{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"IA\" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-judiciary-committee-progress-report-114th-congress", "Senate Judiciary Committee Progress Report for the 114th Congress", "2016-12-29", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley released the final progress report on the committee\u2019s actions during the 114th Congress.\u00a0 Upon becoming Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee at the start of this Congress, Grassley pledged that he would strive to be fair while restoring the committee\u2019s role as a \u201ctrue check on the massive and powerful federal bureaucracy.\u201d In the following two years, the Senate Judiciary Committee has been working in a largely bipartisan fashion to meet these goals.\u00a0 The committee, under Grassley\u2019s leadership, has far surpassed its legislative productivity in the previous Congress. \u00a0The committee reported to the Senate 30 bills, all with bipartisan support, and 24 of the 30 bills reported out of committee have been passed by the full Senate with 17 of those bills becoming law.\u00a0 Grassley\u2019s longstanding focus on oversight has renewed the committee\u2019s focus on ensuring accountability and transparency in government as mandated by the Constitution.\u00a0The full report can be found here.\u00a0 -30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/12-photos-2016", "12 photos from 2016", "2016-12-26", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Friends,\nThroughout the\u00a0year I\u2019ve had many wonderful opportunities to meet with and listen to you and your neighbors, the folks I am humbled to represent.\u00a0As 2016 comes to a close, I\u00a0wanted to share with you a photo from each month -\u00a0every\u00a0image\u00a0depicts a moment from a\u00a0fantastic year working for Iowans of the Third Congressional District.\nJANUARY\nJack Oberman, an Iowa Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy, was my guest to the president\u2019s State of the Union address this January. Before the address,\u00a0during which\u00a0the president outlined his vision for 2016 to members of Congress, I had the opportunity to show Jack a bit of the historic building that houses the legislative branch: the U.S. Capitol.\nFEBRUARY\nI led a roundtable discussion alongside the Iowa Farm Bureau for Iowa farmers, agricultural producers, transportation industry leaders, and other key Iowa stakeholders to talk directly with representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Transportation about the need for a long term agriculture-transportation strategy. Our conversation provided an opportunity for members of our community\u00a0to share their feedback, concerns and ideas directly with the federal agencies who can play a big role in helping and restraining our agricultural economy.\nMARCH\nEach year, I host Coffee with My Congressman meetings in all 16 counties of the Third Congressional District. Whether in Truro or Hamburg, Urbandale (pictured above), Macedonia, or elsewhere, the folks I met with voiced their ideas, concerns and opinions about many issues of great importance to our state and our country. I enjoy these meetings, for democracy is a two way street, and it is through ongoing conversations that I am best able to represent the Third Congressional District.\n\u00a0APRIL\n\u00a0\nEach month I make it my mission to meet with and listen to Iowans in all 16 counties of the Third Congressional District. During a visit to Glenwood High School, I had a nice time speaking with students about my role in Congress and\u00a0answering their questions. I also spent time spent talking with Iowa's young leaders this year during other visits, including school tours,\u00a0the annual Youth Leadership Summit I host, and visits from school groups to my office in our nation's capital.\n\u00a0MAY\n\u00a0\nI visited\u00a0Bondurant-Farrar High School to\u00a0surprise the winner of this year's Third Congressional District Congressional Art Competition, tenth grader Kallan Paulsen, before her classmates and teachers. Kallan\u2019s artwork,\u00a0\u201cThe Smirk,\u201d was displayed this year in the U.S. Capitol Building for members of Congress and visitors from all over the world.\nJUNE\n\u00a0\nI enjoyed visiting with the Spencer family from Waukee in my Washington, D.C. office,\u00a0and reminding them of all of the different services my office offers to Iowans in the Third Congressional District. They stopped by for a meeting before taking a tour of the U.S. Capitol building with a member of my Washington, D.C. staff.\n\u00a0JULY\nI organized and hosted Iowa Senior Wellness and Security Expos in Des Moines, Creston and Council Bluffs. These expos were three unique and valuable opportunities providing Iowa seniors with a one-stop-shop of federal, state, and local resources. We had a great turnout at each event, and I enjoyed and appreciated meeting with everyone who attended!\n\u00a0AUGUST\n\u00a0\nI hosted my second annual Veterans Care Fairs in Des Moines and Treynor to provide Iowa veterans and their families with information and resources about benefits, programs and services available to them. Members of my staff were in attendance to remind folks of the constituent services we offer, including help with veterans\u2019 benefits, assistance in dealing with federal government agencies, and much more. To honor living and deceased Vietnam Era Veterans and their families, I organized Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemorations featuring veteran and former Iowa Congressman Leonard Boswell. These commemorations included a presentation of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of our national anthem, and special remarks.\n\u00a0SEPTEMBER\nThe Mahlstadt family from Indianola joined me in my Washington, D.C. office to receive the 2016 Angels in Adoption award, a distinction for which I nominated them in August. I first got to know the Mahlstadts when my office assisted navigating difficulties they encountered while adopting their daughters, and they are more than deserving of this honorable award.\n\u00a0OCTOBER\nFall is an extraordinary season here in Iowa, and I conducted my annual \u201cBringing in the Harvest\u201d agriculture tour in October to meet with our busy and hardworking farmers during harvest time, and thank them for all of the remarkable work they do to feed and fuel the world. It was an honor to have Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey join, and we made a number of stops throughout the Third Congressional District, including a visit to the Randolph family farm\u00a0(pictured above).\n\u00a0NOVEMBER\nEvery November 11th, we recognize those who have answered our nation\u2019s call to service and honor the sacrifices of all our nation\u2019s veterans. This year I spoke with veterans, service members, and their families at Veterans Day events in Shenandoah (pictured above) and Hamburg, and reiterated my commitment to ensuring our veterans, service members, and families have access to the services and resources they need.\n\u00a0DECEMBER\nI visited with folks at\u00a0an American Red Cross event to talk about the different ways Congress is working to ensure our\u00a0service members\u00a0and veterans have the resources and support they need.\u00a0It\u00a0was an honor to recognize our service members and write holiday cards to those serving overseas, thanking them for all they do for our country.\u00a0\nTake care.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/qa-people%E2%80%99s-business", "Q&A:  The Peoples Business", "2016-12-23", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With U.S. Senator Chuck GrassleyQ:\u00a0 What are some highlights from the 114th Congress?A:\u00a0 When visiting with Iowans during my 99-county meetings, I hear a common refrain from people across the state.\u00a0 Households are working harder than ever to get ahead and stay ahead. Putting gas in the car, buying groceries and medicine, shouldering student debt, absorbing double-digit insurance premiums and saving for retirement contribute to the troubled mindset among working families who are scraping to get by from paycheck to paycheck. And when taxpayers are reminded about the $19 trillion federal debt and their exposure to waste, fraud and abuse running rampant in the federal bureaucracy, it strikes a raw nerve. As Iowa\u2019s watchdog, I make it my business to hold government to account and work for openness and transparency whenever and wherever the federal bureaucracy conducts the people\u2019s business. For 36 years straight, I\u2019ve listened to Iowans in every county, at least once, every year. Throughout 2016, Iowans shared their concerns about emerging threats to public safety and national security, the growing size and scope of the federal government \u2013 from Obamacare to Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) and restoring the American Dream for generations to come. The bigger Washington\u2019s bite, from cumbersome taxes to burdensome regulations and abusive government surveillance, it seems the more that personal freedoms are on the line. Just as importantly, policymakers entrusted with the public good must uphold the integrity of our justice system, our system of free enterprise and the rule of law to ensure fairness, security, certainty and stability on our streets, in our schools and throughout our communities and to foster growth in the U.S. economy, from agriculture to housing, banking, pharmaceuticals, clean energy and trade.From my leadership position as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I work to uphold core principles of our republic relative to life in 21st century American society. Many Iowans know that I place a high priority on government oversight and whistleblower protections. During the 114th Congress, I continued aggressive oversight of the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs and the FBI, for example, to expose and correct wrongdoing. I secured authority for Inspectors General, the internal watchdogs tasked with conducting audits and investigations from within federal agencies, to access all agency records, not just those presented by department heads. Transparency is the best way to clean house and sweep away misconduct that, for example, contributed to scandalous wait times for veterans and allowed for the political targeting of taxpayers at the IRS to take root. To that end, I led the FOIA Improvement Act through the Senate that aims to prevent the executive branch from keeping the people\u2019s business out of the public eye through excessive exemptions that lead to expensive litigation at taxpayers\u2019 expense.Americans have every right to expect the government to work for them, such as making sure that standards of care are followed in taxpayer-funded nursing homes, that laws against sexual assault and human trafficking are enforced and that free market principles work to keep drug prices down and innovation up in the pharmaceutical industry.\u00a0 Along those lines, I\u2019ll continue my crusade in the Senate to fight fraud, restore good government and ensure compliance and enforcement within our system of checks and balances. For example, my advocacy for whistleblowers benefits the taxpaying public and Federal Treasury. In fact, my amendments reforming the False Claims Act have recouped more than $53 billion that otherwise would have been lost to fraud. In other examples, taxpayers should not foot the bill for the misuse of paid administrative leave that idles federal workers indefinitely, nor should they be put on the hook for misclassified pharmaceuticals under the Medicaid Drug Rebate program. Specifically, at the behest of Iowa families strained by steep price hikes for their children\u2019s EpiPens, I have learned that taxpayers may have been overcharged by hundreds of millions of dollars for this particular drug administered under federal programs. I will continue to keep my nose to the grindstone to prevent misconduct from being swept under the rug.When Washington works together for the common good, good things can happen. Unlike the partisan vote for Obamacare, the 114th Congress adopted landmark bipartisan laws to address the opioid epidemic (CARA) and to advance cures and treatments for chronic diseases affecting millions of Americans with passage of the $6 billion 21 Century CURES Act.\u00a0  \u00a0  Q:\u00a0 What\u2019s in store for the 115th Congress starting in January?A:\u00a0 The first order of business is opening day of the new session. On Tuesday, Jan. 3, I will be sworn in for my seventh term representing the people of Iowa. I look forward to leveraging my advocacy for Rural America, from agriculture, to health care, renewable energy and flood protection. We have unfinished business to consider, such as repealing and replacing Obamacare, as well as opening up work on a new farm bill and enforcing immigration policy. Policymakers must prioritize U.S. sovereignty to protect public safety, American jobs and national security. That means we must secure our borders, close loopholes in visa programs, stop reckless sanctuary policies and certify refugee resettlement procedures. It\u2019s expected I will be selected in January to resume chairmanship of the Senate Judiciary Committee. From here I will lead nomination hearings for the new administration and judicial appointments to the federal bench, including the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court. I will continue bipartisan work on reforming federal criminal justice and sentencing laws, adopting juvenile justice improvements, and strengthening victims\u2019 rights.\u00a0 In the 115th Congress, I will retain my seat at the table on the Senate Finance, Agriculture and Budget Committees. These key assignments will allow me to influence policy decisions that may be considered, from overhauling the tax code, to restructuring health care policy, rebuilding infrastructure, updating trade deals, renewing the farm bill and expanding clean energy. As always, my door is open and I encourage Iowans to share your views. I look forward to hearing from you or seeing you face-to-face at one of my 99-county meetings in 2017.  \u00a0  To contact Senator Grassley, visit his website at grassley.senate.gov/contact. In addition to his office at 135 Hart Senate Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510, Senator Grassley will maintain six state offices in Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Des Moines, Sioux City and Waterloo.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-us-air-force-academy-selects-davenport-student", "Grassley: U.S. Air Force Academy Selects Davenport Student", "2016-12-23", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa said today that Shannon Grace Guy of Davenport has received an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO., for the 2017-2018 school year.  \u00a0  Guy is the daughter of Greg and Sona Guy of Davenport.\u00a0 She will graduate in May from Assumption High School.\u00a0 Guy is a member of Key Club, student council, student ambassadors, Spanish club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.\u00a0 She has also participated in Academic Decathlon and has been yearbook editor.  \u00a0  \u201cStudents work very hard to earn this kind of opportunity.\u00a0 Admission to the service academies is highly competitive and a great honor,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI wish Shannon well and thank her for her commitment to serve our nation.\u201d  \u00a0  Guy was among the 34 Iowans Grassley nominated this year for appointments to the U.S. service academies.\u00a0 Upon receiving an appointment, the student then decides whether to attend the academy.\u00a0 Information about seeking nominations can be found on Grassley\u2019s website.  \u00a0  For more than 200 years, these academies have educated and trained individuals to lead and command the U.S. armed forces.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-us-naval-academy-selects-marion-student", "Grassley: U.S. Naval Academy Selects Marion Student", "2016-12-22", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa said today that Carter Andrew Lorenz of Marion has received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., for the 2017-2018 school year.  \u00a0  Lorenz is the son of David and Leslie Lorenz of Marion.\u00a0 He will graduate in May from Linn-Mar High School.\u00a0 Lorenz has participated in cross country, swimming and track and field.\u00a0 He is a member of the National Honor Society, student council, student advisory council and National Council on Youth Leadership.\u00a0 He is also a swim instructor at the Linn-Mar Aquatic Center.  \u00a0  \u201cStudents work very hard to earn this kind of opportunity.\u00a0 Admission to the service academies is highly competitive and a great honor,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI wish Carter well and thank him for his commitment to serve our nation.\u201d  \u00a0  Lorenz was among the 34 Iowans Grassley nominated this year for appointments to the U.S. service academies.\u00a0 Upon receiving an appointment, the student then decides whether to attend the academy.\u00a0 Information about seeking nominations can be found on Grassley\u2019s website.  \u00a0  For more than 200 years, these academies have educated and trained individuals to lead and command the U.S. armed forces.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394970", "Loebsack Calls on CMS to Rescind Iowas Medicaid Waiver", "2016-12-21", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "IA", "Dave Loebsack", "L000565", "loebsack.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Dave Loebsack today called on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency responsible for granting the State of Iowa the waiver to privatize its Medicaid program, to rescind the waiver. A report published today by the Des Moines Register shows that payment shortages have created a 'catastrophic experience' for the program\u2019s private managers. This new report comes on top of continued complaints from patients about access to services and providers about delayed reimbursements. \u00a0A separate report issued today by the nonpartisan Iowa Legislative Services Agency, shows that the state\u2019s Medicaid program faces a $14.5 million shortfall for FY2017 and a $109 million shortfall in FY2018.\u201cSince the plan to privatize Medicaid in Iowa was announced, I have been wary of this proposal. Nearly 600,000 of our state\u2019s most vulnerable populations, including low-income families, children, seniors and individuals with disabilities rely on Medicaid. Throughout this transition to a privatized system, my number one concern has been about their ability to receive quality health care,\u201d said Loebsack. \u201cAs the program has progressed, it\u2019s become more and more clear that the privatized Medicaid program is not working. Thus, CMS needs to rescind the waiver it granted the state of Iowa. This plan was implemented too quickly and is grossly underfunded.\u201dLoebsack has met with families who have been personally affected by this transition and has received feedback from providers who are having issues with being reimbursed in a timely manner. Since last year, Loebsack has been leading the fight with leaders from the Iowa Senate to ensure all 600,000 Iowans who rely on Medicaid are not negatively affected by the transition.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-retains-seats-judiciary-finance-agriculture-and-budget-committees", "Grassley Retains Seats on Judiciary, Finance, Agriculture and Budget Committees", "2016-12-21", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Chuck Grassley today said he will keep his seats on the Senate Judiciary, Finance, Agriculture and Budget Committees in the 115th Congress.\u00a0 It is expected he will also retain his position as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\u00a0 The Republican leadership alerted senators of committee assignments.  \u00a0  \u201cThe start of a new Congress and new administration means big changes for the country. These committees have broad jurisdiction that will continue to be helpful in serving the best interests of Iowans.\u00a0 I hope to continue my good working relationship with Senator Feinstein, who will become Ranking Member on the Judiciary Committee,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cAs the Senate processes nominees in a new administration, opens up work on a new farm bill, and begins work on health care and tax overhauls, I will continue to focus on issues important to Iowans.\u201d  \u00a0  As expected Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley will lead the hearings and confirmation process on executive branch nominations to the Department of Justice, starting with United States Attorney General nominee Jeff Sessions. The committee will also receive and process the nomination of a new Supreme Court justice.\u00a0 Grassley plans to focus on reforming the federal criminal justice system, conducting rigorous oversight of the FBI and Justice Department, ensuring the immigration laws are enforced, working to keep competition in the prescription drug market, reining in excessive government regulations, and protecting whistleblowers and the tools used to root out fraud against the federal government.  \u00a0  As a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, depending on what the committee takes up, Grassley could be an influential voice in replacing the Affordable Care Act to make health care coverage more affordable and in overhauling the federal tax code to make taxes fair and easier to administer for individuals, families, companies and small businesses.\u00a0 Tax reform should increase job creation and economic growth.\u00a0 It should treat renewable energy tax provisions on the same footing with tax provisions that benefit other forms of energy, such as oil, gas and nuclear.\u00a0 Grassley also plans to continue his oversight of high prescription drug prices, including proper adherence with drug pricing under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program.\u00a0  \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0  On the Senate Agriculture and Budget Committees, Grassley, a family farmer, brings real-world experience to making agriculture policy. Grassley will play a major role in the development of a new farm bill in the next Congress.\u00a0 The Budget Committee will draft the budget plans for Congress.  \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-what-do-consumers-want-hearing-aid", "ICYMI: "What Do Consumers Want in a Hearing Aid?"", "2016-12-21", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley and Sen. Elizabeth Warren are the sponsors of the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act to help make certain hearing aids more available to consumers. \u00a0 A post on aarp.org explains why this bill is a good idea.HEALTH  Conditions & Treatments  What Do Consumers Want in a Hearing Aid?  by Katherine Bouton, December 19, 2016|  If you asked consumers what is most important when buying a hearing aid, would they say price or sound quality?  Hearing Tracker, a respected independent online resource for consumers, and USB Evidence Labs recently surveyed more than 360 audiologists about what brands and features consumers ask for most when buying a hearing aid.  Not surprisingly, sound quality came in first by a long shot (56 percent), with reliability a distant second (17 percent) and value for money in third place (12 percent).  I don't doubt that is exactly what the audiologists' customers said they wanted. But I also wonder if the answers would have been different if the customers, especially those who never go to an audiologist, had been asked directly. I expect those consumers would say an affordable price was their top priority.  Currently, only 1 in 7 U.S. adults who can benefit from a hearing aid have one. Why don't the other six?  The answer is cost. \"Hearing aids are expensive,\" Jan Blustein and Barbara Weinstein wrote in a June 2016 article in the American Journal of Public Health. Medicare and most insurance plans don't cover them, and so consumers typically pay for aids and fittings out of pocket. And that can get costly. The average cost of a single hearing aid is $2,300, but because age-related hearing loss typically affects both ears, that's a tidy $4,600 \u2014 a sum beyond the reach of many older people. Blustein and Weinstein note that \"in a recent population-based prospective study, a majority of participants cited cost as a major deterrent to buying a hearing aid.\"  Kim Cavitt, a past president of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, says audiologists have turned a blind eye to consumer wants. In a recent article headlined \"Have We Missed the Signs?\" in Hearing Health and Technology Matters, she wrote that consumers \"for the past decade have been clamoring for lower-cost amplification solutions,\" meaning more affordable hearing aids or hearing aid\u2013like devices.  The devices she refers to are lower-cost products that can effectively help with mild to moderate hearing loss. These won't replace traditional hearing aids, she wrote but will expand the market by providing a gateway to more advanced traditional hearing aids.  She also noted that consumers want transparent pricing from audiologists \u2014 including detailed pricing of various goods and services \u2014 and access to assistive listening devices and aural rehabilitation. But mostly, consumers want hearing amplification they can afford.  This month, responding to that consumer demand, Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) introduced a bill to ease restrictions for getting hearing aids, including eliminating a required medical exam for many devices. The bill was supported by a number of organizations, including AARP and the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), the nation's largest consumer group representing people with hearing loss.  The legislation preceded an announcement from the Food and Drug Administration that it will no longer require adults to get a medical exam before purchasing certain hearing aids, clearing the way for a new category of over-the-counter devices.  Barbara Kelley, the executive director of the HLAA, endorses both developments.  \"Each and every day,\" she wrote, \"our office receives letters, phone calls and emails from people with hearing loss inquiring about financial assistance to purchase hearing aids (up to 10 requests a day). The financial help page on hearingloss.org is the number one visited page on HLAA's website. Sadly, there are few financial aid resources. Creating a category of over-the-counter hearing aids will go a long way toward making these essential devices affordable for the millions of Americans who need them.\"  Cavitt agrees although she isn't discounting the need for audiologists, by any means. People with serious hearing loss will always need audiologists and the services that only they can offer, she says.  For now, though, the goal should be finding an easier, financially feasible way to get the remaining 6 out of 7 Americans with hearing loss the devices they need.\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/Grassley-Presses-for-Information-about-Oversight-of-Foreign-Students-Attending-Flight-Schools", "Grassley Presses for Information about Oversight of Foreign Students Attending Flight Schools", "2016-12-20", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley is questioning the Obama administration\u2019s oversight of flight schools and their training of foreign nationals.\u00a0 Grassley is reiterating concerns after a Jordanian national, who was reportedly in the United States on a student visa, in October crashed a small plane during a training exercise at the entrance to the Pratt & Whitney factory in East Hartford, Conn.\u00a0 According to local law enforcement, the Pratt & Whitney plant is classified as a \u201ccritical infrastructure\u201d facility by the U.S. government.In a letter to department heads of both the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration, Grassley expressed concern that foreign nationals continue trying to use flight schools as a means to harm or kill Americans, and asked what is being done to prevent exploitation of flight training programs.\u00a0 He also asked for additional information on the latest incident involving the Jordanian national in Connecticut. \u00a0\u201cEver since the September 11 terrorist attacks, oversight of flight training by foreign nationals has been an issue of enormous national security importance. Concerns about the potential use of small aircraft in particular have been increasing,\u201d Grassley wrote.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Grassley introduced legislation in 2014 to reform the student visa program.\u00a0 The bill would help root out fraud and abuse in the student visa system, including ending a flight school\u2019s participation in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program if the training program is not certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. \u00a0Here is the text of Grassley\u2019s letter to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration Michael Huerta.\u00a0 A copy of the letter can also be found here. \u00a0December 19, 2016VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONThe Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528The Honorable Michael Huerta  Administrator  Federal Aviation Administration  U.S. Department of Transportation  Washington, D.C. 20591Dear Secretary Johnson and Administrator Huerta:I am writing to request information about the Administration\u2019s oversight of flight training by foreign nationals. I am particularly concerned about this subject in light of the crash on October 11 of an airplane in East Hartford, Connecticut piloted by Mr. Feras M. Freitekh, a Jordanian national in the United States reportedly on a student visa.1 Mr. Freitekh was killed in the crash and his flight instructor, Mr. Arian Prevalla, who was also onboard, survived, but was severely injured.2 Mr. Prevalla, is also the owner of American Flight Academy, the flight school attended by Mr. Freitekh.3The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said in a statement the next day that its initial investigation of the crash \u201cindicates the crash is the result of an intentional act.\u201d4 The NTSB is accordingly transferring lead for the investigation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).5 East Hartford police also asked the FBI to become involved in the investigation because the plane went down next to the entrance gates of the Pratt & Whitney factory, which police say is classified as a \u201ccritical infrastructure\u201d facility by the U.S. government.6 Pratt & Whitney is a global aerospace manufacturer; among its products are engines used in numerous U.S. military aircraft.7According to media reports, Mr. Freitekh came to the United States on a temporary student visa in 2012 for flight training, though whether that immigration status remains valid is unclear.8 Federal Aviation Administration records indicate Freitekh was issued a private pilot\u2019s license to fly a single-engine aircraft in May 2015.9 Mr. Freitekh provided a home address in Orland Hills, Illinois on his application for a flight school in Hartford, but police state he never lived at that address.10  Ever since the September 11 terrorist attacks, oversight of flight training by foreign nationals has been an issue of enormous national security importance. Concerns about the potential use of small aircraft in particular have been increasing. In September 2011, DHS and the FBI published a Joint Intelligence Bulletin in which they state that \u201c[v]iolent extremists with knowledge of general aviation and access to small planes pose a significant potential threat to the Homeland.\u201d11 Specifically, the Bulletin warns that \u201cAl-Qa\u2018ida and its affiliates have maintained an interest in obtaining aviation training, particularly on small aircraft, and in recruiting Western individuals for training in Europe or the United States\u2026\u201d12Numerous troubling incidents over the years have kept these concerns alive. In January 2002, a 15-year-old boy with aviation training died when he deliberately crashed a small plane into a Florida office building.13 A note recovered from the scene revealed the boy\u2019s support for Osama bin Ladin.14 In 2008, ABC News reported that \u201c[t]housands of foreign student pilots have been able to enroll and obtain pilot licenses from U.S. flight schools, despite tough laws passed in the wake of the 9/11 attacks\u2026.\u201d15 In 2010, DHS arrested dozens of illegal immigrants who were enrolled at TJ Aviation Flight Academy in Stow, Massachusetts.16 In September 2011, Rep. Henry Cuellar stated in a House Homeland Security Committee hearing that a couple weeks earlier several Mexican nationals had been discovered receiving flight training in south Texas without the proper visas.17 \u201cIt is troubling,\u201d said Rep. Cuellar, \u201cthat even 10 years after the 9/11 we still have foreign nationals taking flight training in the United States without the requisite vetting or oversight.\u201d18In light of the foregoing, I would appreciate answers to the attached questions. Please also send a copy of the \u201cA file\u201d for Feras M. Freitekh.I request that the Department respond to this letter no later than January 13, 2017. Should you have any questions, please contact Kathy Nuebel of my Committee staff at (202) 224-5225.Sincerely,  Charles E. Grassley  Chairman  QUESTIONS  1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What was the immigration status of Feras M. Freitekh on the date of the East Hartford crash?  \u00a0  2. What is the immigration status of TJ Aviation Inc. owner Thiago DeJesus? Is TJ Aviation Inc. or Mr. DeJesus still offering flight training to foreign nationals?3. What is the immigration status of the 34 Brazilian nationals studying at TJ Aviation who were arrested by ICE in 2010? In particular, as of the date of this letter how many, if any, have been removed?4. Under what circumstances, if any, are foreign nationals on the \u201cNo Fly\u201d list allowed to receive flight training?5. In response to a 2012 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report discussing vulnerabilities in TSA\u2019s screening of foreign flight students, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement worked in collaboration with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on a pilot to determine lawful status of the active Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP) population.19 The House Homeland Security Committee was informed that, by December 31, 2012, TSA would \u201cprepare a plan, with specific details on time frames and accountability, to assess the results of the pilot including recommendations for future steps.\u201d20 Please send a copy of that TSA plan. If it was never completed, please (i) explain why it was never completed; and (ii) describe the results of the pilot program.6. Under which nonimmigrant visa classifications (including dependent classifications, such as F-2, H-4, or L-2) may a foreign national receive flight training in the United States?  7. Which of the nonimmigrant classifications identified in the response to question #6 are not tracked in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)?8. May a foreign student in the United States in F, J, or M status enrolled in a degree program or course of study that is unrelated to flight training also receive flight training? If so, would such flight training be captured or tracked by SEVIS in addition to any screening done by TSA\u2019s Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP)?9. If the \u201cB\u201d visa category (visitors for business or pleasure) is one of the categories in which an alien may receive flight training, please explain how that is possible in light of the prohibition on aliens coming to the United States on a B visa \u201cfor the purpose of study\u201d (INA 101(a)(15)(B))?10. TSA regulations prohibit a flight school from providing flight training to aliens unless the flight school or the alien submits certain information to TSA\u2019s AFSP and TSA determines that the candidate is not a threat to aviation or national security.21 Is TSA AFSP screening of prospective flight students performed as a condition of issuance of an F, J, or M visa to a foreign national seeking to come to the United States for flight training? If not, why not?  1 Zolan Kanno-Youngs, \u201cPilot in Crash Was in the U.S. on Student Visa,\u201d Wall Street Journal (Oct, 13, 2016), available at http://www.wsj.com/articles/pilot-in-crash-was-in-the-u-s-on-student-visa-1476401797.  2 Id.  3 Id.  4 \u201cStatement on East Hartford, Connecticut aircraft crash investigation,\u201d National Transportation Safety Board Press Release, National Transportation Safety Board Office of Public Affairs (Oct. 12, 2016), available at http://www.ntsb.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/PR20161012.aspx.  5 Id.  6 Nicholas Rondinone, David Owens and Christine Dempsey, \u201cOne Dead, Pilot Hurt in Plane Crash; FBI Investigating Whether It Was Intentional,\u201d Hartford Courant (Oct. 12, 2016), available at http://www.courant.com/breaking-news/hc-plane-crash-1012-20161011-story.html.  7 Saagar Enjeti, \u201cDeveloping: Jordanian \u2018Student\u2019 Intentionally Slams Plane Into Downtown Conn. City,\u201d The Daily Caller (Oct. 12, 2016) available at http://dailycaller.com/2016/10/12/jordanian-pilot-fatal-connecticut-plane-crash-not-an-accident/.  8 Id.  9 Rondinone, supra, note 6.  10 Kanno-Youngs, supra, note 1.  11 \u201cAl-Qa\u2018ida and the Threat to General Aviation,\u201d Joint Intelligence Bulletin, U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Sep. 2, 2011), available at https://info.publicintelligence.net/DHS-FBI-GeneralAviation.pdf.  12 Id.  13 Id. at 4.  14 Id.  15 Brian Ross, Vic Walter, and Eric Longabardi, \u201c9/11 Redux: \u2018Thousands of Aliens\u2019 in U.S. Flight Schools Illegally,\u201d ABC News (Feb. 27, 2008), available at http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=4353991&page=1.  16 Maria Sacchetti, \u201cStow flight school scrutinized,\u201d The Boston Globe (Nov. 5, 2010), available at http://archive.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/11/05/flight_school_arrests_raise_terrorism_fears/?page=full. \u00a0  17 \u201cHearing on The Attacks of September 11th: Where are We Today,\u201d Hearing Before the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives (Sep. 8, 2011), at pp. 55-56, available at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CHRG-112hhrg72929/pdf/CHRG-112hhrg72929.pdf.  18 Id. at 56.  19 \u201cGeneral Aviation Security: Weaknesses Exist in TSA\u2019s Process for Ensuring Foreign Flight Students Do Not Pose a Security Threat,\u201d Government Accountability Office, GAO 12-875 (July 18, 2012); Statement of John P. Woods, Assistant Director, National Security Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security Hearing on General Aviation Security and Foreign Flight Students Before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security (July 18, 2012), at p.2.  20 Woods, supra, note 20, at p.2.  21 \u201cFlight Training for Aliens and Other Designated Individuals; Security Awareness Training for Flight School Employees,\u201d Transportation Security Administration, Department of Homeland Security, Interim Final Rule, 69 Fed. Reg. 56,324 (Sep. 20, 2004).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-goodlatte-probe-u-visa-immigration-parole-practices-following-fraud", "Grassley, Goodlatte Probe U Visa, Immigration Parole Practices Following Fraud & Overreach", "2016-12-20", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate and House Judiciary Committee Chairmen Chuck Grassley and Bob Goodlatte today are calling on the Obama Administration to explain its management of the U visa program following significant findings of fraud and a new administrative policy that appears to violate the law. The U visa program was designed to allow foreign nationals who fall victim to crime in the United States to remain here to assist in the investigation and prosecution of their perpetrator. \u00a0However, falsified U visa applications and Obama Administration policies that ignore congressional limits have distorted the program beyond its original intent.A law enforcement agency investigating a crime can certify a U Visa application if the foreign national cooperates in the investigation. \u00a0However, recent cases have highlighted how the program is being exploited through falsified police reports and bribes to secure U visas allowing foreign nationals to avoid deportation. \u00a0According to whistleblowers, such illicit activity to secure U visas is common. \u00a0In a letter today to Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, the chairmen are seeking information regarding how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services certifies the validity of U visa applications.\u00a0\u201cAlthough the U visa program can be an important tool in the investigation and prosecution of crimes, fraud and abuse of the program can lead to unjustified approvals leaving legitimate victims in the shadows,\u201d the chairmen said in the letter.The chairmen are also raising concern about new Obama Administration policies that effectively ignore an annual 10,000 visa cap for principle applicants. \u00a0The Obama Administration is seeking to grant \u201cconditional approval\u201d to applicants after the cap is reached, preventing deportation and allowing the applicant to remain in the United States until more visas are available in a subsequent year. \u00a0Applicants living abroad could be admitted into the United States while their application is being reviewed under a proposed blanket immigration parole policy. \u00a0This policy ignores congressionally-mandated caps and a law that limits the administration\u2019s parole authority to a case-by-case discretionary basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.\u201cThe new U visa blanket parole policy is yet another example of the Obama Administration\u2019s complete disregard for Congress\u2019 constitutionally mandated role in developing immigration policy. \u00a0This policy ignores the authority of the legislative branch, and tramples on our system of checks and balances,\u201d the chairmen said in the letter.The chairmen\u2019s letter to Secretary Johnson follows:December 20, 2016The Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary  Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528Dear Secretary Johnson:We write today regarding alleged fraudulent activity associated with the U nonimmigrant visa (U visa) program. \u00a0We also want to express opposition to an apparent U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) decision to implement a seemingly unlawful parole program for U visa petitioners living abroad. \u00a0The U visa program was originally created by the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act in 2000 to ensure that illegal alien victims of crimes could remain in the United States to assist with the investigation and prosecution of their perpetrator. \u00a0However, this visa is being exploited by those wishing to defraud the system and avoid deportation. \u00a0For example, in May of 2016, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi announced the indictment of 11 individuals who were part of a conspiracy to submit fraudulent documents to USCIS in order to obtain U visas. \u00a0Such fraudulent documents included falsified police reports containing forged law enforcement official signatures. \u00a0 All 11 defendants entered guilty pleas in October of 2016. \u00a0Additionally, the same month, a special agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and an attorney were charged with bribery, conspiracy to defraud the U.S., and obstructing an official investigation by the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General (DHS OIG). \u00a0The HSI special agent was charged after he misused his position to obtain numerous deferrals of deportation and other immigration benefits for non-citizen foreign nationals in return for over $5,000 in cash payments, free legal services and other items of value from the attorney involved. \u00a0According to whistleblower reports to the Senate Judiciary Committee, instances of law enforcement officials improperly certifying U visa forms in exchange for cash and other bribes is a common occurrence.\u00a0U visas are capped at 10,000 annually for principal applicants.[2] \u00a0However, under an apparently unlawful USCIS policy, cases that would have otherwise been approved in the absence of the cap may receive \u201cconditional approval\u201d and a work authorization until U visas become available the following year.[3] \u00a0In some cases, despite no statutory authorization, the application itself may serve to halt deportation until it is adjudicated.[4] \u00a0Petitioners in foreign countries who apply for a U visa after the cap is exceeded, until now, remained abroad until their application was fully adjudicated. \u00a0However, in August, USCIS announced its intent to \u00a0implement a new \u00a0\u201cparole policy\u201d under which eligible U visa petitioners who live abroad, along with their derivatives, can apply for parole and be admitted to the U.S. prior to adjudication. \u00a0 \u00a0 Such a policy has the potential to allow thousands of individuals the ability to wait for their adjudication results in the United States, during which time they could be granted work authorization and additional benefits.\u00a0According to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), parole should be granted on a case-by-case discretionary basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, and is not intended for sweeping or blanket use. [5] The new U visa blanket parole policy is yet another example of the Obama Administration\u2019s complete disregard for Congress\u2019 constitutionally mandated role in developing immigration policy. \u00a0This policy ignores the authority of the legislative branch, and tramples on our system of checks and balances.\u00a0Although the U visa program can be an important tool in the investigation and prosecution of crimes, fraud and abuse of the program can lead to unjustified approvals leaving legitimate victims in the shadows. \u00a0In light of the increasing accounts of U visa fraud, and the new parole policy that could allow thousands of petitioners free passage to the United States while their application is pending, please respond to the following questions and provide the requested information no later than January 2, 2016.\u00a01.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please list all law enforcement agencies that have provided U visa certifications since 2009, and provide the number of certifications done each year by each agency. \u00a0a.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What steps does USCIS take to verify that the certification is valid? \u00a0b.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What steps does USCIS take to ensure that the signature on the certification is in fact the signature of the law enforcement official named? \u00a0c.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What steps do certifying law enforcement agencies take to verify the validity of an alien applicant\u2019s statement and limit fraud? \u00a02.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0With which law enforcement entities has the Department discussed U visa standards in the last seven years? \u00a0Please describe the content of such discussions.3.