{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"NV\" and year = 2015 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://web.archive.org/web/20160120194646/https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-opposes-omnibus-spending-bill", "Heck Opposes Omnibus Spending Bill", "2015-12-18", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today released the following statement after voting against the omnibus appropriations bill for 2016.\n\"During my time in the House the three items at the top of my priority list have been keeping America safe, reducing government spending, and getting Nevadans back to work. This bill falls short on all three. It raises discretionary spending above last year's level, marking the first time since 2011 we have failed to reduce spending, while continuing to under-fund our national defense. And although Nevada's economy has improved over recent years, I worry that tripling the number of H-2B visas for foreign workers will put Nevadans at a disadvantage.\"\n\"This bill contains sweeteners designed to give policy wins to just about everyone, but it completely ignores Executive branch attacks on our Western way of life. My colleagues and I on the Western Caucus pushed to include language to prevent the EPA from changing the definition of navigable waters and to block Department of the Interior's land use management plan for sage grouse habitat, both of which will have a profound effect on Nevada's economy. Those provisions were left out of the bill.\"\n\"Finally, recent events have eroded the trust between the American people and the federal government, especially where intelligence activities are concerned. Including the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act in this 'must pass' bill without public debate on the House floor only propagates this distrust.\n\n###\nCongressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1782f7fd-b39b-4222-b839-0bf36b85ba4c", "Numerous Heller Legislative Priorities for Nevada Passed in Final Days of Senate Session", "2015-12-18", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) announced many of his top legislative priorities, including numerous that will directly benefit Nevadans, were recently passed by the United States Senate earlier today.\r\nThis year, I worked hard to advance many pieces of legislation directly affecting Nevadans, and Im proud to see these efforts come to fruition. Since my first days on Capitol Hill, putting the interests of Nevadans first has been my top priority. Many of these priorities are reflected in the bipartisan omnibus and tax package providing tax relief for Nevadas middle-class families and small businesses. The Cadillac tax delay is also a strong win for 1.3 million workers in Nevada who would have faced massive changes to their health care. While the spending package was not perfect, I am pleased many of its provisions will directly benefit our state, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nThe Heller legislative priorities included in the tax extenders package are:\r\n1) State and Local Sales Tax  Earlier this year, Heller introduced bipartisan, stand-alone legislation (S. 126) with Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) allowing for a permanent deduction of state and local sales taxes. Nevada is one of several states electing to use sales taxes rather than income taxes to finance government services. The legislation helps level an uneven playing field by ensuring Nevada is afforded the same treatment in the federal tax code as states with an income tax.\r\n2) Mortgage Debt Relief Act Earlier this year, Senators Heller and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) introduced bipartisan, stand-alone legislation extending a provision protecting homeowners from having mortgage relief taxed as income, through 2016. This legislation ensured when homeowners work with their banks to reduce their mortgage payments, those homeowners will not be hit with a huge tax bill. Without this legislation, homeowners would have been required to pay additional taxes when they receive mortgage principal forgiveness on their homes or sell their homes in what are commonly called short sales.\r\n3) Conservation Easement  Earlier this year, Heller introduced bipartisan stand-alone legislation with Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) providing a permanent, enhanced tax incentive for family farmers, ranchers, and other landowners to voluntarily conserve land important for agriculture, hunting and fishing recreation, and wildlife preservation. By providing tax benefits to landowners who choose conservation, the bill helps preserve our nations farm lands and open spaces for posterity. In February, this legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives.\r\nThe Heller legislative priorities included in the bipartisan omnibus package are:\r\n4) Cadillac Tax Delay  Earlier this year, Senators Heller and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced bipartisan, stand-alone legislation to fully repeal a provision in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) known as the Cadillac tax,which taxes high-cost health insurance plans. Last week, Hellers amendment to fully repeal the Cadillac tax passed the Senate by a vote of 90-10. This spending package implements a two year delay of the Cadillac tax.\r\n5) No Yucca Mountain Funding  There is no new funding for the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository licensing included in this spending package. \r\n6) Five Year Extension of the Renewable Energy Tax Credit for solar energy with Commence Construction  This legislation facilitated the expansion of solar energy development by extending the Investment Tax Credit in Sections 48 and 25D for five years and modifying the Section 48 credit from a placed in service to a commence construction standard of eligibility. These provisions, which Senator Heller introduced legislation in the 113th Congress on and put forth in the Finance Committee this year, would spur the development of both large-scale solar projects  which take multiple years to permit, finance, construct and place in service  and rooftop solar power.\r\n7) RIDE Act  This legislation contains the ROV in-Depth Examination (RIDE) Act (S.1040), that Senators Dean Heller and Joe Manchin (D-WV) introduced and navigated to passage inthe Senate Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee earlier this year. The provision prevents the Consumer Product Safety Commission from imposing its flawed proposed lateral stability and vehicle handling regulations on Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROVs).This regulation could have unintended safety consequences, limiting these vehicles ability to access difficult terrain. ROVs are frequently used by Nevadans to access remote areas throughout the state.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20160120034953/https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-backs-house-tax-extender-bill-touts-provisions-good-nevadans", "Heck Backs Tax Extender Bill, Touts Provisions Good for Nevadans", "2015-12-17", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON -- Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today supported House passage of a year-end tax extender bill, touting a number of provisions of critical importance to Nevadans.\nThose provisions include a permanent extension of the state and local sales tax deduction, K-12 teacher classroom expenses deduction, and the section 179 deduction used by small businesses to expense certain business assets. Also included in the bill is a two year extension of mortgage debt forgiveness and the deduction for higher education tuition and related expenses.\nIn addition to the tax extension provisions, the bill contains reforms to increase accountability at the IRS and makes improvements to the 529 college savings program.\n\"This tax extender package is good for Nevada families and small businesses,\" Rep. Heck said. \"By providing stability and predictability over their tax bills, families and businesses will be able to plan for the future. This new environment of certainty will help create a healthy Nevada economy.\" \n  On the permanent extension of the state and local sales tax deduction:\n\"Nevadans rely on the state and local sales tax deduction to lessen their tax burden and now they can rest assured that this deduction will not be eliminated. This is good for our economy and gives Nevadans an early Christmas present.\"\n  On the two year extension of mortgage debt forgiveness:\n\"While Nevada's housing market is improving, there are still so many who are underwater on their homes and going through the short sale process. These families simply cannot afford to be taxed on income they never receive. The provision in this bill is an improvement over last year's retro-active extension, assuring homeowners who are underwater and trying to refinance or sell short that they have time to get their affairs in order without worrying about being hit with an unfair tax bill.\"\n  On the permanent extension of the K-12 classroom expenses deduction:\n\"Our teachers work hard to educate the future leaders of our state, often paying out of their own pocket when school budgets get tight. This permanent extension sends them the signal that we appreciate all they do for our students and communities by allowing them to expense both classroom expenses and professional development courses. This provision is a win for our teachers and our students.\" \n  Congressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=141aa125-ccc0-4873-bf03-2f3328ecf0a1", "CONGRATULATING VIRGIL COURNEYA", "2015-12-17", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING VIRGIL COURNEYA\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nDecember 17, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Virgil Courneya on being selected as National President of the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA). It gives me great pleasure to recognize his achievement in being selected to lead an organization that does so much for our nations military community.\r\n\r\nMr. Courneya enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1972 and served his country for nearly a quarter-century. Throughout his military career, he received numerous assignments across the country, where he served in California, Nevada, North Carolina, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania. He also served overseas in Japan and Bolivia. Before retiring in 1996, he achieved the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. Mr. Courneyas service is invaluable to our country, and I am grateful for the sacrifices he made for our freedoms.\r\nThe FRA is a congressionally-chartered military and veterans service organization that serves active members and veterans of the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. In his new role, Mr. Courneya will work to strengthen the organization and increase national recognition of the work being done by the FRA on behalf of our nations heroes. He will also serve as an advocate for the issues important to Sea Service members and their families.\r\nMr. Courneya has been a member of the FRA since 1982 and is currently a member of the FRA Branch 274 in Reno. Throughout his service to this organization, he has held numerous important roles on the local, regional, and national levels, including serving as both the Associations West Coast Regional President from 2004 to 2006 and National Vice President from 2012 to 2013.\r\nI am grateful for Mr. Courneyas many contributions to Sea Service members and veterans throughout our nation and state. His actions represent only the greatest of Nevadas values and place him among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly defended our nation. I would also like to recognize his wife, Helen, who was selected as the National President of the Auxiliary. Our state is fortunate to have role models such as Mr. and Mrs. Courneya serving Nevadas brave.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I recognize Congress has a responsibility not only to honor the brave individuals who serve our nation, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home. I remain committed to upholding this promise for veterans in our state and across the country. I am grateful to have Nevadans like Mr. Courneya working towards a common goal: fighting to ensure the needs of our military community are met.\r\nMr. Courneya has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of the United States Marine Corps. I extend my greatest gratitude for his service to defending our freedom and his work on behalf of the FRA. I am humbled and honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Courneya on being selected as National President of this important organization.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1c3246cf-ff1c-4095-acb1-6924767f002b", "Heller, Heinrich Deliver Two-Year Cadillac Tax Delay", "2015-12-16", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, United States Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) released the following statements after the recently released bipartisan bill to provide responsible tax relief to American families included a two-year delay on the Cadillac tax.\r\nThis is a great start, but we cannot ignore the fact that middle class Americans will still bear the burden of a 40 percent excise tax. For the next two years, we will use this victory as momentum toward fully repealing the Cadillac tax.Id like to thank my colleague Senator Martin Heinrich for his support in this endeavor. However, we both recognize there still remains much work ahead to repeal the Cadillac tax, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nDelaying this excise tax is a victory for the middle class as we continue to fight for its full repeal.I'm proud to join Senator Heller in leading this bipartisan effort to ensure millions of middle-class families who rely on employer-based health care aren't unfairly penalized because of this tax, said Senator Martin Heinrich.Even the strongest supporters of the Affordable Care Act know it isnt perfect and that there are some parts that need to be fixed.Eliminating this onerous tax on employees health coverage will protect important benefits for workers and ensure that businesses and families get a fair deal.\r\nBACKGROUND:\r\nThis will be the second time in two weeks Congress has shown strong bipartisan support for repealing or delaying this bad tax.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=19db33e1-d94f-4f72-b476-e499a1a9fbf9", "RECOGNIZING CARSON TAHOE HEALTHS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER ON ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY", "2015-12-10", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING CARSON TAHOE HEALTHS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER ON ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nDecember 10, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize the 10th anniversary of Carson Tahoe Healths (CTH) acclaimed Regional Medical Center.\r\nOver the past decade, this center has grown to be one of northern Nevadas leading health care facilities. Most recently, the Carson Tahoe Sierra Surgery department of the Regional Medical Center received the HealthInsight Hospital Quality Award for its top-tier care and patient satisfaction. The center has been recognized through a variety of accolades for its cutting-edge medical expertise and incredible patient care. I am proud to see this facility in Nevada recognized on a national level for its high-quality medical treatment. \r\nSince the Medical Centers opening, those working within the facility have gone above and beyond to provide northern Nevadans with the best health care. The staff has spent countless hours further expanding health-care services for Nevadans. The Medical Center has developed a premier open heart and endovascular surgery program and a Women and Childrens Center with a five-star rating. The facility has also secured an affiliation with the University of Utah Health Care and Huntsman Cancer Institute, which significantly increases care options for Nevadans. The center is acknowledged for its complete cancer treatment, intervention, support, and after-care and provides 153 beds for Silver State residents. The staff is comprised of 240 board-certified physicians that cover an array of 35 medical specialties. The northern Nevada community is fortunate to have this incredible Medical Center ready to help with its medical needs.\r\nFor the past decade, CTHs Regional Medical Center has provided residents across northern Nevada with top-notch and innovative health care options. The hard work of those that have helped grow this facility is greatly appreciated. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Regional Medical Center on its 10th anniversary and in thanking those that work within the facility helping to save lives.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=8f7c1e72-18b2-4b68-88df-122307d0f83e", "RECOGNIZING THE SOUTHERN NEVADA CHAPTER OF THE MILITARY OFFICERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY", "2015-12-10", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING THE SOUTHERN NEVADA CHAPTER OF THE MILITARY OFFICERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nDecember 10, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate the Southern Nevada Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America on reaching a significant milestone of 50 years of service in our state. It gives me great pleasure to recognize this entity that does so much for Nevadas veterans, activity military members, and their families.\r\nFor half a century, the Southern Nevada Chapter has provided Southern Nevadas military community with an incredible support system to address a diverse range of veterans and active military members issues. The organization offers our nations brave men and women advice and guidance on compensation and benefits, as well as raises money to benefit Wounded Warriors, ROTC scholarships, and other entities helping our heroes who have defended our freedoms. The Southern Nevada Chapter spearheaded the Veterans Court Program, which gives veterans a second chance and helps to expunge misdemeanors from their records, so long as they participate in a rehabilitation program, perform community service, and maintain a positive lifestyle.\r\nSouthern Nevadas military community is fortunate to have this Chapter working as an ally to improve the lives of veterans. The organization also advocates on behalf of Americas national defense, an issue I believe is crucial for our country. I am grateful to each and every member of this organization for their service and sacrifice in defending our nation. There is no way to adequately thank the men and women who sacrifice their lives for our freedoms. Their service is invaluable to our country.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I have had no greater honor than the opportunity to engage with the men and women who served in our nation's military. I recognize Congress has a responsibility not only to honor the brave individuals who serve our nation, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home.I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation. I am grateful to have organizations like the Southern Nevada Chapter working towards a common goal: fighting to ensure the needs of our veterans are met.\r\nToday, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing the Southern Nevada Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, an organization with a noble and charitable mission. I am humbled and honored to recognize its 50th anniversary, and I wish to thank all of the hard-working members for everything they do.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1bfd28fe-5946-4aea-907e-e18d7cdd368e", "Heller, Cardin Offer No-Cost Bipartisan Plan to Expedite Home-Based Therapy Services for Medicare Patients", "2015-12-09", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-Nev.) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.) have joined together on a no-cost, bipartisan bill to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries receive timely access to essential home health therapy services. The Medicare Home Health Flexibility Act of 2015 (S. 2364) would allow occupational therapists to perform the initial home health assessment in cases in which occupational therapy is ordered by the physician, along with speech language pathology and/or physical therapy services, and skilled nursing care is not required.\r\nIn states like Nevada with many rural communities, Medicare beneficiaries depend on in-home occupational therapy. Unfortunately, there are barriers prohibiting them from receiving needed-treatment. The Medicare Home Health Flexibility Act is a simple fix that eliminates barriers, increases access, and reduces costs for those dependent on in-home health services, said Senator Heller. I am proud to work with Senator Cardin, and I look forward to working with him to move this important legislation through the Senate.\r\nDelays in therapy can mean delays in recovery for seniors in need, said Senator Cardin, a member of the Senate Finance Health Care Subcommittee. By permitting occupational therapists to perform initial home health assessments in limited circumstances, the Medicare Home Health Flexibility Act can help prevent delays in Medicare beneficiaries receiving essential home health therapy services. This is especially important in areas where access to physical therapists and speech language pathologists may be limited.\r\nThe full text of the Medicare Home Health Flexibility Act of 2015 (S. 2364) can be found here.\r\nOccupational therapy is frequently ordered as part of a physicians plan of care for patients requiring home health services, and, under certain circumstances, an occupational therapist is allowed to perform the comprehensive assessment to determine a Medicare beneficiarys continuing need for home health therapy services. However, under current Medicare law, occupational therapists are not permitted to conduct the initial assessment for home health cases, even when occupational therapy is included in the physicians order and when the case is exclusively related to rehabilitation therapy. Under S. 2364, nurses would still be required to conduct the initial assessment for all home health cases in which skilled nursing care is ordered by the physician. The Medicare Home Health Flexibility Act would not alter the existing criteria for establishing eligibility for the Medicare home health benefit.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=35d3f47f-2d86-4872-8173-307a0c8228b9", "Heller, Gillibrand & Feinstein Announce Senate Passage of Key Provisions to Help Protect Children From Sexual Abuse in Final Bipartisan Education Bill", "2015-12-09", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "New Provisions Will Help Fund Erins Law Programs: Age-Appropriate Lessons for Students, Information for Parents and Guardians, & School Personnel on Recognizing and Reporting Sexual Abuse in States Across Country \r\nAfter 85-12 Vote, Education Bill Will Head to the President to Become Law \r\nWashington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) today announced that the Senate passed key provisions from their bipartisan legislation to help protect children from sexual abuse by funding school programs that provide age-appropriate lessons to primary and secondary school students, as well as information to parents, guardians, and teachers, on how to recognize and safely report sexual abuse. These provisions, based on the Child Sexual Abuse Awareness and Prevention Act and the Helping Our Schools Protect Our Children Act, were included in the bill to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the Every Student Succeeds Act. It passed the Senate today by a margin of 85-12.\r\nTwenty-six states have passed a version of Erins Law, legislation that encourages or requires public schools to provide child sexual abuse prevention education to students, information to parents and guardians, and professional development for school personnel. The Every Student Succeeds Act passed today includes provisions championed by Heller, Gillibrand and Feinstein that enable school districts to use federal grant funding to develop and implement these programs for students, parents and guardians, teachers, and other school personnel. In 2013, there were a total of 60,956 instances of child sexual abuse reported to Child Protective Services agencies in the U.S. However, this estimate only represents cases of child sexual abuse reported to and confirmed by child protection authorities. Many such cases are never reported to welfare or legal systems.\r\nAs a father, grandfather, and an outspoken advocate on behalf of the safety and well-being of our nations children, I am extremely grateful that fundamental provisions of the Child Sexual Abuse Awareness and Prevention Act are now headed to the Presidents desk to be signed into law. Our legislation helps protect Americas students by providing local school districts with resources to develop or enhance child sexual abuse awareness and prevention efforts, said Senator Dean Heller. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in an environment free from abuse, which is why I am proud to work with Senators Gillibrand and Feinstein on this important issue.\r\nThe Senate has recognized the critical importance of teaching our children an age-appropriate understanding of sexual abuse  both how to recognize it and how to safely report it, said Senator Gillibrand. Erins Law would give schools the resources they need to teach children these necessary safety skills. It fills an important gap in our prevention and awareness work, and it would make sure that schools are able to provide parents, guardians, and school personnel with the tools they need to help prevent and respond to child sexual abuse.\r\nSexual abuse can scar children for life and we must do everything we can to prevent it, said Senator Feinstein. Children are more likely to heal if abuse is detected early, which is why we must ensure they are taught what to do if they are being abused and school personnel are trained to spot the warning signs.\r\n\"For five years I have been traveling from one state capital to another trying to pass Erin's law in my mission of all fifty states requiring that personal body safety be taught, said Erin Merryn, Erins Law Founder and President. The biggest hurdle I face in each state is Erin's law being an unfunded mandate. It is my biggest road block. With this bill passing it will play a significant role in Erin's law getting passed in the next 24 states. This funding will be an answer to my prayers in my biggest battle for Erin's law. Kids lives are waiting to be saved and we must educate them. I didn't have a voice but I am going to ensure every child in America has theirs.\r\nAdditional Heller Provisions Included in Final Passage:\r\n \r\nSenator Heller teamed with Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) on an amendment to require governors of states to be consulted during the development of a state education plan to improve education and workforce readiness. Governor Brian Sandoval (R-NV) applauded the amendment with this statement.\r\nSenator Heller cosponsored Senator Pat Toomeys (R-PA) amendment, which prohibits federal funds from going to schools that help an employee or contractor get a new job when there is credible information that the individual engaged in sexual misconduct with a minor.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=c3590b41-c2a9-415c-8675-4c5ab0163f18", "Heller Pushes to Repeal Cadillac Tax by End of Year", "2015-12-09", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor in a colloquy with Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), urging his colleagues to support their efforts to repeal the Cadillac tax by the end of the year.\r\nBackground: \r\nIn September, Senators Heller and Heinrich introduced S. 2045, which fully repeals the Affordable Care Acts Cadillac tax. The two Senators introduced the Senate companion to Congressman Joe Courtneys (D-CT02) House legislation. Beginning in 2018, the Cadillac tax will tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,500 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits. In Nevada alone, 1.3 million workers who have employer-sponsored health insurance plans will be hit by this tax.\r\nLast week, Senator Heller filed an amendment to fully repeal the Cadillac tax. This amendment reflects the same goal as S. 2045 and passed the Senate by a vote of 90-10.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7416533b-ac29-4cce-81de-58fa3cac699e", "Statement on DOTs Inclusion of Crash Avoidance Technology in 5-Star Auto Ratings", "2015-12-08", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Announcement Follows Passage of Multi-Year Transportation Bill with a Mandate to Incorporate Crash Avoidance Systems in 5 Star Program Car Window Stickers\r\n(Washington, DC)U.S. Sen. Dean Heller (R-Nev.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, along with Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Commerce Committee, and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), a fellow member of the Commerce Committee, released the following statements on the Department of Transportations announcement it will begin the rulemaking process for incorporating crash avoidance technology into its 5-Star crash rating program that helps make individuals who are shopping for an automobile aware of the crashworthiness and safety technologies that can prevent accidents as part of the window sticker thats displayed on new vehicles.   When ideas in Congress serve as catalysts for positive change for American consumers, its a sign were doing our job on Capitol Hill. Im pleased to see NHTSA moving forward with a plan to modernize the New Car Assessment Program, as required by our Safety Through Informed Consumers Act, enacted as part of the transportation bill. Incorporating active safety technologies into the program is a great step toward ensuring technologies to prevent crashes are prioritized just like the ones that protect you when an accident occurs. Id like to thank my colleague Sen. John Thune for his leadership and collaboration as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, said Heller.\r\nI congratulate Sen. Heller, Sen. Markey and the House members who co-sponsored the Safety Through Informed Consumers Act that began the effort to include innovative crash avoidance technology in a government safety rating system that currently only considers crash test results, said Thune. The Department of Transportations announcement follows Senate and House passage of a new mandate in the long-term transportation bill that the president signed into law last week to incorporate innovative safety technology into the 5-Star program. This update is a win both for consumers and innovators  highlighting a vehicles advanced safety systems will allow consumers to make informed purchasing decisions, and in turn, spur greater use of these potentially-lifesaving technologies.\r\nNHTSA gets a gold star for taking this important step to modernize its5-Star crash rating program, said Markey.Consumers trust auto window-sticker safety ratings when they compare vehicles, and incorporating featureslike collision warning and automatic emergency braking will tellconsumers how safe their vehicles really are.I thank Senator Heller for his partnership on this issue, and look forward to working together to ensure NHTSA fully and quickly implements the provisions of the transportation bill from ourSafety Through Informed Consumers Actthat will help protect drivers and their families.\r\n   The 5-Star Safety Ratings System was created by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) to provide consumers with information about the crash protection and rollover safety of new vehicles. The program encourages manufacturers to design safer vehicles by giving them safety ratings that can be used by consumers to compare vehicles when shopping for a new car. The safety ratings are posted prominently on the window stickers required to be displayed on all new vehicles.\r\nInnovative safety technologies, such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, blind spot detection, and assisted braking, are rapidly being developed, improved, and deployed on new automobiles.These types of technologies can save lives by preventing accidents altogether. Sen. Heller introduced S. 1535, the Safety Through Informed Consumers Act of 2015, a bipartisan bill which mandated an expansion of the existing 5-Star program to include these technologies. This legislation was co-sponsored by Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and was approved earlier this month as part of the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a bipartisan, multi-year surface transportation reauthorization bill that included numerous key provisions authored by Senate Commerce Committee Members, including S. 1535, and was approved by the committee last summer.