{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"WV\" and year = 2017 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-highlights-how-west-virginia-will-benefit-from-historic-tax-reform-legislation", "Capito Highlights How West Virginia Will Benefit from Historic Tax Reform Legislation", "2017-12-27", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.27.17\n\t\t\t Capito Highlights How West Virginia Will Benefit from Historic Tax Reform Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCHARLESTON, W.Va.  Last week, Congress and the Trump administration delivered the first comprehensive pro-growth tax reform our country has seen in more than three decades. In an op-ed for The Daily Mail Opinion Page of the Charleston Gazette-Mail, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) discusses this historic legislation and outlines the many ways West Virginians will benefit.\nMake no mistake: This is an important moment for our nation. Throughout this process, I promised to do whats best for West Virginia families, workers and small businesses; and I believe that this legislation is absolutely whats best for our state, Senator Capito wrote.\nView the op-ed here and below.\nDoing Whats Best for West VirginiaBy U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.)Charleston Gazette-Mail (Daily Mail Opinion Page)December 26, 2017\nSomething big happened in Washington last week. After years of hearings and discussions and months of working through an open and transparent process, Congress passed comprehensive pro-growth tax reform legislation. On Friday, President Trump signed that legislation into lawdelivering on a promise that will have enormous benefits for our country.\nGetting tax reform across the finish line has been one of my top priorities, and its a historic and substantial victory for West Virginians and for Americans across the nation. The agreement passed last week will provide critical tax relief and create new economic opportunities for workers and small businesses. And it does that by lowering taxes across the board and making our tax code simpler, fairer and more competitive.\nThe new tax law reduces individual tax rates so middle-income Americans can keep more of the money they work so hard to earn. It significantly increases the child tax creditdoubling it from $1,000 to $2,000so more families can benefit from it. It also nearly doubles the standard deduction, which is already used by 83 percent of West Virginians. \nAll of these changes mean that West Virginia familiesnot Washingtonwill decide how to spend the money they make. Whether thats taking care of household costs, taking care of an unexpected expense or saving for the future, the choice will be theirs.\nWhat does that mean in actual dollars? Take, for example, a family of four earning the median family income of $73,000 per year. Under the new law, that family will see a tax cut of more than $2,000. For a married couple earing $55,000 per year with two kids will go from owing roughly $800 in taxes to owing nothing. Were talking about making a real, tangible difference in the lives of West Virginians.\nBut thats just the beginning.\nThe new tax law will also help small businesses succeed and make sure American companies remain competitive globally. As it does for individuals, the law lowers tax rates for businesses of all sizes. \nIt also includes a simple tax deduction for small business owners that will be easier to administer and free up resources that could be used to grow their companies. Thats an especially important change in West Virginia where 95 percent of our businesses are small businesses. These companies are truly the backbone of our local economy, and they employ half of our private-sector workforce.\nWhen it comes to larger businesses, in addition to lowering the corporate tax rate, the new law modernizes our international tax system. That means it will make it easier for businesses to bring home money they earn overseas and encourage them to invest more here at home.\nThese reforms are all significant on their own, but its their combined effect that makes the new law a truly significant achievement. Because of these changes, West Virginians and so many others are going to see higher wages, more jobs and new opportunities to get ahead. Thats not a talking point. Its something Ive heard time and time again from West Virginia small business owners, from constituents who are tired of a struggling economy and stagnant wages, and from groups representing a wide variety of industries that are critical to our state.\nOf course, there has also been a lot of misleading rhetoric from critics and political theatrics from naysayers who never really planned to support this effort. But Im confident that next yearwhen workers see larger paychecks and communities feel the benefits of greater economic growthit will be clear that this legislation is exactly the kind of big and bold solution our country needs and West Virginians deserve.\nMake no mistake: This is an important moment for our nation. Throughout this process, I promised to do whats best for West Virginia families, workers and small businesses; and I believe that this legislation is absolutely whats best for our state.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-applauds-senate-passage-of-anti-fentanyl-legislation", "Capito Applauds Senate Passage of Anti-Fentanyl Legislation", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t Capito Applauds Senate Passage of Anti-Fentanyl Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bipartisan bill she introduced now heads to presidents desk\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.)along with Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio)today hailed Senate passage of the INTERDICT Act, their bipartisan legislation that would help stop the flow of the illicit opioid fentanyl across the U.S. border. The bill will help equip U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with scanning devices and other technologies to detect synthetic opioids like fentanyl.    Just this week, we learned that West Virginia continues to lead the country in overdose deaths, but we are not the only state that is being forced to deal with the tragic consequences of the growing opioid epidemic. Given the scope and the impact of this national crisis, its going to take a comprehensive, all-hands-on-deck approach to fight it, and enforcement is a big part of that strategy, Senator Capito said. I was proud to introduce the INTERDICT Act with Senator Markey and will continue working to make sure our law enforcement professionals have the tools and resources they need to keep illicit substances out of our country and off of our streets.    In data released this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that more than 42,000 Americans died from an opioid overdose in 2016, with nearly half being directly attributed to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Mexico is the primary source for illicit fentanyl trafficked into the United States, while distributors in China are the principal source of the precursor chemicals used to manufacture the drug, as well as a source for finished-product illicit fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, which are often shipped to the United States through the mail and express consignment carriers.    Specifically, the INTERDICT Act:  \r\n \r\nEnsures that CBP will have additional portable chemical screening devices available at ports of entry and mail and express consignment facilities and additional fixed chemical screening devices available in CBP laboratories.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nProvides CBP with sufficient resources, personnel and facilitiesincluding scientists available during all operational hoursto interpret screening test results from the field.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nAuthorizesbased on CBP guidancethe appropriation of $15 million for hundreds of new screening devices, laboratory equipment, facilities and personnel for support during all operational hours\r\n \r\n  Companion legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Niki Tsongas (D-Mass.) passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 412-3 in October.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-writes-to-labor-secretary-acosta-on-black-lung-regulation", "Capito Writes to Labor Secretary Acosta on Black Lung Regulation", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t Capito Writes to Labor Secretary Acosta on Black Lung Regulation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today wrote to U.S. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta regarding the Mine Safety and Health Administrations (MSHA) Respirable Dust Rule. The agency recently called for comment as part of a review of the rule, which was implemented in an attempt to protect our nations miners from coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP), known as black lung disease.    I have visited black lung clinics in West Virginia, met with miners and retired miners who suffer from this terrible illness, and I am concerned by reports that black lung rates in the Appalachian region are increasing, Senator Capito wrote. It is important that MSHA and industry leaders work together to protect the health of our miners and combat black lung disease.    MSHA has not proposed any action that would repeal or alter the Respirable Dust Rule but is accepting comment on ways it could be improved.    The full letter is below and available here.    The Honorable Alexander Acosta  Secretary  United States Department of Labor  200 Constitution Avenue N.W.  Washington, DC 20210    Re: Retrospective Study of Respirable Coal Mine Dust Rule    Dear Secretary Acosta:    On December 14, 2017 the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) announced that it will be accepting public comment as part of a review of the agencys Respirable Dust Rule. This announcement was part of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) Unified Agenda and Regulatory Plan (Unified Agenda).    The Respirable Dust Rule was implemented in an attempt to protect our nations miners from coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP), known as black lung disease, a serious and debilitating disease that can be fatal. I have visited black lung clinics in West Virginia, met with miners and retired miners who suffer from this terrible illness and I am concerned by reports that black lung rates in the Appalachian region are increasing. It is important that MSHA and industry leaders work together to protect the health of our miners and combat black lung disease.    To date, MSHA has not proposed any action that would repeal or alter the Respirable Dust Rule. However, according to the Unified Agenda, MSHA is accepting comment on ways that the current Black Lung rule could be improved or made more effective or less burdensome. MSHA is also conducting a retrospective review of the current rules effectiveness.    As you examine the Respirable Dust Rules effectiveness and public comments about ways that it could be potentially be improved, I ask that you avoid any action that would reduce the protections afforded to miners under the current regulation. The health of our miners should be MSHAs first priority as it considers any future action related to this rule. I would oppose any change to the Respirable Dust Rule that fails to maintain current standards if such a proposal were made.    I am a strong supporter of efforts to reverse or reform regulations that are ineffective or overly burdensome. It is critical, however, that we preserve policies that protect the safety and health of our nations coal miners. As the administration considers public comments in response to the announcement in the Unified Agenda, I urge you not to propose any change that would weaken the protection provided to our miners by the Respirable Dust Rule.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-wishes-west-virginians-a-merry-christmas-looks-ahead-to-2018", "VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Merry Christmas, Looks Ahead to 2018", "2017-12-22", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Merry Christmas, Looks Ahead to 2018 \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nClick here or the image above to watch the video.**Download the video here.**\r\nCHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released a video message ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.\nFull video transcript included below:\nMerry Christmas!\nI am excited to spend the holidays with family and friends at home in West Virginia.\nAs we reflect on 2017, we have so much to be grateful for, and I am excited about whats ahead in the new year.\nDuring this holiday season, please join me in celebrating the meaning of Christmas  the birth of the Lord and savior Jesus Christ.\nPlease also continue to spread joy, happiness and kindness throughout your communities into the new year.\nIm also incredibly thankful for our troops. These men and women bravely serve this country, often far away from home and their loved ones.\nFrom my family to yours, Merry Christmas. I look forward to working together to accomplish more great things for West Virginia in the year ahead.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-asks-hud-award-grant-huntington-fairfield-project", "REP. JENKINS ASKS HUD TO AWARD GRANT FOR HUNTINGTON-FAIRFIELD PROJECT", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) today urged the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Administration to award Huntington a grant to help revitalize Huntingtons Fairfield neighborhood.\nRep. Jenkins spoke with HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Housing Dominique Blom on Wednesday to express his strong support for the Huntington Housing Authoritys application for a HUD Development Choice Neighborhoods Planning and Action grant. He has also contacted HUD Secretary Ben Carson to bring Huntingtons grant application to his attention.\nThe city has applied for a grant of up to $1.3 million to implement the citys Fairfield Choice Neighborhood Revitalization project.\nI was very pleased with the conversation I had with Deputy Assistant Secretary Blom about how important this funding is for the city of Huntington. The Fairfield Choice Neighborhood Revitalization project is an important step forward for our community, and I will continue to push for funding for this important grant, Rep. Jenkins said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-votes-fund-chip-wv-disaster-aid", "REP. JENKINS VOTES TO FUND CHIP, WV DISASTER AID", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today after voting to keep the government open, provide about $3 billion in critical funding for CHIP, and bring more than $30 million in disaster aid to West Virginia:\nI remain very disappointed that Senate Democrats wont come to the table to work out a long-term reauthorization of CHIP. The House voted nearly two months ago to reauthorize this critical program, yet Senate Democrats werent on board. Todays vote provides about $3 billion for CHIP, and I hope my colleagues will set aside partisan politics and vote to secure this critical program for West Virginias children, Rep. Jenkins said.\nThe bills passed by the House today provide about $3 billion in short-term CHIP money to keep state CHIP programs funded, as well as continued funding for community health centers. It also includes more than $30 million in continued flood relief and mitigation efforts for West Virginia through the Community Development Block Grant program.\nThe legislation also provides critical funding and support for our military and national defense.\nThe House passed a five-year reauthorization bill in November, which Rep. Jenkins strongly supported, but the full Senate has yet to take up a CHIP reauthorization bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-bipartisan-group-urge-dea-to-act-swiftly-on-partial-fill-law", "Capito, Bipartisan Group Urge DEA to Act Swiftly on Partial Fill Law", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Bipartisan Group Urge DEA to Act Swiftly on Partial Fill Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) today sent a letter urging the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to update regulations and guidance related to the partial filling of Schedule II controlled substances. Doing so would give prescribers and pharmacists additional clarity about the new provisions of federal law and other steps that can be taken to better address the nations opioid crisis. The senators were joined by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), chairman and ranking member of the Judiciary Committee which has jurisdiction over the DEA. U.S. Representatives Katherine Clark (D-Mass.) and Steve Stivers (R-Ohio) also signed the letter.    More than 33,000 Americans died from opioid-related drug overdoses in 2015, and prescription painkillers continue to be a major contributor to the epidemic. According to data released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Virginia continues to lead the nation in drug overdose deaths. Senators Warren and Capito and Representatives Clark and Stivers introduced bipartisan legislation that was incorporated in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) to enable patients or physicians to request a partial fill of any Schedule II medication, including prescription opioids like OxyContin and Vicodin.    Outdated DEA regulations, which include a different definition of partial filling from the definition provided in CARA, have led to significant confusion on the part of pharmacists and prescribers, the members of Congress wrote. These health care providers are critical partners in the fight against the opioid epidemic but are reluctant to move forward with implementation of the law or to proactively implement programs to partially fill initial opioid prescriptions until the DEA updates its regulations.    In response to recent letters from Senators Capito and Warren inquiring about their implementation of partial fill authorities, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) and the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) indicated that many of their members have expressed significant confusion regarding outdated DEA regulations. Medical member organizations are ready and willing to inform their members about partial fill policies, but the DEA needs to issue clear federal guidance so they can disseminate additional information.    According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, over 70 percent of people who misuse prescription painkillers got them from a friend, relative or doctor. Encouraging prescribers and pharmacists to embrace partial fill policies for their patients would help reduce the number of opioids that are misused in homes and communities across the country.    A PDF of the letter sent today is available here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-supports-passage-of-continuing-resolution-to-fund-government-will-continue-push-for-long-term-chip-funding", "Capito Supports Passage of Continuing Resolution to Fund Government, Will Continue Push for Long-Term CHIP Funding", "2017-12-21", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.17\n\t\t\t Capito Supports Passage of Continuing Resolution to Fund Government, Will Continue Push for Long-Term CHIP Funding \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement after voting to pass a continuing resolution that will fund the government through January 19, 2018.    I am pleased that Congress passed this short-term bill to fund important programs and priorities, including resources for our national security. This continuing resolution extends the VA Choice program that provides health care to our veterans, funds community health centers and extends the State Childrens Health Insurance Program or CHIP. These programs are essential to West Virginias veterans, families and children. I am committed to working with my colleagues to enact a full-year government funding bill and long-term funding for the CHIP program early in 2018.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-congratulates-michael-stuart-on-senate-confirmation", "Capito Congratulates Michael Stuart on Senate Confirmation", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.17\n\t\t\t Capito Congratulates Michael Stuart on Senate Confirmation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Stuart to serve as U.S. Attorney for Southern District of West Virginia\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today congratulated Michael Stuart after the Senate confirmed him to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. Senator Capito recommended Stuart for the position and issued the following statement regarding his confirmation:\nI was proud to recommend Michael Stuart to serve as the next U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia and to support his nomination throughout the confirmation process. His impressive career and his commitment to honorably and ethically upholding the law make him a strong and qualified choice for this position. I have no doubt that his skill and his character will make him an effective and respected U.S. Attorney.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-pass-historic-pro-growth-tax-reform-legislation", "Capito Votes to Pass Historic Pro-Growth Tax Reform Legislation", "2017-12-20", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.17\n\t\t\t Capito Votes to Pass Historic Pro-Growth Tax Reform Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today voted in support of the comprehensive pro-growth tax reform legislation. Senator Capito issued the following statement after the Senate passed the bill 51-48:    Today, we secured a historic and substantial victory for West Virginians and for Americans across the country. Make no mistake: This is an important moment for our nation. Throughout this process, I promised to do whats best for West Virginia families, workers and small businesses; and I believe that this legislation is absolutely whats best for our state. These reforms will cut taxes and allow middle-income families to keep more of their hard-earned money. They will help small businesses grow and succeed and make sure American companies remain competitive globally. They will lead to higher wages, more jobs and new opportunities to get ahead.    As with any major legislative push, there has been a lot of misleading rhetoric from critics and political theatrics from naysayers who never really planned to support this effort. Im confident that next yearwhen workers see larger paychecks and communities feel the benefits of greater economic growthit will be clear that this legislation is exactly the kind of big and bold solution our country needed. I worked hard to advance these critical reforms; I was proud to vote in support of them; and as chairman of the Appropriations subcommittee with jurisdiction over the IRS, I look forward to overseeing their implementation next year.    Click here for more information on the legislationwhich received broad support from West Virginia leaders and groups representing a wide variety of industries important to the state.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-house-passes-landmark-tax-reform-bill", "REP. JENKINS: HOUSE PASSES LANDMARK TAX REFORM BILL", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the conference report for the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act:\nThis bill is a result of working closely with President Trump to craft job-creating tax reform that works for West Virginias families and small businesses. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act means that our middle-class families will keep more of their money. A single parent of two children who earns $52,000 will get to keep nearly $1,900 more of their hard-earned money, thanks to this bill. We will also help our states economy continue to grow by encouraging companies to invest in America and create jobs here at home. Im looking forward to seeing this bill on the presidents desk before Christmas so we can deliver tax cuts in the new year, Rep. Jenkins said.\nThe report is the House-Senate agreement on the bill. The report now heads to the U.S. Senate for a vote.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1199", "McKinley Votes for Historic Tax Reform", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, the House passed the final version of H.R. 1, theTax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was negotiated by a joint House and Senate conference committee. This bill makes Americas tax system fairer, simpler and lowers taxes on the middle-class. The final bill includes several provisions championed by Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1).\r\nThis is a historic moment for the American people. It has been 31 years since we updated our burdensome tax code. This reform will bring some much-needed relief to the middle-class, remove special interest loopholes, lower rates, double the standard deduction (which over 80% of West Virginians currently use), double the child tax credit, and make the tax code simpler, said McKinley.\r\nTake for example the average married couple in West Virginia who make $42,000 a year. Under the old tax system, they wouldve paid $3,398 in taxes. Under this new plan, they will pay just $1,800. Thats a savings of almost 50%, which will be huge for West Virginia tax payers, added McKinley.\r\nThroughout this process, we pushed to make sure our priorities were included. We did not take our eye off the ball. In so doing, we successfully maintained the Historic Preservation Tax Credit, education credits that will make college more affordable, credits for clean coal research, and successfully removed provisions that would cost local jobs, McKinley said.  \r\n\r\nBackground\r\nTheTax Cuts and Jobs Actdelivers on the promises made by Congressional Republicans and President Trump to lower middle-class tax rates and open the door for more private sector job creation.\r\nTheTax Cuts and Jobs Act:\r\n \r\n    Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle-income Americans to Zero, 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%.\r\n    Doubles the standard deductionfrom $6,500 to $12,000 for individuals and $13,000 to $24,000 for married couples.\r\n    Average middle-class family of four will save $2,059 per year on taxes.\r\n    West Virginia will see a $1,685 increase in median household income.\r\n    Expands the Child Tax Creditfrom $1,000 to $2,000 to help parents with the cost of raising children.\r\n    Preserves the home mortgage interest deductionfor existing mortgages and maintains the credit for newly purchased homes up to $750,000.\r\n    Retains popular retirement savings optionssuch as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts so Americans can continue to save for their future.\r\n    Eliminates Obamacares individual mandate, providing families with much-needed relief and the flexibility to buy the health care thats right for them.\r\n    Provides relief for Americans with expensive medical billsby expanding the medical expense deduction for 2017 and 2018 for medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of adjusted gross income, and rising to 10% beginning in 2019.\r\n    Provides support for graduate studentsby continuing to exempt the value of reduced tuition from taxes.\r\n    Lowers the corporate tax ratefrom 35% to 21%, opening the door for private sector job growth.\r\n    Makes it easier and far less costly for American businesses to bring home foreign earningsto invest in creating jobs and increasing paychecksin our local communities.\r\n \r\n\r\nMcKinley successfully worked with House leadership to ensure that the tax reform package retains the Historic Preservation Tax Credit, critical clean coal research credits, higher education credits and a full repeal of the corporate alternative minimum tax.  For more information about our releases, please contact (202) 225-4172", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-alex-x-mooney-plans-vote-tax-cuts-all-americans", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney Plans to Vote for Tax Cuts for all Americans", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Alex Mooney", "M001195", "mooney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney Plans to Vote for Tax Cuts for all Americans\nToday, Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-2) intends to vote for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to deliver tax cuts for all West Virginians. He released the following statement:\nThe Tax Cuts and Jobs Act means an average family of four will receive a $2,059 tax cutthat means more money in the pockets of all Americans.\nThe bill doubles the standard deduction for all taxpayers, meaning that a couples first $24,000 of income will be tax free. Furthermore, the bill doubles the child tax credit to $2,000. The bill also reduces taxes on small businesses (from 35% to 25%) and will encourage job growth in West Virginia.\nPresident Donald Trump has been a true leader on delivering tax relief for all Americans and I am looking forward to continuing to work with him to create more jobs and to keep our economy growing.\nFinally, this bill will reverse the flow of jobs leaving our country by reducing the corporate tax from 35% to 21%, which will make us again competitive with the rest of world.\nTherefore, I will be voting for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act today, said Rep. Mooney.