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Are U visa applications approved on a first come, first served basis, or does the agency issue visas to those most vulnerable or helpful to an investigation or prosecution? Please explain and provide any relevant written guidance provided to adjudicators. \u00a0Has any consideration been given to issuing U visas in an alternative manner? \u00a0If so, please explain.4.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please provide the number of times for each of the past three fiscal years (FY 2014-2016) that a U visa application has been approved for a principal based on that principal being \u201clikely to be helpful\u201d to the investigation or prosecution as opposed to the principal actually aiding in the investigation or prosecution. \u00a0Please provide the number of derivative U visas applied for based on the above criteria. \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a05.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please provide the number of pending U visa applications. \u00a0Please also provide the number of derivatives included in such applications. \u00a0a.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Of the number of principal applicants who have pending U visa applications, how many currently live abroad? \u00a0b.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Of the number described in question (a), how many would be eligible for parole under the new USCIS parole policy?\u00a06.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How many cases of U visa fraud were identified from FY 2014 through October of FY 2016 and by which component in DHS was the fraud identified? \u00a0Please provide the resolution of each case (i.e. referred to U.S. attorneys, referred for prosecution, prosecuted, acquitted, etc.)?\u00a07.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What percentage of cases in which a U visa applicant is assisting with a criminal investigation have resulted in an arrest? \u00a0What percentage of cases have resulted in a successful prosecution? \u00a0Please provide data for FY 2010-present.8.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How many derivative U visas were granted to family members of U visa recipients each year from FY 2014 through FY 2016? \u00a0How many derivative U visas were applied for during this period?9.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What types of immigration benefits are available to U visa applicants while their applications are pending? \u00a0Can they be granted \u2018deferred action\u2019 while they wait for approval of their applications? \u00a010.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please describe in detail a U visa recipient\u2019s \u201congoing responsibilities\u201d with respect to a potential investigation or prosecution.11.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Has USCIS issued guidance to law enforcement entities ensuring their knowledge that a visa certification is discretionary and not a mandatory exercise? \u00a0If so, please provide this guidance. \u00a0If not, why not?\u00a012.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How many U visa recipients applied for extensions each year during FY 2010 \u2013 2016? \u00a0How many U visa extensions were granted during each of those fiscal years? \u00a013.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How many U visa grantees received employment authorization each year during FY 2010\u20132016? \u00a014.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please provide any and all reports by Department of Homeland Security components outlining fraud in the U visa program from FY 2010- FY 2016. \u00a0\u00a0Thank you in advance for your prompt responses in this important matter. \u00a0Should you have any questions, please contact Katherine Nikas of the Senate Judiciary Committee staff at (202) 224-5225 or Andrea Loving of the House Judiciary Committee staff at (202) 225-3951.  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  Sincerely,\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  Bob GoodlatteChairman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0House Committee on the Judiciary\u00a0Charles E. Grassley \u00a0Chairman.Senate Committee on the Judiciary  cc: \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The Honorable Patrick J. Leahy  Ranking Member, Senate Judiciary Committee\u00a0The Honorable John Roth\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  Inspector General\u00a0  Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/node/12586", "Grassley Presses for Information about Oversight of Foreign Students Attending Flight Schools", "2016-12-20", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley is questioning the Obama administration\u2019s oversight of flight schools and their training of foreign nationals.\u00a0 Grassley is reiterating concerns after a Jordanian national, who was reportedly in the United States on a student visa, in October crashed a small plane during a training exercise at the entrance to the Pratt & Whitney factory in East Hartford, Conn.\u00a0 According to local law enforcement, the Pratt & Whitney plant is classified as a \u201ccritical infrastructure\u201d facility by the U.S. government.In a letter to department heads of both the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration, Grassley expressed concern that foreign nationals continue trying to use flight schools as a means to harm or kill Americans, and asked what is being done to prevent exploitation of flight training programs.\u00a0 He also asked for additional information on the latest incident involving the Jordanian national in Connecticut. \u00a0\u201cEver since the September 11 terrorist attacks, oversight of flight training by foreign nationals has been an issue of enormous national security importance. Concerns about the potential use of small aircraft in particular have been increasing,\u201d Grassley wrote.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Grassley introduced legislation in 2014 to reform the student visa program.\u00a0 The bill would help root out fraud and abuse in the student visa system, including ending a flight school\u2019s participation in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program if the training program is not certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. \u00a0Here is the text of Grassley\u2019s letter to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration Michael Huerta.\u00a0 A copy of the letter can also be found here. \u00a0December 19, 2016VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONThe Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528The Honorable Michael Huerta  Administrator  Federal Aviation Administration  U.S. Department of Transportation  Washington, D.C. 20591Dear Secretary Johnson and Administrator Huerta:I am writing to request information about the Administration\u2019s oversight of flight training by foreign nationals. I am particularly concerned about this subject in light of the crash on October 11 of an airplane in East Hartford, Connecticut piloted by Mr. Feras M. Freitekh, a Jordanian national in the United States reportedly on a student visa.1 Mr. Freitekh was killed in the crash and his flight instructor, Mr. Arian Prevalla, who was also onboard, survived, but was severely injured.2 Mr. Prevalla, is also the owner of American Flight Academy, the flight school attended by Mr. Freitekh.3The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said in a statement the next day that its initial investigation of the crash \u201cindicates the crash is the result of an intentional act.\u201d4 The NTSB is accordingly transferring lead for the investigation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).5 East Hartford police also asked the FBI to become involved in the investigation because the plane went down next to the entrance gates of the Pratt & Whitney factory, which police say is classified as a \u201ccritical infrastructure\u201d facility by the U.S. government.6 Pratt & Whitney is a global aerospace manufacturer; among its products are engines used in numerous U.S. military aircraft.7According to media reports, Mr. Freitekh came to the United States on a temporary student visa in 2012 for flight training, though whether that immigration status remains valid is unclear.8 Federal Aviation Administration records indicate Freitekh was issued a private pilot\u2019s license to fly a single-engine aircraft in May 2015.9 Mr. Freitekh provided a home address in Orland Hills, Illinois on his application for a flight school in Hartford, but police state he never lived at that address.10  Ever since the September 11 terrorist attacks, oversight of flight training by foreign nationals has been an issue of enormous national security importance. Concerns about the potential use of small aircraft in particular have been increasing. In September 2011, DHS and the FBI published a Joint Intelligence Bulletin in which they state that \u201c[v]iolent extremists with knowledge of general aviation and access to small planes pose a significant potential threat to the Homeland.\u201d11 Specifically, the Bulletin warns that \u201cAl-Qa\u2018ida and its affiliates have maintained an interest in obtaining aviation training, particularly on small aircraft, and in recruiting Western individuals for training in Europe or the United States\u2026\u201d12Numerous troubling incidents over the years have kept these concerns alive. In January 2002, a 15-year-old boy with aviation training died when he deliberately crashed a small plane into a Florida office building.13 A note recovered from the scene revealed the boy\u2019s support for Osama bin Ladin.14 In 2008, ABC News reported that \u201c[t]housands of foreign student pilots have been able to enroll and obtain pilot licenses from U.S. flight schools, despite tough laws passed in the wake of the 9/11 attacks\u2026.\u201d15 In 2010, DHS arrested dozens of illegal immigrants who were enrolled at TJ Aviation Flight Academy in Stow, Massachusetts.16 In September 2011, Rep. Henry Cuellar stated in a House Homeland Security Committee hearing that a couple weeks earlier several Mexican nationals had been discovered receiving flight training in south Texas without the proper visas.17 \u201cIt is troubling,\u201d said Rep. Cuellar, \u201cthat even 10 years after the 9/11 we still have foreign nationals taking flight training in the United States without the requisite vetting or oversight.\u201d18In light of the foregoing, I would appreciate answers to the attached questions. Please also send a copy of the \u201cA file\u201d for Feras M. Freitekh.I request that the Department respond to this letter no later than January 13, 2017. Should you have any questions, please contact Kathy Nuebel of my Committee staff at (202) 224-5225.Sincerely,  Charles E. Grassley  Chairman  QUESTIONS  1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0What was the immigration status of Feras M. Freitekh on the date of the East Hartford crash?  \u00a0  2. What is the immigration status of TJ Aviation Inc. owner Thiago DeJesus? Is TJ Aviation Inc. or Mr. DeJesus still offering flight training to foreign nationals?3. What is the immigration status of the 34 Brazilian nationals studying at TJ Aviation who were arrested by ICE in 2010? In particular, as of the date of this letter how many, if any, have been removed?4. Under what circumstances, if any, are foreign nationals on the \u201cNo Fly\u201d list allowed to receive flight training?5. In response to a 2012 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report discussing vulnerabilities in TSA\u2019s screening of foreign flight students, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement worked in collaboration with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on a pilot to determine lawful status of the active Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP) population.19 The House Homeland Security Committee was informed that, by December 31, 2012, TSA would \u201cprepare a plan, with specific details on time frames and accountability, to assess the results of the pilot including recommendations for future steps.\u201d20 Please send a copy of that TSA plan. If it was never completed, please (i) explain why it was never completed; and (ii) describe the results of the pilot program.6. Under which nonimmigrant visa classifications (including dependent classifications, such as F-2, H-4, or L-2) may a foreign national receive flight training in the United States?  7. Which of the nonimmigrant classifications identified in the response to question #6 are not tracked in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)?8. May a foreign student in the United States in F, J, or M status enrolled in a degree program or course of study that is unrelated to flight training also receive flight training? If so, would such flight training be captured or tracked by SEVIS in addition to any screening done by TSA\u2019s Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP)?9. If the \u201cB\u201d visa category (visitors for business or pleasure) is one of the categories in which an alien may receive flight training, please explain how that is possible in light of the prohibition on aliens coming to the United States on a B visa \u201cfor the purpose of study\u201d (INA 101(a)(15)(B))?10. TSA regulations prohibit a flight school from providing flight training to aliens unless the flight school or the alien submits certain information to TSA\u2019s AFSP and TSA determines that the candidate is not a threat to aviation or national security.21 Is TSA AFSP screening of prospective flight students performed as a condition of issuance of an F, J, or M visa to a foreign national seeking to come to the United States for flight training? If not, why not?  1 Zolan Kanno-Youngs, \u201cPilot in Crash Was in the U.S. on Student Visa,\u201d Wall Street Journal (Oct, 13, 2016), available at http://www.wsj.com/articles/pilot-in-crash-was-in-the-u-s-on-student-visa-1476401797.  2 Id.  3 Id.  4 \u201cStatement on East Hartford, Connecticut aircraft crash investigation,\u201d National Transportation Safety Board Press Release, National Transportation Safety Board Office of Public Affairs (Oct. 12, 2016), available at http://www.ntsb.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/PR20161012.aspx.  5 Id.  6 Nicholas Rondinone, David Owens and Christine Dempsey, \u201cOne Dead, Pilot Hurt in Plane Crash; FBI Investigating Whether It Was Intentional,\u201d Hartford Courant (Oct. 12, 2016), available at http://www.courant.com/breaking-news/hc-plane-crash-1012-20161011-story.html.  7 Saagar Enjeti, \u201cDeveloping: Jordanian \u2018Student\u2019 Intentionally Slams Plane Into Downtown Conn. City,\u201d The Daily Caller (Oct. 12, 2016) available at http://dailycaller.com/2016/10/12/jordanian-pilot-fatal-connecticut-plane-crash-not-an-accident/.  8 Id.  9 Rondinone, supra, note 6.  10 Kanno-Youngs, supra, note 1.  11 \u201cAl-Qa\u2018ida and the Threat to General Aviation,\u201d Joint Intelligence Bulletin, U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Sep. 2, 2011), available at https://info.publicintelligence.net/DHS-FBI-GeneralAviation.pdf.  12 Id.  13 Id. at 4.  14 Id.  15 Brian Ross, Vic Walter, and Eric Longabardi, \u201c9/11 Redux: \u2018Thousands of Aliens\u2019 in U.S. Flight Schools Illegally,\u201d ABC News (Feb. 27, 2008), available at http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=4353991&page=1.  16 Maria Sacchetti, \u201cStow flight school scrutinized,\u201d The Boston Globe (Nov. 5, 2010), available at http://archive.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/11/05/flight_school_arrests_raise_terrorism_fears/?page=full. \u00a0  17 \u201cHearing on The Attacks of September 11th: Where are We Today,\u201d Hearing Before the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives (Sep. 8, 2011), at pp. 55-56, available at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CHRG-112hhrg72929/pdf/CHRG-112hhrg72929.pdf.  18 Id. at 56.  19 \u201cGeneral Aviation Security: Weaknesses Exist in TSA\u2019s Process for Ensuring Foreign Flight Students Do Not Pose a Security Threat,\u201d Government Accountability Office, GAO 12-875 (July 18, 2012); Statement of John P. Woods, Assistant Director, National Security Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security Hearing on General Aviation Security and Foreign Flight Students Before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security (July 18, 2012), at p.2.  20 Woods, supra, note 20, at p.2.  21 \u201cFlight Training for Aliens and Other Designated Individuals; Security Awareness Training for Flight School Employees,\u201d Transportation Security Administration, Department of Homeland Security, Interim Final Rule, 69 Fed. Reg. 56,324 (Sep. 20, 2004).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/weeklyreport/blessed-be-iowan", "Blessed to be an Iowan", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Blessed to be an Iowan\nIn the Young household, Christmas is an opportunity to reflect on and recommit to our faith, unplug, connect, and catch up with one another after a long year.\u00a0\nWe attend church services and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. We gather as a family, reminiscing about past memories around the supper table, and make new memories for our future generations to continue.\u00a0\u00a0\nI always enjoy this time of year - the Christmas season marked by family tradition, joy, thankfulness, and faith. It is a time embraced with compassion and generosity as we remember those less fortunate, help our communities, and assist our neighbors in need.\nWhatever your traditions or beliefs may be, it is my hope you may spend time or connect with those you love and cherish, even if it\u2019s from afar. We know Christmas and holidays can be difficult for some. None of us are perfect and immune to spiritual trials or relationship struggles with others. It is my prayer that with humility and forgiveness, we can find peace and love we all desire and deserve this Christmas.\u00a0\nAs we reflect on the passing of another year, let us be reminded of the love, joy, and gratitude the holiday season brings, and the blessings life in this great nation afford us. And, we are especially blessed to be Iowans - America's true heartland is our home.\nIt is especially fitting to remember as Americans, we have the right to practice the religion of our choosing, and observe its holidays and traditions, without the fear of government persecution. Unfortunately, this is a liberty many families in nations around the world can only dream of.\nWe have the right to have beliefs and ways of thinking which may differ from our neighbors, our family members, and our elected officials. The willingness to accept and respect these differences is a foundation of this nation. We are grateful for the service and sacrifice of our military members who stand to protect these rights and freedoms.\nThis season, please join me in taking a moment to think about and thank our men and women in uniform who are not able to be with their families today, the service members who are serving to protect the nation we love and to keep us safe. Let us also keep the families and loved ones of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in our thoughts and prayers.\u00a0\nAs you go forth this holiday season, may God bless you and your family. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.\u00a0\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/qa-counterfeits-spoil-gift-giving", "Q&A: Counterfeits Spoil Gift-Giving", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley\u00a0Q: Are counterfeit goods a bigger risk during the holiday gift season?\u00a0A:\u00a0 Americans work hard for their money and look for ways to stretch their dollars, especially when household expenses go up during the season of gift giving. Savvy shoppers scour sales racks and online flash sales to score decent savings and good deals to get the best value for their money. However, consumers always need to be mindful of dangerous counterfeit items and knock-off goods that make their way into mainstream commerce and online shopping, from luxury brands to basement bargains. Around the holiday season, the generosity of Americans is undermined by cheap knock-offs that rip off consumers and creators and pose health and safety hazards, as well. The trafficking of counterfeit goods and online piracy undermines the integrity of free markets, trade and innovation. As people tighten their belts and carefully watch their spending, it\u2019s important to raise awareness about the danger of deals that are too good to be true. Bad deals and bad bargains are bad for the economy and bad for consumer safety. For example, counterfeit electronics and fake accessories may risk overheating, counterfeit cosmetics and beauty supplies may contain hazardous chemicals, counterfeit auto supplies, sport and safety gear may not provide the protection consumers expect and counterfeit food and pharmaceuticals could be lethal.\u00a0 Consider the prevalence of batteries and chargers used to power up technology products. A recent Underwriters Laboratories test found that 99 percent of counterfeit iPhone chargers did not meet its safety standards or provide adequate power or electrical shielding. These counterfeit items present a risk to user safety and may damage other consumer goods, including the devices being powered.\u00a0 The bottom line is clear. Counterfeiters pad their profits at the expense of consumer and product safety.  \u00a0  Q: What do consumers need to know?\u00a0A:\u00a0 The number one tip is buyer awareness. Word-of-mouth is one way bad products are weeded out from good ones. As for where to spend your dollars in the first place, trust, but verify. Check to make sure the website offers a customer service phone number and the products ship from within the United States. A URL that begins with \u201chttps\u201d indicates a secure connection. At check-out, if the system reroutes to an external online payment system, follow instincts before sharing financial and personal information. Similarly, do not respond to requests to verify your password or credit card information unless you initiated the contact. If prices are marked far below standard market rates, that\u2019s another red flag for counterfeit merchandise.\u00a0 If the packaging seems low quality with misspellings and doesn\u2019t include a legitimate safety certification from Underwriters Laboratories or another independent safety organization, use good judgment before buying or using the product.\u00a0 Many products include security measures, such as holograms, to make it easier for consumers to identify authentic items. Upon using a product, watch for batteries that don\u2019t fit properly or overheat during use.\u00a0 In 2015, federal authorities seized merchandise valued at more than $1.3 billion for violations of intellectual property rights. What\u2019s more, some 15,000 illegal websites have been seized and 48,000 fake e-commerce links have been shut down by federal law enforcement authorities and partners from 27 countries around the world. While the U.S. and our trading partners must keep working together to curb counterfeiting, U.S. consumers are encouraged to beware of the risk.  \u00a0  Contact the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center for more tips and to report potential violations at http://www.iprcenter.gov. Consumers also may learn more at the National Crime Prevention Council at http://www.ncpc.org/topics/intellectual-property-theft/fake-consumer-goods-1 or report suspicious counterfeits to the FBI at https://www.ic3.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-johnson-write-presidential-transition-team-outlining-va-concerns", "Grassley, Johnson Write Presidential Transition Team Outlining VA Concerns", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a letter to Vice President-elect Mike Pence, head of the Trump transition team, Thursday regarding the state of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and concerns they share about the numerous shortcomings within the department.  \u00a0  \u201cOur veterans deserve the finest care. All too often, unfortunately, we learn of serious allegations of mismanagement and wrongdoing at the VA facilities across the country. Whether it is unreasonable wait times at multiple facilities, the widespread overprescription of highly addictive opioids, veteran suicides, misconduct by VA management, or retaliation against whistleblowers, it is clear that not all veterans are receiving the high-quality care they deserve,\u201d Johnson and Grassley wrote. \u201cWe are hopeful that under new leadership, the VA can embrace these principles to ensure that our nation\u2019s veterans receive the care they deserve.\u201dThe letter can be found here and below:December 15, 2016The Honorable Mike Pence  Vice President-elect\u00a0  Presidential Transition Office  1800 F Street NW  Washington, DC 20006Dear Vice President-elect Pence:Congratulations to President-elect Trump and you. \u00a0We share your commitment to improving the care our nation\u2019s veterans receive and welcome the opportunity to work with the incoming Administration to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). \u00a0As you consider priorities for the VA, we write to inform you about how our ongoing oversight of the VA shows an urgent need to improve veteran care, promote accountability, and protect whistleblowing within the VA. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Our veterans deserve the finest care. \u00a0All too often, unfortunately, we learn of serious allegations of mismanagement and wrongdoing at VA facilities across the country. \u00a0Whether it is unreasonable wait times at multiple facilities, the widespread over-prescription of highly addictive opioids, veteran suicides, misconduct by VA management, or retaliation against whistleblowers, it is clear that not all veterans are receiving the high-quality care they deserve. The veteran suicide epidemic is particularly troubling and we have strongly urged the VA Inspector General to investigate veteran suicides among Iowa and Wisconsin veterans to determine if the VA failed in its care and, if so, to ensure that these failures never happen again.\u00a0Congress has acted to fix some of these problems. \u00a0In the wake of the wait time scandals at the Phoenix VA, Congress passed the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 (Choice Act). \u00a0The law established a pilot program in which veterans could seek care outside of the VA if they were unable to schedule an appointment within 30 days, or if they live far away from a VA facility. \u00a0This program has not been implemented according to the letter and intent of the law, making it difficult to use for veterans. \u00a0We hope that under new leadership, the VA improves and expands the Choice Program for those veterans who wish to seek care from non-VA providers. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0We believe the vast majority of VA employees are dedicated and hard-working civil servants. \u00a0However, the current Administration has shown that it is either unwilling or unable to hold employees accountable for wrongful conduct. \u00a0The failure to hold officials accountable poisons the entire workforce. The Choice Act authorized the Secretary of the VA to seek the removal or transfer of Senior Executives based on poor performance or misconduct. \u00a0To date, the VA has used its authority to fire only six senior executives. \u00a0One senior executive, who was removed for his failures at the Tomah VA Medical Center in Tomah, Wisconsin, received a lump sum payment of $88,000 upon removal from the VA. \u00a0Similarly, media reports have also highlighted a trend in which VA leaders who have reportedly engaged in various forms of misconduct are shuffled from one VA facility to another. \u00a0These senior employees, by and large, have appeared to avoid any accountability for their actions. \u00a0On May 31, 2016, Attorney General Lynch informed the Senate Legal Counsel that the Justice Department would no longer enforce the removal provisions of the Choice Act. \u00a0In addition, current VA leadership has vigorously opposed congressional efforts to enact additional accountability measures on non-senior executive VA employees. \u00a0Moving forward, we encourage the new VA Secretary to not only use the tools Congress has already provided the Department to hold bad-acting and underperforming VA Senior Executives accountable, but also work with Congress to enact additional accountability measures for all VA employees. \u00a0 \u00a0In addition, the VA has a cultural problem with whistleblower retaliation. \u00a0For fiscal year 2015, the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) processed 2,165 cases from the VA. \u00a0The agency with the next highest case load was the Department of Defense (DOD), with 1,322 cases\u2014despite the fact that the DOD has twice as many civilian employees as the VA. \u00a0OSC testified that the overwhelming volume of VA complaints presented numerous challenges to the agency charged with investigating and enforcing our nation\u2019s whistleblower protection statutes. \u00a0Our Committees have worked closely with VA whistleblowers across the country. \u00a0We have been able to identify common challenges that VA whistleblowers face when they take the courageous step to come forward and report wrongdoing. \u00a0In some instances, VA whistleblowers have been subjected to retaliatory investigations and placed on administrative leave for unreasonable lengths of time. \u00a0For example, Brandon Coleman, a VA whistleblower who exposed the Phoenix VA\u2019s failures to properly care for suicidal veterans, was placed on administrative leave for 460 days and subjected to various forms of retaliation after he reported wrongdoing. \u00a0In addition, some VA whistleblowers who receive medical care from the VA have had their private medical records improperly accessed by their coworkers after they report wrongdoing. \u00a0All too often, it is the whistleblower who faces punishment while retaliating managers avoid any culpability for their actions. \u00a0In April 2016, the Senate confirmed a permanent Inspector General for the VA, Michael Missal, who has promised to improve his office\u2019s ability to conduct independent investigations and rigorous oversight of the VA. \u00a0We are hopeful that under new leadership, the VA can embrace these principles to ensure that our nation\u2019s veterans receive the care they deserve. \u00a0We look forward to working with the new Administration to enact meaningful reforms that improve veteran care, expand veteran choice, hold all VA employees accountable, and enhance whistleblower protections. \u00a0Thank you for your attention to this important matter.Sincerely,\u00a0Ron Johnson \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 \u00a0Charles E. Grassley  Chairman \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 Chairman\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-leahy-comment-us-copyright-office-report-examining-legal-framework", "Grassley, Leahy Comment on U.S. Copyright Office Report Examining the Legal Framework of Software-Enabled Consumer Products", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Copyright Office released an analysis of how copyright law applies to software-enabled consumer products, which are becoming increasingly prevalent in the lives of American consumers.\u00a0 The report was prompted by a 2015 request from Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.).\u00a0 The senators issued the following statement:\u00a0  \u201cIn everything from Fitbit to farm equipment, we\u2019ve seen a sweeping expansion of smart technology in recent years and the emergence of the new internet of things.\u00a0 While this innovation presents new opportunities, it also poses important questions about privacy, consumer protection, public safety, cybersecurity, competition, and the development of the digital economy.\u00a0 To help us understand a critical component of these issues, we asked the Copyright Office for a study of how our copyright laws are implicated by the prevalence of software enabled devices.\u00a0 We greatly appreciate the Copyright Office\u2019s hard work in producing this timely study, which will prove invaluable to the Senate Judiciary Committee as we continue to work together to make informed policy choices that protect the interests of consumers, creators and innovators.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-nominates-iowa-students-us-service-academies-2", "Grassley Nominates Iowa Students to the U.S. Service Academies", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Chuck Grassley has nominated 34 Iowa students to be considered for appointments to the U.S. service academies.  \u00a0  \u201cYoung Iowans who want to enter the academies and serve our country are a remarkable reflection on our state.\u00a0 These candidates\u2019 accomplishments and leadership are exceptional, and their early desire to serve signals continued excellence in the U.S. armed forces,\u201d Grassley said.  \u00a0  Each year Grassley has the opportunity as a U.S. senator to nominate either current or future Iowa high school graduates for a select few service academy placements.\u00a0 The U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval Academy all select at least one qualified student from Grassley\u2019s nominations.\u00a0 The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy makes selections in proportion to states\u2019 representation in Congress.  \u00a0  Grassley said he encourages Iowa students to consider applying to more than one service academy due to the highly competitive nature of admissions.\u00a0 Iowa representatives in the U.S. House of Representatives make nominations in addition to both of Iowa\u2019s U.S. senators.\u00a0 Students may receive more than one nomination.  \u00a0  Students interested in academy appointments should begin the application process in the spring of their junior year of high school.\u00a0 Early application is encouraged.\u00a0 The academies select students based on the number of vacancies available for the next school year.\u00a0  \u00a0  \u201cThe academies offer some of the best options for higher education, and they offer an outstanding way to serve our country.\u00a0 It\u2019s a tremendous opportunity for young Iowans,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0  \u00a0  Traditionally, the high quality of Iowa nominees results in several Iowa students being offered admission to attend each of the service academies.\u00a0 The students then choose whether or not to attend the academy.\u00a0 More information about service academy nominations can be found here.  \u00a0  Grassley will make announcements as academy appointments are offered to Iowans.\u00a0The lists below include the names and hometowns of Grassley\u2019s nominees for the 2017\u20132018 school year.  \u00a0  U.S. Military Academy at West Point  Ryer Barnes \u2013 Cedar Rapids  Jerry Bastin \u2013 Muscatine  Noah Bierman \u2013 West Liberty  Zach Bunn \u2013 Bettendorf  Griffin Clark \u2013 Lisbon  Garrett Dolan \u2013 Muscatine  Elizabeth Ernst \u2013 Red Oak  Brock Jennings \u2013 Osage  Calvin Pieper \u2013 Waukee  John Sullivan \u2013 DavenportU.S. Naval Academy  Nathan Abramoff \u2013 Iowa City  Connor Ascherl \u2013 Granville  Justin Budan \u2013 Ottumwa  Lucas Cosselman \u2013 Eldridge  Samantha Fultz \u2013 Rowley  Patrick Gorman \u2013 Springville  Patricia King \u2013 Sioux Center  Carter Lorenz \u2013 Marion  Gabrielle Plagge \u2013 Le Mars  Elizabeth Worthington \u2013 BrooklynU.S. Merchant Marine  Selena Bantz \u2013 West Des Moines  Brayden Elbert \u2013 Indianola  Colin Kerkhoff \u2013 Waukee  Joshua Krehbiel \u2013 Elkhart  \u00a0  U.S. Air Force Academy  Lucas Castro \u2013 Davenport  Savannah David \u2013 Granger  Nathan Davis \u2013 Cedar Rapids  Lindsey Dee \u2013 Melcher Dallas  Brayden Elbert \u2013 Urbandale  Shannon Guy \u2013 Davenport  Christine Hess \u2013 Shelby  Daniel Holt \u2013 Cedar Rapids  Jack Vander Voort \u2013 Orange City  Noah Welch \u2013 Urbandale-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/refugee-vetting-ohio-state-attacker-missed-signs-possible-link-terrorism", "Refugee Vetting for Ohio State Attacker Missed Signs of Possible Link to Terrorism", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley is raising new questions about the Obama administration\u2019s prior vetting of the man who launched an attack on the Ohio State University campus in November following tips that the refugee background checks for him and his family may have been incomplete.Abdul Razak Ali Artan, the man behind the November attack, arrived in the United States with his mother and six siblings as refugees originally from Somalia in 2013, according to documents obtained by the committee. \u00a0During the refugee vetting process, Artan\u2019s mother indicated that she was seeking refugee status, in part, because she feared the terrorist group \u201cAl-Shabbah\u201d would kidnap and recruit her children. \u00a0This claim should have triggered additional vetting for the older children, including Artan, to determine what, if any, interactions they may have had with the terrorist organization. \u00a0However, this additional vetting apparently didn\u2019t happen. \u00a0Additionally, government forms used in the 2013 vetting interview appear to be from the Immigration and Naturalization Service, which was replaced by the Department of Homeland Security in 2002. \u00a0It\u2019s unclear whether the forms used in the interview excluded certain fields that may have been required in the 2013 version of the forms, leading to an incomplete review.Artan was killed by law enforcement after he drove his vehicle into a crowd and then began slashing people with a knife. Federal investigators reportedly believe Artan was inspired by ISIS and the radical cleric Anwar al-Awlaki.In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, Grassley is seeking the immigration and criminal histories of Artan\u2019s mother and siblings, as well as records related to the interview conducted with Artan\u2019s mother to evaluate her request for refugee status. \u00a0Grassley also implored the department to use up-to-date forms to ensure that the proper information is documented. \u00a0Grassley previously requested Artan\u2019s immigration and criminal history in November.Full text of Grassley\u2019s recent letter follows.December 14, 2016VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONThe Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary  U.S. Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528Dear Secretary Johnson:On December 3, 2016, I wrote to you requesting information on Abdul Razak Ali Artan, the Ohio State University student who attacked pedestrians on campus with his car and a butcher\u2019s knife leaving 11 injured. \u00a0Today, I seek additional information from your Department based on new details provided to the Committee.\u00a0According to sources, Abdul Razak Ali Artan was a lawful permanent resident who originally came to the United States from Mogadishu, Somalia after spending time in a Pakastani refugee camp with his mother, Fatima Abdullahi, and six siblings. \u00a0According to records obtained by the Committee, the mother sought asylum in 2013 for herself and seven of her eight children because she feared persecution from \u201cMilitia and Al-Shabbah.\u201d She also indicated that her husband was kidnapped, and that her children would be kidnapped and recruited by Al-Shabbah if they remained in Somalia.This information should have caused the asylum officer to conduct additional questioning of the older children to better understand ties to a group that the United States designated as a foreign terrorist organization in 2008. \u00a0Further questioning could have eliminated the possibility that the asylees had dubious ties to the terrorist group and could have allowed for more robust vetting and data collection. \u00a0However, although common practice in these cases, no additional questioning was conducted. \u00a0Moreover, it appears several of the forms obtained by my office still bear the Department\u2019s previous name, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, which was replaced in 2002 by the Homeland Security Act. \u00a0I am interested in understanding whether the substance of the form completed in 2013 is outdated, or if the form simply bears the incorrect name. \u00a0It is imperative that these important forms are up to date to ensure proper records are obtained, and information documented.\u00a0To better understand the situation, please provide a description of the mother\u2019s and siblings\u2019 immigration history and copies of their alien files, including any temporary files, working files, and all documents and items contained in them that were generated by DHS or in its possession about them, whether currently in written or electronic form, including, but not limited to, the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Executive Summary, criminal history and immigration summaries, detainers or requests for notification, I-213(s), and Notice(s) to Appear or other charging documents created to seek their removal from the United States. \u00a0Please also provide documentation of the credible fear interview with the mother and her children as well as any other corroborating documentation that was used in reaching the decision to grant refugee status. If the credible fear interview was not conducted, please explain what other mechanisms were used to verify and vet the applicants.I anticipate that your written reply and any responsive documents will be unclassified. Please send all unclassified material directly to the Committee. In keeping with the requirements of Executive Order 13526, if any of the responsive documents do contain classified information, please segregate all unclassified material within the classified documents, provide all unclassified information directly to the Committee, and provide a classified addendum to the Office of Senate Security. Although the Committee complies with all laws and regulations governing the handling of classified information, it is not bound, absent its prior agreement, by any handling restrictions or instructions on unclassified information unilaterally asserted by the Executive Branch.\u00a0Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please respond by December 21, 2016. If you have any questions, please contact Katherine Nikas of my Committee staff at (202) 224-5225.  Sincerely,\u00a0Charles E. Grassley  Chairman  Senate Judiciary Committeecc:\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The Honorable Patrick Leahy  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Ranking Member  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Senate Committee on the Judiciary\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-comments-final-rules-help-address-ag-competition", "Grassley Comments on Final Rules to Help Address Ag Competition", "2016-12-14", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Chuck Grassley made the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture released interim final rules to increase competitiveness in the livestock and poultry industry. Grassley fought to ensure competition was addressed in the 2008 farm bill, which required the proposed rules.\u00a0 A family farmer himself, Grassley has led the congressional effort to address unfair practices, monopsony and vertical integration in agriculture.  \u00a0  \u201cFor too many years these rules have been stymied by appropriations riders.\u00a0 Now we\u2019re finally seeing some results of the 2008 farm bill, while weaker than I had hoped, it appears to be a step in the right direction in addressing the unprecedented level of concentration in agriculture that is putting independent producers at a disadvantage.\u00a0 I\u2019ve heard loud and clear from Iowa cattlemen over the last several months about the power packers continue to exercise to the detriment of independent livestock operators. \u00a0  \u00a0  \u201cThe farmer fair practices rules enjoy bipartisan support in Congress, I\u2019m glad Secretary Vilsack has finally been able to take action which will help level the playing field for small producers in rural America.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-intends-press-epa-energy-nominees-ethanol-views", "Grassley Intends to Press EPA, Energy Nominees on Ethanol Views", "2016-12-14", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa is a long-time proponent of renewable fuels as part of an all-inclusive energy strategy to meet the country\u2019s tremendous energy needs. \u00a0He made the following comment on the nominations of Scott Pruitt, attorney general of Oklahoma, to head the Environmental Protection Agency and Rick Perry, former governor of Texas, to lead the Energy Department.  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0  \u201cPresident-elect Trump has indicated his support for the Renewable Fuel Standard and the ethanol industry and has recognized ethanol\u2019s contribution to energy independence. \u00a0I look forward to working with the President-elect and his nominees to continue the success of domestic biofuels. \u00a0I intend to press the nominees on their views on renewable fuels since they come from fossil fuels-producing states. \u00a0If needed, I\u2019ll be glad to explain the many benefits of biofuels to U.S. economic and national security, energy independence, and American job growth.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-reform-credited-recovering-more-53-billion-lost-fraud", "Grassley Reform Credited with Recovering More Than $53 Billion Lost to Fraud", "2016-12-14", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "More than $4.7 Billion in Taxpayer Funds Recouped from Fraudsters in 2016 AloneWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley\u2019s False Claims Act reforms helped the federal government recover more than $4.7 billion from fraudsters in fiscal 2016, according to a Justice Department announcement today. That brings the total amount of taxpayer dollars recovered from fraud since Grassley\u2019s reforms to more than $53.1 billion.\u201cToday\u2019s announcement marks a significant milestone in our efforts to protect taxpayers against fraud. The False Claims Act is the single most effective tool to recovering taxpayer dollars lost to fraudsters who exploit the government. \u00a0It encourages whistleblowers to raise the alarm when they encounter unscrupulous actors and prevent further government waste. And it is clearly working. \u00a0For those who doubt the value of whistleblowers and the False Claims Act, when it comes to fraud against the government, I\u2019d say at least $53 billion, and counting,\u201d Grassley said.The False Claims Act was enacted to prosecute fraud against taxpayers by unscrupulous companies and government contractors. \u00a0Grassley, the current Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, authored reforms to the False Claims Act in 1986 to encourage whistleblowers to come forward with information involving such fraud. In the last decade, the government has clawed back an average of $3.4 billion annually, thanks in large part, to Grassley\u2019s qui tam provisions, which allow whistleblowers to share in the government\u2019s recovery. \u00a0Many of the recoveries were initiated by whistleblowers who took advantage of Grassley\u2019s provisions allowing them to bring their own case on the government\u2019s behalf.Grassley also led an effort in 2009 to pass the Fraud Enforcement Recovery Act, which bolstered existing tools and resources for government investigators and prosecutors to combat fraud.