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-thanks-communications-director-brian-baluta", "Amodei thanks Communications Director Brian Baluta", "2015-12-04", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today announced his communications director, Brian Baluta, accepted the same position with the Dr. Joe Heck for U.S Senate campaign. He thanked Baluta for his service over the past three Congresses.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the constituents of the Second District of Nevada, I want to thank Brian for his dedication to the vital role of keeping Northern Nevadans informed on the issues and the actions of their Congressman. Like many people, when Brian got to Nevada, he wanted to be a Nevadan. I am happy he will be working full time in the Silver State and continuing to inform constituents there. Joe is getting a real pro.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:33:33Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=e81ae33c-013c-4e46-a7e6-39e1438ed848", "Senators Fight to Hold IRS Bureaucrats Accountable with New Legislation", "2015-12-04", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, Senators Dean Heller (R-NV), Richard Burr (R-NC), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Chuck Grassley (R- IA), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), and Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Accountability Act of 2015. This legislation will keep IRS bureaucrats accountable to the American people by giving the IRS Commissioner new authority to fire senior executives who have failed in their performance or committed misconduct. This legislation is based on a law Congress passed last year in the wake of the VA health care scandal that enables the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to fire senior executives for misconduct. \r\nCurrently, the IRS Commissioner does have the authority to fire high ranking employees for certain forms of misconduct, but has not yet used this authority against those who engaged in political targeting of taxpayers. The Administration has claimed that only mismanagement occurred at the IRS and that mismanagement is not a crime and has used this logic to justify its failure to act in the case of Lois Lerner and others who targeted Americans based on their political beliefs. This bill seeks to rectify this problem by giving the Commissioner clear authority to fire employees who fail to meet the standards of conduct and performance we should demand of senior managers at Federal agencies.\r\nThe IRS has an obligation to taxpayers in Nevada and across the country to ensure it lives up to its mission of providing top quality service and enforcing the law with integrity and fairness to all, said Sen. Heller. It is totally unacceptable for IRS employees to discriminate and commit misconduct based on a taxpayers political views. There must be ramifications for this egregious behavior. Last year, I was an adamant supporter of giving the Secretary of Veterans Affairs the ability to fire senior executives for misconduct. Granting the IRS Commissioner similar authority to fire senior executives who have failed in the performance of their duties is desperately needed at the IRS.\r\nIts extremely troubling that these problems have persisted for so long, said Sen. Burr. IRS employees must be held accountable for misconduct. Under the current policy, high ranking IRS officials can cheat on their taxes, lie to Congress, even threaten to audit people for personal gain  all without risking their six figure government salaries. This misconduct is absolutely unacceptable and I am confident we will put a stop to it. The American people deserve better.\r\nIRS employees should swiftly be held accountable for their misdeeds, Sen. Enzi said. This legislation could bring that needed accountability to an agency that has a history of serious misconduct.\r\nThe American people are rightly frustrated when senior federal employees get away with misconduct and poor performance, Sen. Grassley said. It sends the wrong message that anything goes at the top tiers of the federal bureaucracy. Sometimes, a personnel change is what it takes to begin turning things around.\r\nFor far too long, so many of our taxpayer-funded federal agencies have operated unchecked under a culture of waste, fraud and abuse, said Sen. Isakson. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, I have seen firsthand the bureaucratic hurdles that prevented leadership at the scandal-ridden Department of Veterans Affairs from holding bad actors appropriately accountable for their misdeeds and inappropriate conduct. Thats why Congress gave the secretary of the VA firing authority to remove employees that are found to be directly responsible for misconduct. Mirroring the reforms we enacted last Congress at the VA, I strongly support this measure to hold errant employees at the Internal Revenue Service accountable and help restore Americans trust in the IRS.\r\nFor too long the American people have been told there was nothing the IRS Commissioner could do to hold IRS employees who targeted conservative and religious organizations accountable for their actions, said Sen. Scott. Thats not good enough for the American people and thats not good enough for me, and thats why Im pleased to join my colleagues to introduce legislation making it easier to fire poorly performing senior executives at the IRS.I am committed to working with my colleagues to get all the answers about what happened at the IRS and preventing it from happening again, because Americans on all ends of the political spectrum need to be able to live without fear of being targeted by their own government for their political beliefs.\r\nThis legislation applies to the highest ranking IRS employees in the Senior Executive Service (SES). Actionable examples of misconduct include but are not limited to: threatening to audit someone for personal gain, conducting a seizure without approval, assaulting, harassing or violating the civil rights of a taxpayer or a coworker, lying under oath, falsifying or destroying records, concealing information from Congress, underreporting income, and failing to file a tax return on time.\r\nThe IRS Accountability Act has been endorsed by the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) and is part of a package of bills Sen. Burr has introduced to clean up the mess at the IRS.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-highway-bill-includes-omisappropriation-funds", "Amodei: Highway bill includes \u00d4misappropriation of funds'", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today pointed to the irresponsibility of so-called pay-fors as the reason he voted against the House and Senate Conference Report for H.R. 22, the Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015. He released the following statement:\n\n\u201cTo call these pay-fors gimmicky is being kind. At best, they only exist on paper. At worst, they are a misappropriation of funds intended for purposes other than our highways. When the conference report isn\u2019t drawing on moneythat is supposed to back Americans\u2019 bank accounts and expedite air travel, it makes unwise bets like selling oil from the strategic petroleum reserve at a loss and assuming the use of private debt collection agencies will aid the IRS in collecting back taxes.\u201d\n\nAmodei was a cosponsor of the original House version of the transportation bill and is an original cosponsor of H.R.1846, the Bridge to Sustainable Infrastructure Act, which seeks to find a solution to funding our infrastructure needs.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:33:33Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=5604d237-575f-4a3f-a4b4-c551af071f3d", "CONGRATULATING BILL LANDON", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING BILL LANDON\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nDecember 3, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Bill Landon on receiving the 2015 Air and Surface Transport Nurses Association Lynn Stevens Excellence in Safety Award. It gives me great pleasure to see him receive this prestigious award after years of hard work within Northern Nevada.\r\nIn 1998, Mr. Landon began his air ambulance career in Greeley, Colorado. In 2003, he joined Care Flight in Reno and has since served as safety and training coordinator and flight paramedic. During his time at Care Flight, he has been a key contributor in the founding of a formalized safety committee, which meets twice a month and is comprised of medical flight staff pilots, air communication specialists, managers, and maintenance personnel. This important committee, chaired by Mr. Landon, works to review, develop, and implement safety initiatives for Care Flight and those that it serves. As chair, Mr. Landon spearheads important safety trainings, including an annual training for hospital emergency departments, pre-hospital agencies, and ski patrols servicing a 40,000 square mile area. His unwavering dedication to Care Flight in Reno has helped provide hundreds of hours of safety and medical training needed to save lives throughout Northern Nevada. His work for our state is invaluable.\r\nThe Lynn Steven\u2019s Excellence in Safety Award goes to individuals who have gone above and beyond in the transportation community to promote safety awareness. This accolade is truly prestigious and attained by only the most influential members in this community. Since 1981, Care Flight has served northern Nevada\u2019s health organizations as an important resource for transportation with flight paramedics and pilots to respond to a variety of medical emergencies. Our state is fortunate to have someone like Mr. Landon serving Care Flight and its safety initiatives.\r\nThroughout his tenure, Mr. Landon has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to his trade. I am honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. Today, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Landon on receiving this award, and I extend my deepest appreciation for all that he has done for many across northern Nevada. I offer him my best wishes in his role as safety and training coordinator in the future.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=a1305618-9cd3-4866-9efe-121a894a013e", "CONGRATULATING PAUL KOESTER", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING PAUL KOESTER\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nDecember 3, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Paul Koester on his retirement after over 41 years of service to the United States Air Force. It gives me great pleasure to recognize his years of dedication to protecting our country and our state.\r\n\r\nMr. Koester grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and later enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1974, with the intention of serving four years as a jet engine mechanic. During his time in basic training, he decided to change course and test to become a Pararescue Airman. After successfully passing his training, he spent the next four years at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska as part of the 71st Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron. During his time serving in this squadron, he was credited with saving over 75 lives.\r\nFrom 1980 to 1986, Mr. Koester served at McClellan Air Force Base in California and Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas. He soon after decided to join the Air National Guard. For the next 16 years, Mr. Koester served in the 102nd Rescue Squadron at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard base in New York. On September 11, 2001, Mr. Koester and his squadron assisted as first responders during the collapse of the World Trade Center, aiding in saving the lives of many victims of the attack. His bravery and selflessness during this time of crisis will never be forgotten.\r\nThree weeks later, Mr. Koester was deployed to the border of Kuwait and Iraq to serve as part of Operation Southern Watch. Following his return from this mission, Mr. Koester made the decision to resume active duty and was sent to Nellis Air Force Base in 2003 as part of the 58th Rescue Squadron. He concluded his service with this unit after 12 years of service. At his 60th birthday celebration, Mr. Koester was recognized as the oldest enlisted member actively serving in the Air Force and the longest-serving Pararescue Airman with 13 deployments throughout his career. Our country and the Silver State are fortunate to have had someone of such dedication serving to protect our freedoms.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, I have had no greater honor than the opportunity to engage with the men and women who served in our nation's military. I recognize Congress has a responsibility not only to honor the brave individuals who serve our nation, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home. I remain committed to upholding this promise for veterans, like Mr. Koester, in Nevada and throughout the nation.\r\nMr. Koester has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of the United States Air Force. I am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan, and I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Mr. Koester for his years of service and in congratulating him on his retirement. I wish him well in all of his future endeavors.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=7515d401-08ff-4e02-b289-c35f0e367b2e", "Heller Amendment to Repeal Cadillac Tax Passes Senate", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Dean Hellers (R-NV) amendment to fully repeal the Cadillac Tax passed the Senate today by a vote of 90-10. This amendment reflects the same goal asS. 2045,the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act of 2015, theonly bipartisan piece of legislation to fully repeal this onerous tax.\r\nToday, the Senate spoke overwhelmingly in favor of repealing the Cadillac Tax. The Cadillac Tax is causing 151 million workers nationwide to lose the health insurance they like. It is causing families to lose their doctor, costs to skyrocket, taking more money out of the hands of middle class Americans. Im proud my colleagues stood with me in a bipartisan manner to bring relief to hardworking Americans across Nevada and the rest of the country, said Senator Dean Heller. \r\nBackground:   In September, Senators Heller and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introducedS. 2045, which fully repeals the Affordable Care Acts Cadillac Tax. The two Senators introduced this Senate companion to Congressman Courtneys House legislation. Beginning in 2018, the Cadillac Tax will tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,450 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits. In Nevada alone, 1.3 million workers who have employer-sponsored health insurance plans will be hit by this tax.\r\nA PDF copy of the amendment is attached.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=d94fbb96-df60-4ed3-9ab7-6e6efc351f0e", "Congress Passes Long-Term Highway Bill Including Hellers I-11 Extension", "2015-12-03", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate passed the Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a long-term surface transportation reauthorization bill, which included U.S. Senator Dean Hellers (R-NV) Interstate 11 (I-11) extension legislation. Hellers provision extends the future highway connecting Phoenix and Las Vegas through the state to Interstate 80 (I-80) in Northern Nevada. The FAST Act, which will direct federal highway, transit, and safety policies for the next five years, will likely be signed into law by President Obama next week. Following Senate passage, Senator Heller offered this statement:\r\nAfter years of hard work, I am pleased a five-year highway and transit plan, not a short-term patch, is being sent to the President to become law. The FAST Act provides the certainty our nation needs to plan and invest in infrastructure improvements. Most importantly, this bill included my provision to extend I-11 through Northern Nevada. Without a doubt, the Nevada delegation has come together in a big way over the past year to secure this extension, and I am extremely grateful for all of their support, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nBackground: The future I-11 has long been a priority for Senator Heller. An in-depth look at the extension, including a map and video, is available HERE. Senator Heller was also successful in securing six additional transportation provisions in the FAST Act. These provisions were focused on improving Nevadas travel and tourism infrastructure, making transportation safer, and implementing commonsense regulatory reform.\r\nSenator Heller sits on three of the four Senate committees responsible for developing transportation policies: the Committee on Finance; the Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation; and the Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs Committee.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-thanks-rural-representative-meghan-brown", "Amodei thanks Rural Representative Meghan Brown", "2015-12-02", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nELKO, NEV. \u2013Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today announced his rural representative, Meghan Brown, accepted a position as deputy administrator plant industry with the Nevada Department of Agriculture. He thanked Brown for her service in his Elko district office.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the constituents of the Second District of Nevada, I want to thank Meghan for her tireless work on the issues most important to rural communities, from land use to grazing to water rights to hard rock mining. Nevadans have a unique relationship with the federal government and in Meghan they had a strong voice who is as dedicated as she is knowledgeable. I wish her the best of luck in her new endeavor with the Nevada Department of Agriculture and look forward to working with her in this new capacity.\u201d\n\nAmodei is the only federal elected official with an office presence in Elko and is in the process of finding a successor to Brown.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:33:33Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-backs-house-passage-education-overhaul", "Heck Backs House Passage of Education Overhaul", "2015-12-02", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=6ca1fc8c-3ffc-4e92-b2ad-3c65c5a6e782", "Heller Continues Fight to Repeal Cadillac Tax with Legislative Amendment", "2015-12-02", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) filed an amendment to the McConnell curative amendment, Heller Amendment #2882, which fully repeals the Cadillac Tax. This amendment reflects the same goal as S. 2045, the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act of 2015, the only bipartisan piece of legislation to fully repeal this onerous tax.\r\nIn addition, Senator Heller led a bipartisan, bicameral press conference with Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Congressmen Joe Courtney (D-CT02) and Frank Guinta (R-NH01), as well as the Alliance to Fight the 40, to continue the fight to fully repeal the Cadillac Tax. To watch Senator Heller speak at the press conference, click HERE or on the video below.\r\nBackground: \r\nIn September, Senators Heller and Heinrich introduced S. 2045, which fully repeals the Affordable Care Acts Cadillac Tax. The two Senators introduced this Senate companion to Congressman Courtneys House legislation. Beginning in 2018, the Cadillac Tax will tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,450 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits. In Nevada alone, 1.3 million workers who have employer-sponsored health insurance plans will be hit by this tax.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=c97bbe95-c48e-4263-bf46-bb24761d0981", "BREAKING: Hellers I-11 Extension Included in Final Highway Bill", "2015-12-01", "2015", "2015-12", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Six Heller-Led Transportation Provisions Likely To Be Signed Into Law\r\n(Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) announced that six of his legislative priorities, including his Interstate 11 (I-11) extension legislation, were included in the final long-term surface transportation reauthorization bill agreed upon today. Hellers I-11 provision extends the future highway connecting Phoenix and Las Vegas through the state to Interstate 80 (I-80) in Northern Nevada. This final bill, which will direct federal highway, transit, and safety policies for the next five years, will likely be taken up by both the House and the Senate later this week. Following the announcement, Senator Heller offered this statement:\r\nTodays news that the extension of I-11 was included in the final highway bill is a major win for our state. Connecting Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Northern Nevada will spur long-term economic development, create jobs, and bolster international trade, said Senator Dean Heller. I would like to commend the Nevada delegation for its hard work and support of this initiative, especially Congressman Hardy, who served on the conference committee. His leadership ensured Nevadas voice at the table was heard.\r\nThe future I-11 has long been a priority for Senator Heller. An in-depth look at the extension, including a map and video, is available HERE.\r\nSenator Heller was also successful in securing the following provisions, focused on improving Nevadas travel and tourism infrastructure in the highway bill:\r\n \r\nLake Tahoe Transportation Planning Provision assists the Tahoe regions transportation efforts by ensuring the populations of the Nevada and California communities surrounding the Lake are considered a singular entity by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This initiative will greatly benefit local leaders as they seek additional resources to implement the Basins innovative 21st century highway and transit plans. This language, which was advocated by Congressmen Mark Amodei (R-NV) and John Garamendi (D-CA) in the House, is similar to Section 7(c) of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act (S.1724) introduced by Senator Heller alongside Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), and Harry Reid (D-NV) earlier this year.\r\n \r\n \r\nTourism Infrastructure Improvement Provisions ensure long-term transportation plans consider strategies to promote tourism and improve traveler mobility. Specifically, the provisions in the bill ensure important travel organizations, like the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority, are incorporated in long-term transportation planning at the federal, state, and local level. Senator Heller teamed up with Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) to advocate for these provisions.\r\n \r\nAs a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee, Senator Heller prioritized national policies aimed at improving transportation safety and providing common-sense regulatory relief. He was successful in securing the following three provisions in the final bill focused on these goals:\r\n \r\nSafety Through Informed Consumers Act (STICRS) (S. 1535) promotes safer cars by requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to integrate crash-avoidance technologies, such as active braking and lane departure warning systems, into its safety rating that must be displayed on the cars sticker. Senators Heller and Edward Markey (D-MA) joined with Congressmen Todd Rokita (R-IN) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) on this bipartisan, bicameral legislation introduced earlier this year.\r\n \r\n \r\nHours of Service (HOS) Exemption Provision makes the existing HOS exemption for perishable goods, such as concrete, permanent. Under an existing rule, drivers of commercial motor vehicles are required to take a 30-minute break after at most eight consecutive hours of work. Some short distance carriers find it difficult to implement this regulation given the unique conditions of their work. Once a delivery is started, it must be completed or the concrete may harden in the truck, causing thousands of dollars in damage.\r\nThe Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act provides relief from the NHTSAs decades old one-size-fits-all regulations for vehicle manufacturers. Specifically, it establishes a reasonable framework for the production of replica cars  often 1930s hot rods, 1950s classics and 1965 Cobras  so that work is not treated the same as the mass production of cars by global auto manufacturers. Senator Heller teamed up with Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) to advocate for this legislation developed by Congressman Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) in the House. In Nevada, over 100 specialty auto-parts marketers are specifically involved in these types of replica cars.\r\n \r\nAdditionally, Senator Hellers joint provision to help rural communities harmed by Obama Administration policies that restrict access to rural lending opportunities was included in the final long-term surface transportation reauthorization bill. The Helping Expand Lending Practices in (HELP) Rural Communities Act, which Heller co-authored alongside Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Rand Paul (R-KY), provides rural communities with better access to credit opportunities that can help grow their local economies.\r\nSenator Heller sits on three of the four Senate committees responsible for developing transportation policies: the Committee on Finance; the Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation; and the Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs Committee. He worked in a bipartisan manner on each of the six transportation initiatives successfully included in the final highway bill.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=81c0f4c5-bc07-4125-94f3-91d8226961d0", "Heller Donates Computers to Local School in Time for Holidays", "2015-11-20", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Recently, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) secured 25 computers for Clark Countys Kathleen and Tim Harney Middle School in conjunction with the United States Senate Computers for Schools program. The computers were delivered to the school earlier this week.\r\nAs the spouse of a life-long teacher, making sure Nevadas students are equipped with the necessary tools to compete and succeed in the 21st century remains a top priority for me. In todays fast-paced digital world, computers play a central role in all of our lives, especially when it comes to education. Im excited these computers were delivered to Kathleen and Tim Harney Middle School today.\r\nI spoke with Principal Susan Echols earlier this week and relayed my gratitude for the effort she and the rest of the faculty and staff at the school make on a daily basis. I hope these computers help the school, faculty, and students achieve successes for years to come, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=19d3f550-3b03-455a-9084-caf3b7b4961f", "RECOGNIZING THE NEVADA INDIAN COMMISSION ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY", "2015-11-19", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING THE NEVADA INDIAN COMMISSION ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nNovember 19, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize the 50th anniversary of an important entity to our Great State \u2013 the Nevada Indian Commission. I am pleased to see this Commission, which contributes so much in support of Nevada\u2019s Native American community, reach this significant milestone.\r\nThe Nevada Indian Commission has been a positive force in communities across our state. The Commission continues to serve as a forum for Nevada\u2019s Native American population, bringing important issues affecting this community to light. I am grateful to have the Nevada Indian Commission serving as an important liaison between Nevada\u2019s 27 tribal communities and our state\u2019s government.\r\nThe Nevada Indian Commission was established in 1965 as a means to maintain a positive quality of life for our state\u2019s Native Americans. Those that serve on the Commission work to bring greater awareness of Nevada\u2019s many tribes\u2019 cultures, values, and customs. The Commission devotes countless hours to improving education, employment, heath, well-being, and socio-economic status by advocating on behalf of Nevada\u2019s Native Americans, while communicating with local officials. The Commission has five board members working to strengthen economic opportunity and community development. I am thankful for their leadership and for the great things they are doing for this community.\r\nThe Federal Government has unique and important responsibilities to tribes and their people.\u00a0That responsibility is something I take seriously as one of Nevada\u2019s Senators, which is why I have supported policies in Congress focused on promoting tribal self-governance and self-determination.\u00a0Just recently, the Senate passed a resolution recognizing November as National Native American Heritage Month. As a proud original cosponsor of this resolution, I was pleased to see it pass to celebrate the heritages and cultures of Native Americans and their contributions to the United States and Nevada.\r\nFor the past 50 years, the Nevada Indian Commission has proven its unwavering dedication to our state. The hard work of those that have served this Commission has greatly contributed to the positive impact the Native American community has had across Nevada. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Nevada Indian Commission on its 50th anniversary and thanking the Commission for all it does for the Silver State.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=41caa33b-9a89-43e5-a5f2-431ad3a5ec6a", "Heller, Heck Applaud Senate Committee Passage of Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act", "2015-11-19", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) and Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) applauded Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources passage of the Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act of 2015 (H.R. 373). This legislation, which is the House companion to Senator Hellers bill (S.160), expedites access to public lands so accredited volunteer search groups can conduct searches for missing persons.\r\nIn April, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act of 2015 by a vote of 413-0. Approval by the full U.S. Senate is the final step before this bill is sent to President Obama to be signed in to law. Following Committee passage Heller and Heck issued these statements:\r\nTodays committee passage is further proof the Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act is an obvious fix. Democrats and Republicans from both chambers agree no more families should have to experience what the Goldberg and Tucker families had to endure. The time has passed for this legislation to make its way to the Presidents desk, and I will continue to work with Congressman Heck to make that happen, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nToday we are one step closer to justice for the Goldberg family, Rep. Heck said. Now that it has passed committee, I hope the Senate takes swift action in passing this bill to ensure federal regulations wont stand between the family of a missing person and the closure that a family deserves. I commend Senator Heller for his hard work in moving the Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act forward and hope to soon share with the Goldberg family that this bill has passed the Senate.\r\nBackground:\r\nThe Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act of 2015 requires that a decision on issuing a permit for accessing public lands be provided to groups within 48 hours of application and that groups are not responsible for obtaining an insurance policy given they waive federal government liability.\r\nIn January, Senator Heller and Congressman Heck introduced the legislation, which was initially drafted in 2013 following the discovery of the bodies of Keith Goldberg and Air Force Staff Sergeant Antonio Tucker in the Lake Mead Recreation Area by Good Samaritan search and rescue teams. In both cases, the volunteer search teams had to wait nearly one year to obtain the proper permits and insurance before conducting their searches. In Goldberg's case, remains were discovered in less than two hours; in Tucker's it took less than two days.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=42819f40-efda-4139-9d75-2763d177f2e1", "Heller, Gillibrand, Ayotte, and Markey Shed Light on PPD Shadow Looming Over New Mothers", "2015-11-19", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), and Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced S. 2311, the Bringing Postpartum Depression Out of the Shadows Act of 2015, in the United States Senate to fight the reality of postpartum depression (PPD) for new mothers across the country. The bipartisan legislation provides targeted, federal funding to screen and treat maternal depression.