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-and-manchin-announce-more-than-12-million-for-west-virginia-head-start-programs", "Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $1.2 Million for West Virginia Head Start Programs", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Skip to primary navigation Skip to content\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\t    \n\t      \n\t      \n\t        \n\t       \t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t  About\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t  Working For West Virginia\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t  News\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t  Contact", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/west-virginians-agree-tax-reform-will-help-our-state", "West Virginians Agree: Tax Reform Will Help Our State", "2017-12-19", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.17\n\t\t\t West Virginians Agree: Tax Reform Will Help Our State \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote today on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, pro-growth tax reform legislation that President Donald Trump recently described as vital to the American people. The billwhich the Senate is also expected to vote on early this weekwill provide tax relief for middle-income families, help small businesses grow and create new economic opportunities across the country. And West Virginians agree.    As Congress prepares to vote on sending tax reform legislation to the presidents desk, manufacturers, small businesses, conservatives, news outlets and groups representing a wide variety of industries important to West Virginia are sharing their support.    West Virginia Chamber of CommerceFederal tax reform is crucial to continued job creation and economic development in West Virginia. This effort is a real win-win. By making tax rates more competitive, small businesses will be able to reinvest in growing their operations and creating more jobs, and individuals will be able determine how best to spend their hard-earned money, further stimulating economic growth.  Steve Roberts, president of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce    West Virginia Manufacturers AssociationManufacturers large and small know this reform would mean more jobs in America, more investment in America and more men and women making things in America. West Virginia manufacturers are grateful to the Senators who stood with us and voted for tax reform aimed at creating a more competitive manufacturing environment. The current tax system is hurting workers in West Virginia. Our elected leaders now need to seize this opportunity, get tax reform across the finish line and send it to President Donald Trumps desk.  Rebecca McPhail, president of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association    National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)Both [the Senate and House] versions [of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act] recognize the need for small business tax relief, which means businesses could reinvest in their businesses and employees, create local jobs in rural and urban areas of West Virginia  We cant afford to miss this once-in-a-generation opportunity to help Main Street businesses grow and create jobs.  Gil White, West Virginia state director of the NFIB    The Intelligencer Wheeling News-Register EditorialIf approved, perhaps this week, by both chambers, the [Tax Cuts and Jobs Act] would go to President Donald Trump for his signature. If that happens, it would be an early Christmas present for virtually all Americans  Lawmakers should approve the compromise bill. Americans deserve more jobs. We have earned tax relief for ourselves.    West Virginia Governor Jim JusticePresident Trump is continuing to keep his promise to Americans to help grow our country by providing our average families with significant tax relief. By simplifying and streamlining the tax filing process it lifts a huge burden off of the middle class. Higher standard deductions and lower rates for businesses will also encourage economic growth and the creation of jobs. I urge our Congressional representatives to vote for this tax reform package so President Trump can sign it into law.West Virginia Oil Marketers & Grocers Association (OMEGA)This is critical and transformative legislation that will help state residents and businesses. The relief provided in the federal tax reform legislation will allow West Virginians to keep more of their hard earned money while providing businesses the opportunity to invest in their people and products. We appreciate the efforts of our leaders in Congress to bring this bill to fruition and look forward to its implementation in 2018.  Traci Nelson, president of OMEGA    National Mining Association (NMA)The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act contains reforms that will drive job creation and retention in U.S. mining  Together, these pro-growth policies will stimulate investment that will lead to more good jobs for American workers, more affordable energy from the nation's world-leading coal supply and sustainable mineral production that we need for manufacturing, infrastructure improvements and new technologies.  Hal Quinn, president and chief executive officer of NMA    West Virginia Senate President Mitch CarmichaelFor the first time in more than 30 years, the opportunity has arrived: We have a chance to deliver tax relief to millions of working families, create a fairer and simpler tax code for all Americans, and deliver significant tax relief to small businesses, which are truly the foundation of our economy  West Virginians stand to benefit tremendously from this tax relief.West Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Tim ArmsteadPresident Trump and leaders in Congress are working diligently on a massive rewrite of our federal tax code. Its the most aggressive tax reform proposal weve seen since the Reagan administration, and it would have tremendous benefits for our state  Now I hope Congress will quickly move on [the presidents] plan to bring prosperity and hope to all sectors of our economy.Americans for Prosperity[Senator Capitos] support means that West Virginians are one step closer to bigger paychecks, more jobs, and a truly historic chance at enhanced prosperity  Americans will see the many benefits of tax reform in their larger paychecks and in the ability of their neighbors and friends to better live out their version of the American dream.  Jason Huffman, state director of the West Virginia chapter of Americans for Prosperity    With so many voicing their support for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the choice is clear: A vote for this pro-growth tax reform legislation is a vote for West Virginians. As Senator Capito said on the Senate floor last week:    Its time to seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity. It is time now to get tax reform across the finish line. And it is time to send this pro-growth legislation to President Trumps desk. Families, workers and small businesses in West Virginia and across this country are counting on us.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-statement-tax-cuts-jobs-act", "REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON TAX CUTS & JOBS ACT", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today on the House and Senate agreement on the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act:\nThe work the House and Senate have done over the past weeks has strengthened this legislation. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act preserves important West Virginia priorities, including the mortgage interest deduction, the historic tax credit and the medical expenses deduction. I personally advocated for West Virginias priorities and worked with leadership to make sure they were included in the final bill. Ive made the conference report and a summary available on my website so West Virginians can join me in carefully reviewing the bill before next weeks vote, Rep. Jenkins said.\nThe conference report and a two-page summary are available on Rep. Jenkins website at https://evanjenkins.house.gov/issues/tax-reform.\nUnder this bill, a family of four earning the median family income of $73,000 will receive a tax cut of $2,059.\nIt also protects coal jobs by repealing the alternative minimum tax, which prevents investment in new equipment for mines.\nAdditionally, it preserves critical deductions and credits, including:\n \nMedical expense deductions\n\tHistoric tax credits\n\tTax-free graduate school tuition waivers\n\tStudent loan interest deductions\n\tMortgage interest deductions\n\tState and local tax deductions\n\tDeductions for teachers buying classroom supplies\n\tAdoption tax credits.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1198", "McKinley Secures Crucial Tax Reform Victories", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, a joint House and Senate conference committee released the final version of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The final bill includes several provisions championed by Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1).\r\nThroughout this process, our office sought to get the best deal possible for West Virginians. Even after the House passed the tax reform bill and started negotiations with the Senate on the final version, we pushed to make sure our priorities were addressed. We did not take our eye off the ball, said McKinley.\r\nThrough perseverance, we successfully worked to maintain the Historic Preservation Tax Credit, education credits that will make college more affordable and clean coal research credits, and successfully removed provisions that would cost local jobs. I applaud Chairman Kevin Brady and the negotiators on the conference committee for taking action on these critical issues. This plan will deliver much needed relief for middle income families and make our tax code fairer and simpler, McKinley added.\r\nThis is a historic moment for the American people. Our legislation to finally reform America's broken tax code will deliver more jobs, bigger paychecks, and fairer taxes to hardworking families and job creators throughout the country, said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX). I'm grateful to Congressman McKinley for his leadership on the Historic Tax Creditand for his work in support of making pro-growth, pro-family tax reform a reality for the American people.\r\n\r\nBackground\r\nMcKinley successfully worked with House leadership to ensure that the tax reform package retains the Historic Preservation Tax Credit, critical clean coal research credits, higher education credits and a full repeal of the corporate alternative minimum tax.\r\nThe Historic Preservation Tax Credit has directly aided in the revitalization of Main Streets and rural communities nationwide. Over 40% of the projects using this credit have been in rural communities, breathing new life into their downtowns and attracting investment. The Historic Tax Credit pays for itself, generates $29.8 billion in tax revenue and brings in $1.18 for every dollar spent.\r\nTo ensure its inclusion, McKinley:\r\n \r\n    Had more than a dozen contacts with leadership in the House, Senate, and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady\r\n    Secured a promise from Chairman Brady on the House floor that the credit would be included in the final version.\r\n    Led a bipartisan letter with 32 other Members voicing support for its inclusion.\r\n \r\nThe corporate alternative minimum tax would have had devastating impacts on the coal industry. Coal companies invest heavily in new equipment, oftentimes doing so with large borrowing costs. The industry is very capital-intensive, with many leveraged employers. If the corporateAMT had remained in the tax code, paired with new limits on interest deductibility, many companies would have had a higher tax burden. To ensure this tax was removed from the final version, McKinley organized a letter to leadership with 26 members.\r\nMcKinley signed onto a letter with 31 other Members requesting leadership to include the qualified tuition reductions and tuition assistance from employers provisions in the final tax reform bill. These provisions make college more affordable and ensure that our students aren't starting out in the workforce saddled with large amounts of debt.  For more information about our releases, please contact (202) 225-4172", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-urge-congressional-leadership-to-commit-resources-to-opioid-epidemic", "Capito, Manchin Urge Congressional Leadership to Commit Resources to Opioid Epidemic", "2017-12-15", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.15.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Urge Congressional Leadership to Commit Resources to Opioid Epidemic \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  As the nations opioid epidemic continues to ravage communities across the country, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today joined a bipartisan group of senators in calling on Senate leadership to provide states with the resources they need to tackle this ongoing public health emergency.    In their letter, the bipartisan group urge Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) to include additional funding dedicated to addressing the crisis in the upcoming supplemental and omnibus appropriations legislation.    Opioid misuse is not a partisan issue. It is ravaging communities in every state and preys upon individuals and families regardless of party affiliation, the senators wrote. We have worked together on this issue in the past, and with the clear statement from [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Acting Secretary Eric Hargan] that the administration is looking for Congress to lead the way, it is time for us to work together again. As the Senate considers pending supplemental and omnibus appropriation legislation, please make every effort to ensure that new, substantial and sustained funding for the opioid epidemic is included in any legislative package.    Other senators signing the letter include U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Angus King (I-Maine) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.).    The full text of the letter is below, and a PDF is available here.    Dear Majority Leader McConnell and Democratic Leader Schumer:    We write today to discuss our Nations opioid misuse epidemic and the urgent need for Congress to provide our states with the resources they need to deal with this public health emergency. In light of recent statements from the administration asking Congress to act on this issue, we believe the upcoming supplemental and omnibus appropriations legislation present significant opportunities for additional funding.    As you are aware, the opioid misuse epidemic is taking a toll on individuals, families and communities across the Nation. It is tearing apart families and straining the resources of local governments, law enforcement and public health agencies. Although we are pleased by the recent declaration of the epidemic as a public health emergency, that action needs to be coupled with adequate, sustained resources.    On December 4, Acting HHS Secretary Eric Hargan stated that the administration is looking forward to hearing from Congress about how they intend to address this. That means it is up to us to act. We urge you to advance a spending package that will provide substantial new resources for our families and our communities who have waited too long for help. Although the measures in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), the 21st Century Cures legislation and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 were important first steps, we must now build upon those efforts to ensure that states have adequate resources for first responders, enforcement, prevention efforts and treatment and recovery services. We must also provide more resources for research into addiction and pain, to gain a better understanding of the disease and develop innovative new treatments for substance misuse.    Opioid misuse is not a partisan issue. It is ravaging communities in every state and preys upon individuals and families regardless of party affiliation. We have worked together on this issue in the past, and with the clear statement from Acting Secretary Hargan that the administration is looking for Congress to lead the way, it is time for us to work together again. As the Senate considers pending supplemental and omnibus appropriation legislation, please make every effort to ensure that new, substantial and sustained funding for the opioid epidemic is included in any legislative package.    Thank you and we look forward to working with you to ensure that our communities receive the resources they need to effectively address this national crisis.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-statement-tax-bill-agreement", "REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON TAX BILL AGREEMENT", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement on the news that the House and Senate have reached a deal on historic tax reform legislation:\n\u201cThis agreement is welcome news for West Virginians as we go into the holiday season. Next week, we will be voting on historic tax cuts that will create more jobs and put more money in the pockets of West Virginia\u2019s families. I will carefully and thoughtfully read the final legislation to make sure it meets our goals of lowering taxes, creating jobs, and growing our economy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-discusses-need-to-get-tax-reform-across-the-finish-line", "VIDEO: Capito Discusses Need to Get Tax Reform Across the Finish Line", "2017-12-14", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Discusses Need to Get Tax Reform Across the Finish Line \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Highlights supportive statements from West Virginians\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today spoke on the Senate floor to deliver the latest in a series of speeches on the need to pass comprehensive pro-growth tax reformhighlighting supportive statements from West Virginia families, manufacturers and small businesses and illustrating how it will benefit the state.    Today, we are closer than ever before to getting comprehensive pro-growth tax reform across the finish line, Senator Capito said. Throughout the processwhenever Ive been back home in West VirginiaIve heard from constituents, friends, strangers who are really rooting for this effort; and theyre rooting for it because they understand what a difference it will make in their lives.  \r\n\r\n  For a video of Senator Capitos full remarks, click here or on the image above.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mckinley.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=2976", "West Virginia congressmen urge CHIP reauthorization in letter", "2017-12-13", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "West Virginia\u2019s congressional representatives are urging the Senate to pass legislation reauthorizing funding for the federal program that provides health care insurance for children and their families.\r\n\r\n\tReps. David McKinley, Alex Mooney and Evan Jenkins sent a letter Monday to Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, to pass a long-term deal regarding the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program.\r\n\r\n\tThe program provides insurance for families with incomes that are too high to qualify for Medicaid, and nine million children nationally are covered. More than 21,000 children in West Virginia have health insurance coverage through CHIP. The state adopted a state version in 1998.\r\n\r\n\t\u201cCentral Appalachia is largely rural, with access to care issues common in rural, remote areas. That makes CHIP even more imperative, as it encourages and promotes access to preventative and primary care for so many of our constituents,\u201d the congressmen wrote to Hatch, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance.\r\n\r\n\tTo read the rest of the article, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-urges-senate-reauthorize-chip", "REP. JENKINS URGES SENATE TO REAUTHORIZE CHIP", "2017-12-12", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) has led a letter from the West Virginia House delegation urging the Senate to pass a long-term CHIP reauthorization and give families peace of mind this holiday season.\nIn the letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Reps. Jenkins, David McKinley and Alex Mooney wrote of the importance of CHIP to West Virginia and Appalachia.\n\u201cCentral Appalachia is largely rural, with access to care issues common in rural, remote areas. That makes CHIP even more imperative, as it encourages and promotes access to preventative and primary care for so many of our constituents. As of fiscal year 2016, about 1 million children in Central Appalachian states were enrolled in CHIP,\u201d they wrote.\nWest Virginia officials have said the state has enough funding for CHIP through March 2018, but quick action remains imperative. The House passed a five-year reauthorization bill in November, but the full Senate has yet to take up a CHIP reauthorization bill.\n\u201cWe must find a solution to guarantee stability and to guarantee that no child goes without health insurance. We must come together and finish the work of Congress and reauthorize CHIP,\u201d they wrote.\nA PDF of the letter is available here.\nThe full text of the letter is below.\nDecember 11, 2017\nSenator Orrin Hatch  \n\tChairman  \n\tSenate Committee on Finance  \n\t104 Hart Office Building  \n\tWashington, D.C. 20510\nDear Chairman Hatch,\nAs members of the House of Representatives who represent Central Appalachia congressional districts, we ask you to quickly pass the long-term CHIP reauthorization to give our families and children peace of mind as we approach the holiday season. Your leadership on CHIP and ensuring that millions of children receive quality health insurance and care is truly commendable, and we stand ready to work with you to pass this bill and send it to the president.\nCentral Appalachia is largely rural, with access to care issues common in rural, remote areas. That makes CHIP even more imperative, as it encourages and promotes access to preventative and primary care for so many of our constituents. As of fiscal year 2016, about 1 million children in Central Appalachian states were enrolled in CHIP.[1]\nThe House of Representatives passed the CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act, H.R. 3922, which extended CHIP for five years. Additionally, Congress has voted to provide more time to reach a long-term solution by including a short-term funding fix for CHIP in the continuing resolution passed on December 7, 2017.\nAccording to a Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) issue brief, many of our states will exhaust CHIP funds early next year.[2] We must find a solution to guarantee stability and to guarantee that no child goes without health insurance. We must come together and finish the work of Congress and reauthorize CHIP.\nCHIP has been a lifeline to so many in Central Appalachia, and passing this legislation must remain a priority. In our state of West Virginia, reauthorizing CHIP will give certainty to so many going in to the new year. The work you have done on CHIP has helped many families in our region, and we are ready to work with you to finalize legislation and reauthorization this program.\nSincerely,\nEvan H. Jenkins\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nDavid B. McKinley, P.E.\nAlex Mooney\n\u00a0\n\t  \n\t\t[1] CMS Medicaid \u201cReports and Evaluations Annual Enrollment Reports: 2016 Number of Children Ever Enrolled Report\u201d\n\t\n\t\n\t\t[2] MACPAC \u201cFederal CHIP Funding: When Will States Exhaust Allotments?\u201d July 2017", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-final-mobile-office-hours-for-2017", "Capito Announces Final Mobile Office Hours for 2017", "2017-12-11", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.17\n\t\t\t Capito Announces Final Mobile Office Hours for 2017 \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Meet with Capito staff in Mineral, Hampshire and Pendleton counties\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nCHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced new mobile office dates throughout West Virginia for the remainder of this month. Members of Senator Capitos staff will be available to provide constituents one-on-one assistance with casework and other issues they may be experiencing with federal agencies. Appointments are not required but are encouraged and can be made by visiting Senator Capitos mobile office page on her website.\nMobile office schedule for December 14-20, 2017:\nThursday, December 14, 2017\nMineral County  11:30 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Frankfort District Senior Center  10 Summit Drive  Short Gap, WV 26753\nTuesday, December 19, 2017\nHampshire County  11:30 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Capon Valley View Senior Center  Christian Church Road  High View, WV 26711\nWednesday, December 20, 2017\nPendleton County  11:30 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Franklin Senior Center  231 Mill Road  Franklin, WV 26807\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-highlights-progress-in-connecting-west-virginia", "Capito Highlights Progress in Connecting West Virginia", "2017-12-11", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.17\n\t\t\t Capito Highlights Progress in Connecting West Virginia \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  In an op-ed for The State Journal, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) discusses her efforts to tackle the states broadband issue. Through her Capito Connect plan, she has made a significant difference in bringing new opportunities and investments for connectivity in the Mountain State.\nConnecting our communities wont happen overnight, but we are headed in the right direction. This goal is not only achievable, but it is critical for our state to compete and thrive today, and my Capito Connect plan is bringing us closer to bridging the digital divide, Senator Capito wrote.\nView the op-ed here and below.\nConnecting West Virginia: What Weve Done, Where Were GoingBy U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.)  The State JournalDecember 11, 2017\nNow more than ever, broadband is a powerful tool that is necessary for West Virginia students and businesses to be able to compete in a global digital economy.\nNot only does it allow us to browse the internet, and connect with friends and family, but it has the ability to create opportunities that lead to new jobs and higher wages, providing the momentum West Virginias economy needs.\nWhether youre a small business owner looking to develop your online presence and reach a broader audience, or a teacher who needs to send a homework assignment to students who missed a class, broadband access is critical in todays world. It keeps us connected, has the ability to break down barriers and lead to significant economic growth.\nUnfortunately, the digital divide between rural and urban America is growing, and West Virginia is at the bottom of the pack, ranking 48thin the nation for broadband accessibility. Additionally, about 30 percent of West Virginians lack access to broadband that meets the FCCs standards.\nThis is simply unacceptable and rural America deserves better.\nSince day one, connecting West Virginia has been a top priority of mine. And one way I have been working to accomplish this is through my Capito Connect plan, which I launched in 2015 to serve as a roadmap for bringing affordable, high-speed internet access to homes, businesses and classrooms in West Virginia.\nThe three-part plan accomplishes this goal by understanding the benefits of connectivity, fostering collaboration between government and the private sector and promoting economic growth through innovation.\nSince launching this initiative, I have taken several steps to increase connectivity and bridge the digital divide. Ive heard from thousands of West Virginians during a state-wide listening tour, hosted several roundtable discussions, released a guidebook to help our communities understand the federal resources available, and coached West Virginians on these opportunities.\nCapito Connect has also helped on a larger scale with projects like in 2015 when I announced a new provider for a cell tower in Paw Paw, or just a few months ago when I announced a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide access in Barbour, Randolph and Upshur Counties.\nCapito Connect is making a difference and connecting thousands of West Virginians.\nBut Capito Connect is not the only avenue I am using to bridge the digital divide.\nMy roles on both the Appropriations and Commerce Committees put me in a strong position to advocate for policies that will help West Virginia, especially when it comes to connectivity.\nAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, I have identified new funding for broadband and strengthened federal programs. Just this past summer, I helped advance two Appropriations bills out of committee that include resources to expand rural broadband access and support efforts like Capito Connect.