to continue using a risk-based approach to achieve the best outcomes for animal and human health.\r\nRoberts also questioned Dr. Hahn on biotechnology and updating the Coordinated Framework for the Regulation of Biotechnology.\r\nRoberts concluded his questioning by asking Dr. Hahn about hemp, which was legalized in the 2018 Farm Bill.\r\nThere are currently many questions about the safety of using these products, including interactions with other drugs, dosing and even manufacturing standards to confirm that what is in a bottle is the same as what it says and is not contaminated with other substances, said Roberts.\r\nFor video of their discussion, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-votes-against-growing-national-debt", "Marshall votes against growing national debt", "2019-11-19", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C- Today, the House of Representatives passed a 4-week continuing resolution, H.R. 3055, which, among other shortcomings, fails to adequately provide for America's armed forces and continues to increase the national debt by kicking the can down the road. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., votedNO, and issued the following statement:\n \n\tCongress has a constitutional duty to provide for the common defense, but the Pentagon has been operating under a CR 13 of the last 18 years, which is inhibiting military readiness. Our troopsneed consistency as they face adversaries around the world, which this CR does not provide. Additionally, this bill continues us down a path of unsustainable debt, the burden of which will fall to our children and grandchildren.\nDemocratic leadership has neglected to send the necessary appropriations bills to the President's desk. Democrats have been too busy trying to remove President Trump from office and are now cornering Members of Congress into a 'take it or shut it down vote'. Democrats seem to haveplenty of time for this impeachment charade, but not enough time to actually govern or uphold their constitutional duties.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/advancing-legislation-to-protect-athletes", "Advancing Legislation to Protect Athletes", "2019-11-18", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hello,\r\n\r\nWelcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.\r\n\r\nAdvancing My Legislation to Protect Olympic Athletes\r\nOn Wednesday, the Senate Commerce Committee approved the Empowering Olympic and Amateur Athletes Act that U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and I introduced in July to dramatically reform the governance and accountability structures of the U.S. Olympic movement. As the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee with jurisdiction over the health and safety of U.S Olympic and amateur athletes, our legislation was crafted following an eighteen-month investigation into systemic abuse within the U.S. Olympic movement. The joint inquiry includedfour subcommittee hearings, interviews with Olympic athletes and survivors, and the retrieval of over 70,000 pages of documents.The development this week moved us one step closer to the passage of our sweeping reform legislation, and I look forward to moving ahead on the Senate floor.\r\n\r\nI also gave remarks on the Senate floor following the successful markup that described the investigative and legislative efforts of this necessary legislation. Particularly, the thoughtful amendment contributions of U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) to the legislation further bolstered the accountability and oversight of the U.S. Olympic movement. The robust and bipartisan support of my Senate colleagues has proven to be invaluable to this process. My remarks can be viewed by clicking here.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nKeynote Remarks at the Wichita Chamber's Federal Forum\r\nOn Veteran's Day, I was honored to be in the Air Capital of the World for a Federal Forum hosted by the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, Friends of McConnell, the Greater Wichita Partnership, Wichita Independent Business Association and Wichita State University. During my remarks, I discussed the dangers of socialism and emphasized that we must work together to show the American people and those who fought to protect our way of life that we can solve our country's issues in a way that upholds the Constitution and provides individuals the opportunity to realize their potential in the greatness of this country. And we can look to Wichita for evidence of how free enterprise and the American Dream go hand in hand  where we can confirm that free markets and individual initiative, not socialism, create economic well-being. Upon the conclusion of my remarks, I was honored to receive the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Spirit of Enterprise award which recognizes Members of Congress who support policies that create an environment where businesses can grow and create jobs.\r\n\r\nThank you to Coleen Jennison of Cox Communications for the kind introduction. Congratulations to Pat Gallagher, Military Affairs Liaison for the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, who was recognized as the 2019 recipient of the prestigious Tampa Bay Trophy award. Created by the Tampa Bay Defense Alliance, this national award honors a civilian for sustained and enduring service as well as contributions to community, airmen and families of the United States Air Force. And special thanks to Colonel Richard Tanner, commander of the 22nd Air Refueling Wing at McConnell Air Force Base, for presenting Pat with this well-deserved honor.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nNASA Reauthorization Passes Committee, Includes My Legislation to Bolster Kansas Aviation\r\nOn Wednesday, I was pleased to support the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2019 and its passage out of the Senate Commerce Committee. This bill includes provisions from my Aeronautics Innovation Act designed to boost innovation, research and development within the aeronautics industry. The bill also included a provision that would authorize the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technology Program. This provision would grant NASA the authority to create an official collaboration project with the aerospace industry and academia that would build upon the success of the Advanced Composites Consortium, of which Spirit AeroSystems and the National Institute for Aviation Research at Wichita State University are members.\r\n\r\nMeeting with Officials from Dodge City and Garden City\r\nOn Tuesday, I met with leaders from the Southwest Kansas Coalition, including Dodge City Mayor Brian Delzeit and Assistant City Manager Ernestor De La Rosa, Garden City Commissioner Troy Unruh and City Manager Matt Allen. I appreciated our conversation on issues important to their communities and how we can work in partnership to advance the region. \r\n\r\nOne item of discussion was our nation's broken immigration system, and how too often we allow politics to prevent Congress from making meaningful progress. I believe Congress should deal with the issues that many Republicans and Democrats can agree on, such as providing certainty to DACA recipients and enhancing security at our nation's southern border. For southwest Kansas, services provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) are also critical, and I am eager to engage the agency on the need for more frequent mobile services to the region.\r\n\r\nTransportation infrastructure is critical to the economy of southwest Kansas, and I remain a strong supporter of the Essential Air Service (EAS) program and Amtrak's Southwest Chief route through the region. While significant progress has been made in recent years to secure funding and commitments from Amtrak for the preservation of the Southwest Chief, I will continue my efforts to ensure Amtrak officials uphold their commitments and passenger rail service connecting southwest Kansas communities and businesses to the rest of the country is successful and endures for the long term.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDiscussing Infrastructure with Overland Park Chamber of Commerce\r\nOn Thursday, I met with leadership from the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce to discuss the issues of importance to the city. One topic important not only to the city, but the state, is infrastructure. With FAST Act Reauthorization next year, the meeting gave us a chance to discuss the priority issues to the city and how we can ensure Kansas' needs are reflected as it relates to infrastructure. During the meeting, we also discussed trade, business development in the region and how we can work together to advance Johnson County and the surrounding area. Thanks to those in attendance for their productive conversation.