\r\nNearly 1 in 8 women experience postpartum depression. Thousands of women across the country battle this condition every year, and this legislation assures that women are able to get the screening and treatment they need. The good news is with the proper resources and early diagnosis, 90 percent of mothers with PPD are successfully treated. Id like to thank Senators Gillibrand, Ayotte, and Markey for bringing this issue to the forefront and supporting this bipartisan legislation, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nThis bill would provide new opportunities for pregnant and postpartum women to receive postpartum depression screenings and new connections to treatments, said Senator Gillibrand. This is a vitally important medical service that should be routine for any new mother in America. This legislation would help us achieve that goal.\r\nIm pleased to join my colleagues Senators Heller, Gillibrand, and Markey in introducing the Bringing Postpartum Depression Out of the Shadows Act. Postpartum depression is treatable but unfortunately women struggling with this condition are often stigmatized, discouraging them from seeking treatment. This should not be the case, and our bill will help bring greater awareness to this issue so that women can feel comfortable in coming forward to ask for help. Our bipartisan bill would also provide additional resources for the screening and treatment of pregnant women and new moms who need assistance, thereby improving the health of both the mother and her baby, stated Senator Kelly Ayotte.\r\nSenator Ed Markey added, Our mothers are heroes, but even heroes need help. Resources to screen and treat maternal depression will help lead to healthier mothers, children and families. Its time we shine a light on the issue of postpartum depression and reach out with a strong helping hand to all the mothers across Massachusetts and the country who do the same for our families every day.\r\nAttached is a PDF version of the bipartisan legislation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-president-must-oensure-our-compassion-not-exploited", "Amodei: President must \u00d4ensure our compassion is not exploited'", "2015-11-18", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) joined 109 of his House colleagues in signing a letter to President Obama urging him to suspend plans to admit thousands of Syrian refugees until the Administration can ensure those individuals do not pose a threat to Americans. It has long been a security concern the Syrian refugee crisis would be exploited by ISIS and other terrorist groups to enable jihadists to gain access to the West. Those concerns were heightened when reports indicated one or more of the Paris attackers gained access to the European Union by posing as a refugee in Greece.\n\nAmodei released the following statement:\n\n\u201cAmericans are compassionate people, but it is not unreasonable to ask the Administration to take measures to ensure our compassion is not exploited. Protecting Americans is paramount and this is an obvious vulnerability. It is not xenophobic to say so and I resent the implication.\n\n\u201cWith all due respect, when the President has regularly downplayed the threat of ISIS and Al Qaeda, only to be proven wrong time and again, what has he done to warrant the benefit of the doubt? Congress has the obligation to provide oversight and halt these plans until the necessary security precautions are in place.\n\n\u201cWhile it is not my preference to engage in political wordsmithing, frankly, given his comments over the past few days, it seems the President reserves greater disdain for his political opponents than he does those responsible for the deaths of thousands at home and abroad, the atrocities in Paris, beheadings, burnings, and the enslavement of women and minors. To suggest that Members of Congress and other American citizens who express concern over a legitimate threat are somehow a recruiting tool for ISIS is disgusting and about the least Presidential thing I\u2019ve seen out of an already disappointing, JV Administration.\u201d\n\nThe letter asks the administration to provide all information regarding admission of refugees and the justification for action to the House and Senate Intelligence, Judiciary, and Homeland Security Committees. The House is slated to take up legislation to address the concerns on Thursday.\n\nText of the letter to the President is available here:\n\nhttp://stivers.house.gov/uploadedfiles/11.18.15_rep_stivers_letter_to_potus_syria-iraq_refugees.pdf\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:30:58Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-president-halt-admission-refugees-syria-iraq", "Heck to President: Halt Admission of Refugees from Syria, Iraq", "2015-11-18", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=83b416ad-633d-49ee-9dbc-4bbca6d9f742", "Bipartisan, Bicameral Push to Eliminate Cadillac Tax Seeks Face Time with POTUS", "2015-11-17", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senators Heller, Brown, Heinrich team with U.S. Reps. Courtney and Guinta to end onerous tax \r\n(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), along with U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Frank Guinta (R-NH) sent a letter to President Barack Obama requesting a bipartisan, bicameral meeting to discuss a plan to eliminate the Cadillac Tax, a 40 percent excise tax on health insurance plans set to take effect in 2018.\r\nFull text of letter to President Obama:\r\nPresident Barack Obama\r\nThe White House\r\n1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW\r\nWashington, DC 20500\r\nDear President Obama:\r\nAs leaders in the effort to repeal the Affordable Care Acts 40 percent excise tax on high cost health insurance plans, we urge you to work with us to eliminate this tax. Finding a path forward on the repeal of this provision is a bipartisan and bicameral end-of-year priority for each of us and a large number of our colleagues on both sides of the aisle. As we continue to negotiate the repeal of this tax in pending, must-pass legislative packages in Congress, we respectfully request a meeting with you to discuss a plan to eliminate this tax.\r\nAs you are aware, theAffordable Care Act includes a provision imposing a 40 percent nondeductible excise tax, also known as the Cadillac Tax, on health plans with a value that exceed $10,200 in coverage for singles and $27,500 for families.This tax poses a serious threat to millions of Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance plans.\r\nAlthough the tax does not go into effect until 2018, both public and private employers are already beginning to alter their benefit packages in preparation for the tax. In order to avoid hitting the tax, employers are raising deductibles and increasing other out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries.This provision and its impact on American workers is not acceptable.\r\nTo make matters worse, the thresholds for this 40 percent excise tax are designed to increase with general inflation over time. However, as history has made clear, health care costs  otherwise known as medical inflation  grow at a much faster rate than the general rate of inflation. With this tax, health care costs will continue to rise faster than general inflation as the quality of coverage declines. Reducing the quality of health benefits provided to workers will do little to slow spending, but will instead shift spending directly to workers out-of-pocket costs, rather than control actual medical inflation.\r\nMany economic models support the claim that revenue projections from this tax have disregarded studies demonstrating employer behavior, and premium price influencing factors such as geography. For example, actuarial firm Milliman found that benefit levels are the smallest contributor to premiums, accounting for only 6.2% of a plans premium growth, which geography accounts for 69.3%. In addition, an August 2015 Kaiser study also found that when FSAs are included in the calculation with premiums, up to 26% of employer-sponsored plans will hit the threshold in 2018, 30% in 2023, and 42% by 2028.\r\nFurther, according to August 2015 reports released by the Congressional Research Service, estimates suggest that if permitted to go into effect, the Cadillac tax could lead to overall decline in the quality of health services. The report also found that in some instances, employers will retain plans that hit the thresholds and pass the tax on to workers in the form of lower wages.\r\nIf we do not act to eliminate this harmful tax,it is inevitable that more health plans will become subject to this tax each year, and middle class workers will be stuck with higher out-of-pocket costs, or lower quality healthcare. Hardworking Americans should not have to make serious medical decisions based on the implications of this tax.\r\nWe welcome your Administrations assistance in working together on this targeted but important adjustment to the Affordable Care Act. To this end, we ask that you commit to working with us and the bipartisan and bicameral coalition we represent to address the importance of repealing this tax and reducing the burden on working Americans. In addition, we request the opportunity to meet with you to discuss repeal of the tax, as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing back from you with potential opportunities to discuss this issue in person by December 1, 2015.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\nDEAN HELLER\r\nU.S. Senator\r\n\r\nSHERROD BROWN\r\nU.S. Senator\r\n\r\nMARTIN HEINRICH\r\nU.S. Senator\r\n\r\nJOE COURTNEY\r\nU.S. Representative\r\n\r\nFRANK GUINTA\r\nU.S. Representative\r\n\r\nCC:  Secretary Burwell, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\r\nSecretary Perez, U.S. Department of Labor\r\nSecretary Lew, U.S. Department of Treasury\r\nCommissioner Koskinen, Internal Revenue Service\r\n\r\nBackground: \r\nEarlier today, Senator Heller spoke on the Senate floor urging his colleagues to support his legislation to repeal the Cadillac Tax. Watch the full speech here. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=f0be6730-f625-4ed0-94c4-55b390a22b3e", "ICYMI: Heller: I will work with anyone to see the Cadillac Tax fully repealed by the end of the year.", "2015-11-17", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor urging his colleagues to support his legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Acts (ACA) Cadillac Tax. Click here or below to watch his speech.\r\nBackground: \r\nIn September, Senators Heller and Martin Heinrich (D-NM), introduced the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act, which fully repeals the ACAs Cadillac Tax. The two Senators introduced this Senate companion to U.S. Congressman Joe Courtneys (D-CT02) House legislation. Beginning in 2018, the Cadillac Tax will tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,450 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits. In Nevada alone, 1.3 million workers who have employer-sponsored health insurance plans will be hit by this tax.\r\nRemarks as prepared: \r\n\r\n\r\nBefore I begin I would like to first offer my condolences to the nation of France. She is one of our oldest allies and the people of America stand proud with her during this tragic time.\r\nMr. President, I rise today to share my concerns with the devastating impacts of the Cadillac tax, enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act.\r\nThe Cadillac Tax is a 40 percent excise tax set to take effect in 2018 on employer sponsored health insurance plans.\r\nIn Nevada, 1.3 million workers who have employer-sponsored health insurance plans will be hit by the Cadillac tax.\r\nThese are public employees in Carson City, service industry workers on the Strip in Las Vegas, small business owners and retirees across the state.\r\nMy colleagues from across the country have heard the same concerns I have; this 40 percent tax will increase costs, significantly reduce benefits, or result in employers getting rid of employer sponsored health coverage altogether.\r\nMr. President, this is precisely why Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, and I have authored the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act of 2015, the only bipartisan piece of legislation to fully repeal this onerous tax\r\nMy bill has 19 bipartisan cosponsors.\r\nOver the summer, when I committed to taking a leadership role to fully repeal this tax  I waited for months for a sign that my colleagues across the aisle would work together to repeal this tax.\r\nThere was a lot of talk, but no action.\r\nAnd to date there is still little action from these same colleagues which is why I ask them once again to join me in repealing this bad tax.\r\nThis shouldnt be a partisan issue yet my colleagues across the aisle have turned it into one.\r\nThat is why I commend Senator Heinrich for joining me in working together in a bipartisan manner to fully repeal this tax.\r\nAnd this repeal needs to happen and happen quickly for employers to be able to plan. \r\nWhether it is through our bill or any of the must pass measures this Chamber takes up in the next 6 weeks before the end of this year - like tax extenders - the Cadillac tax needs to be fully repealed.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Finance Committee, this is something that I have engaged my colleagues on and will continue to do so especially as we hopefully look to move tax extenders before the end of the year.\r\nThis is not just something that has bipartisan support in the Senate, there are over 218 cosponsors in the House of Representatives, and 83 organizations have endorsed our efforts to repeal the Cadillac tax.\r\nIt is very rare these days to see this much agreement in Washington. Organized labor, chambers of commerce, local and state governments, and small businesses have come together with a bipartisan group of Senators putting forth a solution to fix a problem affecting so many hard working Americans.\r\nThe Cadillac tax doesnt officially go into effect until 2018, but the impact of this tax is being talked about more and more because employers are starting to make major changes now to their workers health benefits in order limit the impact of the tax, or avoid the tax altogether.\r\nI have heard from large companies, small businesses, and organized labor- such as the Culinary union in Nevada  and they are all saying the same thing, the Cadillac tax needs to be fully repealed or our employees will experience massive changes to their health care.\r\nWere talking about reduced benefits, increased premiums, and higher deductibles.\r\nAll of these lead to more money being taken out of the pockets of hard working families.\r\nAccording to the non-partisan Kaiser Family Foundation, employees who have job-based insurance have witnessed their out-of-pocket expenses climb from $900 in 2010 to $1,300 in 2015, on average. Thats almost a 50 percent increase in 5 years.\r\nEmployees working for small businesses now have deductibles over $1,800.\r\nKaiser also notes that deductibles have risen nearly seven times faster than workers earnings since 2010.\r\nKaisers President, Drew Altman said, Its quite a revolution. When deductibles are rising seven times faster than wages its means that people cant pay their rent they cant buy their gas. They cant eat.\r\nAs deductibles rise, another way employers are planning on avoiding Obamacares massive new tax, is by eliminating popular health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).\r\nOver 33 million Americans who use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and 13.5 million Americans who use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) may see these accounts vanish in the coming years as companies scramble to avoid the laws 40 percent tax.\r\nHSAs and FSAs are used for things like hospital and maternity services, child care, dental care, physical therapy, and access to mental health services. \r\nAccess to these life-saving services could all be gone for tens of millions of Americans if the Cadillac tax is not fully repealed.\r\nEveryday there is a new article in the national press talking about how middle class workers are going to be hit by this tax.\r\nTowers Watson, a management and consulting firm, did a survey of large businesses who typically offer the most comprehensive coverage. \r\nThey found that by 2018 more than half of employers are planning to significantly cut what they contribute to insure employee spouses and children.\r\nThe United Parcel Service (UPS) is one of those companies that have already said they plan on, limiting plan eligibility for spouses of employees.\r\nShaun OBrien, assistant policy director at the AFL-CIO said recently that, Employers are coming to the table asking for cuts in benefits based on their preliminary projections around the 40 percent excise tax.\r\nTo make matters worse  Chief Financial Officer of a waste and recycling company, Action Environmental, recently told the Wall Street Journal that his company would consider getting rid of its employee coverage altogether because Obamacares Cadillac tax. \r\nHe said, Id be lying if I said we havent had that discussion.\r\nDelta Airlines expects Obamacare will cost it $100 million per year. One reason for the new costs is the 40 percent excise tax on Deltas employee health benefits.\r\nAs if Americans dont already have enough issues with airlines these days.\r\nOut of all the news America see from the Cadillac tax  none of it is positive.\r\nThe goal of health reform should be to help those who do not have health coverage, and lower costs for those who already have insurance.\r\nThis tax doesnt achieve either of those goals  and everyone knows it.\r\nI will do everything I can to see this tax fully repealed.\r\nThere is real urgency to get this done.\r\nI will work with anyone to see the Cadillac tax fully repealed by the end of the year.\r\nOnce again whether it is my bipartisan bill or in a year-end package like tax extenders  we need to repeal this bad tax.\r\nFully repealing the Cadillac tax is an opportunity for Republicans and Democrats to join forces and work together, to repeal a bad tax for one purpose: Help 151 million workers keep the health insurance they like.\r\nThank you, Mr. President, I yield the floor.\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=27aa7174-6bda-423d-bb12-3b1ef0e31c6d", "CONGRATULATING IVAN BELL WOODFORD", "2015-11-16", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING IVAN BELL WOODFORD\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nNovember 16, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Ivan Bell Woodford on being selected to serve as Grand Marshal for the City of Reno\u2019s Veterans Day Parade.\u00a0 As Nevada\u2019s oldest living World War II veteran, there is no doubt Mr. Woodford deserves this honor. It gives me great pleasure to recognize his years of service to both the United States of America and our Great State.\r\n\r\nMr. Woodford grew up at Lake Elsinore, working on the family ranch. He later enlisted in the United States Navy in 1942 as a Seabee. Throughout World War II, he served at Pearl Harbor and Midway Island, operating heavy equipment and cranes to clear debris from the destruction of the war. His unit was later stationed in the Philippines.\r\nIn 1946, Mr. Woodford established his residency in Reno, working for local excavating companies as a heavy machinery operator. He worked for more than 30 years in this industry, helping complete various projects throughout Reno and Lake Tahoe. He aided in laying the foundation of housing pads across Reno, leveling the ground for construction projects near Lake Tahoe, drudging what is now Virginia Lake, and cleaning irrigation ditches to develop Spanish Springs Valley. He also worked heavy machinery during the development of Interstate 80 and many other roads throughout Washoe Valley, leaving his mark in northern Nevada for generations to come. No doubt, he witnessed and contributed to some of the largest growth and expansion throughout the area.\r\nHis many contributions to making our state the best it can be, as well as his service to this country, demonstrates his generous character. His actions represent only the greatest of Nevada\u2019s values and place him among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly defended our nation.\u00a0Our state is fortunate to have someone like Mr. Woodford to serve as a role model.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, I recognize that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor the brave individuals who serve our nation, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home.\u00a0 I remain committed to upholding this promise for veterans, like Mr. Woodford, in Nevada and throughout the nation.\r\nMr. Woodford has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of the United States Navy. His work throughout Nevada is invaluable.\u00a0 I am both humbled and honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan.\u00a0 Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Woodford for all of his accomplishments, as well as his participation in the City of Reno\u2019s Veterans Day Parade.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=d77dada3-b4e9-47af-ab11-5306854b3413", "RECOGNIZING BRIAN BURTON", "2015-11-16", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING BRIAN BURTON\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nNovember 16, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Brian Burton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Three Square, for his tireless efforts in enhancing the lives of many across southern Nevada. Mr. Burton brings more than 20 years of non-profit experience to Three Square, helping feed thousands of southern Nevadans who would otherwise go hungry. Mr. Burton has contributed greatly to his community by working to make Three Square the best it can be.\r\n\r\nLargely due to Mr. Burton\u2019s many years of hard work, Three Square is able to offer a variety of programs to help those who would normally go without a wholesome meal. The organization works to source food, raise money, and grow its volunteer base to provide food to outside partners that distribute meals directly to those in need. Three Square services Clark, Nye, Lincoln, and Esmeralda Counties, feeding over 300,000 Nevadans. Our state is fortunate to have someone such as Mr. Burton running this organization, which is critical to many across southern Nevada.\r\nPreviously, Mr. Burton served as Executive Director for Wilkinson Center in Dallas, Texas, a non-profit organization serving low-income families with food assistance, education, and case management. In his current position, Mr. Burton works to further develop and grow the organization, increase program sustainability and community engagement, diversify and increase fundraising, and offer public policy work. His contributions to this incredible organization are immense, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed.\r\nI extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Burton for his noble contributions to communities across southern Nevada and to the many individuals who have benefited from his work. He is a shining example of someone who strives for the betterment of his community and displays true selflessness in his work. I am thankful to have Mr. Burton serving as an ally to Nevadans in need. \u00a0\r\nToday, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing Mr. Burton and his work for Three Square, a program whose mission is both honorable and necessary. I wish Mr. Burton the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3d8c2e6d-ed8c-4830-8e38-b303b0b753c4", "Heller Calls for Rejection of Syrian Refugees, Demands Oversight to Protect Nevadans from Terrorism", "2015-11-16", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator writes Governor Sandoval and Secretaries John Kerry, Jeh Johnson\r\n(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) sent a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, expressing concern regarding the U.S. admittance process for Syrian refugees resettling in Nevada and nationwide. Hellers letter requests clarification about existing measures in place to guarantee Americans and Nevadans safety as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. State Department carry out the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). In the letter, Heller writes:\r\nDespite concerns from many in Congress and the American public regarding the threat of ISIS and the safety of our nation, the Administration has maintained its commitment to admitting additional Syrian refugees to the U.S. While I recognize the importance of assisting these individuals during a time of crisis, I also strongly believe Congress must conduct thorough oversight to determine whether the existing vetting process by DHS and the State Department is robust enough.\r\nSenator Heller also sent a letter to Governor Brian Sandoval, encouraging him to reject Syrian refugees being relocated to the State of Nevada until it is clear this program effectively protects against terror threats. In the letter, Heller writes:\r\nI hold the responsibility to ensure the safety of Nevadans above all elseUntil my questions have been sufficiently answered by DHS and the State Department and I believe that this program no longer presents a threat to Nevadans, I encourage you to reject any further acceptance of Syrian refugees in the State of Nevada.\r\nPDF copies of each letter are below.\r\nFull text of letter to Governor Sandoval:\r\nThe Honorable Brian Sandoval  Governor of Nevada  State Capitol Building  101 N. Carson Street  Carson City, NV 89701\r\nDear Governor Sandoval,\r\nLike you, I hold the responsibility to ensure the safety of Nevadans above all else. I write to you today to share my concern for the safety of Nevadans as it relates to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) carried out by the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and request that you reject further acceptance of Syrian refugees under this program until certain questions about its effectiveness are answered.\r\nOur state and nation are facing increased threats from extremists like the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), especially in light of the tragic terrorist attacks in Paris, France. As our nation looks to combat terrorism, I believe we must do what we can to reduce these threats and ensure Las Vegas, Reno, and other parts of the state are secure. However, I have serious concerns about the effectiveness of the USRAP program in ensuring the safety of our nation and believe that there are many questions that still need to be answered about the program before the further issuance of refugee status. ISIS may use such a program to reach U.S. soil to carry out attacks on Americans, and I want to ensure Nevada, given its status as a tourist destination with over 40 million visitors annually, is protected.\r\nThat is why, through Congressional oversight, I have sent a letter to the State Department and DHS asking for clarification on the verification requirements during the USRAP process, the number and demographics of Syrian refugees currently admitted under this program in Nevada and across the nation, and what measures are taken to thoroughly vet every applicant for ties to terrorism.\r\nWhile I recognize the merits of assisting refugees during a time of crisis, I also need assurances that the safety of Nevadans will not be compromised as a result of accepting refugees. Unfortunately, at this time, there are too many unanswered questions about the effectiveness of this program and ultimately the number of Syrian refugees who may have come to our state after being resettled elsewhere in the U.S. Until my questions have been sufficiently answered by DHS and the State Department and I believe that this program no longer presents a threat to Nevadans, I encourage you to reject any further acceptance of Syrian refugees in the State of Nevada. The safety of Nevadans should be our top priority, and the Administration must prove to Congress and the American public that the USRAP process is working in Nevadans best interests before committing to bringing in additional Syrian refugees.\r\nAgain, I appreciate your attention to this serious matter as we work toward the shared goal of ensuring the safety of Nevada.\r\nSincerely,\r\nDEAN HELLER  U.S. Senator\r\nFull text of letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, and Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson:\r\nThe Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary of Homeland Security  301 7th Street Southwest  Washington, DC 20024\r\n\r\nThe Honorable John Kerry  Secretary of the Department of State  2201 C St. NW  Washington, DC 20520\r\nDear Secretary Johnson and Secretary Kerry,\r\nI write to you today regarding our nations security and the existing measures in place to guarantee Americans and Nevadans safety as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. State Department carry out the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). In light of the tragic and barbaric terrorist attacks in Paris, France, as well as Beirut, Lebanon, it is more important now than ever to ensure the U.S. is doing all that it can to thoroughly review every application for refugee referrals.\r\nAs the global community works to address the growing refugee crisis that has resulted from the violence of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and other extremists in the Middle East, the U.S. must be acutely aware that terrorists may use the refugee admittance process as an opportunity to reach U.S. soil to carry out attacks on Americans. As a Senator from Nevada, I want to ensure the safety of my state given that it is home to Las Vegas, a top tourist destination in the U.S. with over 40 million visitors annually, as well other popular tourist locations within the state such as Lake Tahoe. While this Administration has claimed that the threat of ISIS is waning, Fridays attacks have made clear that its influence is still strong, and this extremist group is determined to find ways to commit acts of terrorism against America and other Western nations.\r\nDespite concerns from many in Congress and the American public regarding the threat of ISIS and the safety of our nation, the Administration has maintained its commitment to admitting additional Syrian refugees to the U.S. While I recognize the importance of assisting these individuals during a time of crisis, I also strongly believe Congress must conduct thorough oversight to determine whether the existing vetting process by DHS and the State Department is robust enough. To ensure this oversight, as well as the safety of Nevadans, I respectfully request a timely response to the following questions related to the existing refugee admittance process:\r\n \r\nHow many Syrian refugees have been admitted to the U.S. in total between 2011 and today? How many of those Syrian refugees were re-located to Las Vegas or any other location in Nevada? Please identify the number of refugees in each specific location in Nevada, as well as the location and number of Syrian refugees in states bordering Nevada.\r\nOn a location-by-location basis, what are the demographics of the Syrian refugees being admitted to the U.S.? Does the USRAP prioritize any specific demographics, such as religion or women and children, when admitting refugees into the U.S.?\r\nWhen refugees are re-located to cities like Las Vegas, does DHS or the State Department follow up with the domestic resettlement agencies to verify the status of the refugee, including employment, self-sufficiency, location of residence, and cultural adjustment?\r\nAre there mechanisms in place for the DHS or the State Department to determine whether refugees move to other locations in the U.S. after being relocated? How many Syrian refugees are currently living in Nevada, regardless of where they were originally relocated by the U.S. government?\r\nIs there a process in place to fast-track admittance of a refugee if they have a family member already accepted as a refugee in the U.S.?\r\nWhat is the process used to ensure Syrian refugees have never been affiliated with a terrorist group or extremists? Is this a coordinated effort among multiple intelligence agencies? Please describe this process in detail.\r\nGiven the recent attacks in Paris, will the Administration be revisiting the USRAP process to enhance the verification requirements to ensure our national security?\r\nDoes DHS or the State Department, through the screening process, also ensure that any family members of the refugee, who may not be accompanying them, do not have affiliations with a terrorist group or extremist?\r\nDoes the Administration plan to establish or utilize a parole program as a way to fast-track admittance of Syrian refugees? Would such a process first receive Congressional approval? Would such a process still include robust verification requirements to protect U.S. national security?\r\nDoes the U.S. work in coordination with other allied nations to ensure their refugee admittance process also includes robust verification so that potential terrorists are not granted greater access to that nation or its allies?