\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-sessions-hearing-track", "Grassley:  Sessions Hearing on Track", "2016-12-14", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley today said that the hearing for Attorney General nominee Senator Jeff Sessions is on track after returning the committee questionnaire last week. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Grassley noted that Attorney General Eric Holder supplemented his questionnaire with hundreds of additional items in 2008, 2009 and even in 2010, and his hearing remained on schedule on the timeline the committee will follow for Sessions.\u00a0 Grassley added that Sessions\u2019 more than 20 years in public service, along with the fact that members of the committee have worked next to him on issues such as sentencing reform, civil rights, and victims of crime make the committee more than equipped to hold the hearing consistent with the timeline set for Attorney General Holder.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Here is Grassley\u2019s letter to Feinstein.\u00a0 His comment yesterday regarding the hearing is here. \u00a0Dear Senator Feinstein:  \u00a0  I write in response to your December 13, 2016 letter concerning Senator Sessions\u2019 nomination to serve as Attorney General of the United States. \u00a0  \u00a0  As an initial matter, thank you for your letter of Friday, December 9.\u00a0 I appreciate your agreement to follow the precedent that the timeline for holding a hearing begins to run when the nominee returns his or her Questionnaire materials.\u00a0 Senator Sessions produced the remainder of his materials in response to the Questionnaire within minutes of your staff delivering your letter to mine on Friday. \u00a0  \u00a0  As you know, the Questionnaire calls for nominees to produce a wide range of published writings and public statements.\u00a0 Senator Sessions expeditiously collected the records of his decades in public life to provide the Committee with fulsome responses to the Questionnaire on a timeline similar to past nominees.\u00a0 It is no surprise that Senator Sessions\u2019 twenty years of service as our colleague\u2014not to mention his service in the Department of Justice and to the State of Alabama\u2014yielded an extensive record. \u00a0  \u00a0  Nor is it any surprise that Senator Sessions\u2019 production consists almost entirely of writings and speeches that were previously publicly available, including speeches he has delivered on the Senate floor and statements he has made at Committee meetings you and I have both attended.\u00a0 In fact, initial staff review indicates that only a fraction of Senator Sessions\u2019 production was not previously available to the public.\u00a0 Unlike previous nominees whose records were largely unknown to the Committee, Senator Sessions is well known to all of us.\u00a0 Far from delaying our review, Senator Sessions\u2019 extensive public record\u2014including service known personally to members of this Committee\u2014should aid the determination of his character and qualifications for this high office on a timeline consistent with prior nominations, if not earlier. \u00a0  \u00a0  Senator Sessions produced comprehensive responses to the Committee Questionnaire\u2014documenting the life of public service we have all witnessed\u2014to aid us in that task.\u00a0 The purpose of our review is to assess the qualifications and character of a man you and I have known and served beside for two decades. \u00a0  \u00a0  In light of his record and his production to the Committee, your letter claims deficiencies in two categories of Senator Sessions\u2019 Questionnaire responses\u2014first, his response concerning his role in various political campaigns, and second, his response supposedly omitting two specific speeches he delivered. \u00a0  \u00a0  With respect to the first, the question regarding previous political activity is of course designed to ascertain whether and how a nominee has been politically active.\u00a0 There can be no surprise that a sitting United States Senator is politically active.\u00a0 And as you know, for a United States Senator, these activities simply do not necessarily take the form the Questionnaire contemplates.  \u00a0  Regarding the claim that several speeches were not included, of course you also know that we and our colleagues are frequently called upon to speak at a variety of constituent and other events.\u00a0 Senator Sessions explained that he made his best effort to identify and locate copies of such remarks where available.\u00a0 Like prior nominees for the office of Attorney General, he also indicated that there may be other such materials he is unable to identify, locate, or remember.\u00a0 He also provided a list of speeches for which no notes exist\u2014including one of the speeches identified in your letter, which he gave to the Federation for American Immigration Reform in 2007.\u00a0 This approach is consistent with the practice of prior nominees and with the reality you and I know well\u2014that Senators speak regularly to a wide variety of groups, often with no prepared text or notes remaining after an event.\u00a0 Senator Sessions has nevertheless produced hundreds of pages of such remarks, providing plenty of material to aid us in our review of his record and character.  \u00a0  Moreover, as you know, it\u2019s not unusual for a nominee to supplement his or her Questionnaire.\u00a0 For example, you will recall Attorney General Eric Holder supplemented his Questionnaire materials several times.\u00a0 In December 2008 alone, Attorney General Holder supplemented his Questionnaire responses with more than two hundred items of information.\u00a0 He provided further supplemental responses before his confirmation hearing in January 2009.\u00a0 Indeed, he even wrote to the Committee in March 2010\u2014more than a year after his confirmation\u2014to identify several litigation matters before the Supreme Court he had not disclosed in his Questionnaire responses.\u00a0 Notwithstanding those supplemental submissions, Attorney General Holder\u2019s hearing was held on the timeline this Committee will follow for Senator Sessions. \u00a0  \u00a0  I agree with you: leadership of the highest quality at the Department of Justice is vital indeed.\u00a0 Senator Sessions has provided this Committee with fulsome responses clearly resulting from a good faith effort to answer the Questionnaire.\u00a0 I look forward to working with you to ensure Senator Sessions receives the full and fair hearing he deserves on January 10 and 11. \u00a0  \u00a0  Sincerely,Chuck Grassley  Chairman, Senate Judiciary Committee  \u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/congress-sends-several-grassley%E2%80%99s-good-government-initiatives-president%E2%80%99s-desk", "Congress Sends Several of Grassleys Good-Government Initiatives to Presidents Desk", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Congress just approved a slate of measures championed by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley to improve government accountability, cut waste and empower whistleblowers. \u00a0The measures were approved as both chambers prepared to bring the 114th Congress to a close.The measures include Grassley\u2019s Inspector General Empowerment Act and FBI Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act as well as a provision in a bill funding the Department of Defense to curb the use of extended paid leave for government employees based on Grassley\u2019s Administrative Leave Act. \u00a0\u201cA government for the people must be accountable to the people. \u00a0But all too often the federal bureaucracy falls short, leaving taxpayers underserved and overcharged. \u00a0Government watchdogs and whistleblowers are critical to identifying fraud, waste and misconduct, and restoring the accountability taxpayers deserve. \u00a0Congress\u2019 approval of these bills will not only empower watchdogs and whistleblowers, it will also help cut waste and encourage greater accountability. The president should now sign these bills into law to improve the government for the people it serves,\u201d Grassley said.The following legislation and nominations were approved last week before Congress adjourned:Inspector General Empowerment Act  Despite a 1978 law granting inspectors general authority to review all agency records in the course of their oversight work, a recent Justice Department legal opinion has been used by several Obama administration agencies to withhold documents from such scrutiny. The lack of cooperation prevents inspectors general from conducting full and thorough investigations to identify and address inefficiencies or misconduct.Grassley\u2019s bipartisan bill restores Congress\u2019 intent to guarantee inspectors general access to \u201call records\u201d of the agencies they oversee. \u00a0The Inspector General Empowerment Act contains additional provisions to improve the independence of inspectors general and to equip them with the tools to more effectively and efficiently tackle waste, fraud and misconduct within the government. \u00a0Read more HERE  FBI Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act  Employees across the vast majority of federal agencies are legally protected from workplace reprisal when they expose wrongdoing to their supervisors. \u00a0However, FBI employees are not protected when making similar disclosures. \u00a0Instead, Justice Department regulations require disclosures to be made to a limited group of senior officials even though FBI policy encourages employees to report to supervisors. \u00a0As a result, FBI whistleblowers often make their initial disclosure to a supervisor, but have no legal protection in the event of retaliation. \u00a0Grassley\u2019s bipartisan bill brings the FBI in line with other federal agencies and encourages other would-be whistleblowers by ensuring that FBI employees can access the same legal protections as those in other agencies when disclosing fraud, waste or abuse to their supervisor. \u00a0Read more HERE.  Administrative Leave Act  Grassley introduced this bipartisan legislation to curb excessive use of paid leave by federal employees after several reports, including his own, indicated that employees are being placed on paid administrative leave for months or even years at a time. \u00a0As a result, taxpayers are paying billions of dollars for salaries of employees who are not working for the people. \u00a0Grassley\u2019s review also found that paid leave is often used as a means of reprisal by agencies to remove whistleblowers from the workplace.The bill prevents administrative leave waste and abuse by:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Limiting paid administrative leave to a maximum of ten days a year.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Creating new types of leave\u2014including investigative and notice leave\u2014that would be available for the agency to use while it is investigating misconduct or taking action against that employee. These new types of leave would finally hold agency managers and leadership accountable for placing employees on extended paid leave.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Requiring executive agencies to keep records related to the use of extended paid leave.\u00a0The legislation was included in an annual Department of Defense funding bill. Read more HERE.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-refers-planned-parenthood-fetal-tissue-procurement-organizations-fbi", "Grassley Refers Planned Parenthood, Fetal Tissue Procurement Organizations to FBI, Justice Dept. for Investigation", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Following an investigation into the practice of fetal tissue transfers and the federal laws governing the practice, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley is referring several Planned Parenthood affiliates and companies involved in fetal tissue transfers, as well as the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, to the FBI and the Department of Justice for investigation and possible prosecution.\u201cI don\u2019t take lightly making a criminal referral.\u00a0 But, the seeming disregard for the law by these entities has been fueled by decades of utter failure by the Justice Department to enforce it,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0 \u201cAnd, unless there is a renewed commitment by everyone involved against commercializing the trade in aborted fetal body parts for profit, then the problem is likely to continue.\u201d\u00a0 \u00a0Grassley\u2019s referral follows the completion of a Senate Judiciary Committee majority staff analysis of more than 20,000 pages of documents provided voluntarily by the organizations and companies involved.\u00a0 While the impetus for the investigation was the release of a series of videos regarding transfers of fetal tissue by the Center for Medical Progress, the committee\u2019s analysis and findings are based strictly on the documents obtained independently from tissue procurement companies and Planned Parenthood.  \u00a0  The Majority Staff Report concludes:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Despite the clear legislative history of the 1993 NIH Revitalization Act, the executive branch across multiple administrations has failed to enforce the law\u2019s safeguards.\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Since 2010, three companies - Advanced Bioscience Resources, Inc.; StemExpress, LLC; and Novogenix Laboratories, LLC (Novogenix has since gone out of business) - have paid affiliates of Planned Parenthood Federation of America to acquire aborted fetuses, and then sold the fetal tissue to their respective customers at substantially higher prices than their documented costs. \u00a0\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) initially had a policy in place to ensure its affiliates were complying with the law, but the affiliates failed to follow its fetal tissue reimbursement policy.\u00a0 When PPFA learned in 2011 of this situation, PPFA cancelled the policy rather than exercise oversight to bring the affiliates back into compliance.\u00a0\u00a0 Thus, PPFA not only turned a blind eye to the affiliates\u2019 violations of its fetal tissue policy, but also altered its own oversight procedures enabling those affiliates\u2019 practices to continue unimpeded.\u00a0 \u00a0\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The cost analyses provided by affiliates of Planned Parenthood Federation of America lack sufficient documentation and rely on unreasonably broad and vague claims of costs for \u201cthe transportation, implantation, processing, preservation, quality control or storage of\u201d fetal tissue.\u00a0 Planned Parenthood attorneys acknowledge that the affiliates had failed to follow procedures put in place to ensure compliance with the law.\u00a0 In addition, the cost analyses were only performed long after the fact and at the insistence of the committee.The full report details the long history of the controversy surrounding human fetal tissue research and the bipartisan legislative approach taken to resolve the issue at the time, as well as the subsequent lack of enforcement.\u00a0 As the report explains, \u201cSupport for the 1993 NIH Revitalization Act was premised on the idea that the ban on buying or selling fetal tissue would be a safeguard against the development for a market for human fetuses.\u00a0 Tragically, the executive branch has either failed or simply refused to enforce that safeguard.\u00a0 As a result, contrary to the intent of the law, companies have charged thousands of dollars for specimens removed from a single aborted fetus; they have claimed the fees they charged only recovered acceptable costs when they had not, in fact, conducted any analysis of their costs when setting the fees; and their post hoc accounting rationalizations invoked indirect and tenuously-related costs in an attempt to justify their fees.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  The report can be found here.The referral can be found here.-30-\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-sessions-nomination-be-attorney-general", "Grassley Statement on Sessions Nomination to be Attorney General", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley released the following statement regarding the nomination of Senator Jeff Sessions to be Attorney General.\u201cThe materials provided to the committee by Senator Sessions are in large part public documents that anyone can find on his official Senate website.\u00a0 It\u2019s information that\u2019s been publicly available, in some instances, for twenty years.\u00a0 In fact, only a small percentage of the material was not already publicly available. As the committee members know, Attorney General Holder supplemented his questionnaire multiple times with, literally, hundreds of additions and clarifications, including one update more than a year after he was confirmed.\u00a0 And, most importantly, his hearing remained on schedule. So, any suggestion that a nominee\u2019s good faith efforts to locate and produce responsive material is cause for delay begins to look like a call for delay for delay\u2019s sake, rather than a thorough review of a colleague\u2019s character and qualifications. I look forward to hearing from Senator Sessions on Jan. 10.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-urges-president-elect-trump-prioritize-fixing-medicaid-drug", "Grassley Urges President-elect Trump to Prioritize Fixing Medicaid Drug Misclassifications, Preserving a Competitive Marketplace to Help Bring Down Drug Prices", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa urged President-elect Donald Trump to counteract high prescription drug prices by addressing drug misclassifications under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program and making sure laws to fight monopolistic behavior are enforced. \u00a0Grassley is working to understand the reasons behind the high cost of EpiPens. \u00a0The product has been misclassified under the Medicaid rebate program, likely leading to overcharges of hundreds of millions of dollars to taxpayers.\u201cMoving forward, I strongly urge your Administration to look at the pharmaceutical landscape and improve the regulatory approval process and enforcement authorities already in place,\u201d Grassley wrote. \u00a0\u201cI urge you to work with the Congress on legislative efforts to address anti-competitive behavior and to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens that may be impairing the timely introduction of safe, lower cost prescription drug alternatives in the market. Congress and your Administration can work together to devise policies that incentivize innovation and promote competition to the benefit of patients and taxpayers.\u00a0\u201cI also urge you to reverse the unwillingness of the executive branch \u2013 specifically the failure of the Obama Administration \u2013 to fully cooperate with congressional requests, whether it be oversight letters or hearings. Government actions must be disclosed to the public and held out in the open to foster transparency and accountability.\u201dGrassley scheduled a hearing in November to explore a reported government settlement with EpiPen maker Mylan over the Medicaid misclassification and explore the Obama Administration\u2019s efforts to hold companies accountable for drug misclassifications. \u00a0However, Obama Administration officials from the Justice Department and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services CMS) refused to testify. \u00a0Mylan followed their poor example. \u00a0Grassley plans to reschedule the hearing in 2017.Grassley raised the misclassification problem during his meeting last week with Trump\u2019s nominee for CMS administrator. \u00a0 He also discussed soaring drug prices and some of the remedies he\u2019s working on with Trump\u2019s nominee for secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.Grassley\u2019s letter is available here.\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-congressional-review-election-cyberattacks", "Grassley Statement on Congressional Review of Election Cyberattacks", "2016-12-12", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley made the following statement on congressional oversight of the cyberattacks targeting political organizations and political operatives.\u201cI\u2019ve been asking questions of intelligence officials, and will be staying involved, about the cyberattacks targeting political organizations and political operatives.\u00a0 The Russians, and possibly others, may very well have launched these cyberattacks.\u00a0 We need to get to the bottom of the Obama administration\u2019s failure to stop these attacks and to determine accountability, to prevent it from happening, and to craft an appropriate response.\u00a0 But, we shouldn\u2019t confuse an attack with influence.\u00a0 So, in addition to isolating and deterring such hacking, another question remains.\u00a0 Did exposing inappropriate and unethical actions on the part of Democratic officials actually change votes, let alone change the election?\u00a0 Congressional oversight can be an effective tool to understand what may or may not have occurred by Russian hackers.\u00a0 As Congress investigates, it will provide important context to the allegations.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/fbi-whistleblowers-receive-protections-rooting-out-waste-fraud-and-abuse", "FBI Whistleblowers to Receive Protections for Rooting out Waste, Fraud and Abuse", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and long-time advocate for whistleblowers said that a modified version of his FBI Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act cleared the Senate today and is now headed to the President for signature.\u201cThis is a really important provision for the patriotic men and women at the FBI who have gone without the whistleblower protections given to other federal employees for far too long.\u00a0 The current process is vague, confusing and lacks common sense, and it often puts people in hot water for no legitimate reason,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0 \u201cThe protections in this bill ensure a logical reporting requirement which allows more cases to be heard on the merits instead of being senselessly dismissed because an FBI employee logically reported wrongdoing to their supervisor.\u201d\u00a0 \u00a0The modified bill that cleared the Senate protects from reprisal FBI whistleblowers who disclose wrongdoing to their direct supervisors.\u00a0 Currently, FBI employees are not protected when they disclose wrongdoing to their supervisors.\u00a0 Instead, Justice Department regulations require disclosures to be made to a limited group of senior officials even though FBI policy encourages employees to report to supervisors.\u00a0 As a result, FBI whistleblowers often make their initial disclosure to a supervisor, but have no legal protection in the event of retaliation. \u00a0Grassley said that he will pursue the remaining provisions of the FBI Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act in the next Congress. \u00a0Grassley is a long-time advocate for whistleblowers.\u00a0 He\u2019s the founder of the Whistleblower Protection Caucus which focuses on raising awareness of the important role whistleblowers play in bringing about accountability in government and the workplace, and the need to protect them from retaliation when they disclose fraud or misconduct. \u00a0Grassley also authored changes in 1986 to the President Lincoln-era federal False Claims Act to empower private-sector whistleblowers.\u00a0 Since the 1986 amendments were signed into law, the False Claims Act has brought back tens of billions of dollars to the federal treasury, and has deterred even more fraudulent activity.\u00a0 Grassley has since gotten signed into law provisions to make violations of the anti-kickback statute a violation of the False Claims Act.\u00a0 And also amended the False Claims Act to ease the \u201cpublic disclosure\u201d bar and allow the government to oppose dismissal even if there was previous public disclosure, as well as relax requirements for \u201coriginal source\u201d exception to the public disclosure bar.Grassley is the co-author of the 1989 whistleblower law designed to protect federal whistleblowers and the 2012 update to the law.\u00a0\u00a0 He also authored the 2006 overhaul of the IRS whistleblower program to fight major tax fraud.\u00a0 Grassley worked to establish the whistleblower protections for private sector employees as part of the Sarbanes-Oxley reform effort, and helped write legislation to create the SEC whistleblower office.\u00a0 In 2009, in coordination with Senator Patrick Leahy, Grassley worked to pass legislation to shore up whistleblower protections in the False Claims Act that had been eroded by the courts after years of litigation by defense and healthcare contractors. \u00a0Grassley also got signed into permanent law an anti-gag measure that says no money can be used by federal agencies to enforce any nondisclosure agreement that interferes with the right of individuals to provide information to Congress.\u00a0 Earlier this year, Grassley and Leahy authored legislative language that was signed into law to ensure that companies cannot intimidate whistleblowers by threatening them with lawsuits for trade secret theft.Statement for the Senate Record of Senator Chuck Grassley  S. 2390, FBI Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act, as amended  Saturday, December 10, 2016Mr. President,For a long time, my friend Senator Leahy and I have worked hard to improve protections for FBI employees who report waste, fraud, and abuse.  In March 2015, we held a hearing in the Judiciary Committee examining the FBI whistleblower program. That hearing addressed Department of Justice and Government Accountability Office reviews of the program.\u00a0 Both of those reviews found significant problems. \u00a0The biggest problem is a longstanding loophole the Department created in its interpretation of the statutory protections for FBI whistleblowers.\u00a0 The Department\u2019s rules only protect FBI employees who experience reprisal after they report wrongdoing to a handful of offices or individuals.\u00a0 But those rules do not recognize that almost all whistleblowers first report wrongdoing to their immediate supervisor.\u00a0 Then they go up the chain of command.It\u2019s just human nature that when you spot a problem at work, you tell your boss.\u00a0 FBI policy even encourages employees to report through their chain of command. Yet, under the current rules, those same employees have no remedy if they suffer reprisal for disclosing waste, fraud, or abuse to their boss. \u00a0According to the Government Accountability Office, in five years, roughly one third of FBI reprisal complaints were dismissed because the employee made the report to the \u201cwrong person\u201d in their management chain.\u00a0 It doesn\u2019t matter if the original disclosure uncovered actual wrongdoing.\u00a0 If the employee who reported it experiences retaliation, there is nothing they can do about it.\u00a0 Worse, FBI employees are the only employees in the federal government without these protections.Even whistleblowers in the Intelligence Community, thanks to the President\u2019s Policy Directive number 19, are protected when they make disclosures to their supervisors.\u00a0 But the employees of the FBI have been left behind.  \u00a0  The problem stems from an apparent compromise Congress reached in 1978 as part of the Civil Service Reform Act.\u00a0 There were some in the Congress at the time that wanted to exempt the FBI completely from important whistleblower protections.\u00a0 But this was 1978, only a few years after J. Edgar Hoover\u2019s reign over the FBI ended.\u00a0 It had become very clear in those years that the FBI was not immune to abuses of power. \u00a0So, the FBI got its own provision in the US Code, separate from the protections that apply to most other non-military federal employees.\u00a0 The point was to provide protections similar to those available for other federal employees.\u00a0 But, when the Department wrote its rules, it strictly limited the number of people FBI employees could report to.\u00a0 The Department said that it should not protect disclosures to supervisors because that would mean the same people who are prohibited from engaging in reprisal\u2014supervisors\u2014would receive disclosures.But that was not the intent.The whole point of the whistleblower protection laws is to protect the whistleblower from the person who is going to retaliate against them for disclosing waste, fraud, or abuse.\u00a0 That is typically the person who receives their disclosures\u2014which is almost always a direct supervisor. \u00a0  But the Department\u2019s current rules leave those employees out in the cold.\u00a0 The result? \u00a0As I said, roughly one third of FBI employee reprisal complaints have been dismissed because they did what FBI policy tells them to do.\u00a0 They reported to their chain of command.\u00a0\u00a0 This result is absurd, and not what Congress intended.\u00a0 Congress wanted to encourage disclosures of wrongdoing so that problems could be more easily identified and then fixed.\u00a0 How can you fix problems if your employees do not have a logical, safe way to raise them? \u00a0The answer is that you can\u2019t.Moreover, there are many other federal law enforcement agencies that function under the same whistleblower protections as non-law enforcement agencies.\u00a0 There is no logical reason for the FBI to have unique, separate, and inadequate standards for protecting whistleblower disclosures.So, I and Senator Leahy drafted the FBI Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act. The bill amends the FBI whistleblower statute to clarify, once and for all, that FBI whistleblowers are protected for disclosing waste, fraud, and abuse in their chain of command. \u00a0This change was recommended by the Government Accountability Office in its 2015 review.\u00a0 It is also supported by the Office of Special Counsel, the Department\u2019s Office of the Inspector General, and numerous good government and whistleblower advocacy groups.\u00a0 Even FBI Director James Comey and Attorney General Loretta Lynch have both testified before the Judiciary Committee that disclosures to supervisors should be protected.Now, we passed a version of this bill out of the Judiciary Committee unanimously.\u00a0 That version would have made additional meaningful changes to the FBI whistleblower program.\u00a0 The bill adopted by the Committee would also have addressed the other problems identified in the Justice Department report and the Government Accountability Office study.  Most importantly, the bill that passed the Committee would have dealt with the lengthy delays in the Department\u2019s internal investigation and adjudication process.We also wanted to provide FBI whistleblowers with some relief when the Inspector General finds in their favor.\u00a0 That way, FBI would be encouraged to settle cases instead of wasting taxpayer money defending reprisal.We wanted to require the Department to make its decisions on these cases publicly available.  That way, the FBI would not be the only party in these cases with access to case precedent. \u00a0We also wanted to be sure that FBI employees had opportunities for a fair and independent hearing, and the ability to seek relief from a court of appeals.\u00a0 In that case, at least someone outside the Department would be able to hold the Department and the FBI accountable.But, behind the scenes, the FBI and the Justice Department objected to these provisions\u2014although they never provided any official written comment on the bill.\u00a0 They claimed our reforms would jeopardize national security.But they never, ever said how.In nearly a year, they could not produce one single specific, coherent concern with the process that we developed.\u00a0 They had no response to the fact that classified information has not been an issue in FBI cases:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Reprisal complaints generally can be considered without ever addressing classified information;  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The Department\u2019s own rules tell employees not to file classified information as part of the whistleblower program; and  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0There has never been an FBI case that required the consideration of classified information. \u00a0The FBI even initially objected to the provision recommended by GAO that would protect disclosures to supervisors.\u00a0 The FBI claimed that their employees\u2019 work was too sensitive.\u00a0 But that claim holds no water because employees in the Intelligence Community are protected for reporting wrongdoing to their supervisors. \u00a0Now, we have waited nearly a year for constructive, good faith feedback on our other reforms, but have received none.\u00a0 And unfortunately, we have not been able to reach a unanimous agreement on those issues this year or obtain time for debate and a vote on the floor.I am very disappointed.However, we still found a way forward on one key provision of this legislation.\u00a0 FBI employees have waited long enough to be protected for the same disclosures as everyone else in the federal government.\u00a0 Year after year, decade after decade, so many FBI employees have been retaliated against with no legal recourse.Well, that ends now. \u00a0We can keep working together on other, much-needed reforms, and we will.\u00a0 We are not finished with the great work left to do to improve FBI whistleblower protections.\u00a0 Other issues identified by the Government Accountability Office and by the Justice Department itself still need to be addressed.\u00a0 But with the passage of the amendment to our bill, FBI employees will finally have a remedy if they are retaliated against for reporting waste, fraud, and abuse to their supervisors. Just like every other federal employee in the vast American bureaucracy.  \u00a0  I am thankful for the support and hard work of Senator Leahy on these issues for so many years, and for working so closely with me on this legislation.\u00a0 I also am very thankful for Representative Chaffetz\u2019s leadership on this issue in the House.\u00a0 I know that he and Representatives Jeffries and Cummings have been great advocates for this change.  \u00a0  Most of all, I am grateful for the FBI whistleblowers I have worked with over the years.\u00a0 Folks like Fred Whitehurst, Jane Turner, Michael German, Robert Kobus, Darin Jones, and so many more. \u00a0This would never have come to pass without your leadership, persistence, and personal sacrifice.It has been a long road, but it has been a privilege to travel it with you. \u00a0We are not done yet. \u00a0But now, we are one very big step closer. \u00a0-30-\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-praises-final-passage-water-resources-development-act-2016", "Grassley Praises Final Passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2016", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley today praised the final passage of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, which includes the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016. This bill addresses the civil works program of the Army Corps of Engineers and drinking water and wastewater funding programs through the Environmental Protection Agency. It highlights the flood protection needs in Cedar Rapids and authorizes studies of flood protection in Dubuque and the levees along the upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The Committee on Environment and Public Works will also be sending a letter to the Government Accountability Office requesting a study of the Corps\u2019 methods used to calculate benefit-cost ratios of interest to Iowa communities including Des Moines.\u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s critical to Iowa\u2019s economy to maintain the flow of commerce by improving and updating the country\u2019s water infrastructure,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cI\u2019ve been an advocate for inland waterways and ports for a long period of time. Shippers and consumers depend on the ability to move more than 604 million tons of cargo valued at more than $232 billion on these waterways every year. The nation\u2019s inland waterways system also provides a cost-effective, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly way to move bulk products.\u201d\u00a0Grassley said the legislation also contains a number of provisions to expand and add additional flexibility to programs that assist communities with drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. \u201cMany Iowa communities have major water infrastructure needs, particularly with EPA mandates becoming increasingly burdensome,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0Specific Iowa-related provisions included in the bill are:\u00a0\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Cedar River, Cedar Rapids.\u00a0The bill states that the Corps of Engineers shall expedite the completion of this authorized project for flood damage reduction and flood risk management.\u00a0The Cedar Rapids project is listed as one of nine projects to be expedited by the Corps. The other projects are Chicagoland Underflow Plan, IL; Comite River, LA; Amite River and Tributaries, LA, East Baton Rouge Parish Watershed; Asension Parish, LA; East Baton Rouge Parish, LA; Iberville Parish, LA; Livingston Parish, LA; and Pointe Coupee Parish, LA.\u00a0Cedar Rapids endured a 500-year flood in 2008 and faced near record flooding again this year. After the 2008 floods, the City of Cedar Rapids worked with the Corps of Engineers to develop a project to address the flood risk. Congress authorized the project in the Water Resources and Reform Act of 2014. To date, no construction funds for this project have been budgeted. This provision clearly shows the intent of Congress for this project to be a priority at the Corp of Engineers.\u00a0\u201cI have constantly worked with the Environment and Public Works Committee and other committees in the Senate to address the flood reduction needs in Cedar Rapids since the 2008 floods,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cI helped get this project authorized in the last WRDA bill, and I\u2019m glad to have helped lead the effort to include language to highlight the importance of the project in this bill. This year\u2019s flood event proves that it would be wiser to build the permanent flood protection structure instead of building temporary emergency structures, which cost millions and lead to the federal government spending billions in emergency measures over time.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Dubuque.\u00a0The bill authorizes a study to determine the feasibility of modifying the flood protection system to increase the level of flood protection and reduce flood damages.\u00a0\u201cDubuque is actively working on addressing all of its flood protection needs,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cThis study will assist the city\u2019s efforts by determining if additional protection or modifications are needed along the Mississippi River.\u201d\u00a0\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.\u00a0The bill authorizes a study of the riverine areas located within the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois River basins to identify the risks and vulnerabilities of those areas to increased flood damages.\u00a0\u00a0This study will evaluate the flood damage risks on a system-wide rather than local basis. This review was recommended by the Corps in a 2008 study and by the Secretary in a 2009 letter to Congress to address the fact that a rehabilitation of a levee at a single location often cannot be cost-justified but each location is an integral part of a levee system that provides essential flood protection benefits.\u00a0\u00a0The Chairman and Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Committee will be sending a letter to the Government Accountability Office requesting a study, asked for by Senators Ernst and Grassley in the Senate version of the WRDA bill then supported by the Iowa delegation in the House, on the methodology and performance metrics used by the Corps to calculate cost-benefit ratios and evaluate construction projects.\u00a0\u201cI am very concerned with how projects in Iowa, such as Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, and across the country fare in the Corps calculations of benefit-cost ratios to determine the federal interest in construction projects,\u201d said Grassley. \u201cIt should not be only urban centers or beach front property with high property values receiving federal assistance and the expertise of the Corps.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Earlier this year, Senator Grassley and Ernst sent letters to the Corps leadership on both the Cedar Rapids flood protection project and how the benefit-cost ratios are calculated. The letters can be viewed by clicking\u00a0here\u00a0and\u00a0here.\u00a0\u201cPassing this bill is important for Iowa,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cIt builds on the reforms included in WRDA 2014 and keeps the predictability of enacting a WRDA bill every two years.\u201d-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-grassley-bill-restoring-watchdogs%E2%80%99-authority-access-%E2%80%9Call-records%E2%80%9D", "Senate Passes Grassley Bill Restoring Watchdogs Authority to Access All Records", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "IG Empowerment Act Now Awaits President\u2019s Signature to become LawWASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Senate today passed Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley\u2019s legislation to expand tools for inspectors general to identify and address fraud, waste and misconduct in government. \u00a0The Inspector General Empowerment Act restores Congress\u2019 intent to guarantee inspectors general access to \u201call records\u201d of the agencies they oversee, overturning a 2015 Obama administration legal memo roundly criticized by both Republicans and Democrats. \u00a0The House of Representatives passed identical legislation earlier this week. \u00a0The bill must now be signed by the President before becoming law.\u201cIf we\u2019ve learned one thing in the last year, it\u2019s that government needs more transparency and oversight, not less. \u00a0Inspectors general are our eyes and ears in government. \u00a0They are on the front lines in the fight against fraud, waste and misconduct, but they can\u2019t do their job if they can\u2019t access the necessary government documents. \u00a0This bill makes sure that they have the tools and access they need to safeguard our tax dollars, improve efficiency, and tackle misconduct. \u00a0It also reinforces Congress\u2019 intent to grant IGs access to all agency records in the course of their work, a longstanding authority that the bureaucracy has gone great lengths to resist,\u201d Grassley said.The Inspector General Act of 1978 authorizes each inspector general to access \u201call records\u201d in their agency\u2019s possession in the conduct of an oversight investigation or audit. However, on July 20, 2015, the Justice Department\u2019s Office of Legal Counsel issued an opinion arguing that other provisions generally restricting the \u201cdisclosure\u201d of certain kinds of information override the \u201call records\u201d provision of the Inspector General Act. \u00a0The Inspector General Empowerment Act reverses the flawed legal opinion, which several agencies have cited when withholding or delaying access to documents inspectors general needed to perform thorough and complete investigations.The key provision of the bill adds language explicitly requiring agencies to provide \u201ctimely\u201d access to all records \u201cnotwithstanding any other provision of law.\u201dThe Inspector General Empowerment Act contains additional provisions to improve the independence of inspectors general and to equip them with the tools to more effectively and efficiently identify and address waste, fraud and misconduct within the government. \u00a0For more information, see a bill summary.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/weeklyreport/bill-improve-veterans-crisis-line-signed-law", "Bill to Improve the Veterans Crisis Line Signed into Law", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Bill to Improve the Veterans Crisis Line Signed into Law\u00a0\nHere at home in Iowa, I make it my mission to meet with and listen to folks in all of the 16 counties of the Third Congressional District every month. I believe the best way to serve the Iowans I work for is by being consistently available, and I stand always ready and willing to listen to the issues, concerns, frustrations and ideas of folks in our state.\nWhen I visit with our veterans, service members, and the organizations which exist to support them, I hear too often about the problems plaguing veterans\u2019 mental health services, including the Veterans Crisis Line, which is the confidential, toll free hotline for veterans seeking suicide prevention and crisis resources help from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) responders.\nThis critical mental health tool for our veterans has come under fire after veterans in crisis received busy signals, answering machines, or no answer at all, when seeking help they desperately needed at a moment of crisis. The Government Accountability Office (GAO), a nonpartisan government watchdog organization,\u00a0released a report\u00a0confirming the problems, as nearly 30 percent of text messages they sent as a test to the Veterans Crisis Line went unanswered. A report from the VA Inspector General, which is the investigative arm of the VA, disappointingly reported the same issues and failures.\nBecause our veterans deserve better, I introduced the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act, legislation seeking critical improvements to the Veterans Crisis Line. This legislation requires the VA identify what is causing the failures and openly tell us what improvements and fixes are needed, to ensure that every veteran\u2019s call is answered and that they are given the help they need.\nIn a victory for our veterans, the president signed this bill into law on November 28, 2016. The No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives in September by a vote of 357-0 and was later approved unanimously by the U.S. Senate.\nThe support of this legislation has been widespread, and I am pleased this this legislation has been enacted.\u00a0However, our work continues.\u00a0I have already met with a member of the president-elect\u2019s transition team to lay out the priorities for this new law and I will continue to monitor the progress of Veterans Crisis Line improvements. Because our veterans deserve better, I am fighting for the additional resources and changes needed to ensure that no call goes unanswered.