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nKansan Michael Graham's Nomination to the NTSB Clears Commerce Committee\r\nOn Wednesday, I supported Michael Graham's nomination to be a member of the National Transportation Safety Board as it passed out of the Senate Commerce Committee. A Kansan, Mr. Graham currently serves as the Director of Flight Operations Safety, Security, and Standardization at Textron Aviation, where he has worked since 1997. Prior to his work in the aviation industry, he spent nine years as a Naval Aviator flying A-7's and F/A 18's as well as being an F/A-18 Aircrew instructor for Boeing/McDonnell Douglas. With a long and decorated career of service and safety, both in the military and as a civilian, Mr. Graham is well suited to be a member of the National Transportation Safety Board and I am proud to call him a Kansan. I look forward to Mr. Graham's quick confirmation and appreciate his willingness to continue to serve our country.\r\n\r\nSpending Time with Students of Salina's Sacred Heart High School\r\nOn Thursday, I met with students of Salina's Sacred Heart High School during their annual trip to Washington, D.C. During their visit, we discussed the goals and ambitions of these students, many of which included the desire to further their education in Kansas. We also discussed their trip to our nation's capital, current issues before the Senate and recent updates at Sacred Heart. Thanks to teacher and trip sponsor John Hamilton for his work and commitment to these students, and for inviting me many times to visit with his classes in Salina.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTouring the U.S. Space Command\r\nOn Friday, I toured the United States Space Command at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs. The U.S. Space Command is a unified combatant command under the Department of Defense that works to advance the United States' national security through the space domain. During our tour, we discussed the strengths and opportunities of Space Command, and current challenges being faced by the division. As an appropriator, it is vital to see first-hand how our decisions in Congress to allocate taxpayer dollars are being utilized to protect our national security. Thank you to Commander of the U.S. Space Command General John Raymond for the informative tour of the facility and productive conversation on the ongoing work to protect our nation from its adversaries.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLunch with Kansas Cadets at the Air Force Academy\r\nOn Friday, I was at the United States Air Force Academy where I had the honor of sitting down with a number of cadets and airmen from Kansas. During lunch, we discussed their transition from high school in Kansas to the challenging and rewarding environment of the United States Air Force Academy. These young men and women worked hard to secure a nomination and gain admittance to the academy, and their dedication, work ethic and intellect make Kansans proud. During our conversation, I thanked them for their current and future service to our nation. As future officers in the U.S. Air Force, they will help lead men and women in the work to protect our country.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nKansans in the Office\r\n\r\nCapt. John Erickson of Clay Center\r\nMayor Shawn Rizza of Atchison\r\n\r\nAcademy of Doctors of Audiology \r\nStacey Baldwin of Overland Park\r\nDana Jacobson of Overland Park\r\nAli Melliti of Overland Park\r\nKatie Petrosky of Overland Park\r\nTimothy Steele of Olathe\r\n\r\nBartlett and West \r\nKeith Warta of Topeka\r\n\r\nBring Our Troops Home\r\nMaj. Danny Sjursen of Lawrence\r\n\r\nBrummel Lawn\r\nFrank Male of Lawrence\r\nKarl Schottler of Lenexa\r\n\r\nCapitol Tour\r\nLinda Huston of Topeka\r\nMichael Huston of Topeka\r\nJeffrey Jarman of Lenexa\r\nZachary Jarman of Lenexa\r\nErica Lichtenauer of Topeka\r\nJaxtyn Lichtenauer of Topeka\r\nJohn Lichtenauer of Topeka\r\nKyan Lichtenauer of Topeka\r\nZayne Lichtenauer of Topeka\r\n\r\nCCAI Kansas Angel's \r\nJacob Bush of Lincoln\r\nLauren Bush of Lincoln\r\nPayton Bush of Lincoln\r\nSterling Bush of Lincoln\r\nScott Rigal of Lincoln\r\nTiffany Royal of Lincoln\r\nKevin Smith of Wichita\r\nMona Smith of Wichita\r\n\r\nCitizens' Climate Lobby \r\nAlan Bauman of Prairie Village\r\nJennifer Brown of Prairie Village\r\nAlisha Gridley of Wichita\r\nMark Shobe of Wichita\r\n\r\nCity of McPherson\r\nMayor Tom Brown of McPherson \r\n\r\nDodge and Garden City Representatives \r\nMatt Allen of Garden City\r\nErnestor De La Rose of Garden City\r\nBrian Delzeit of Dodge City\r\nDoug Smith of Topeka\r\nTroy Unruh of Garden City\r\n\r\nInternational Brotherhood of Electrical Workers\r\nRobert Bausch of Topeka\r\nRoger Beach of Tonganoxie\r\nChristopher Blarie of Topeka\r\nDavid Galvan of Topeka\r\nJohn Garretson of Topeka\r\n\r\nNational Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)\r\nJeff Long of Lawrence\r\n\r\nOverland Park Chamber of Commerce\r\nMike Hess of Stilwell\r\nMike Hockey of Overland Park\r\nBobby Olm-Shipman of Overland Park\r\nTracey Osborn Oltjen of Overland Park\r\nTony Rupp of Olathe\r\nKevin Walker of Olathe\r\n\r\nPrairie Band Potawatomi Nation\r\nJoseph Rupnick of Mayetta\r\n\r\nSacred Heart High School (Junior Class)\r\nSara Del Real of Salina\r\nKelsie Gack of Salina\r\nHannah Goetz of Salina\r\nJohn Hamilton of Salina\r\nNathan Ivey of Salina\r\nAlyssa Maya of Salina\r\nBryan Nauanlasy of Salina\r\nMason Richards of Salina\r\nGaby Rodriguez of Salina\r\nLauren Torrey of Salina\r\nJacob Wasserman of Salina\r\nKen Wasserman of Salina\r\nPam Wasserman of Salina\r\n\r\nPhysicians for Reproductive Health \r\nDr. Mae Winchester of Kansas City\r\n\r\nSociety for Human Resource Management (SHRM)\r\nJennifer Dowell of Wamego\r\nJessic Helt of Altamont\r\nSean Hudspeth of Wichita\r\nJanice Huffman of Emporia\r\nDavid Love of Leawood\r\nJena Lysen of Wichita\r\nCatherine McMillen of Liberal\r\nSuzanne McVey of Olathe\r\nAmber Neise of Wichita\r\nKristyn Reust of Liberal\r\nCindy Volanti of Manhattan\r\nSara Wildin of Wamego\r\n\r\nSpirit AeroSystems \r\nKimberly Caldwell of Wichita\r\n\r\nStronger America Through Seafood \r\nJesse Mitchell of Sabetha\r\n\r\nWichita State and Kansas PTAC\r\nTerri Bennett of Wichita\r\nScott Knapp of Wichita\r\n\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/letter-editor-vowing-fight-all-gun-control-laws", "Letter to the editor: Vowing to fight all gun control laws", "2019-11-16", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Published in the Wellington Daily News on November 16, 2019.\n\nAs a lifelong sportsman and gun owner, throughout my time in Washington I have fought tooth and nail to stop the creation of red flag laws, assault weapon bans and buy-back programs intended to chip away at our rights. I believe all Americans have a right to keep and bear arms and I refuse to support legislation that would strip that right away from law-abiding citizens.\nH.R. 838  The Threat Assessment, Prevention, and Safety (TAPS) Act referenced in your letter to the editor has nothing to do with red flag laws  of which I am firmly opposed. The bill simply sets up a Task Force designed to help local and state law enforcement establish their own threat assessment techniques, incorporating techniques that are already being used successfully by the U.S. Secret Service. This legislation was supported by the NRA, an organization with which I have a lifetime A+ Rating.\nWhen I entered Congress, I took an oath to defend and uphold the U.S. Constitution. Since then nothing has changed, and I will continue fighting against unconstitutional gun grabs by those who wish to abolish the Second Amendment.\nCongressman Roger Marshall, R-KS 1st District", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2151", "Rep. Estes Supports Transparency for Health Care Costs", "2019-11-15", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Ron Estes", "E000298", "estes.