\r\n \r\nAgain, I appreciate your attention to this serious matter as we work toward the shared goal of ensuring the safety of our country. I respectfully request a response by November 23, 2015.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\nDEAN HELLER  U.S. Senator\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1299c421-9aad-43c2-81e9-b621045d8093", "Heller Issues Veterans Day Statement, Announces Senate Passage of VA Backlog Bill", "2015-11-11", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Yesterday, U.S. Senator Dean Hellers (R-NV) bipartisan 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act (S. 1203) passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent. Background information on this important legislation can be found below this statement from Senator Heller recognizing Nevadas heroes on Veterans Day:\r\nToday, we recognize the many brave men and women who sacrificed so much to defend our countrys principal values of freedom and democracy. This is an especially important day for our state, where one out of every 10 Nevadans is a veteran. These heroes bring our state values that cannot be earned anywhere else  a true understanding of comradery and support for one another and a work ethic that is unmatched by even the greatest of entrepreneurs, said Senator Dean Heller. Thank you to all veterans  including the nearly 300,000 that call Nevada home  for defending this country and preserving Americans liberties.Your commitment and sacrifice will not be forgotten.\r\nBackground:\r\nSenator Heller introduced the bipartisan 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act earlier this year alongside Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). The legislation creates reforms at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to eliminate the disability claims backlog and improve the claims process.\r\nNevada veterans are waiting 160 days on average for their claims to be completed, and nearly 850 claims are backlogged. In May, Senators Heller and Casey released the VA Backlog Working Group 2015 Report in which the Working Group identifies the progress made on the claims backlog since 2014, which Working Group recommendations have been implemented by the VA and Congress, and what actions must be taken to fully transition the VA to a 21st century benefits delivery system.\r\nThe 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act and the VA Backlog Working Group 2015 Report were endorsed by several Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), including Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA).\r\nSenators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Pat Toomey (R-PA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), David Vitter (R-LA), Jon Tester (D-MT), Susan Collins (R-ME), Thad Cochran (R-MS), and Christopher Coons (D-DE) have all cosponsored the 21st Century Veterans Benefits Delivery Act.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-heck-kuster-introduce-bipartisan-bill-help-speed-va-care-provide", "Reps. Heck, Kuster Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Speed VA Care, Provide Job Opportunities for Veterans", "2015-11-05", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20160907065524/https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-introduces-bill-name-laughlin-va-health-clinic", "Heck Introduces Bill to Name Laughlin VA Health Clinic", "2015-11-05", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today introduced legislation to officially name the new Laughlin VA health clinic for Master Chief Petty Officer Jesse Dean, a Navy veteran, prominent member of the Laughlin veteran community, and a member of American Legion Post 60.\nAccording to Rep. Heck's legislation, the clinic will be named the \"Master Chief Petty Officer Jesse Dean Department of Veterans Affairs Community Based Outpatient Clinic.\"\n\"While I did not have the privilege of knowing Master Chief Jesse Dean, it is clear from speaking with community members and veterans in Laughlin that naming the new VA health clinic in his honor is a fitting tribute,\" Rep. Heck said. \"Jesse not only served his country as a highly decorated sailor, he served the veteran community of Laughlin, and Post 60 specifically, with such selfless dedication that one former commander of that Post said he was 'that once in a blue moon guy that seems to do everything'. No matter what the project, Jesse never asked for, nor would he accept, anything in return. But we have a chance to repay him for his years of dedication to Laughlin American Legion Post 60, the veteran community of Laughlin, and the United States Navy by naming the new VA health clinic in his honor.\"\nHighlights of Master Chief Jesse Dean's service:\n* Enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965 at the age of 17  \n\t* Served 27 years, achieving the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer, the highest grade for an enlisted sailor  \n\t* First sea duty assignment was aboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet  \n\t* Served in Vietnam as part of the Brown Water Navy  \n\t* Awards and commendations include three Navy Commendation Medals, two Navy Achievement Medals, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon\nAfter retiring from the Navy in 1992, Jesse Dean settled in Laughlin, Nevada and joined the Richard Springston American Legion Post 60. As a member of the Legion, Jesse was revered by fellow members for his selfless service and dedication to the Post and his fellow veterans.\nRep. Heck's naming legislation is supported by the Laughlin Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 243, Richard Springston American Legion Post 60, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 60, and the American Legion Auxiliary of Richard Springston American Legion Post 60. The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Mark Amodei (NV-02) and Cresent Hardy (NV-04).\n  ###\nCongressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=ee9ee0d6-c4cf-443b-b090-43606eebccf7", "CONGRATULATING GRADY TARBUTTON", "2015-11-05", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING GRADY TARBUTTON\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nNovember 5, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Grady Tarbutton on his retirement after over eight years of service to Washoe County Senior Services. It gives me great pleasure to recognize his years of hard work and dedication to this important community in Northern Nevada.\r\nMr. Tarbutton first began his career working to aid seniors at the Washington County Department of Disability, Aging, and Veterans Services in Oregon, as the senior program coordinator. In 2005, he moved to Portland, Oregon, and served as the community services manager for Multnomah County Aging and Disability Services. He began his tenure as director for Washoe County Senior Services in November of 2007, sacrificing countless hours to build the department and offer an array of key resources to our senior community. His commitment to our seniors stands as a shining example of true selflessness and empathy for those in need.\r\nWith the help of Mr. Tarbuttons leadership, Washoe County Senior Services offers a variety of assistance to help Nevadas seniors, including guidance on community senior centers, health programs, food services, housing and care options, legal services, and federal programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans benefits. The department also offers Meals on Wheels, which is an important program that provides meals and support for seniors in need. This department truly goes above and beyond, providing seniors with the tools necessary to create a higher quality of life through steadfast support and help.\r\nMr. Tarbuttons work has had a great impact on Washoe Countys residents. Through his unwavering commitment and tireless work ethic, Nevadas seniors and their families have had an unparalleled support system, ready to assist in times of difficulty or uncertainty. I have visited the Washoe County Senior Center and have witnessed first-hand the positive impact Washoe County Senior Services has on this centers residents. The strong foundation Mr. Tarbutton has built will be felt for years to come.\r\nAs a member of both the Senate Special Committee on Aging and the Senate Committee on Finance, I understand the importance of assisting the needs of Nevadas seniors and ensuring our communities are equipped to serve our states aging population. Washoe Countys seniors have benefitted greatly from the work of this organization. This community is fortunate to have had someone like Mr. Tarbutton there as an ally and friend.\r\nToday, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in thanking Mr. Tarbutton for his dedication to Washoe County Senior Services. He exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and service and should be proud of his long and meaningful career. I wish him well in all of his future endeavors.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=b9b43d4e-ebed-4820-81ec-4565e95d50a3", "Heller Files Amendments Addressing Vets Needs and Holding VA Accountable Ahead of Veterans Day", "2015-11-05", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Recently, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) filed four amendments to the 2016 MilitaryConstructionand Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act specifically focused on improving and enhancing the experiences of Americas veterans with regard to benefits and health care needs in addition to holding the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable by prohibiting bonuses due to abuses of authority by VA employees.\r\nIt is past time the Senate had an opportunity to consider and amend an individual appropriations bill, and addressing the needs of our nations veterans is a good place to start. All of these amendments put our men and women who served in uniform first by holding the VA accountable to its commitment to deliver high quality care and benefits with integrity.\r\nMy VA accountability amendments ensure that senior executive service employees who abuse their authority are not receiving bonuses and that VA and the Department of Defense finally set clear milestones for making interoperable electronic health records a reality. Furthermore, I want to ensure every VA hospital is equipped with the proper personnel to handle the unique health care needs of our nations female veterans. Lastly, we must uphold our promise to the Filipino Veterans who served during World War II and protect their benefits from being used to fix VAs budget mishaps. As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, these issues remain at the forefront of my policy agenda, and I hope they will be attached to the larger bill as it moves forward,stated Senator Heller.\r\nBackground on Amendments:\r\n \r\nEnsuring Accountability at VBA Amendment Prohibits bonuses to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Senior Executive Service employees in light of revelations about abuse of authority by VBA SES employees.\r\nAchieving Interoperable Electronic Health Record Amendment  Ensures the VA is providing clear timelines and goals toward reaching an interoperable electronic health record with the Department of Defense.\r\nEnsuring Women Veterans Access to Care Amendment  Ensures every VAMC has a full-time gynecologist to meet womens health needs.\r\nProtecting Filipino Veterans Benefits Amendment  Prohibits the VA from transferring funds from the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation (FVEC) Fund.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=f8e3ac4d-0675-4fa2-bafb-6b3036f7a20d", "Hellers I-11 Extension Passes House of Representatives", "2015-11-05", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation one step closer to becoming a reality\r\n(Washington, DC)Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed theSurface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015(The STRR Act), their multi-year surface transportation bill. Included in this legislation was Senator Hellers bill to extend the future Interstate 11 (I-11) from Las Vegas through the State of Nevada to Interstate 80 (I-80). This is an important step in the legislative process as the I-11 extension is one step closer to hitting the Presidents desk to be signed in to law. Following House passage, Senator Heller offered this statement:\r\nTodays House passage of the I-11 extension is very exciting news for the State of Nevada, and I am proud to see this project moving closer to becoming a reality. Not only does this extension have the potential to open even more markets for tourism and trade, it means good paying jobs and an economic boost Nevadans are eager to see, said Senator Dean Heller. Enacting a multi-year highway bill is important to our nations long-term economic competitiveness, and I continue to coordinate closely with our congressional delegation to ensure this important Nevada initiative is maintained in any final bill.\r\nThe House and Senate will now work to rectify the differences between the two transportation bills, the DRIVE Act and the STRR Act. It is important to note that both bills include the I-11 extension. The authorization for all federal highway and transit programs expires on November 20th.\r\nBackground:\r\nHellers legislation, introduced in March, ensures the future I-11 is connected to Northern Nevada, giving it a key role as an international trade route. Specifically, the Intermountain West Corridor Development Act of 2015 (S. 842) provides both Arizonas and Nevadas Departments of Transportation the flexibility to develop a Northern Nevada connectivity corridor and a Southern Arizona connectivity corridor as part of the I-11 effort. This full north-to-south, Canada-to-Mexico interstate system is critical for our nations mobility, economy, and national defense. An in-depth look at the legislation, including a map, is available HERE.\r\nIn July, the U.S. Senate passed S. 842 as part of the Highway Bill, otherwise known as the Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy Act (DRIVE Act), with Senator Hellers support.\r\nAs a member of three of the four Senate Committees responsible for developing transportation legislation, Senator Heller has long advocated for the extension of I-11. Last year, at a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing, Senator Heller urged Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx to support the designation of I-11 from Las Vegas to Northern Nevada. In response, Secretary Foxx committed to working with Heller to help secure this designation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=6ae4bf94-0539-4a2a-8600-90ab9ff62ea0", "Heller: WOTUS will devastate Nevada landowners and businesses.", "2015-11-04", "2015", "2015-11", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor, regarding his opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) finalized Clean Water Rule, also known as Waters of the United States (WOTUS). This regulation greatly expands federal control over water by declaring that ditches and other standing water sources be considered navigable waters. Such regulations will impact private property rights, as well as numerous industries ability to create jobs, including farming, ranching, commercial development, small business, construction, and domestic energy production. Click HERE or below to watch Senator Hellers speech.\r\nBackground: \r\nSenator Heller is a cosponsor of the Federal Water Quality Protection Act (S. 1140), legislation that requires the EPA and the USACE to redo WOTUS and consider stakeholder input  something they have completely ignored in the past.\r\nSenator Heller supported S.J.RES.22, a joint resolution of disapproval which would nullify the Obama Administrations final rule.That resolution, which Senator Heller also cosponsored at introduction, passed the United States Senate earlier today.\r\nRemarks as prepared:\r\n\r\nMr. President, I rise today to speak on an issue that will impact every single one of my colleagues constituencies - namely the Environmental Protection Agencys and Army Corps of Engineers new definition for navigable waters.\r\nAlso known as Waters of the U.S., this overreaching and burdensome regulation is bad for Nevada and bad for the nation.\r\nMy home state of Nevada is one of the driest states in the nation, and water is a precious resource. \r\nThe only thing more scarce than water in the Silver State is private property. \r\nThe implementation of this Waters of the U.S. rule will only do more harm to both of these.\r\nSince coming to Congress one of my primary goals has been to promote job-creating policies that grow Nevadas economy, and the key to promoting these types of policies is to cut red tape regulations handed down by Washington bureaucrats.\r\nUnfortunately, time and time again this Administration is bound and determined to issue overly burdensome regulations that damage the economy and stifle job creation.\r\nThis latest edict from Washington bureaucrats is no different.\r\nAfter years of failed legislative attempts to change the scope of regulatory authority over water, this Administration has overturned both Congressional intent and multiple Supreme Court decisions to further overregulate hardworking Nevadans.\r\nI have long been an outspoken advocate and cosponsor of Senator Barrassos legislation - The Federal Water Quality Protection Act - which would make the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers redo this rule and consider stakeholder input; something they completely ignored the last time around.\r\nMr. President, considering that nearly 87 percent of my home states land is managed by the federal government  who I often refer to as our federal landlords, its easy to see why this rule is thought of by many back home as yet another federal land grab.\r\nIve heard from many of my constituents who have shared with me their staunch opposition to this rule, like Marlow from Ruby Valley, and Darryl from Yerington. \r\nThey write about the rule and I quote -creates confusion and risk by providing the Agencies with almost unlimited authority to regulate, at their discretion, any low spot where rainwater collects, including common farm ditches, ephemeral drainages, agricultural ponds and isolated wetlands found in and near farms and ranching.\r\nThe EPA may tell you that farmers and ranchers are protected from this regulation by exemptions under the Clean Water Act. The problem with this so-called exemption is, if you have made any changes to your farm or ranch since 1977 that impacts any water or land, you dont qualify for an exemption from this rule.\r\nAnd under this new rule, almost all water could be regulated. \r\nRanching is the backbone of Nevadas rural economy, and implementation of this rule will devastate Nevada landowners and businesses. \r\nLike Marlow and Darryl I believe this rule needs to be re-done with significant input from local stakeholders, and in a way that will not impact the ability of Nevada ranchers to provide food for Americans.\r\nUnfortunately the Senate was not even able to proceed to this measure and debate legislation to exert some much-needed oversight over the EPA. \r\nAlthough I was sad to see that vote fail, today I am proud to stand in support of Senator Ernsts resolution of disapproval, which will send this regulation back to the Administration and send a clear message that Congress doesnt accept overreaching regulations created by Washington bureaucrats\r\nThe fact is, Mr. President, the implementation of this rule has already been halted by federal courts. I strongly believe that, at the end of the day, the Courts will decide to overturn this onerous regulation. \r\nThat is why I stand here today to urge my colleagues to support this resolution of disapproval.\r\nInstead of waiting years for the courts to decide, Congress needs to take immediate action to show this Administration that we will not stand for anymore regulations that kill jobs and stifle economic growth.\r\nGood stewardship of our natural resources is part of Nevadas character that makes it so unique. This is not about dirty water, or a rollback of the Clean Water Act. \r\nThis is about a federal regulation that severely limits land use, infringes on property rights, and diminishes economic activity in Nevada and nationwide. \r\nThis is about federal regulatory overreach by an agency that is using the Clean Water Act as a means to greatly increase its authority. At a time when the American public is still waiting for answers on the Animas River spill in Colorado I find it greatly disturbing that this agency is using clean drinking water as an excuse to gain authority over all waters in the U.S. Enough with the power trips.\r\nShould we really trust the Environmental Pollution Agency with this?\r\nAs a sportsman I grew up understanding the importance of being a good steward to our environment. I support efforts that balance conservation and economic growth, and that is why I again urge my colleagues to stand with me against this Administrations heavy handed mandates.\r\nThank you, Mr. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=60d273ad-80cf-42ee-b9e8-d90c749b75f3", "Heller Seeks Long-Term Solutions Not Short-Term Budget Gimmicks", "2015-10-30", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the Senate voted to pass the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015:\r\nIts business as usual here in Washington. This latest budget agreement is not a long term plan or solution the American people deserve. This plan will force Congress to revisit this same exact issue in a short amount of time. Thats why I dont support it and instead offered my No Budget, No Pay Act as an amendment to the budget. No Budget, No Pay is the long term solution our country needs and will force Members of Congress to do their job by passing a concurrent budget resolution and all appropriations bills by the beginning of each fiscal year. Its past time Washington addresses the needs of the people of this nation instead of continuing to punt to the next big deadline.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=7b6f2a95-c601-414c-b671-39a0de8c9d4f", "Heller Legislation to Assist Homeless Veterans and Their Dependents Passes U.S. Senate", "2015-10-29", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Hellers (R-NV) legislation, Creating A Reliable Environment (CARE) for Veterans Dependents Act, passed the U.S. Senate. As a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Senator Heller introduced this legislation to ensure that children of homeless veterans are eligible for services provided to that veteran by VA-funded facilities. Following his fight to ensure this must-pass provision cleared the Senate, Senator Heller issued this statement:\r\nIn cities like Las Vegas and Reno, where veteran homelessness remains a serious problem, it is imperative that dependents of veterans, especially their children, are taken care of when their veteran parent has fallen on hard times. I am proud that the Senate passed my legislation to help get our heroes and their families back on their feet, said Senator Dean Heller. It is an honor to advocate on behalf of Nevadas more than 300,000 veterans, and I will continue fighting to ensure each and every one of them is taken care of.\r\nSenator Heller also spoke on the Senate floor. You can click HERE or on the video below to watch his remarks.\r\nBackground:\r\n \r\nUnder current law, the VA Grant and Per Diem program does not reimburse VA-funded facilities for services provided to a homeless veterans dependent.\r\nChildren accompanying their veteran parent who has fallen on hard times can be turned away from receiving care at VA-funded facilities.\r\nThe CARE for Veterans Dependents Act simply allows the VA to reimburse facilities for care of a dependent of a veteran receiving care at a shelter funded by the VA Grant and Per Diem program.\r\nThe CARE for Veterans Dependents Act passed as an amendment to Senator Patty Murrays (D-WA) Homeless Veterans Services Protection Act (S.1731), as modified. \r\n \r\nA PDF copy of the CARE for Veterans Dependents Act is available HERE.\r\nRemarks as prepared:\r\nMr. President, I want to thank Senator Murray for her efforts here today and for her willingness to work with me on including a provision that weve worked on together for several years now as members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee.\r\nSenator Murrays legislation ensures that homeless veterans continue to be eligible for the VAs Grant and Per Diem Program.\r\nWith my provision that Senator Murray has agreed to include, this legislation will also extend this eligibility to the dependents of homeless veterans.\r\nGiven the work that I have done with Senator Murray on eligibility for homeless veterans dependents, I believe it was important we addressed both the needs of the veteran, as well as their dependents.\r\nIn cities like Las Vegas, where veteran homelessness remains a serious problem, the supportive housing and service centers that receive VA funding are absolutely critical to getting these veterans back on their feet.\r\nNot only do the programs provide housing, but they also offer services, such as case management, education, crisis intervention, and other services to special populations such as homeless women veterans.\r\nThis Congress has a responsibility to ensure that existing veterans under this program remain eligible, but also that dependents of veterans, especially their children, are taken care of when their veteran parent has fallen on hard times.\r\nThat is why I introduced the CARE for Veterans Dependents Act with Senator Murray to make dependents eligible for care at VA-funded facilities.\r\nThese children and their parents deserve the certainty that they will be able to access supportive housing during their serious time of need.\r\nI am proud that we were able to move forward on this measure, which was just accepted by unanimous consent.\r\nSenator Murray and I have a proud history of working together to advocate on behalf of our nations veterans, and todays passage of this legislation is another testament to our strong partnership on behalf of veterans.\r\nI am also grateful to Chairman Isakson and Ranking Member Blumenthal of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for working so diligently with us to make this happen.\r\nThank you, Mr. President.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-joe-heck-statement-budget-vote", "Rep. Joe Heck Statement on Budget Vote", "2015-10-28", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=d0718b20-2213-4103-9948-cdae96061053", "Heller Cosponsors Legislation to Improve Breast Cancer Detection", "2015-10-23", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month\r\n(Washington, DC)  U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) has cosponsored Senator Dianne Feinsteins (D-CA) Breast Density and Mammography Reporting Act (S. 370). The bipartisan legislation requires mammogram reports to include whether patients have dense tissue so that they know whether to seek additional screening to better detect breast cancer. After cosponsoring the legislation, Senator Heller issued this statement:\r\nAfter what my family and fellow Nevadans have been through with regard to breast cancer, I understand how important it is to continue working to put an end to this horrible disease. With increased research, increased funding, and increased awareness, I am confident we can help find a cure once and for all, said Senator Dean Heller. This month, as we continue raising awareness, I will be thinking of Nevadans who have had to experience the devastating impact of this disease. I am proud to add my name to Senator Feinsteins legislation, and look forward to working with her and the remaining cosponsors to stay on top of this issue until breast cancer no longer exists.\r\nSenator Heller has championed legislative efforts to help eradicate breast cancer. In January, he introduced the Mobile Mammography Promotion Act of 2015 (S. 91), which ensures continued access to breast cancer screening in underserved areas throughout the United States. In March, he introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at helping to end breast cancer by 2020. The Accelerating the End of Breast Cancer Act of 2015 (S. 746) creates a clearinghouse and catalyst for research, public-private partnerships, and trans-disciplinary collaboration to help advance the mission of ending breast cancer. Earlier this month, Senator Heller discussed both pieces of legislation with KTVNs Wendy Damonte. You can click HERE or on the video below to watch the interview.\r\nBreast Density and Mammography Reporting Act Summary:\r\n \r\nRequires mammography facilities to include up-to-date information about breast density in both the written report of the results of a mammography examination provided to a patient's physician and the summary of that written report given to the patient.\r\n \r\n \r\nRequires the Department of Health and Human Services to expand and intensify research on breast density, the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of supplemental imaging relating to breast density, and best practices concerning mammograms and supplemental screening for those with dense breast tissue.\r\n \r\n \r\nSenators Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Robert Casey (D-PA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Charles Schumer (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Edward Markey (D-MA) have also cosponsored the legislation.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/attorney-general-laxalt-joins-broad-nevada-coalition-challenging-federal-sage-grouse", "Attorney General Laxalt joins broad Nevada coalition challenging federal sage grouse land-use restrictions", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Monica Moazez, Mmoazez@ag.nv.gov / 702-486-0657\n\nCarson City, NV \u2013 Today, Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt joined a suit on behalf of the state of Nevada challenging the federal government\u2019s greater sage-grouse land-use plan. In ten western states including Nevada, the federal plan withdraws more than ten million acres of federal land from public use. In Nevada alone, mineral exploration and development is barred on nearly three million acres. Additionally, the plan may result in significant restrictions on livestock grazing, resource development and public access on over sixteen million acres of public land in Nevada.\n\n\u201cThe federal government\u2019s one-size-fits-all sage-grouse plan will greatly hinder Nevada\u2019s growth and success, and have an adverse impact on Nevada\u2019s economy, affecting ranchers, mining exploration, new energy source development, recreation and everyone who works in these industries,\u201d said Laxalt. \u201cWhile I appreciate and applaud all of the efforts that have been made to negotiate a favorable outcome for Nevada, and continue to hope that ongoing negotiations may result in a better plan for Nevada, my office, after careful legal analysis, has concluded that this suit is necessary to fully protect the interest of the state.\u201d\n\nSenator Dean Heller added, \u201cAs I said before, the final greater sage-grouse land-use plans are not a win for Nevada\u2014new restrictions on over sixteen million acres in ourstate alone pose a threat to our western way of life. I support efforts to stop these unnecessary regulations in their tracks and allow rural Nevada to thrive economically.\u201d\n\nCongressman Mark Amodei stated, \u201cFor 150 years, Nevadans have lived with decisions made from thousands of miles away in Washington, D.C. Nobody else does it this way\u2013 not at the local and state levels and not at the federal level for much of the nation. The sage hen resource management plans are based on political maneuvers where the last consideration seems to be multiple use in the West. The result is a nearly three million acre exclusion zone because the Interior officials in D.C. do not have to live with their rulings the way Northern Nevadans do. When the Department of the Interior completely ignores input from Nevada\u2019s Environmental Impact Statement, I believe no tool should be left in the shed, and one of those tools is litigation.\u201d\n\nBefore the federal government adopted its final plan last month, Nevada developed a State Plan that focuses on the specific needs of the sage-grouse population within the state while balancing relevant economic and rural concerns, and ensuring that federal land remains available for multiple uses. The plan was developed through the Sagebrush Ecosystem Council, and received input from all stakeholders including representatives from local government, the general public, wildlife, mining, ranching, tribal nations, energy, agriculture and conservation organizations.\n\nThe federal government is required by law to adopt a plan that allows for multiple uses that is consistent with the State Plan where possible. Despite repeated efforts by state and local officials, the federal government rejected major portions of the State Plan and withdrew millions of acres from other uses.