\u00a0\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/qa-over-counter-hearing-aids", "Q&A: Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With U.S. Senator Chuck GrassleyQ:\u00a0 Why are you working to ensure certain types of hearing aids are available over the counter?A:\u00a0 Throughout my public service, I make it a number one priority to listen to the people of Iowa. Representative government is a two-way street and it\u2019s my job to make sure government works for \u201cwe the people\u201d not the other way around. Too many people feel their concerns and points of view are unheard in Washington. Pulling the curtain back on bloated bureaucracies and rolling back red tape and excessive regulation will help improve accountability, solve problems and better serve Americans in their daily lives. That includes working to make it easier and more affordable for the millions of aging Americans who live with hearing loss to get hearing aids if they choose to do so.Consider that about 40 percent of Americans age 60 and older live with hearing loss. And yet, of those, less than 20 percent use a hearing aid. Why would millions of American adults with impaired hearing avoid assistive medical technology? This is rather surprising because hearing loss affects our ability to participate in conversations, our work productivity, and even traffic safety. Hearing loss can contribute to social isolation among seniors. Iowans tell me that a couple of factors influence their decision to take a pass on hearing aids: They are too expensive and inconvenient to obtain in the first place. The average price for a hearing aid is $2,000 per device.Until recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required a medical evaluation to obtain a prescription or a signed waiver declining a medical exam before a person could buy a hearing aid. The good news is that the FDA recently agreed that this outdated policy is unnecessary. Making hearing aids more affordable and accessible to people with mild to moderate hearing loss arguably would be a game-changer for roughly 30 million Americans who may benefit from assistive hearing technology. It\u2019s bewildering that a consumer can buy non-prescription reading glasses over the counter but relatively simple hearing aids are not available for sale off the shelf. The FDA\u2019s policy change is supported by the National Academies of Sciences, a group of the most knowledgeable doctors in the country. In its recent report, it found \u201cno evidence or clinically meaningful benefit\u201d to the decades-long requirement that required a medical evaluation or signed waiver prior to buying or using a hearing aid.\u00a0 Additionally, the President\u2019s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology supports this approach.When I learn about a problem where I can help make a difference, I get to work. That\u2019s why I introduced a bipartisan bill, S. 9, with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), called the \u201cOver-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act.\u201d It would make permanent the policy change the FDA announced in December and direct the FDA to ensure the safe use of these products. Putting consumers in the driver\u2019s seat by expanding choice and competition will help drive down prices and drive up the quality of life for millions of Americans.\u00a0 When the federal bureaucracy takes commonsense steps to remove unnecessary red tape, it\u2019s good news all around. I\u2019ll keep working to remove other regulatory barriers so quality health care and medical technology are more affordable and accessible to all Americans.Q:\u00a0 How can we apply lessons learned from this commonsense approach to other areas of health care?A:\u00a0 Robust competition makes good things happen in the free market. It brings us innovative technology that improves our daily lives, grows the economy, creates jobs and increases productivity. Technology is transforming sectors of the economy and how we work, communicate, eat, heal and live, from agriculture to energy to health care. Removing outdated federal regulations standing in the way of making safe hearing aids available for American adults is a commonsense way to bring health care costs down in one area.\u00a0 Policymakers can apply this approach to other areas of health care to help foster better care, better outcomes and better value for American consumers and taxpayers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-fellow-senators-urge-va-comply-2010-law-protecting-veterans-exorbitant", "Grassley, Fellow Senators Urge the VA to Comply with 2010 Law Protecting Veterans from Exorbitant Emergency Room Bills", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Please note: \u00a0Senator Grassley has heard from Iowans who have had this problem where the Department of Veterans Affairs won\u2019t pay for emergency care because the veterans have Medicare even though Medicare doesn\u2019t cover all of the cost, whereas veterans with no other insurance would have it fully covered. \u00a0\u201cCommon sense dictates that the VA fix this. \u00a0That\u2019s what Congress directed the VA to do in enacting legislation in 2010,\u201d Senator Grassley said. \u00a0WASHINGTON\u2014 Led by U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), 22 senators, including six from the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, wrote to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert McDonald to urge him to comply with the Emergency Care Fairness Act (ECFA). The ECFA was enacted in 2010 and directed the VA to cover veterans with private health insurance when that insurance doesn\u2019t cover the full amount of non-VA emergency care. Yet since 2010, the VA has not complied with the law, denying hundreds of thousands of veterans\u2019 reimbursement claims for emergency care.\u00a0Earlier this year, a federal court ordered the VA to write regulations that comply with the ECFA. In addition to urging the VA to comply with the law, the senators also requested that the agency fix its mistake and re-open all previously-denied claims.\u00a0\u201cCongress\u2019s clear intent in passing the ECFA was to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished to veterans in non-department facilities,\u201d wrote the senators. \u201cSpecifically, congressional intent was to require the VA to act as a secondary payer for emergency treatment costs not covered by the veteran\u2019s third-party insurance. It is evident that the VA has ignored congressional intent. Most troubling is the fact that those who are most affected by the VA\u2019s non-compliance with the ECFA are our elderly veterans, many of whom are living on fixed incomes and have limited resources to pay medical bills.\u201dIn addition to Rounds and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Mark Kirk (R-Ill.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.). The letter is supported by The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and the Paralyzed Veterans of America.Full text of the letter is below:The Honorable Robert McDonald  Secretary of Veterans Affairs  Department of Veterans Affairs  810 Vermont Avenue, NW  Washington, D.C. 20420Dear Secretary McDonald:We write today to express our support for the Veterans Emergency Care Fairness Act of 2009 (ECFA). Six years after enactment of the ECFA, our nation\u2019s veterans continue to bear the burden of emergency treatment costs not covered by veterans\u2019 third-party insurance. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs\u2019 (VA) continued denial of these claims is deeply troubling.\u00a0Congress\u2019s clear intent in passing the ECFA was to expand veteran eligibility for reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished to veterans in non-department facilities. Specifically, congressional intent was to require the VA to act as a secondary payer for emergency treatment costs not covered by the veteran\u2019s third-party insurance. It is evident that the VA has ignored congressional intent. Most troubling is the fact that those who are most affected by the VA\u2019s non-compliance with the ECFA are our elderly veterans, many of whom are living on fixed incomes and have limited resources to pay medical bills. Often, these veterans find themselves dealing with collection agencies as a result of emergency care received in the community. This potentially increases stress for these veterans, causes them to lose faith in the VA and keeps them from seeking future medical attention out of fear of acquiring additional medical bills for which they would be financially responsible. \u00a0As you are aware, on April 8, 2016, in the case of \u201cStaab v. Secretary McDonald,\u201d the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims \u00a0agreed with the appellant\u2019s contention that the VA\u2019s application of 38 U.S.C. \u00a7 1725 frustrates the intent of Congress to reimburse veterans who are not wholly covered by a health-plan contract or other third-party recourse. In its decision, the court ruled that \u201cCongress clearly intended that the VA be responsible for the cost of the emergency treatment which exceeds the amount payable or paid by the third-party insurer.\u201d The court further found the VA\u2019s regulations regarding the ECFA to be invalid and wholly inconsistent with the statute. As a result, the court ruled that 38 C.F.R. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a7 17.1002(f) is held invalid and directed it to be set aside.\u00a0Based upon this ruling, we strongly urge you to bring the VA into compliance with P.L. 111-137 and to amend any policy, regulation or other barrier that results in denial of veterans\u2019 claims for reimbursement for non-department emergency care. \u00a0We further urge you to re-open all previous claims of veterans that were denied because of the VA\u2019s non-compliance with congressional intent and the law. \u00a0Thank you for your attention to our concerns regarding this important issue. We look forward to working closely with you to fully serve the veterans of our great nation. \u00a0Sincerely,\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-sets-hearing-date-attorney-general-nominee", "Grassley Sets Hearing Date for Attorney General Nominee", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u2014The Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Chuck Grassley, today announced that the hearing for Attorney General nominee, Senator Jeff Sessions, will be held on January 10-11, 2017.Sessions returned the committee questionnaire today, and after speaking with incoming Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein, Grassley scheduled the hearings consistent with historical practice.\u201cI appreciate Senator Sessions\u2019 prompt response.\u00a0 We will begin reviewing his questionnaire and going through the documents so we\u2019re ready to hold a fair and thorough hearing on Jan. 10,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0 \u201cWe all know Senator Sessions to be an honorable man who has held public office for more than 20 years.\u00a0 I look forward to hearing from him next month.\u201dThe hearings for the last four Attorneys General lasted one to two days with anywhere from three to nine outside witnesses testifying at each.\u00a0 The hearing for the nominee for Attorney General for every new president dating back to President Dwight Eisenhower has been held before the Presidential Inauguration, with the exception of President George H.W. Bush who retained President Ronald Reagan's Attorney General who had been confirmed five months earlier. Attorney General Eric Holder\u2019s hearing was held the week prior to President Barack Obama\u2019s inauguration, 31 days after the committee received his questionnaire.\u00a0 Sessions' hearing will occur 32 days after he returned his questionnaire, affording adequate time for committee members to prepare for the hearing.Grassley sent the questionnaire to Sessions on November 22, four days after \u200ePresident-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate him.\u00a0 Sessions returned his questionnaire to the committee a week earlier than former Attorney General Holder, who returned his questionnaire to the Committee on December 15.\u00a0 The questionnaire and other documents will be available on the Judiciary Committee website. \u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-tester-bill-slash-bureaucratic-waste-abuse-heads-presidents-desk", "Grassley, Tester Bill to Slash Bureaucratic Waste, Abuse Heads to President's Desk", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 After introducing their bipartisan bill back in January to increase oversight and eliminate wasteful federal spending, Senators Jon Tester and Chuck Grassley today celebrated the passage of their Administrative Leave Act, which will now head to the President\u2019s desk for signature.\u00a0\u201cI came to Washington to clean this place up and this bill is a responsible step toward accomplishing that goal,\u201d Tester said. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will save taxpayers millions, make government work better for the people of Montana, and protect workers\u2019 rights.\u201d  \u201cThis is a red letter day for everybody who cares about good government,\u201d Grassley said. \u00a0\u201cPaid leave shouldn\u2019t be a crutch for management to avoid making tough personnel decisions or a club for wrongdoers to use against whistleblowers. \u00a0 I hope the reforms will become law as soon as possible, and I look forward to overseeing their implementation.\u201dTester and Grassley introduced the Administrative Leave Act after a GAO Report found that between 2011 and 2013, a total of 57,000 employees across five federal agencies had been put on paid administrative leave for a month or more. Agencies spent a total of $3.1 billion on paid administrative leave during this time. This occurred, in part, because of agencies\u2019 varying interpretation and use of existing administrative leave authorities.Even worse, the report found that 263 employees had been on paid administrative leave for a year or more, costing the federal government a staggering $31 million in salary payments. Subsequent investigations determined that the majority of employees put on administrative leave for a year or more were out pending investigations for misconduct or fitness of duty. \u00a0The legislation will prevent this kind of systematic waste and abuse by:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Limiting paid administrative leave to a maximum of ten days a year.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Creating new types of leave\u2014including investigative and notice leave\u2014that would be available for the agency to use while its investigating misconduct or taking action against that employee. These new types of leave would finally hold agency managers and leadership accountable for placing employees on extended paid leave.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Requiring executive agencies to keep records related to the use of extended paid leave.\u00a0\u201cThese commonsense reforms will help managers across the federal government provide a more efficient and effective workplace,\u201d said Greg Stanford, Director of Government Affairs at the Federal Managers Association. \u201cThe Administrative Leave Act establishes clear timelines, definitions, and new leave categories, which will bring much-needed uniformity, transparency, and accountability to federal agencies, while reducing waste in the federal government.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\"Because of Senator Tester\u2019s leadership, a thoughtful, targeted solution will be implemented to alleviate the problem of administrative leave misuse and abuse, while maintaining agency flexibility, due process and employee rights,\" said Bill Valdez, President of the Senior Executives Association. \"Misuse of paid administrative leave has long been a problem that only served to waste taxpayer resources and unduly hold public servants in a fruitless limbo status, denying them rights to challenge agency determinations. We are thankful to Senators Tester, Grassley, Johnson and Carper for their bipartisan leadership on this issue and to the countless others who have supported and voted in favor of reform.\u201dTester has been one of the Senate\u2019s staunchest advocates against government waste and corruption. \u00a0Tester slammed the Pentagon earlier this week for hiding $125 billion in administrative waste, demanding a full, public audit of the Defense Department\u2019s budget. \u00a0This came days after Tester had called on Congress to immediately fill the eight vacant Inspector General positions responsible for holding federal government agencies accountable.In December 2015, Grassley released a report analyzing 18 agencies\u2019 responses to his inquiries on paid administrative leave and endorsed the report\u2019s recommendations to crack down on the practice. \u00a0 Grassley is well-known for beefing up whistleblower protections and incentives to come forward to expose waste, fraud and abuse. \u00a0The whistleblower provisions he authored that amended the federal False Claims Act have returned more than $48 billion to the federal Treasury that otherwise would have been lost to fraud. \u00a0Similarly, Grassley wrote the provisions improving the IRS whistleblower office to identify big-dollar tax fraud, leading to the recovery of more than $3 billion in taxes that otherwise would have been lost to fraud. \u00a0 He helped to write the statute improving incentives for whistleblowers to come forward about securities fraud.\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-urges-president-elect-trump-reverse-obama-admins-harmful-actions", "Grassley Urges President-elect Trump to Reverse Obama Admin's Harmful Actions", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Prepared Senate Floor Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of IowaChairman, Senate Judiciary CommitteeReversing Obama administration\u2019s Harmful Executive Actions on Day OneDecember 9, 2016For the last eight years, we\u2019ve seen President Obama\u2019s administration take action after action and do it without regard for concerns expressed by the American people or their elected representatives in Congress. \u00a0That may amount to a great deal of unconstitutional or at least contrary-to-statute executive overreach.The Obama administration used executive fiat to push sweeping regulations with little thought about the damage to American jobs. \u00a0It has repeatedly stretched its authority beyond limits set by Congress. It has twisted the law and even the Constitution itself to justify this executive overreach. \u00a0And despite early promises of transparency, it has kept the American people and Congress in the dark about many of its most significant decisions.Americans are right to be frustrated with what they see as more unnecessary burdens and unchecked abuses being handed down by an out-of-touch bureaucracy. \u00a0And in November, they made their voices heard.\u00a0President-elect Trump has said that he intends to roll back the mess of harmful regulations and executive power grabs of the last eight years. \u00a0He is certainly going to have his hands full, but there\u2019s plenty he can do to begin the process on January 20th.President Obama\u2019s tenure has brought about an unprecedented expansion of the regulatory state. \u00a0By some estimates, bureaucratic red tape now places a $2 trillion burden on our nation\u2019s economy. I don\u2019t doubt that there is some good intention behind just about every new rule. \u00a0But, the notion that so-called experts in Washington, D.C., need to regulate every aspect of our lives doesn\u2019t make much sense to many of the Iowans I talk to. \u00a0They are hoping that a President Trump will bring common sense to Washington, D.C.Take, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s Waters of the United States Rule. It\u2019s often referred to by the acronym WOTUS. \u00a0This rule seeks to expand what the government can regulate under the Clean Water Act. \u00a0Congress intentionally limited EPA\u2019s reach under the law to navigable waterways. \u00a0But the WOTUS rule would subject 97 percent of the land in Iowa to EPA\u2019s bureaucratic burdens. \u00a0Ninety-seven percent of the land to be regulated by E.P.A. Bureaucracy is just an impossible situation.\u00a0Think about that. \u00a0Every homeowner, contractor or farmer would need to seek a federal permit for projects requiring the simple task of moving dirt, even if it is nowhere near an actual body of water. \u00a0That means more paperwork, more time wasted and more money spent on federal permits for activities that Congress never intended the federal government to regulate.A bipartisan majority in both houses of Congress has voiced its disapproval of the WOTUS rule and a federal appeals court has placed a nationwide stay on its implementation. \u00a0Yet, I continue to hear concerns that, regardless of the Supreme Court case, some in the EPA are moving forward with the rule\u2019s implementation, causing unnecessary fear and confusion among farmers and landowners. \u00a0\u00a0On day one, President Trump should direct his administration to stop defending the WOTUS rule in the federal courts where it\u2019s now held up. \u00a0He should also direct his EPA to immediately stop implementing or enforcing the rule while the agency begins the rulemaking process to take if off the books once and for all.It\u2019s not just official regulations that have sparked concern over the last eight years. \u00a0The Obama administration has also used executive actions, agency guidance documents and legal interpretations to push its agenda, leaving Congress and the American people in the dark. \u00a0Often, this has had disturbing results.In 2014, the Obama administration acted unilaterally to release five senior-level Taliban commanders who were being held at Guantanamo Bay in exchange for Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl.Despite requirements in the law, the Administration never notified Congress prior to this prisoner transfer. The law requires the administration to provide Congress with:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0a detailed statement of the basis for the release,\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0an explanation for why it is in our national security interests, and\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0a plan to prevent the prisoners from returning to the battlefield. \u00a0Instead, Congress heard only crickets.The administration provided no notice to Congress. \u00a0No legal justification for the release. \u00a0And no plan to prevent these Taliban commanders from re-entering a fight that has already spilled so much blood of America\u2019s sons and daughters.One reporter said that the Taliban has been more transparent about this exchange than the Obama administration. And even the non-partisan Government Accountability Office later concluded that the administration acted illegally. Well, it's pretty clear, the law says you've got to give Congress 30 days\u2019 notice. They didn't give any notice.There were \u2013 and still are \u2013 serious questions about whether releasing these detainees from Guantanamo was a good idea. \u00a0So I asked the administration to disclose the legal advice the Department of Justice apparently provided that justified its failure to notify Congress in a timely way \u2013 in other words, a justification for ignoring the law. \u00a0But it refused to do so. \u00a0The public deserves a full and transparent accounting of why the administration believed it could disregard the law. \u00a0On day one, President Trump should order the Justice Department to produce any legal advice it concocted to excuse the Obama administration from its obligation to notify Congress of this decision 30 days before the release, because that\u2019s what the law says.Unfortunately, this isn\u2019t the only legal opinion that the Obama administration has used to avoid scrutiny of its actions. \u00a0The Justice Department also brewed up a ludicrous legal opinion to block government watchdogs from accessing federal records needed in the course of their oversight. \u00a0And if this year has taught us anything, it\u2019s that government needs more oversight, not less.\u00a0It\u2019s unbelievable that a handful of unelected bureaucrats would try to defy the will of this Congress and the people it represents by ignoring the law. Unfortunately, it hasn\u2019t stopped there.\u00a0The Obama administration practically treats a Congressional subpoena as if it were a Freedom of Information Act request\u2014rather than a constitutionally mandated inquiry from a co-equal branch of government. This very issue is being debated in the courts. \u00a0But it\u2019s not just Congress that can\u2019t get information. \u00a0The press and private citizens have had their Freedom of Information Act requests regularly met with long delays if they get a response at all. \u00a0You know it\u2019s bad when the New York Times calls this White House the most secretive in more than two decades.President Trump should take steps to reverse this trend of more secrecy in government, because more transparency in government will bring more accountability. \u00a0On day one, he should direct his agency heads to cooperate with Congressional inquiries, inspector general investigations and FOIA requests. And he should empower government whistleblowers.Whistleblowers expose facts about wrongdoing and incompetence inside the vast federal bureaucracy, often at the risk of their own careers, reputations and even health. \u00a0Without whistleblowers, Americans would be none the wiser that:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0the Justice Department walked guns that put law enforcement agents in jeopardy. \u00a0That\u2019s the Fast and Furious investigation that I conducted,\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0the EB-5 investor visa program is riddled with fraud, or  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0agencies spend tens of millions of taxpayer dollars every year to pay employees under investigation for misconduct to sit at home on paid leave.\u00a0Information provided by whistleblowers under the Securities and Exchange Commission whistleblower program has brought in more than $584 million in financial sanctions. \u00a0The Internal Revenue Service has collected more than $3 billion in tax revenue since 2007 thanks to whistleblowers under a piece of legislation I got passed. \u00a0Since I pushed to empower and protect whistleblowers under the False Claims Act in 1986, the federal government has recovered more than $48 billion in taxpayer money lost to fraud. \u00a0Now that is a good deal.But these brave employees often face retaliation from within their own ranks. If President Trump is serious about fixing the government bureaucracy, he should empower these patriotic citizens to help us identify fraud, abuse and misconduct so we can get this government working again for all Americans.As I have done for each president since taking office, I call on President Trump to hold a Rose Garden ceremony honoring whistleblowers. \u00a0That will set the tone from the top that the new Commander in Chief has the backs of these soldiers for good government that we call whistleblowers.Of course, this is far from an exhaustive list. \u00a0The common thread in all this is that the Obama administration frequently failed to take care that the laws be faithfully executed, as is required by our Constitution. \u00a0And when that doesn't happen and Congress lets a president get away with it, then we aren't upholding our oath to the Constitution, which says basically that Congress passes the law. They ought to be a check on the executive branch to see that the laws are faithfully executed. So, a person coming to town to \u201cdrain the swamp,\u201d a person by the name of Trump, should prioritize these failures and begin to restore the executive branch to its proper place in government consistent with the checks and balances outlined in our Constitution.These actions will help him to make good on his pledge to fix the federal bureaucracy do what he said last night on television in Des Moines, Iowa: Put Americans first.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-watchdog-right-review-misclassifications-under-medicaid-drug-rebate", "Grassley: Watchdog is Right to Review Misclassifications Under Medicaid Drug Rebate Program", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In September, Sen. Chuck Grassley and fellow senators asked the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services to examine the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services\u2019 (CMS) oversight of the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. \u00a0After the letter, Grassley continued to push for OIG involvement. \u00a0Grassley learned that CMS knew in 2009 in that EpiPens and two other drugs were misclassified under the program, leading to taxpayer overpayments by hundreds of millions of dollars or more. \u00a0 The OIG confirmed that it will conduct three new reviews of the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. \u00a0 Grassley made the following comment on this development.\u201cThe more we learn about the misclassifications, the more we know this program is in dire need of proper oversight. \u00a0 It\u2019s unclear whether CMS took any action between 2009 and now to get the EpiPen classification back on track after being told about the misclassification. \u00a0If CMS did nothing, that\u2019s a dereliction of duty to the taxpayers. \u00a0The OIG is right to look at this program and help determine whether it works or doesn\u2019t work as intended.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-grassley-sponsored-legislation-caps-paid-leave-following-office", "ICYMI: Grassley-Sponsored Legislation Caps Paid Leave Following Office Investigation of Agency Abuse", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Last year, Senator Grassley released \u00a0the results of his investigation into federal agencies\u2019 use of paid administrative leave and endorsed the report\u2019s recommendations to rein in overuse of the largely unproductive, expensive practice. Grassley then sponsored legislation to reform federal paid leave and put a cap on the practice. Following Senate passage, the Grassley legislation is now headed to President Obama\u2019s desk for his signature. Yesterday, Grassley welcomed the passage of the reforms limiting paid administrative leave.From today\u2019s Washington Post: \u201c\u2026an investigation by Sen. Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) found that the government\u2019s largest agencies paid out more than $80 million in 2014 for thousands of employees to sit home for a month and longer while they faced allegations of misconduct. \u2018Paid leave shouldn\u2019t be a crutch for management to avoid making tough personnel decisions or a club for wrongdoers to use against whistleblowers,\u2019 Grassley, one of the legislation\u2019s four Senate sponsors, said in a statement.\u201d (Lisa Rein, \u201cSidelined federal workers used to get paid indefinitely. Congress just capped it at 10 days.,\u201d Washington Post, 12/9/16)-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/sens-grassley-moran-roberts-press-obama-administration-answers-criminal-immigrant", "Sens. Grassley, Moran & Roberts Press Obama Administration for Answers on Criminal Immigrant", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Man previously convicted of illegal re-entry into United States is charged in Kansas with sex crime against a childWASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), along with U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Pat Roberts (R-Kan.), today called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson to provide information about a criminal immigrant who was charged in September with the rape of a child in Kansas. In a letter to Sec. Johnson, the senators request Tomas Martinez-Maldonado\u2019s full criminal and immigration history. They inquire about why he was able to re-enter and remain in the country despite his unlawful status and previous felony conviction for illegal re-entry into the United States.\u201cThis is an extremely disturbing case,\u201d the senators wrote in the letter. \u201cIn order for Congress to better understand the circumstances that led to this alleged rape of a child, we request information about Martinez-Maldonado\u2019s criminal and immigration history, and why he was able to enter and remain in the country despite his unlawful status.\u201dThe Associated Press reported in October 2016 that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said Martinez-Maldonado had been deported from the United States 10 times since 2010.Full text of the letter follows:December 9, 2016The Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary \u00a0  Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528Dear Secretary Johnson:On September 30, a criminal complaint was filed against Tomas Martinez-Maldonado who was arrested and charged with the rape of a child on a coach bus in Kansas. According to the Associated Press, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that Martinez-Maldonado was a citizen of Mexico unlawfully present in the United States and has been deported back to Mexico ten times since 2010. ICE also reportedly said the suspect has a prior federal felony conviction for illegal re-entry into the United States.This is an extremely disturbing case. In order for Congress to better understand the circumstances that led to this alleged rape of a child, we request information about Martinez-Maldonado\u2019s criminal and immigration history, and why he was able to enter and remain in the country despite his unlawful status. As soon as possible, but no later than December 23, please provide us with the following information:\u00a01.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The alien registration number for Martinez-Maldonado, his complete alien file (A-file), including any temporary files, working files, or Service Center files, and all documents and items contained in them, all reports or notifications generated by DHS or in its possession about him, whether currently in written or electronic form, including, but not limited to, the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Executive Summary, criminal history or immigration summaries, detainers or requests for notification, I-213(s), and Notice(s) to Appear or other charging documents created to seek his removal from the United States.  2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please identify each and every date on which Martinez-Maldonado was encountered by a law enforcement agency in the United States, to include criminal and civil arrests, the nature of the charge, the jurisdiction where the arrest occurred, the disposition of that charge, the date(s) on which he was released from the custody of that law enforcement agency, and the reason(s) for the release. \u00a0Please provide the arrest and disposition documentation for each encounter.  3.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How and when did Martinez-Maldonado enter the United States? Was he ever served with a Notice to Appear? \u00a0Was it filed with an immigration court? Please explain.  4.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Did Martinez-Maldonado ever apply for any immigration benefits, including deferred action? \u00a0If so, was any application approved? \u00a0Please provide copies of any application that may have been submitted, whether or not adjudicated.  5.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Had Martinez-Maldonado ever been removed previously? \u00a0If so, when and to where was he removed?  6.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Has ICE issued a detainer or request for notification to any entity regarding Martinez-Maldonado? \u00a0Have you communicated with the local law enforcement regarding this case? Please explain.  7.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Was Martinez-Maldonado a member of, or associated with any criminal gang? \u00a0Please explain.  8.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Has the victim, or the victim\u2019s immediate family, been contacted by officials at ICE? \u00a0Please provide details.Your cooperation to provide details regarding this case as soon as possible is appreciated. We look forward to your response and urge you to contact Kathy Nuebel Kovarik at (202) 224-5225, Trent Sterneck at (202) 224-6521, or Emily Patt at (202) 224-3113 if you have any questions. \u00a0Thank you for your cooperation.Sincerely,\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\u00a0Charles E. Grassley  Chairman  Committee on the Judiciary\u00a0Jerry Moran\u00a0U.S. Senator\u00a0Pat RobertsU.S. Senator\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394967", "Loebsacks Efforts to Expedite Flood Protections in Cedar Rapids Pass House", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "IA", "Dave Loebsack", "L000565", "loebsack.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the House passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (S. 216), which included provisions to expedite the construction of flood protection measures in Cedar Rapids, among other water infrastructure projects. The Cedar Rapids flood control measures were previously authorized, but have not yet been built. Additionally, this legislation authorizes Corps of Engineers funding for improvements to ports, waterways and projects tied to flood protection, drinking water, dams and levees, and environmental restoration.\u201cI am pleased that the bill includes provisions to expedite the much needed flood protection measures to keep homes, businesses and communities safe in Cedar Rapids. The Floods of 2008 devastated much of downtown Cedar Rapids, which still does not have adequate protection to keep them safe from future flooding. \u201cThe legislation also includes projects that will create jobs and have a direct impact on our economy. Iowa farmers, manufacturers, businesses and local economies rely on the Mississippi River infrastructure. It is clear that the locks and dams along the Mississippi River are deteriorating and significantly harming the economic development in the region. This bill is very important to Iowa, not just for the locks and dams, but also for much of our flood protection and Army Corps projects that are needed to keep our communities safe.\u201d Specific provisions contained in this legislation, include:\r\n\r\nCedar Rapids Flood Control\r\nAn amendment authored by Congressman Loebsack and Congressman Blum was included that directs the Corps of Engineers to expedite the completion of the previously authorized flood damage reduction, and flood risk management project on the Cedar River. Upper Mississippi Study\r\nThe bill includes a provision that instructs the Corps to conduct a study of areas located within the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois River basins to identify the risks and vulnerability of those areas to increased flood damages. \r\n\r\nLead Crisis in Flint\r\nThis bill authorizes a $100 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, a $20 million loan from the Water Infrastructure Financing Innovation Act fund and $50 million for related health programs.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://blum.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/water-infrastructure-improvements-nation-winn-act-passes-us-house", "Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WINN) Act Passes U.S. House", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Rod Blum", "B001294", "blum.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC - The House of Representatives today passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WINN) Act of 2016 that includes Congressman Rod Blum\u2019s bipartisan amendment calling on the Administration to expedite the Cedar Rapids flood protection project that was authorized by Congress in 2014. WIIN passed with strong bipartisan support, with 360 yes votes and 61 no votes.\n\u201cThe successful passage of WIIN that includes our Cedar Rapids amendment is another positive step in our ongoing work to encourage the Administration to prioritize the Cedar Rapids flood protection project,\u201d said Congressman Blum. \u201cWith two major floods in just 8 years, it is clear that this project is vital to protecting the Cedar Rapids community and I hope the Administration acts quickly to fund the project that Congress has now approved twice.\u201d\nVideo: Rep. Blum speaks on House floor in support of the Cedar Rapids project\nMore information on the Blum Cedar Rapids amendment can be found here: https://blum.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-blum-introduces-measure-expedite-cedar-rapids-flood-project\nRod Blum is the Republican Congressman in Iowa\u2019s 1st District. He is a member of the Budget and Oversight & Government Reform Committees.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://blum.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=490", "Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WINN) Act Passes U.S. House", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Rod Blum", "B001294", "blum.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WINN) Act Passes U.S. House \r\n   \r\n    \r\n      Legislation includes Blum amendment to expedite Cedar Rapids flood protection \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington, DC,\r\n        December 8, 2016\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      The House of Representatives today passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WINN) Act of 2016 that includes Congressman Rod Blum\u2019s bipartisan amendment calling on the Administration to expedite the Cedar Rapids flood protection project that was authorized by Congress in 2014. WIIN passed with strong bipartisan support, with 360 yes votes and 61 no votes.\r\r\u201cThe successful passage of WIIN that includes our Cedar Rapids amendment is another positive step in our ongoing work to encourage the Administration to prioritize the Cedar Rapids flood protection project,\u201d said Congressman Blum. \u201cWith two major floods in just 8 years, it is clear that this project is vital to protecting the Cedar Rapids community and I hope the Administration acts quickly to fund the project that Congress has now approved twice.\u201d\r\rVideo: Rep. Blum speaks on House floor in support of the Cedar Rapids project\r\rMore information on the Blum Cedar Rapids amendment can be found here: https://blum.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-blum-introduces-measure-expedite-cedar-rapids-flood-project\r\rRod Blum is the Republican Congressman in Iowa\u2019s 1st District. He is a member of the Budget and Oversight & Government Reform Committees.\r\r###\r\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://steveking.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/king-introduces-american-future-healthcare-act", "King Introduces American Future Healthcare Act", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Steve King", "K000362", "steveking.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Steve King released the following statement after introducing his American Future Healthcare Act, that would give Americans back the rightful control over their own healthcare decisions:\n\u201cThe American people have rejected, as they have done for the past 6 years, the President\u2019s failed healthcare law, asking both Congress and the 2016 presidential nominees for an alternative,\u201d said King. \u201cWhether it was the botched implementation or the fact that millions of people had their health insurance plans cancelled because they were suddenly in violation of \u2018essential health benefits,\u2019 Obamacare has been nothing short of a complete failure. It is time this act of hook, crook and legislative shenanigan be abolished and our health care system restored. That is why I introduced the Obamacare Repeal Act in January 2015, and why I am introducing The American Future Healthcare Act of 2016.My bill would bring an end to this nightmare by giving the American people the ability to make their own healthcare decisions by increasing deductible healthcare savings account (HSA) annual contribution limits to $10,000 per individual and $20,000 per joint return.\u00a0\u00a0In this way, HSAs would allow individuals to keep the dollars that they do not use and, unlike under current law, Americans could accumulate money in their HSAs even if they have high deductible health plans (HDHPs) or even no insurance at all. HSAs could also be used to pay health insurance premiums, regardless of the type of health insurance the individual has.Unlike Obamacare, the American Future Healthcare Act actually encourages individuals and families to be fiscally responsible by saving for their healthcare expenses. By encouraging healthcare accountability over a lifetime, my bill will serve as an important piece in ensuring that our citizens and nation thrive in the decades ahead.\u201dTo view the original text of the bill, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://steveking.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/king-introduces-substitute-amendment-to-cr", "King Introduces Substitute Amendment to CR", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Steve King", "K000362", "steveking.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Steve King released the following statement after introducing his substitute amendment to the Continuing Resolution (CR) that would set the discretionary budget at the $1.04 trillion level and would include the defunding of fourteen major provisions:\n\u201cIt is the obligation of Congress to work towards balancing the budget and to restore its Article I constitutional authority.\u201d said King.\u00a0\u201cMy substitute amendment to the CR would accomplish both by setting the discretionary budget at the $1.04 trillion level, a $30 billion reduction from the current level, and defunding the fourteen following provisions:\n1.\u00a0Defund President Obama\u2019s unconstitutional amnesty programs for illegal aliens, chiefly DACA, DAPA and the Morton memos.\n2. Defund Obamacare in its entirety as if it had never been enacted.\n3.\u00a0Defund the President\u2019s attempt to bring potentially dangerous refugees into the U.S.\n4.\u00a0Defund the President\u2019s unconstitutional agency guidance dealing with trans-gender bathrooms in schools.\n5.\u00a0Defund the Department of Labor\u2019s Overtime Rule.\n6.\u00a0Defund the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s overreaching and invasive Waters Of The United States definition.\n7.\u00a0Defund the Department of Labor\u2019s Fiduciary Rule.\n8.\u00a0Defund the Clean Power Plan Rule.\n9.\u00a0Block any federal funding from going to Planned Parenthood.\n10.\u00a0Defund the President\u2019s Iran Nuclear Deal, one of the most dangerous proposals of our time.\n11.\u00a0Defund any and all executive action that upholds policy products of the COP21 Conference agreement.\n12.\u00a0Defund executive enforcement of the Obergefell Supreme Court decision.\n13.\u00a0Defund Dodd-Frank in its entirety.\n14.\u00a0Defund Internet domain transfer.\nWith an imminent Trump presidency, Congress can finally fulfill the promises we made to our constituents to balance an out of control budget filled with unconstitutional provisions and fight for the American people.\u201d\nTo view the original text of the amendment, click\u00a0here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-denounces-inaction-flawed-eb-5-visa-program", "Grassley Denounces Inaction on Flawed EB-5 Visa Program", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Prepared Senate Floor Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of IowaChairman, Senate Judiciary CommitteeEB-5 Regional Center Program ReformsThursday, December 08, 2016Mr. President, \u00a0One year ago, Ranking Member Leahy and I came to the floor to express frustration that the EB-5 regional center program was extended without reforms. I could easily read the same statement I gave at that time and it would be just as relevant today. \u00a0We are very disappointed that reforms were not included in the continuing resolution, which extended this very flawed immigration program.