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced two rules to improve transparency in costs for health care:The rules announced today by President Trump provide needed transparency in health care costs, empowering patients and allowing families to plan for the future, said Rep. Estes. By requiring hospitals to publish their charges and insurers to disclose their rates upfront, patients can have the tools they need to make decisions about their health care and find the best option for them, before getting blindsided at the checkout counter after receiving care. I applaud this important step toward making our health care system more transparent and look forward to ensuring implementation of the finalized rule supports patients and hospitals, especially in rural areas. The Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) & Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) Price Transparency Requirements for Hospitals to Make Standard Charges Public Rule will require hospitals to publish online their gross charges, payer-specific negotiated charges, the amount of cash payment discount that a hospital is willing to accept, and their maximum and minimum negotiated rates. Additionally, hospitals will be expected to display online in plain consumer-friendly language the negotiated charges for 300 common shoppable services annually. The Transparency in Coverage Rule would require health insurance plans to provide consumers with real-time, personalized access to cost-sharing information, including their cost-share for all covered health care items and services, allowing consumers to compare costs between specific providers before receiving care. Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas' 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-remarks-usda-event-kansas-city", "Rep. Marshall's remarks at USDA event in Kansas City", "2019-11-15", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Friday, November 15, 2019, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., joined USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and others in Kansas City for a tour and press conference at the new home of the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and Economic Research Service (ERS). Congressman Marshall delivered the following remarks at the event:\n\tThank you, and good morning Mayor Lucas, Secretary Perdue, Governor Parson, and Senator Blunt. Mr. Secretary, welcome to Kansas City and to the region soon to be known as the Agriculture Research Corridor of the world. Thank you Kansas City for turning out for this event. From Columbia, Missouri to Kansas City, to Manhattan to Lincoln, this area is already known as the animal health corridor, which accounts for over 50 percent of the total worldwide animal health, diagnostics, and pet food sales. This animal health corridor is made up of more than 300 companies. This move places USDA's ag research and NIFA and ERS in Kansas City, and with NBAF's construction in Manhattan, this will truly be the world's leading corridor in ag research. It places USDA research where it belongs, in the heart of the world's animal industry and close to our land grant colleges which fuel and modernize the ag industry. Mr. Secretary, the leadership you and the Trump Administration showed in taking these agencies from the swamp to the people, getting government out to the people it serves, is an example of the innovative and service-minded thinking this Administration stands for. The secretary knows I often brag, I represent the largest ag producing congressional district in America, a brag I'll keep saying until someone knocks me off that hill. But today I want to emphasize how important agriculture is to the Kansas City Metro area. In the Kansas City Metro Area, agriculture, food, and food processing supports over 100,000 jobs, or 7.7 percent of the entire workforce in the area. These industries provide a total economic contribution of approximately $ 29 billion, roughly 22 percent of the local economy. As an example of the importance of ag to the K.C. Metro area, I can point to the BNSF facility in the K.C. metro area, where we export 10 million pounds of protein every week. Also, at that facility, the DeLong Company elevator exports nearly 300,000 tons of soybeans and dried distillers grains. The Kansas City Metro Area is home to several international grain trading companies, including Barlett grain, ADM, Cargill, Grain Craft, Scoular Company, and many others. And I can't go without mentioning, headquartered in the Kansas City Metro Area, the Fortune 500 company Seaboard Foods, which produces over 7 million market pigs a year. Mr. Secretary, I think what you'll find is like when you're home in Georgia, the folks you meet here in Kansas and Missouri will work hard, demonstrate their remarkable ability, and most importantly, be dedicated to the mission so important to our family, friends, and neighbors in agriculture. Again, Mr. Secretary, a big thanks to you and your leadership, for all you do for agriculture, for being a voice of hope to all agriculture producers, and fighting to open new markets. And next time you see the President, please tell him thanks, and that we will not let him down. We will make this the Agriculture Research Corridor for the world. Thank you Mr. Secretary for making this day possible and welcome to Kansas City. And now, it's my pleasure to introduce the senior senator from the great state of Missouri, a person who helped bring the USDA to Kansas City, the honorable Senator Roy Blunt.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-joins-sec-perdue-kansas-city", "Rep. Marshall joins Sec. Perdue in Kansas City", "2019-11-15", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Kansas City- Today, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., joined USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, Missouri Governor Mike Parson, and U.S. Senator Roy Blunt in Kansas City for a tour and press conference at the new home of the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and Economic Research Service (ERS). Congressman Marshall issued a statement following the event:\n \n\tThere is no better place in America for the USDA's new agriculture research headquarters to be located than in the Kansas City region. Known as the Animal Health Corridor, the innovation hub stretching from Manhattan to Columbia already has the highest concentration of animal health and nutrition companies on the planet. With the NBAF facility located in nearby Manhattan and all of the other agriculture focused industries and experts nearby, the region will be soon come to be known as the Agriculture Research Corridorsaid Dr. Marshall.The relocation of ERS and NIFA will build on the region's competitive advantage in agriculture and will make hundreds of good-paying jobs available to Kansans, which will in turn grow the Kansas economy. This relocation is only possible thanks to the efforts of President Trump and Secretary Perdue, who continue to deliver on their promise to prioritize American agriculture and revitalize the heartland.\n \nThere is already a ground swell of interest in jobs which will be relocated to the region, with 300 people recently attending a career fair at Kansas State University's Olathe campus, hosted by ERS and NIFA.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/brazil-implements-tariff-rate-quota-us-wheat", "Brazil implements tariff rate quota for U.S. wheat", "2019-11-14", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.- This morning, Brazil announced the implementation of an annual duty-free tariff rate quota of 750,000 metric tons of wheat imports.In March of this year, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., wrote to U.S. Chief Agricultural Negotiator Ambassador Gregg Doud, encouraging him to work to remove this trade barrier with Brazil.\n \n\tThis news from Brazil today is a big win for Kansas winter wheat producers, as this has been a trade problem for decades,\"Dr. Marshall said.\"Brazil has a growing population with a growing economy and winter wheat producers need access to that market. Secretary Perdue, Ambassador Lighthizer, and Ambassador Doud did a fantastic job delivering for American agriculture, as President Trump promised. I have advocated for this action from Brazil since March, and as we continue to work with our trade partners around the world on establishing new agreements, I will continue to support the Trump Administration in their efforts.\n \nBrazil is the 4th largest wheat importer in the world but has imposed a 10 percent tariff on non-Mercosur wheat for over 20 years, while ignoring a World Trade Organization commitment to open the duty-free tariff rate quote on wheat.Kansas remains the U.S.'s top winter wheat-producing state and applauds today's announcement as another opportunity to develop new international markets and customers.\n \n\tThe opening of the Brazilian TRQ represents a big win in challenging economic times for Kansas wheat farmers,\"said Taylor Williamson ofKansas Wheat.\"Due to the efforts of U.S. Wheat Associates and USTR representatives workingdirectly with Brazil on this issue, our farmers will now have the opportunity to compete on an even playing field, giving Brazilian millers and bakers high quality wheat that's an ideal fit for their market.