\n\n\u201cThose who live closest to the land are the best stewards of it,\u201d said Congressman Cresent Hardy. \u201cThis has been proven particularly true in Nevada, where locally driven conservation efforts helped keep the sage-grouse off of the endangered species list. But the federal government is actively choosing to ignore that reality. Washington should leave land management to those who need it most and who know it best.\u201d\n\nCongressman Joe Heck added, \u201cOn the surface, the Obama Administration\u2019s decision not to list the sage-grouse as a threatened or endangered species may seem like a win for Nevada. However, the land use plans BLM and the Forest Service intend to implement have created a de facto listed designation by locking up millions of acres of land in our state and across the West, greatly restricting our future economic development. This is consistent with the Obama administration\u2019s habit of disregarding solutions to local challenges developed at the state level, and instead choosing to enact its agenda through executive actions like these land-use plans. Nevadans came together and developed a plan to protect the sage-grouse and its habitat while still allowing lands to be used for economic development opportunities and recreation. Unfortunately that plan was rejected by bureaucrats at the Department of the Interior who have no connection to the land and won't have to deal with the consequences of their land-use plan. Nevada should pursue this litigation to protect our state from the negative impacts of yet another example of federal overreach.\u201d\n\nAttorney General Laxalt continued, \u201cBeing home to the second highest population of sage-grouse, this bird has long been a part of Nevada\u2019s rural culture and history. Nevada has already demonstrated that our State Plan does a better job protecting sage-grouse than the federal plan, while also respecting the other needs of Nevadans. I am encouraged by the overwhelming support of federal, state and local government officials, together with Nevadans across our state on my decision to join this suit.\u201d\n\nNevada counties who have joined the lawsuit include: Churchill, Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lincoln, Pershing, Washoe and White Pine. Other community leaders and associations that support this action include: Senator James Settelmeyer, Senator Pete Goicoechea, Senator Don Gustavson, Assemblyman John Ellison, Assemblyman Jim Wheeler, Assemblyman Ira Hansen, County Commissioners, the Nevada Association of Counties, the National Federation of Independent Business/Nevada representing more than 2,200 small businesses throughout the state, the Nevada Petroleum Marketers Association, the Western Exploration, LLC, the Nevada Farm Bureau Federation, the Nevada Cattleman\u2019s Association and the Ninety-Six Ranch.\n\nNevada\u2019s filed complaint and statements of those who support this action are attached.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:28:00Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/house-passes-amodeis-critical-minerals-bill-fourth-time-looks-forward-osenate-helping", "House passes Amodei's critical minerals bill for fourth time; Looks forward to \u00d4Senate helping solve this important issue'", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nHouse passes Amodei\u2019s critical minerals bill for fourth time; Looks forward to \u2018Senate helping solve this important issue\u2019\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2), along with 48 cosponsors and a bipartisan group of 254 members, took steps to address the strategic and economic vulnerabilities presented by mineral production, including rare earth elements -- an industry dominated by China and other foreign nations. The House passed H.R. 1937, the National Strategic and Critical Minerals Production Act of 2015, by a vote of 254 to 177, which is intended to address American dependence on foreign minerals and to enable the United States to more efficiently develop its own mineral supplies.\n\n\"It\u2019s not hyperbole to say our national defense and way of life depend on mineral production,\u201d said Amodei. \u201cFrom military technology, such as aircraft and missiles used by service men and women to defend our country; to the cars, smartphones and televisions we use every day; to medication and medical supplies; they all contain strategic and critical minerals such as rare earth elements, as well as gold and silver, to name a few.\n\n\u201cThe 2014 Ranking of Countries for Mining Investment found that seven to 10-year permitting delays are the most significant risk to mining projects in the United States. Duplicative regulations, bureaucratic inefficiency and lack of coordination between federal agencies unnecessarily threaten our economy and jeopardize our national security.\n\n\u201cNevada is rich in strategic and critical minerals. Permitting delays stand in the way of high-paying jobs and revenue for local, often rural, communities. This legislation does nothing to circumvent environmental regulations or public input. It would simply streamline the permitting process to leverage our nation's vast mineral resources, while paying due respect to economic, national security and environmental concerns. This legislation has received approximately 1,054 bipartisan votes, passing the House four times the past three Congresses. I look forward to the Senate joining the fray this Congress and helping the House solve this important issue for the country.\"\n\nSpecifically, The National Strategic and Critical Minerals Production Act:\n\nRequires the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture to more efficiently develop domestic sources of strategic and critical minerals and mineral materials, including rare earth elements.\n\nDefines strategic and critical minerals as those that are necessary:\n\n(a) For national defense and national security requirements.\n\n(b) For the Nation\u2019s energy infrastructure including pipelines, refining capacity, electrical power generation and transmission, and renewable energy production.\n\n(c)To support domestic manufacturing, agriculture, housing, telecommunications, healthcare and transportation infrastructure.\n\n(d) For the Nation\u2019s economic security and balance of trade.\n\nFacilitates a timely permitting process for mineral exploration projects by clearly defining the responsibilities of a lead agency.\n\nSets the total review process for issuing permits to 30 months.\n\nEnsures American mining projects are not indefinitely delayed by frivolous lawsuits by setting reasonable time limits for litigation.\n\nSets a 60 day time limit to file a legal challenge to a mining project, gives standing to project proponents, and limits injunctive relief to what is necessary to correct the violation of a legal requirement, and prohibits the payment of attorney\u2019s fees, expenses and other costs by the U.S. taxpayer.\n\nRespects and upholds all environmental laws while setting timelines that ensure these laws do not become tools for lawsuits or bureaucrats to block or delay responsible projects.\n\n48 cosponsors: Reps. Barr [R-KY-6], Benishek [R-MI-1], Chaffetz [R-UT-3], Cole [R-OK-4], Conaway [R-TX-11], Cook [R-CA-8], Cramer [R-ND], Culberson [R-TX-7], Diaz-Balart [R-FL-25], Duncan [R-SC-3], Fleischmann [R-TN-3], Flores [R-TX-17], Gohmert [R-TX-1], Gosar [R-AZ-4], Graves [R-MO-6], Graves [R-GA-14], Hardy [R-NV-4], Hartzler [R-MO-4], Heck [R-NV-3], Johnson [R-OH-6], Kelly [R-PA-3], Labrador [R-ID-1], LaMalfa [R-CA-1], Lamborn [R-CO-5], Latta [R-OH-5], Luetkemeyer [R-MO-3], Lummis [R-WY], Marchant [R-TX-24], McClintock [R-CA-4], McMorris Rodgers [R-WA-5], Mooney [R-WV-2], Newhouse [R-WA-4], Olson [R-TX-22], Renacci [R-OH-16], Rogers [R-KY-5], Rothfus [R-PA-12], Rouzer [R-NC-7], Salmon [R-AZ-5], Sensenbrenner [R-WI-5], Sessions [R-TX-32], Simpson [R-ID-2], Stewart [R-UT-2], Stivers [R-OH-15], Thompson [R-PA-5], Tipton [R-CO-3], Walden [R-OR-2], and Young [R-AK], Zinke [R-MT].\n\nIn Case You Missed It:\n\n1) Congressman Amodei\u2019s floor remarks in support of H.R. 1937\n\nhttps://youtu.be/NgjTfwFcp0s\n\n2) 60 Minutes Investigates Rare Earth Elements\n\n60 Minutes\u2019 report on March 22, 2015 made it clear the U.S. is too dependent on other countries for minerals essential for everything from smartphones to the new F-35 fighter jet.\n\nWatch the full story here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:28:00Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-heck-statement-presidents-ndaa-veto", "Rep. Heck Statement on President's NDAA Veto", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=f0a5b980-2a37-46ec-b8ac-0c87d4435d7f", "Hellers I-11 Extension Passes House Committee", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) passed H.R. 3763, theSurface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015(The STRR Act). Included in this legislation was Senator Hellers bill to extend the future Interstate 11 (I-11) from Las Vegas through the State of Nevada to Interstate 80 (I-80). U.S. Representatives Cresent Hardy (R-NV04) and Dina Titus (D-NV01), both members of the T & I Committee, worked with Senator Heller on this legislation, which is now one step closer to hitting President Obamas desk to be signed in to law. Following committee passage, Heller offered this statement:\r\nFirst and foremost, I would like to commend Representatives Hardy and Titus for their tireless effort to ensure I-11 was included in the House highway bill. Our delegation has a long history of working together on Nevada priorities, and todays committee passage proves collaboration  in both chambers and across party lines  is a recipe for success, said Senator Dean Heller. No doubt, Nevada will reap the economic benefits of the I-11 extension for years to come, and I am grateful we are one step closer to pushing it over the finish line.\r\nBackground:\r\nHellers legislation, introduced in March, ensures the future I-11 is connected to Northern Nevada, giving it a key role as an international trade route. Specifically, the Intermountain West Corridor Development Act of 2015 (S. 842) provides both Arizonas and Nevadas Departments of Transportation the flexibility to develop a Northern Nevada connectivity corridor and a Southern Arizona connectivity corridor as part of the I-11 effort. This full north-to-south, Canada-to-Mexico interstate system is critical for our nations mobility, economy, and national defense. An in-depth look at the legislation, including a map, is available HERE.\r\nIn July, the U.S. Senate passed S. 842 as part of the Highway Bill, otherwise known as the Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy Act (DRIVE Act), with Senator Hellers support.\r\nLast year, Senator Heller urged Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx to support the designation of I-11 from Las Vegas to Northern Nevada. In response, Secretary Foxx committed to working with Heller to help secure this designation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=c12bf6ae-c59b-4e50-8cbb-d961dcd169c8", "Heller Amendment Protects Americans Privacy and Liberty", "2015-10-22", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Offers Remarks on Senate Floor\r\n(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor, urging his colleagues to support his commonsense amendment to the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (S. 754). Hellers amendment holds the federal government accountable and strengthens the privacy protections in this legislation by raising the standard for removing Americans and Nevadans personally identifiable information prior to the federal government sharing with the private sector. \r\nRemarks as prepared: \r\nMr. President, growing up in Nevada, I appreciate the values that make Nevadans distinctfiercely independent and as diverse as our terrain. But what never ceases to amaze me about Nevadans is our passion for protecting Americans privacy from the intrusion of the federal government.\r\nIt is a value that is shared across the entire state, and one that I swore to uphold. But many Americans have lost faith that their government will uphold their civil liberties.\r\nSo it is Congresss responsibility to ensure that every piece of legislation passed by this body protects the privacy and liberties of all Americans, and I will not accept attempts to diminish these non-negotiable rights.\r\nMr. President, that is why I am on the floor today to continue protecting Americans and Nevadans privacy by pushing for my amendment to the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act.\r\nI commend my colleaguesChairman Burr and Ranking Member Feinsteinfor recognizing the need to address the serious issue of cybersecurity.\r\nAs the Ranking Member of the Commerce Committees Consumer Protection Subcommittee last Congress, I delved into these issues and understand the impact of data breaches and cyber threats.\r\nIts an economic concern as well as a national security concern for our country.\r\nSo I share the desire to find a path forward on information sharing between the federal government and the private sector as another tool in the cybersecurity toolbox.\r\nBut these efforts cannot come at the expense of personal privacy.\r\nAnd the bill I see today does not do enough to ensure personally identifiable information is stripped out before being shared.\r\nThat is why I have filed a simple fix.\r\nLets strengthen the standard for stripping out this information.\r\nRight now, this bill says that the federal government only has to strip out personal information if they KNOW it is not directly related to a cyber threat.\r\nMy amendment, #2548 as modified, would ensure that when personal information is being stripped out, it is because the entity reasonably believes it is not related to a cyber threat.\r\nThis distinction creates a wider protection for personal information by ensuring these entities are making an effort to take out personal information thats not necessary.\r\nI am proud to have the support of Senators Leahy and Wyden, both great advocates in the Senate for privacy.\r\nHowever, Im disappointed my amendment was not included in the substitute amendment that we see today.\r\nThe supporters of this bill talk about how this legislation upholds privacy, but couldnt accept a reasonable amendment that complements those privacy provisions.\r\nAnd our friends over in the House of Representatives already agree that the private sector should be held to this standard, which is why they included this language in the cybersecurity bill they passed.\r\nIf this is good enough for the private sector, shouldnt it be good enough for the federal government?\r\nFurthermore, DHS has publicly acknowledged the importance of removing personally identifiable information because it will allow the information-sharing regime to function more efficiently.\r\nSo what this comes down to, Mr. President, is our nations commitment to balancing the need for sharing cybersecurity information with the need to protect Americans personal information.\r\nLike many in the tech community have already publicly statedsecurity should not come at the expense of privacy.\r\nI believe my Amendment #2548 to hold the federal government accountable strikes that balance and hope that this simple fix can be incorporated into the bill.\r\nI encourage my colleagues to support this commonsense effort to strengthen this bill and keep our commitment to upholding the rights of U.S. citizens.\r\nI appreciate both Senators Burr and Feinsteins willingness to work with me on my amendment and look forward to continuing this debate.\r\nThank you, Mr. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=14f6d652-5d52-4461-b94b-f6e27bfdede1", "Heller, Heinrich Introduce Bipartisan Public Lands Bill", "2015-10-21", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation Would Reauthorize The Federal Land Transaction Facilitation Act\r\n(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) led a group of senators to introduce a bill to reauthorize the Federal Land Transaction Facilitation Act (FLTFA). Before it expired in 2011, FLTFA allowed the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Park Service in the western United States to use the proceeds from sales of certain federally designated areas to protect lands of exceptional conservation value.\r\nIm pleased to join with Senator Heinrich to support this bipartisan program providing a fiscally responsible way to protect and manage important public lands in Nevada and the West. Not only will it spur economic growth and development, it will keep conservation at the forefront of the regions needs,said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nThis program takes a balanced approach to conservation of public lands in the West, and as a result, it has a long history of bipartisan support,said Senator Martin Heinrich.FLTFA is a commonsense program that achieves the dual goals of conservation and economic development. These funds have been used to protect iconic lands in New Mexico including in the Aztec Ruins National Monument, Santa Fe National Forest, and Elk Springs. FLTFA helps our state preserve the places that draw visitors from around the world and sustain outdoor traditions like hunting and fishing for generations to come.\r\nFrom 2000 to 2011, FLTFA allowed the preservation of important sites across the western United States without the use of taxpayer money. The program also assisted in better land management practices by disposing of isolated or difficult to manage parcels identified by the public land management agencies themselves.\r\nAdditional cosponsors of the Federal Land Transaction Facilitation Act are U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Steve Daines (R-Mont.).\r\nThis legislation was supported by the following groups:\r\nWashoe County\r\nThe Conservation Fund-Nevada\r\nNevada Land Trust\r\nThe Nevada Chapter of the Nature Conservancy\r\nTahoe Rim Trail Association\r\nCarson Valley Trails Association\r\nTruckee Meadows Trails Association\r\nFriends for Nevada Wilderness\r\nMuscle Powered (Carson City)\r\nThe Conservation Fund\r\nRocky Mountain Elk Foundation\r\nWestern Governors Association\r\nNational Association of Counties\r\nNational Cattlemen's Beef Association\r\nA copy of the bill is available here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=f98ef4d6-19da-4dee-af14-e38e3163adf7", "Heller Disappointed Senate Fails to Address Comprehensive Immigration Solution", "2015-10-20", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC) - Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the United States Senate refused to seize an opportunity to provide a comprehensive immigration solution addressing our nations broken immigration system:\r\nComprehensive immigration reform remains an issue that leaders in Washington must address. Sanctuary cities only underscore the fact Americas immigration system is fundamentally broken. I intended to file an amendment to address this issue. The amendment would have provided an opportunity to help ensure those who want to participate in the American dream still have the ability to do so while also securing our borders and increasing interior enforcement measures, especially against convicted criminals. I urge my colleagues to join in the discussion to further the debate on immigration reform, an issue that is critically important to the well-being of our country, said Senator Dean Heller. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-joe-heck-statement-afghanistan-troop-level-announcement", "Rep. Joe Heck Statement on Afghanistan Troop Level Announcement", "2015-10-15", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-signs-ex-im-discharge-petition-because-onevada-jobs-are-line", "Amodei signs Ex-Im discharge petition because \u00d4Nevada jobs are on the line'", "2015-10-13", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) has joined a bi-partisan coalition of the majority of the members of the U.S. House to sign a discharge petition to bring the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank of the U.S., also known as Ex-Im, to the House floor. A discharge petition is a parliamentary procedure of last resort used to demand regular order in the House and bring an urgent bill to the floor for consideration.\n\nAuthorization for Ex-Im expired on June 30 of this year, leaving businesses throughout Nevada and the nation without this competitive financing tool. Since 2007, Ex-Im authorized and insured $180 million in export value in Nevada, 88 percent of which was exported from Northern Nevada.\n\n\u201cEx-Im creates American jobs. It creates Nevada jobs. And it does so while generating billions of dollars for the U.S. Treasury,\u201d said Amodei. \u201cSince 1990, Ex-Im returned $7 billion more than its appropriations. Across Northern Nevada and the nation, Ex-Im supports approximately 164,000 jobs and 90 percent of its transactions are for small businesses. That\u2019s not corporate welfare. That\u2019s a success story. And every day we don\u2019t reauthorize it means Nevada jobs are on the line.\u201d\n\nEx-Im offers loans and guarantees to foreign purchasers of U.S. manufactured goods who meet strict lending qualifications when private-sector lenders cannot provide financing. Ex-Im, by law, does not compete with commercial lenders. Its mission is to fill gaps in commercial financing. Last year the default rate was less than a quarter of one percent.\n\nMore than 60 countries have export-credit agencies (ECAs), similar to Ex-Im, to promote exports of nationally-made goods. The U.S. ranks sixth, behind China, Japan, Canada, South Korea and Germany, in the total support provided by ECAs.\n\nSince 2007, Ex-Im supported sales and jobs at 21 Northern Nevada businesses in Reno, Sparks, Verdi, Carson City, Mound House, Gardnerville and Minden. Industries ranged from administrative, management and support services to manufacturing.\n\nThe reauthorization legislation also includes reforms aimed to make Ex-Im more transparent, self-sufficient and solvent. The discharge petition will sit for seven legislative days before it goes to the House floor on the second or fourth Monday of a session month.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:28:00Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-kevin-mccarthys-withdrawal-speaker-race", "Amodei statement on Kevin McCarthy's withdrawal from Speaker race", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) released the following statement regarding Rep. Kevin McCarthy\u2019s (CA-23) announcement he will withdraw as a candidate for Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cFor those who expressed frustration and a desire for change, we have now, through primary election in Virginia, through the resignation of John Boehner, and through today\u2019s withdrawal of Kevin McCarthy from the Speaker\u2019s race, gotten rid of or denied promotion to all three Republican Conference leaders who served when I was sworn in 48 months ago. I dare submit, those are significant occurrences in answering \u2018What has changed?\u2019\n\n\u201cAgainst the onslaught of constant criticism, other activities of note include: enacting the largest spending and deficit controls since 1981; protecting 99 percent of Americans from a tax increase on a permanent basis; cutting the annual budget deficit in half; funding our troops; reforming the student loan system; reducing IRS funding; repeatedly attempting to reverse the mistakes of the Affordable Care Act; opposing a bad Iran deal; and passing dozens of pro-growth jobs bills on energy, job training, regulatory reform, health care, and innovation, among others. So while it seems as if Rome is burning, the House Republican \u2018fire department\u2019 has done pretty good work when held to anything other than a perfection standard.\n\n\u201cI look forward to the 200 or so blue collar members of the majority conference continuing to work \u2013 in constant conflict with the administration and a curious (?) supporting effort from the U.S. Senate \u2013 the issues, and provide aggressive oversight for the executive branch agencies affecting businesses and families in Nevada, and to influence the policy and operations of the federal government. I will continue to make our nation\u2019s and our state\u2019s issues this office\u2019s priorities, as opposed to helping cable news networks boost their ratings.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:28:00Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=e429a753-2eb2-4394-9b39-2c925bf60e00", "RECOGNIZING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nOctober 8, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the many traditions and contributions of Americas vibrant Hispanic community. This special time is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th and honors the many Americans whose ancestors originate from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. I am proud to recognize this month in honor of the many Hispanic Americans who contribute so much to communities across our state and country.\r\nHispanic Americans make up the largest ethnic minority throughout our nation, as well as in Nevada. This community is an integral part of our state, helping shape our economy, trade, culture, and intrinsic Nevada footprint. I am thankful for the hard work and dedication of the many Hispanic Americans whose perseverance has greatly impacted the success of the Silver State.That is why I recently cosponsored a resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month and the fundamental role Hispanic Americans have in the accomplishments of the United States. I am proud to support legislative efforts that distinguish the immense efforts brought forth by this community.\r\nHispanic Americans play a critical role in our nations identity, especially in 2015. As of August 2015, Latino workers represented nearly 17 percent of the workforce and exhibited the largest percentage of labor force participation of any ethnic group with nearly 63 percent. This community is made up of hardworking physicians, surgeons, chief business executives, lawyers, educators, and many other professionals crucial to the success of our country. Latinos represent one in four public school students and 19 percent of college students between the ages of 18 and 24. Hispanic American have served the United States in every war, helping bring freedom and democracy to our country. As of July 2015, 164,000 active-duty service members from the Hispanic community served and continue to serve our country, maintaining these principal values. The vast influence this community has had on our Great Nation warrants only the greatest gratitude.\r\nMr. President, I ask that today and throughout the rest of this time set aside for Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize the many contributions that the Hispanic community brings. I join citizens across the Silver State in thanking the many Hispanic Americans who have brought greater strength to our state and our nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=6b118380-5337-400d-9ab9-27a3d9e71f23", "Heller Fights to Repeal Cadillac Tax on Senate Floor", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor, urging his colleagues to support his legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act's (ACAs) Cadillac Tax, which taxes high-cost health insurance plans. Click here or below to watch his speech.\r\nRemarks as prepared:\r\nI rise today to share my concerns with the devastating impacts of the Cadillac tax, enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act.\r\nThe Cadillac Tax is a 40 percent excise tax set to take effect in 2018 on employer sponsored health insurance plans.\r\nMr. President, this is precisely why I have authored the only bipartisan piece of legislation to fully repeal this onerous tax.\r\nIn Nevada, 1.3 million workers who have employer-sponsored health insurance plans will be hit by the Cadillac tax.\r\nThese are public employees in Carson City, service industry workers on the Strip in Las Vegas, small business owners and retirees across the state.\r\nHardly anyone in Nevada will be shielded from the devastating effects of the Cadillac Tax.\r\nAcross America, 54 percent of employers and almost 151 million workers who currently enjoy employer sponsored health care benefits will see their benefits cut or their health costs go up.\r\nGiven the devastating impact this tax will have on most of middle class America, I teamed up with Senator Heinrich from New Mexico to introduce, the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act.\r\nI am proud to say that our legislation has14 other co-sponsors and the support of over 75 organizations.\r\nSome of these organizations include unions, chambers of commerce, small business owners, state and local government employees, and retirees  and they are all saying the same thing, the Cadillac tax needs to be fully repealed or our employees will experience massive changes to their health care.\r\nWere talking about reduced benefits, increased premiums, and higher deductibles.\r\nOver 33 million Americans who use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and 13.5 million Americans who use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) may see these accounts vanish in the coming years as companies scramble to avoid the laws 40 percent tax.\r\nHSAs and FSAs are used for things like hospital and maternity services, dental care, physical therapy, and access to mental health services.\r\nAccess to these life-saving services could all be gone for tens of millions of Americans if the Cadillac tax is not fully repealed.\r\nI have heard from employers, from big business to unions to small businesses, from all over Nevada saying they will inevitably have to eliminate services their workers currently enjoy, dramatically increase deductibles and premiums, and will have to cut certain health care providers out of their networks.\r\nThis goes at the heart of Obamacares broken promises, If you like your health care you can keep it, If you like your doctor you can keep it.\r\nEarlier this week, I held a telephone town hall meeting with thousands of Nevadans from all walks of life. During the meeting I asked the participants on the call: Should the Cadillac tax be fully repealed?\r\nAlmost 70 percent of them said, Yes, the Cadillac tax should be fully repealed. Let me repeat that, almost 70 percent of them support repealing the Cadillac tax.\r\nThey see this as a burdensome and costly tax that will hurt hard-working Nevadans.\r\nThis onerous tax targets Americans who already have high quality health care.\r\nNo one claims that our health system ever was or is perfect.\r\nThe goal of health reform should be to help those who do not have health coverage, and lower costs for those who already have insurance.\r\nThis tax doesnt achieve either of those goals.\r\nIt is very rare these days to see this much agreement in Washington. Organized labor, chambers of commerce, local and state governments, and small business have come together with a bipartisan group of Senators putting forth a solution to fix a problem affecting so many hard working Americans and their families.\r\nSome members on both sides of the aisle have tried to make this a partisan issue for different reasons.\r\nThis is not a partisan issue which is evident by the fact that companion legislation to my bill in the House enjoys more Democratic cosponsors than Republican.\r\nFully repealing the Cadillac tax is an opportunity for Republicans and Democrats to join forces and work together, to repeal a bad tax for one purpose: Help 151 million workers keep the health insurance they like.\r\nThank you, Mr. President, I yield the floor (and if no one else is on the floor getting ready to speak, you must also say, I suggest the absence of a quorum.\r\nBackground: \r\nIn September, Senators Heller and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act, which fully repeals the ACAs Cadillac Tax. The two Senators introduced this Senate companion to U.S. Congressman Joe Courtneys (D-CT02) House legislation. Beginning in 2018, the Cadillac Tax would tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,450 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=c66c371f-a21b-4056-b4db-c7c6059b7fd6", "Heller Cosponsors Resolution To Recognize Filipino American History Month", "2015-10-08", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) cosponsored Senator Mazie K. Hironos (D-HI) resolution to recognize October 2015 as Filipino American History Month.\r\nAs we celebrate Filipino-American history month, I  along with all Nevadans  am proud of the great contributions this community has made to our nation, said Senator Heller. The Silver State in particular is lucky to be home to the Mighty Five, a group of Filipino-Americans who fought for Filipino veterans to be recognized for their service to the U.S. during World War II. This month also celebrates the many traditions and contributions of Americas Filipino-American community. Their rich history and culture has greatly enhanced Americas melting pot and has played an instrumental role in Nevadas economy, culture, and way of life.