\nDuring several Commerce Committee hearings, I questioned Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao on broadband deployment, and asked Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to work together with the U.S. Economic Development Administration to expand access in West Virginia.\nIve raised these same issues directly with President Trump and Vice President Pence on numerous occasions as early as last year when I sent a letter to the president encouraging the administration to include broadband deployment as a core component of any infrastructure package. After sending this letter, I was glad to see that the administrations proposal will include a provision to expand rural broadband.\nOn the policy side, I have introduced a number of legislative solutions, like theGigabit Opportunity (GO) Act, which helps rural and low-income communities access high-speed broadband that will ultimately lead to new investments to spur economic growth.\nGoing forward, I am committed to continuing efforts to assure broadband data is accurate. Doing so will allow us to prioritize communities that need it most. The West Virginia Broadband Enhancement Council, who I have partnered with on this issue, is already addressing data accuracy with their broadband mapping tool, which provides interactive access to the states broadband availability.\nWe have made a lot of progress, but there is still work to be done, and I am ready to build on this momentum.\nI look forward to continuing this important dialogue with the president and his administration, my colleagues on the Senate Broadband Caucus, and FCC officials, like Commissioner Ajit Pai who has visited West Virginia numerous times to witness the problem firsthand. By keeping the discussion going between various groups, we can bring more innovative solutions to the table.\nConnecting our communities wont happen overnight, but we are headed in the right direction. This goal is not only achievable, but it is critical for our state to compete and thrive today, and my Capito Connect plan is bringing us closer to bridging the digital divide.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-bipartisan-group-introduce-bill-to-extend-availability-of-new-alzheimers-stamp", "Capito, Bipartisan Group Introduce Bill to Extend Availability of New Alzheimers Stamp", "2017-12-08", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.08.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Bipartisan Group Introduce Bill to Extend Availability of New Alzheimers Stamp \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) yesterday introduced legislation with Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) to authorize a new U.S. Postal Service Alzheimers research stamp for an additional six years. Revenue from sales of the recently unveiled 60 cent postal stamp go to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support Alzheimers research.    The new stamp recently released by the U.S. Postal Service will be another source of funding for critically important Alzheimers research. By making that stamp available for an even longer period of time, we can further strengthen our efforts to fight Alzheimers, Senator Capito said. We have a long way to go in a fight that means so much to so many, and this bipartisan legislation is another step forward in finding a cure to this devastating disease.    The senators announced the legislation at a press conference alongside U.S. Representatives Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.)who introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives earlier this yearas well as Alzheimers researchers and advocates. The group spoke about the importance of research funding to help end Alzheimers, a progressive neurological disease that affects more than five million Americans.    At the press conference, Drs. John Lazo and Beth Sharlow, Alzheimers researchers at the University of Virginia, highlighted the importance of building upon recent developments in Alzheimers research. Additionally, advocates Kathy Siggins of Maryland, Caitlin Moran of Washington, D.C., and Tom Misciagna of Virginia shared their personal experiences with Alzheimers disease and why the new Alzheimers stamp is important to raise awareness about the disease and help enhance research funding.    For a copy of the legislation, click here.  \r\n\r\n  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-protects-funding-for-veterans-homeless-programs", "Capito Protects Funding for Veterans Homeless Programs", "2017-12-08", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.08.17\n\t\t\t Capito Protects Funding for Veterans Homeless Programs \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Following calls from U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) to reverse course, this week, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that it would not more forward with proposed cuts to programs that assist homeless veterans who are looking for housing and utilize additional services offered by the VA.\nLast month, Senator Capito and other members of the Senate Appropriations Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee wrote to VA Secretary David Shulkin urging him to not move forward with proposed cuts to critical veterans programs. Yesterday, Secretary Shulkin issued a statement saying there will be absolutely no change in the funding to support our homeless programs.\nSenator Capito issued this statement in response:\nA misguided proposal by the VA threatened critical funds to Veterans Homeless Programs.Along with my colleagues on the subcommittee who oversee the funding for the VA, I was able to ensure those who have earned our support are going to continue to receive it.For those who were willing to sacrifice for our freedoms, we should be doing more, not less.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=329", "McKinley Praises EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) questioned Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt during his first appearance before the House Energy and Commerce Committee. This hearing follows recent EPA hearings in Charleston, WV, which were the first since the Obama Administration took office in 2009. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) questioned Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt during his first appearance before the House Energy and Commerce Committee. This hearing follows recent EPA hearings in Charleston, WV, which were the first since the Obama Administration took office in 2009. For years I have invited the EPA to come to West Virginia and hear from us, as we have been bearing the burden from their harmful policies. They never accepted my invitations, and rural states like ours were left further behind. It's about time that bureaucrats in Washington took head of the damage their actions cause, said McKinley. Under Mr. Pruitt's leadership, the EPA has begun taking steps to undo the significant damage caused by Obama's regulatory overreach. Under his leadership, they've announced plans to withdraw the dangerous power plant regulations and moved to repeal the Waters of the U.S. rule. These actions will unleash America's energy potential, grow our economy and create jobs in rural states like West Virginia. I applaud Mr. Pruitt for his leadership, and look forward to seeing the EPA continue implementing its back-to-basics agenda, which focuses on greater collaboration with the states, McKinley added. Click hereto watch the hearing.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-alex-x-mooney-votes-protect-second-amendment", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney Votes to Protect the Second Amendment", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Alex Mooney", "M001195", "mooney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney Votes to Protect the Second Amendment\nToday, Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-2) voted in favor of H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act to ensure that law abiding gun owners can transport their weapons across state lines. Congressman Mooney is also a cosponsor of the bill and released the following statement:\n\u201cWhen I was elected to serve the people of the Second District of West Virginia, I made a promise to my constituents that I would protect their Second Amendment rights. Today\u2019s vote is a fulfilment of that promise.\nFor too long, law abiding gun owners have had their constitutional right to keep and bear arms hindered by government bureaucrats. This is a commonsense bill would implement concealed carry reciprocity in XX states.\nAs a gun owner, right-to-carry permit holder, and recipient of a lifetime A+ NRA rating, I am fighting every day to protect our Second Amendment rights from Democratic attempts to pass ideological gun-control policies that make law-abiding citizens less free and less safe. The Constitution is clear that \u201c\u2026the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.\u201d\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-bipartisan-senators-urge-extension-of-secure-rural-schools-program", "Capito, Bipartisan Senators Urge Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program", "2017-12-07", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Bipartisan Senators Urge Extension of Secure Rural Schools Program \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined a bipartisan group of senators in sending a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) urging them to include a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Program in any end-of-year legislation. SRS supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, emergency services and many other essential county services for more than 775 counties across the country.\nThe SRS program expired on September 30, 2015, and it has not been reauthorized for FY16 or beyond. Forest counties and schools received their last authorized SRS payment in 2016. Without SRS, existing revenue-sharing payments are not sufficient to support critical services these counties must provide.\nThe SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies, the senators wrote.\nIn the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-year legislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter, they continued.\nIn addition to Senator Capito, senators who signed the letter include: Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael F. Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Robert P. Casey, Jr. (D-Pa.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Kamala D. Harris (D-Calif.), Margaret Wood Hassan (D-N.H.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Dean Heller (R-Nev.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Joe Manchin III (D-W.Va.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Jeffery A. Merkley (D-Ore.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), James E. Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).\nClick here or read the full letter below:\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnell  Majority Leader, U.S. Senate  U.S. Capitol, S-230  Washington, D.C. 20510\nThe Honorable Chuck Schumer  Minority Leader, U.S. Senate  U.S. Capitol, S-221  Washington, D.C. 20510\nDear Majority Leader McConnell and Minority Leader Schumer:\nWe write to strongly urge the inclusion of at least a two-year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, which enjoys tremendous bipartisan support, in any end-of-the-year legislation.\nOn U.S. Forest Service land, the federal government has historically shared 25 percent of timber harvest revenues with counties to compensate for federal ownership. On certain land managed by the Department of Interior, the Bureau of Land Management shares 50 percent of the revenue from federal timber sales with counties. Due to declining timber harvests, a critical source of funding for rural counties, sometimes referred to as forest counties, has seen significant decreases, often decimating impacted county budgets.\nIn 2000, Congress passed SRS with broad bipartisan support as a fiscal solution to help fund essential services resulting from the reduced revenue-sharing receipts. Since then, SRS has been a critical lifeline for over 775 counties in over 40 states across the country by helping fund more than 4,400 schools, road maintenance, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations. However, SRS authorization lapsed last year and rural counties are now back to simply receiving the timber revenue-sharing receipts. These receipts are up to 80 percent less than what forest counties received under SRS.\nWe are now witnessing firsthand the hardships rural counties face as a result of SRS authorization lapsing. Without the certainty of SRS payments, schools, libraries, and jails are closing. Schools that remain open will see a reduction of teachers. Roads go unpaved and become unsafe. Mental and physical health services are scaled back or even ended. Fewer and fewer law enforcement officers are forced to patrol larger and larger areas.\nThe SRS program continues to be a critical safety-net for forest counties as we work to diversify rural economies, improve forest management and forest health, strengthen historic forest revenue sharing with local governments, and ensure that our forests provide a range of values such as clean water, jobs, and wood fiber for local economies.\nIn the interest of working together in a bipartisan way to support local rural communities, we ask that you include a reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools in any end-of-the-yearlegislation. We appreciate your assistance with this matter.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-student-loan-rehabilitation-bill-advances-in-the-senate", "Capito Student Loan Rehabilitation Bill Advances in the Senate", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.17\n\t\t\t Capito Student Loan Rehabilitation Bill Advances in the Senate \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  The U.S. Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee yesterday approved a provision based on bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) to help private student loan borrowers rehabilitate their credit after a default on their loans. Currently, federal student loan borrowers are able to remove a default from their credit report, yet private student loan borrowers are not. The provision was approved as part of a larger package and now heads for consideration by the entire Senate.    Students invest a lot in their education, and we need to do our part to help them maintain a secure financial footing as they pay off loans. Senator Peters and I have worked together on a solution to help make this possible. Like federal student loans, our bipartisan legislation will allow students with private loans opportunities to rehabilitate their credit following a default. I thank the Senate Banking Committee for advancing it out of the committee, Senator Capito said.    The provision, based on the Federal Adjustment in Reporting (FAIR) Student Credit Act, would create an equal opportunity for private student loan borrowers who have successfully completed a series of on-time payments to remove a default from their credit report. Under current law, federal loans may be rehabilitated one time, and borrowers can repair their credit by removing a default. However, private lenders currently do not have the ability to remove negative credit information on borrowers who participate in loan rehabilitation programs. Instead, private lenders may only request to delete information from a credit report if it is inaccurate.    While 90 percent of higher education loans are public and therefore eligible for loan rehabilitation, private student loans currently total $9.9 billion, and more than 850,000 private student loans are in default, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. A bad credit report from a default can negatively impact a borrowers ability to get a job, rent an apartment, buy a home or purchase a car for years.    Senators Capito and Peters previously introduced the FAIR Student Credit Act during the 114th Congress, and as members of the U.S. House of Representatives during the 113th Congress.  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-discusses-importance-of-chip-tax-reform-on-senate-floor", "VIDEO: Capito Discusses Importance of CHIP, Tax Reform on Senate Floor", "2017-12-06", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Discusses Importance of CHIP, Tax Reform on Senate Floor \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) spoke today on the Senate floor to highlight two important legislative priorities: reauthorizing the State Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and passing pro-growth tax reform. Later in the day, the Senate voted 51-47 to go to conference with the U.S. House of Representatives on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.On CHIP, Senator Capito said: CHIP was one of the first programs that I became a strong champion for. Thats because I understand how critical it was then for families in West Virginia and what it is now  Thousands of West Virginia families and children who rely on this program need to know that its going to be there.    On tax reform, she continued: Im not OK with standing still because if youre standing still, youre losing. We need to move this economy forward. We need to make it work for everybody. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act represents a new direction for Americaone that provides hope, prosperity and a chance to really turn things around for a lot of people.   \r\n\r\n  For a video of Senator Capitos full remarks, click here or on the image above.\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=280", "McKinley Hosts Morgantown Forum on Opioid Epidemic in Rural America", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Last night, Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) hosted a public forum on efforts to combat the opioid epidemic in Morgantown. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing in October with the federal agencies charged with overseeing efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Last night's forum recreated this discussion for constituents in the First District. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Last night, Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) hosted a public forum on efforts to combat the opioid epidemic in Morgantown. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing in October with the federal agencies charged with overseeing efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Last night's forum recreated this discussion for constituents in the First District. West Virginia is the epicenter of the opioid crisis sweeping the nation. This epidemic is ravaging rural states like ours, which is why we organized this forum. Unfortunately, due to a last-minute change in schedule, we had votes in the House to move towards tax reform, and I was unable to be there in person. My staff gathered constituent feedback so that we can take action in Washington, said McKinley. The key takeaways from the forum are: rural communities don't have the resources to apply for the federal grants available to larger cities; there is a shortage in treatment options and space at treatment facilities for those affected by opioid addiction; and there needs to be better training for law enforcement on how to handle overdoses and get the addict the necessary treatment. It's essential that Congress finds solutions to these issues so that rural states, like West Virginia, are able to address this growing epidemic, McKinley said. Thank you to the panelists and attendees who showed up to listen and participate. It's unfortunate that a vocal minority chose to be disruptive at the event. This is a serious issue that is killing West Virginia's citizens at a higher rate than any other state in the nation. Public forums like these aren't a time for political grandstanding. This is a serious problem that requires serious solutions. This can't be achieved without the ability to have a civil discussion, added McKinley. The panel for the forum included leaders from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the West Virginia Office of Drug Control Policy, West Virginia University and local treatment providers from the First District. Background  The House Committee on Energy and Commerce has an ongoing investigating into the extreme level of opioid pill dumping in West Virginia. One pharmacy in Kermit, a town with a population of 392, received nine million opioid pills in a span of two years. In the past six years, 780 million opioid pills have been shipped to West Virginia, which amounts to 433 pills for every man, woman and child in the state. Rep. McKinley joined Energy and Commerce Committee leadership on two letters in May and October asking the DEA and drug distributors for information on these shipments. The DEA hasn't sent the requested information.  McKinley has participated in four previous Energy and Commerce, Oversight and Investigations subcommittee hearings on the problem of prescription drugs and opioid abuse in the 114th Congress. He has also hosted 15 drug abuse roundtables throughout West Virginia's First District.  In March, the House passed H.R. 1628, the American Health Care Act that would repeal and replace Obamacare. Contained in the legislation was a $15 billion provision to fund state efforts at substance abuse and mental health treatment.  The House passed S. 524, the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Reduction Act (CARA), legislation providing federal resources to states and local law enforcement agencies to better fight the drug abuse and opioid addiction epidemic. The bill was signed into law in July 2016 and included 4 McKinley provisions: o A rural voice for the new inter-agency task force that will review, modify, and update practices for pain management and prescribing pain medication o A directive to the task force that identifies and researches better alternatives to non-opioid forms of pain management o Requires the Attorney General to consider a community's prevalence of opioid abuse and related deaths when awarding grants to states to combat opioid epidemic o Takes a step towards strengthening real time data reporting on substance abuse at the local, state, and federal levels (for veterans only)  The House passed H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act, legislation that included an additional $970 million over a two-year period for opioid prevention and treatment programs. This funding is awarded to states based on number of opioid overdose death and number of patients awaiting opioid abuse disorder treatment. This bill was signed into law in December 2016.  McKinley authored the Congressional letter to House appropriators in support of at least $250 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. During the FY18 appropriations the House passed H. Amdt. 439, which increased HIDTA funding by $6 million. The HIDTA program works to fight the drug epidemic which is sweeping not only the U.S., but in particular West Virginia. To view McKinley's questions in the hearing, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-calls-for-action-on-chip", "Capito Calls for Action on CHIP", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.05.17\n\t\t\t Capito Calls for Action on CHIP \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  In a letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) is urging swift action to extend funding for the State Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) before the end of the year.\nIn the letter, Senator Capito outlines her long-standing support for the CHIP program, including to help implement the program in West Virginia when she was a state legislator. Since then, Senator Capito has consistently voted to fund and expand the CHIP program. The Senate Finance Committee advanced a five-year CHIP funding extension in October.\nThroughout my time serving the state of West Virginia, I have supported CHIP.In the state legislature, I served on the committee charged with implementing the CHIP program in West Virginia.As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and as a United States Senator, I have voted for bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and expand the CHIP program, said Senator Capito in the letter. The CHIP program remains essential for working families in West Virginia and across the nation.\nClickhereor read the full letter below:\nThe Honorable Orrin Hatch  Chairman, Senate Finance Committee  219 Dirksen Senate Office Building  Washington, DC 20510\nDear Chairman Hatch,\nI applaud the bipartisan work being done by the Finance Committee to reauthorize the State Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP).Under your leadership, the program began and over the years has provided working families across the nation health insurance coverage options they would not have otherwise.I share your passion for this program and will continue to work with the Committee and Senate Leadership to move the reauthorization forward as soon as possible.\nThroughout my time serving the state of West Virginia, I have supported CHIP.In the state legislature, I served on the committee charged with implementing the CHIP program in West Virginia.As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and as a United States Senator, I have voted for bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and expand the CHIP program.\nAs you know, each year CHIP benefits approximately 9 million children and 370,000 pregnant women throughout the country, including approximately 22,000 children or 14,000 families in West Virginia.These families earn too much to be eligible for Medicaid, but often have no other coverage options.According to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission, almost 85 percent of these children lived in households with one parent working at least 50 weeks of the past year.\nThe CHIP program remains essential for working families in West Virginia and across the nation.Thank you for all you are doing, and all you have done, to ensure its continuation.I look forward to working together to reauthorize the CHIP program as soon as possible.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-funding-to-help-bridge-workforce-skills-gap", "Capito, Manchin Announce Funding to Help Bridge Workforce Skills Gap", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.05.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Announce Funding to Help Bridge Workforce Skills Gap \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced $179,022 for West Virginia Public Broadcasting from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Funding comes through CPBs American Graduate program, which is focused on supporting community-based solutions to educate youth and improve high-school graduation rates.    The 21st century economy requires a skilled labor force that is able to compete on a global scale, Senator Capito said. It is critical that young West Virginians, as well as their parents and teachers, realize the enormous opportunities a STEM education can provide. This funding allows West Virginia Public Broadcasting to help prepare our children and our state for the future.    We turn to our public broadcasters for our news and entertainment, and Im excited to now see the Corporation for Public Broadcasting invest in the workers of West Virginia. The American Graduates Initiative will work to improve the skillsets of West Virginians in every corner of the state, and I look forward to the CPBs proven track record of success implemented throughout all of our communities, Senator Manchin said.\"There's a big need to educate students and parents about STEM jobs that require more than a high school diploma, but less than a college degree,\" said Scott Finn, CEO of West Virginia Public Broadcasting. \"This American Graduate grant allows WVPB to work with educators and employers to make sure they hear that message.\"  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-confirm-kirstjen-nielsen-for-dhs-secretary", "Capito Votes to Confirm Kirstjen Nielsen for DHS Secretary", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.05.17\n\t\t\t Capito Votes to Confirm Kirstjen Nielsen for DHS Secretary \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) issued this statement after voting to confirm Kirstjen Nielsen as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security:\nAs our nation faces evolving threats at home and abroad, Kirstjen Nielson brings solid credentials to the department at a critical time. I look forward to working with her to keep our homeland secure, fight terrorism and address disaster preparedness.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-continues-oversight-of-efforts-to-combat-opioid-crisis", "VIDEO: Capito Continues Oversight of Efforts to Combat Opioid Crisis", "2017-12-05", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.05.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Continues Oversight of Efforts to Combat Opioid Crisis \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.)a member of the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommitteetoday participated in an oversight hearing examining efforts to fight the opioid epidemic. During the hearing, Senator Capito questioned government officials responsible for various federal drug programs and highlighted legislation she introduced last month to prioritize funding for states hardest hit by the drug crisis.    