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/marshall-focuses-improved-maternal-health-care", "Marshall Focuses on Improved Maternal Health Care", "2019-11-14", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON D.C.Relying on his 25 years as an OB-GYN serving rural communities, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., has used his time in office to serve as an advocate for strong maternal health care.\nRep. Marshall's work has been supportedby President Trump, Congress and the leadership at Health and Human Services (HHS) who came together to pass the Preventing Maternal Deaths Actof 2018last December to help states establish and expand Maternal Mortality Review Committees to better understand the causes of maternal deaths, including disparities in maternal care, health risk and patient outcomes.\nIn September 2018, Kansas launched its Maternal Mortality Review to better understand the trends associated with maternal and pregnancy-related deaths.It is astep toward collecting better data and determining more specific causes of death.\nRep. Marshall worked withRep.Ami Bera(D-CA), a fellow physician to author an op-ed on their hopes and visions of improving maternal health. In their article, Reps. Marshall and Bera discuss the potential impact of meaningful data combined with proper health care incentives, from conception through postpartum.\n \n\tStates and local communities have begun the hard work of learning where and how our society is failing moms..Congress and the Trump administration focused on helping states do this by passing the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act last December.Reps. Marshall and Bera wrote.This law is currently helping states establish and expand Maternal Mortality Review Committees to better understand the causes of maternal deaths, including disparities in maternal care, health risks and patient outcomes.\n \nDrs. Marshall and Beracontinue toexplain that current payment models can result in fragmented care,recommending that the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation consider payment models that incentivize health care providers to work together to protect the full scope of maternal care.\n \n\tArmed with the right data, we can begin to make smarter policy recommendations and clinical decisions that will address the gaps in prenatal and postpartum care. In addition, with the right incentives in place, we can improve the delivery of maternal care.Let's not miss the opportunity to do so,Reps. Marshall and Bera wrote.\n \nRep. Marshallwassupportive of the passageof The Preventing Maternal Deaths Act of 2018andhas continuously supportedrobust funding for various federal programs including theTitle V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, Healthy Start, WIC, and research at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. He also supports legislation that improves continuity of care for mothers.\nYou can read Reps. Marshall and Bera's full op-edhere.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/sens-moran-baldwin-introduce-bill-to-support-women-in-trucking", "Sens. Moran, Baldwin Introduce Bill to Support Women in Trucking", "2019-11-14", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.)  members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation  today introduced the Promoting Women in Trucking Workforce Act. This legislation would support women in the trucking industry and would establish a Women of Trucking Advisory Board.\r\n\r\nAs the trucking industry continues to face a driver shortage, we need to examine new ways to recruit and retain drivers that are delivering Kansas goods across the country, said Sen. Moran. Because women are substantially underrepresented in the trucking industry, Congress should explore every opportunity to encourage and support the pursuit of careers in trucking by women. I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan and sensible bill with Sen. Baldwin that will lead to new job opportunities for women and increase equality for women already in the trucking industry.\r\n\r\nIn Wisconsin, we make things, and we need to ensure we have a strong workforce to transport our goods to market, said Sen. Baldwin. Women currently make up less than 10 percent of the truck driving workforce, and removing the barriers that get in the way of women pursuing and retaining careers in trucking is key. I'm proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Senator Moran because more job opportunities for Wisconsin women will lead to more economic security for working families.\r\n\r\nBy creating an advisory board to utilize the expertise and resources of the Federal Motor Carrier Administration and the members of the board, we can increase the opportunities for women as drivers, technicians, owners, trainers and in other relevant career roles, said Women in Truck Association President and CEO Ellen Voie. I look forward to working with you and your office (Sens. Moran and Baldwin) in advancing this bill.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of the American Trucking Association, I write to express thanks and support for the introduction of the Promoting Women in Trucking Workforce Act, said American Trucking Association President and CEO Chris Spear. Your (Sens. Moran and Baldwin) thoughtful and timely legislation brings important attention and focus to the advancement of female representation and participation in trucking.\r\n\r\nSen. Moran and Sen. Baldwin's Promoting Women in Trucking Workforce would direct the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to establish a Women of Trucking Advisory Board. Under this bill, the board would identify barriers to entry for women in the trucking industry, work across organizations and companies to coordinate formal education and training programs and help identify and establish training and mentorship programs for women in the industry. The legislation also requires the FMCSA Administrator to submit a report to Congress on the board's findings and recommendations.      Currently, women make up 47 percent of the United States' labor force, yet represent 24 percent of America's trucking workforce and only about 7 percent of drivers.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nClick here to view a summary of the legislation.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/republicans-have-plan-patient-centered-health-care", "Republicans have a plan for patient-centered health care:", "2019-11-13", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Published in Roll Call on November 13, 2019\n\nOPINION The Republican Party will soon be known as the party of health care. You watch.  President Donald J. Trump, March 26, 2019\nThere's one thing everyone in D.C. can agree on: Our current health care system is not working, and it's high time we modernize it. But with health care such a deeply personal issue, it's no simple task. That's why we, the Republican Party, want you and your doctor to be in charge, not the federal government. This stands in stark contrast to the Democrats' plan, which calls for the federal government to completely take over your health care.\nWhether you're a young couple deciding where to have your first baby, or you're a son or daughter helping your parents decide where to go for Alzheimer's care or cancer treatment, you want to make these choices.\nWe both came to Washington to find a fix to these long-standing issues plaguing our health care system. To that end, we, along with our colleagues on the Republican Study Committee, have proposed a bold and innovative plan to help Americans obtain quality, personalized, patient-centered health care. The product of a year of research and stakeholder discussions, the RSC's Framework for Personalized, Affordable Care offers the American people thoughtful solutions that will increase choice, protect those with preexisting conditions, promote innovation and transparency, lower costs, and empower patients to be informed decision-makers.\nFirst and foremost, our plan will protect those with preexisting conditions in a smarter way than has ever been done. We do this through a belt-and-suspenders approach.\nThe RSC plan protects those with preexisting conditions and levels the playing field regarding taxes by allowing those who wish to purchase insurance on the individual market to do so tax-free  the same as we do for those who get their insurance from a large employer. To be very clear, we expand HIPAA's employer market protections to individual and small-group markets. This is the belt.