\u00a0The EB-5 regional center program has been plagued by fraud and abuse. \u00a0It poses significant national security risks. \u00a0There are serious allegations that the program may be facilitating terrorist travel, economic espionage, money laundering and investment fraud. \u00a0Yet, the continuing resolution before us fails to include much needed reforms. \u00a0So after another year, we have yet another missed opportunity.\u00a0The Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees have agreed on a package of reforms. \u00a0We have worked in a bipartisan and bicameral fashion. \u00a0We have agreed on every aspect. \u00a0We instituted compliance measures. We instituted background checks. And we instituted transparency provisions. \u00a0We made sure that rural and distressed urban areas benefited from the program, as Congress always intended, and as Senator Leahy very clearly laid out the problems.Despite the bipartisan support, not a single one of our recommendations will be implemented. Instead of reforming the program, we have status quo. \u00a0\u00a0The status quo means this:\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Investments can be spent before business plans are approved.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Regional Center operators can charge excessive fees of foreign nationals in addition to their required investments. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0None of the jobs created have to be \u201cdirect\u201d or verifiable jobs but rather are \u201cindirect\u201d and based on estimates or economic modeling. Again, not knowing for sure if jobs are created.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Investment funds are not adequately vetted.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Gifts and loans from anyone are acceptable sources of funds from foreign nationals.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0There\u2019s no prohibition against foreign governments owning or operating regional centers or projects.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Regional centers can be rented or sold without government oversight or approval.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Regional centers don\u2019t have to certify that they comply with securities laws. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0There\u2019s no set of sanctions for violations, no recourse for bad actors.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0There are no required background checks on anyone associated with a regional center.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The investment level is lower than Congress ever intended. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Gerrymandering continues and rural and urban distressed areas lose out. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Site visits or even audits are not required. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0There\u2019s no transparency on how funds are spent, who is paid, and what investors are told about the projects they invest in. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The preferential treatment we have seen in the past is enabled without strict code of conduct rules. \u00a0Now, that's just some of the things that are wrong. So the four of us on the two committees, in a bicameral and bipartisan way, tried to address awareness and to have process for dialogue leading to reform. My committee held two hearings this year. The house held one. Staff met with every interested stakeholders that asked, and we offered more concessions than we did last year. \u00a0To top it off, we were ready to provide a six-year reauthorization. \u00a0This would have provided long term stability for investors and regional centers. \u00a0 \u00a0But, let\u2019s talk about why this package was not acceptable to some \u2013 notably the U.S. Chamber of Commerce that was the most rigid in not compromising. \u00a0Here\u2019s a list of issues raised by this leading voice of business in opposition to our package:\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They want, in effect, one investment level. \u00a0They don\u2019t want any meaningful discount for rural or urban distressed areas. And, don't forget, this law was passed 20 years ago to help rural and high-employment areas. That's the purpose of it.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They don\u2019t want visa set asides for areas that Congress selected as targeted employment areas for fear that investors in affluent areas would have to wait slightly longer for a visa.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They didn\u2019t want to incentivize foreign investors to fund manufacturing projects that create long term, sustainable and real jobs that this country desperately needs. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They wanted to make it harder for rural areas to qualify at a discount investment level even though it\u2019s common knowledge that small and rural communities have a harder time attracting capital.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They wanted certifications and compliance measures to be delegated to the agency. \u00a0They didn\u2019t want Congress to dictate transparency and reporting requirements. \u00a0Our job is to legislate \u2013 not delegate! \u00a0Delegating authority to the Executive Branch on this program would result in more of the same. \u00a0Because even by the departments in charge, there's very little oversight or monitoring now, even if it might be required by law. But not enough of it is required by law. That's why you get away with this stuff.\u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The chamber didn't like a provision saying a foreign national had to be 18 years old to invest and obtain a green card through the program. They would like children as young as 14 to be able to make these major financial decisions and invest up to $1 million\u2014a fourteen-year old to do that.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They wanted restrictions on where investor funds came from lifted. \u00a0Our package limited a foreign national from taking out a questionable loan or taking gifts from unknown sources. \u00a0One way to find out what\u2019s wrong is to follow the money. We wanted to be sure that those investing were doing so because they obtained funds lawfully. \u00a0The Chamber of Commerce wanted no such restrictions.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They wanted foreign governments and sovereign wealth funds to own EB-5 projects. \u00a0They wanted to delay rules saying foreign governments could not own or administer regional centers by requiring bureaucratic rulemaking. \u00a0Despite the changes we made this year on this very strict provision, they continued to water it down in every negotiating session that we had.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They didn\u2019t want regional centers to have to consult with local officials about EB-5 projects to ensure that economic development efforts were coordinated. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They wanted to do away with a requirement that a foreign investor would have to create at least one direct job before obtaining a green card. \u00a0Now here you've got a situation where a program was instituted 25 years ago to create jobs, particularly in rural America and high unemployment areas, to create jobs, and they don't even want the investors to show that they're going to create at least one job. Right now, they use economic modeling to show indirect jobs. Neither the existence of those jobs nor the location of those jobs can truly be verified. Now, when you have the federal government setting up a program like this, that's supposed to create jobs in rural areas and high unemployment areas, wouldn't you think there ought to be a way of showing those jobs are actually created?  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They raised new concerns about provisions that have been discussed since last June \u2013 such as, requiring regional centers to pay a fee to an enforcement and monitoring fund. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They wanted a three-day notification of a site visit by the agency to determine if the regional center truly exists. Sure, tell the inspectors you're coming, so you can get everything in order before the inspectors get there.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0They fought efforts to require transparency of how investor funds were used. \u00a0This is a major problem of the program. \u00a0Nearly every story of fraud relates to how regional center operators use EB-5 funds for their own personal gain and luxury. This program is meant to create jobs, not to help individuals in charge of the program have personal gain and, more importantly, even the luxury that might go with that.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0But, the kicker in all of this is that these business interests insist on more visas and to make them cheaper. \u00a0They want Congress to increase immigration numbers \u2013 through controversial recapture mechanisms or by exempting certain people from the annual cap. \u00a0The pro-EB5 groups want more visas for an already faulty program \u2013 which means more money in their pockets. \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0On top of that, they asked us to make the visa cheaper than it is under current law. \u00a0I refused to do that. \u00a0I refuse to go below the $1 million level that has been in law since 1990. \u00a0The demand for visas is there. \u00a0There\u2019s no justification to further cheapen this program and the green cards that come with it. \u00a0We will have five months until we are faced with another reauthorization. \u00a0In that time, however, I expect that proposed rules changing the investment level and stopping gerrymandering will be published by the end of the year by the Obama Administration \u2013 and I will support these proposed rules. \u00a0I will be asking the new Trump administration to keep them and build off of them. \u00a0Now, in regard to the new administration coming in, they've took a very strong position on various immigration issues, and in taking that position, I would expect them to consider very closely the fraud and the misuse of the EB-5 program. When the Obama administration sees things wrong with it and they can correct those things through regulation, those regulations are some that should be backed up very solidly by the new administration coming inNext year, I will continue to work with Senator Leahy and the House Judiciary Committee. \u00a0But, I will also work closely with the incoming Ranking Member, Senator Feinstein. \u00a0She is not a fan of this program at all, and has been vocal about closing it down because of all the fault we find with it whether it's fraud or misuse of the program or possible terrorist activity taking advantage of it or whatever national security reasons. And some of these have been pointed out by law enforcement agencies at the federal level.So I want everyone to know that change is coming. \u00a0I have always wanted to reform the program. \u00a0But, I\u2019m not sure the industry will ever come around. \u00a0The leadership of this body and the other body could help by ending this program in a continuing resolution, let it sunset and all those people come to the table with a more compromising point of view to correct everything that's wrong here. But the industry love the status quo and the billions of dollars that pour in to affluent areas. And consequently the money is not directed to where it was intended. In 1990 when this legislation was passed, which was to rural areas and high unemployment areas. So I'm not sure with the attitude of the industry that reforms are possible. So, it may be time to do away with it completely. \u00a0I said it one year ago and I\u2019ll repeat: \u00a0Maybe we should spend our time, resources and efforts in other programs that benefit the American people as opposed to benefiting the well healed and the well connected. \u00a0Maybe it\u2019s time this program goes away. \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-hhs-secretary-nominee-price-discuss-rural-hospitals-medicaid-oversight", "Grassley, HHS Secretary Nominee Price Discuss Rural Hospitals, Medicaid Oversight, Soaring Drug Prices and Remedies", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley today met with Rep. Tom Price, President-elect Donald Trump\u2019s nominee to serve as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. \u00a0Grassley is a senior member and former chairman of the Finance Committee, which will consider the nomination. \u00a0Grassley made the following comment on the meeting.\u201cI congratulated Dr. Price on his nomination and told him I\u2019d appreciate having a member of Congress at the head of such a critical agency. \u00a0Congress is the people\u2019s branch of government, and having a member of Congress at the agency would bring responsiveness to the public and I hope to Congress on our oversight inquiries.\u201cWe discussed the importance of caring for people with complex medical needs, such as cystic fibrosis and Down syndrome, in Medicaid. \u00a0Coordinated care for such individuals is a major, ongoing challenge. \u00a0I said making sure taxpayer money is well-spent is always a priority, so even if we give states more control over Medicaid, we would still need federal oversight to make sure services are delivered as intended. \u00a0\u201cWe discussed critical access hospitals. \u00a0There are 82 such hospitals located throughout Iowa and many others throughout the country. \u00a0They provide a lifeline in small, rural communities. \u00a0I raised the ongoing problem of doctors in rural states like Iowa getting reimbursed less than their counterparts in other parts of the country, despite regularly offering better quality of care. \u00a0This is something I\u2019d like to see fixed definitively.\u201cDr. Price and I discussed soaring drug prices and some of the remedies I\u2019m working on. \u00a0These include reimportation, the CREATES Act to address abuses by brand drug companies to block generic competition, and the bill to limit pay-for-delay agreements between brand and generic companies that delay the entry of cheaper drugs into the market. \u00a0We touched on the practice of \u2018evergreening,\u2019 where drug makers slightly tweak a product to hang onto a patent. \u00a0\u201cIt was a good conversation about some of the many issues of interest to the people of Iowa and the American people on the whole. \u00a0I look forward to covering these issues and many more at Dr. Price\u2019s nomination hearing.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-notes-more-slipping-and-sliding-pentagon-clean-audit-deadline", "Grassley Notes More Slipping and Sliding on Pentagon Clean Audit Deadline", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Floor Statement of Senator Chuck Grassley  More Slipping and Sliding on Pentagon Audit Deadline  Delivered Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016I come to the floor today to alert the Trump Administration to a problem. There\u2019s a festering sore needing high-level attention. I am talking about a formidable barrier. It stands in the way of an important goal: auditing the Department of Defense\u2019s (DoD) books. At times, this barrier makes the goal seem unattainable.The need for annual financial audits was originally established by the Chief Financial Officers (CFO) Act of 1990. By March 1992, each agency was to present a financial statement to an inspector general for audit. To date, all have earned unqualified or clean opinions except one -- the Department of Defense (DoD). It has the dubious distinction of earning an unblemished string of failing opinions known as disclaimers.In the face of endless stumbling, Congress drew a new line in the sand. It\u2019s in Section 1003 of the fiscal year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act. The Pentagon was given an extra seven years to clean up the books and get ready.Well, guess what? The slipping and sliding never stopped. \u00a0The revised September 2017 deadline is staring us in the face, and all the evidence tells me the department will never make it. The 25-year effort to audit the books is stuck in the mud.\u00a0Billions of dollars have been spent trying to solve the root cause problem \u2013 a broken accounting system. But the fix is nowhere in sight. And until control at the transaction level is achieved, auditing the books is nothing more than a pipe dream.\u00a0Under the fiscal year 2010 law, the Financial Improvement and Audit Readiness (FIAR) Plan is supposed to tell us whether the financial statements of the Defense Department \u201care validated as ready for audit by not later than September 30, 2017.\u201dThe latest FIAR report hit the street last month. It does not answer the key question: Is DoD ready for audit? I read it and don\u2019t know for sure. It is a study in fuzzy thinking. It\u2019s like a riddle, and here\u2019s why.\u00a0True, the department boldly declares that it is audit ready. But in the very same breath, the Comptroller and Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Mike McCord, takes a step backward. He warns that earning a clean opinion is \u201cmany years\u201d away. \u00a0Being audit ready should offer a reasonable prospect for success. Something is out of whack here.The ultimate objective of Section 1003 is a successful audit or clean opinion.\u00a0Mr. McCord\u2019s words seem to turn that objective upside down. How can the department be audit ready and meet the deadline if it\u2019s still years away from a clean opinion?Mr. McCord\u2019s message appears to be downright confusing, contradictory, and possibly misleading. If he knows DoD is years away from a clean opinion, then he must also know that it is not audit ready \u2013 or even close to it. \u00a0He has to know the accounting system is incapable of producing reliable information that meets prescribed standards. That tells me DoD is not audit ready, and he knows it \u2013 like everybody else.Before he steps down, Mr. McCord owes us an explanation for his confusing statements.\u00a0And once the new Pentagon leadership team is up to speed, I look forward to further clarification.I also hope the new team will address the wisdom of doing full financial statement audits when there is limited control at the transaction level. By proceeding with full-scale audits without it, Mr. McCord has put the cart in front of the horse. Spending hundreds of million dollars a year for audits with a zero probability of success is wasteful.\u00a0I would like to remind my colleagues why a successful audit is so important.First and foremost, it would conform with constitutional requirements. It would strengthen internal controls and facilitate the detection of fraud and theft. But it is also important for more practical reasons. It would help to bring about better, more informed decision-making.\u00a0Management can\u2019t make good decisions with bad information. If accounting information is inaccurate and incomplete \u2013 as it is today, then management doesn\u2019t know what anything costs or how the money is being spent. And if they don\u2019t have that information at their fingertips, well, then how could they possibly make good decisions?\u00a0Recent revelations about the 125 billion dollars in \u201cadministrative waste,\u201d which was allegedly suppressed by senior defense officials, is living proof of bad decisions. If the time ever comes when DoD\u2019s accounting system can generate reliable information, then such mistakes could be avoided.So I keep coming back to the same old questions:Why has faulty accounting information been tolerated at the Pentagon for all these years?How is it that the Pentagon is able to develop the most advanced weapons the world has ever known with relative ease, yet, for some strange reason, it seems unable to acquire the tools it needs to keep track of the money it spends.\u00a0Why is this national disgrace being tolerated in the Pentagon? There are never-ending bureaucratic explanations but no solutions. With good leadership, this problem can be solved.The man nominated to be the next secretary of defense -- Mr. James Mattis -- strikes me as the kind of person who will tackle this problem head-on and run it to the ground until fixed.\u00a0His record suggests he will not tolerate this kind of endless foot-dragging and inexcusable failure. Twenty-five years of lame excuses probably won\u2019t sit too well with him. Either he will whip the accounting system into shape or heads will roll. According to press reports, failure is not a word that he knows or uses.\u00a0With a new sheriff in town, maybe the endless, helpless woe-is-me hand-wringing at the Pentagon is about to come to a screeching halt. A modern, fully integrated finance and accounting system might be more than a dream.  \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-treasury-secretary-nominee-steven-mnuchin-discuss-tax-priorities", "Grassley, Treasury Secretary Nominee Steven Mnuchin Discuss Tax Priorities, Whistleblowers", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa today met with President-elect Trump\u2019s Treasury secretary nominee, Steven Mnuchin. \u00a0Grassley is a senior member and former chairman of the Finance Committee, which will consider the nomination. \u00a0Grassley made the following comment on the meeting.\u201cIt was our first time meeting, so Mr. Mnuchin and I spent a few minutes getting acquainted. \u00a0We then discussed a series of issues. \u00a0We covered the importance of comprehensive tax reform on both the corporate and individual levels and how tax fairness is critical to economic growth and job creation. \u00a0I\u2019ve often said that a major undertaking like tax reform requires the President\u2019s use of his bully pulpit to rally support behind a plan from Congress and the American people. \u00a0There\u2019s an opportunity to do that with a new administration. \u00a0I emphasized the importance of listening to whistleblowers within the Treasury Department and those who come to the IRS with allegations of major tax fraud. \u00a0The provisions improving the IRS whistleblower office that I drafted are working, but it\u2019s required a lot of oversight to maintain the momentum, and I\u2019d like to see a Treasury secretary who will build on the progress. \u00a0Enforcing tax fraud is a matter of fairness for the majority of the taxpayers who pay what they owe. \u00a0Mr. Mnuchin and I discussed the burden of the estate tax on family farms and businesses. \u00a0 I emphasized the need to treat alternative energy tax incentives fairly, including keeping the current phase-out for the wind energy production tax incentive as is. \u00a0Alternative energy drives job creation in Iowa and nationwide. \u00a0We discussed currency manipulation as well as the need to broaden the scope of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to cover food security. \u00a0Mr. Mnuchin seemed to appreciate the need for the review process to become broader than it is now to help protect U.S. interests. \u00a0I look forward to covering these issues and more in Mr. Mnuchin\u2019s nomination hearing.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-warren-applaud-fda-steps-improve-hearing-aid-accessibility-implement", "Grassley, Warren Applaud FDA Steps to Improve Hearing Aid Accessibility, Implement Portions of Bipartisan Legislation", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. -- Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) applauded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announcement that it will take steps to improve consumer access to hearing aids, including by not enforcing the requirement for a medical evaluation or waiver in order to acquire hearing aids. Earlier this month, Warren and Grassley introduced the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2016, which would make certain types of hearing aids available over the counter (OTC) and remove unnecessary and burdensome requirements that would pose barriers for consumers who could benefit from hearing aids.\"I'm very glad to see the FDA recognize that over-the-counter hearing aids can improve access to millions of Americans with untreated hearing loss,\" said Senator Warren. \"This announcement by the FDA will implement one of the provisions in the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2016, which I introduced with Senator Grassley earlier this Congress. Our bill will make additional simple changes to help adults with hearing loss get access to hearing aids and make it easier for consumers to shop for the best value.\"\"This is a very good first step,\" Senator Grassley said. \u00a0\"The FDA is right to help consumers take advantage of innovative products. \u00a0Making certain hearing aids are available over the counter is meant to increase competition and help bring down costs. \u00a0The agency move clears a hurdle that people now face in getting hearing aids. \u00a0It reflects one of the provisions of our legislation. \u00a0Still, even with this positive step, introducing our legislation in the next Congress will be important. \u00a0Administrations shift and legal challenges occur. \u00a0Getting the law on the books would ensure that those who could benefit from over-the-counter hearing aids would have certainty going forward.\"\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-final-passage-reforms-limiting-paid-administrative-leave", "Grassley Welcomes Final Passage of Reforms Limiting Paid Administrative Leave", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley is the co-author of legislation that would reduce the excessive use of paid leave by federal agencies. \u00a0Grassley developed the legislation after an in-depth investigation finding that agencies sometimes put employees on paid leave for years, either to avoid making tough management decisions or to sideline whistleblowers. \u00a0The legislation, passed out of committee in February, is part of the National Defense Authorization Act conference report that the Senate passed today. \u00a0The measure is now on its way to the President for consideration. \u00a0Grassley made the following comment.  \u00a0  \u201cThis is a red letter day for everybody who cares about good government. \u00a0Too often, managers put employees on paid administrative leave either out of convenience to them or as punishment for those who blow the whistle on waste, fraud and abuse. \u00a0There are many examples, including Brandon Coleman, the whistleblower at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Phoenix who was sidelined but ultimately vindicated for trying to save veterans\u2019 lives. \u00a0 Taxpayers are shortchanged when valuable employees are sidelined or problematic employees are paid to stay home instead of being fired. \u00a0The reforms put strict limits on administrative leave. \u00a0They make clear when other forms of paid leave are allowable and when employees should be on the job instead. \u00a0Paid leave shouldn\u2019t be a crutch for management to avoid making tough personnel decisions or a club for wrongdoers to use against whistleblowers. \u00a0 I hope the reforms will become law as soon as possible, and I look forward to overseeing their implementation.\u201d-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/reforming-copyright-office", "Reforming the Copyright Office", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Comment of Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.),  on the House Judiciary Proposal to Reform the Copyright Office  \u00a0\u201cWe have been working together for the last year on a legislative proposal to modernize the U.S. Copyright Office in order to better fulfill its mission in a rapidly changing digital environment.\u00a0 Based on our extensive consultation with a broad range of stakeholders, we believe the Copyright Office should have more independence, accountability, and authority to make decisions in areas such as IT, budget, and staffing.\u00a0 Our draft Senate proposal would achieve these important goals.\u00a0 Now that our partners in the House have unveiled their policy proposal, we look forward to working with them next Congress on this important issue.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/young-applauds-gov-terry-branstad-s-appointment-us-ambassador-china", "Young Applauds Gov. Terry Branstads Appointment as U.S. Ambassador to China", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Young Applauds Gov. Terry Branstad\u2019s Appointment as U.S. Ambassador to China\u00a0\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - Iowa Congressman David Young released the following statement after President-elect Donald Trump indicated he will nominate Iowa Governor Terry Branstad to be the next U.S. ambassador to China:\n\u201cGovernor Branstad, Iowa\u2019s longest serving governor, has spent his career dedicated to the wellbeing of all Iowans and working to strengthen our great state. He has forged a strong relationship with China spanning decades, and has an understanding of the issues important to furthering a longstanding relationship between our two nations. He will bring a high level of commitment and service to this new role, and will also be in a very powerful position to promote and advance policies and relationships important to Iowa and our economy. As a friend and colleague, I wish him and his family all the best.\n\u201cWith this news, I am also looking forward to welcoming Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds to her new role as Iowa\u2019s first ever female governor sometime in 2017 once Governor Branstad is confirmed by the U.S. Senate. I look forward to working with her to make this a smooth transition for the state and our citizens.\u201d\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/epipen-misclassification-case-study-what-not-do-grassley-tells-cms-administrator", "EpiPen Misclassification is Case Study in What Not to Do, Grassley Tells CMS Administrator Nominee", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa today met with Seema Verma, the nominee of President-elect Donald Trump to serve as administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). \u00a0As a senior member of the Finance Committee, Grassley will be involved in considering the nomination. \u00a0He is reviewing drug price increases, especially involving EpiPens, as chairman of the Judiciary Committee. \u00a0He made the following comment on the meeting.\u201cAs part of the EpiPen inquiry, I learned that the Obama Administration knew in 2009 that EpiPens, along with Dilaudid and Prilosec, were misclassified under the Medicaid drug rebate program. \u00a0That means the taxpayers overpaid for those drugs. \u00a0For EpiPens alone, the taxpayers probably overpaid by hundreds of millions of dollars. \u00a0It\u2019s unclear whether the Obama Administration did anything to fix this problem for the taxpayers. \u00a0The exact details are lacking because CMS, the Justice Department and the EpiPen maker Mylan refused to testify voluntarily at a hearing I scheduled on this problem. \u00a0 Further, the Justice Department, CMS and Mylan have failed to respond in full to my oversight letters. \u00a0This is unacceptable. \u00a0A new administration offers an opportunity to exert more oversight of government programs and tax dollars. \u00a0This agency\u2019s job is to deliver services to patients and get the most value from every tax dollar. \u00a0It has to carry out the programs and services enacted into law by Congress and the President. It ought to be responsive to Congress, the people\u2019s branch of government. \u00a0The EpiPen misclassification is a case study in what not to do. \u00a0I expressed these sentiments to Ms. Verma, and she agreed. \u00a0 I look forward to exploring these ideas further at her nomination hearing.\u201d \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-johnson-seek-information-dental-safety-veterans-after-wisconsin-incident", "Grassley, Johnson Seek Information on Dental Safety for Veterans After Wisconsin Incident", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, on Tuesday asked Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald for more information following reports that veterans at the Tomah (Wis.) Veterans Affairs Medical Center may have been exposed to disease from the improper cleaning of dental equipment. \u00a0The letter follows news reports that 592 veterans were treated at the facility with dental instruments not compliant with VA policies, which may have exposed them to hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV. \u00a0The chairmen asked for information about the VA\u2019s training procedures and equipment protocol as well as steps that the VA is taking to ensure safety.The letter can be found here and below:December 6, 2016The Honorable Robert A. McDonald  Secretary  U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs  810 Vermont Avenue NW  Washington, DC 20420Dear Secretary McDonald:We write today regarding disturbing news reports about hundreds of veterans that may have been exposed to Hepatitis B, C, and HIV due to the failure of a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) dentist to comply with cleaning procedures. The report indicates that this particular dentist, working at the Tomah, Wisconsin VA Medical Center (Tomah VA), used his own equipment, cleaned it, and then reused it all in violation of VA regulations. \u00a0This activity reportedly occurred for one year. \u00a0Upon discovery of the dentist\u2019s alleged actions, Tomah VA leadership removed the dentist from patient care and placed him in an administrative role. \u00a0The dentist, a probationary employee at the time, resigned late last week. We understand the VA Office of Inspector General recently opened a review of this situation. \u00a0The Acting Medical Director of the facility, Victoria Brahm, was quoted as saying, \u201c[i]t was purposeful that [the dentist] was violating VA regulations.\u201d Ms. Brahm has also stated that the VA is following reporting procedures to the state licensing board where the dentist is licensed and to the National Practitioner Data Bank. It is unclear what other steps the VA has done to hold him accountable for the breach of protocol. \u00a0Further, it is unclear what the VA is doing on a national scale to ensure that all VA doctors, not just dentists, comply with safety protocols. \u00a0Although the Tomah VA has offered free screening for those potentially infected and has said the infection risk is low, it is most likely little comfort for those waiting for test results. \u00a0It is imperative that the VA provide Congress with additional information to better understand what has transpired at the Tomah VA to help ensure our veterans receive the care they deserve.We request that you please provide the following information:1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The news article notes that the dentist\u2019s temporary assistant notified VA officials that the dentist was not using disposable equipment and includes a quote from Ms. Brahm saying that an \u201cinvestigation\u201d took place. \u00a0Please describe in detail when the investigation was initiated, how the investigation was conducted, and what the investigation found. In addition, please provide any reports or summaries of the investigation.\u00a02.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please describe the training procedure by which doctors are informed of the VA\u2019s disposable equipment protocol. \u00a0In addition, please explain whether the VA requires periodic continuing education to reestablish medical protocols that must be followed. \u00a03.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please describe all steps the VA has taken, or will take, to hold the dentist in question accountable.4.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please describe all steps the VA has taken, or will take, on a national scale to ensure that all VA doctors are complying with safety protocols.Thank you in advance for your cooperation with this request. \u00a0Please number your responses according to their corresponding questions and respond no later than December 20, 2016. \u00a0If you have questions, please contact Josh Flynn-Brown of Chairman Grassley\u2019s staff at (202) 224-5225 and Brian Downey or Kyle Brosnan of Chairman Johnson\u2019s staff at (202) 224-4751.Sincerely,\u00a0  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Ron Johnson \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 \u00a0Charles E. Grassley  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Chairman \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 Chairman  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Committee on Homeland Security \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Committee on the Judiciary  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 and Governmental Affairs\u00a0  CC: \u00a0The Honorable Michael J. Missal\u00a0  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Inspector General  \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-nomination-governor-branstad-us-ambassador-china", "Grassley on the Nomination of Governor Branstad as U.S. Ambassador to China", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa today made the following comment on the news that Gov. Terry Branstad has been named the U.S. ambassador to China nominee by President-elect Trump. \u00a0\u201cGovernor Branstad is a friend and colleague and someone I know very well. \u00a0As the long-time governor of Iowa, he understands the global nature of the state and national economies. \u00a0Governor Branstad understands China, having been there on numerous trade missions and having a friendship with President Xi Jinping. \u00a0He\u2019s the longest-serving governor in our nation\u2019s history. \u00a0Iowans have chosen him for his successful track record as the chief executive, his trustworthiness and his reputation as a straight shooter. \u00a0Those attributes would serve the United States very well if he\u2019s confirmed for this position. \u00a0He ought to be confirmed very easily.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-recognizes-200th-anniversary-senate-judiciary-committee", "Grassley Recognizes the 200th Anniversary of the Senate Judiciary Committee", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Prepared Senate Floor Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of IowaChairman, Senate Judiciary CommitteeMarking the 200th Anniversary of the Senate Judiciary CommitteeDecember 7, 2016This Saturday, December 10th, marks the 200th anniversary of the establishment of the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate. I\u2019m very proud to be the Chairman of this Committee\u2014the first Chairman who is not a lawyer, I might add\u2014and will be offering a resolution, along with some other Committee members, to help commemorate this anniversary.200 years ago, the Senate established 11 original standing committees. Today, although there are many committees, the Senate Judiciary Committee is one of only four original committees that still meet.\u00a0During the past two centuries, some of the most vital and important questions facing the nation have come before the Committee. For example, during the Civil War, the Committee ensured President Lincoln had the emergency powers he needed to pursue the Civil War effort. And in 1864, the Committee took a critical step in ending slavery in the United States when it reported the 13th Amendment of the Constitution.The Committee has jurisdiction over issues that directly impact American lives and is on the forefront of deciding important policy issues, including immigration, civil liberties, criminal laws and protection for victims, and civil rights. And of course, the Committee examines those nominated for lifetime appointment on the federal bench.\u00a0Over the years, the Committee has reported legislation that has been vital to the safety and protection of the American people.\u00a0I don\u2019t have time today to discuss all the Committee has accomplished over the last 200 years, but I do want to take a minute to recognize this important anniversary. I\u2019m very proud of the Committee\u2019s storied history. Today, I celebrate these accomplishments, I follow it up with the introduction of a resolution, and am truly humbled to be its Chairman. I yield the Floor.\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-judiciary-subcommittee-hearing-examining-proposed-att-time", "Grassley Statement at a Judiciary Subcommittee Hearing Examining the Proposed AT&T-Time Warner Merger", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Prepared Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of IowaChairman, Senate Judiciary CommitteeAntitrust Subcommittee Hearing:\u00a0\u201cExamining the Competitive Impact of the AT&T-Time Warner Transaction\u201dDecember 7, 2016Thank you Mr. Chairman for holding this hearing on the biggest transaction of the year, the proposed AT&T-Time Warner merger. \u00a0This deal would combine one of the nation\u2019s largest phone and internet providers with a media entertainment titan that among other things, owns HBO, CNN, TBS, TNT and Warner Brothers studios. \u00a0By expanding into media and entertainment, AT&T strengthens its existing wireless, internet and pay-TV business and also becomes a premier content owner.\u00a0The Justice Department, and possibly the Federal Communications Commission, will determine whether to approve or reject this merger, and decide whether or what conditions should be imposed in order for the parties to proceed with their transaction. \u00a0Nonetheless, our oversight responsibility is an important one, where the Committee can flesh out potential issues and highlight possible impacts of the merger on the market and consumers.It\u2019s an understatement to say that this industry is undergoing tremendous change. \u00a0People are constantly reevaluating what, when, where and how they access their media entertainment and content. \u00a0Technologies are quickly evolving, and delivery platforms are converging. \u00a0Companies are improving their technologies so that customers can enjoy better and faster connectivity. \u00a0Innovation is creating more options and allowing for multiple combinations. \u00a0The creativity of programming content and device apps is flourishing to satisfy any and every consumer taste, young and old. \u00a0Customers are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about content offerings and their data consumption needs. \u00a0No doubt, this industry is going through a transformative and disruptive time, and consumers are enjoying the ride. \u00a0So we want to make sure that this revolution in technologies and content continues to thrive and evolve to the benefit of all consumers, all over the country, including in rural communities in Iowa. \u00a0More content choices and accessibility options, better quality and affordable prices make for a happy consumer. \u00a0AT&T and Time Warner say that this vertical merger will \u201cbenefit consumers, strengthen competition, and encourage innovation and investment.\u201d \u00a0They claim that by consolidating the assets of the two companies, it will be able to better compete nationwide and meet the expectations of consumers.However, critics of the merger say that this deal will have a negative impact on competition and innovation. \u00a0There\u2019s concern that a combined AT&T-Time Warner will block competitor access to popular Time Warner content. \u00a0There\u2019s concern that a combined company will give preferential treatment \u2013 for example, favorable channel placement and zero-rating pricing \u2013 to Time Warner\u2019s premium entertainment programming to the disadvantage of other content producers, in particular small independent producers. \u00a0There\u2019s concern about AT&T-Time Warner\u2019s ability to leverage their assets to negotiate better licensing arrangements or raise the price of their content to the detriment of other distributors. \u00a0There\u2019s concern about the merged company\u2019s ability to employ \u201cbullying\u201d tactics to dictate rates and terms to other networks. \u00a0There\u2019s concern that this acquisition will concentrate too much power into one conglomerate, resulting in higher prices and fewer programming options for consumers. \u00a0There\u2019s also concern about the merger\u2019s implications for a free and diverse press.These are all serious concerns which should be scrutinized carefully by the antitrust regulators tasked with reviewing this transaction.At the same time, some warn that we should be careful about how the AT&T-Time Warner deal should be examined because of the dynamic nature of the industry, complexity of the marketplace, and fast paced innovation and changing consumer wants and needs. \u00a0They question whether current merger analysis methods are \u201cwell suited to tackle\u201d this transaction, and urge caution when determining the competitive effects of mergers between different complex, interconnected platforms. \u00a0They suggest that we may need to re-define market power and re-assess how to analyze it in a fast shifting industry with \u201cmultisided\u201d platforms. \u00a0With tech giants like Google, Facebook, Amazon, Netflix and others changing the way consumers access content, it\u2019s legitimate to ask whether \u201cwhat looks straightforwardly anti-competitive in the old industrial-merger models might not be so simple in the merger of modern media platforms.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0Certainly, the AT&T-Time Warner deal warrants close and careful scrutiny because it raises all these complex issues and concerns. \u00a0We want to ensure that the proposed merger doesn\u2019t allow for an unfair advantage over competitors or facilitate anti-competitive practices with anti-competitive effects. \u00a0Yet we also need a thoughtful, forward-looking analysis of the market that takes into account the complexity of modern interconnected media, content and telecom platforms and relationships. \u00a0Ultimately, we want to ensure that competition thrives in this critical market, and we don\u2019t stifle innovation or deter the emergence of cutting-edge technologies that customers demand. \u00a0Ultimately, we want to ensure that our policies don\u2019t lead to higher costs, fewer choices or worse service for consumers. \u00a0I look forward to our discussion today.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-passage-cures-act-cites-health-care-provisions-interest-iowans", "Grassley Welcomes Passage of Cures Act, Cites Health Care Provisions of Interest to Iowans", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley today welcomed Senate passage on a 94 to 5 vote of the 21st Century Cures Act, citing the benefits to find effective medical treatments for chronic and terminal illnesses and the inclusion of his measures to help rural \u201ctweener\u201d hospitals and to restore the ability of small businesses to help their employees with health insurance premiums.\u201cFrom cancer, to diabetes, Alzheimer\u2019s and Parkinson\u2019s, cystic fibrosis and so many other chronic medical conditions and rare diseases, strong support exists to foster more innovation in health care and medical science to help spread hope, healing and health for our fellow Americans,\u201d Grassley said. \u00a0\u201cAs a fiscal conservative and champion for good government, I work to make sure the federal spigot doesn\u2019t shower limited resources down the drain. Instead, good stewardship demands that tax dollars are used wisely and effectively to advance medical science and improve the delivery of health care and patient outcomes. \u00a0The cystic fibrosis community is a good example of grass roots and expert partnership that produces treatments to improve the quality of life for cystic fibrosis patients. \u00a0The Cures Act will help promote that model for other medical conditions.