You can look for us to be very aggressive, Senator Capito said. If we dont stop this epidemic in West Virginia and New Hampshire then the numbers are going to go up proportionally in all of these states.    For a video of Senator Capitos questions at todays hearing, click here or on the image below.  \r\n\r\n  More information on the hearing, witness testimony and an archived webcast are available here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-mobile-offices-in-two-west-virginia-counties", "Capito Announces Mobile Offices in Two West Virginia Counties", "2017-12-04", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.04.17\n\t\t\t Capito Announces Mobile Offices in Two West Virginia Counties \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Meet with Capito staff in Hardy and Morgan counties\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nCHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced new mobile office dates throughout West Virginia for the upcoming week. Members of Senator Capitos staff will be available to provide constituents one-on-one assistance with casework and other issues they may be experiencing with federal agencies. Appointments are not required but are encouraged and can be made by visiting Senator Capitos mobile office page on her website.\nMobile office schedule for December 5-7, 2017:\nTuesday, December 5, 2017\nHardy County  11:30 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Moorefield Senior Center  409 Spring Ave.  Moorefield, WV 26836\nThursday, December 7, 2017\nMorgan County  11:30 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Paw Paw Senior Center  783 Winchester St.  Paw Paw, WV 25434\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-thanks-senate-passing-tax-cuts-jobs-act", "REP. JENKINS THANKS SENATE FOR PASSING TAX CUTS & JOBS ACT", "2017-12-02", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today after the U.S. Senate passed the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act:\n\u201cThe Senate\u2019s vote is another step toward tax cuts, tax reform and tax simplification that will create jobs and put more money back in West Virginians\u2019 pockets. This bill is not the final product, and we will continue to make changes to strengthen the final legislation. I commend the Senate for acting quickly to pass this important legislation and thank Senator Capito for standing up for West Virginia\u2019s middle-class families and small businesses.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-supports-senate-passage-of-pro-growth-tax-reform", "Capito Supports Senate Passage of Pro-Growth Tax Reform", "2017-12-02", "2017", "2017-12", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.02.17\n\t\t\t Capito Supports Senate Passage of Pro-Growth Tax Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito(R-W.Va.)applauded the Senates passage of comprehensive, pro-growth tax reform legislation.TheTax Cuts and Jobs Acttakes a broad step forward to bring tax relief to West Virginia families, workers and businesses.\nToday we had an opportunity to vote for the kind of pro-growth reform that will provide relief to so many and make a real difference in the lives of working families across the country. These reforms will allow middle-income individuals to keep more of the money theyve worked so hard for. They will help our small businesses grow and enable them to create more jobs and increase wages for their employees. And they will give our economy the boost it so desperately needs. I cant fathom why anyone would not vote in support of the kind of relief and the kind of help this tax bill provides, saidSenator Capito.\nI was proud to cast my vote for this legislationa bill that I truly believe will help improve the lives of so many West Virginians and Americans. This was a big moment in our efforts to deliver the tax reform solutions Americans need, and I will continue working to make sure West Virginians come out ahead as we work with the House on a final agreement.\nSenator Capito also discussed tax reform in her Weekly Address to West Virginians. View the video here.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-committee-passes-rep-jenkins-social-cost-carbon-bill", "HOUSE COMMITTEE PASSES REP. JENKINS SOCIAL COST OF CARBON BILL", "2017-11-30", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The House Natural Resources Committee on Thursday passed legislation introduced by U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) to prohibit federal agencies from using flawed metrics when writing new regulations.\nH.R. 3117, the Transparency and Honesty in Energy Regulations Act (THERA), would prohibit the federal government from using the flawed social cost of carbon and social cost of methane metrics in the rulemaking process.\n\u201cThe Obama administration used biased estimates like the social cost of carbon to push through its anti-coal regulations. These models hide the true economic costs of the EPA\u2019s energy and environmental rules, which have eliminated jobs in West Virginia and raised the price of electricity for families. We are now one step closer to ensuring that no future administration can hide behind flawed formulas to justify their job-killing regulations and bring more transparency to the rulemaking process,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.\nA companion bill is sponsored in the Senate by Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla.\nThe bill would bar the use of the social cost of carbon, methane and nitrous oxide in energy and environment rules. This legislation would provide certainty and build upon a recent Trump executive order that canceled the government\u2019s use of these metrics. It would also ensure that the regulatory process adheres to strict cost-benefit guidelines and prohibit the use of such metrics unless subsequently authorized by Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=159", "House Passes McKinley Bill to Spur Economic Development", "2017-11-30", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3017, the Brownfields Enhancement Economic Redevelopment and Reauthorization Act of 2017, authored by Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1). This legislation reauthorizes and improves the Brownfields Program, which is a program designed to empower states, communities, and other stakeholders in economic redevelopment to work together in a timely manner to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. This legislation updates the program for the first time since 2006.  \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3017, the Brownfields Enhancement Economic Redevelopment and Reauthorization Act of 2017, authored by Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1). This legislation reauthorizes and improves the Brownfields Program, which is a program designed to empower states, communities, and other stakeholders in economic redevelopment to work together in a timely manner to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. This legislation updates the program for the first time since 2006.  Abandoned industrial sites are an eyesore to the community and are detrimental to economic development. For those sites that qualify under this program, this bill will speed up our ability to mitigate the environmental hazards present. Across the Northern Panhandle and the rest of West Virginia we have hundreds of these sites, and the Brownfields Program has been an important tool to turn these abandoned eyesores into economic opportunity, said McKinley. The strength of our nation is found in every community that continues to push toward a better tomorrow. The Brownfields bill will empower communities to clean up abandoned property and invest in new opportunities, said House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy. Communities across the country have already used this program successfully and this authorization will increase local tax bases and allow previously unused areas to gain a second life. I applaud David for his work on this bill. Background Brownfield sites are properties whose redevelopment or reuse is complicated by the potential presence of a hazardous substance, contaminant or pollutant. Since it was established in 1995, the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Brownfields Program has changed the way developers approach and manage the redevelopment of these properties. The EPA uses grants authorized in the program to empower states, communities and developers to safely assess, clean up and repurpose these brownfield sites. This reauthorization is critical to ensure that full funding for the program continues. In addition to reauthorizing the Brownfields Program, this legislation makes some key improvements that will enable more sites to be redeveloped. This bipartisan bill: o Makes important clarificationsrelated to CERCLA liability & petroleum sites. o Expands eligibilityfor non-profit organizations and eligible entities that owned these properties prior to the original enactment of the Brownfields Program so that they may receive brownfields grant funding. o Increases the limit for remediation grantsfrom $200,000 to $500,000. o Creates multipurpose grants,which will provide flexibility to communities trying to cleanup multiple brownfields sites within an area in the community. o Makes it easier for small, rural, or disadvantaged communities and tribes to participate in the brownfields program.  Earlier this year, Pietro Fiorentini, a supplier to the natural gas industry, broke ground on a new manufacturing facility located on a site in Weirton that was cleaned up through the Brownfields Program. This project has created jobs and spurred economic activity in the area. This is just one example of the investment that can be created by reclaiming these sites. Brownfield projects also attract private investment into small and rural towns nationwide. The Business Development Corporation (BDC) in West Virginia has been the beneficiary of $2.5 million in EPA Brownfield Grants. They have successfully leveraged that into $70 million in private funding to develop brownfield properties.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-alex-x-mooney-names-chad-story-district-director", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney Names Chad Story as District Director", "2017-11-29", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Alex Mooney", "M001195", "mooney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney Names Chad Story as District Director\nCongressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-2) has announced a new addition to his senior staff.\u00a0 Chad Story has been named District Director and will based out of the Congressman\u2019s Charleston district office. He will replace Fred Joseph who is retiring at the end of November.\u00a0\nA lifelong West Virginian,\u00a0Mr. Story was born and raised in Logan County. \u00a0Growing up in the southern coalfields, his grandfather and uncles were all coal miners. \u00a0He graduated from Man High School and attended Southern West Virginia Community & Technical College where he served as president of the student body.\u00a0He is a graduate of West Virginia State University in Institute, West Virginia in 2012 with a degree in history. He is pursuing a degree in Educational Leadership at American Public University Systems in Charles Town, West Virginia.\u00a0\u00a0\nDevoted to serving others, Chad Story has been a case manager for adults and children with developmental disabilities and a special education teacher.\u00a0 Most recently, he has served as a district staffer for Congressman Evan Jenkins (WV-3) where he focused on economic development, federal grants and constituent services for southern West Virginia.\u00a0\u00a0\n\u201cChad\u2019s extensive district operation experience and his deep West Virginia roots makes him a great choice to lead my district team. Chad is devoted to our state and is committed to providing quality constituent services to the Second Congressional District,\u201d said Rep. Mooney.\n\u201cI am excited for this new experience and to be leading a great district team.\u00a0 Our goal is very simple and that is to provide the best constituents services as possible to the people of the Second District,\u201d Story said.\u00a0 \u201cWest Virginia is my home and I want to do my part to see it prosper and grow.\u00a0 I am honored that Congressman Mooney has given me this opportunity to serve.\u201d\nStory serves on the Board of Directors for Facing Hunger Food Bank and the Logan County Child Advocacy Center; he is vice president of the Man Lions Club and a member of the Iaeger Masonic Lodge #148.\u00a0 He lives in Charleston, West Virginia.\u00a0\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-and-manchin-urge-department-of-state-to-keep-training-facility-at-summit-point-raceway-open", "Capito and Manchin Urge Department of State to Keep Training Facility at Summit Point Raceway Open", "2017-11-29", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.17\n\t\t\t Capito and Manchin Urge Department of State to Keep Training Facility at Summit Point Raceway Open \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) sent a letter to U.S Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, urging that the State Departmentkeeps the Summit Point Raceway training facility open, without consolidating its functions within the Foreign Affairs Security Training Center (FASTC).\nThe Senators said in part: We understand that the State Department plans to close the Summit Point training site and consolidate its functions within the Foreign Affairs Security Training Center (FASTC) currently under construction at Fort Picket in Virginia. While we are glad that such an important program will continue, current plans to consolidate this training in one location may not provide sufficient capacity to meet our future training needs. If the site at Fort Pickett is not able to accommodate all of the requisite training operations, no viable alternative would be available and a temporary or prolonged suspension of training operations would be inevitable.That is unacceptable. The West Virginia facility can and should remain open to prepare our public servants traveling abroad for any kind of threat they may encounter.\nClick here or read the full letter below:\nDear Secretary Tillerson:\nWe write to you to ask for your support in protecting the training facility at the Summit Point Raceway in Summit Point, West Virginia.\nAs you know, Summit Point is currently the site of the Foreign Affairs Counter Threat (FACT) training course which is an essential program provided to diplomatic personnel and their families to prepare them to safely live and work overseas.\nWe understand that the State Department plans to close the Summit Point training site and consolidate its functions within the Foreign Affairs Security Training Center (FASTC) currently under construction at Fort Picket in Virginia. While we are glad that such an important program will continue, current plans to consolidate this training in one location may not provide sufficient capacity to meet our future training needs. If the site at Fort Pickett is not able to accommodate all of the requisite training operations, no viable alternative would be available and a temporary or prolonged suspension of training operations would be inevitable. That is unacceptable. The West Virginia facility can and should remain open to prepare our public servants traveling abroad for any kind of threat they may encounter.\nAs members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, we have been strong advocates of the continued funding of programs like the one at Summit Point because of the important work they do to prepare our diplomatic personnel. Summit Point has a proven track record of success for over three decades, and the unparalleled training provided by this facility is vital to keeping Americans safe. We strongly encourage you to maintain the site as an operational alternative training ground to ensure that this program will always be accessible to our men and women who depend on it.\nWe also invite you to tour the training facility at Summit Point so that you can see for yourself just how well the site runs and manages their FACT training courses and why it should remain operational.\nThank you for your time and attention on this important matter. We urge you to strongly consider this request and look forward to working with you to find a solution that serves our country and honors the brave men and women who serve our country overseas.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-miner-death-in-boone-county", "Capito Statement on Miner Death in Boone County", "2017-11-29", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.17\n\t\t\t Capito Statement on Miner Death in Boone County \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released the following statement regarding the death of coal miner Zachary Grant Harris in Boone County:\nI am saddened and sorry to learn about Zacharys death and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Coal mining is a proud West Virginia tradition, but it is not without risks, and creating a safe environment for our miners is critical.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-encourages-senate-passage-of-tax-reform-legislation", "VIDEO: Capito Encourages Senate Passage of Tax Reform Legislation", "2017-11-29", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Encourages Senate Passage of Tax Reform Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) spoke today on the Senate floor to urge her colleagues to vote for comprehensive pro-growth tax reform, emphasizing how the Senate bill will help working West Virginians and small businesses across the state.\nThis bill will power economic growth and opportunity for American workers. It will lead to increased wages. It will help our small businesses compete, thrive and expand. And it will provide much needed tax relief for middle-class families in West Virginia and across the country, Senator Capito said.\nWe can accept the slow economic growth that has occurred over the past decade, or we can take big and bold action, she continued. To my colleagues: If you want to help the middle class benefit from tax cuts, higher wages and more job opportunities, then you should vote for this bill. If you want America to become more competitive in the global economy, then you should vote for this bill. If you want small businesses to expand and thrive, then you should vote for this bill.\r\n\r\nFor a video of Senator Capitos full remarks, click here or on the image above.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-testimony-today-s-epa-hearing-charleston", "REP. JENKINS TESTIMONY AT TODAYS EPA HEARING IN CHARLESTON", "2017-11-28", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) submitted testimony for the record at today\u2019s Environmental Protection Agency public hearing in Charleston on the proposed repeal of the Clean Power Plan.\n\u201cI have spoken with the president and the administration about the importance of West Virginia\u2019s coal miners and how the Clean Power Plan, as well as many of the other Obama administration\u2019s regulations, were strangling the economy. At every step, I have fought against burdensome regulations, worked with President Trump, and stood with West Virginia\u2019s coal miners,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.\nHe also said that the House Natural Resources Committee will be marking up his bill on Wednesday, the Transparency and Honesty in Energy Regulations Act.\n\u201cI introduced this bill, which would prohibit the use of social cost of greenhouse gases in the federal rulemaking process unless the agencies adhere to OMB guidance. This controversial metric was abused by the former administration to wage their war on coal. The Clean Power Plan was justified largely by using the social cost of carbon,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.\nRep. Jenkins was unable to attend in person due to votes in Washington today, but his district director, Michael Chirico, read the testimony on his behalf.\nThe congressman\u2019s testimony as prepared for the record is below:\n\u201cI am giving this testimony on behalf of Congressman Evan Jenkins, who couldn\u2019t be here because he is in D.C. for votes scheduled for today.\n\u201cWest Virginia\u2019s future is bright, the economy is growing at a fast pace and the energy regulations that have crippled our state are being repealed. The Clean Power Plan repeal will continue to fuel a resurgence of West Virginia\u2019s economy, which has been growing at 3 percent in 2017, the second fastest in the United States.\n\u201cThe eight years before President Trump took office, the war on coal decimated an entire industry, a way of life in West Virginia. Ten thousand coal jobs were lost here over the last five years because of the war on coal. But this is changing thanks to President Trump and Administrator Pruitt.\n\u201cI proudly stand with the Trump administration and Administrator Pruitt in repealing and eliminating burdensome and job-killing regulations.\n\u201cI fully support the repeal of the Clean Power Plan and have been working to eliminate this regulation for years. The Clean Power Plan was one of the key regulations in Obama\u2019s war on coal. It would have caused thousands of men and women to lose their good paying jobs and would have caused double-digit increases in electricity costs. This is unacceptable for a state that relies on the low-cost energy that coal provides.\n\u201cSince the day I took office, I fought back against the Obama administration\u2019s overreaching energy policies. I joined with 34 senators and 171 representatives to send an amicus brief that supported overturning the Clean Power Plan on the grounds that the EPA acted illegally in moving the regulation.\n\u201cAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, I secured policy riders that halted job-killing coal regulations. I ensured that Congress rejected the Obama administration\u2019s request for increased funding for more EPA regulators and led the charge to cut the EPA\u2019s budget by hundreds of millions of dollars.\n\u201cI was also proud to sponsor and cosponsor a number of bills that worked to stop the war on coal. I sponsored legislation which became law that blocked the implementation of the Obama stream buffer zone rule, saving one-third of all coal jobs. I also cosponsored and voted on legislation that would have stopped the Clean Power Plan from going forward.\n\u201cThis week the House Natural Resources Committee will be marking up the Transparency and Honesty in Energy Regulations Act. I introduced this bill, which would prohibit the use of social cost of greenhouse gases in the federal rulemaking process unless the agencies adhere to OMB guidance. This controversial metric was abused by the former administration to wage their war on coal. The Clean Power Plan was justified largely by using the social cost of carbon.\n\u201cThis government overreach is over. I have spoken with the president and the administration about the importance of West Virginia\u2019s coal miners and how the Clean Power Plan, as well as many of the other Obama administration\u2019s regulations, were strangling the economy. At every step, I have fought against burdensome regulations, worked with President Trump, and stood with West Virginia\u2019s coal miners.\n\u201cI fully support a speedy repeal of the Clean Power Plan, giving West Virginia hope for a future of economic prosperity.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-alex-x-mooney-wv-02-submits-statement-opposing-clean-power", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-02) Submits Statement Opposing Clean Power Plan", "2017-11-28", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Alex Mooney", "M001195", "mooney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-02) Submits Statement Opposing Clean Power Plan \nCharleston, WV \u2013 Congressman Alex Mooney (WV-02) submitted the following testimony at the Environmental Protection Agency public hearing in Charleston regarding the Clean Power Plan:\n\u201cI am pleased to submit my testimony to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding my support for the agency\u2019s proposed repeal of the so-called Clean Power Plan rule. When the EPA finalized these rules in 2015, they did irreparable damage to West Virginia\u2019s economy. Due to the pending plan, power plants that were once the economic driver of communities across our great state have been shuttered. Proposed plants that were to expand the energy infrastructure throughout the Appalachian Region never came to fruition.\nFor nearly three years, West Virginian workers have had a cloud of uncertainty hanging over their heads due to the pending implementation of the Obama Administration\u2019s Clean Power Plan.\u00a0 Fortunately, our government\u2019s system of checks and balances prevented the plan from reaching fruition.\nThe U.S. Supreme Court issued a stay on the enforcement of this proposed regulation in 2016 after 27 states (including West Virginia), 24 trade associations, 37 rural electric co-ops and three labor unions sued the EPA. \u00a0Their lawsuit emphasized a range of legal and technical concerns, while also demonstrating the regulation went further than the law allowed. This is yet again another Obama era overreach that put the American economy at a disadvantage and destroyed jobs.\nI want to take this opportunity to thank EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt and the EPA Regional Offices for conducting these public hearings.\u00a0 This is the proper procedure to review this regulation and, ultimately, to repeal it. I also want to thank President Trump for signing the Energy Independence Executive Order back in March, triggering the review of the Clean Power Plan and leading to this much-needed and transparent public hearing process.\u00a0 This is how government should operate and I commend the EPA for coming to my Congressional District to hear what West Virginians have to say about this crippling regulation.\n\u00a0Former President Obama's plan is flawed and the regulation has done harm to the American economy and to the American worker.\u00a0 It is time to rid our economy of this uncertainty and pursue an energy policy that is pro-worker, allows the United States to be a leader in energy production and unlocks American ingenuity.\u201d\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-and-manchin-announce-more-than-92-million-for-rural-development-in-west-virginia", "Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $9.2 Million for Rural Development in West Virginia", "2017-11-28", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.28.17\n\t\t\t Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $9.2 Million for Rural Development in West Virginia \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) announced $9,295,505 - $591,505 in grant funding and $8,704,000 in approved loans - from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development program for rural development projects in four West Virginia communities.\nAccess to quality public services and economic opportunity are essential for West Virginias rural communities to thrive. This funding will assist local leaders in their efforts to grow our economy, and improve the quality of life for West Virginians. I will continue to advocate for programs like these that invest in our states future, said Senator Capito.\nRural development projects provide economic opportunities that are felt across very corner of West Virginia, said Senator Manchin. This funding will be used to purchase a new police vehicle in Lewis County, construct a new water treatment plant in McMechen, conduct a feasibility study in Mingo County and improve the water and waste disposal system in Wyoming County.\nIndividual awards listed below:\r\n \r\n$6,650,000 to the City of McMechen - Rural Development funds will be used to construct a new water treatment plant, rehabilitate and install security for the ground wells, complete potable water line replacements, and rehabilitate two water storage tanks. The City of McMechen owns and operates a Class I ground water only public water system in Marshall County, West Virginia. It is located adjacent to the Ohio River, south of Wheeling, WV off WV Route 2. The source of raw water is pumped from four ground wells. The system consists of a water treatment plan, two steel finished potable water storage tanks, and a distribution system with a total of 0.6 M gallon storage capacity. The distribution system consists of approximately 5.79 miles of water main ranging from 4\" to 12\" diameter steel pipe. The City serves approximately 956 residential and commercial customers and 1 resale user.\r\n \r\n \r\n$4,900 to the Lewis County Commission - Rural Development funds will be used to purchase a new AWD Ford Police Interceptor sedan through the WV State bid procurement process, with the installation of all necessary emergency response police equipment.\r\n \r\n \r\n$50,605 to the Mingo County Redevelopment Authority - Rural Development funds will be used to conduct a study of the feasibility of a Wood Products Industrial Park to be located in Mingo County West Virginia. The study will investigate opportunities in marketing value added and end-use manufacture of wood products of the West Virginia timber industry.