\nAs for the suspenders, we provide for a responsible safety net of federally funded, state-administered guaranteed coverage pools. These pools would allow flexibility for states to design a plan that maximizes value and quality.\nOur plan will positively affect the approximately 8.4 million people currently enrolled in the individual market and the 27.5 million who still have no health coverage. These groups would benefit greatly from our efforts to drive down the cost of health care.\nAs detailed in the RSC proposal, our plan will drive down the cost of health care and positively affect all populations, vulnerable and otherwise, as well as help balance our federal budget.\nThe proposal unleashes health savings accounts and bolsters health reimbursement arrangements; expands access to direct primary care and telemedicine; increases options for association health plans and health care sharing ministries; and reduces barriers posed by state lines.\nThese policies will enable the health care market to operate like all others, by giving you, the patient, the ease you desire and the quality you expect from the American health care system.\nAnd through our plan, we are protecting Medicare, reforming Medicaid and strengthening all insurance markets.\nOverall, the RSC health care plan builds on what works and fixes what's broken. Implementing it would drive down costs in a meaningful and sustainable way, without shortchanging ourselves and future generations.\nAnd this is just the beginning of our fight to reform the broken health care system. As this is such a complex topic, we decided to break our proposal into two phases. The next phase will focus even more on transparency, as well as harnessing the power of information technology and mobile devices.\nThe RSC is committed to delivering onPresident Trump's visionof the Republican Party as the party of health care. We aim to do that by empowering patients and ensuring access to quality and choice.\nRep. Roger Marshall, M.D., is a Republican representing Kansas' 1stDistrict. He chairs the Republican Study Committee Health Care Task Force. He was previously a practicing obstetrician and gynecologist in Great Bend, Kansas. \nRep. Mike Johnson is a Republican representing Louisiana's 4thDistrict. He is the chairman of the Republican Study Committee, the largest caucus of conservatives in the House.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/moran-blumenthal-olympic-reform-legislation-approved-by-senate-commerce-committee", "Moran-Blumenthal Olympic Reform Legislation Approved by Senate Commerce Committee", "2019-11-13", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, the Senate Commerce Committee approved legislation authored by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT)  Chairman and Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee with jurisdiction over the health and safety of U.S. Olympic and amateur athletes  that would dramatically reform the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. The legislation will now be considered by the full Senate.\r\n\r\nMoran and Blumenthal introduced their sweeping reform bill in July following an eighteen-month investigation into systemic abuse within the U.S. Olympic movement. The joint inquiry included four subcommittee hearings, interviews with Olympic athletes and survivors, and the retrieval of over 70,000 pages of documents. Click here to read the senators' full investigative report, findings, and recommendations, and here for a one-page summary of the bill.\r\n\r\nToday, the Commerce Committee moved us one step closer to passage of our sweeping reform legislation. We are grateful to our colleagues who provided support and input in the lead-up to today's vote, helping us create an even stronger version of this legislation, Moran and Blumenthal said.\r\n\r\nWe could not have reached this moment without the community of survivors  athletes who traveled to Washington countless times, shared their stories, and demanded change. We told these survivors that while powerful institutions had failed them in the past, we weren't going to. We intend to keep that promise, and look forward to moving ahead with this legislation on the Senate Floor.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/editorials/improving-maternal-health-data-and-care-coordination", "Improving maternal health with data and care coordination", "2019-11-12", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Published in The Hill on November 12, 2019  \n\t\nAs physicians, we rely on data to improve our clinical decision-making in the patient's room, and as lawmakers, we rely on data to shape public policy. When it comes to maternal and infant health, however, health care providers and lawmakers have been flying blind with many lives at stake.\nMaternal deaths in the U.S. fell during the 20th century, but over the last two decades, health organizations warned we reversed course. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed these warnings, reporting that maternal deaths increased from 7.2 deaths per 100,000 births in 1987 to 17.8 deaths per 100,000 in 2011. The CDC also found that from 2007 to 2016, black women ages 30 and older were four to five times more likely to die from a pregnancy complication than their white counterparts. The Building U.S. Capacity to Review and Prevent Maternal Deaths project team also shed light on this critical problem, estimating that 63 percent of maternal deaths were preventable, ranging from deaths caused by cardiovascular and coronary conditions to hemorrhaging.\nStates and local communities have begun the hard work of learning where and how our society is failing moms, both those who die from a pregnancy complication but also the 50,000 women who experience severe maternal morbidity each year. Congress and the Trump administration focused on helping states do this by passing the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act last December. This law is currently helping states establish and expand Maternal Mortality Review Committees to better understand the causes of maternal deaths, including disparities in maternal care, health risks and patient outcomes.\nAlthough it takes time for the CDC to receive new information, real-time data from the private sector is helping to fill in the gaps. Premier Inc., a health care improvement company in partnership with over 4,000 hospitals, recently reported that deaths occurring in the hospital have declined by 24 percent over the last decade. In addition, the disparity between white and black mothers' outcomes has narrowed by 80 percent.\nThis new information examines a single site of care  the hospital  over a narrow three-day inpatient stay including labor and delivery. This data is insightful as 98 percent of births in the U.S. are in a hospital setting and it identifies where we've been successful. The CDC, however, measures maternal deaths more broadly using three periods: occurring at delivery or in the week after, occurring during pregnancy, and occurring 1 week to 1 year postpartum.\nKeeping women healthy during the prenatal and postpartum periods is so much bigger than just what happens during labor and delivery. Equipped with comprehensive and real-time data, we can have a clearer understanding of the many forces that influence maternal health and develop a roadmap to eliminate preventable causes of maternal mortality. So how do we ensure our health care system rewards those who keep moms alive and healthy?\nCurrent payment models are largely focused on services provided and do not incentivize care coordination across the many health care providers involved. This can result in fragmented, disjointed care that pinballs women among providers who work in different health systems. For better health outcomes and team-based approach, we encourage the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation to consider payment models that empower patients and their health care providers to work together from conception through one year postpartum.\nArmed with the right data, we can begin to make smarter policy recommendations and clinical decisions that will address the gaps in prenatal and postpartum care. In addition, with the right incentives in place, we can improve the delivery of maternal care. Let's not miss the opportunity to do so.\nRep. Roger Marshall, M.D., represents Kansas' 1st District. Prior to Congress, Dr. Marshall was a practicing obstetrician and gynecologist in Great Bend, Kan. He received his M.D. at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1987. Rep. Ami Bera, M.D., represents California's 7th District. Prior to Congress, Dr. Bera was a doctor of internal medicine and former chief medical officer of Sacramento County, Calif. He received his M.D. from the University of California, Irvine in 1991.