\u201d  \u00a0  Grassley is co-founder and co-chairman of the Senate Cystic Fibrosis Caucus, announced earlier this year.  \u00a0  The Cures Act would inject the views of patients into the drug approval process and accelerate the regulatory process to bring treatments and cures to the market more quickly. Modernizing clinical trials, boosting funding for mental health care, expanding opioid painkiller abuse, prevention and treatment programs and encouraging the use of electronic health records systems will strengthen and improve patient health in America in the 21st century.\u00a0  \u00a0  For Iowans, it will open up opportunities for teaching hospitals and research institutions to secure federal grants to help deliver new scientific discovery and medical innovation. Specifically, it authorizes $1.8 billion for cancer research and $3 billion for biomedical research. Local communities crippled by a growing surge in painkiller addiction may benefit from $1 billion authorized to prevent and treat opioid and heroin abuse and overdose.\u00a0  \u00a0  The Cures Act builds on Grassley\u2019s longstanding efforts to improve mental health parity with specific provisions that will expand research, treatment and care for mental illnesses and disorders.\u00a0  \u00a0  The measure extends the provisions for community hospitals that Grassley has long championed to support the delivery of health care to patients living in rural America. \u00a0Patients served by \u201ctweener\u201d hospitals in Grinnell, Carroll, Newton and Spirit Lake will continue to benefit from the rural community hospital demonstration program, as well as residents served by the 82 critical access hospitals located throughout Iowa. \u00a0The measure delays the effects of a federal regulation preventing physician assistants from performing some procedures without a doctor on site at such hospitals. \u00a0This is important for small, rural hospitals where a doctor might be available by phone rather than in person.  \u00a0  The Cures Act includes Grassley\u2019s bipartisan legislation to strip an Obamacare penalty against small businesses that provided assistance to their employees to help with insurance premiums and health care expenses. \u00a0Employer-sponsored health coverage has become an unaffordable option for about 60 percent of small businesses. And yet, smaller employers who want to help their employees were stymied by an IRS regulation that would penalize those who reimbursed employees for health care costs with tax-preferred contributions. \u00a0Small businesses that participated in the reimbursements could be fined up to $36,500 per employee each year. \u00a0\u201cThis misguided IRS rule is being rolled back with passage of the Cures Act,\u201d Grassley said. \u00a0  \u00a0  Thanks to Grassley\u2019s work, the Cures Act does not include provisions to water down his Physician Payments Sunshine Act shedding light on drug and medical device company payments to doctors. \u00a0Grassley fought the provisions, and bill sponsors removed them to secure his support.  \u00a0  The Senate vote today clears the measure for the President\u2019s consideration. \u00a0Earlier, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the Cures Act 392-26. \u00a0The President is expected to sign it into law.  \u00a0  \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/goodlatte-grassley-call-obama-administration-declassify-secret-refugee-deal", "Goodlatte & Grassley Call on Obama Administration to Declassify Secret Refugee Deal", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today called on the Obama Administration to declassify its plan to admit into the United States potentially over 2,400 refugees who Australia has refused to admit.\u00a0Last month, Chairmen Goodlatte and Grassley expressed concern that the Obama Administration\u2019s secret negotiations with Australia left Americans in the dark about the full scope of its resettlement plans and requested a briefing to review the classified agreement. It is unprecedented to classify an agreement to usher in refugees to the United States and the Chairmen\u2019s review of the agreement further confirms that it should never have been classified in the first place.In their letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and Secretary of State John Kerry, Goodlatte and Grassley call for the declassification of the agreement so the American people can review it. \u00a0Full text of the Goodlatte-Grassley letter to Kerry and Johnson follows:December 6, 2016VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONThe Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0  Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528The Honorable John Kerry  Secretary  Department of State  Washington, D.C. 20520Dear Secretaries Johnson and Kerry:We write to follow up on our November 22, 2016 letter regarding the agreement between the United States and Australia for the United States to consider for admission as refugees, potentially over 2,400 migrants currently detained in Papua New Guinea and Nauru, whom Australia has refused to admit. \u00a0These migrants are nationals of countries like Somalia, Syria, Pakistan, Iran, and Sudan, as well as others. \u00a0As you know, your agencies have deemed the agreement classified. \u00a0This is despite the fact that classification of an agreement regarding individuals to be considered for admission by the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program is unprecedented. \u00a0 \u00a0We appreciate your making staff available to provide us with the document in a classified setting and to brief us regarding the circumstances surrounding the agreement. \u00a0It is now absolutely apparent to us that there was no reason for the agreement to be classified from the outset, and that it should not continue to be classified. \u00a0To that end, we request that you declassify the document outlining the agreement so that the American people can read it. \u00a0\u00a0  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  The American people have a right to be fully aware of the actions of their government regarding foreign nationals who may be admitted to the United States. \u00a0American taxpayers not only foot the bill for the majority of the refugee resettlement in the United States, but they bear any consequences regarding the security implications of those admitted to the U.S. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  Please respond by December 13, 2016, with your decision as to whether or not you will declassify the U.S.-Australia refugee agreement document. \u00a0If your decision is not to seek declassification, please include your justification for such decision in your response.  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  Thank you in advance for your prompt response. \u00a0Sincerely,\u00a0Bob Goodlatte \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0  ChairmanCommittee on the Judiciary\u00a0\u00a0Charles E. Grassley\u00a0Chairman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0  Committee on the Judiciary-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-continues-push-combat-rising-drug-prices", "Grassley Continues Push to Combat Rising Drug Prices", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, along with Senators Patrick Leahy, Mike Lee and Amy Klobuchar, is pushing to include legislation that would combat rising drug prices for Iowans by deterring brand-name pharmaceutical companies from blocking the entrance of more affordable generic alternatives in the marketplace in the 21st Century CURES bill being debated in the Senate. \u00a0\u201cThe rising price of prescription drugs is having a major impact on families and seniors everywhere.\u00a0 Some brand-name drug companies are engaging in anti-competitive tactics that delay entry of lower cost generic drugs into the market, and this tactic is becoming more common,\u201d Grassley said.\u00a0 \u201cWe need to start taking steps to ensure that our laws are not frustrated and consumers have access to less expensive generic drugs in a timely fashion.\u201dThe stand-alone bill, the Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act, was introduced in June.\u00a0 Currently the FDA has a streamlined approval process whereby generic drug companies can conduct testing of generic versions of a brand-name drug prior to its patent expiration.\u00a0 However, concerns have been raised that some brand-name companies are misusing an FDA program, known as the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS), to thwart that process by preventing the sale of samples of their product and refusing to allow generic competitors to participate in their REMS protocol.\u00a0 These tactics result in blocking generic drug approval and keeping drug prices high for consumers.\u00a0 The CREATES Act addresses this anticompetitive behavior by giving generic companies an opportunity to obtain relief in a timely fashion rather than through lengthy antitrust litigation.The amendment filed by the senators refines the CREATES Act text to ensure patient safety by allowing the FDA to require additional information before approving a request for samples of high risk drugs, and by giving the FDA authority to more easily approve safety protocols.Grassley is also the co-author of the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act which would make sure consumers have access to cost-saving generic drugs by making it illegal for brand-name and generic drug manufacturers to enter into anti-competitive pay-off agreements.\u00a0\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-urges-trade-review-consideration-special-factors-harm-us-steel-producers", "Grassley Urges Trade Review Consideration of Special Factors for Harm to U.S. Steel Producers, Including Montpelier Plant", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley is part of a request to the United States International Trade Commission that it consider specially outlined factors in a trade case involving steel producers, including SSAB Iowa Inc. with a facility in Montpelier in Muscatine County.\u201cWe write to express our concern about unfairly dumped and subsidized carbon and alloy steel cut-to-length plate imports that are harming U.S. producers,\u201d Grassley and fellow senators wrote to Chairman Irving A. Williamson. \u00a0\u201cAs you conduct investigations into the impact of these imports on American manufacturers, we urge you to fully implement the Leveling the Playing Field Act (Title V of P.L. 114-27) and consider a comprehensive list of factors in the Commission\u2019s injury determinations.\u201dThe senators wrote that imports of steel plate have skyrocketed in recent years. \u00a0Between 2013 and 2015, they surged by 100 percent. \u00a0In 2015 alone, the domestic industry estimates that 1.2 million tons of unfairly traded imports, worth $850 million, entered the U.S. market. \u00a0\u201cThese imports have taken their toll, and U.S. producers were forced to file antidumping and countervailing duty cases in April of this year,\u201d the senators wrote.The senators continued, \u201cAs of last year, U.S. producers were utilizing only 66 percent of their capacity, with U.S. plate production falling by nearly 20 percent in 2015. \u00a0U.S. plate producers\u2019 sales dropped by more than one million tons. \u00a0At the same time, the U.S. plate industry\u2019s operating income fell by over 90 percent. \u00a0As a result, more than 200 workers were laid off in 2015. \u00a0Even where workers have been able to keep their jobs, hourly wages have been reduced significantly.\u201dGrassley said the unfair imports are hard on companies such as SSAB Iowa Inc. with a steel coil facility in Montpelier. \u00a0\u201cThe United States needs to use every tool at its disposal to enforce trade rules,\u201d Grassley said. \u00a0\u201cCongress passed the Level the Playing Field Act to be sure the specific effects of unfair imports are considered when determining injury to a domestic industry. \u00a0Steel products are the ideal candidate for this detailed treatment.\u201dIn 2014, Grassley urged full consideration to the domestic steel industry\u2019s concerns about unfairly priced imports in a case that the manufacturer said caused reduced operating hours at a facility in Camanche in Clinton County. \u00a0The latest letter is available here\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/phoenix-va-whistleblowers-vindicated-speaking-out-suicide-prevention", "Phoenix VA Whistleblowers Vindicated for Speaking out on Suicide Prevention", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Judiciary Committee, as a long-time advocate for whistleblowers, wrote to the Department of Veterans Affairs twice about VA retaliation against Brandon Coleman for pointing out poor treatment of suicidal veterans where he worked in Arizona. \u00a0 Eventually, the Office of Special Counsel helped restore Coleman in a VA position after more than a year on administrative leave. \u00a0A new report from the Office of Special Counsel finds that Coleman and another whistleblower likely saved lives by speaking out on suicide risks at the Phoenix VA hospital. \u00a0Grassley has pressed the VA Office of Inspector General to review the suicides of two Iowa veterans. \u00a0One review is under way, and another is under initial evaluation. \u00a0Grassley made the following comment on the latest report involving Coleman and the Arizona VA.\u201cThis is yet more vindication that the whistleblowers in Arizona were in the right. \u00a0It\u2019s further proof that whistleblowers deserve the ear of those in charge. Too often, whistleblowers are ignored in violation of common sense and likely legal protections. \u00a0The problem with veterans suicide is especially serious. When it comes to suicide prevention, every voice must be heard. \u00a0I appreciate the courage of Brandon Coleman and Jared Kinnaman in Phoenix and the many other whistleblowers who speak out every day to help others. \u00a0 I\u2019m grateful for the Office of Special Counsel as well.\u201d-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-support-over-counter-hearing-aid-act-2016", "ICYMI: Support for the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2016", "2016-12-05", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2016 from Sen. Chuck Grassley and Sen. Elizabeth Warren is drawing strong support. \u00a0The bipartisan legislation would make certain types of hearing aids available over the counter and remove unnecessary and burdensome requirements that currently create barriers for consumers who could benefit from hearing aids.\u00a0From the AARP: \u201cDifficulty hearing creates a barrier to social interaction, and can have a negative health impact. Roughly 40 percent of the over-60 population experiences hearing loss. Unfortunately, hearing aid usage by those experiencing hearing loss is very low, with only about 20 percent of those affected using a hearing aid. A significant factor in the lack of utilization is the cost of hearing aids \u2013 which average over $2,000 per ear. Cost and other factors, such as access and social stigma, prevent people from using these life-altering technologies.\u201dFrom the Consumer Technology Association: \u00a0\"The high cost of hearing aids, the inconvenience and the cost of doctor appointments mean most adults with mild hearing loss don't get the hearing assistance they need. Sens. Warren and Grassley's bill is a great step forward to show how technology can drastically improve the quality of life for those with hearing loss.\"From the Hearing Loss Association of America: \u00a0\u201cThe benefit of making hearing aids more affordable and accessible extends far beyond the well-being of the individual with hearing loss and his or her family. \u00a0As more consumers with hearing loss make use of hearing aids, workers become more productive, creating a potential economic benefit to the nation at large.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/survey/60-second-survey-should-we-make-federal-rule-creators-more-accountable", "60 Second Survey - Should we make federal rule creators more accountable?", "2016-12-04", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This year, the federal government is on track to publish the most rules and regulations in our nation\u2019s history.\nBurdensome, costly and ineffective federal rules and regulations created by Washington bureaucrats threaten small businesses, good paying jobs, and the bottom line of hardworking families in\u00a0Iowa and across the country. Yet, Washington bureaucrats continue to implement unnecessary rules and regulations\u00a0which cost our\u00a0job creators time, money, and opportunities when struggling to comply.\nShould there be increased transparency over federal bureaucrats writing rules and regulations?\nClick here to answer the survey question.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394965", "Loebsack, Bustos and Duckworth Applaud Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Democrat", "House", "IA", "Dave Loebsack", "L000565", "loebsack.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-02), Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) and Senator-Elect Tammy Duckworth voted in favor and applauded the passage of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This was the final House passage of the bill, which will now go to the Senate for approval before the President can sign it into law. Representatives Bustos and Loebsack worked with Duckworth, who led this successful effort through the House Armed Services Committee, to include several provisions that will help ensure the long-term success of the Rock Island Arsenal and the more than 6,000 hard working men and women who work on Arsenal Island.\u201cThe Rock Island Arsenal not only supports the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, but also plays a critical role in the Quad Cities economy. I am proud to continue my work with Congresswomen Bustos and Duckworth to ensure the Arsenal has the resources it needs to remain strong,\u201d said Congressman Loebsack. \u201cThe Arsenal is vital to the Quad Cities economy and we must continue to work together to secure and strengthen its future. This provision plays a critical role in equipping our troops and spurring job growth in the Quad Cities region and I will continue to advocate for the Arsenal and its workforce.\u201d\u201cAs one of the largest employers in our region, the Rock Island Arsenal is the economic engine that drives our community\u2019s success, and I\u2019m incredibly pleased that Congress was able to come together to pass this bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Arsenal for years to come,\u201d Congresswoman Bustos said. \u201cI\u2019d like to thank Congressman Loebsack for his dedicated partnership working to strengthen the Quad-Cities community and Congresswoman Duckworth for her work on the Armed Services Committee to include language benefiting the Arsenal in this year\u2019s national defense authorization. This bill will support Rockford\u2019s defense industry, Peoria\u2019s Air National Guard base and the more than 6,000 hard working men and women on Arsenal Island. By passing today's defense authorization, we\u2019re strengthening our national security and helping to ensure a brighter future for all of our communities.\u201d\u201cCongress should do whatever it can to keep our nation safe and create jobs, especially manufacturing jobs, so working with Representatives Bustos and Loebsack to help the Rock Island Arsenal is always an easy decision,\u201d said Duckworth. \u201cAmerican workers have the talent, skill and capability to produce high-quality goods at facilities like the Rock Island Arsenal. As the only member of the Illinois Congressional Delegation serving on the House Armed Services Committee, I was proud to push these amendments through the National Defense Authorization process. They will help support our nation\u2019s defense, enhance readiness, protect thousands of jobs in our state, and reduce over-reliance on foreign goods in sensitive weapons systems.\u201dRepresentatives Loebsack, Bustos and Duckworth worked together to include several provisions similar to the bipartisan Army Arsenal Revitalization Act and the Make It At Home Act. Specifically, the legislation will strengthen the Arsenal by requiring that the Army: - Compile and submit to Congress a plan to ensure the long-term viability of federal military manufacturing facilities, including Army arsenals. \u00a0\r\n- Identify equipment, weapons, and other items purchased from foreign entities that could be manufactured in Army arsenals and other facilities.\r\n- Report on the manufacturing skills that are needed to sustain the readiness of the U.S. Armed Forces.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/young-statement-house-passage-2017-ndaa", "Young Statement on House Passage of 2017 NDAA", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Young Statement on House Passage of 2017 NDAA\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0- Iowa Congressman David Young released the following statement after voting in support of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2017, legislation to support our nation\u2019s military, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of\u00a0375-34.\n\u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA ensures our military has the tools, training, and support they need to keep our country and her people safe, while giving our military members the pay raise they deserve. I\u2019m pleased to support this important legislation as we continue our efforts to ensure our military meets the ever evolving global threats and challenges our nation faces, and work to secure our communities in Iowa and across the country.\u201d\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/weeklyreport/patients-and-their-families-come-first", "Patients and their Families Come First", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Patients and their Families Come First\nIn this country, we have some of the most talented medical researchers in the world working tirelessly to investigate the diseases, cancers, and other health issues affecting countless Americans and their families. The work of these researchers and their programs drives health care innovation, and offers hope to many patients and their families seeking treatment or a cure.\nWith this in mind, many folks in Iowa and across the country will be pleased to learn the House recently passed the 21st Century Cures Act, trailblazing health care and research legislation aimed to improve the way we treat and cure diseases. This was bipartisan legislation I supported and voted for, to improve the lives of patients and their families.\nThe 21st Century Cures Act cuts red tape, addresses harmful rules and regulations, and works to speed up the development of new drugs and devices. Everyone should have access to effective treatments and cures, and this legislation helps to remove barriers getting in the way of innovation Americans need to combat health risks and diseases.\nThis legislation also includes important mental health care reforms, providing for improvements in how we treat the mental health care issues so many Americans face. With approximately 43.8 million Americans experiencing some type of mental illness each year, these improvements will put evidence-based care at the forefront of treatment options, to modernize our mental health care system in a significant, positive way.\nNotably, this important legislation addresses health care improvements in a commonsense, fiscally responsible way. Any new funding in the 21st Century Cures Act will be fully offset, and annually reviewed, to increase accountability for hardworking American taxpayers, while benefiting researchers, doctors, patients and their families.\nI\u2019m pleased to have supported this important legislation, for our families in Iowa and in communities across the country. This is an important step for patients and their loved ones suffering from disease. After all, improving access to effective, affordable health care treatment is not a Republican or Democrat issue, it is a bipartisan issue, and improvements to ensure our loved ones have the best possible care and treatments is something we can all support.\nThanks to the hard work and dedication of numerous legislators on both sides of the political aisle, this legislation next heads to the Senate, where I am hopeful it will be quickly acted upon and approved. From there, this legislation will head to the president\u2019s desk, where it can be signed into law.\nWith the 21st Century Cures Act, together we can work towards breakthroughs for patients and their families and bring medical innovation into the 21st century.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/qa-21st-century-cures-act", "Q&A:  21st Century Cures Act", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With U.S. Senator Chuck GrassleyQ: What is the \u201c21st Century Cures Act?\u201dA: \u00a0As Americans we are blessed to live in a free society that bestows inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness to its citizenry. For me, it is an honor to represent Iowans in the United States Senate and I take seriously the incredible responsibility to make sure that our government works for the people, not the other way around. Throughout my years of public service, I have made it a priority to listen to Iowans so that I have the benefit of your views when crafting public policy for public benefit. I very much appreciate when Iowans take the time to participate in representative government to influence and shape decisions that will impact their lives and livelihoods. An issue that generates overwhelming participation and strong opinion among Iowans from all walks of life is advocacy for medical treatments and cures for chronic and terminal illnesses, debilitating diseases and mental and behavioral health issues that impact the daily lives of loved ones. From cancer, to diabetes, Alzheimer\u2019s and Parkinson\u2019s and so many other chronic medical conditions and rare diseases, profound support exists to foster more innovation in health care and medical science to help spread hope, healing and health for our fellow Americans. As a fiscal conservative and champion for good government, I work to make sure the federal spigot doesn\u2019t shower limited resources down the drain. Instead, good stewardship demands that tax dollars are used wisely and effectively to advance medical science and improve the delivery of health care and patient outcomes. The Cures Act has been in the works for three years and includes broad-based input from patient advocacy groups, doctors, public health officials, medical researchers and policymakers to help get treatments and cures to patients quickly and safely.Q: How will this bill help Iowans?A:\u00a0 The $6.3 billion Cures Act is good news for patient care. It would inject the views of patients into the drug approval process and accelerate the regulatory process to bring treatments and cures to the market more quickly. Modernizing clinical trials, boosting funding for mental health care, expanding opioid painkiller abuse, prevention and treatment programs and encouraging the use of electronic health records systems will strengthen and improve patient health in America in the 21st century. For Iowans, it will open up opportunities for our teaching hospitals and research institutions to secure federal grants to help deliver new scientific discovery and medical innovation. Specifically, it authorizes $1.8 billion for cancer research and $3 billion for biomedical research. Local communities crippled by a growing surge in painkiller addiction may benefit from $1 billion authorized to prevent and treat opioid and heroin abuse and overdose. I\u2019m also glad my longstanding efforts to improve mental health parity will continue to grow with specific provisions that will expand research, treatment and care for mental illnesses and disorders. Finally, the Cures Act extends provisions for community hospitals I have long championed to support the delivery of health care to patients living in rural America. I\u2019m glad patients served by hospitals in Grinnell, Carroll, Newton and Spirit Lake will continue to benefit from the rural community hospital demonstration program, as well as residents served by the 82 critical access hospitals located throughout Iowa. Iowans deserve access to life-saving treatments, medical services and emergency care in their communities and I will continue working to make sure our hospitals and health care providers are able to provide these services in rural America.  \u00a0  Q: Which provisions of the sweeping legislation did you influence before final passage?A:\u00a0 When it comes to protecting the public purse and benefiting the public good, I\u2019ve found that transparency is the best prescription for accountability. A few years ago, I secured into law a tool that sheds light on payments between health care providers and pharmaceutical companies. My \u201cPhysician Payments Sunshine Act\u201d created an open payments database that lists industry payments to doctors. And so I withheld my support for the \u201c21st Century Cures Act\u201d until a provision watering down the open payments provision was rescinded. With sky-rocketing prescription drug prices and unaffordable health care costs, we need to foster more transparency, not less, when it comes to medical discovery and delivery of care. I\u2019m also glad my bipartisan efforts to strip an Obamacare penalty against small businesses that provided assistance to their employees to help with insurance premiums and health care expenses was included in the Cures Act.\u00a0 Employer-sponsored health coverage has become an unaffordable option for about 60 percent of small businesses. And yet, smaller employers who want to help their employees were stymied by an outrageous IRS regulation that would penalize those who reimbursed employees for health care costs with tax-preferred contributions.\u00a0 Small businesses that participated in the reimbursements could be fined up to $36,500 per employee each year. This misguided IRS rule will be rolled back with passage of the Cures Act. The House overwhelmingly passed the Cures Act 392-26 and I will vote in the Senate to send the bill to the president\u2019s desk.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-warren-introduce-legislation-make-hearing-aids-more-accessible-and", "Grassley, Warren Introduce Legislation to Make Hearing Aids More Accessible and Affordable", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC -- U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) on Thursday introduced the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2016. The bipartisan legislation would make certain types of hearing aids available over the counter (OTC) and remove unnecessary and burdensome requirements that currently create barriers for consumers who could benefit from hearing aids. Approximately 30 million Americans experience age-related hearing loss, yet only about 14 percent of those with hearing loss use assistive hearing technology, often because they cannot afford costly hearing aids.\"Millions of people in Massachusetts and across the country experience hearing loss as they get older, but they are unable to get the hearing aids they need because of high costs and complicated regulations,\" Warren said. \"This bipartisan bill is a simple fix that that will make hearing aids easier to access and - unlike in the current marketplace - will make it easier for consumers to shop for the best value.\"\"I hear from Iowans about the high cost of hearing aids, and I understand the concern,\" Grassley said. \u00a0\"If you can buy non-prescription reading glasses over the counter, it makes sense that you should be able to buy basic, safe hearing aids, too. \u00a0The goal is that by making more products more easily available to consumers, competition will increase and lead to lower costs. \u00a0More consumer choice and convenience are what we want to accomplish with this legislation. \u00a0This won't affect those who need professional expertise to be fitted for hearing aids or have hearing aids implanted. \u00a0The over-the-counter option is for those who would benefit from a simpler device.\"The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2016 would allow hearing aids that are intended to be used by adults to compensate for mild to moderate hearing impairment to be sold over the counter, and would eliminate the requirement that people get a medical evaluation or sign a waiver in order to acquire these hearing aids. \u00a0It also asks the FDA to issue regulations containing safety and labeling requirements for this new category of OTC hearing aids and update its draft guidance on Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs).The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act implements recommendations from the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, which have both recommended making some types of hearing aids available over the counter and removing the requirement of a medical evaluation in order to allow millions more Americans to access hearing aids. Out of pocket costs for a single hearing aid currently average around $2,400. According to a report by PCAST, \"There is considerable evidence that hearing aids can be profitably sold for a fraction of today's end-user cost.\"The bill is supported by the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), the Consumer Technology Association, Bose, and the Gerontological Society of America.The text of the senators' bill is available here, and a fact sheet is available here.  \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-fights-ensure-accountability-federal-bureaucracy", "Grassley Fights to Ensure Accountability in Federal Bureaucracy", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and watchdog of the federal bureaucracy, is working to ensure that inspectors general, the public\u2019s eyes and ears for rooting out waste, fraud and abuse within the executive branch, have access to all necessary documents to conduct an investigation.\u201cInspectors general are critical to good governance and the rule of law, but in order for them to do their jobs, they need independent access to information,\u201d Grassley said. \u00a0\u201cAgencies denying access to necessary documents is unacceptable. \u00a0It undermines Congress\u2019 intent and the rule of law, and it makes a mockery of government transparency. \u00a0And, if we learned anything in the last year, it\u2019s that government can use more transparency, not less.\u201dGrassley today requested to bring up his legislation, the Inspector General Empowerment Act, to clarify once and for all that inspectors general are to receive all documents necessary to do the jobs Congress requires them to do. \u00a0Grassley and the authors of the bill made tweaks to incorporate various ideas of other members, but the crux of the bill-ensuring access to documents for inspectors general-remains the same. \u00a0His request to pass the bill by unanimous consent was blocked by another member. \u00a0The fix was needed after more and more federal agencies began refusing to allow inspectors general to review all of their records, in direct contradiction of the Inspector General Act of 1978 which created inspectors general as independent and objective units within the executive branch. \u00a0The law authorizes inspectors general access to all records belonging to their respective agency so they can thoroughly investigate how the government operates. \u00a0This access has helped these watchdogs identify many significant cases of excessive spending and misconduct over the years. \u00a0There are consequences when agencies deny important documents to inspectors general. \u00a0For example an important investigation at the Peace Corps was stalled into the agency\u2019s handling of sexual assault reports by its volunteers.\u00a0  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0  The text of Grassley\u2019s floor statement asking to bring up the bill is below. \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Prepared Floor Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of IowaChairman, Senate Judiciary CommitteeInspector General Empowerment Act (S.579)December 1, 2016In 1978, Congress created Inspectors General\u2014or IGs\u2014to be our eyes and ears within the executive branch. These independent watchdogs are designed to keep Congress and the public informed about waste, fraud, and abuse in government. They also help agency leaders identify problems and inefficiencies that they may not be aware of.\u00a0So, IGs are critical to good governance and to the rule of law. But in order for IGs to do their jobs, they need independent access to information. That\u2019s why when Congress passed the Inspector General Act in 1978, we explicitly said that IGs should have access to ALL records of the agency that they\u2019re charged with overseeing. \u00a0However, since 2010, more and more agencies have refused to comply with this legal obligation. \u00a0This obstruction has slowed down far too many important investigations\u2014ranging from sexual assaults in the Peace Corps to the FBI\u2019s exercise of anti-terrorism authorities under the PATRIOT Act. \u00a0And those are just two of the oversight issues that I've been involved in. Every one of the other 99 senators would probably have to say that in their oversight work, somehow the executive branch agencies have not carried out the spirit of the 1978 legislation.But it got worse in July of 2016. The Justice Department\u2019s Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) released a memo supporting this obstruction of Congressional intent.Now, let me put this in a common sense form that surely everybody ought to understand. In 1978 Congress passes the inspector general's law. It's voted on by a majority of the Congress. It's sent to the president. The president signs this. It's been law since that period of time. But we have a situation where one bureaucrat out of two million federal employees sits and reads something into a piece of legislation that was never intended because the legislation says that the inspector general should be entitled to all records. But the office of legal counsel opinion says, well, maybe not all. It kind of depends on the head of the department.\u00a0Now, there are some exceptions in the inspector general law that ought to be there. Those are spelled out. Some of them dealing with national security. Some of them dealing with the Department of Defense. It\u2019s just one example. So we have this opinion in July 2016.The memo argued that Congress did not really mean what it very clearly said \u2013 that IGs get access to \u201call records\u201d. \u00a0That is unacceptable. \u00a0It undermines Congress\u2019 intent and the rule of law, and makes a mockery of government transparency. The public deserves robust scrutiny of the federal government. \u00a0And every eighth grade civic student understands what checks and balances is all about. And congressional oversight is one of those checks  So, since September of 2015, a bipartisan group of senators and I have been working to overturn the Justice Department\u2019s opinion through S.579, the Inspector General Empowerment Act.\u00a0Among other things, this bill further clarifies that Congress intended IGs to access ALL agency records, notwithstanding any other provision of law, unless other laws specifically state that IGs are not to receive such access. \u00a0A lot of those fall under areas of national security and defense.The bill has a total of 20 co-sponsors, including seven of my esteemed Democratic colleagues: Senators McCaskill, Carper, Mikulski, Wyden, Baldwin, Manchin, and Peters. \u00a0And at a Judiciary Committee hearing in August of last year, Senator Leahy also agreed that this access problem needs to be fixed by legislation, because it is \u201cblocking what was once a free flow of information.\u201dEven the Justice Department witness at that hearing disagreed with the results of the OLC opinion and supported legislative action to solve the problem.As of today, a large majority of Senators, the Las Vegas Review-Journal, and I say that for the benefit of Senator Reid who one time objected, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and good governance groups like the Project on Government Oversight and Citizens Against Government Waste, all support restoring the intent of that Act\u2014through S.579. \u00a0The intent of the act, I want to emphasize, was destroyed by one bureaucrat writing a legal opinion that's been a crunch for a lot of people that don't want to cooperate with the inspector general.But, despite strong bipartisan and public support for the bill, we have not been able to pass the bill by unanimous consent.We attempted to pass the bill by unanimous consent in September 2015 and again in December 2015. In December, the Armed Services Committee and the Intelligence Committee raised concerns about the bill. It\u2019s perfectly legitimate for them to do that. My co-sponsors and I worked with our colleagues on these committees to address and resolve their concerns. Ultimately, Chairman McCain and Chairman Burr lifted their holds, and in December 2015, the bill cleared the Republican side with no objections. But when we tried to pass the bill on the floor by unanimous consent, Senator Reid objected on the Democratic side. In the meantime, the House passed its own version of the bill. Since then, we have worked closely with the House to resolve minor differences between the House and Senate bills.\u00a0Now it is time to press forward, and finally pass this critical bill to ensure effective oversight of waste, fraud, and abuse in government. \u00a0In other words, to make very clear that when the act says they are entitled to all records, all means all.There is one provision of the bill that we have had to remove from this version at the insistence of Senator Leahy. It relates to testimonial subpoena authority for Inspectors General. First, let me be clear about why the testimonial subpoena authority is important to the ability of IGs to conduct effective investigations.\u00a0When employees of the U.S. government are accused of wrongdoing or misconduct, IGs should be able to conduct a full and thorough investigation. Unfortunately, employees who may have violated that trust are often able to evade the IG\u2019s inquiry, simply by retiring from the government. So, the testimonial subpoena authority empowers IGs to obtain testimony about waste, fraud, and abuse from employees after they leave an agency.Similarly, the subpoena authority helps IGs investigate entities that receive federal funds. In other words, if you want to know what\u2019s wrong, follow the money. The subpoena authority enables IGs to require testimony from government contractors and subcontractors and grantees and sub-grantees.Currently, most IGs can subpoena documents from entities outside their agency. But, most cannot subpoena testimony. The ability to require witnesses outside the agency to talk to the IG can be critical in carrying out an inspector general\u2019s statutory duties or recovering wasted federal funds.Let me also be clear that when we learned of Senator Leahy\u2019s concerns with this provision in November 2015, my bipartisan cosponsors and I worked in good faith for twelve months to address them. We offered at least half a dozen accommodations that would provide meaningful and appropriate limitations on the subpoena authority in question. But Senator Leahy continued to demand it be removed from the bill entirely.Despite a year of negotiating, we were unable to reach a solution, so I proposed bringing the provision to the floor for debate. I offered to Senator Leahy the option of debating on the floor the merits of the testimonial subpoena authority, so that the Senate could vote on whether to keep or remove the provision from the bill. But my colleague declined to agree to floor time for open debate on this provision.\u00a0His continued refusal to debate and vote on the much-needed testimonial subpoena authority threatens to derail the entire bill, which has such substantial bipartisan and public support. So, despite my strong belief that IGs need testimonial subpoena authority, I also recognize that the IG bill contains many other critical provisions that the IGs need now to do their jobs.We cannot afford to wait any longer for those provisions that empower the IGs. This bill is still necessary to help IGs and to assure to the American people that there is transparency and accountability within the government.\u00a0At this time, before I ask unanimous consent, though, I'd like to say for the benefit of what I think a position that senator McCain's going to take, that the secretary under existing law may block an IG investigation if it is necessary to preserve the national security and interest of the United States, and if the information the IG has requested concerns any one of five categories: sensitive operation plans, intelligence matters, counterintelligence matters, ongoing criminal investigations, or other matters that would constitute a serious threat to national security if that were to be disclosed.\u00a0Now I would ask unanimous consent that the senate proceed to the immediate consideration of calendar number 68, S. 579. I ask further that the Johnson substitute amendment be agreed to, the bill as amended be read a third time and passed, and that the motion to reconsider be made and laid upon the table.\u00a0  Senator Grassley\u2019s Remarks Following Senator McCain\u2019s ObjectionI knew ahead of time that we would have this objection. The only difference between this objection this time and a year ago is the fact that a year ago we worked out differences with other committees of the Congress and had evidently 99 senators ready to pass this bill, except for senator Reid, and so it's disappointing that when we work out one problem that we had a year ago, that now we have serious objections\u2026\u00a0I would simply close with further evidence of the importance of this legislation and try to respond to what the senator from Arizona said about its impact on the defense department. Section 8 of the IG Act already contains an exception that allows the secretary of defense to prohibit the inspector general from conducting an investigation and gathering documents to protect national security.The exception is broad. The secretary may block an IG investigation if it's necessary to preserve the national security interests of the United States and if the information the IG has requested concerns sensitive operation plans, intelligence matters, counterintelligence matters, ongoing criminal investigations, and other matters that would constitute a serious threat to national security if disclosed. In addition, cosponsors and I worked with the Armed Services Committee last year to ensure that the bill makes the Secretary of Defense\u2019s authority to restrict certain kinds of sensitive information even more clear than it was in the 1978 legislation. After we made those changes, senator McCain, as I've already said, cleared this version of the access language last year.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-votes-iran-sanctions-extension-act", "Grassley Votes for Iran Sanctions Extension Act", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Senate voted 99-0 today to approve the Iran Sanctions Extension Act (H.R. 6297). \u00a0The vote follows House passage of counterpart legislation by a vote of 419-1. \u00a0The legislation extends the Iran Sanctions Act through 2026. \u00a0The act is designed to prevent the Iranian regime from obtaining resources to support terrorism and develop weapons of mass destruction. \u00a0Sen. Chuck Grassley made the following comment on the vote.