\r\n \r\n \r\n$2,590,000 to the Center Public Service District - Rural Development funds will be used to replace approximately 1,250' of 15\" pipe, 4,812' of 12\" pipe, and 38 existing manholes in the Sycamore Avenue and Rock Castle Creek areas. The project will consist of installing a rotary fan press, modifying the existing screen mechanism, and installing a new NPW system. These improvements will significantly decrease I&I, customer complaints, and environmental concerns. No customers will be added with this project.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-nominates-31-west-virginians-to-us-service-academies", "Capito Nominates 31 West Virginians to U.S. Service Academies", "2017-11-28", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.28.17\n\t\t\t Capito Nominates 31 West Virginians to U.S. Service Academies \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) announced U.S. Service Academy nominations for 31 qualified high school seniors from 18 counties in West Virginia. Nominees were selected by a board chosen by Senator Capito that reviewed each application, interviewed candidates and made recommendations.\nNominating young men and women to our nations prestigious service academies is one of the most important responsibilities I have as a United States Senator, said Senator Capito. All of these young men and women are smart, talented and driven, and have worked extremely hard to get to this point. Attending these service academies provides more than just an education. It will allow these students to hone their leadership skills and prepare to serve our country, and I am honored to support them throughout this process.\nService Academy Nominees are listed below:\nUnited States Air Force Academy\nStephanie Anne Adkison-Sacra  Harrison County\nLiam Patrick Bailey  Putnam County\nJocelynn M. Cooper  Boone County\nAddison Michael DeViese  Jackson County\nThomas Daniel Ingram  Fayette County\nMakayla Elizabeth Miles  Jefferson County\nJohn Rocky Pallotta  Monongalia County\nAndrew Jacob Panzarella  Jefferson County\nKeith Michael Skaggs (also nominated to the U.S. Military Academy)Taylor County\nBryce Alexander Turney  Jefferson County\nZachary Wade Tysor  Randolph County\nCameron Warren Zobrist  Greenbrier County\nUnited States Military Academy\nDerek Edward Dearth  Ohio County\nHolly Elizabeth Edwards  Cabell County\nAaron C. Flowers  Monongalia County\nEthan Paul Gottlieb (also nominated to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy)Jefferson County\nRebecca Marie Kocsis  Harrison County\nMatthew Alexander Martin  Kanawha County\nMassimo Dee Menguito  Harrison County\nCameron Lee Patterson  Putnam County\nVaughn Shanen Thacker  Mercer County\nUnited States Naval Academy\nJackson Andrew Crouse  Jefferson County\nMichael Caleb Hall  Ohio County\nJames Alexander Inman  Berkeley County\nJosephine Renee Laing  Ohio County\nSean Daniel Martineau  Jefferson County\nKatie Marie Payne  Clay County\nJack Thomas Stryker  Ohio County\nTrey Nicholas Toland  Marion County\nGeorge Andrew Triplett  Randolph County\nSada Dakota Wright  Gilmer County\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-west-virginians-welcome-epa-decision-to-hold-public-hearing-in-charleston", "Capito: West Virginians Welcome EPA Decision to Hold Public Hearing in Charleston", "2017-11-28", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.28.17\n\t\t\t Capito: West Virginians Welcome EPA Decision to Hold Public Hearing in Charleston \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today and tomorrow, the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting a public hearing in Charleston to hear directly from West Virginians. In an op-ed for the Daily Mail Opinion Page of the Charleston Gazette-Mail, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) applauded the EPAs decision to visit West Virginia.\nWest Virginians expect federal agencies to follow the law. We want leaders to consider the impact of regulations on jobs and the economy. And, importantly, officials must listen to those Americans who will be most impacted by their decisions. Its clear that this administration and EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt are changing course, Senator Capito wrote. The Trump administration is bringing the change to regulatory policy that West Virginians voted for. I welcome the new EPA to Charleston and will continue working with President Trump to keep West Virginia a leading energy producer for generations to come.\nIn 2015, Senator Capito called on the Obama Administration to visit West Virginia as it developed the Clean Power Plan, but EPA Air Chief Janet McCabe declined saying that EPA only held public events where it was comfortable.\nView the op-ed here and below.\nTrump EPA Bringing Positive ChangeBy: U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.)  Charleston Gazette-Mail (Daily Mail Opinion Page)November 28, 2017\nThis Tuesday and Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency is holding alistening sessionin Charleston on its proposal to withdraw from the Obama administrations so-called Clean Power Plan.\nThe Trump administrations decision to withdraw from this plan, and the decision to hear directly from West Virginians, demonstrate a positive change from the job-killing policies of the previous administration.\nWest Virginians expect federal agencies to follow the law. We want leaders to consider the impact of regulations on jobs and the economy. And, importantly, officials must listen to those Americans who will be most impacted by their decisions. Its clear that this administration and EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt are changing course.\nThe Clean Power Plan was an effort by the Obama administration to force states to turn away from coal-powered electricity. Congress never gave EPA the authority to implement such a sweeping regulatory change  and that is why the U.S. Supreme Court took the rare step of blocking implementation of the rule before it could take effect.\nLegislation I introduced to overturn the rule was passed by both the Senate and the House, but was vetoed by President Barack Obama.\nWest Virginia is the nations second-largest coal producing state. Because coal accounts for over 94 percent of electricity generation in our state, West Virginians would have been disproportionately impacted by the Clean Power Plan.\nOur state lost thousands of good-paying jobs due in large part to other EPA overreaches. And government budgets at the state and local levels were decimated by the loss of tax revenue that coal has long provided in our state.\nBut Obamas EPA refused to hold a listening session on the Clean Power Plan in West Virginia. Instead, the previous administration chose to listen in places like San Francisco, Boston and New York City.\nIt was clear that Obamas EPA had no desire to hear from the miners, truck drivers, railroad workers, small businesses and many others across coal country whose livelihoods would be most impacted by the rule.\nAt a Senate hearing,I askedformer EPA Air Chief Janet McCabe why the Obama administration chose not to visit West Virginia. She responded that EPA held its public events where it was comfortable.\nAfter a difficult eight years, it is refreshing to see that the Trump administration is comfortable listening to the needs of working families here in West Virginia.\nPresident Donald Trump and our Republican congressional majority are rolling back some of the worst regulatory abuses of the previous administration. In February, Congress passed, and Trump signed, legislation to block a last-minute rule proposed by Obamas Interior Department that could have cost thousands of jobs.\nEveryone agrees that we need clean air and clean water; still, West Virginians should not be forced to choose between economic prosperity and a clean environment. We expect both.\nThat is why federal environmental laws like the Clean Water Act, and the Clean Air Act provide for cooperation between federal authorities and state officials. This structure allows states to make decisions that are best for local communities economic and environmental needs.\nThe last administration upset that balance in favor of heavy-handed control from Washington. That led more than half the states to follow West Virginias lead in filing suit against the Clean Power Plan.\nCongress and the Trump administration are working to restore the proper balance that enforces our environmental laws while protecting our jobs. And we are already seeing positive results. West Virginia coal production was up 23 percent in the first half of 2017 as compared with the first half of 2016.\nThe Trump administration is bringing the change to regulatory policy that West Virginians voted for. I welcome the new EPA to Charleston and will continue working with President Trump to keep West Virginia a leading energy producer for generations to come.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-funding-to-hire-law-enforcement-in-three-west-virginia-counties", "Capito, Manchin Announce Funding to Hire Law Enforcement in Three West Virginia Counties", "2017-11-22", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.22.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Announce Funding to Hire Law Enforcement in Three West Virginia Counties \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCHARLESTON, W.Va. U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced a total of $498,694 from the U.S. Department of Justices (DOJ) Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program. Funding will be used to hire full-time law enforcement officers in Marion, Cabell and Fayette counties.    West Virginias law enforcement professionals work tirelessly to keep dangerous criminals off of our streets and ensure our communities are safe, and it is critical that we support them in their efforts, Senator Capito said. This funding will allow the cities of Fairmont and Oak Hill and the Cabell County Sheriffs Department to hire additional officers to help them continue the important work they do.    Im glad to see this investment in our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to keep our families and communities safe. This funding will enable Fairmont, Oak Hill and Cabell County Sheriff Departments to hire additional officers and better protect us, Senator Manchin said.    Individual awards listed below:\r\n \r\nCity of Fairmont - $250,000\r\n \r\n \r\nCabell County Sheriffs Department - $125,000\r\n \r\n \r\nCity of Oak Hill - $123,694\r\n \r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-wishes-west-virginians-a-happy-thanksgiving", "Capito Wishes West Virginians a Happy Thanksgiving", "2017-11-22", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.22.17\n\t\t\t Capito Wishes West Virginians a Happy Thanksgiving \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday:    Every year during the Thanksgiving holiday, we are reminded of our many blessings. I am thankful for so muchincluding my family and friends, good health, the men and women who selflessly serve this country, and the opportunity to serve West Virginians in the United States Senate. Charlie and I look forward to spending time in Charleston with our children and grandchildren as we celebrate these blessings. We wish all West Virginians a very happy and safe Thanksgiving.  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-capito-op-ed-highlights-need-for-pro-growth-tax-reform", "ICYMI: Capito Op-Ed Highlights Need for Pro-Growth Tax Reform", "2017-11-22", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.22.17\n\t\t\t ICYMI: Capito Op-Ed Highlights Need for Pro-Growth Tax Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCHARLESTON, W.Va.  In an op-ed for the Beckley Register-Herald, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) outlines how comprehensive pro-growth tax reform will benefit West Virginians and encourages support for this this once-in-a-generation opportunity. The op-ed comes after the House of Representatives passed their tax reform proposal last week, and the Senate is expected to take up their own proposal following Thanksgiving.\nFor the first time in decades, we have an opportunity to take our complicated and outdated tax code and make it simple, fair, and more competitive. The plan being considered in the Senate will provide relief for working families, help businesses of all sizes grow and expand, and spark the kind of growth that can truly transform our economy, Senator Capito wrote.\nView the op-ed here and below.\nTax Reform Offers Growth OpportunitiesBy: U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.)  Beckley Register-HeraldNovember 22, 2017\nAs West Virginia families travel home to gather together for Thanksgiving  whether just down the street or from across the country  I cant help but think about all of the gifts and opportunities we have to be thankful for.\nOur state has had a rough go of it during the past eight years, and weve all felt the effects of a struggling economy, overregulation and fewer opportunities to get ahead. But things are turning around in West Virginia.\nThis year, weve enjoyed consistent economic growth, unemployment is down, and were seeing significant new investments in our workers and our resources. All of these developments make me thankful  and proud to be a West Virginian. They also make me even more eager to build on this momentum and seize other opportunities to move our state forward.\nThats why I have been working with my Senate colleagues to pass comprehensive tax reform.\nFor the first time in decades, we have an opportunity to take our complicated and outdated tax code and make it simple, fair, and more competitive.\nThe plan being considered in the Senate will provide relief for working families, help businesses of all sizes grow and expand, and spark the kind of growth that can truly transform our economy.\nThese are the principles that have guided me throughout this entire process. Theyre goals that are shared by so many Americans  regardless of political party  and recent evidence shows that the Senate plan checks all of the boxes.\nA study from the Tax Foundation found that the Senate bill would create the equivalent of 925,000 new jobs across the country. Thats significant.\nIn West Virginia, the average middle-income family would gain $1,952 in after-tax income because of the legislation. Think about what that extra money would mean to you and your family. Do you need to make repairs to your car or take care of another expense? Do you need to set some aside for a college fund, for your retirement, or even a rainy day?\nThe Tax Foundation also found that our state would see approximately 4,700 new jobs created. Think about what those new jobs would mean for our communities, and for our students who graduate without the opportunities they need to stay in West Virginia and start their careers.\nThe Senate bill also doubles the child tax credit for hard-working families and nearly doubles the standard deduction which is used by over 80 percent of West Virginia tax filers.\nWere talking about making a real, tangible difference in the lives of West Virginians and all Americans. Which is why I just cant understand the misguided attacks coming from Democrats and other critics.\nSome are saying the Senate plan is tax cuts for the rich  but report after report has made it clear that Americans at all income levels will benefit from these tax cuts.\nOthers are saying that this is a partisan exercise done in secret  but tax reform has been subject to a thorough and open legislative process. In fact, there have been 70 Senate hearings on tax reform since 2011, and the current proposal just went through a full markup in committee and will be subject to significant debate on the floor. That means any Senator  Republican or Democrat  will have an opportunity to amend and debate the bill.\nWhen you take time to really consider these criticisms, they ring hollow. Theyre the same excuses that have been recycled for years.\nThe truth is simple: If Democrats and others are really serious about helping working families and moving our country and our state forward, this is their opportunity.\nPresident Trump is ready to sign a bill that grows our economy and benefits middle-income families, and every member of Congress has a decision to make.\nWe can cling to the status quo and a failed economic approach perpetuated by the policies of the previous administration, or we can work together with President Trump to pass tax reform.\nThis is an important moment for our country. Its an opportunity to do something big and bold. Its an opportunity to build a stronger economy, to grow our small businesses and provide more jobs and higher wages, and to deliver tax relief to all Americans.\nI am so thankful for the chance to represent our great state in the Senate and for the opportunity to deliver solutions like tax reform that I know will help make your lives better.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=315", "McKinley Nominates 14 Students to Service Academies", "2017-11-21", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-W.Va.) has nominated 14 West Virginia students to United States service academies including the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Congressional nomination is the first step in a process toward appointment to a military academy.\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-W.Va.) has nominated 14 West Virginia students to United States service academies including the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Congressional nomination is the first step in a process toward appointment to a military academy. These fourteen young men and women represent the best our state has to offer, said Rep. McKinley. Because of their hard work and commitment, they have earned this distinction. They show great promise not only in the classroom but on the athletic field, and in their community. West Virginia continues to produce the next generation of leaders. The following students were nominated by Rep. McKinley based on their academic performance, extracurricular activity in their communities, and personal recommendations: Derek Dearth (Wheeling) attendsCentral Catholic High School. Derek served as Assistant Captain for the varsity hockey team when they were the 2016-2017 WV state champions, and serves as the Captain for the varsity lacrosse team. He was named 2017 WVSLA All Star. Derek is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta National Honors Society, Rho Kappa National Honors Society, the United Way Junior Board, and has served as a Class Officer for the Student Council. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Aaron Flowers(Morgantown) currently attends West Virginia University and is a graduate of University High School. Aaron played football and lacrosse for University High School and is nationally recognized for his marksmanship as part of the Junior Olympics Team and WV Junior Marksman Program. He is a member of the WVU Rifle Club and ROTC Promise Scholar and is an Eagle Scout and member of the Order of the Arrow. Aaron has served as part of the ROTC Color Guard Team, a member of the WVU ROTC Program and ROTC Color Guard. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point and U.S. Naval Academy.  Michael Hall (Wheeling) attends Wheeling Central Catholic High School. He has received the Geography Award, the Latin Conference Team Award, the World History Award and the French Award. He has played basketball, baseball and football for his school. He is a member of the Junior Rangers, Catholic Charities, Latin Club, Key Club, Ski Club and is working towards his pilot's license. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy.  Cameron Kellar(Morgantown) attends Trinity Christian School. Cameron has played varsity basketball for four years. He is a member of the Drama Club, the Fellowship of Christian athletes and is a leader in his church's youth group. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Rebecca Kocsis (Enterprise) attends North Marion where she is ranked 1st in her class. She is Captain of the Soccer Team, Captain of the Swim Team, and has run track for four years. She won the Rhododendron Girls State Outstanding Citizenship Award, the Rotary Youth Leadership Award, and the Golden Horseshoe Award. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Chess Club, and serves as Senior Class Vice President. Rebecca attended the WV State Trooper Academy and a Mu Alpha Theta Math Honorary. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy. Josephine Laing (Wheeling) attends Wheeling Park High School. She served as Jr. Varsity Captain for the soccer team for two years. She is a member of the National Honor Society, the Technology Student Association, the Debate Team Public Forum Division Leader and contender for the National Debate Tournament, member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Drug Free Clubs of America. Josephine is also the 1st Chair Violin for the school orchestra. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point and U.S. Naval Academy. Dominic Lough (Grafton) attends Grafton High School and is ranked fifth in his class. Dominic has played on the school's football and baseball teams all four years. He has served as a Class Officer, Officer of the School Club and on Student Council. He's been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for two years and was part of the 2017 Governor's Honors Academy. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Naval Academy.  Massimo Menguito (Bridgeport) attends Bridgeport High School. He has played soccer and has been a member of the swimming team for four years. He was Co-Captain of the Mountain State Soccer Team. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Chess Club, French Honorary Society, Student Council, has served as Treasurer for the student government and is an accomplished musician. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point.  John Rocky Pallotta (Morgantown) attends University High School where he is ranked 6th in his class. John has served as Team Captain for the varsity soccer team and has played varsity lacrosse. He is a member of the National Honor Society, is an Honorary Member of Mu Alpha Theta, member of American Legion Mountaineer Boys State, 1st place winner of TEAMS, and scholarship winner from the WVU Statler School of Engineering. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy. Keith Skaggs (Flemington) attends Grafton High School where he is ranked 1st in his class. He has served as Captain of the varsity soccer team, Captain of the wrestling team and has run cross country. He has served as Class Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Youth Leadership Association, Bearcat Brigade, WV SADD Student Leadership Team, President of the Hispanic National Honor Society, and semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point and U.S. Air Force Academy.  Jack Stryker(Wheeling) attends Central Catholic High School where he is ranked 3rd in his class. He was recognized as special team Player of the Year for his school's football team, has served as captain of the soccer team and has run on the varsity track team for three years. He has served as President for the National Honors Society, Vice President for Mu Alpha Theta, as treasurer for Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, Treasurer for the Spanish National Honor Society and Team Captain for the Science Bowl. Jack has also served on the youth board for the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston and as Class President for two years. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy.  Trey Toland (Mannington) attends North Marion High School where he is ranked 7th in his class. He is Captain of the Tennis Team, Regional Singles/Doubles Champion, Conference Doubles Champion, and Special Teams Captain of the football team. Trey won the WV Young Writers Award and has been named the Times West Virginian Newspaper's Player of the Week for football. He is a member of the National Honor Society, the WV Young Writers, and Mu Alpha Theta. He has served as Editor for his school's newspaper, the Husky Headlines and as Student Body President. Nominated to U.S. Military Academy at West Point and U.S. Naval Academy. Isaac Waters (Vienna) attends Parkersburg High School. He has played soccer for three years and has won a gold medal with the school's crew team. He has served a member of the Order of the Arrow, as an officer in the Senior Men's Club, as Patrol Leader for the Boy Scouts and as Assistant Patrol Leader for the 2017 National Boy Scouts Jamboree. Isaac has won several two-mile swim awards and has won the God and Country Award. Nominated to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Sada Wright (Glenville) attends Gilmer County High School where she is ranked 10th in her class. She has run track and field for three years and has played basketball for two. Sada is the 2017 Class A Shot Put & Discus State Champion, 2017 AAU All American, and 1st Team ALL-LKC. She holds the school record for the longest discus throw in Class A history. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Glenville Youth Ministry, Drama Club, Belle Ministerial Association, and has served as Class President for three years. Nominated to U.S. Naval Academy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-funding-for-health-facilities-community-infrastructure", "Capito, Manchin Announce Funding for Health Facilities, Community Infrastructure", "2017-11-21", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.21.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Announce Funding for Health Facilities, Community Infrastructure \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced a total of $355,000 for Highland-Clarksburg Hospital and Cowen Public Service District (PSD) through the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding will be used to improve the hospital facility and water service to Cowen PSD customers.\nQuality health care facilities and public services are essential for West Virginias rural communities, Senator Capito said. I am particularly thrilled that part of this funding will go toward improving facilities for those suffering from mental and behavioral health issues, including substance abuse disorders. I will continue to fight for programs that invest in the well-being of West Virginians.\nIm glad to see this investment in Highland-Clarksburg Hospital and Cowen Public Service District. Qualityhealthcare facilitiesand safe water infrastructure are important elements of our communities. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for resources to improve our West Virginia communities, Senator Manchin said.\nIndividual awards listed below:\r\n \r\n$325,000  Highland-Clarksburg Hospital: This funding will go toward an outdoor recreation area for patients, as well as roof repairs. It is provided through the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program.\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$30,000  Cowen Public Service District: This funding will go toward a study to identify and correct leaks in the PSDs system. It is provided through the Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households (SEARCH) program.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-funding-to-repair-flood-damage-at-national-fish-hatchery", "Capito, Manchin Announce Funding to Repair Flood Damage at National Fish Hatchery", "2017-11-20", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.20.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Announce Funding to Repair Flood Damage at National Fish Hatchery \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced a total of $212,963 from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery. Funding will be used by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to repair damage done to trails and other infrastructure as a result of the June 2016 floods.\nThe White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery has been a part of West Virginia for more than 100 years, supplying our nations rivers with trout, Senator Capito said. Sadly, it experienced significant damage as a result of the horrible floods that impacted our state last summer. Through my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have worked to secure funding to make sure the hatchery could reopen, and I am thrilled it is being repaired so West Virginians and fishermen everywhere can enjoy all it has to offer.\nAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, I have worked to make sure that West Virginia receives the funding we need to properly repair and rebuild after the historic floods last year  that includes the National Fish Hatchery in White Sulphur Springs, Senator Manchin said. The National Fish Hatchery kept rivers in West Virginia and our nation stocked with fish for over 100 years, and I am glad it is receiving the funding they need to continue.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-others-introduce-bipartisan-chesapeake-restoration-legislation", "Capito, Manchin, Others Introduce Bipartisan Chesapeake Restoration Legislation", "2017-11-17", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.17.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin, Others Introduce Bipartisan Chesapeake Restoration Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) joined several colleagues yesterday to introduce the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay Farm Bill Enhancements Act of 2017. This legislation increases mandatory funding for the bay, strengthens the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCCP) and provides more opportunities for effective conservation efforts. Senators Capito and Manchin were joined by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.). Congressman Bobby Scott (D-Va.) introduced the House companion measure.    