\r\nBackground:\r\nThe resolution honors the earliest documented Filipino presence in the continental U.S., the very first permanent Filipino settlement in the nation, and the economic, cultural, and social contributions of Filipino Americans. Currently, there are nearly 3.5 million Filipino Americans, including WWII Filipino American veterans who fought under the American flag at the request of President Roosevelt.\r\nThe resolution is supported by the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations.\r\nSenators Harry Reid (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Al Franken (D-MN), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) have also cosponsored the resolution.\r\nThe House resolution is cosponsored by Representatives Judy Chu (D-CA), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Jim McDermott (D-WA), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Jackie Speier (D-CA), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Ral Grijalva (D-AZ), Zoe Lofgren, (D-CA), Grace Meng (D-NY) Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Sam Farr (D-CA), Xavier Becerra (D-CA), Scott Peters (D-CA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Madeleine Bordallo (D-GU), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Anna Eshoo (D-CA), and Karen Bass (D-CA).\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20160907070218/https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-backs-defense-authorization-conference-report", "Heck Backs Defense Authorization Conference Report", "2015-10-01", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03) today backed House passage of the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 1735  National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2016. The NDAA is the primary mechanism through which Congress \"provides for the common defense\" and authorizes the budget authority of the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy.\nRep. Heck spoke on the House floor to urge passage of the Conference Report. Those remarks can be seen by clicking the image below.\n\"Supporting the men and women who volunteer to pick up a weapon, stand a post, and guard the freedoms and liberties that make our nation great is a primary function of the federal government - 'to provide for the common defense.'\"\n\"If the President follows through with his veto threat, service members and their families will be deprived of these significant improvements to their compensation and quality of life.\"\n\"The President has threatened to veto this conference report...I understand that he has urged some of my colleagues to vote no today. I want to make sure my colleagues know some of what they would be voting against: A new retirement plan that provides options and portable retirement benefits for individuals who serve less than twenty years, roughly 83% of the force; A pay raise for our military men and women along with many special pays and bonuses that are critical to maintaining the all-volunteer force....\"\n\nBACKGROUND:\nAs chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel (MILPERS), Rep. Heck took a leading role in crafting the improvements to our military's retirement structure contained in the final FY16 NDAA Conference Report. Those improvements establish a new 401(k)-style retirement benefit for service members, providing retirement benefits for those serving less than 20 years for the first time. This improvement ensures our nation provides for those currently in uniform while allowing us to recruit and retain the very best talent available.\nIn addition, the Conference Report includes key personnel-related provisions such as:\n* maintaining the current structure of the commissary system while allowing the Department of Defense the flexibility to explore innovations to improve this valuable benefit.\n* directing a joint uniform formulary between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs for medications to treat psychiatric conditions, sleep disorders, and pain management to ensure transitioning veterans continue to receive the best care when they leave military service.\n* enhancing protections for sexual assault victims, including expanding access to special victims counsel, protecting victims from retaliation, and improving the military rules of evidence.\n* raising pay for our military men and women along with many special pays and bonuses that are critical to maintaining the all-volunteer force.\n\n####\nCongressman Joe Heck represents Nevada's Third Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=8de0153b-6207-458a-a154-bb203e080491", "CONGRATULATING ALICIA REBAN", "2015-10-01", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING ALICIA REBAN\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nOctober 1, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Alicia Reban on receiving the Ambassador of the Year award from the Land Trust Alliance. It gives me great pleasure to see her receive this national award recognizing her years of hard work within the Nevada community.\r\n\r\nThroughout her 17 years working at the Nevada Land Trust Alliance, Ms. Reban has been a shining example of someone who dedicated her career to the betterment of her community and Nevadas open spaces. In 2000, she led a successful campaign on a ballot initiative focused on improving Washoe Countys parks, libraries, and trails. Additionally, in 2002, she served on the campaign executive committee for Nevadas State Question One for Clean Water, Parks and Wildlife, the largest conservation bond measure in Nevada history.\r\nThroughout her tenure, Ms. Reban has demonstrated professionalism, an unwavering commitment to conservation, and dedication to the highest standards of the Nevada Land Trust Alliance. I have been fortunate during my time in Congress to work with Ms. Reban on federal legislation  the Conservation Easement Incentive Act (S.330)  which makes the federal enhanced conservation easement income tax deduction permanent. This important policy would provide westerners with important tools to preserve our proud tradition of ranching, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor recreational activities. She has been a tireless advocate and an invaluable ally on this effort.\r\nAlicias advocacy on behalf of Nevadas vast natural resources and wildlife is unmatched, and I am thankful for all of the work that she has done for our great state. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Nevada Land Trust Co-Executive Director Alicia Reban on receiving this award. I look forward to continuing to work with her on conservation issues important to our state.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=86fa2f39-5446-40bb-acf4-6b4f0d3585e2", "Nevadans Support Hellers JOLT Act", "2015-10-01", "2015", "2015-10", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation to increase international travel to Nevada endorsed by Gov. Brian Sandoval, Lt. Gov. Mark Hutchison, and local business leaders\r\n(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) announced support for his bipartisan JOLT (Jobs Originated Through Launching Travel) Act (S.209). The legislation, introduced earlier this week, streamlines and improves the visa application system for foreign tourists seeking to visit Nevada. After receiving numerous letters of support for his legislation, Senator Heller issued this statement:\r\nI am honored that so many Nevadans agree the JOLT Act will help welcome even more international tourists to our state and the entire nation, and I hope that their support provides helpful momentum for this important bill, said Senator Dean Heller. It goes without saying that tourism truly is the lifeblood of the Nevada economy, and I am grateful to Senators Schumer, Klobuchar, and Lee who have been extremely powerful advocates on this issue.\r\nJOLT Act Letters of Support:\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\nOn Tuesday, U.S. Senators Dean Heller, Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the JOLT Act. Current visa procedures make it unnecessarily difficult for tourists from many countries to visit the United States. The bipartisan bill would reform and strengthen the Visa Waiver Program, shorten the waiting time for certain tourist visas, allow for certain tourists to stay in the U.S. for a longer period of time, and more. Click HERE for a summary of provisions included in the JOLT Act.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3c125ff1-44e6-4304-ac61-e492e962ef8d", "Heller Statement on Appointment of John Ruhs as Nevada BLM Director", "2015-09-30", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Following the appointment of John Ruhs as the Nevada State Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued this statement:\r\nWhile we may not agree on every issue, John is a hardworking and honest broker who has resolved a variety of long-standing disputes in Nevada during his short time as interim state director. His previous public service in Nevada coupled with his willingness to get personally involved in even the most difficult disputes makes him well-suited to serve as state director, said Senator Dean Heller. Managing the Nevada office is a tough job, and I look forward to working with John moving forward.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=d1f10bc9-798b-4eb2-9ed9-9184dae1ed0b", "Heller Legislative Priority Included in NDAA Conference Report", "2015-09-30", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after an amendment he filed to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was included in the recently released NDAA Conference Report:\r\nIm pleased to see that the final NDAA Conference Report includes my provision giving base commanders the authority to allow service members to carry a concealed personal firearm on base. With the inclusion of this language in this NDAA report, our nations service men and women will feel safe while stationed at home. Nevada has a proud tradition of military service, and I will continue working hard protecting the brave men and women serving in our armed forces both at home and abroad.\r\nBackground:\r\nSenator Heller has been adamant about protecting our nations service men and women by allowing them to carry a concealed personal firearm on base. The stand-alone legislation he introduced in the United States Senate can be found here.\r\nSenator Heller also wrote a letter in July to NDAA conferees urging the inclusion of his amendment into the final NDAA Conference Report.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=3d57bc11-3837-4243-9d36-ad2da75e3069", "Heller Leads Bipartisan Effort To Bring More Tourists To Nevada", "2015-09-29", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Bipartisan JOLT (Jobs Originated Through Launching Travel) Act Would Expand Access to Visas for Tourism, Limit Delays in Obtaining Visas, and Help Bring More Tourism to Nevada\r\n(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV), Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation that would streamline and improve the visa application system for foreign tourists seeking to visit the United States. Current visa procedures make it unnecessarily difficult for tourists from many countries to visit the United States. The bipartisan bill would reform and strengthen the Visa Waiver Program, shorten the waiting time for certain tourist visas, allow for certain tourists to stay in the U.S. for a longer period of time, and more.\r\nIn Nevada a strong travel industry means more jobs. Fortunately, Nevada ranks second to none when it comes to providing the best hospitality, trade shows, special events, outdoor recreation opportunities, and convention services. We have so much to offer, which is why I am proud to help lead the efforts on the JOLT Act. The impact of tourism to Nevada cannot be understated, and I am confident this bipartisan legislation will help welcome even more international tourists to our state and the entire nation, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nThe flaws in our visa system are preventing the U.S. from reaping the full benefits of international tourism, and its time we fix them, said Senator Charles E. Schumer. This bipartisan, commonsense bill would provide a jolt to our economy and grow tourism across the United States. Rather than perpetuating a system that ties our hands and hurts job growth, I hope Democrats and Republicans will come together to make these reforms to our badly broken visa system.\r\nTourism supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and generates over $13 billion a year in economic activity in Minnesota alone. There is huge, untapped potential to expand the international tourism market which will benefit local economies not only in Minnesota, but across the country, Senator Amy Klobuchar said. Thats why Ive championed efforts to increase tourism to our country, including reauthorizing Brand USA through 2020. This bipartisan bill will extend that effort by cutting through the red tape to streamline, strengthen, and reform a process thats been holding back international tourism to the United States.\r\n   International tourism plays a crucial role in the Utah economy, Senator Mike Lee said. People come from all over the world to ski at our resorts, hike in our parks, and visit our landmarks. We should be doing all we can to encourage people across the globe to come to Utah and the rest of the United States.\r\nThis legislation (1) reforms and strengthens the Visa Waiver Program (VWP); (2) streamlines visa processing by requiring new standards of efficiency; (3) encourages Canadian tourism to the U.S.; (4) creates a videoconferencing pilot program for visa processing; (5) requires coordination of Trusted Traveler applications; and (6) improves passport security by requiring every U.S. visitor entering through the reformed VWP to have electronic passports.\r\nWhile the global travel market is expected to double over the next decade, the United States market share of this industry has declined by five percent since 2000. The JOLT Act is aimed at reversing that trend and recapturing the United States historic share of worldwide overseas travel, which could add nearly $100 billion to the economy over the next decade and create nearly 700,000 more American jobs.\r\nA full summary of the senators proposal to help boost lagging international travel to the United States appears below:\r\n\r\nSummary of The Jobs Originated Through Launching Travel (JOLT) Act\r\nReform and Strengthen the Secure Travel Partnership Program (STPP)\r\nThe JOLT Act renames the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) the Secure Travel Partnership Program (STPP) to more accurately reflect the purpose of the program, which is to partner with allies to improve secure travel programs. Currently, a number of close U.S. allies and partners are not members of the VWP (STPP). The VWP (STPP) enables citizens of participating countries to securely travel to the U.S. for short-term business or tourism purposes without having to go through the lengthy and complicated visa application process. The bill would strengthen the program to update eligibility criteria to require applicant countries to have both a visa overstay rate and visa refusal rate of not more than 3%; reinstate the Secretary of Homeland Securitys authority to waive the 3% visa refusal rate requirement, up to a maximum of 10%, if a country meets all other STPP requirements; and directs the Comptroller General to review the Secretary of Homeland Securitys methods for tracking aliens entering and exiting the United States and for detecting visa overstays. The bill also requires that the Secretary of Homeland Security conduct an evaluation of the Electronic System Travel Authorization (ESTA), including assessment of any reforms necessary to improve the efficiency, accuracy and comprehensive vetting of travelers. Additionally, the bill would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to report on and enforce the adherence to security-related factors including a program countrys airport security standards, cooperation with U.S. initiatives combatting terrorism and in information sharing.\r\nSpeed Up Visa Processing\r\nThe legislation sets standards for visa processing saying that 90 percent of visa interviews should be conducted within 10 days of requesting an appointment. With a statutory commitment to faster visa processing worldwide, a climate of certainty would be created for future personal and business travelers, thus ensuring increased and sustained demand for travel to the United States.\r\nEncourage Canadian tourism to the United States\r\n   Under current law, without a visa, Canadian citizens are not permitted to remain in the United States for longer than 180 days. Many Canadians would remain in the United States for a longer period of time if they had a legal ability to do so. In addition, Canadians who currently return to Canada after 180 days are unable to take day-trips across the border to northern-border-states in America. The bill allows Canadians who are: (1) over age 50; (2) can show that they own a residence in the United States or have purchased rental or hotel accommodations in the United States for the duration of their stay; and (3) are not otherwise inadmissible  to stay at least 240 days per year.\r\nCreate a Pilot Program for Visa Processing via Videoconferencing\r\n   Due to lack of access to a U.S. consulate in geographically-larger countries, the in-person interview requirement remains a major hurdle for many potential visitors in high-demand markets. In order to reduce deterrents for potential visitors, the U.S. should use technology to minimize the burden of traveling to obtain an in-person interview. This bill would amend the definition of an in-person interview and require the Department of State to complete at 2 year pilot program to conduct visa interviews via secure videoconferencing.\r\nCoordinate Trusted Traveler Applications\r\n\r\nU.S. Customs and Border Protections (CBP) Global Entry program is a voluntary expedited clearance program that allows pre-approved, low-risk international travelers the ability to bypass the traditional CBP inspection process and utilize automated kiosks upon entry. Taking trusted travelers out of the normal customs inspection lines reduces wait times and allows CBP to focus their limited resources on the unknown individuals. To encourage further progress and reduction or wait times, this bill encourages State and DHS to coordinate the visa and Global Entry application and interview process for eligible travelers.\r\nRequire Electronic Passports\r\n\r\nThis bill improves passport security by closing a loophole that allows citizens of the 27 countries participating in the STPP before 2008 to use non-electronic passports if they were issued before October 2006. Biometric or e-passports are the most secure travel documents available and should be utilized by every traveler visiting the U.S. from a STPP country.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=65f8a2a5-25c5-43f4-ba74-4fb7dcc470af", "Heller Probes VA Over Veterans Exposure to Toxic Chemicals", "2015-09-29", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke at the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs hearing titled, Examining the Impact of Exposure to Toxic Chemicals on Veterans and the VAs Response. During the hearing, Heller spoke on behalf of Nevada veterans who are concerned about what impact toxic exposure has on their long-term health or the health of their children and grandchildren. Specifically, Heller asked witnesses from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) how they address the concerns of these veterans and ensure proper research is carried out to examine the potential health impacts faced by those who bravely served our nation.\r\nWhat strikes me most about this hearing is not only about exposures to toxins and how they can be linked to certain diseases for our veterans, but as important are the birth defects and other problems that affect their children and grandchildren.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-statement-john-boehner-resignation", "Amodei statement on John Boehner resignation", "2015-09-25", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 CongressmanMark Amodei (NV-2) released the following statement regarding the announcement John Boehner will step down as Speaker of the House:\n\n\u201cI want to thank the Speaker for his years of service and wish him the best. He certainly earned his spot in \u2018the older I get, the better I was club.\u2019\n\n\u201cI am hopeful that new leadership will result in some changes other than new names.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:25:19Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=3eaa8741-d83d-4f8b-a2bf-98c70f94d8dd", "IN REMEMBERANCE OF WALDO DE CASTROVERDE", "2015-09-24", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "IN REMEMBERANCE OF WALDO DE CASTROVERDE\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nSeptember 24, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to honor the life of Waldo De Castroverde, a prominent Nevadan whose legacy lives on through the work of his sons. I send my gratitude to Mr. De Castroverdes family as they continue to serve Las Vegas Hispanic community.\r\nMr. De Castroverde was a true patriot of Cuba, fighting to bring his country some of our nations most important values  freedom and democracy. In 1961, he was a paratrooper and one of 1,400 Cuban exiles who participated in the Bay of Pigs invasion in an attempt to bring greater sovereignty to Cuba, which ultimately led to his imprisonment. After being captured, Mr. De Castroverde was selected on multiple occasions to serve on a commission sent to the United States to negotiate the release of those who participated in the invasion. Two years later, Mr. De Castroverde was freed and moved to the United States with his wife.\r\nUpon arriving to the United States, Mr. De Castroverde and his wife moved to Miami, where he taught history at a local high school. In 1978, he moved with his family to Reno, where he worked rigorously to shape a bright future for himself and his family of four children. He worked as a blackjack dealer during the day, and he attended law school at night.\r\nFifteen years later, he moved to Las Vegas and started his own practice in immigration and criminal law. In 2005, he was joined by his two sons, Alex and Orlando, forming the DeCastroverde Law Firm, which has served as an incredible resource to Las Vegas Hispanic community.\r\nWhile we were saddened by the passing of this great Nevadan in 2014, he will always be remembered as an inspiring advocate of liberty and as a role model to Las Vegas Hispanic community.\r\nI am honored to commend him and his family for their work throughout Las Vegas. Today, I join citizens across our state in celebrating the life of an extraordinary Nevadan, Waldo De Castroverde.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=694f477b-65e2-415a-9cb7-5ba638caa897", "CONGRATULATING CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2 ROGER CAPPS", "2015-09-24", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2 ROGER CAPPS\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nSeptember 24, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Chief Warrant Officer 2 Roger Capps on receiving the Defense of Freedom Medal, honoring his service and sacrifice while working in Afghanistan. It gives me great pleasure to see a member of the Nevada family being recognized with this prestigious medal.\r\n\r\nIn April of 2013, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps, then a traditional lieutenant colonel, was transporting military equipment across Afghanistan for Columbia Helicopters. During the trip, he was struck by an insurgent-shot bullet that had entered the helicopter by a rare opening in the bullet-proof flooring, ultimately shattering his femur and pelvis. Though he will not receive a Purple Heart because he was working as a civilian that day, he will receive this unique Defense of Freedom Medal presented to civilian employees who are killed or wounded while working in support of the Department of Defense. His service remains invaluable to this Great Nation.\r\nEven after this difficult day, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps maintained a positive spirit. While recovering from his injuries, he reassessed his military future, ultimately opting to utilize his piloting skills. In May, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps resigned his commission and transferred to the warrant officer corps. He now serves our nation flying Chinook helicopters for the Army Guard. \r\nI extend my deepest gratitude to Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps for his bravery in serving the United States of America. His unwavering commitment to serving our nation demonstrates his genuine selfless character and love for his country. His actions represent only the greatest of Nevadas values, including dedication, courage, and a spirit to persevere in the most difficult times.\r\nAs a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I recognize that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave individuals who serve our nation, but also to ensure they are cared for when they return home.I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps sacrifice warrants only the greatest respect and care in return.\r\nThroughout his tenure, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps has demonstrated unparalleled bravery and positivity. I am both humbled and honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Chief Warrant Officer 2 Capps on his much-deserved accolade and wish him well in all of his future endeavors.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=6936d56f-7dfd-4e58-bcd4-a49c867ef4f4", "Statement on Failed Cloture Vote to Advance Another Continuing Resolution", "2015-09-24", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Hellers record is clear on pro-life issues. He voted twice to defund Planned Parenthood and just this past week voted in support of the Pain Capable legislation, said Heller spokeswoman Michawn Rich. Todays vote was not a real vote  it was another example of Congress continuing to kick the can down the road. Once again Washington is failing to do its job by trying to pass yet another short-term stop gap funding measure instead of making the hard choices needed to get our nations fiscal house in order.\r\nBackground: \r\n \r\n9/22/15: Senator Heller supported invoking cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.36, thePain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (114thCongress, 1stSession, Vote #268).\r\n8/3/15: Senator Heller supported invoking cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1881, Senators Ernst, Paul and Lankfords legislation (S.1881) to defund Planned Parenthood and transfer federal funding from this organization to other eligible entities such as state and local health departments, federally qualified community health centers, hospitals and others that provide health services to women (114thCongress, 1stSession, Vote #262).\r\n2/18/11: Senator Heller supported Representative Pences amendment to prohibit funds from being made available for any purpose to Planned Parenthood or any of its affiliates (112th Congress, 1stSession, Vote #93).\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=796a76b8-dc9a-4cb3-9436-300c31ab2804", "Heller Welcomes Final 2016 Presidential Debate to Nevada", "2015-09-23", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the University of Nevada, Las Vegas announced it will host the final presidential debate of the 2016 cycle:\r\nWith only five months left before the Nevada Caucuses kick off, there is no better place to hold the last debate of the 2016 presidential cycle than the state of Nevada. I welcome the opportunity for our state to serve as the final venue for voters to see candidates square off against each other. Hosting this debate will allow for our state to be showcased to the rest of the nation while hearing presidential candidates address issues important to voters in Nevada and across the country, said Senator Dean Heller. The Nevada family certainly came together to make this debate possible and I would like to thank everyone for their hard work. I look forward to the success of this event and for the rest of America to see all our great state has to offer.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=493c2265-f5b3-4e3d-a0e0-2f318ec99372", "Heller: This is not a win for Nevada.", "2015-09-22", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after the United States Department of the Interior announced its final greater sage-grouse land-use plans, the regulations that will limit the use of over sixty million acres of federal land throughout ten western states, including Nevada:\r\nThis is not a win for Nevada. Even though the Fish and Wildlife Service has decided the greater sage-grouse doesnt merit protections under the Endangered Species Act, the Department of the Interiors final federal plans pose major threats to many Nevadans long-term way of life and success.\r\nThis has been an issue of the Department of the Interior using the threat of a listing to get what it really wanted all along: limiting Nevadans access to millions of acres of land equal to the size of the state of West Virginia. At the end of the day, Big Government continues to tighten its grip at the expense of rural Americas future, especially in Nevada.\r\nRather than addressing the real threats to sage-grouse habitat in our state - wildfire, the spread of invasive species, and wild horse and burro mismanagement  these new regulations simply restrict Nevadans access to millions of acres of public lands. Nevadans hate to see the federal government further limit the use of their public lands. I will continue to fight these unnecessary restrictions and work with our Congressional delegation on policies that protect our environment, grow our economy, and support our western ways of life, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=08d5c391-d1a3-4a9f-a357-efd814a36cd3", "RECOGNIZING HOWARD R. HUGHES COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING", "2015-09-17", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING HOWARD R. HUGHES COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nSeptember 17, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Hughes College of Engineering for its incredible work in creating the Flexy-Hand 2 for five-year-old Hailey Dawson. Hailey was born with Poland Syndrome, making it extremely difficult to grip smaller items. The Flexy-Hand 2, a 3D-printed prosthetic device created by the UNLV engineering department, provides Hailey with new technology that addresses this difficulty, giving her the ability to participate in her favorite sport  baseball.\r\n\r\nHaileys mom, Yong Dawson, approached Brendan OToole, UNLVs chair of medical engineering, to ask if the department would be willing to create a prosthetic hand for her daughter. OToole was eager to take on the project, gathering students from UNLV and local high schools to help. The team has spent nearly two years working on the project and continues perfecting the device, including the addition of individual finger movement. Haileys current Flexy-Hand 2 is the fourth version from the university. The technology fits her palm, connecting the fingers to her wrist, ultimately giving her control of her hands grasping motion.\r\nHailey has now had two unique opportunities to show off her prosthetic hand, both throwing out the first pitch at a UNLV baseball game in March and at a Baltimore Orioles game in August. Haileys mother contacted the Orioles in pursuit of making her childs dreams a reality, asking them for a meet-up. In response, the team invited Hailey and her family to a game and allowed Hailey to throw the opening pitch. Before hitting the field, Hailey had the opportunity to meet Manny Machado and have her hand autographed.\r\nI would like to congratulate Hailey on her participation in these unforgettable experiences and on an excellent first pitch. She is truly a shining example of positivity within the Las Vegas community.\r\nI would also like to recognize UNLVs Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering and Brendan OToole for their hard work and dedication to improving the lives of others. This is an inspiring story and should stand as an example to the Nevada family. The team continues its work not only by fine tuning the Flexy-Hand 2, but also by connecting with other universities to raise awareness about the technology. I ask my colleagues to join me and all Nevadans in congratulating this incredible engineering department for its selfless work in helping a fellow Nevadan. I wish both the University and Hailey luck in all of their future endeavors.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=48f40a8c-224f-4545-8fa6-8919c4f9be2e", "CONGRATULATING KATHERINE KELLEY", "2015-09-17", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING KATHERINE KELLEY\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nSeptember 17, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate a true role model in the Nevada community, Ms. Katherine Kelley. Ms. Kelley was crowned both Miss Summerlin and Miss Nevada and recently competed in the Miss America competition. I am truly honored to congratulate her on these great achievements.