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/honoring-our-nation-s-veterans", "Honoring our Nations Veterans", "2019-11-12", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Jerry Moran", "M000934", "www.moran.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Hello,\r\n\r\nWelcome to Kansas Common Sense. Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.\r\n\r\nHonoring Our Nation's Veterans\r\nRecognizing Veteran's Day\r\nAs we come together as a nation to recognize Veterans Day, we honor the incredible sacrifices men and women in uniform have made on behalf of our nation and for our freedom. America has been made exceptional by the enduring courage and bravery of our troops, who have waged war against our adversaries so that our country and world could remain more peaceful. We also are called today to rededicate ourselves to make certain that veterans are treated with the care and respect they deserve following their service to our nation, and I hope we all take time to reflect on the profound impact of our servicemembers, past and present. To all those who have served our country: thank you, we respect you and we love you. To watch a video message to our nation's veterans, click here.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDiscussing our Work to Support Veterans at the Washington Post\r\nI joined my colleague, Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.), this week for a Washington Post Live event, Veterans in America. During this event, Sen. Tester and I discussed issues facing our nation's veterans as we recognize their service this Veteran's Day. We primarily discussed mental health, suicide prevention and the importance of providing access to timely and quality health care to our heroes who deserve the best our nation has to offer.\r\n\r\nAs Members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Senator Tester and I introduced the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act to address the increasing demand for access to mental health care and various resources that can saves lives. Senator Tester and I also discussed the merits of this legislation on the live panel, which is named after a decorated Navy SEAL who lost his battle to PTSD in 2018. Our legislation would expand access to care for rural veterans using telemedicine, invest in non-VA organizations and healthcare programs, offer non-traditional mental health treatments like agritherapy, make investments in gender-specific services, and ease the transition of servicemembers into civilian life.\r\n\r\nWe also discussed the VA MISSION Act and how implementation that follows the intent of Congress will help veterans across the country access care through the VA and in the community. This landmark legislation improves access to community care for veterans and streamlines the cumbersome requirements that previously limited community care and the ability of veterans to receive quality healthcare close to home. Allowing Kansan veterans, especially rural veterans across the country, to seek care in the comfort of their community will improve the physical and mental well-being of those who selflessly served our country.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nChairing a Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing\r\nOn Wednesday, I chaired a Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing that considered two nominees for the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans' Claims. This Court was established in 1988 to review decisions made by the Board of Veterans' Appeals to make certain veterans receive the care and benefits they rightfully deserve. Just last year, the Court received 6,802 cases and decided 4,842 appeals. This caseload highlights the importance of the Court and the impact its decisions have on veterans across the country. The two nominees, Scott Laurer and Grant Jaquith, have accomplished legal and military careers and will serve veterans to the best of their ability once confirmed.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecognizing Veterans Day at the Manhattan American Legion \r\nOn Monday I joined members of the Pearce-Keller Post No. 17 of the American Legion and the Luckey Assembly Knights of Columbus in Manhattan to recognize Veterans Day. During the breakfast, it was an honor to speak to so many veterans from the across Manhattan whose dedicated service to our nation lives on through their service to the American Legion and a number of community organizations. Thank you to all those who organized the breakfast and for their continued work to honor and support our nation's heroes.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAnnouncing BUILD Grants for Infrastructure Improvements in Olathe and Ellis County\r\nEarlier this week, I was pleased to announce that a total of $16.5 million in BUILD grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation were awarded to entities in Kansas. This funding will go toward two vitally important infrastructure projects in Ellis County and Olathe, Kansas.\r\n\r\nEllis County\r\nThrough the BUILD Grant program, $6.5 million was provided to Ellis County for new resources to improve the Northwest Business Corridor. The resources provided in this grant will allow for increased economic development in the region and help existing businesses expand through improved infrastructure. The current roadway that is the Northwest Business Corridor was not designed for the volume or type of traffic driven by recent private-sector investment, and improvements along the corridor will help promote economic activity now and long into the future. Additionally, it will improve safety for travelers who take the corridor and increase access to businesses along the route. Click here to read more on this award.\r\n\r\nOlathe\r\nThe $10 million in funding was provided to the City of Olathe for the expansion and improvement of the I-35 and 119th Street interchange, otherwise known as the Interstate 35 and 119th Street Interchange Reconfiguration Project. One of the highest traffic volume intersections in the state, this area serves as the spine for KC's Gateway District and the completion of these improvements will allow residents and travelers to safely and more effectively access jobs, businesses and amenities in the area. Click here to read more on this award.\r\n\r\nSpeaking with Incoming Wichita State President Dr. Jay Golden\r\nAhead of his arrival to campus, I visited with Dr. Jay Golden. On Monday, Dr. Golden was named the next President of Wichita State University by the Kansas Board of Regents. Dr. Golden's background in developing partnerships between higher education and the private sector, as well as his experience growing universities, will serve Wichita State, Wichita State students and the entire region well. I look forward to work in partnership with Dr. Golden and to continue making progress on important issues facing the community.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSpeaking at the KU Cancer Center's 2019 Research Symposium\r\nI joined researchers from the University of Kansas Cancer Center for the Center's 2019 Research Symposium, and had the opportunity to offer remarks in support of their work which carries significant life-saving potential. In my remarks I underscored the importance of the research conducted at the KU Cancer Center, and how their work fits into, and furthers, a larger collaborative effort to defeat cancer. My efforts to increase resources available for the National Institutes of Health through the Senate Appropriations Committee is driven in large part by the progress being made at the KU Cancer Center and similar academic research institutions across the country. During his remarks, Dr. Jensen presented me with the 2019 KU Cancer Center Director's Legislator of the Year award. Thanks, Dr. Jensen, for this special recognition and for our close partnership in our work to advance medical research in the region. Robba and I are grateful for your continued friendship.\r\n\r\nI appreciate Dr. Roy Jensen, Director of the KU Cancer Center for inviting me to speak at the Symposium, and Dr. Christopher Austin, Director of NIH's National Cancer Center for Advancing Translational Sciences for addressing the symposium. As Congress continues to attempt to work out disagreement over appropriations bills, I'll continue to be a strong advocate for NIH to ensure that it, and its partners like the KU Cancer Center, receive the resources necessary to continue to make strides in cancer research in a timely manner.