The Chesapeake Bay headwaters in West Virginia sustain important ecosystems and play a vital role in our states economy,Senator Capito said.This bipartisan legislation will provide essential grant funding for West Virginia, which will go a long way in continuing our efforts to support the bays restoration and care, ensuring that it remains a vibrant natural resource for future generations.    Since 2014, the Regional Conservation Partnership Program invested $19.1 million for 6 projects with 88 partners in West Virginia. These projects have improved water quality and benefited the wildlife in our streams and rivers in the Eastern Panhandle. Overall, these investments have improved water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, without placing an unfair burden on the state, Senator Manchin said. Im proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation, to provide partners greater resources and ensure we continue to restore the nations largest estuary.    Not only is the Chesapeake Bay a national treasure, its also crucial to Maryland jobs and our economy, said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and lead sponsor of the bill. This bill will provide more resources for restoration efforts that are key to the Bays health. As we begin work on the Farm Bill, I urge my colleagues to seriously consider this legislation. This investment will help ensure that our Bay economy continues to thrive and that Marylanders and tourists can enjoy this treasure for generations to come.    In the 2008 Farm Bill, Congress authorized the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative to provide assistance to agricultural producers to minimize excess nutrients and sediments in order to restore, preserve, and protect the Chesapeake Bay. On average, approximately $50 million was invested annually in the Chesapeake Bay through in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative. In 2014, the RCPP was created in order to prioritize conservation resources that were previously handled by separate conservation programs such as the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative. Unfortunately, under the RCPP, the Chesapeake Bay has received significantly less funding  averaging around $13 million annually.    The Chesapeake Bay Farm Bill Enhancements Act would help restore some of this much-needed funding by tripling the amount of mandatory RCPP funding available per fiscal year from $100 million to $300 million. The bill would also improve technical assistance for partners and prioritize projects that improve water quality and water quantity and implement multi-state watershed restoration plans.    The text of the legislation can be found here. A letter from groups supporting this legislation can be found here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-votes-tax-cuts-jobs-act", "REP. JENKINS VOTES FOR TAX CUTS & JOBS ACT", "2017-11-16", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) voted today to help pass the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, landmark tax reform legislation.\n\u201cPresident Trump has made tax reform one of his key issues, and I was proud to stand with him to pass this once-in-a-generation tax cuts, tax simplification and job-creating legislation. Our vision for America is one where middle-class families can keep more of their hard-earned money and where small businesses can unleash their job-growing potential. Hardworking West Virginians know best how to spend their money, not Washington. We are one step closer to historic tax cuts for American families and small businesses, and I urge the Senate to act quickly to deliver this tax relief,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=438", "McKinley Votes to Provide Middle-Class Tax Relief", "2017-11-16", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, the House passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which makes America's tax system fairer, simpler and lowers taxes on the middle-class. Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) voted yes on the bill and will be monitoring the next steps with the Senate.\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, the House passed H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which makes America's tax system fairer, simpler and lowers taxes on the middle-class. Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) voted yes on the bill and will be monitoring the next steps with the Senate. It has been 31 years since we updated our tax code. America is now much more deeply involved in global competition; therefore, it's time to reform our tax system. This reform will bring some much-needed relief to the middle-class. We must make our code simpler and fairer, and this bill removes special interest loopholes, reduces rates, and makes it so that most families can file their taxes on a postcard. It will also increase America's competitiveness on the world stage, and open the door for private sector job creation, said McKinley. Our office successfully worked to preserve clean coal research credits in the House legislation, he added. We are expecting the Historic Preservation Tax Credit to be included in the final version. We have a clear choice here: do we allow the status quo to continue, which only benefits the wealthy and politically connected? Or do we allow the process to continue and fight to ensure the final version is the best deal possible for the middle class and small employers? said McKinley. This is a process, and today we voted to move forward to the next step. Some issues still need to be resolved in the final bill, and we will be closely monitoring the negotiations, McKinley said. Background The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act delivers on the promises made by Congressional Republicans and President Trump to lower middle-class tax rates and open the door for more private sector job creation. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Lowers individual tax rates for low- and middle-income Americans to Zero, 12%, 25%, and 35%.Doubles the standard deduction from $6,350 to $12,000 for individuals and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples.Average middle-class family of four will save $1,182 per year on taxes.West Virginia will see a $1,685 increase in median household income.Expands the Child Tax Creditfrom $1,000 to $1,600 to help parents with the cost of raising children.Preserves the home mortgage interest deduction for existing mortgages and maintains the credit for newly purchased homes up to $500,000.Retains popular retirement savings optionssuch as 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts so Americans can continue to save for their future.Lowers the corporate tax ratefrom 35% to 20%, opening the door for private sector job growth.Makes it easier and far less costly for American businesses to bring home foreign earningsto invest in creating jobs and increasing paychecks in our local communities. McKinley successfully worked with House leadership to ensure that the bill also retains critical clean coal research credits. As the process moves forward, he will continue working to ensure that the Historic Preservation Tax Credit is included in the final version that comes out of the conference committee. This credit is critical in redeveloping Main Streets throughout West Virginia.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-mooney-praises-tax-cuts-west-virginia-families", "Congressman Mooney Praises Tax Cuts for West Virginia Families", "2017-11-16", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Alex Mooney", "M001195", "mooney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Mooney Praises Tax Cuts for West Virginia Families\nWashington, DC \u2013 Today, Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-02) voted for H.R. 1 - the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which will result in a $1,655 tax cut for the average family in West Virginia\u2019s Second Congressional District. He released the following statement:\n\u201cToday, I proudly voted for lower taxes for all hard-working West Virginia taxpayers. I share President Donald Trump\u2019s commitment to creating more good paying jobs in our state and country.\nThe current tax code is too confusing and in our tax reform plan most Americans will file their taxes on a postcard. This bill will grow our economy, encourage job creation and raise take-home pay.\nWhile Democrats have failed to offer any tax relief plans, the Republican majority in Congress ran on a plan to reform the tax code\u2014and today we delivered a big win for the American people.\nI support President Trump in bringing much needed tax relief for West Virginia families and small businesses,\u201d said Rep. Mooney.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-pass-major-defense-funding-bill", "Capito Votes to Pass Major Defense Funding Bill", "2017-11-16", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.16.17\n\t\t\t Capito Votes to Pass Major Defense Funding Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Legislation includes Capito amendment providing health benefits for mobilized reservists\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation was approved unanimously and includes Senator Capitos amendment providing health benefits that have been unfairly denied to mobilizing reservists. The House of Representatives passed the measure earlier this week, and it now heads to President Trumps desk for his signature.    Its critical that our military has the resources they need to face and combat the very real and evolving threats facing our country, Senator Capito said. The legislation we passed today will help fund key national security priorities and ensure our military has the tools necessary to continue defending our nation and keeping Americans safe. It also provides essential support for service members and their families and gives our troops a well-deserved pay raise. I was proud to support this important bill and even more proud I was able to secure a provision that will provide mobilized reservists the same health benefits as active duty members.    On behalf of the 45,000 members of the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) and the nearly 500,000 soldiers and airmen of the National Guard, we greatly appreciate the inclusion of Senator Capitos amendment in the final version of the Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), said Brigadier General (Ret.) J. Roy Robinson, president of NGAUS. This vitally important amendment will significantly benefit thousands of National Guardsmen and Reservists deployed under 12304 mobilization authority by providing them access to pre- and post-mobilization TRICARE health coverage.    The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) greatly appreciates Senator Capitos efforts to secure health care benefits for reservists, said Sergeant Major (Ret.) Frank Yoakum, executive director of EANGUS. The brave men and women of our National Guard deserve the same benefits as active duty when theyre called up to serve the country.    NDAA Highlights:\r\n \r\nProvides nearly $700 billion for equipment and personnel to fight terrorism and other evolving threats.\r\n \r\n \r\nAuthorizes a 2.4 percent across-the-board pay raise for uniformed service members.\r\n \r\n \r\nAddresses the readiness shortfall, crisis in modernization and eroding military advantage by recapitalizing our forces and reinvesting in our capabilities. \r\n \r\n \r\nBans the transfer of Guantanamo Bay detainees to the United States.\r\n \r\n \r\nIncreases STARBASE funding by more than $20 million. STARBASE educates K-12 students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to encourage careers in those fields.\r\n \r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=193", "McKinley & Thompson Stand Up for Rural Patients, Hospitals", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Reps. David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) and Mike Thompson (CA-5) introduced H.R. 4392 to reverse a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rule cutting $1.6B for drugs purchased by certain hospitals covered under the 340B program. These cuts jeopardize care for millions by directly reducing revenue to hospitals that care for vulnerable patients in underserved and rural communities, without addressing the underlying price of the drugs.\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, Reps. David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) and Mike Thompson (CA-5) introduced H.R. 4392 to reverse a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rule cutting $1.6B for drugs purchased by certain hospitals covered under the 340B program. These cuts jeopardize care for millions by directly reducing revenue to hospitals that care for vulnerable patients in underserved and rural communities, without addressing the underlying price of the drugs. Protecting access to prescription drugs for low income communities should be a priority. Unfortunately, CMS's misguided rule jeopardizes the ability of rural hospitals to provide vital services. This would have a huge impact on West Virginia hospitals' ability to provide affordable care. We led a bipartisan letter to CMS with nearly 250 signers, urging them to reconsider, but they didn't listen. This bill ensures that hospitals are able to continue providing affordable services, and gives rural families peace of mind, said McKinley. This rule dramatically undermines the ability of hospitals across the country to deliver care to our nation's most vulnerable populations. I'm disappointed that CMS did not listen to hospitals, nor a majority of members in the House and Senate, and approved a rule that puts both hospitals and patients at risk, said Thompson. I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stop this rule and ensure the 340B program can continue to serve low-income populations as Congress intended. The AHA thanks Representatives McKinley and Thompson for leading this bipartisan effort to protect patient care by preventing CMS from reducing Medicare Part B payments for some 340B hospitals, said Tom Nickels, Executive Vice President of the American Hospital Association. For 25 years, the 340B Drug Pricing program has been critical in helping hospitals expand access to lifesaving prescription drugs and comprehensive health care to low-income patients and other vulnerable populations in communities across the country. The AAMC would like to thank Representatives McKinley and Thompson for introducing this important bipartisan bill to prevent major Medicare cuts to safety net hospitals that participate in the 340B Drug Pricing Program, said Atul Grover, MD, PhD, Executive Vice President of the Association of American Medical Colleges. This program provides savings to many teaching hospitals, allowing them to maintain vital services for patients at no cost to taxpayers. We thank Congressmen McKinley and Thompson for their leadership and support for low-income Americans and their essential hospitals, said Bruce Siegel, MD, MPH, President and CEO of America's Essential Hospitals. They understand the damage this policy will cause to communities in West Virginia, California, and across the country, and we appreciate their efforts to protect patients. We urge all House members to support access to affordable drugs by supporting this critical legislation. Background On November 1, 2017, CMS cut the reimbursement rate for Medicare Part B drugs purchased by certain hospitals covered under the 340B program by around $1.6B. This legislation would completely negate the effects of this rule. Since 1992, the 340B program has used mandated discounts offered by drug manufacturers to help hospitals and other covered entities provide discounted drugs and lifesaving services to their patients. The CMS rule eliminates funding that hospitals use to support the unreimbursed cost of care for those who need it the most. On September 28, 2017, McKinley and Thompson organized a bipartisan letter to CMS Administrator Seema Verma urging the administration to withdraw its harmful proposal to cut the 340B Drug Pricing Program. This letter was signed by 228 Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle who understand that protecting access to affordable care is a top priority. To view the text of the bill, click here. To view the bipartisan letter to CMS, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mooney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-alex-mooney-applauds-passage-bill-roll-back-obama-coal", "Congressman Alex Mooney Applauds Passage of Bill to Roll Back Obama Coal Regulations", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Alex Mooney", "M001195", "mooney.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Alex Mooney Applauds Passage of Bill to Roll Back Obama Coal Regulations\nWashington, DC - Today, the House Financial Services Committee passed Congressman Mooney\u2019s bill, H.R. 4289 to repeal a duplicative Obama-era regulation on coal mining.\n\u201cPresident Donald Trump has renewed his commitment to reversing the damage done by former President Barack Obama\u2019s War on Coal. The passage of this bill represents one part of our ongoing efforts to revitalize the coal industry and brings jobs back to West Virginia.\nWall street regulators should not be responsible for monitoring or reporting mine safety conditions. The Department of Labor\u2019s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) already regulates coal mining. Due to Obama era Dodd- Frank regulations, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which is tasked with regulating Wall Street and Financial Institutions is duplicating the work of the Department of Labor.\nAdding this duplicative disclosure requirement is unneeded and represents another hurdle Washington puts in the way of opening new mines and rebuilding the coal industry,\u201d said Rep. Mooney.\nH.R. 4289 repeals Section 1503 of the Dodd-Frank Act.\u00a0 Section 1503 directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to promulgate rules requiring mining companies to disclose certain safety information in their quarterly and annual reports. This duplicative disclosure requirement is estimated to have increases compliance costs on the industry by well over $1 million annually.\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-applaud-passage-of-senate-resolution-commemorating-usns-hershel-woody-williams-ship-christening", "Capito, Manchin Applaud Passage of Senate Resolution Commemorating USNS Hershel Woody Williams Ship Christening", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.15.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Applaud Passage of Senate Resolution Commemorating USNS Hershel Woody Williams Ship Christening \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today applauded the passage of a Senate Resolution commemorating the ship christening of USNS Hershel Woody Williams (T-ESB4). The ship is named after Medal of Honor recipient and renowned West Virginian, Hershel Woody Williams.\nThe USNS Hershel Woody Williams could not have a better namesake, Senator Capito said. Woodys life is the embodiment of what it means to serve this country, both during World War II and his dedication to veterans and Gold Star families. I am proud to call Woody a friend, and this ship is a true testament to his bravery and unwavering commitment to serving others.\nPerhaps in no other time in our recent history has it been more vital to remember and emulate the heroism, perseverance, and patriotism of those who belong to the greatest generation. Woody is the embodiment of the best of his generation, Senator Manchin said. Through the christening of a ship that bears his name, we are both honoring his great service and lifting up a role model to inspire all West Virginians and Americans alike. I would like to salute Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel Woody Williams. I also want to thank him for his great service to this great nation and the great state of West Virginia  for showing us the power of patriotism, freedom and family.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-opioid-safety-in-va-choice-program", "Capito, Manchin Introduce Bill to Strengthen Opioid Safety in VA Choice Program", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.15.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Introduce Bill to Strengthen Opioid Safety in VA Choice Program \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bipartisan VA reform legislation named in memory of West Virginia veteran Andrew White\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) today introduced bipartisan legislation, the Andrew White Veterans Community Care Opioid Safety Act, to strengthen opioid therapy safety and pain care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) community care programs, including through the VA Choice program. Senator Capito named the legislation in memory of West Virginian Andrew White, a Marine who was overprescribed a strong antipsychotic drug after returning home from Iraq and died tragically in his sleep at the age of 23.    To improve opioid safety and care for our veterans, Congress passed legislation introduced by Senators Capito and Baldwinthe Jason Simcakoski Memorial and Promise Act (Jasons Law)to strengthen the VAs opioid prescribing guidelines, put in place stronger oversight and accountability, and provide safer and more effective pain management services for our nations veterans.    While the VA has made progress increasing opioid safety and reducing overprescribing within the VA health care system through Jasons Law, recent reports have found that veterans receiving opioid therapy from community care providers, including through the VA Choice program, are at a significant risk.    Jasons Law was a significant step in preventing opioid overprescribing at the VA and holding VA officials and health care professionals accountable to the men and women who have selflessly served our country. However, it has become clear that more can be done to prevent addiction and opioid abuse among our veterans served by community care providers, Senator Capito said. This legislation will help ensure the health and well-being of all veterans seeking careveterans like Andrew White, a brave Marine and West Virginian who tragically lost his life after being overprescribed. Im proud to honor Andrews memory with this bill and to continue such an important effort with Senator Baldwin.    As a country, we owe our Veterans the best medical care available and that includes safely managing pain, Senator Manchin said. In 2016, I was proud to join Senator Baldwin in passing the Jason Simcakoski Memorial and Promise Act in 2016, which strengthened VA opioid prescribing guidelines, and oversight and accountability. The Andrew White Veterans Community Care Opioid Safety Act is the next step to ensure that VA is not sending veterans out to irresponsible or reckless providers in the community who overprescribe opioids. I look forward to passing this legislation, which will safeguard the well-being and care of our nations bravest men and women.    A July 2017 VA Office of Inspector General report on opioid prescribing in VA community care programs found that contract providers are not subject to many of the opioid safety reforms included in Jasons Law and implemented at the VA. Specifically, community care providers are not aware of and thus, not complying with, VA opioid therapy and safe prescribing protocols. Furthermore, the VA is not consistently tracking opioid prescriptions from community care programs due to significant information exchange gaps between VA and non-VA providers.    The bipartisan Andrew White Veterans Community Care Opioid Safety Act would strengthen opioid therapy safety and pain care at VA community care programs by implementing the VA Inspector Generals recommendations and extending targeted opioid safety reforms in Jasons Law to VA purchased care. This would ensure community care providers follow the same safe opioid prescribing standards and have access to the same up-to-date pain care information as VA practitioners to help guarantee that all of our veterans receive safe and high-quality care in their communities.    Specifically, the Andrew White Veterans Community Care Opioid Safety Act would:  \r\n \r\nDirect the VA to provide critical health information, including a list of medications, as well as the latest opioid safety guidelines immediately to a non-VA provider when a veteran accesses services through a community care program to ensure the provider has the information needed to provide safe and effective care.\r\n \r\n \r\nRequire non-VA community care providers to review the updated VA/DOD safe opioid prescribing guidelines and Opioid Safety Initiative protocols prior to delivering care to a veteran.\r\n \r\n \r\nDirect non-VA community care providers to submit opioid medications they prescribe to a veteran to a VA pharmacy for dispensing and to ensure it is included in the VA database and the patients medical record for tracking.\r\n \r\n \r\nEnsure that any veteran with an immediate medical need or who is unable to obtain the prescription at a VA pharmacy due travel distances or undue hardship may access it at another pharmacy, and directs their community care provider to notify and provide information on the prescription to VA.\r\n \r\n \r\nHold the VA accountable by requiring compliance reports to Congress and ensure that the VA can take action to protect veterans if a non-VA community care provider is not delivering safe or appropriate care.\r\n \r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-msha-nominee-zatezalo", "Capito Statement on MSHA Nominee Zatezalo", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.15.17\n\t\t\t Capito Statement on MSHA Nominee Zatezalo \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement after voting to confirm David Zatezalo as head of the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Zatezalo was confirmed on a vote of 52-46:\nMr. Zatezalo has assured me that his first priority is the safety and health of our nations miners. As a West Virginian who began his career as a union coal miner, I believe Mr. Zatezalo understands MSHAs important role. His confirmation hearing made clear that he will continue to rigorously enforce our mine safety laws and will work to expedite the deployment of new technologies that will help make our mines safer. I look forward to working with him in his new role to protect the safety of our miners.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-tax-reform-will-lead-to-more-jobs-income-for-west-virginians", "Capito: Tax Reform Will Lead to More Jobs, Income for West Virginians", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.15.17\n\t\t\t Capito: Tax Reform Will Lead to More Jobs, Income for West Virginians \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  In a speech today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) highlighted how tax reform will create new jobs and help middle-class West Virginia families keep more of their hard-earned money. A new analysis from The Tax Foundation found that the average middle-income family in West Virginia would gain $1,952 in after-tax income and approximately 4,700 new jobs will be created in West Virginia by reforming the tax system.  \r\n    For a video of Senator Capitos full remarks, clickhereor on the image above.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-continues-working-to-hold-va-accountable-for-efforts-to-combat-opioid-abuse", "VIDEO: Capito Continues Working to Hold VA Accountable for Efforts to Combat Opioid Abuse", "2017-11-15", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.15.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Continues Working to Hold VA Accountable for Efforts to Combat Opioid Abuse \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, today participated in an oversight hearing she requested to hold the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable for efforts to prevent opioid overmedication.    Senator Capito previously helped secure in appropriations legislation language from the Jason Simcakoski Memorial Opioid Safety Act, a bipartisan VA reform bill she introduced to provide safer and more effective pain management services to our nations veterans. Named for a veteran who overdosed under VA care, provisions of the legislation were passed by Congress and signed into law as part of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act in July 2016 and the 21st Century Cures Act in December 2016.    Today, Senator Capito had the opportunity to hear from Jasons father, Marvin Simcakoski, who testified at the hearing and spoke about the senators leadership in efforts to combat opioid abuse among veterans and hold the VA accountable. She continued those efforts today, introducing the Andrew White Veterans Community Care Opioid Safety Act to strengthen opioid therapy safety and pain care through the VA community care programs. Senator Capito named the bipartisan legislation in memory of West Virginian Andrew White, a Marine who was overprescribed a strong antipsychotic drug after returning home from Iraq and died tragically in his sleep at the age of 23.  \r\n\r\n  For a video of Senator Capito questioning VA officials about their efforts to combat opioid abuse, click here or on the image above.    