\r\n\r\nThe Miss America pageant began in 1921 and is one of the worlds largest scholarship providers to young women. The initiative focuses on creating change in the lives of others and contributes a great amount of charity work in communities across the country. This characteristic of giving exemplifies Ms. Kelleys everyday life as a teacher in the Las Vegas community, working to help children excel academically.\r\nMs. Kelley  a Madisonville, Kentucky, native  moved to Las Vegas in May of 2014 and began working with Teach for America in hopes of helping with the local teacher shortage. She is currently pursuing her masters degree at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in the College of Education, studying secondary math education. Along with pursuing her masters degree, she is also a geometry instructor at Mojave High School. Her initial passion for teaching began when she spent time volunteering in the Alabama Public School system. Her experience there drove her in her aspirations to create positive change. Through Miss America, Ms. Kelley has had the opportunity to bring light to the importance of school attendance in low-income communities, as well as encourage students of both genders in their science, technology, engineering, and math studies. The scholarships that Ms. Kelley has earned through Miss America will allow her to finish her masters degree debt free.\r\nI know the citizens of the Silver State are proud to see a fellow Nevadan succeed in pursuing her dreams. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Katherine Kelley on this incredible honor. I wish her the best of luck as she serves as an ambassador for our Great State and thank her for her work in helping Nevadas students.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=1063bfb2-507c-4cd6-8cac-88146e201a06", "Heller, Heinrich, and Courtney Join to  Repeal Cadillac Tax", "2015-09-17", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced bipartisan legislation to fully repeal a provision in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) known as the Cadillac Tax which taxes high-cost health insurance plans. The two Senators introduced a Senate companion to U.S. Congressman Joe Courtneys (D-CT02) House legislation. Beginning in 2018, the Cadillac Tax would tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,450 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits. Following introduction, the U.S. Senators and Congressman issued these statements:\r\nThe reality is that in 2018, middle-class Americans will face a costly healthcare tax, the Cadillac Tax. Imposing a devastating tax on the 1.3 million Nevadans receiving employer-sponsored health insurance is a terrible idea. Hardworking Nevadans employed in the restaurant and tourism industry, to public employees, to small business owners, and retirees will all face the effects of the Cadillac Tax. This tax will reduce benefits, increase costs of premiums and deductibles, and limit healthcare choices for Nevadans. Thats why it must be repealed. Id like to thank my colleague Senator Martin Heinrich and my friend Congressman Joe Courtney for their leadership in helping to solve this problem. My hope is that reasonable Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle will join us in this important, bipartisan endeavor to protect middle-class Americans, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nDoing away with this onerous tax on employees health coverage before it goes into effect will protect important benefits for workers and ensure businesses and families get a fair deal. Im proud to join Senator Heller and Congressman Courtney in leading this bipartisan effort to ensure millions of middle-class families who rely on employer-based health care arent unfairly penalized because of this tax, said Senator Martin Heinrich.\r\nCongressman Joe Courtney added, The impacts of the excise tax are becoming clearer as businesses, workers, and municipalities grapple with benefits planningtoday in advance of the 2018 deadline. Actuaries and experts have concluded that the tax will unfairly target older workers, women, and families in expensive geographic areasdecreasing the quality of their benefits and raising out-of-pocket costs. Since I introduced H.R. 2050 in April, the massive,unifiedresponse from business, labor, and health care advocates has shown that this issue has a life of its own, and the opposition to this tax will grow louder as more peopleunderstand theextent of its impact.Iam grateful to Senator Heller and Senator Heinrich for their leadership in the Senate, and look forward to working together with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle and both sides of the Capitol to push this effort across the finish line.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=e82a13e8-990b-47f5-8286-388240d10d1b", "Heller, Heinrich Introduce  Legislation to Repeal Cadillac Tax", "2015-09-17", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced bipartisan legislation to fully repeal a provision in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) known as the Cadillac Tax, which taxes high-cost health insurance plans. The two Senators introduced a Senate companion to U.S. Congressman Joe Courtneys (D-CT02) House legislation.\r\nBeginning in 2018, the Cadillac Tax would tax employers whose health insurance plans cost more than $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,450 a year for families at 40 percent of the cost above those limits. Click here or below to watch the video.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodeis-forest-service-small-tracts-bill-passes-house-403-0", "Amodei's Forest Service small tracts bill passes House 403 - 0", "2015-09-16", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed 403 - 0 via a suspension vote legislation introduced by Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2). H.R. 1214, the National Forest Small Tracts Act Amendments of 2015, would change existing law to authorize the U.S. Forest Service to sell or exchange parcels of land under 40 acres to resolve encroachments or trespasses and to enhance the Forest Service\u2019s ability to better perform its land management responsibilities. The bill would increase the cap on the value of lands eligible to be sold from $150,000 to $500,000 and expand conveyance authority for certain small isolated parcels.\n\n\u201cThis bill, which was drafted in coordination with the Forest Service\u2019s Legislative Drafting Services, is a good example of what\u2019s possible when the lines of communication are open between the Executive and Legislative branches,\u201d said Amodei. \u201cLike many issues surrounding public lands, this solution has been around for about a decade without opposition. I\u2019m happy to be a part of getting it across the finish line. It helps local communities across the West resolve nagging land use issues without the need for a lands bill and it helps the Forest Service to better perform its duties by reducing costs through the disposal of isolated parcels of federal land.\u201d\n\nThe Forest Service indicated to the Natural Resources Committee that the agency sold off only 20 acres in 2014 and that with the updates included in HR 1214, the number would increase to between 2,000 and 3,000 acres annually. Approximately 132,000 acres would qualify nationally and 1,277 acres in Nevada. Proceeds from the sale of National Forest System lands would be deposited in an account to be used for administrative sites, recreational access or to reimburse the agency for administrative costs associated with preparing the sales.\n\nVIDEO:\n\nhttps://youtu.be/tQ4cjiSseI0\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:25:19Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-votes-no-iran-deal-approval-bill", "Heck Votes NO on Iran Deal Approval Bill", "2015-09-11", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/heck-receives-military-coalitions-award-merit-efforts-milpers-chairman", "Heck Receives The Military Coalition's Award of Merit for Efforts as MILPERS Chairman", "2015-09-10", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=45c30ec1-14af-44eb-94fd-d2b296b4f49c", "RECOGNIZING THE HENDERSON CHAMBER OF COMMERCES 70TH ANNIVERSARY", "2015-09-10", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING THE HENDERSON CHAMBER OF COMMERCES 70TH ANNIVERSARY\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nSeptember 10, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize the 70th anniversary of an important entity to Southern Nevada, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce. I am proud to honor this chamber that contributes so much in support of local businesses and Hendersons economy and job market.\r\nWithout a doubt, this citys businesses, both small and large, have a great impact on our states growth. Through the dedication and hard work of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, Hendersons business community continues to strive and maintain a high quality of life for residents. Even when Nevadas economy took a difficult turn, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce intervened, fighting to help local businesses stay on their feet. It helped owners maneuver through an adverse economic climate with innovation, creativity, and ingenuity. To say this chamber has had a positive impact on Southern Nevada would be an understatement. The strong foundation it has built will be felt for years to come.\r\nAside from helping local businesses expand and thrive, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce also offers entrepreneurs opportunities in networking, marketing, business development programs, ribbon cutting ceremonies, and career openings. The chamber has seven members serving on the Executive Board and 16 others on the Board of Directors. I am thankful for their leadership and for the great things they are doing for businesses in Southern Nevada.\r\nFor the past 70 years, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce has demonstrated absolute dedication to the Great State of Nevada and to the Henderson business community. Without the hard work of those that have served this chamber, the City of Henderson would not have demonstrated the excellent growth that we see today. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Henderson Chamber of Commerce on its 70th anniversary and in thanking it for all it does to press on and find ways to make the Nevada business community the best it can be.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=667c90c2-e7ff-4bf1-87c7-74934053f0b8", "CONGRATULATING TMCC PRESIDENT MARIA SHEEHAN", "2015-09-10", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING TMCC PRESIDENT MARIA SHEEHAN\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nSeptember 10, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Maria Sheehan on her retirement after serving as president of Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) for seven years. It gives me great pleasure to recognize her years of hard work and commitment to making this institution the best it can be.\r\n\r\nMs. Sheehan began working at TMCC in 2008 and took over the top leadership position at the community college that same year in July in the midst of a tumultuous economic downturn. Her leadership at the institution brought stability, creating a reliable administration and increased opportunity for students. During her career, Ms. Sheehan contributed greatly to the growth of TMCC, adding new buildings to the facility, including the Health Science Center at the Redfield Campus. She led the institution as it opened its Veterans Resource Center, an incredible resource for veterans wanting to go back to school after their service. She also spearheaded the complete renovation of the colleges Applied Technology Center, providing students with the technical training and education needed to help grow Nevadas skilled workforce. In addition, student success rates doubled throughout her tenure. No words can adequately thank her for her great contribution to Nevadas students. Her positive legacy will continue on for years to come.\r\nAs the husband of a teacher, I understand the important role academic institutions play in enriching the lives of Nevadans. Ensuring students throughout the Silver State are prepared to compete in the 21st century is critical for the future of our country. The State of Nevada is fortunate to be home to educators like Ms. Sheehan.\r\nI ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in thanking Ms. Sheehan for her dedication to enriching the lives of Nevadas students and in congratulating her on her retirement. She exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and service and should be proud of her long and meaningful career. I wish her well in all of her future endeavors and in her pursuit of volunteering in Central America.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=2ec293b2-ffa4-4ed8-8137-22ad59b6218c", "Heller Stands Against Presidents Deal with Iran", "2015-09-10", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) voted to end the filibuster on the resolution of disapproval of the Presidents nuclear deal with Iran:\r\nTodays vote is a failure of leadership in American diplomacy. The majority of Americans and many Nevadans saw exactly what I saw in this deal: a long list of concessions by the U.S. and few, if any, sacrifices from Iran. This agreement does nothing to effectively eliminate Irans nuclear program, nor will it do anything to help ensure the safety of Americans or our allies in the Middle East, including Israel, said Senator Heller. \r\nHeller continued, I remain concerned by continued anti-Israel and anti-America rants from Irans president and supreme leader.This rhetoric, as well as the billions of dollars that would be released to Iran under this agreement, poses a security risk for our nation, Israel, and the Middle East.\r\nI could not be more disappointed in my colleagues who voted to secure the Presidents foreign policy legacy at the expense of our national security.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-joe-heck-statement-iran-nuclear-deal", "Rep. Joe Heck Statement on Iran Nuclear Deal", "2015-09-02", "2015", "2015-09", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=de6a32e9-99d9-4b2c-a920-722b69a8283d", "Heller Letter to VA Secretary Urges Progress on New State Vets Home in Nevada", "2015-08-21", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Recently, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) sent a letter to United States Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald urging progress on the construction of a new State Veterans Home in Nevada. Hellers letter cites the demand for this facility in the state while requesting specific answers to detailed questions associated with the VAs approval process.\r\nA PDF of the letter is below.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-yerington-land-transfer-shows-process-can-work-when-focus-issues-not-politics", "Amodei: Yerington land transfer shows process can work when focus is on issues, not politics", "2015-08-20", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Mark E. Amodei", "A000369", "amodei.house.gov", "amodei", "https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Baluta, 202-225-6155\n\nYERINGTON, Nev. \u2013 Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-2) today released the following statement after the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) completed the conveyance of 10,055 acres of lands to the City of Yerington for industrial, recreational and infrastructure purposes.\n\n\"Congratulations to the City of Yerington and Lyon County for how these lands will free the community to chart its own economic future in ways not readily available to most of Northern Nevada,\u201d said Amodei. \u201cI think this success story stands as an example of how, with some patience and persistence, the legislative process can work when the focus is on the issues and not political sport. The Pumpkin Hollow project and the surrounding multiple use development will have economic benefits across Western Nevada for years to come.\u201d\n\nThe conveyance became law during the 113th Congress as part of a historic package of Northern Nevada lands bills advanced in a bi-partisan, transparent process by the entire Nevada Congressional delegation. The Northern Nevada Land Conservation and Economic Development Act enables the City of Yerington to partner with Nevada Copper to purchase, at fair market value, and develop the BLM land surrounding the Pumpkin Hollow project. It also designated approximately 48,000 acres in Lyon County as the Wovoka Wilderness Area.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T20:23:36Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8b15b762-3653-475e-8eda-782321565ba7", "Heller Applauds Completion of Yerington Land Conveyance", "2015-08-20", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller issued the following statement after the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced it completed the conveyance of roughly 10,000 acres of public lands to the City of Yerington:\r\nToday is a great day for the City of Yerington, and the entire state of Nevada, as we are finally able to see the hard work committed by various stakeholders come to fruition. As I have said before, this land conveyance will jumpstart commercial development, mining, energy generation, ranching, and timber work activities while providing a much-needed economic boost to one of the counties hit hardest by the recession, said Senator Dean Heller. I would like to thank the BLM for its work to implement the conveyance quickly. The sort of collaboration we have seen with this project will have lasting impacts in the community and stands as a shining example of how government should work.\r\nBackground:\r\nTodays announcement officially allows the City of Yerington to work with Nevada Copper to expand its mining operation and create over 1,000+ jobs while also providing the City with new infrastructure, job creation, and recreational opportunities.\r\nSenator Heller teamed with Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) and Congressman Mark Amodei (R-nv02) last congress to introduce the Lyon County Economic Development and Conservation Act. In December, the legislation cleared the U.S. Senate as part of the National Defense Authorization Act and was later signed in to law by President Obama. Senator Heller spoke on the Senate floor about the importance of this legislation. His speech and its context can be found here.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=f76c38cc-de16-421d-9d89-6961c5298a8c", "ICYMI: Heller, Feinstein Pen Op-ed", "2015-08-19", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "We need to protect Lake Tahoe for future generations\r\n(Washington, DC)  In an op-ed that ran in the North Lake Tahoe Bonanza and the Sierra Sun this week, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) outlined their thoughts regarding the protection of the Tahoe Basin. The Senators highlighted their legislation, the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act of 2015 (S. 1724), which was crafted to protect the Lake Tahoe Region by improving water clarity, reducing wildfire threat, jumpstarting innovative transportation and infrastructure projects, and combating invasive species.\r\nSenators Heller and Feinstein will join other key stakeholders at the 19th annual Lake Tahoe Summit at Round Hill Pines in South Lake Tahoe at 10 a.m. on August 24th. The event is open to the public. This years theme is Connecting Lake Tahoes Environment and Economy through Innovation and Transportation.\r\nWe need to protect Lake Tahoe for future generations By Senators Dean Heller and Dianne Feinstein   August 19, 2015\r\nIt was 142 years ago that John Muir, the famous naturalist and conservationist, first laid eyes on Lake Tahoe.\r\nMuir wrote in a letter to a friend that he sauntered through the piney woods, pausing countless times to absorb the blue glimpses of the lake, all so heavenly clean, so terrestrial yet so openly spiritual.\r\nHe continued: Tahoe is surely not one but many. As I curve around its heads and bays and look far out on its level sky fairly tinted and fading in pensive air, I am reminded of all the mountain lakes I ever knew, as if this were a kind of water heaven to which they all had come.\r\nEach of us who has fallen in love with Lake Tahoe has a similar story, that jaw-dropping first encounter.\r\nMark Twain wrote, As it lay there with the shadows of the mountains brilliantly photographed upon its still surface I thought it must surely be the fairest picture the whole earth affords.\r\nTheres a reason that Lake Tahoe attracts such notables and such fawning reviews. Its a world treasure with an unmistakable spirit.\r\nThats why John Muir pushed for it to be a National Park. Its why California and Nevada leaders came together in the 1960s to establish formal means to protect it. Its why the federal government for nearly 20 years has devoted funds to Keep Tahoe Blue. And its why last month we introduced legislation to continue that fight.\r\nThere are many threats facing Lake Tahoe, and unless we take action, the pristine beauty Muir described will soon be only a memory.\r\nWe joined our colleagues, Senators Harry Reid and Barbara Boxer, to introduce the bipartisan Lake Tahoe Restoration Act of 2015, a bill to protect Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Basin for generations to come.\r\nThe push started in earnest in 1997 when President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore hosted a Presidential Forum on Lake Tahoe. In 2000, we were able to pass legislation to begin a 10-year, $900-million restoration and conservation effort.\r\nIts been hugely successful. Weve been able to restore more than 16,000 acres of wildlife habitat, implement innovative transportation solutions, significantly reduce erosion that clouds the lake, improve water clarity and mitigate the risk of wildfires.\r\nSince 1997, the federal government, California, Nevada, local municipalities and the private sector have provided a combined total of $1.8 billion.\r\nUnfortunately, the resources that Washington chipped in have largely dried up. Our bill recommits the federal government to continue the vital projects that are saving Tahoe every day.\r\nThe bill includes fuel reduction projects to protect against the threat of wildfires. It prioritizes environmental restoration projects. And in order to strengthen the ecosystem, we allocate funds for an extensive invasive species control program.\r\nThese resources really can have an impact. Weve seen progress from decades ago usher in a new era, and we need to maintain that drumbeat.\r\nWithout additional support for Tahoe, we fear the beauty that Muir, Twain and countless others have enjoyed may be short-lived.\r\nThe vistas and natural wonders deserve to be timeless.\r\nLet us all recommit ourselves to protecting Lake Tahoes special qualities. As we preserve the water and the land, well also be preserving the lakes singular spirit.\r\nSenators Heller and Feinstein will join other key stakeholders at the 19th annual Lake Tahoe Summit at Round Hill Pines in South Lake Tahoe at 10 a.m. on August 24. The event is open to the public. This years theme is Connecting Lake Tahoes Environment and Economy through Innovation and Transportation.\r\nLink: http://bit.ly/1K62rJG\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=518de2b1-5ea2-4e8a-9ca4-4d84a3e39a16", "Heller Statement on Fallen Carson City Sheriff Deputy", "2015-08-15", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Dean Heller released the following statement regarding the death of a Carson City Sheriff Deputy who was killed earlier this morning while on duty:\r\nMy thoughts and prayers are with the men and women of the Carson City Sheriffs Office during this extremely difficult time. I would also like to extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the brave deputy we lost today. His heroism and allegiance to protecting fellow Nevadans every single day will never be forgotten, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=9cf5f034-21db-4343-a504-206c25285507", "Heller Joins Colleagues in Effort to Stop Social Security Administrations Backdoor Gun Grab", "2015-08-11", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators say old age or disability not grounds to revoke Americans constitutional rights \r\n(Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) has joined a group of 25 senators in calling on the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) to halt its plan to unfairly target the Second Amendment rights of millions of Social Security beneficiaries.In a letter to the SSA Acting Administrator, the senators call into question the Administrations recently announced plan to begin reporting millions of Social Security beneficiaries to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).The Senators say that flagging these individuals in the NICS database  a database designed to prevent gun sales to felons, drug addicts, illegal or unlawful immigrants and others  is unnecessary and misguided.\r\nNews reports have indicated that the Administration is preparing to begin providing the names of Social Security beneficiaries who utilize the representative payee system within the program and have a designated payee to the NICS. If an individual is reported to the NICS, they are instantly prohibited from purchasing a firearm from a Federal Firearm Licensee. If finalized, the Administrations unprecedented move could arbitrarily deny millions of Americans their Second Amendment rights. According to a U.S. Government Accountability Office report, over eight million individuals had a representative payee in 2013.\r\nIn the letter, the senators point to the Administrations seemingly improper assumption that these individuals are a danger to themselves or society merely because they participate in SSAs representative payee system, saying Old age or a disability does not make someone a threat to society. Having a representative payee should not be grounds to revoke constitutional rights.\r\nJoining Heller on the letter are Senators Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Mike Enzi (R-Wyoming), Dan Coats (R-Indiana), Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), David Vitter (R-Louisiana), Richard Burr (R-North Carolina), Jim Inhofe (R-Oklahoma), Rand Paul (R-Kentucky), Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Pat Roberts (R-Kansas), Cory Gardner (R-Colorado), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Steve Daines (R-Montana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska).\r\nFull text of the letter is below.\r\nAugust 6, 2015\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Carolyn Colvin\r\nActing Commissioner of Social Security\r\nSocial Security Administration\r\n6401 Security Boulevard\r\nWoodlawn, MD 21207\r\n\r\nDear Acting Commissioner Colvin:\r\nWe were disappointed to learn, through press reports rather than direct contact from the Social Security Administration (SSA) with Congress, that SSA is currently in the planning stages of implementing a new policy to report certain Social Security beneficiaries to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) used by the government to prevent gun sales to individuals who are felons, drug addicts, illegal or unlawful immigrants, and others.\r\nAs far as we know, nothing in the NICS presupposes adverse risk associated with individuals who are recipients of Social Security benefits and who also utilize representative payees. Yet, SSAs intention to implement screening of all such individuals seems to improperly presume that such a risk exists. It is not at all clear how this misguided intention is intended to be carried out or how SSA will serve as adjudicator of risks posed by beneficiaries utilizing its representative payee system. \r\nThe representative payee system is vital for beneficiaries who need assistance managing their own finances. Millions of responsible seniors and people with disabilities rely on a representative payee. As SSA explains to beneficiaries: There can be many reasons why Social Security decides someone needs a payee. However, it is usually because we have information that indicated you need help managing your money and meeting your current needs. This description does not seem to suggest that beneficiaries using representative payees are deemed to be a danger to others or to themselves. Indeed, it would be inappropriately presumptive to decide that such dangers exist merely because an individual participates in the representative payee system, even when participation is based on mental-health related reasons. Mental health conditions are varied, and SSAs intentions to report beneficiaries utilizing the representative payee system runs the risk of increasing stigma for beneficiaries with mental health conditions and unfairly judging them to be unfit to avail themselves of their Second Amendment rights.\r\nIn light of SSAs perennial complaints about lack of funding to administer its programs, it is disappointing to learn that allegedly scarce administrative resources are being devoted to an effort to deny certain beneficiaries of their rights. Those resources would more effectively be used improving service for Social Security beneficiaries, updating Social Securitys dated criteria for administering its Disability Insurance program, reducing numerous service backlogs, or even improving the workings of the representative payee system currently in place, which the Government Accountability Office recently identified as a major SSA management challenge. \r\nWe urge you to suspend further efforts to develop your plan to report old-age and disability benefit recipients in Social Security programs to NICS and to provide a detailed report to us on the basis for SSAs intention to develop such a plan.\r\nOld age or a disability does not make someone a threat to society. Having a representative payee should not be grounds to revoke constitutional rights. We strongly urge you to halt any steps to provide information on Social Security beneficiaries or Supplemental Security Income recipients to the NICS.\r\nWe look forward to your prompt response.\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSenators\r\nDean Heller (R-Nevada)\r\nMike Crapo (R-Idaho)\r\nJoe Manchin (D-West Virginia)\r\nJim Risch (R-Idaho)\r\nOrrin Hatch (R-Utah)\r\nJohn Thune (R-South Dakota)\r\nTom Cotton (R-Arkansas)\r\nJohn Boozman (R-Arkansas)\r\nJohn Barrasso (R-Wyoming)\r\nMike Enzi (R-Wyoming)\r\nDan Coats (R-Indiana)\r\nJohnny Isakson (R-Georgia)\r\nJerry Moran (R-Kansas)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDavid Vitter (R-Louisiana)\r\nRichard Burr (R-North Carolina)\r\nJim Inhofe (R-Oklahoma)\r\nRand Paul (R-Kentucky)\r\nJeff Sessions (R-Alabama)\r\nMike Rounds (R-South Dakota)\r\nPat Roberts (R-Kansas)\r\nCory Gardner (R-Colorado)\r\nRoger Wicker (R-Mississippi)\r\nSteve Daines (R-Montana)\r\nJames Lankford (R-Oklahoma)\r\nRoy Blunt (R-Missouri)\r\nDan Sullivan (R-Alaska)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=f7b0e58a-0e91-4fd7-a997-0413d4b79042", "CONGRATULATING CARSON CITY SHERIFF KEN FURLONG", "2015-08-07", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING CARSON CITY SHERIFF KEN FURLONG\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nJuly 23, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Carson City Sheriff Ken Furlong on being named the D.A.R.E Law Enforcement Executive of the Year. It gives me great pleasure to see him receive this prestigious award after years of hard work within the local community.\r\n\r\nSheriff Furlong was born and raised in Carson City. In 1975, he graduated from Carson High School and enlisted into the United States Air Force in 1978. Throughout his service, Sheriff Furlong earned associate degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice, as well as a bachelors degree in Criminal Justice Administration. He retired from the United States Air Force, Office of Special Investigation in 1998 and began work with the Nevada Department of Public Safety, Investigations Division and Parole Probation. In 2003, he was elected to the Office of Sheriff and has continued to serve the local community in this role ever since.\r\nThe D.A.R.E Law Enforcement Executive of the Year is awarded each year by D.A.R.E America and the Drug Enforcement Agency to recognize law enforcement officers who go above and beyond in drug prevention and enforcement. Sheriff Furlong reinstated the D.A.R.E program during his first term in office and has consistently worked to improve the initiative throughout his tenure, heavily involving local schools and the community. He has expanded the program to cover several topics pertaining to positive decisions in addition to substance abuse. His dedication and commitment to shaping positive futures for Carson City students is undeniable. The efforts made by Sheriff Furlong and the Carson City Sheriffs Office are truly admirable, standing as an example to neighboring communities. Along with the award, Sheriff Furlong will receive $1,000 that he has decided to put back towards the D.A.R.E America program.