\u201cI was glad to support the extension of the Iran Sanctions Act. \u00a0The sanctions regime, which was set to expire at the end of this year, was the driving force to bring Iran to the negotiating table on nuclear weapons. \u00a0Extending the sanctions regime for ten years is critical to ensure that the United States continues to have these tools at its disposal to respond to Iranian threats and provocations. \u00a0Because of the flawed nuclear deal negotiated by the Obama Administration, it\u2019s imperative that the United States maintains strong sanctions authority in case Iran fails to live up to the deal.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-whitehouse-speak-out-against-blocking-bill-protect-children-juvenile", "Grassley, Whitehouse Speak Out Against Blocking of Bill to Protect Children in Juvenile Justice System", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senators Charles Grassley (R-IA) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) requested that the Senate pass bipartisan legislation to protect and improve the lives of young people involved with our juvenile and criminal justice systems. \u00a0Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) objected to the request, blocking passage of the bill. \u00a0Grassley and Whitehouse released the following statements regarding the action on the Senate floor.\u201cEver since Sen. Whitehouse and I began working on our juvenile justice reform package two years ago, we\u2019ve worked to include input from our colleagues to get a meaningful bill to the President\u2019s desk. \u00a0Our goal has always been to improve a federal grant program to ensure youth who encounter the juvenile justice system are treated safely, fairly, and in a way that encourages greater respect for the law, while being good stewards of taxpayer dollars,\u201d said Grassley.\u00a0\u201cSen. Cotton has suggested that judges should retain the authority to jail youth for violating court orders even when the underlying offense would never land an adult behind bars \u2013 offenses like truancy or underage tobacco use. \u00a0We\u2019ve gone back and forth with Sen. Cotton to address his concerns, and today\u2019s effort to pass a House bill is another example of our efforts. \u00a0Unfortunately, Sen. Cotton objected to moving forward with this latest compromise, which would grant states even greater flexibility than what was in our original bill. \u00a0We will continue working to find a path forward to provide a long overdue policy update to the juvenile justice program and ensure that it is effectively serving our most vulnerable youth as intended,\u201d Grassley said.\u201cYoung people in our juvenile justice system should have the chance to turn their lives around and contribute to society,\u201d said Whitehouse. \u00a0\u201cThis bill would help them do that by ramping up delinquency prevention efforts, addressing offenders\u2019 mental health and substance abuse issues, and providing safer conditions for those in custody. \u00a0It also calls on states receiving federal funds to end the practice of locking children up for offenses that aren\u2019t considered criminal if committed by an adult, like skipping school.\u201d\u00a0\u201cSince we began work on this legislation in 2014, it has won the support of large, bipartisan majorities in both houses of Congress, and from national law enforcement groups, juvenile justice advocates, and juvenile and family court judges. \u00a0It has the backing of the Arkansas State Advisory Group, Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, and the Arkansas Division of Youth Services. \u00a0We understand Senator Cotton had concerns with aspects of the bill and we worked with him closely throughout the year to address them. \u00a0We have agreed to take up the version of this bill that passed the House, which was modified to address concerns like those voiced by Senator Cotton. \u00a0That is why I am deeply disappointed Senator Cotton has chosen to abandon compromise and stand in the way of this important bipartisan legislation to help some of our most vulnerable children,\u201d Whitehouse said.Grassley and Whitehouse introduced legislation in the Senate in 2015 to reauthorize and improve the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) of 1974, which provides grants that encourage states to meet core requirements for the treatment of juveniles in contact with the criminal justice system. \u00a0Their bill provides additional support and protections for youth, including addressing mental health and substance abuse issues and strengthening delinquency prevention efforts. \u00a0It would also guard against fraud and mismanagement of federal funds through enhanced oversight of JJDPA grant programs. \u00a0The Senate Judiciary Committee passed the bill in July 2015. \u00a0The House passed similar legislation this September by a vote of 382-29.Grassley and Whitehouse\u2019s legislation is supported by more than 150 organizations.Grassley's remarks on the Senate floor requesting unanimous consent to pass the bill are below:\u00a0Prepared Floor Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of IowaChairman, Senate Judiciary CommitteeUnanimous Consent Request to Advance Juvenile Justice ReformNovember 30, 2016Mr. President, soon I will offer a unanimous consent request. It is in regard to a bill that would reform and reauthorize federal juvenile justice programs. \u00a0Known as the \u201cSupporting Youth Opportunity and Preventing Delinquency Act of 2016,\u201d it passed the other chamber last month by a vote of 382-29.This bipartisan House bill is modeled closely on one that I introduced over a year ago with Senator Whitehouse. \u00a0That legislation, titled the \u201cJuvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Reauthorization Act,\u201d has 19 Senate cosponsors and cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee, which I chair, without a single dissenting vote last year. \u00a0The House companion before us today also won the unanimous approval of a committee in the other chamber, before passing the House with overwhelming support a few weeks ago. \u00a0The two bills are remarkably similar in many, or most, respects, including their objectives.One such objective is to extend the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act for five more years. That federal statute was last reauthorized in 2002, and it\u2019s long overdue for an update: \u00a0Congress still is funding juvenile justice programs that expired in 2007, or nearly a decade ago. \u00a0I think my colleagues know the hard work of Senator Enzi, Chairman of the Budget Committee, a program that he has to identify the hundreds of billions of dollars that we're spending of taxpayers' money that has not been authorized by the authorizing committees. So getting a lot of bills that have expired reauthorized is in the spirit of what Senator Enzi is trying to promote among the committees we have in the United States Senate that don't do their work on a regular basis.At the centerpiece of the 1974 Act is its core protections for youth. \u00a0Over 40 years ago, Congress committed to making federal grants available to States that observe these core protections, of which there are now four.\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The first core protection discourages the detention of children and youth for extremely minor infractions, such as truancy, underage tobacco use, disobeying parents, or running away. No state would ever jail an adult for this same conduct, and research shows that nothing much positive comes out of locking up children for conduct that isn\u2019t even criminal. \u00a0\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The second core protection calls for juveniles to be kept out of adult facilities, except in certain rare instances.\u00a0\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The third calls for juveniles to be separated from adults when they are held in adult facilities.\u00a0\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The fourth calls for States to try to reduce disproportionate minority contact in their juvenile justice systems.\u00a0Those goals are from 1974 and are still legitimate goals. Under our proposed legislation, as under current law, if a State commits to meeting these core protections for youth, it can expect to continue receiving federal grant money to support its juvenile justice activities. \u00a0\u00a0Our second objective for this legislation is to make reforms to current law so that taxpayer-supported juvenile justice programs will yield the best possible outcomes. To that end, our bill reflects the latest research on what works best with at-risk children and youth.\u00a0We added provisions to promote the rehabilitation of runaways who are at high risk of being trafficked. \u00a0We included language to discourage the shackling of pregnant juveniles during childbirth. After learning that a handful of States receiving federal grant funds are locking up children as young as 8 or 9 for minor infractions like truancy, we called for the phase-out of \u201cvalid court orders\u201d permitting that practice. \u00a0Last, but not least, we responded to concerns voiced by whistleblowers, by adding accountability measures to protect the taxpayers and promote more oversight of juvenile justice programs. \u00a0And these accountability measures are something that I've been working on both as ranking member of the Judiciary Committee and chairman of that committee for a long period of time, not just on the juvenile justice program but on a lot of other programs where the taxpayers' money is being wasted by having different standards in some programs versus the others. And particularly when the bureaucracy at the Justice Department is not policing what states do and they let the states get away with it. We have all kinds of GAO reports or inspector general reports that come back to us that say this money is not following intent that was intended by Congress. And I think all senators assume a responsibility to make sure the taxpayers' money will go as far as it can. And so we worked some of those accountability issues into every bill that I can get out of the Justice Department that affects these programs.Groups such as the Campaign for Youth Justice, Coalition for Juvenile Justice, Boys Town, Fight Crime Invest in Kids, among many others, endorsed the legislation and contributed input. We also consulted the National Criminal Justice Association, the National District Attorneys Association, and a coalition of roughly two dozen anti-human trafficking groups, which endorsed the legislation as well. \u00a0\u00a0The House bill before us today includes many or most of the same provisions that Senator Whitehouse and I championed, and it enjoys the support of virtually all of the same 100-plus organizations that endorsed the version we sponsored in this chamber. \u00a0But the House made a few key changes to preserve more flexibility for States. \u00a0For example:\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0States that object to phasing out the detention of status offenders over a period of three years can invoke a one-year \u201chardship\u201d exception. \u00a0That hardship exception is renewable every year, for an indefinite period, at the State\u2019s option. \u00a0\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The House-passed measure also includes a modified version of legislation that Senators Inhofe, Casey, and Vitter backed in this chamber. \u00a0That language would encourage the rehabilitation of youth who are at risk of becoming involved in gangs or the criminal justice system.This House bill shouldn\u2019t be controversial, which is why we\u2019re requesting unanimous consent to have the Senate pass it today. \u00a0Again, I remind my colleagues that the other chamber passed it by an overwhelming vote in September, after the Education Committee, under Chairman John Kline\u2019s leadership, reported the measure without a single dissenting vote. \u00a0I also want to thank our cosponsors, including the current Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee, Senator Leahy, as well as the future Ranking Member, Senator Feinstein, for their support of this legislation. \u00a0Unfortunately, when we sought to bring up the Senate version by unanimous consent back in February, a single Senator objected, preventing its passage. \u00a0He has objected to language that would require States to embrace one of the 42-year-old core protections. \u00a0Mr. President, before this Congress comes to a close, we have a great opportunity to pass an important piece of legislation to help some of the most vulnerable children and youth in the United States. But it\u2019s not just these at-risk children who would benefit: \u00a0due to the reforms we\u2019ve included in this bill, the legislation would benefit the taxpayers too. \u00a0\u00a0For these reasons, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. 1169. \u00a0  Chairman Grassley\u2019s Remarks for the Record Following Sen. Cotton\u2019s ObjectionMr. President, I am disappointed that the junior Senator from Arkansas continues to impose the only remaining roadblock to passage of this critical piece of legislation. \u00a0Back in February, Senator Cotton pledged to work with Senator Whitehouse and me to resolve our sole point of disagreement on this bill. \u00a0I know that others, including Senator Cornyn, have made repeated overtures to Senator Cotton as well. \u00a0However, we are still at an impasse.Our disagreement stems from a 42-year-old provision of the federal juvenile justice law that encourages States to phase out the detention of children who commit infractions, such as running away from home, skipping school, disobeying parents, or underage tobacco use. \u00a0This statutory provision\u2014which has been on the books since 1974\u2014extends a \u201ccarrot,\u201d in the form of Federal grant funds, to any state that commits to deinstitutionalizing \u00a0juveniles who commit extremely minor infractions, also known as \u201cstatus offenses.\u201dThe reason for this core protection is simple: Locking up children for conduct, like running away or underage tobacco use, which could never, ever result in an adult\u2019s being jailed defies logic and common sense.\u00a0For example, when you lock up a child for truancy, you ensure that the child will miss even more school and fall even further behind in schoolwork. \u00a0At the same time, you\u2019ve done little, if anything, to resolve the underlying issue that led to the truancy. \u00a0Similarly, very little is accomplished by locking up a repeat runaway who\u2019s being abused at home. \u00a0\u00a0I urge the Senator to consider what happens when a judge sends an especially young child, who has committed the most minor infraction, known as a \u201cstatus offense,\u201d in juvenile detention with more hardened or violent offenders. \u00a0That young child, who has committed no crime whatsoever, is particularly vulnerable to abuse by older juveniles in detention. \u00a0 \u00a0Consider, too, that some of these children come from broken homes or have mental health issues. \u00a0They are among the most vulnerable members of our communities and need our help. They don\u2019t need to be dumped in a detention facility where they will be exposed to violent criminals who have committed much more serious crimes than skipping school. \u00a0In the decades since 1974, Congress made good on its pledge to appropriate resources for every State that committed to fulfill the core requirements under the federal juvenile justice statute. And about half of the States, recognizing that the detention of status offenders is mostly ineffective and tremendously costly, have made good on their commitment under this grant program. \u00a0These states have phased out the practice of locking up status offenders entirely. \u00a0In another couple dozen States, judges invoke the \u201cvalid court order\u201d exception sparingly. \u00a0The exception is just that, an exception to be invoked only rarely. \u00a0Status offenders end up in detention only occasionally in these states. \u00a0\u00a0But in a tiny handful of States, and Arkansas appears to be one, some judges send status offenders to detention much more regularly. \u00a0It\u2019s been reported that some of the children in detention for status offenses in Arkansas are as young as 8 or 9. \u00a0Juvenile advocates have charged that some judges are sending status offenders to detention as a general practice, which has led to calls for reform. \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0The Senator notes that the Arkansas legislature has chosen to retain the option of jailing children for status offenses as a last resort option. \u00a0This bill does not change that. This bill is not a mandate that would override that state\u2019s law. \u00a0It merely lays out conditions for receiving Federal grant money. Arkansas is still free to not comply with the conditions set forth in this legislation.I want to remind my colleague that over 100 nonprofit groups, numerous judges, and about 1000 law enforcement officers support this legislation. They agree that detaining child status offenders is not good public policy, based on significant research that points to the same conclusion. \u00a0I would also remind my colleague that judges have multiple other options to hold these juveniles accountable. The other options include, for example, suspending the juvenile\u2019s driver\u2019s license, imposing fines, or ordering the juvenile into counseling, with or without parents. \u00a0Counseling and other community-based alternatives not only cost much less, but are more effective than locking up children alongside violent criminals, research suggests.  The junior Senator from Arkansas pledged to work this singular issue with myself and Senator Whitehouse, over nine months ago. I have worked in good faith to address his concerns, but he has been unwilling to compromise. Still, this one issue is holding up a bill that is vital to help the children in our country.Once again, I would like to point out that this legislation does not affect state law in the Senator\u2019s home state of Arkansas. \u00a0We are merely imposing conditions to receiving federal grant money. \u00a0If this bill passes, which I hope will happen today, Arkansas is free to continue to invoke the valid court exception. So I ask that the Senator lift his hold on this critical piece of legislation.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-seeks-details-somali-refugee-behind-ohio-state-university-attack", "Grassley Seeks Details on Somali Refugee Behind Ohio State University Attack", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley is seeking the immigration and criminal history of the man who launched an attack on Ohio State University\u2019s campus Monday, leaving 11 people injured. \u00a0Abdul Razak Ali Artan, the student at the university who crashed his vehicle into a crowd before getting out and slashing people with a knife, is believed to be a refugee originally from Somalia.\u00a0According to reports, federal investigators believe Artan was inspired by ISIS and the radical cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, and are treating the incident as an act of terrorism. \u00a0An ISIS propaganda website also called Artan a \u201csoldier.\u201dIn a letter late yesterday to Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, Grassley is requesting all records related to Artan\u2019s immigration and criminal history to gain a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding his arrival into the United States as well as any subsequent encounters with immigration or law enforcement authorities.\u00a0Grassley\u2019s letter to Johnson follows:November 29, 2016The Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary  U.S. Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528Dear Secretary Johnson:Yesterday, an Ohio State University student attacked pedestrians on campus with his car and a butcher\u2019s knife leaving 11 injured. \u00a0According to reports, 18-year-old Abdul Razak Ali Artan was alone in his vehicle when he slammed into a group of people, hopped out, and stabbed several others with a butcher\u2019s knife. \u00a0The university warned all students on campus to shelter-in-place during the attack.\u00a0According to sources, Abdul Razak Ali Artan is a lawful permanent resident who originally came to the United States from Somalia as a refugee. \u00a0Investigators have determined that Artan was inspired by ISIS rhetoric and that this was an act of terror. \u00a0 To better understand the situation, please provide a description of Abdul Razak Ali Artan\u2019s immigration history and copies of his Alien File, including any temporary files, working files, and all documents and items contained in them that were generated by DHS or in its possession about him, whether currently in written or electronic form, including, but not limited to, the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Executive Summary, criminal history and immigration summaries, detainers or requests for notification, I-213(s), and Notice(s) to Appear or other charging documents created to seek his removal from the United States.I anticipate that your written reply and any responsive documents will be unclassified. \u00a0Please send all unclassified material directly to the Committee. \u00a0In keeping with the requirements of Executive Order 13526, if any of the responsive documents do contain classified information, please segregate all unclassified material within the classified documents, provide all unclassified information directly to the Committee, and provide a classified addendum to the Office of Senate Security. \u00a0Although the Committee complies with all laws and regulations governing the handling of classified information, it is not bound, absent its prior agreement, by any handling restrictions or instructions on unclassified information unilaterally asserted by the Executive Branch.Thank you for your attention to this matter. \u00a0Please respond by December 12, 2016. \u00a0If you have any questions, please contact Katherine Nikas of my Committee staff at (202) 224-5225.  \u00a0\u00a0  Sincerely,Charles E. Grassley  Chairman  Senate Committee on the Judiciary\u00a0cc:\u00a0The Honorable Patrick Leahy\u00a0  Ranking Member\u00a0  Senate Committee on the Judiciary-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-measure-weakening-transparency-law-dropped", "ICYMI: Measure Weakening Transparency Law is Dropped", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As the co-author of the successful Physician Payments Sunshine Act on drug and device company payments to doctors, Sen. Chuck Grassley was concerned by an attempt to strip part of the law. \u00a0Ultimately, Sen. Grassley prevailed. \u00a0The controversial provision is gone.From a Minneapolis Star Tribune editorial:\u201cGrassley was one of the Sunshine Law\u2019s strongest champions, arguing sensibly that shining a light on these payments is timely and important. Patients should be able to decide for themselves if their doctor\u2019s financial interests may have influenced a prescription for an expensive drug or particular medical device.\u201dFrom the Washington Examiner:\u201cA provision in a major medical research package that would have weakened the Sunshine Act, which discloses payments to doctors and healthcare companies, has been dropped.\u201cSen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Tuesday that the provision he objected to was removed from a final version of the 21st Century Cures Act announced on Saturday. Grassley had objected to a quick passage of the bipartisan package unless the provision was dropped.\u201d-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-meets-attorney-general-nominee-sessions", "Grassley Meets with Attorney General Nominee Sessions", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley made the following statement after meeting with Attorney General nominee Jeff Sessions.\u00a0 The meeting focused on a number of issues important to Grassley, such as congressional oversight, the False Claims Act, and criminal justice reform.\u00a0 Grassley has indicated that Sessions is currently completing the committee questionnaire and once that is returned, Grassley will announce a hearing date.\u00a0 As he noted prior to the meeting, Grassley said that he intends to hold the hearing before the President-elect is sworn in.\u00a0 Note that it is customary to hold a hearing for the Attorney General prior to the Inauguration as was the case with both Attorney General Eric Holder and Attorney General John Ashcroft.\u201cI was glad to have Senator Sessions in my office today.\u00a0 Members of the Judiciary Committee know him to be an honorable man, and a person of integrity. \u00a0He knows the Justice Department well, and cares deeply about the even-handed application of the law.\u201cThe process for Attorney General Holder\u2019s hearing was fair, and a good model to follow.\u00a0 Every nominee to be Attorney General has a long record, and Senator Sessions\u2019 record of public service is just that, public. \u00a0Unlike most recent nominees for Attorney General, members of the committee are extremely well acquainted with Senator Sessions, after having served with him for up to twenty years.\u201cDemocratic members of the committee have pledged a fair process. Based on those commitments, I trust the other side will resist what some liberal interest groups are clearly hoping for \u2013 an attack on his character. The confirmation process of John Ashcroft to be Attorney General turned into a reckless campaign that snowballed into an avalanche of innuendo, rumor and spin. That will not happen here.\u201cThe hearings for the four most recent Attorneys General lasted one to two days each. And at each of those hearings, three to nine outside witnesses testified. Nine witnesses testified at the hearing for Attorney General Lynch, seven witnesses testified at the hearings for Attorneys General Holder and Mukasey, and three witnesses testified at the hearing for Attorney General Gonzales.\u201cSenator Sessions will receive the fair and thorough vetting process he deserves, as have the last four nominees to be Attorney General.\u201d-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-removal-sunshine-act-weakening-provisions-house-bill", "Grassley Welcomes Removal of Sunshine Act Weakening Provisions from House Bill", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley expressed concern on Monday that the proposed 21st Century CURES Act from the House of Representatives weakens drug and device company reporting requirements under the Physician Payments Sunshine Act. \u00a0Grassley co-authored the bipartisan sunshine provisions, enacted in 2010. \u00a0Today, the House of Representatives CURES Act sponsors released a revised bill that removes the provision to weaken the reporting requirements for Continuing Medical Education, medical journal reprints and textbooks. \u00a0Grassley made the following comment.\u201cThis is good news for transparency and the public. \u00a0The Sunshine Act works as is. \u00a0Billions of dollars in drug and device company payments to doctors have been disclosed for public benefit. \u00a0With drug prices through the roof, the way drug and device makers spend money is of more public interest than ever. \u00a0Given this change, I no longer plan to object to the CURES Act.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/judiciary-committee-report-us-marshals-service-needs-greater-oversight-address", "Judiciary Committee Report: U.S. Marshals Service Needs Greater Oversight to address Misconduct and Whistleblower Protections", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley today released the findings of an extensive investigation into allegations of misconduct at the U.S. Marshals Service, including misuse of funds, quid pro quos and mistreatment of whistleblowers. \u00a0The majority staff report recommends that the Justice Department improves oversight of the Marshals Service\u2019s hiring practices, and calls on the Marshals Service to adopt a stronger merit-based culture.\u201cThe Judiciary Committee majority staff\u2019s findings highlight some of the concerns raised by several dozen whistleblowers over the past couple years \u2013 things like undue favoritism, using official funds as an office piggy bank; and retaliation against those who try to fix these problems. These issues need to be addressed to restore the integrity and morale in an important government agency that we depend on for public safety. Throughout the Committee\u2019s inquiry, several high-level officials have retired, clearing the way for new blood. It\u2019s going to take greater oversight from the Justice Department and a renewed commitment by the Marshals Service to turn things around. \u00a0The Marshals Service must take the necessary steps to create a positive work environment that rewards success and good behavior in order to continue providing Americans with quality service now and in the future,\u201d Grassley said.Since Grassley began an inquiry into several whistleblower claims of misconduct in early 2015, more than 85 current and former Marshals Service employees have come forward to expose potential misconduct. \u00a0Throughout the course of the inquiry, the committee has requested information concerning:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0An alleged exchange of favors in which a deputy assistant director agreed to hire a friend of the director in return for a promotion;  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The alleged improper hiring and promotion of spouses and personal partners;  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Misuse of the Assets Forfeiture Fund to purchase expensive and lavish office furnishings;  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Misuse of personnel and resources to prepare job applications for senior executive positions; and  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inaccurate and misleading responses to the Committee\u2019s inquiries.The Committee has received sufficient information from the department to address some of these allegations, but the investigation of remaining allegations continues.The report concludes that the Justice Department should improve its oversight of the Marshals Service, particularly with regard to its hiring practices and treatment of whistleblowers. \u00a0The report also recommends that the Marshals Service engage with its employees to promote a culture that rewards employees based on their performance rather than their relationships with leadership. \u00a0Finally, the report underscores the need for the Marshals Service to halt whistleblower reprisal, which can have a chilling effect on employees who seek to improve the agency\u2019s conduct and effectiveness for the people it serves.The full staff report is available HERE.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/red-cross-add-slightly-investigations-unit-grassley-plans-reintroduce-reform", "Red Cross to Add Slightly to Investigations Unit, Grassley Plans to Reintroduce Reform Legislation", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, in July introduced legislation to give the congressional watchdog arm complete access to American Red Cross records for oversight purposes and improve the Red Cross\u2019 internal investigative function. \u00a0The American Red Cross Transparency Act followed the results of a Grassley inquiry into the Red Cross\u2019 response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake. \u00a0The inquiry found that the Red Cross spent approximately one-fourth of the $487.6 million raised for the relief effort on program management, fund-raising and other expenses; that it tried to quash a Government Accountability Office review of its practices, successfully limiting the scope of the review; and has a poorly staffed ethics and investigations unit. \u00a0This week, the organization notified Grassley that it plans to increase its Office of Investigations, Compliance and Ethics (ICE) staff to five full-time employees from three. \u00a0 Grassley made the following comment on these developments.\u201cIt\u2019s good news to have more staff in the investigations unit, even if it\u2019s a small increase. \u00a0My inquiry found that the investigations unit was poorly staffed and so mostly incapable of doing the kind of work donors might expect. When there are concerns about program results or spending, an investigations unit is the kind of entity that should be in place to review those concerns. \u00a0I\u2019m disappointed that the Red Cross will continue to keep the investigations unit under management control instead of requiring it to report to the board of governors. \u00a0More independence would give the unit more teeth and so increase its effectiveness. \u00a0Also, making sure the Red Cross fully cooperates with the Government Accountability Office is still an important goal. \u00a0I intend to re-introduce my legislation in the next Congress. \u00a0The Red Cross is critical to disaster responses. \u00a0The American people rely on it, and Congress has a responsibility to help make sure it functions well.\u201dThe Red Cross is congressionally chartered and considered a federal instrumentality, unique among tax-exempt organizations. \u00a0The federal taxpayers pay for some of the Red Cross\u2019 work directly through federal tax dollars for disaster responses and indirectly through the tax dollars foregone to the Red Cross through its tax exemption and through tax deductions donors take for charitable donations to the organization. \u00a0The Judiciary Committee has jurisdiction over federal charters.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-grassley%E2%80%99s-bill-assist-families-fallen-officers", "Senate Passes Grassleys Bill to Assist Families of Fallen Officers", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Senate today unanimously passed legislation authored by Senators Chuck Grassley and Kirsten Gillibrand to reduce the backlog of families awaiting approval of survivor benefits of public safety officers killed in the line of duty. \u00a0The Senate\u2019s action on the Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits Improvement Act comes one month after two central Iowa police officers were ambushed and killed while on patrol. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.\u201cOur nation\u2019s public safety officers bravely run toward danger each day to protect our communities. \u00a0And sadly, as we\u2019ve seen recently in my home state of Iowa, and in communities across the country, these officers too often make the ultimate sacrifice for our safety. \u00a0As a society, we\u2019ve promised to support the loved ones of fallen officers, so it\u2019s unacceptable that these families are often forced to wait, in some cases, for years, for the Justice Department to process their survivor benefits applications. \u00a0Many families, like the Langenbaus of Northwood, Iowa, only see results on their applications after public scrutiny of the Justice Department\u2019s delays. \u00a0So this bill shines a bright public light on the Justice Department\u2019s survivor benefits backlog to get some answers for these families. \u00a0My colleagues in the House of Representatives should pass this bill as soon as possible to bring needed help to the loved ones of our fallen officers,\u201d Grassley said.Congress established the Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits program in 1976 to provide death benefits to survivors of officers who die in the line of duty. \u00a0Over the years, the law has been amended to provide disability and education benefits, and to expand the pool of officers who are eligible for these benefits. \u00a0While the Justice Department has a goal of processing survivor claims within one year of the time they are filed, many families must wait long periods of time for their applications to be approved. \u00a0According to recent data, the Justice Department is failing to meet its 1-year deadline in 58 percent of the 738 pending death benefit cases. Moreover, 175 death and disability claims filed on behalf of officers who lost their lives as a result of the September 11, 2001, response efforts remain unresolved. \u00a0\u00a0To address the backlog, the Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits Improvement Act expands public oversight of the Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits program by permanently increasing the level of transparency regarding wait times for benefits applications. \u00a0Specifically, the bill:  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0requires the Justice Department to post on its website, weekly status updates for all pending claims;  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0requires the Justice Department to report to Congress other aggregate statistics regarding these claims, twice a year;  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0allows the Justice Department to rely on other federal regulatory standards; and  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0allows for the Justice Department to give substantial weight to findings of fact of state, local, and other federal agencies. \u00a0The bill also requires the Justice Department to demonstrate clear and convincing evidence that an officer was negligent or engaged in misconduct at the time of his or her death or injury before denying a claim on those grounds. \u00a0Under the bill, the Justice Department must also utilize all of its investigative authorities before rejecting claims based on a lack of information, and ensure remedies for claimants who age out of eligibility for education benefits because of the department\u2019s own delays in processing their claims. \u00a0The bill\u2019s provisions would apply to all claims that are pending at the time of the bill\u2019s enactment, in addition to all claims filed after that date.In April, Grassley convened a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to shed light on the length of time the Justice Department takes to consider death benefit claims from the families of fallen public safety officers. \u00a0At the hearing, Jay Langenbau of Northwood, Iowa, testified that his family had yet to receive benefits following the death of his wife, Shelly, in 2013. \u00a0Two days following Langenbau\u2019s public testimony, the Justice Department finally approved his benefits application.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-obama-signs-young-s-veterans-crisis-line-improvements-bill-law", "President Obama Signs Youngs Veterans Crisis Line Improvements Bill into Law", "2016-11-28", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "President Obama Signs Young\u2019s Veterans Crisis Line Improvements Bill\u00a0into Law\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - The president signed into law today the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act (H.R. 5392), legislation introduced by Iowa Congressman David Young to provide necessary responsiveness and performance improvements to the Veterans Crisis Line, which is the hotline for veterans seeking suicide prevention and crisis resources help from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) responders.\n\u201cIn a victory for our veterans,\u00a0service members, and their families in Iowa and across the country, the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act has been signed into law,\u201d Congressman Young said. \u201cI appreciate my colleagues in the House and Senate and the president for working with me to get this widely supported,\u00a0critical mental health legislation for our veterans and service members across the finish line. Those who have sacrificed in defense of our freedoms\u00a0deserve the best quality mental health care possible, and I remain committed to ensuring we uphold the promises made them.\"\nYoung's Legislation Directs the VA Secretary to:\n Create a quality assurance process outlining performance indicators and objectives to address responsiveness and performance of the Veterans Crisis Line and backup call centers, and a timeline noting when objectives will be reached.\n\tDevelop a plan to ensure any communication to the Veterans Crisis Line or backup call center is answered in a timely manner by a person in accordance with the guidance established by the American Association of Suicidology.\n\tSubmit the plan to the Committees on Veterans\u2019 Affairs of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate within 180 days of the legislation\u2019s enactment.\n More about the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act:\n November 17, 2016 - Speaker Paul Ryan signed the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act and highlighted the importance of the legislation during his weekly briefing.\n\tNovember 16, 2016 - Congressman Young\u2019s No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act was approved unanimously by the U.S. Senate.\n\tSeptember 26, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young\u2019s No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act was approved by the full U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 357-0.\n\tSeptember 21, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young\u2019s No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act was approved in a markup by the full U.S. House Veterans Affairs Committee.\n\tSeptember 14, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young urges his colleagues to support the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\tSeptember 8, 2016\u00a0- South Dakota Senator John Thune introduces companion legislation to Congressman Young\u2019s No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act.\n\tSeptember 1, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young sends a letter to VA Secretary McDonald highlighting continued problems with the Veterans Crisis Line.\n\tJune 28, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young reacts to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report finding approximately 30 percent of text messages sent as tests to the Veterans Crisis Line went unanswered.\n\tJune 23, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young testifies before the U.S. House Veterans Affairs Committee on the importance of the legislation.\n\tJune 7, 2016\u00a0- Congressman Young introduces the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act in response to concerns voiced by Iowa veterans about unanswered calls, emails or other communications, and failed attempts to receive help from the Veterans Crisis Line.\n # # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-opposes-weakening-physician-payments-sunshine-act-reporting-provisions", "Grassley Opposes Weakening of Physician Payments Sunshine Act Reporting Provisions", "2016-11-28", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley co-authored the Physician Payments Sunshine Act creating the Open Payments database for drug and device company payments to doctors. \u00a0Grassley worked on the measure after his oversight and news stories explored payments from the industry to doctors. \u00a0The Sunshine Act is successful. \u00a0In program year 2015, health care industry manufacturers reported $7.52 billion in payments and ownership and investment interests to physicians and teaching hospitals. This amount consists of 11.90 million total records attributable to 618,931 physicians and 1,116 teaching hospitals. \u00a0In October 2015, Grassley authored and introduced new bipartisan legislation to apply the disclosure of drug company and medical device maker payments to nurse practitioners and physician assistants. \u00a0The proposed 21st Century CURES Act from the House of Representatives includes language that would remove the reporting requirement for Continuing Medical Education and medical journal reprints and textbooks. \u00a0It also would add an additional exemption for \u00a0physicians who receive indirect payments for speaking fees. \u00a0A New York Times magazine article, \u201cDr. Drug Rep,\u201d Nov. 25, 2007, explores the potential effects of such payments.\u00a0  \u00a0  Grassley made the following comment on the House bill striking part of the Sunshine Act.\u201cI plan to object to unanimous consent to take up the House bill in the Senate unless this provision is removed. \u00a0The Sunshine Act brings transparency to a big part of the health care system for public benefit. \u00a0Transparency brings accountability wherever it\u2019s applied. \u00a0With taxpayers and patients paying billions of dollars for prescription drugs and medical devices, and prices exploding, disclosure of company payments to doctors makes more sense than ever. Watering down sunshine provisions is counter-productive and goes against the trend in health care to have more transparency, not less. \u00a0A lot of earlier payments to doctors were under the umbrella of Continuing Medical Education. \u00a0We shouldn\u2019t create a loophole that would let drug and medical device companies mask their payments to doctors under a payment category that\u2019s too broad and could gut the spirit and the letter of the Sunshine Act.\u201d\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://loebsack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394966", "Loebsack Statement on EPAs 2017 RFS Obligations", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Democrat", "House", "IA", "Dave Loebsack", "L000565", "loebsack.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its final Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) obligations for 2017. Loebsack, who serves as the co-chair of the House Biofuels Caucus, has led the fight for a strong RFS and highlighted its importance to Iowa.\u201cToday\u2019s announcement is good news for Iowa\u2019s farmers, rural communities and consumers. I am pleased the EPA followed the mandate set for them by Congress to ensure ethanol and biofuels are a source of fuel for the future, while decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. But our work is not done. I will continue to push the EPA to increase the level of bio-diesel and advanced biofuels to what was mandated. I will also continue to fight to create greater access to biofuels at local gas stations across the country.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/young-releases-statement-epa-s-2017-2018-rfs-volume-requirements", "Young Releases Statement on EPAs 2017, 2018 RFS Volume Requirements", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Young Releases Statement on EPA\u2019s 2017, 2018 RFS Volume Requirements\u00a0\nWASHINGTON, D.C. -\u00a0Iowa Congressman David Young released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced their finalized rule providing for Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) requirements for 2017 and 2018 under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Congressman Young has repeatedly pressed the EPA to ensure RVO requirements meet congressionally mandated levels.\nThe EPA announced final RVO requirements \u201cmeet or exceed volume targets specified by Congress for total renewable fuel, biomass-based diesel, and advanced biofuel.\u201d All requirements have increased from 2016.\u00a0\n\u201cThe EPA\u2019s announcement of increased RVO requirements is a good sign for farmers, producers, and consumers in Iowa and across the country,\u201d Congressman Young said. \u201cCongress set these requirements to ensure a long term RFS which provides for investment and economic development, so folks nationwide have certainty to conduct their business and consumers are not burdened by limited choice. I am pleased the EPA issued the conventional renewable fuels requirement at a level mandated by Congress, and I will continue working to ensure RVO requirements, specifically the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels requirements, are strengthened under the RFS, for our communities in Iowa and across rural America.