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMeeting with the Kansas Air National Guard\r\nOn Wednesday, I met with Airmen from the 190th Air Refueling Wing, a Kansas Air National Guard unit based out of Topeka, Kansas. These Outstanding Airmen were chosen by their chain of command to travel to our nation's capital to attend leadership development training and meet with national security and defense policy leaders.\r\n\r\nThese Kansas Airmen shared their work promoting mental health and suicide prevention within their units. We discussed the importance of providing a support system for our friends and colleagues who might be dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression. Suicide, especially by veterans and servicemembers, has become a national crisis so I was pleased to hear that the 190th AWR used a drill weekend to bring its Airmen together to support one another.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSpending Time with Kansas City Area Aviation LeadersFAA Air Route Traffic Control Center\r\nOn Friday, I spent time at the FAA Air Route Traffic Control Center in Olathe. During my time here, I heard about the operations of the facility and the work that the controllers do to get over 6,000 flights safely across our region every day. During our meeting, we discussed the detrimental impacts of a government shutdown on both the center's operations, and on their work to train air traffic controllers. I was pleased to hear their support for my legislation, the Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019, which would prevent future shutdowns from damaging this vital industry. Thanks to National Air Traffic Controllers Association local leaders Todd Mariani, Nathan Burch and Jami Davis for their informative tour, and to FAA Air Traffic Manager Christina Calvert for her leadership of the facility.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCollins Aerospace\r\nFollowing my time at the FAA Air Route Traffic Control Center, I was in Lenexas to tour Collins Aerospace. Collins is engaged in designing, manufacturing and servicing a multitude of systems and components for commercial, business and military aircraft. The men and women of their Lenexa facility produce aircraft oxygen systems and in-air beverage products, serving as a critical link in the aviation supply chain. Thanks to the many employees for taking time of their day and for their productive conversation. Thank you also to Collins Aerospace General Manager JP Foulon and General Manager of Beverage Products Sabastian Ramus for their tour.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMeeting with Members of the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce\r\nOn Thursday evening, following my return from Washington, D.C., I was in Lenexa to attend the Chamber of Commerce's After Hours' event that brings members together informally on a regular basis. During the event, I was pleased to visit with folks and discuss our work in the Senate, as well as recent developments happening in Lenexa and across Johnson County.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nKansans in the Office\r\n\r\n190th Air Refueling Wing, Kansas Air National Guard, Topeka\r\nSrA Erika Essman of Topeka\r\nSrA Matthew Ferguson of Eudora\r\nTSgt Tyler Wilson of Topeka\r\n\r\nAmerican College of Cardiology \r\nMohammad-Ali Jazayeri of Kansas City\r\nSteven Owens of Wichita\r\n\r\nAssociation of Molecular Pathology \r\nSam Caughorn of Kansas City\r\n\r\nCapitol Tour\r\nAmy Billquist of Shawnee\r\nMichael Billquist of Shawnee\r\nGreg Dietz of Wichita\r\nHelen Kovac of Junction City\r\nJohn Kovac of Junction City\r\n\r\nClose Up Foundation: Topeka Seaman High School \r\nSophie Billings of Topeka\r\nRandy Crone of Topeka\r\nKatie Dehn of Topeka\r\nEmma Dowd of Topeka\r\nLillian Fletchall of Topeka\r\nJace Reed of Topeka\r\nRachel Wilson of Topeka\r\n\r\nInterAction \r\nCarol Webb of Overland Park\r\n\r\nKansas Independent Oil and Gas Association \r\nEdward Cross of Silver Lake\r\n\r\nKU Vice Chancellor for Research \r\nSimon Atkinson of Lawrence\r\nJack Cline of Lawrence\r\n\r\nNational Society of Professional Engineers \r\nTim Austin of Wichita\r\n\r\n\r\nHonored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a letter, a Facebook comment, or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email byclicking here. You can alsoclick hereto contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office. Very truly yours, Jerry", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/usda-announces-next-round-mfp-payments", "USDA Announces Next Round of MFP Payments", "2019-11-11", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue announced last week the latest round of Market Facilitation Payments (MFP) to help farmers and ranchers deal with the continued impacts of ongoing trade disruptions and non-tariff barriers to exports.\n\tI applaud President Trump and Secretary Perdue for their continued commitment to supporting our farmers and ranchers, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D. said. This and all previous MFP payments are only band-aids for a deeper wound. I know our farmers and ranchers continue to struggle, but President Trump has already shown his commitment to opening new markets, and I am optimistic additional markets will continue to be opened for Kansas products.\nKansas farmers have benefited from previous trade aid payments and producers have until Dec. 6 to sign up for the program.\nLast month, China and the U.S. announced a tentative agreement on phase one of a bilateral trade agreement that will directly benefit Kansas producers. Work continues on the agreement with additional details expected soon. Additionally, President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe signed a trade deal in September, resulting in an additional $7.2 billion in agriculture goods sold to Japan.\nCongressman Marshall continues to advocate for the signing of additional trade deals, including agreements with Canada and Mexico under the USMCA, the EU and other Southeast Asian markets.\nWhile a definitive timeline for payments has not been set, Secretary Perdue was hopeful to have checks to producers by the end of November or early December. \nThis is the second year of MFP payments. Since the program was started in 2018, it has issued about $8.59 billion in payments to producers.\nLearn more about the program at:https://www.farmers.gov/manage/mfp. Contact Congressman Marshall's office in Salina or Garden City for assistance with applications.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://watkins.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-watkins-introduces-two-pieces-legislation-aimed-addressing-our-nation-s", "Rep. Watkins Introduces Two Pieces of Legislation Aimed at Addressing Our Nation\u2019s Veteran Suicide Epidemic", "2019-11-11", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Steven Watkins", "W000824", "watkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Press Contact:Dylan.Jones@mail.house.gov\n\nFor Immediate Release:\nNovember 11, 2019\n\nRep. Watkins IntroducesTwo Pieces ofLegislationAimed atAddressing Our Nation's Veteran Suicide Epidemic\n\nWashington, D.C. Rep. Steve Watkins (KS-02) introducedH.R.5029TheVA Suicide Prevention Services ActandH.R. 5030TheVA Suicide Prevention Services Accountability Actto address our nation's veteran suicide epidemic.H.R.5029 would require theDepartment of Veterans' Affairs (VA)to ensure that each VA medical center is staffed with at least one full-time suicide prevention coordinator.H.R.5030 would ensure accountabilityinthe VA's mental health and suicide prevention services by requiring the Comptroller General to: reporton the handlingofveteransconsideredhigh risk, review mental health and suicide prevention servicesprovided bythe VA, and report on effortsmade by theVA to integrate mental healthcare into primary care clinics.Rep. Steve Watkins issued the following statement:\n\nOn this Veterans Day and every day, it is important to not just honor our heroes, but provide them with the services and care they deserve. The ugly truth many of our heroes face upon returning to civilian life is that the battle is not over; depression, anxiety, PTSD, our veterans are facing a mental health crisis leading to a suicide epidemic.One veteran suicide is enough to warrant action, twenty a day deserves our utmost attention. Our veterans deserve better,said Rep. Watkins.I am proud to be introducing these two pieces of legislation aimed at addressing our nation's veteran suicide epidemic and helping my brothers and sisters who have served this great country.As a combat veteranmyself,and a Member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs,Iam committed to standing up for my fellow veterans and fighting to ensure our nation's finest get the care they so desperately deserve.