\r\nI also commend each contributing organization that has made this important program possible, including Grocery Outlet, the Emblem Club, Northern Nevada Coin, the Elks, the Eagles, and the Downtown Business Association, as well as the local schools that have facilitated the D.A.R.E program. Through the help of local funding, students learn about peer pressure, resistance strategies, internet use, safety, bullying, violence prevention, and the value in making wise choices. The Carson City Sheriffs Office provides numerous activities and educational opportunities throughout the year to compliment the curriculum and further inform students. This initiative is truly a reflection of Carson Citys strong and dedicated community.\r\nThroughout his tenure, Sheriff Furlong has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of the Carson City Sheriffs Department. This program could not have achieved its success without Sheriff Furlongs hard work. I am honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. Today, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in congratulating Sheriff Furlong on receiving this award, and I give my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to educate our local students on these important topics. I offer him my best wishes on the D.A.R.E program and in his role to keep Carson City safe for years to come.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=7b9b8d93-e608-4d52-8968-22ca42849e46", "RECOGNIZING DAVIDSON ACADEMYS 10TH ANNIVERSARY", "2015-08-05", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "RECOGNIZING DAVIDSON ACADEMYS 10TH ANNIVERSARY\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nAugust 5, 2015\r\nMr. Heller: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize the 10th anniversary of Davidson Academy, an institution with a noble mission to support Northern Nevadas profoundly gifted students. I am proud to honor this institution that has worked so hard to prepare Nevadas youth for successful and positive futures.\r\n\r\nDavidson Academy was established in 2005 through state legislation, designating the institution as a university school for gifted students. The academy officially opened in fall of 2006 and is a free public school located on the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) campus. Students at both the middle school and high school levels attend the academy. Individual students develop a Personalized Learning Plan, which guides them through their academic and personal goals and prepares them for their futures. Students are also able to participate in UNR courses as part of a dual enrollment agreement. The academy works to challenge its students and gives them a great opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in an advanced environment.\r\nAs a father of four children who attended Nevadas public schools, and as the husband of a life-long teacher, I understand the important role that different institutions play in enriching the lives of Nevadas students. Ensuring that Americas youth are prepared to compete in the 21st century is critical for the future of our country. Profoundly gifted students are often underserved and unfortunately, do not receive the curriculum they need to excel. The State of Nevada is fortunate to have institutions like Davidson Academy available to support students with unique needs.\r\nI ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing Davidson Academy on its 10th anniversary. This institution is truly dedicated to enriching the lives of Nevadas students, and I am honored to congratulate them on hitting an important milestone. I wish Davidson Academy well in all of its future endeavors and in creating greater opportunity for Nevadas youth.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=b17ee70d-1dec-4df2-b6c6-c4015c17ce29", "Heller Praises Pahrump VA Clinic Progression", "2015-08-05", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued the following statement after receiving an update from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that the contract for construction of the VA clinic in Pahrump has been awarded.\r\nVeterans in Nevada deserve modern VA facilities that can meet the local demand for care. The new Pahrump outpatient clinic brings much-needed health care access to local veterans in Nevada. Im pleased to finally hear the VA clinic in Pahrump is one step closer toward completion and appreciate the continued communication from the local VA hospital in Las Vegas. From day one, I have committed to holding the VA accountable to the timelines it has provided to communities across the state, and Pahrump is no exception. As we get closer to the completion of this clinic, I will continue pressing the VA to ensure this project is carried out in a timely manner. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-heck-meets-latino-business-leaders-southern-nevada", "Rep. Heck Meets with Latino Business Leaders of Southern Nevada", "2015-08-04", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=337bcd08-a20d-4ab1-8f73-bfbb549a6acf", "Heller, Donnelly Work to Close the Skills Gap", "2015-08-04", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A year after skills gap legislation became law, Senators introduce bipartisan bill to continue the effort \r\n(Washington, DC)Following the first anniversary of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) being signed into law, U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Joe Donnelly (D-IN) introduced bipartisan legislation today that requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report to Congress every two years about the current state of the skills gap. According to the Department of Labor, there are approximately 5.4 million job openings in the U.S., while the national unemployment rate is 5.3 percent.\r\nHeller said, Coming from a state with one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation, it concerns me when I hear from employers that they are having difficulty finding workers with needed skill sets. The skills gap issue has created millions of unfilled jobs throughout the United States, and I am proud to join Senator Donnelly on this critical legislation as we work to connect jobseekers with employment opportunities in in-demand sectors.\r\nDonnelly said, After the first anniversary of bipartisan legislation being signed into law to reform our federal job training system, progress has been made, but much work still remains to close the skills gap. We need to ensure that we are training Hoosiers for the jobs that are available now, so every Hoosier who wants a job can get a job and businesses can find the skilled employees needed to compete in todays economy. I am pleased my friend Senator Heller is joining me to introduce this legislation that would allow us to track progress made to close the skills gap and to know what is working and what still needs to be improved. I am hopeful we will see the day when jobs compete for the same workers instead of workers competing for the same jobs.\r\nHeller and Donnellys Biennial Report on the Skills Gap Act of 2015 would require a report from GAO on the current state of the skills gap in the United States. The biennial report would also include:\r\n \r\nan assessment of the effectiveness of federal efforts to close the skills gap;\r\npolicy recommendations to improve such efforts; and\r\nan analysis of apprenticeships and on-the-job training participation and policies.\r\n \r\nJust over a year ago, the bipartisan WIOA, which reflects many of the priorities outlined by Heller and Donnelly in the Skills Gap Strategy Act, was signed into law by President Obama. WIOA seeks to improve our nations workforce development system by making much-needed changes to modernize and improve our job training programs across the country. The bipartisan WIOA, which is still being implemented, modernizes and supports existing job training, career development, and job search assistance programs, including the nationwide system of one-stop job centers.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=3ba65703-a1a4-4dfb-876e-fffab0ddce29", "Heller: CISA Does Not Do Enough to Ensure Privacy", "2015-08-04", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Fights on Senate floor for his amendments to safeguard Americans private information\r\n(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor in support of his amendments to the cybersecurity bill which, while protecting against cybersecurity threats, also ensure Americans privacy rights are safeguarded. Click here or below to watch his speech.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://heck.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-joe-heck-statement-president-obamas-carbon-standards-announcement", "Rep. Joe Heck Statement on President Obama's Carbon Standards Announcement", "2015-08-03", "2015", "2015-08", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Joe Heck", "H001055", "heck.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LACEY, WASHINGTON  Today Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10) announced that his constituents received $1,161,198 in money saved or reimbursed by the federal government in 2017.\nWith the help of Rep. Hecks office, federal agencies have returned $2,970,640 owed to constituents since January 2013. Individual amounts recovered for constituents range from $10 to $130,463.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=5fd25d63-8bd6-4e43-8239-c6f16aa02233", "Hellers GEO Act and Permitting Bills Pass Senate Committee", "2015-07-31", "2015", "2015-07", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Yesterday, U.S. Senator Dean Hellers (R-NV) Geothermal Exploration Opportunity (GEO) Act and Public Land Job Creation Act passed the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources as part of the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015. These bills, which Senator Heller introduced at the beginning of the Congress, streamline the review process for energy and mining activities on federal lands. Following committee passage, Senator Heller issued this statement:\r\nYesterday was a good day for our nations geothermal innovators as we are one step closer to streamlining the environmental review process for their exploration efforts. Nevada is leading the charge in the United States all-of-the-above energy strategy, and this legislation ensures we remain at the top, said Senator Dean Heller. Along those same lines, we have an abundance of critical and strategic minerals that play a vital role in our daily lives. Streamlining the permitting process to develop these resources is critical to the Silver States economic future, and I am pleased these provisions were included in this bipartisan energy bill.\r\nBackground: \r\n\r\n \r\nThe Public Lands Job Creation Act streamlines the permitting process for mineral and energy development, while also preserving the time necessary for environmental analysis. Specifically, the provision provides the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service forty-five days to complete the review process of permit notices. Sec.3306 specifically is a modified version of Senator Hellers bill. The entire Critical Minerals subtitle is based off the American Mineral Security Act of 2015 (S.883), of which Senator Heller is a cosponsor.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=8441e02a-e48b-4a5f-b1c0-dbc830121ae6", "Heller Highlights Importance of Expanding Internet in Rural Nevada", "2015-07-31", "2015", "2015-07", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)  Earlier this week, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke at the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation hearing titled, Wireless Broadband and the Future of Spectrum Policy. During the hearing, he spoke about the importance of bringing more spectrum to market and the need to further discuss how to make auctions function in a more efficient and timely manner. He also highlighted how to deploy faster Internet service to rural areas across Nevada.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/notable-nevadans?ContentRecord_id=2aa7a832-3d38-4d81-ab05-9477dd7f8048", "CONGRATULATING MICHAEL HERNANDEZ", "2015-07-30", "2015", "2015-07", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CONGRATULATING MICHAEL HERNANDEZ\r\nHON. DEAN HELLER\r\nOF NEVADA\r\nIN THE UNITED STATES SENATE\r\nJuly 30, 2015\r\nMr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Michael Hernandez on his retirement after serving as Reno Fire Chief for over five years. It gives me great pleasure to recognize his years of hard work and dedication to creating a safe environment throughout Reno.\r\n\r\nMr. Hernandez stands as a shining example of someone who has truly devoted his life to serving his local community. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Government and a Master of Education from Texas A&M University. He later obtained his Executive Fire Officer credential from the National Fire Academy. Mr. Hernandez began his fire service career over 30 years ago as a firefighter medic. Throughout his tenure, he worked in every division of fire services, including emergency operations, training, Emergency Medical Service, Emergency Operations Center management, and the Fire Prevention Bureau. He advanced in his job with diligence, applying knowledge from each division to his work. Mr. Hernandez is truly a role model in the fire services community throughout Reno and across the Silver State.\r\nIn March of 2010, Mr. Hernandez was named Reno Fire Chief. Along with the position, he gained responsibility for the departments response to fires, natural and man-made disasters, and emergency medical calls. He worked tirelessly to ensure that the Reno Fire Department maintained excellent fire services for Nevada residents, even in some of the most tumultuous economic times. As chief, Mr. Hernandez provided fellow firefighters with the training and tools necessary to keep our local community safe. Mr. Hernandez is also a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Alumni Association, the National Fire Protection Association, and the Nevada Fire Chiefs Association. I am grateful for all Mr. Hernandez has done for the City of Reno.\r\nIt is the brave men and women who serve in our local fire departments that help keep our communities safe. These heroes selflessly put their lives on the line every day. I extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Hernandez for his courageous contributions to the people of Reno and to the Silver State. His sacrifice and courage earn him a place among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly put their lives on the line to benefit others.\r\nMr. Hernandez has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of the Reno Fire Department. I am both humbled and honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. Today, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Hernandez on his retirement, and I give my deepest appreciation for all that he has done to make Nevada a safer place. I offer him my best wishes for many successful and fulfilling years to come.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=2ade13aa-d58f-40b8-8bbd-88a826ae33da", "Hellers I-11 Extension Sails Through Senate", "2015-07-30", "2015", "2015-07", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Highway bill passes Senate, includes numerous Heller provisions\r\n(Washington, DC)  Today, U.S. Senator Dean Hellers (R-NV) bill (S. 842) to extend the future Interstate 11 (I-11) from Las Vegas to northern Nevada passed the U.S. Senate as part of the Highway Bill, otherwise known as the Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy Act (DRIVE Act). Following Senate passage, Senator Heller issued this statement:\r\nThis project is the result of hard work and dedication by many Nevada groups and individuals. Extending I-11 to northern Nevada will unleash markets for tourism and trade, improve our economy, and create needed jobs, said Senator Dean Heller.\r\nAs a member of three of the four Senate Committees tasked with developing the highway bill  the Senate Finance; Commerce, Science and Transportation; and Banking Committees  Senator Heller was able to secure a number of provisions in the Senate highway bill that will increase mobility, enhance safety, and spur long-term economic growth throughout Nevada and the nation.\r\nTransportation efficiency and reliability are critical to our nations economic competitiveness, and I am proud we were able to include a variety of Nevada and national priorities in this multi-year highway bill, Senator Dean Heller continued. The policies in the DRIVE Act will help address our need to maintain, repair, and expand the national transportation system, which will create short-term jobs and long-term economic growth. I look forward to working with the House and Senate conferees to move this legislation to the Presidents desk.\r\nClick here to watch Senator Hellers speech in HD\r\nNevada Governor Brian Sandoval praised Senator Heller for his work on the DRIVE Act by issuing this statement:\r\nI applaud the United States Senate for passing a bi-partisan, long-term transportation bill that will allow states to engage in multiyear planning. I want to thank Senator Heller for working to include language that will allow Nevada to begin planning the long-term future of Interstate 11, as well as language that will enhance federal funding opportunities for critically-needed infrastructure at Lake Tahoe. I am hopeful this significant step will lead to the final passage of a long term bill when Congress returns this fall,\" said Governor Brian Sandoval.\r\nMayors Carolyn Goodman (Las Vegas), Geno Martini (Sparks), and Hillary Schieve (Reno) have signaled support for the DRIVE Act. You can click on each name above to read their letters of support.\r\nBackground of each Heller provision included in the DRIVE Act:\r\n \r\nIntermountain West Corridor Development Act of 2015 (S. 842) ensures that the future I-11 is connected to northern Nevada, giving it a key role as an international trade route. Specifically, this provision provides both Arizonas and Nevadas Departments of Transportation the flexibility to develop a northern Nevada connectivity corridor and a southern Arizona connectivity corridor as part of the I-11 effort. This full north-to-south, Canada-to-Mexico interstate system is critical for our nations mobility, economy, and national defense. An in-depth look at the legislation, including a map, is available HERE.\r\n \r\n \r\nSafety Through Informed Consumers Act (STICRS) Act (S. 1535) promotes safer cars by requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to integrate crash-avoidance technology information, such as active braking and lane-tracking technology, into the safety rating information listed on the car sticker. Senators Heller and Edward Markey (D-MA) joined with Representatives Todd Rokita (R-IN) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) on this bipartisan, bicameral legislation.\r\n \r\n \r\nHours of Service (HOS) Exemption Amendment makes the existing HOS exemption for perishable goods, such as concrete, permanent. Under an existing rule, drivers of commercial motor vehicles are required to take a 30-minute break after at most eight consecutive hours of work. Industries, such as the ready mixed concrete industry  whose products are perishable  find it difficult to implement the HOS regulation given the unique conditions of their work. Once a delivery is started, it must be completed or the concrete may harden in the truck, causing thousands of dollars in damage. The concrete industry is critical to our nations transportation, and as such, its needs must be taken into consideration.\r\n \r\n \r\nLake Tahoe Transportation Planning Provision helps the Tahoe regions transportation efforts by ensuring that the populations of the California and Nevada communities surrounding the Lake are considered a singular entity. This will greatly benefit local leaders as they seek additional resources to implement the Basins innovative 21st century highway and transit plans. This language is similar to Section 7(c) of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act of 2015 (S.1724), which Senator Heller introduced alongside Senators Feinstein (D-CA), Boxer (D-CA), and Reid (D-NV) earlier this summer.\r\n \r\n \r\nTrack, Railroad, and Infrastructure Network Act (S. 769) streamlines permitting for the repair and development of new rail infrastructure. The provision, which Senator Heller worked on with Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), is critical to ensure that scant infrastructure dollars are spent efficiently and wisely.\r\n \r\n \r\nRailroad Infrastructure Financing Improvement Act (S. 797) implements a variety of reforms to the revolving loan program utilized to spur and develop railroad infrastructure. The program, which is notoriously underutilized, would improve an important tool for new freight and passenger rail development. Senator Heller teamed with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) on this provision.\r\n \r\n \r\nSafe Streets Amendment (S.AMDT.2407) addresses the continued increase in pedestrian injuries and fatalities across the country. In Nevada, pedestrian fatalities are 24.8 percent of total traffic fatalities. The state is 6th most dangerous for pedestrians over 65 years old. Senator Heller joined Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) on this amendment.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=eb7acc8e-f3bb-400f-807c-469156d9ba00", "Heller Testifies on His Bill to Combat Sexual Assault on College Campuses", "2015-07-29", "2015", "2015-07", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, DC)Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) testified at the Senate Health, Education, Labor, & PensionsCommittee hearing titled, Reauthorizing the Higher Education Act: Combating Campus Sexual Assault. The hearing addressed the Campus Accountability and Safety Act, which Senator Heller introduced alongside Senators Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Mark Warner (D-VA).\r\nDuring Hellers testimony, he emphasized the importance of their legislation to ensure all students working towards a college degree are able to focus on their studies without the threat of being sexually assaulted.\r\nFollowing the hearing, Senators Heller,McCaskill, Gillibrand, and Ayotte issued this joint statement:\r\nWe have a responsibility to make sure colleges and universities keep our students safe, and must act on the failure to properly address campus sexual assault.Thanks to the survivors who have come forward and to a growing body of research, we know sexual assaults happen on campuses large and small, urban and rural, private and public. We also know that the lack of uniform standards for filing reports or initiating investigations has contributed to cases being swept under the rug at the expense of the entire campus community. We have worked with survivors, advocates, parents, schools and lawenforcementto craft the bipartisanCampus Accountability and Safety Actand finally fix this broken system. Our comprehensive bill will make sure colleges are held accountable, creates new tools to measure campus safety and, requires schools to designate a trained Confidential Advisor to assist students.\r\nPassing the Campus Accountability and Safety Act is critical to ensuring these cases will no longer be ignored, brushed aside, and mishandled. We are grateful to Chairman Alexander andRanking Member Murrayfor convening this important hearing andhope that our testimonies shed light not just on the problem of campus sexual assault but also on the solution.\r\nSenator Hellers testimony as prepared:\r\nChairman Collins, Ranking Member Murray, thank you for the opportunity to testify today on the Campus Accountability and Safety Act. I am grateful for the committees attention to the important issue of combating sexual assault on our nations college and university campuses.\r\nI am proud to have worked alongside Senators McCaskill, Gillibrand, Ayotte, Grassley, Blumenthal, Rubio, and Warner to introduce our legislation that will address the shortcomings of current law and ensure all students working towards a college degree are able to focus on their studies instead of worrying about the threat of being sexually assaulted.\r\nWhen we first started working on this legislation, it was important for me to sit down with stakeholders in Nevada to build a workable proposal. This is why last June, I held a roundtable in Las Vegas to receive input from Title IX coordinators, police officers, and victims advocacy groups on ways to prevent sexual assault and assist student survivors. I brought their ideas back to Washington and much of their feedback helped us craft our first bill. And this is only one example of our outreach.\r\nSince the first introduction of our bill, our bipartisan working group continued to meet with stakeholders across the nation, including survivor groups, students, colleges and universities, law enforcement, and others who helped strengthen and improve our new bill that we introduced earlier this year.\r\nFrom the beginning, we have also worked diligently with your committee to ensure our final bill incorporated comments from experts on our nations education system. Our working group strongly believes we have put together a comprehensive product that will provide our schools with the tools they need to make our campuses safer.\r\nI know for me, and for many parents, watching your children go off to college is one of the proudest moments in your life. But, parents want to be confident that their sons and daughters will be safe and have access to the resources they need from their schools. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.\r\nToday, there are over 100 colleges and universities under investigation for violations of Title IX in their handling of campus sexual violence. And while we have all seen news story after news story about these tragic events, the reality is there are many more survivor stories that have not been heard.\r\nSexual assault is a crime that more often than not goes unreported, which is one of the reasons why data provided by our nations institutions simply do not reflect the prevalence of this crime. In fact, there are many colleges and universities that have reported zero incidences of sexual offenses to the federal government.\r\nI strongly believe one of the most important provisions of our bill is the campus climate survey. This survey will improve access to accurate, campus-level data by allowing students to anonymously share their experiences related to sexual assault.\r\nUnder our bill, schools will give their students an anonymous, online survey to gauge the scope of sexual assault on campus and the effectiveness of current institutional policies on this issue. The Department of Education will be responsible for developing this survey, as well as picking up its cost. Schools just need to ensure an adequate, random, and representative sample of students take the survey.\r\nThe survey results will be reported to Congress and published on the Department of Educations website. Because this survey will be standardized, the American public will be able to compare the campus climate of all schools.\r\nAs a father of four children, I wish I had access to this kind of information when my kids were preparing to attend college. And, now as a grandfather of two, my hope is that when they grow up and go off to school, our nations campuses will be safer than ever before.\r\nThe campus climate survey will be a useful, educational tool for both students and parents, as well as an invaluable resource for institutions to help create or enhance efforts to prevent sexual assault, assist survivors of this crime, and improve campus safety overall.\r\nThis provision is just one example of how Congress can act today and make ending this crime a priority. While Congress cannot legislate away sexual assault, and no bill is perfect, I believe the Campus Accountability and Safety Act is a step in the right direction towards combating this heinous crime and guaranteeing survivors have access to the resources they need and deserve.\r\nThank you again for the opportunity to testify today. I look forward to continuing our work together to address the issue of campus sexual assault as part of reauthorization of the Higher Education Act.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heller.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/videos?ContentRecord_id=2a1df132-f699-485c-a11a-bd008817f2bb", "Heller Zeroes in on Nevadas Homeless Veterans", "2015-07-29", "2015", "2015-07", "Republican", "House", "NV", "Dean Heller", "H001041", "www.heller.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Praises Nevada organizations helping homeless veterans, recognizes there is more work ahead\r\n(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke at the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs hearing titled, Ending Veteran Homelessness. During the hearing, Senator Heller spoke on the need to further progress on ending veteran homelessness. He also referenced improvements that have been made throughout Nevada and applauded the numerous community organizations making a difference in the lives of veterans struggling with this issue.\r\nEarlier this year, Senators Heller and Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced the Creating A Reliable Environment (CARE) for Veterans Dependents Act, a bill designed to ensure children of homeless veterans are also eligible for services provided to that veteran by VA-funded facilities.\r\nSenator Hellers Remarks as prepared:\r\nThank you Mr. Chairman for holding this hearing today to examine veterans homelessness.\r\nAt this Committee, we talk a lot about failures with VA health care, ending the VA claims backlog, and improving management at the VA.\r\nBut when we look at how well our nation is caring for veterans, understanding how many of these heroes are homeless should be the place we start.\r\nThe men and women who served our country and risked their lives should never have to be in this situation.\r\nHowever, the reality is that Las Vegas at one point was among the worst for veterans homelessness.\r\nI think the VA has been focused on this issue and improvements have been made.\r\nBut as long as we have one homeless veterans, we must be doing all we can to provide them the resources they need to get back on their feet.\r\nI also believe that this is not solely a VA effort. It is non-profits and organizations in the community that provide invaluable services to help veterans put a roof over their head and stability in their lives so they can be independent in the long-term.\r\nNevada is lucky to have quite a few organizations in both Southern and Northern Nevada that deserve to be commended for all that they do.\r\nIt is also programs like the VAs 25 Cities Initiative that creates better coordination with community leaders and local elected officials to find solutions to address veterans homelessness in a way that fits that citys needs.\r\nIn combination, all these efforts have contributed to a 44% decrease in the number of homeless veterans in Southern Nevada since last year.\r\nI am proud that Las Vegas is part of this initiative, and I hope that it can be expanded to other Nevada cities, like Reno, where over 150 veterans remain homeless this year.\r\nToday Id like to ask a few questions about how we can continue to reduce veteran homelessness across Nevada and our nation, as well as what we can do to prevent it from happening in the first place.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 300, "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": "NV", "p2": "2015"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 300, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NV&year=2015", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 300, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV&year=2015&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "NV", "label": "NV", "count": 300, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2015", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV&year=2015", "results": [{"value": "2015", "label": "2015", "count": 300, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2015-07-29,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eheller~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2Fvideos~3FContentRecord_id~3D2a1df132-f699-485c-a11a-bd008817f2bb", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NV&year=2015&_next=2015-07-29%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eheller~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fpublic~2Findex~2Ecfm~2Fvideos~3FContentRecord_id~3D2a1df132-f699-485c-a11a-bd008817f2bb&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 107.66124492511153, "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"}