More information on the hearing, witness testimony and an archived webcast are available here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-supports-troops-pay-raise-key-defense-spending", "REP. JENKINS SUPPORTS TROOPS PAY RAISE, KEY DEFENSE SPENDING", "2017-11-14", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) helped pass key legislation today to provide a pay raise for our armed forces and critical funding to ensure our national security.\nThe National Defense Authorization Act, which the U.S. House of Representatives passed 356-70 today, will give our men and women in uniform a much-deserved pay increase. It also provides much-needed funding and resources for our troops to fulfill their missions and protect the homeland, including support to combat ISIS and other terrorist organizations in Afghanistan and Iraq.\n\u201cOur brave men and women in uniform put their lives on the line so we can live in freedom, and I will always ensure that they have the support and tools they need to complete their missions. This bill gives our military much-needed resources, including planes, ships and vehicles, to combat and destroy ISIS and radical Islamic terrorism. Meanwhile, we also must care for our troops during their service, and we have included a pay raise so they can provide for their families. This bill strengthens our national security, increases the fight against terrorism, and provides for our troops, and I am proud to support it,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=441", "McKinley Votes to Reform Flood Insurance Program, Address Affordability", "2017-11-14", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, the House passed legislation to provide relief to homeowners and businesses dealing with high flood insurance rates. The 21st Century Flood Reform Act makes critical reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, the House passed legislation to provide relief to homeowners and businesses dealing with high flood insurance rates. The 21st Century Flood Reform Act makes critical reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In 2014, flood insurance premiums were skyrocketing, putting an extreme burden on West Virginia families. We listened to our constituents, and passed a three-year fix that lowered rates and brought stability back to the market. Since this first step our office has conducted numerous meetings with homeowners, businesses, and local government representatives to hear their concerns and find solutions to make flood insurance even more affordable, said McKinley. This legislation is a five-year fix that encourages private sector competition by removing red tape, injecting some much-needed competition into the insurance market. It forces the NFIP to recognize the differences between coastal and inland communities when calculating flood insurance premiums. We will no longer tolerate the hard-working citizens of West Virginia subsidizing high-risk coastal property, McKinley said. As these reforms are implemented, we would appreciate hearing from homeowners, added McKinley. That's the only way for us to know if these changes are effective in keeping premiums low. Background  The National Flood Insurance Program was first established as part of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. The 21st Century Flood Reform Act reforms the program and reauthorizes it for a period of five years. Some of the reforms included in the legislation are:  Authorizes $1 billion to mitigate high-risk properties.  Encourages private sector competition by removing hurdles that prevent them from competing with the federal program.  Factors in risk differences between coastal and inland communities when determining premiums.  Provides for community flood maps and streamlines the appeals process.  Addresses repeat flooding properties which account for 2% of federal flood insurance policies, but also account for 25% of insurance claims. In 2014, Congress took initial steps to address the issue of flood insurance affordability. The 21st Century Flood Reform Act is a continuation of these efforts aimed at making permanent reforms that increase accountability and affordability. This legislation is supported by the Trump Administration and a wide range of stakeholders, like the National Association of Realtors. To view the full text of the bill, click here. To view the Amendment offered by Rep. Sean Duffy as a substitute, click here. To view the full text of the 2014 reform legislation, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-and-manchin-announce-more-than-48-million-for-2016-flood-repairs", "Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $4.8 Million for 2016 Flood Repairs", "2017-11-14", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.14.17\n\t\t\t Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $4.8 Million for 2016 Flood Repairs \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) announced $4,822,817 in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation to repair federal roads in Pocahontas, Randolph and Greenbrier counties damaged during the 2016 floods.\n\"Many parts of West Virginia continue to feel the impact of the devastating floods that occurred in June 2016,\"Senator Capito said. \"I have worked diligently at the federal level to ensure our communities have the resources they need to recover and restore a sense of normalcy. This funding will help repair damage to roads that West Virginians rely on to get to work and provide for their families.\nThe 2016 floods brought devastation to West Virginia, but we as a state came together and have been resilient to return our communities to a place of growth and hope, Senator Manchin said. The repairs to these highways will bring back necessary community connections and allow commerce to flow freely across West Virginia so that our state may continue to improve its economy, rebuild our communities, and look to an even brighter future. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for additional resources focused on the economic resilience of our state.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-funding-for-wvu-romney-and-burnsville", "Capito, Manchin Announce Funding for WVU, Romney and Burnsville", "2017-11-14", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.14.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Announce Funding for WVU, Romney and Burnsville \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced a total of $289,300 for West Virginia from the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding will help the communities of Romney and Burnsville purchase vehicles for law enforcement and road safety purposes, and support a West Virginia University (WVU) program to help improve water infrastructure and services in small communities.\nSafe streets and clean water are essential services that West Virginians depend on every day, Senator Capito said. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to see this USDA funding heading to these communities as they work to strengthen safety efforts and improve quality of life in West Virginia communities.\nIt is essential that all West Virginia localities possess the necessary tools to make sure their residents are safe and secure, Senator Manchin said. This financial assistance will help Burnsville and Romney purchase vehicles, giving these communities the peace of mind that comes with knowing that their public officials and emergency responders are adequately equipped to meet the needs of their communities. It will also support West Virginia Universitys efforts to improve water infrastructure in rural Appalachian communities.\nIndividual awards listed below:\r\n \r\n$250,000  West Virginia University: This funding will go towards a collaborative effort by WVU and the University of Kentucky to provide technical assistance to small/rural communities to improve water infrastructure and services.\r\n \r\n \r\n$21,400  City of Romney: This funding will go towards the purchase of a truck for snow removal.\r\n \r\n \r\n$17,900  Town of Burnsville: This funding will go towards the purchase of a police vehicle.\r\n \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-introduce-bill-to-prioritize-funding-for-states-hard-hit-by-opioid-epidemic", "Capito, Manchin Introduce Bill to Prioritize Funding for States Hard Hit by Opioid Epidemic", "2017-11-14", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.14.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Introduce Bill to Prioritize Funding for States Hard Hit by Opioid Epidemic \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bipartisan legislation would change funding formula to target states with greatest need\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) today introduced the Targeted Opioid Formula Act to prioritize federal funding for states that have been hardest hit by the opioid epidemic, including West Virginia. The bill would require the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which operates under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), to take into account mortality rates and lack of access to treatment and services when allocating State Targeted Response Opioid Crisis Grants, rather than making grant determinations for states based on population size.    The opioid crisis has affected lives and communities across the country, but some statesincluding West Virginiahave been hit harder than others, Senator Capito said. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that states dealing with the worst of the drug epidemic are receiving an appropriate share of the resources being provided to fight it. By targeting resources to where theyre needed most, we can make our efforts to fight this epidemic more strategic and more effective.    West Virginia is ground zero in the opioid epidemic and this legislation will ensure that the necessary resources are allocated to help our communities beat this public health crisis, Senator Manchin said. Requiring HHS and SAMHSA to weigh mortality rate and lack of access to services when allocating CURES funding will help ensure that this funding will go to the places that need it most and that our West Virginia communities on the front lines have the support they need to end this epidemic once and for all.    The bipartisan bill would change how federal agencies determine State Targeted Response Opioid Crisis Grant funding for Fiscal Year 2018 to prioritize states like West Virginia, which have the highest mortality rates from opioid overdoses in the nation. This federal grant program was created by the 21st Century Cures Act that was signed into law last year.  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-chairs-subcommittee-hearing-on-regulatory-relief-bills", "VIDEO: Capito Chairs Subcommittee Hearing on Regulatory Relief Bills", "2017-11-14", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.14.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Chairs Subcommittee Hearing on Regulatory Relief Bills \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committees Clean Air and Nuclear Safety Subcommittee, today presided over a hearing examining several pieces of legislationincluding a bill she introduced to provide regulatory relief to wood and pellet heater manufacturers. The bipartisan legislation (S. 1857) would delay implementation of new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) performance standards by three years to allow manufactures the time they need to comply.    Todays hearing also focused on three other regulatory relief bills: the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act of 2017 (S. 203), the Blocking Regulatory Interference from Closing Kilns Act of 2017 (S. 839) and the Alaska Remote Generator Reliability and Protection Act (S. 1934).    The four bills being considered by the committee today are narrowly targeted to simply and easily provide regulatory relief and certainty for industries that will unnecessarily suffer outsized costs from EPA rules and actions, Senator Capito said during her opening remarks. [The] companies affected arent huge multinationals, but American family businesses across the country, their workers and their customers.  \r\n\r\n  For a video of Senator Capitos opening remarks, click here or on the image above. A PDF is available here.    For a video of Senator Capito discussing with witnesses the need for regulatory relief legislation, click here.    More information on the hearing, witness testimony and an archived webcast are available here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-statement-hhs-nominee-alex-azar", "REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON HHS NOMINEE ALEX AZAR", "2017-11-13", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today on the nomination of Alex Azar as the new secretary of Health and Human Services:\n\u201cPresident Trump has prioritized several key health issues, including addressing the opioid crisis and lowering the prices of prescription medications. The opioid epidemic is a public health and safety crisis in West Virginia, and many families and seniors are concerned about the high cost of prescription medications. While Mr. Azar has experience within HHS, his ties to the pharmaceutical industry must be fully reviewed during the confirmation process. West Virginians must know that Mr. Azar is fully committed to supporting the administration\u2019s priorities, including reducing opioid abuse and expanding the affordability of prescription medications.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/this-week-capito-announces-mobile-offices-in-four-west-virginia-counties", "THIS WEEK: Capito Announces Mobile Offices in Four West Virginia Counties", "2017-11-13", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.13.17\n\t\t\t THIS WEEK: Capito Announces Mobile Offices in Four West Virginia Counties \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Meet with Capito staff in Berkeley, Boone, Mingo and Grant counties\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nCHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced new mobile office dates throughout West Virginia for the upcoming week. Members of Senator Capitos staff will be available to provide constituents one-on-one assistance with casework and other issues they may be experiencing with federal agencies. Appointments are not required but are encouraged and can be made by visiting Senator Capitos mobile office page on her website.\nMobile office schedule for November 14-16, 2017:\nTuesday, November 14, 2017\nBerkeley County  11:00 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Marlowe Ruritan Club  2133 Broad Lane  Falling Waters, WV 25419\nWednesday November 15, 2017\nBoone County  11:00 a.m.  12:00 p.m.  Madison Danville Community Center  Lick Creek Road  Danville, WV 25053\nThursday November 16, 2017\nMingo County  11:00 a.m.  12:00 p.m.  Mingo County Personal Care  815 Alderson St.  Williamson, WV 25661\nGrant County  11:30 a.m.  12:30 p.m.  Petersburg Senior Center  111 Virginia Ave.  Petersburg, WV 26847\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-statement-veterans-day-1", "REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON VETERANS DAY", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement in advance of Veterans Day:\n\u201cThis Veterans Day, we remember all of our veterans and thank them for their service. We reflect on the values we cherish and the men and women who have fought to protect our country and our Constitution. All of our veterans have made sacrifices in defense of our nation and our principles, but some have sacrificed all. To each and every veteran, I say thank you and may God bless you.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-statement-wv-energy-announcement", "REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON WV ENERGY ANNOUNCEMENT", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today on news that China Energy will be investing more than $83 billion in West Virginia on shale gas and infrastructure projects:\n\u201cWest Virginia\u2019s energy resources are second to none, and this announcement is wonderful news for our state. I\u2019ve always said that an energy economy is a jobs economy, and we now have a president who is embracing West Virginia\u2019s energy and jobs potential. This shows what we can do when we put our resources to work for us, and I thank Senator Capito, Governor Justice and Congressman McKinley for their leadership. I will work with our state and federal officials to ensure that this agreement will result in unprecedented job growth and investment in West Virginia,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-helps-secure-major-new-investment-in-west-virginia-energy-infrastructure", "Capito Helps Secure Major New Investment in West Virginia Energy Infrastructure", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.09.17\n\t\t\t Capito Helps Secure Major New Investment in West Virginia Energy Infrastructure \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t $83.7 billion investment announced during President Trumps trip to China\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the following statement regarding the West Virginia Department of Commerces announcement thatChina Energy will invest $83.7 billion in major West Virginia shale gas projects. The China Energy announcement was the largest investment in a series of projects totaling a reported $250 billion of total investment in the United States.\nSenator Capito led efforts in Washington to secure this investment in West Virginias energy infrastructure, advocating for it directly with President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and Secretaries Rick Perry and Wilbur Ross. In recent weeks, Senator Capito and her staff worked directly with the West Virginia Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Energy, and the investment announced today is a direct result of a series of meetings and calls Senator Capito had with Secretary Perry and Secretary Ross.\nExpanding Appalachias energy infrastructure, including developing a regional storage hub and market for natural gas liquids, will have a transformative effect on our economy, our security, and our future. From driving growth and creating jobs to maximizing Americas energy potential, the benefits for West Virginia and the country from this new investment will be significant and long-lasting, saidSenator Capito.\nThats why I worked diligently toexpand West Virginia's energy infrastructure andbring this investment to our state, advocating for it with President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Secretaries Perry and Ross. Im excited to continue working with the administration, and state, local and private-sector leaders to keep this effort moving forward.\nSenator Capito has longadvocatedfor the development of an Appalachian natural gas liquids market and has led the effort to establish a regional storage and transportation hub in the region. In 2016, she introduced ameasureto study thefeasibility of this project. In July, when Energy Secretary Perry accepted her invitation to visit West Virginia, Senator Capito made the project a topic of emphasis, convening aroundtable discussionto highlight its benefits. Since then, she has helped coordinate discussions among the Trump administration, state and local officials, business leaders and other stakeholders to attract attention and investment tobolster West Virginia's energy infrastructure.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-manchin-announce-276-million-for-west-virginia-communities", "Capito, Manchin Announce $27.6 Million for West Virginia Communities", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.09.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Manchin Announce $27.6 Million for West Virginia Communities \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced a total of $27,650,000 for West Virginia through the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Office of Rural Development. Funding will go toward improving water and wastewater services in the communities of Moorefield and New Cumberland.    This funding represents a large investment in the development of basic but critical infrastructure in Moorefield and New Cumberland. The projects benefitting from this funding will allow local leaders to better serve their communities and improve the well-being of West Virginians, Senator Capito said.    These infrastructure improvements will allow the communities to provide essential services and spur economic success for all residents who call Moorefield and New Cumberland home, Senator Manchin said. I look forward to watching these projects come to fruition, and I will always work to make sure West Virginia receivesnecessary support from the federal government to continue to thrive as a state.    Individual awards listed below:\r\n \r\nCity of New Cumberland:\r\n\r\n$1,766,000 in loan funding.\r\n$655,000 in grant funding.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\nTown of Moorefield:\r\n\r\n$16,879,000 in loan funding.\r\n$8,350,000 in grant funding.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-stabenow-lead-bipartisan-letter-urging-focus-on-alzheimers-in-women", "Capito, Stabenow Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging Focus on Alzheimers in Women", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.09.17\n\t\t\t Capito, Stabenow Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging Focus on Alzheimers in Women \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) this week led a bipartisan group of female senators in sending a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to address the effects of Alzheimers and related dementia, particularly on women.    Dementia effects more women than men, and while we do not know why, we know that two-thirds of the 5 million seniors with Alzheimers disease are women. Additionally, two-thirds of family caregivers are women, and 19% have left paying jobs to provide unpaid care for a loved one, the senators wrote in the letter to HHS Acting Secretary Eric Hargan. So, we, as women leaders in Congress and as supporters of women, are making fighting back against dementia a national priority.    We urge you to join us in meeting the Alzheimers crisis head-on, they continued. Together we can improve the lives of millions of American women by reducing the high cost of dementia and better supporting the needs of those with dementia and their caregivers.    As the department responsible for implementing the National Alzheimers Project Act (NAPA), the senators asked that HHS prioritize a number of items in its ongoing summits and planning process, including funding for research, sex-based research, economic impact, diagnosis and treatment, and brain health.    Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) also signed the letter.    Led by Senators Capito and Stabenow, the women of the Senate haven taken an important stand, calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to address the needs of women as the primary victims of Alzheimers, said Jill Lesser, president of WomenAgainstAlzheimers. As an advocate for women, a daughter, caregiver and mother, I know that 80 percent of the financial and health burdens of Alzheimers fall on women, who are two-thirds of the caregivers and patients today. As our society ages, Alzheimers is a crisis for women that must be urgently addressed.    Alzheimers disease is costing our nation money, time, and ultimately the lives of our loved ones and women are bearing the greatest burden as victims and caregivers, said George Vradenburg, chairman and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimers. I applaud Senator Capitos tireless leadership in the fight against Alzheimers and her efforts to improve the lives of the millions of women living with and caring for a loved one with dementia.    Senators Capito and Stabenow previously worked together to introduce the Health Outcomes, Planning, and Education (HOPE) for Alzheimers Act and the Alzheimers Beneficiary and Caregiver Support Act. During her time in Congress, Senator Capito has also introduced other legislation related to Alzheimers diseaseincluding the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Actand as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, she continues working to secure funding for Alzheimers research.    The full letter to HHS is below, and a PDF is available here.    The Honorable Eric D. Hargan  Acting Secretary, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services  Hubert H. Humphrey Building  200 Independence Avenue, S.W.  Washington, D.C. 20201    Dear Acting Secretary Hargan,    As the Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which implements the ongoing National Alzheimers Project Act (NAPA), we urge you to address the effects of Alzheimers and related dementia, particularly on women. Dementia costs Americans time  healthy years from their lives  and money, in the form of care, lost productivity and medical needs. In 2017, the direct costs of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia will be an estimated $259 billion. Much of this is privately funded by American families, unpaid caregivers and people living with the condition.    Overall, women bear the greatest burden of this cost. Dementia effects more women than men, and while we do not know why, we know that two-thirds of the 5 million seniors with Alzheimers disease are women. Additionally, two-thirds of family caregivers are women, and 19% have left paying jobs to provide unpaid care for a loved one. So, we, as women leaders in Congress and as supporters of women, are making fighting back against dementia a national priority.    In order to respond quickly and decisively to Alzheimers and related dementias, we ask that NAPA prioritize the following items in its ongoing summits and planning process:  \r\nFunding for research: There is bi-partisan consensus that funding our National Institutes of Health is critical for curing and treating our nation's worst diseases. Alzheimer's is perhaps our greatest challenge today - there is no disease-modifying treatment and no drug has been approved by the FDA for more than a decade. Greater NIH funding for Alzheimers research is critical to finding a cure.    Sex-Based Research: With 4.2 million women suffering today, sex-based studies must be a research priority and studies should be designed, analyzed and reported by sex. In the case of women of Latina or African-American backgrounds, differences in prevalence are particularly stark. We must understand the communities at greatest risk for dementia and ensure that future treatments are available and accessible.    Economic Impact: We must mend social support, medical, and workplace systems to ease the costs of dementia to the US economy, the government, and to individuals and families.    Diagnosis and Treatment: People with dementia need to be diagnosed as early as possible to support clinical research, receive critical care interventions and to help them plan for the future. Early detection must be made a priority to health care providers, with Medicare policies leading the way.    Brain Health: Reducing the risk of dementia could prevent nearly 1/3 of cases, and vastly reduce the associated costs. Public health education and leadership are needed to raise awareness of what can be done to reduce dementia risk.\r\n  We urge you to join us in meeting the Alzheimers crisis head-on. Together we can improve the lives of millions of American women by reducing the high cost of dementia and better supporting the needs of those with dementia and their caregivers.    As you consider these requests and the impact Alzheimers disease has on women, we would request that you provide a response to us detailing how the Department will address these concerns in subsequent iterations of the National Plan to Address Alzheimers Disease, including specific strategies and milestones you will take to address the burden of Alzheimers on women.  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-senate-tax-reform-proposal", "Capito Statement on Senate Tax Reform Proposal", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.09.17\n\t\t\t Capito Statement on Senate Tax Reform Proposal \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement regarding the Senate tax reform proposal released today:    Today, Senate Republicans took an important and bold step forward in delivering the pro-growth tax reform our country needs. For West Virginians and so many Americans across the country, the status quo just isnt working, and this is our opportunity to change it. Thats why we are working to provide relief for working families, help small businesses expand and succeed, and spark the kind of growth that can truly transform our economy.    As the proposal continues to move forward through an open and transparent process and comes to the Senate floor, I encourage my Democrat colleagues to put aside their misguided rhetoric; stop the political theatrics; and join President Trump, Republicans in Congress, and the majority of Americans who want a better tax system. The train is leaving the station. Its time to get on board.  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-capito-legislation-making-sexual-harassment-training-mandatory", "Senate Passes Capito Legislation Making Sexual Harassment Training Mandatory", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.09.17\n\t\t\t Senate Passes Capito Legislation Making Sexual Harassment Training Mandatory \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-N.V.) passed the Senate, mandating that sexual harassment training will be mandatory for senators, staff and interns of the Senate.    