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://marshall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-marshall-office-hold-medicare-tele-town-hall", "Rep. Marshall Office to Hold Medicare Tele-Town Hall", "2019-11-10", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Roger Marshall", "M001198", "marshall.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SALINA - The Office of U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall will be holding its second of three Medicare tele-town halls this Wednesday, Nov. 13, during the 2019 Open Enrollment Season to provide Medicare recipients an opportunity to speak directly with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) officials about their Medicare plans and questions.\nAs both a doctor and from helping my parents navigate the complexities of Medicare, I know it can get overwhelming. Whether you're a new enrollee or perhaps you're looking to select a health plan that best fits your needs, we want to help provide the information you need,Dr. Marshall said.\nAll calls are free of charge and open to all current Medicare recipients. CMS officials from the Kansas City office will answer calls and provide additional information about plans, costs, and changes in coverage opportunities.\nThe next Medicare tele-town hall calls will be held:\nWednesday, Nov. 13:10 a.m.  11 a.m. CST\nThe call-in phone number for all three calls will be:\nDial-in Number:877-229-8493  PIN:116489\nCongressman Marshall encourages all Medicare recipients to take part in one of the upcoming calls and learn more about Medicare and their options during Open Enrollment season.\nClickHEREfor a video of Congressman Marshall speaking about the upcoming tele-town halls.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/roberts-thune-peters-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-representation-for-agriculture-forestry-and-rural-sectors-on-faa-s-drone-board", "Roberts, Thune, Peters Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Representation for Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Sectors on FAAs Drone Board", "2019-11-08", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Pat Roberts (R-KS), John Thune (R-SD) and Gary Peters (D-MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)'s chief drone policy committee includes representation for agriculture, forestry and rural America. TheDrone Advisory Committee for the 21stCentury Actwould also ensure that the FAA provides representation for local government officials, including those from county and tribal governments, on the Drone Advisory Committee (DAC).\r\nDrones are becoming a part of everyday life for farmers and ranchers in not only Kansas, but throughout the entire country,said Sen. Roberts.This legislation would ensure rural Americans are included in the decision making process when it comes to drone policies that will impact their businesses.\r\nAs technology becomes more sophisticated, farmers will increasingly rely on drones to assess, monitor, and manage their farm activities, said Thune.Rural areas like South Dakota  where agriculture is the state's top industry  deserve to have a seat at the table when it comes to making decisions on drone policies and best practices. I'm glad to support this bill that would ensure representation from rural areas on the Drone Advisory Committee.\r\nAs drones continue to become a part of everyday commerce, it is increasingly important that our federal policies do not leave out the voices of rural Americasaid Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.Our bipartisan effort will elevate the voices of agriculture, forestry and other drone users so that our policies foster economic growth and continue to spur innovation. I am proud to partner with Senators Thune and Roberts on this commonsense legislation that will encourage broader participation in the development of federal drone policy.\r\nAs the drone industry grows at a rapid rate, it is clear intergovernmental collaboration and solutions are needed to protect the safety and privacy of our residents,said Matthew Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties. Across the country, counties are using this new technology for critical functions, including emergency response, infrastructure inspection, search and rescue, and mapping. We applaud the bipartisan efforts of Senators Peters, Thune and Roberts to ensure local governments are represented on the Federal Aviation Administration's Drone Advisory Committee. County leaders must be at the table, not just as stakeholders, but as co-regulators.\r\nTheDrone Advisory Committee for the 21stCentury Actwould also establish a public nomination process to help facilitate increased participation and broader user representation on the DAC, and would impose transparency requirements to ensure that the DAC's work becomes part of the public record.\r\nSince it was first announced in 2016, the DAC has never included a representative from the agriculture or forestry sector.\r\nThe legislation has the support of a number of organizations, including the Rural & Agriculture Council of America, American Forest Foundation, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, National Association of Corn Growers, United Egg Producers, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, American Dairy Coalition and the National Association of Counties.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.roberts.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2019/11/senator-pat-roberts-introduces-lifetime-learning-credit-enhancement-act", "Senator Pat Roberts Introduces Lifetime Learning Credit Enhancement Act", "2019-11-07", "2019", "2019-11", "Republican", "House", "KS", "Pat Roberts", "R000307", "www.roberts.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today introduced the Lifetime Learning Credit Enhancement Act, which would help make education more affordable. Senator Roberts introduced this legislation after leading the temporary tax policy taskforce which examined Individual, Excise and Other temporary policies earlier this year.\r\nThrough the taskforce, we discovered so many people are not taking advantage of the best educational tax incentives and are missing out on hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars of tax incentives, said Sen. Roberts. This legislation would simplify the tax code and make it easier for everyone, especially lower income families, to afford their education.\r\nCurrently, post-secondary (after high school) students are eligible to receive permanent tax credits including the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit. A separate incentive, the tuition and fees tax deduction, expired in 2017 along with a handful of other tax extenders. The Lifetime Learning Credit Enhancement Act would simplify the tax code to eliminate the deduction for tuition and fees in conjunction with an increase in income eligibility thresholds for the Lifetime Learning Credit, which would not only make taxes easier, but ensure taxpayers are taking advantage of the best tax credits available to them.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 731, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Republican", "p1": "KS", "p2": "2019"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS&year=2019", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 731, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=KS&year=2019", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS&year=2019", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 731, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS&year=2019&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS&year=2019", "results": [{"value": "KS", "label": "KS", "count": 731, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2019", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS&year=2019", "results": [{"value": "2019", "label": "2019", "count": 731, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2019-11-07,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eroberts~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2F2019~2F11~2Fsenator-pat-roberts-introduces-lifetime-learning-credit-enhancement-act", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=KS&year=2019&_next=2019-11-07%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eroberts~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2F2019~2F11~2Fsenator-pat-roberts-introduces-lifetime-learning-credit-enhancement-act&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 103.11647714115679, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}