The legislation is cosponsored by Rules Committee members Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Angus King (I-Maine), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.).    Sexual harassment has no place in our society, in the workplace, and certainly not in the United States Senate, Senator Capito said. Whether an elected official or staff, anyone working in Congress has a responsibility to set an example for others and create nothing less than an appropriate and respectful work environment. Thats exactly why we introduced this bipartisan resolution, and Im glad our colleagues came together so quickly to show their support and pass it.    The training would need to be completed within 60 days from the date of passage of the legislation, and repeated no less than once each Congress. The legislation also includes anti-harassment training for protected categories such as race, disability, religion, national origin and military service. Each employing office in the Senate would be required to submit a certification of completed training, which would be published on the public website of the Secretary of the Senate.    The full text of the bipartisan legislation is available here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-honors-americas-veterans", "VIDEO: Capito Honors Americas Veterans", "2017-11-09", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.09.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Honors Americas Veterans \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t**Download the video here**\r\n\r\nClick here or the image above to watch the video.\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released a video statement ahead of Veterans Day this Saturday, November 11.\nFull video transcript included below:\nOn Veterans Day, we are reminded of the tremendous sacrifice so many make for our country.\nOur servicemen and women selflessly put their lives at risk to protect our way of life, defend our freedoms and ensure our nation remains a beacon of freedom for all.\nAs the daughter of a World War II veteran, the well-being of our veterans is something I hold close to my heart.\nToday and every day, I remain committed to delivering the resources they need, helping them receive the care they deserve and making sure their voices are heard.\nPlease join me today in thanking all of our veterans for their sacrifice, their bravery and their service to our great nation.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-green-bank-remains-key-asset-west-virginia", "REP. JENKINS: GREEN BANK REMAINS KEY ASSET FOR WEST VIRGINIA", "2017-11-08", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today on the National Science Foundation\u2019s draft report on the future of the Green Bank Observatory:\n\u201cGreen Bank Observatory is an outstanding resource not only for West Virginia but the larger scientific community. As Green Bank advances our understanding of our universe, there is still a role for the National Science Foundation and federal funding to play. I strongly support Green Bank and its employees and urge the NSF not to give up on this critical resource. I am working closely with the agency and interested parties to preserve the Green Bank Observatory as an educational and scientific resource for West Virginians,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.\nPlease click here to read the NSF\u2019s draft environmental impact statement. The draft report recommends collaborating with interested parties for science- and education-focused operations with reduced NSF funding.\nWest Virginians have several ways to make their voices heard on the future of the Green Bank Observatory.\nA public comment meeting will be held from 5-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Green Bank Science Center, 155 Observatory Road, Green Bank, W.Va. 24915\nThe NSF will accept public comments on the draft report for the next 60 days. Comments may be emailed to envcomp-AST-greenbank@nsf.gov, with the subject line Green Bank Observatory. Letters mail also be mailed to the NSF via Ms. Elizabeth Pentecost, RE: Green Bank Observatory, 2415 Eisenhower Ave., Suite W9152, Alexandria, Va. 22314.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-and-manchin-announce-more-than-34m-for-rural-development-projects", "Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $3.4M for Rural Development Projects", "2017-11-08", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.08.17\n\t\t\t Capito and Manchin Announce More Than $3.4M for Rural Development Projects \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  Today U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) announced $3,439,000 in loan and grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA) Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants. This funding will assist in improvements to the water treatment facility in Philippi and the Sanity Sewer System in Spencer.\nAccess to basic services is important for the well-being of West Virginians, said Senator Capito. Federal funding for infrastructure projects allows local leaders to improve these services, and contributes to economic growth in our communities. I will continue to fight for funding that maintains a high quality-of-life for West Virginians.\nImproving the infrastructure of rural West Virginia is vital to ensuring the economic success of both the local businesses and public facilities of the region, said Senator Manchin. These investments are an indication to the residents of Spencer and Philippi that their hard-work to improve West Virginia is noticed, and Im excited to witness the benefits that come as a result of the projects.\nThe Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas. Eligible areas are rural areas and towns with populations of 10,000 or less.\nIndividual awards listed below:\n$704,000  Loan to the City of Spencer to make improvements to the Spencer Sanity Sewer System including the correction of inflow and infiltration sources pertaining to the western portion of the collective system and improvements to the wastewater treatment works including equipment replacement.\n$1,735,000  Loan to the City of Philippi to replace four of the City's water storage tanks and construct one new water storage tank, as well as installing security fencing around all of the water storage tanks.\n$1,000,000  Grant to the City of Philippi to replace four of the City's water storage tanks and construct one new water storage tank, as well as installing security fencing around all of the water storage tanks.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-green-bank-observatory-study", "Capito Statement on Green Bank Observatory Study", "2017-11-08", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.08.17\n\t\t\t Capito Statement on Green Bank Observatory Study \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C.  Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement about the National Science Foundations (NSF) Draft Environmental Impact Statement for West Virginias Green Bank Observatory. The statement recommends that Green Bank seek collaboration with outside entities and partners to fulfill its science and education mission.NSF will host a public meeting on November 30, 2017 to discuss its recommendations with the local community.\nThe Green Bank Observatory is a national treasure that helps to foster discovery and inspire future generations to pursue science.As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have supported its continued operations and worked with the National Science Foundation every step of the way as this study was being developed. I will continue to advocate for Green Bank, the talented scientists who work there, and the students it inspires, Senator Capito said.\nNSF will hold a public meeting to discuss its recommendations on November 30, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. at Green Bank Science Center, 155 Observatory Road, Green Bank, WV.\nBackground:Last year, NSF announced it would conduct an environmental impact statement process to evaluate potential environmental impacts associated with proposed changes to operations at Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia. To read the full statement, click here.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-we-are-going-to-go-big-and-bold-on-tax-reform", "Capito: We Are Going to Go Big and Bold on Tax Reform", "2017-11-08", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.08.17\n\t\t\t Capito: We Are Going to Go Big and Bold on Tax Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Policymakers, White House, conservative groups unite behind tax reform effort\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) yesterday joined other Senate Republicans, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Counselor to the President Kellyanne Conway and tax reform advocates for an event to highlight the need for pro-growth tax reform. Representatives from the National Taxpayers Union, Americans for Tax Reform, Heritage Action and Americans for Prosperity all participated in the event, signaling broad support for Senate efforts to reform the tax code.    I do believe this is a moment in time for us. We have the opportunity to make a real difference in so many lives across our country, Senator Capito said at the event. This is our moment. We are going to go big and bold, and I think we are as united as Ive seen us.  \r\n\r\n  In August, Senator Capito hosted Secretary Mnuchin in Parkersburg and convened a small business roundtable to discuss how comprehensive tax reform will benefit middle-class families and small businesses. During yesterdays event, she shared stories from the discussion, detailing ways tax reform will help create jobs and raise wages in West Virginia.    For a video of Senator Capitos remarks, click here or on the image above. To view a video of the entire event, click here.  \r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-statement-cardinal-health-ceo-resignation", "REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON CARDINAL HEALTH CEO RESIGNATION", "2017-11-07", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement regarding the news that Cardinal Health CEO George Barrett is stepping down:\n\u201cCardinal Health and their executives must be held accountable for their role in the opioid crisis ravaging West Virginia and other states. Pharmaceutical companies like Cardinal Health under Barrett\u2019s leadership shipped millions of pain pills to West Virginia, fueling addiction and a public health crisis. Instead of blaming institutions like Lily\u2019s Place for the drug crisis, drug executives need to take responsibility for what they have done to West Virginia.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-urges-west-virginians-to-test-broadband-speeds", "VIDEO: Capito Urges West Virginians to Test Broadband Speeds", "2017-11-07", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.07.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Urges West Virginians to Test Broadband Speeds \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  As part of her Capito Connect plan, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) is calling on all West Virginians to take the West Virginia Speed Test hosted by the Broadband Enhancement Council.\nIs your internet connection up to speed? To create more opportunities for the next generation of West Virginians, I am leading the charge to bring internet service to our state, and we are making real progress through my Capito Connect plan, said Senator Capito. In order to solve this problem, we need to know how your service lines up  and thats why Im urging all West Virginians to take the West Virginia Speed Test. By participating, you will help improve access to reliable and affordable broadband.\nIn just a matter of minutes, West Virginians can test their internet service at https://broadband.wv.gov/Home/SpeedTest. Senator Capito is encouraging West Virginians to share their results via email to capitoconnect@capito.senate.govor through her office at one of the locations below:\nCHARLESTON, WV500 E Virginia St.  Suite 950  Charleston, WV 25301  Phone: (304) 347-5372\nMARTINSBURG, WV300 Foxcroft Ave.  Suite 202A  Martinsburg, WV 25401  Phone: (304) 262-9285\nMORGANTOWN, WV48 Donley St.  Suite 504  Morgantown, WV 26501  Phone: (304) 292-2310\nBECKLEY, WV220 N Kanawha St.  Suite 1  Beckley, WV 25801  Phone: (304) 347-5372\r\n\r\n**To view the video, click here or the image above****To download the video, click here**\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=848", "Reps. McKinley & DeGette Introduce National Energy Policy Legislation", "2017-11-06", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, U.S. Reps. David McKinley, P.E. (R-WV-1) and Diana DeGette (D-CO-1) introduced bipartisan legislation that would create a commission to develop a comprehensive energy policy for the United States. \r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, U.S. Reps. David McKinley, P.E. (R-WV-1) and Diana DeGette (D-CO-1) introduced bipartisan legislation that would create a commission to develop a comprehensive energy policy for the United States. For too long we have lacked a coherent energy policy, which has negatively impacted our economy and made the U.S. less secure. The creation of this Commission will allow leaders from various field including labor organizations, utilities, energy researchers, environmental advocates, utilities, and economists to develop a comprehensive energy policy, said McKinley. This commission will seek to develop a national energy plan that creates jobs, grows our economy, and puts us on the path to energy independence, which strengthens our national security. We often disagree on a lot of issues in Congress, but it is important to reach across the aisle to find common ground. I'm proud to have worked with Congresswoman DeGette on this important legislation, McKinley said. It's still possible to get important things done in Washington, even in the midst of partisan rancor and gridlock, DeGette said. Everyone should agree that energy development is key to our country's economic strength: It drives innovation and job creation. And most experts agree that to tackle climate change, we need to embrace new approaches. This bill will help unify efforts to shape the future of national and global energy policy. Background onBiennial Energy Commission on Energy Policy Act of 2017 Reps. McKinley and DeGette have introduced legislation to create the Energy Commission before in 2013 (H.R. 3565) and 2016 (H.R. 4929). The purposes of the Commission:  Establish a national bipartisan commission on energy policy composed of 15 members from a range of backgrounds appointed by Congress.  To examine and evaluate all current laws, regulations and policies of the Federal government pertaining to energy, energy efficiency, sources of energy (including fossil fuels, wind, water and nuclear), and power sources.  Develop recommendations for future laws, regulations and policy to assist America achieve energy independence. Report to the President and Congress on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective measures that can be taken to create a comprehensive national energy policy for the United States.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-broadband-is-a-necessity-for-west-virginia-students-and-businesses", "Capito: Broadband Is a Necessity for West Virginia Students and Businesses", "2017-11-06", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.06.17\n\t\t\t Capito: Broadband Is a Necessity for West Virginia Students and Businesses \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t New USDA grant will connect 3,600 households, businesses and community facilities in Barbour, Randolph and Upshur counties\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nBUCKHANNON, W.Va.  Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) met with local officials at Buckhannon-Upshur High School and discussed how broadband can help students with educational and career opportunities. Senator Capito was joined by Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Central West Virginia Development Association recently received $3 million from USDA to provide broadband to more than 3,600 households, businesses and community facilities in Barbour, Randolph and Upshur counties.\nThe availability of high-speed internet is an absolute necessity for West Virginia students and businesses to be able to compete in a global digital economy, Senator Capito said at Mondays event. Through my Capito Connect plan, I have led the effort to expand broadband infrastructure and bridge the digital divide in our state. This investment by USDA is a critical step in connecting West Virginia, and I cant wait to see the opportunities that will result from this project. I will continue working to provide similar opportunities across the state because if given the tools, West Virginians can compete with anyone.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-introduces-legislation-to-create-health-infrastructure-to-combat-alzheimers-disease", "Capito Introduces Legislation to Create Health Infrastructure to Combat Alzheimers Disease", "2017-11-06", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.06.17\n\t\t\t Capito Introduces Legislation to Create Health Infrastructure to Combat Alzheimers Disease \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) today introduced the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimers Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a public health infrastructure to combat Alzheimers disease and preserve brain health. Representatives Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) and Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) introduced a companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.    Alzheimers is such a devastating disease that affects millions of Americas and their loved ones, and the more we can do to find a cure, the better. At the same time, we must also do what we can to ease the pain of those suffering and provide help to caregivers, taking a truly comprehensive approach to this fight, Senator Capito said. By creating a public health infrastructure, this bipartisan legislation will help us tackle Alzheimers on all fronts and move us closer to finding a cure.    The legislation would apply a public health approach to Alzheimers disease by establishing a modern infrastructure for the prevention, treatment and care of Alzheimers and related dementias. Headed by the Centers of Disease and Prevention (CDC), it would create:  \r\n \r\nCenters of Excellence in Public Health Practice dedicated to promoting effective Alzheimers disease and caregiving interventions, as well as educating the public on Alzheimers disease, cognitive decline and brain health. The centers would implement the CDCs Healthy Aging Public Health Road Map and would take key steps to support health and social services professionals, as well as families and communities. This bill would authorize $12 million for centers across the nation.\r\n \r\n \r\nCore Capacity and Enhanced Activity Cooperative Agreements with the CDC would be awarded to State Health Departments to carry out key steps. Core capacity awards would help states build a foundation, and enhanced activity awards would help those states that are carrying out public health Alzheimers steps to amplify their initiatives through public-private partnerships. $20 million would be authorized for this process.\r\n \r\n \r\nData Analysis and Reporting Cooperative Agreements with CDC would ensure that data on Alzheimers, cognitive decline, caregiving, and health disparities are analyzed and disseminated to the public in a timely manner. This legislation authorizes $5 million for such agreements.\r\n \r\n  The BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimers Act is supported by the Alzheimers Association, Alzheimers Impact Movement, National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, and the National Association of Counties.    For a one-pager on the bill, click here.    To read the full text of the bill click here.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/this-week-capito-announces-mobile-offices-in-three-west-virginia-counties", "THIS WEEK: Capito Announces Mobile Offices in Three West Virginia Counties", "2017-11-06", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.06.17\n\t\t\t THIS WEEK: Capito Announces Mobile Offices in Three West Virginia Counties \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Meet with Capito staff in Wyoming, Wood and Mason Counties\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nCHARLESTON, W.Va.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced new mobile office dates throughout West Virginia for the upcoming week. Members of Senator Capitos staff will be available to provide constituents one-on-one assistance with casework and other issues they may be experiencing with federal agencies. Appointments are not required but are encouraged and can be made by visiting Senator Capitos mobile office page on her website.\nMobile office schedule for November 7-9, 2017:\nTuesday, November 7, 2017\nWyoming County  12:00 p.m.  1:00 p.m.  Oceana City Hall  1285 Cook Parkway  Oceana, WV 24870\nWednesday, November 8, 2017\nWood County  11:00 a.m.  12:00 p.m.  Vienna Senior Center  706 29th St.  Vienna, WV 26105\nThursday, November 9, 2017\nMason County  11:00 a.m.  12:00 p.m.  Mason County Action Group  101 2nd St.  Point Pleasant, WV 25550\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-outlines-benefits-of-increasing-energy-infrastructure-in-west-virginia", "VIDEO: Capito Outlines Benefits of Increasing Energy Infrastructure in West Virginia", "2017-11-06", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.06.17\n\t\t\t VIDEO: Capito Outlines Benefits of Increasing Energy Infrastructure in West Virginia \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Continues push to establish regional ethane storage hub\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \nWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today continued her push to help establish a natural gas liquid storage and transportation hub in Appalachia. Speaking on the Senate floor, Senator Capito outlined how expanding energy infrastructure in West Virginia would help grow and diversify the states economy, create jobs and improve national security.    New drilling technologies have unlocked access to trillions upon trillions of cubic feet of natural gas and their associated liquids in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky. Unpredicted just a decade ago, this asset can create a renaissance in the regions petrochemical industry, but this can only happen if policymakers and the private sector seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity, Senator Capito said. I will continue my advocacy for this enormous economic development opportunity and encourage my colleagues to join as partners in this effort.  \r\n  \r\nFor a video of Senator Capitos full remarks, click here or on the image above.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-congratulates-warner-on-usda-state-director-appointment", "Capito Congratulates Warner on USDA State Director Appointment", "2017-11-04", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.04.17\n\t\t\t Capito Congratulates Warner on USDA State Director Appointment \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) issued the below statement following President Donald Trumps appointment of Kristian Kris Warner to serve as West Virginia state director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Rural Development.    As an entrepreneur, small business owner and community leader, Kris has played an important role in West Virginias economic growth and development. He has worked successfully with other public- and private-sector leaders to improve our communities and build stronger, more diverse local economies. I think Kris is an excellent choice to lead USDAs rural development efforts in our state, and I know he will continue to deliver for West Virginians.\r\n\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-supports-chip-reauthorization", "REP. JENKINS SUPPORTS CHIP REAUTHORIZATION", "2017-11-03", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) today helped pass a five-year reauthorization of the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program, known as CHIP.\nThe legislation, the Championing Healthy Kids Act, passed the House 242-174 and now heads to the Senate. The bill also reauthorizes Federal Qualified Health Centers (community health centers) and the National Health Service Corps, among other programs.\n\u201cI strongly support the CHIP program, which helps thousands of West Virginia children stay healthy. West Virginia has enough funding for CHIP through March 2018, but we need to reauthorize this important program quickly to provide certainty for families across West Virginia. This legislation also reauthorizes our community health centers, vital primary care providers for many West Virginians. These programs work, and I urge the Senate to act immediately to pass this important bill,\u201d Rep. Jenkins said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-president-trumps-tax-vision-is-the-right-one-for-west-virginia", "Capito: President Trumps Tax Vision Is the Right One for West Virginia", "2017-11-03", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Shelley Capito", "C001047", "www.capito.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.03.17\n\t\t\t Capito: President Trumps Tax Vision Is the Right One for West Virginia \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.  U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today released the following statement about the need to pass comprehensive tax reform:\nPresident Trumps tax vision is the right one for West Virginiaand anyone who says otherwise has it wrong. Tax reform will help the roughly half of American families who are living paycheck to paycheck. It will give them money to make ends meet now and save for the future. President Trump knows thisand I look forward to working with him and my colleagues to deliver this change to West Virginians. Those who oppose tax reform are defending a status quo that isnt working for West Virginia families.\nYesterday, Senator Capito delivered the fifth in a series of Senate floor speeches on the benefits of comprehensive pro-growth tax reformillustrating how simplifying the tax code will provide relief for middle-class families, save West Virginians time and money, and free up resources to grow the economy.\r\n\r\nFor a video of Senator Capitos full remarks, click here or on the image above.\r\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://evanjenkins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-jenkins-tax-cuts-will-help-west-virginians-keep-more-their-money", "REP. JENKINS: TAX CUTS WILL HELP WEST VIRGINIANS KEEP MORE OF THEIR MONEY, CREATE MORE JOBS", "2017-11-02", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "Evan Jenkins", "J000297", "evanjenkins.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Representative Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement today after House Republicans unveiled the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, landmark tax reform legislation:\n\u201cPresident Trump has made tax reform one of his top priorities, and for good reason. Our current tax code costs us jobs, keeps money out of people\u2019s pockets, and holds back our small businesses. Many West Virginians are struggling after our state\u2019s economic downturn, and they deserve to keep more of what they earn.\n\u201cUnder our tax cuts plan, we\u2019ll unleash West Virginia\u2019s economic potential, create jobs, and put more money back into the pockets of hardworking West Virginians. We will simplify the tax code so many families can file their taxes on just a postcard. I hope the House and the Senate will pass tax cuts and tax simplification quickly to help West Virginia\u2019s families and small businesses.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://mckinley.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=333", "McKinley Protects Seniors' Access to Healthcare", "2017-11-02", "2017", "2017-11", "Republican", "House", "WV", "David McKinley", "M001180", "mckinley.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) voted to eliminate the Medicare rationing board established under Obamacare. The Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) was a controversial feature of President Obama's healthcare plan.\r\n          share:\r\n          f \r\n          t \r\n        \r\n      \r\n      Today, Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1) voted to eliminate the Medicare rationing board established under Obamacare. The Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) was a controversial feature of President Obama's healthcare plan. To save costs, Obamacare's rationing board could limit payments to doctors for life-saving treatments, potentially affecting seniors with cancer, dementia, or any number of serious health concerns. Our seniors deserve better than to be treated like budget line items by unelected bureaucrats. Today's vote to repeal this harmful policy fulfills a promise to West Virginia families and protects our seniors,' said McKinley. H.R. 849, the Protecting Seniors' Access to Medicare Act, would eliminate IPAB, a panel designed to ration care under Obamacare. 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