\u201d\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/weeklyreport/keep-your-financial-personal-information-secure-holiday-season", "Keep your Financial, Personal Information Secure this Holiday Season", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Keep your Financial, Personal Information Secure this Holiday Season\nAs cofounder of the Bipartisan Congressional Task Force to Combat Identity Theft and Fraud, folks often ask me about the many different ways scammers and fraudsters prey on folks in our Iowa communities. I tell them these criminals use increasingly complex and ever evolving tactics, attempting to steal the personal and financial information of unsuspecting Americans all over the country.\u00a0\nThe best way to stay protected from these threats is to stay informed, and as the holiday season is upon us, this idea especially rings true. Reports of scammers and fraudsters using fake retail apps and fake websites to target folks shopping for gifts and more is an important reminder anyone can be a target. Smart shopping can keep you from falling victim to these unfortunate crimes.\nWhen shopping for your loved ones on the internet, always pay close attention to the URL, or the web address, of the website you\u2019re visiting. Be especially mindful of suspicious or misleading domain names. While\u00a0Younkers-store.3a5.com\u00a0may appear to direct you to Younkers\u2019 official website, their real website of the department store is Younkers.com. Long and hyphenated names with numbers in them are typically misleading and home to illegitimate online vendors.\u00a0\u00a0\nWhat\u2019s more, it\u2019s important to take extra precautions when seeking a great deal from an online outlet or megastore, especially if the name is unfamiliar. Mega-bags-for-less.biz may seem like a prime place to score an item marked well below retail value, but a better practice is to stick with trusted websites of stores or e-commerce companies you recognize. Pay attention to shoddy website designs, unclear refund policies, nonexistent or unclear company contact information, and anything that gives you pause. A safe assumption: If a deal is too good to be true, it probably is.\nIf you\u2019re hoping to shop using apps on your smart phone, make sure you\u2019re choosing a retailer\u2019s legitimate app, not one of the numerous counterfeit ones appearing in recent months and weeks. Attempting to make a purchase with a fake app can share your personal or financial information with bad actors and leave you picking up the pieces. If you choose to do business through an app, double check the app is real, by separately visiting the retailer\u2019s official website to verify its existence, or reading through the app store for questionable reviews and comments. Pay close attention to incorrect names or misspellings, because that is a warning sign you should do your business elsewhere.\nIf you believe you\u2019re perusing a fake website or app, or if you believe you are a victim of fraud, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on their website (https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#&panel1-6) without delay. If you\u2019ve come across a fake app on your smart phone, you can report it through the app store. If necessary, contact your bank to report fraudulent charges and closely monitor your accounts. Remember, my staff and I are always ready and willing to help, and point you in the direction of services and resources you may need.\u00a0\nAs you go forth this holiday season, shop smartly and safely, and keep your pocketbooks and personal information out of the hands of criminals hoping to capitalize on unsuspecting victims. Sidestep the headache and heartbreak of financial fraud and identity theft from holiday shopping, and instead enjoy your time making holiday memories with family and friends.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/qa-supporting-small-business", "Q&A: Supporting Small Business", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With U.S. Senator Chuck GrassleyQ:\u00a0 Why do you make it a priority to support small business?A:\u00a0 Small business is the backbone of America\u2019s economic eco-system, serving as primary job creators and civic boosters in local communities across the country. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses have created more than two-thirds of all net new jobs since the 1970s. They also account for more than half of all U.S. sales. What\u2019s more, franchised small businesses account for 40 percent of all retail sales where eight million workers also earn their wages. Iowa small businesses employ 633,270 workers. Make no mistake. Small businesses provide more than paychecks and employment security. Small business owners are our friends, neighbors and civic leaders who pay it forward in their neighborhoods and local communities by supporting youth sports, food pantries, school auctions and blood drives in their hometowns. And the relationship goes both ways. Consider the groundswell of support this Fall that small businesses in Cedar Rapids and other nearby towns received from residents and volunteers to mitigate flood damage and protect local shops and livelihoods. When small businesses are thriving, they are able to hire more workers, grow wages and expand opportunity and prosperity for their workforce. I see it first hand during my 99 county meetings across Iowa. Main Street store fronts not only provide the convenience to buy merchandise locally, they offer personalized, neighborly services, from independently-owned restaurants and coffee shops to hardware stores, home d\u00e9cor, gifts and antique retailers. Small businesses grow hometown pride, foster vitality and contribute to a strong sense of community. The bottom line is that brick and mortar businesses rely on foot traffic and customer loyalty to own and operate their business and expand their bottom line.Q: What is Small Business Saturday?A:\u00a0 A coalition of small business advocates has worked to capture greater market share during the all-important holiday shopping season by promoting Small Business Saturday. It\u2019s the Saturday following Thanksgiving Day. The idea behind the campaign is to encourage shoppers to visit locally-owned merchants at the start of the holiday shopping season and to keep them in mind throughout the year. By \u201cshopping small\u201d Iowans can make a big difference for local shopkeepers, from designers, to jewelers, bakers, clothiers, artists, brewers, and others who serve up delicious wares and unique products that are found right under our noses in our local communities. Organizers say the six-year campaign has reached more than 95 million Americans who have spent more than $16 billion on Small Business Saturday. Iowans gathering around the Thanksgiving table with family and friends can exchange recipes as well as favorite Main Street store fronts, from Iowa\u2019s college towns to county seats. If we want these community treasures to stay open for business, shopping small can help keep local charm and commerce in our neighborhoods and town squares.  \u00a0  Q: \u00a0At the federal level, what policies are you working on to help small businesses grow?A:\u00a0 Ask any small business owner about what it takes to go from the drawing board to earning their first dollar, and it\u2019s likely you\u2019ll get an earful about licensing, lending and legal hoops they had to navigate to even open up for business. Navigating regulatory burdens and red tape, from health care to immigration, make it harder for businesses to get started in the first place. The complexity of the tax code causes headaches for small businesses year in and year out, stifling innovation, competition and productivity. That\u2019s why I work to reduce the tax burden and reform misguided rules and regulations that harm the ability of small businesses to get ahead and stay ahead. For example, Obamacare has burdened individual policy holders and small business owners alike. In the new Congress, we will work to make health care more affordable and accessible for everybody. In addition, lawmakers have joined my bipartisan request asking the President-elect to rescind the Waters of the U.S., an example of unprecedented federal overreach that gives the EPA free rein over 97 percent of the land in Iowa putting farmers, property owners and many small business owners in the eye of federal bureaucrats for no reason. Addressing abusive and frivolous lawsuits, policing enforcement of anti-competitive business practices and restoring the ability of local community banks and lenders to jump-start economic activity on Main Street are additional priorities I will carry into the new session of the 115th Congress. During this season of Thanksgiving, let\u2019s be grateful for the freedoms we enjoy every day in America, from one sun rise to the next. We cannot afford to take individual liberty and economic freedoms, such as the ability to open a business and own private property, for granted. We are blessed to live in a free society in which a free-market system allows ideas, products and services to compete for market share. As Americans, we benefit from free enterprise that allows consumers to shop for the best quality at the best value. So let\u2019s give thanks for America\u2019s small businesses. Whenever you have the opportunity to \"shop small\" and \"dine small,\" know that you\u2019re making a big difference for the local economy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/cms-justice-dept-mylan-stonewall-only-delays-accountability-americans-deserve", "CMS, Justice Dept., Mylan Stonewall Only Delays Accountability Americans Deserve", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Judiciary Committee Postpones EpiPen Hearing; Considers Tools to Compel Participation\u00a0WASHINGTON \u2013 The Senate Judiciary Committee is postponing a hearing on the potential settlement agreement between EpiPen maker Mylan and the Obama Administration as it considers other avenues to ensure government and company witnesses participate. \u00a0Representatives from the Justice Department, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Mylan have refused to attend the hearing to examine a reported settlement agreement as well as Mylan\u2019s classification procedures and agencies\u2019 authorities to prevent and respond to drug companies that misrepresent their products to the government.\u201cI\u2019m disappointed in the decisions by Mylan, CMS and the Justice Department to delay accountability that American patients and taxpayers deserve. But their decision to duck appropriate scrutiny will not stop this committee\u2019s pursuit for answers. Congress has a constitutional duty to conduct oversight and hearings are an important part of that process. Unfortunately, because of the unconventional refusal by these three entities to attend, we must now consider compelling their participation.\u00a0\u201cIt appears that Mylan\u2019s misclassification of the EpiPen has forced taxpayers and states to foot an unnecessarily higher bill throughout the duration of the Obama Administration, despite notifications to CMS. \u00a0Both Mylan and the Obama Administration need to answer to these issues. Americans deserve accountability, especially on decisions that impact their health and economic wellbeing. \u00a0This committee will not stop until our questions are answered and any appropriate actions are taken,\u201d Grassley said.The Justice Department, CMS and Mylan cited pending matters and investigations as their reasoning for not attending the hearing. However, Mylan announced a settlement with the Justice Department on Oct. 7, mentioning specific terms in the alleged settlement and drawing the issue into the public eye. \u00a0The Justice Department has said there is no \u201cexecuted settlement.\u201d \u00a0The hearing would also focus on agency authorities to prevent and address drug misclassifications and whether such misclassifications violate the False Claims Act. \u00a0These matters could be discussed without addressing specifics of any pending matter.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/epa-increases-2017-renewable-fuel-standard-ethanol-falls-short-biodiesel", "EPA Increases 2017 Renewable Fuel Standard for Ethanol, Falls Short for Biodiesel", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its final Renewable Fuel Standard renewable volume obligations for 2017 and biomass-based diesel volume for 2018. In a significant achievement, the EPA reached the 15 billion gallon level required by statute for conventional biofuels, a victory for corn ethanol producers in Iowa. For biodiesel, the agency continues to set levels below the potential of the biodiesel and renewable diesel industries. Senator Grassley made the following comment.\u201cThis announcement is good news for Iowa, and in particular corn ethanol producers. While more work needs to be done to increase levels for biodiesel, this is the first time that the EPA has reached the statutory level for traditional corn ethanol. This achievement marks significant progress for renewable energy and is a tribute to Iowa's clean energy leadership.\u201dGrassley fought efforts by the EPA, Big Oil and Big Food to reduce the RFS. Earlier this year, Grassley led a bipartisan coalition of 39 senators to urge the EPA to abide by the congressionally-passed Renewable Fuel Standard for traditional ethanol. Grassley also led a bipartisan coalition of 40 senators urging the EPA to increase biodiesel levels.More information from the EPA about this announcement can be found here.\u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-thanksgiving-day-statement-audio", "Grassley Thanksgiving Day Statement (Audio)", "2016-11-23", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Sen. Chuck Grassley made the following statement for Thanksgiving Day, 2016. Audio of the statement can be found here.\u201cAs we gather with friends, family and loved ones on Thanksgiving Day, we give thanks to the brave men and women who keep our country and our communities safe, both at home and abroad, many who cannot be with their families today. Their sacrifices have afforded us the blessings of freedom, safety and security.\u201cAnd, on a day of plenty, it can be easy to take for granted the food we enjoy, but let\u2019s not forget the hardworking farmers in Iowa and across the country who help fill our pantries and tables with affordable, healthy and abundant food today and every day.\u201cOur country has been bestowed with immeasurable blessings, and I\u2019m thankful for the opportunity to serve Iowans in the United States Senate.\u201d-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-goodlatte-seek-immigration-criminal-history-individual-charged-roadside", "Grassley, Goodlatte Seek Immigration & Criminal History of Individual Charged in Roadside Rape", "2016-11-22", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate and House Judiciary Committee Chairmen Chuck Grassley and Bob Goodlatte are requesting the immigration and criminal histories of a man charged in the brutal roadside rape near Fredericksburg, Va., in October.Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian was arrested November 17 and charged with rape and aggravated sexual battery after he allegedly struck the vehicle of a woman with his car, dragged the driver into a ditch and raped her for two hours. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reportedly issued an immigration detainer for Sibrian, which seeks cooperation with local authorities to prevent Sibrian from being released back into the public.In a letter today to Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, Grassley and Goodlatte are requesting Sibrian\u2019s full immigration and criminal background, including when and how he entered the United States, whether he has been previously deported and whether he applied for or received any immigration benefits. \u00a0The chairmen are also asking for details on Sibrian\u2019s previous encounters with law enforcement and immigration authorities, arrest history and any gang affiliations. \u00a0Finally, the chairmen are asking whether Sibrian would have been considered an enforcement priority under the Obama Administration\u2019s Priority Enforcement Program prior to the rape charges, what steps federal officials will take if local law enforcement refuses to honor the federal detainer, and whether federal officials have contacted the victims of the alleged crimes committed by Sibrian.The Chairmen\u2019s letter to Johnson follows:November 22, 2016The Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary\u00a0  Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528Dear Secretary Johnson:We write to request case information on Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian, reportedly an alien illegally present in the United States, who allegedly brutally raped a woman near Fredericksburg, Virginia on October 31. \u00a0According to reports, Sibrian allegedly dragged a woman from her car into a ditch and raped her for two hours after striking her car with his vehicle. \u00a0Sibrian was arrested on November 17 in Sanford, North Carolina and charged with rape and aggravated sexual battery. \u00a0His bond was set at $100,000. \u00a0News sources also report that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued an immigration detainer for Sibrian.To better understand Sibrian\u2019s immigration and criminal history, please provide both Committees on the Judiciary with the following information as soon as possible, but not later than December 5, 2016: \u00a01.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The alien registration number for Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian, his complete alien file (A-file), including any temporary files or working files, and all documents and items contained in them that were generated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or in its possession about him, whether currently in written or electronic form, including, but not limited to, the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Executive Summary, criminal history and immigration summaries, detainers or requests for notification, I-213(s), and Notice(s) to Appear or other charging documents created to seek his removal from the United States.2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How and when did Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian enter the United States?\u00a03.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Had Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian ever been removed previously? \u00a0If so, when?4.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0If a law enforcement agency declines to honor a detainer or notify ICE regarding Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian, what action will DHS take to ensure that he is not released from custody and allowed to reoffend?5.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Please identify each and every date on which Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian was arrested by a law enforcement agency in the United States, including criminal and civil arrests, the nature of the charges, the jurisdictions where the arrests occurred, the dispositions of the charges, the dates on which he was released from the custody of the law enforcement agencies, and the reasons for the release.6.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Did Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian ever apply for any immigration benefit? \u00a0If so, was any application approved? \u00a0Please provide copies of any applications that Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian may have submitted, whether or not adjudicated.7.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Was Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian a member of, or associated with any criminal gang? \u00a0Please explain.8.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0If Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian had been encountered by DHS enforcement officials prior to his recent arrest for rape, would he have met the requirements to be considered a priority for removal under the Administration\u2019s Priority Enforcement Program? \u00a0If so, please provide the exact reason for such consideration. \u00a0If not, why not?9.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Has any victim(s) associated with the alleged crime(s) committed by Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian been contacted by officials at ICE? \u00a0Please provide details.As you know, the Privacy Act authorizes disclosure of information to Committees of Congress. Upon receipt of this letter, if you cannot fully respond to each and every request for documents or information set forth above, please immediately contact the staff members of the respective Committees below and identify the specific item requested to which you cannot fully respond and explain why you cannot respond.Should you have any questions, please contact Kathy Nuebel Kovarik at (202) 224-5225 or Tracy Short at (202) 225-3926. \u00a0Thank you for your cooperation.Sincerely,  \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Charles E. Grassley \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0  Chairman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0  Senate Committee on the Judiciary\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Bob GoodlatteChairmanHouse Committee on the Judiciary-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/refugees-barred-entry-australia", "Obama Admin Preps Unilateral Approval of Refugees Barred from Entry in Australia", "2016-11-22", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressional Judiciary Committee leaders are expressing frustration and concern with an Obama Administration plan to admit into the United States an unknown number of refugees who Australia has refused to admit. \u00a0The Administration never disclosed to Congress that it was negotiating a deal with Australia, even though it was apparently in the works when Administration officials provided a\u00a0legally-required consultation\u00a0to Congress on refugees in September.Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte today expressed concern that the Obama Administration\u2019s secret negotiations with Australia left Americans in the dark about the full scope of its resettlement plans. \u00a0In a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry and Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, the chairmen also said the plan raises other questions, including how many refugees will be resettled in the United States and why Australia refused to resettle them. \u00a0According to administration officials, the refugees are largely from Iran, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Somalia, Iraq and Sudan. \u00a0The State Department has designated Iran and Sudan as state sponsors of terrorism.The chairmen are requesting a copy of the agreement and a classified briefing to gain a better understanding of the unilateral international refugee agreement that the Administration negotiated without Congressional consultation.Full text of the\u00a0Grassley-Goodlatte letter\u00a0to Kerry and Johnson follows:November 22, 2016VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONThe Honorable Jeh Johnson  Secretary \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0  Department of Homeland Security  Washington, D.C. 20528The Honorable John Kerry  Secretary  Department of State  Washington, D.C. 20520Dear Secretaries Johnson and Kerry:On November 11, a press report surfaced disclosing that the United States Government was finalizing a deal with Australia in which the United States would take refugees located on certain Pacific island nations that Australia has refused to admit. \u00a0Congress learned, through the media, that 1,800 migrants interdicted before reaching Australia\u2019s shores, could be transferred from detention facilities in Papua New Guinea and Nauru to U.S. soil. \u00a0Upon requesting confirmation of the news report, our staffs were briefed by officials from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the State Department\u2019s Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration. \u00a0Officials from your departments confirmed that an agreement between the U.S. and Australia has been signed by a representative of the State Department, that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) would refer individuals for resettlement to the United States, and that interviews and operations would begin almost immediately. \u00a0Your employees reported that 2,465 individuals currently reside in detention facilities in Papa New Guinea and Nauru. \u00a0When asked how many of the 2,465 individuals in the detention facilities the U.S. agreed to consider for resettlement in the U.S., the briefers said that number was classified. \u00a0However, your employees confirmed that the individuals being detained and who will be eligible to seek resettlement are largely from the following countries: \u00a0  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Iran  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Stateless  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Sri Lanka  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Pakistan  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Afghanistan  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Somalia  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Iraq  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0SudanThis situation is concerning for many reasons. \u00a0First, your departments negotiated an international agreement regarding refugees without consulting or notifying Congress. \u00a0Such information was not disclosed to Congress during the annual refugee consultation that occurred on September 13, 2016, even though your staff confirmed that the agreement had, at the time, been negotiated \u201cfor months.\u201d Second, the agreement and the number of refugees to be resettled has been deemed by your departments as classified, thus the American people are left in the dark as to the rationale for this agreement. \u00a0Third, the individuals who will be resettled are coming from countries of national security concern. \u00a0In fact, two of the countries are officially designated by the State Department to be State Sponsors of Terrorism. \u00a0Finally, it begs the question why Australia and other countries refuse to admit these individuals, what other countries are doing to help alleviate the situation, what kind of precedent this sets for future refugees interdicted at sea by Australian forces and prevented from entering Australia, and how a similar situation will be prevented in the future. \u00a0 \u00a0We appreciate the offer to provide a classified briefing on the matter, but we also firmly believe the American people should be fully aware of the specific details of this agreement and why it was done in secret. \u00a0We ask that you immediately make the agreement available to members of the House of Representatives and the Senate, and we ask for your cooperation to better understanding every aspect of this resettlement agreement.Sincerely,\u00a0Charles E. Grassley \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0  Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0  U.S. Senate\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0Bob GoodlatteChairman, Committee on the JudiciaryU.S. House of Representatives-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/members-iowa-delegation-urge-president-elect-scrap-wotus-rule", "Members of Iowa Delegation Urge President-Elect to Scrap WOTUS Rule", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Members of Iowa Delegation Urge President-Elect to Scrap WOTUS Rule  \u201cLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway.\u201d\n\t\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Iowa's U.S. Senators Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley and Representatives Rod Blum (R-01), David Young (R-03) and Steve King (R-04) sent President-elect Donald J. Trump a letter urging him to scrap the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule in the first few days of his presidency.\n\t\t\t\tIn the letter, members of the Iowa delegation wrote, \u201cThis misguided WOTUS rule is an economic assault on small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture, and threatens the very livelihood of our fellow Iowans. These industries are the backbone of this country, especially in rural America. The election results signaled that Americans are ready for the last eight years of EPA\u2019s power grabbing mentality to come to an end.\u201d\n\t\t\t\tThey added, \u201cLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway.\u201d\n\t\t\t\tThe members urged strong action, concluding, \u201c\u2026 we strongly encourage you to use all the tools at your disposal to free the American people from this blatant overreach. We also respectfully urge you to direct your EPA to craft a common-sense rule that clarifies the scope of the CWA and does so by taking into consideration the input of all stakeholders.\u201d\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tClick here or see below to view the full letter to President-elect Donald J. Trump.\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tNovember 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tThe Honorable Donald Trump\n\t\t\t\tThe President-elect\n\t\t\t\tTrump Tower\n\t\t\t\t725 5th Ave\n\t\t\t\tNew York, NY 10022\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tDear Mr. Trump:\n\t\t\t\tWe write to you today to express our strong concern about the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) Waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS), and we respectfully urge you to do everything within your power as chief executive to stop this harmful rule in the first days of your presidency.\n\t\t\t\tThis misguided WOTUS rule is an economic assault on small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture, and threatens the very livelihood of our fellow Iowans. These industries are the backbone of this country, especially in rural America. The election results signaled that Americans are ready for the last eight years of EPA\u2019s power grabbing mentality to come to an end.\n\t\t\t\tAs you know, the Clean Water Act (CWA) was created to address pollution problems in the nation\u2019s navigable waters and improve water quality through a local-state-federal partnership. While we fully support this goal, the scope of the expanded WOTUS definition far exceeds what was originally intended by Congress when it enacted the CWA. Under the guise of protecting clean water, the current administration\u2019s EPA is not just seeking to expand its jurisdiction over waters not originally covered under the CWA, but also on private land. For example, the WOTUS rule could give EPA extensive power to regulate activities on 97 percent of the land in Iowa. This rule will no doubt leave our nation\u2019s job creators in a wave of legal uncertainty, compliance burdens, and increased costs.\n\t\t\t\tLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway. Thankfully a nationwide stay has been placed on the rule by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, but it could be years until this litigation is settled. Meanwhile the business owners, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners in communities across the country are left with uncertainty, and are concerned that the EPA will continue to take steps to implement the rule through a piecemeal approach.\n\t\t\t\tAs mentioned above, we strongly encourage you to use all the tools at your disposal to free the American people from this blatant overreach. We also respectfully urge you to direct your EPA to craft a common-sense rule that clarifies the scope of the CWA and does so by taking into consideration the input of all stakeholders.\n\t\t\t\tSincerely,\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tJoni K. Ernst\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 Chuck Grassley\n\t\t\t\tUnited States Senator\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 United States Senator\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tDavid Young\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 Rod Blum\n\t\t\t\tUnited States Congressman\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 United States Congressman\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\tSteve King\n\t\t\t\tUnited States Congressman\n\t\t\t\t\u00a0\n\t\t\t\t# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://steveking.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/members-of-iowa-delegation-urge-president-elect-to-scrap-wotus-rule", "Members of Iowa Delegation Urge President-Elect to Scrap WOTUS Rule", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Steve King", "K000362", "steveking.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway.\u201d\u00a0\n\t\u00a0\n\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013\u00a0Today, Iowa's U.S. Senators Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley and Representatives\u00a0Steve King (R-04),\u00a0Rod Blum (R-01) and David Young (R-03) sent President-elect Donald J. Trump a\u00a0letter\u00a0urging him to scrap the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule in the first few days of his presidency.\n\tIn the letter, members of the Iowa delegation wrote,\u00a0\u201cThis misguided WOTUS rule is an economic assault on small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture, and threatens the very livelihood of our fellow Iowans. These industries are the backbone of this country, especially in rural America. The election results signaled that Americans are ready for the last eight years of EPA\u2019s power grabbing mentality to come to an end.\u201d\n\tThey added,\u00a0\u201cLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway.\u201d\n\tThe members urged strong action, concluding,\u00a0\u201c\u2026 we strongly encourage you to use all the tools at your disposal to free the American people from this blatant overreach. We also respectfully urge you to direct your EPA to craft a common-sense rule that clarifies the scope of the CWA and does so by taking into consideration the input of all stakeholders.\u201d\n\tClick\u00a0here\u00a0or see below to view the full letter to President-elect Donald J. Trump.\n\tNovember 21, 2016\n\tThe Honorable Donald Trump\n\tThe President-elect\n\tTrump Tower\n\t725 5th Ave\n\tNew York, NY 10022\n\tWe write to you today to express our strong concern about the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) Waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS), and we respectfully urge you to do everything within your power as chief executive to stop this harmful rule in the first days of your presidency.\n\tThis misguided WOTUS rule is an economic assault on small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture, and threatens the very livelihood of our fellow Iowans. These industries are the backbone of this country, especially in rural America. The election results signaled that Americans are ready for the last eight years of EPA\u2019s power grabbing mentality to come to an end.\n\tAs you know, the Clean Water Act (CWA) was created to address pollution problems in the nation\u2019s navigable waters and improve water quality through a local-state-federal partnership. While we fully support this goal, the scope of the expanded WOTUS definition far exceeds what was originally intended by Congress when it enacted the CWA. Under the guise of protecting clean water, the current administration\u2019s EPA is not just seeking to expand its jurisdiction over waters not originally covered under the CWA, but also on private land. For example, the WOTUS rule could give EPA extensive power to regulate activities on 97 percent of the land in Iowa. This rule will\u00a0 no doubt leave our nation\u2019s job creators in a wave of legal uncertainty, compliance burdens, and increased costs.\n\tLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway. Thankfully a nationwide stay has been placed on the rule by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, but it could be years until this litigation is settled. Meanwhile the business owners, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners in communities across the country are left with uncertainty, and are concerned that the EPA will continue to take steps to implement the rule through a piecemeal approach.\n\tAs mentioned above, we strongly encourage you to use all the tools at your disposal to free the American people from this blatant overreach. We also respectfully urge you to direct your EPA to craft a common-sense rule that clarifies the scope of the CWA and does so by taking into consideration the input of all stakeholders.\n\tSincerely,\n\tJoni K. Ernst\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 Chuck Grassley\n\tUnited States Senator\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 United States Senator\n\tSteve King\n\tUnited States Congressman\n\tDavid Young\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 Rod Blum\n\tUnited States Congressman\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 United States Congressman", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/epipen-maker-declines-testify-oversight-hearing-following-agency-refusal-testify", "EpiPen Maker Declines to Testify at Oversight Hearing Following Agency Refusal to Testify", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Following the poor lead of the Department of Justice and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, EpiPen maker Mylan is declining to testify at a Judiciary Committee hearing scheduled for Nov. 30 on the potential settlement between Mylan and the Justice Department over reportedly hundreds of millions of dollars in overpayments by the taxpayers for EpiPens under Medicaid. \u00a0Sen. Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, made the following comment.\u201cThe Obama Administration is dodging accountability for an expensive problem, and now a company is following its bad example. \u00a0Taxpayers have paid and based on reports, continue to pay hundreds of millions of dollars more for the EpiPen than they have to pay. \u00a0This happened because either the agencies in charge dropped the ball, the company gamed the system, or both. \u00a0Ironically, the company was eager to talk about this problem a few weeks ago in a press release to investors but not before the United States Senate. \u00a0It\u2019s a shame government agencies and the company are ducking accountability under a voluntary process. \u00a0One way or another, I intend to get answers for patients and taxpayers.\u201dMylan\u2019s letter is available here.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-seeks-information-sec-whether-mylan-misled-investors-settlement", "Grassley Seeks Information from SEC on Whether Mylan Misled Investors on Settlement Announcement", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, has asked the Securities and Exchange Commission to inform the Judiciary Committee on whether the commission is looking into whether Mylan misled investors in announcing a settlement on overcharging the taxpayers for EpiPens under Medicaid.\u00a0  \u00a0  \u201cIf Mylan\u2019s purpose of the press release was to increase stock prices at the risk of misleading investors, it is exactly this set of facts and circumstances that the SEC should monitor,\u201d Grassley wrote to SEC Chair Mary Jo White. \u00a0\u201cCompanies cannot be allowed to manipulate the markets and investors via press releases. Accordingly, since the SEC is already investigating Mylan, I request that you inform the Committee as to whether the SEC is looking into Mylan\u2019s press release to determine if it was materially misleading.\u201d  \u00a0  Grassley wrote that Mylan issued a press release Oct. 7 announcing the settlement with specific references to some of its alleged terms, but the Justice Department has maintained that there is no executed settlement and has been unwilling to confirm the alleged terms. \u00a0The company also filed a document called an 8-K report describing the settlement and mentioning an SEC investigation over the Medicaid overcharges.  \u00a0  \u201cThis seems to contradict Mylan\u2019s claim that all potential liability claims have been resolved. Mylan made no mention of the fact that they are under an SEC investigation in their press release,\u201d Grassley wrote. \u00a0\u201cGiven the dissonance between the press release, the 8-K filing, and the fact that no settlement agreement has been executed, Mylan should explain why it released such a strongly worded press release knowing that a finalized settlement did not yet exist and given the apparent SEC investigation. Further, it has now been over five weeks since Mylan\u2019s press release and apparently a settlement has still not been executed.\u201d  \u00a0  Grassley asked for a response by Nov. 29. \u00a0Grassley is looking into the potential settlement between the Justice Department and Mylan over hundreds of millions of dollars of overcharges to the taxpayers under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program and the role government agencies had in regard to holding Mylan accountable for the misclassification. \u00a0Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services officials were told in March 2009 that Mylan misclassified the EpiPen and was overcharging the taxpayers, yet the problem apparently persisted nonetheless. \u00a0Grassley is seeking accountability for the problem to help make sure it does not recur.  \u00a0  Grassley\u2019s letter to the SEC is available here. \u00a0  \u00a0  \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/members-iowa-delegation-urge-president-elect-scrap-wotus-rule", "Members of Iowa Delegation Urge President-Elect to Scrap WOTUS Rule", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Iowa's U.S. Senators Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley and Representatives Rod Blum (R-01), David Young (R-03) and Steve King (R-04) sent President-elect Donald J. Trump a letter urging him to scrap the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule in the first few days of his presidency.In the letter, members of the Iowa delegation wrote, \u201cThis misguided WOTUS rule is an economic assault on small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture, and threatens the very livelihood of our fellow Iowans. These industries are the backbone of this country, especially in rural America. The election results signaled that Americans are ready for the last eight years of EPA\u2019s power grabbing mentality to come to an end.\u201dThey added, \u201cLast year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway.\u201dThe members urged strong action, concluding, \u201c\u2026 we strongly encourage you to use all the tools at your disposal to free the American people from this blatant overreach. We also respectfully urge you to direct your EPA to craft a common-sense rule that clarifies the scope of the CWA and does so by taking into consideration the input of all stakeholders.\u201dClick here or see below to view the full letter to President-elect Donald J. Trump.November 21, 2016The Honorable Donald Trump  The President-elect  Trump Tower  725 5th Ave  New York, NY 10022We write to you today to express our strong concern about the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) Waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS), and we respectfully urge you to do everything within your power as chief executive to stop this harmful rule in the first days of your presidency.This misguided WOTUS rule is an economic assault on small businesses, manufacturing and agriculture, and threatens the very livelihood of our fellow Iowans. These industries are the backbone of this country, especially in rural America. The election results signaled that Americans are ready for the last eight years of EPA\u2019s power grabbing mentality to come to an end.As you know, the Clean Water Act (CWA) was created to address pollution problems in the nation\u2019s navigable waters and improve water quality through a local-state-federal partnership. While we fully support this goal, the scope of the expanded WOTUS definition far exceeds what was originally intended by Congress when it enacted the CWA. Under the guise of protecting clean water, the current administration\u2019s EPA is not just seeking to expand its jurisdiction over waters not originally covered under the CWA, but also on private land. For example, the WOTUS rule could give EPA extensive power to regulate activities on 97 percent of the land in Iowa. This rule will no doubt leave our nation\u2019s job creators in a wave of legal uncertainty, compliance burdens, and increased costs.Last year, both the Senate and the House passed a resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.22), led by Senator Ernst to scrap this harmful rule. It passed each chamber with bipartisan support, but our current president vetoed it anyway. Thankfully a nationwide stay has been placed on the rule by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, but it could be years until this litigation is settled. Meanwhile the business owners, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners in communities across the country are left with uncertainty, and are concerned that the EPA will continue to take steps to implement the rule through a piecemeal approach.As mentioned above, we strongly encourage you to use all the tools at your disposal to free the American people from this blatant overreach. We also respectfully urge you to direct your EPA to craft a common-sense rule that clarifies the scope of the CWA and does so by taking into consideration the input of all stakeholders.  Sincerely,Joni K. Ernst \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 Chuck Grassley  United States Senator \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 United States SenatorDavid Young \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 Rod Blum  United States Congressman \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0United States CongressmanSteve King  United States Congressman  \u00a0-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/taking-pause-and-giving-thanks", "Taking a Pause and Giving Thanks", "2016-11-20", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Thanksgiving is a holiday rooted in American tradition, engrained in hundreds of years of being grateful for all we have. In looking forward to Thanksgiving this year, I am reminded of how truly thankful I am to live in this great nation, and grateful for those who serve to protect it.\nClick here to read the full newsletter.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://davidyoung.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/speaker-ryan-signs-youngs-veterans-crisis-line-improvements-legislation", "Speaker Ryan Signs Young's Veterans Crisis Line Improvements Legislation", "2016-11-18", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "David Young", "Y000066", "davidyoung.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Speaker Ryan Signs Young's Veterans Crisis Line Improvements Legislation\nLegislation Heads to President's Desk\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0-\u00a0Iowa Congressman David Young released the following statement after House Speaker Paul Ryan yesterday signed Congressman Young's No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act (H.R.5392), legislation to make critical improvements to this mental health tool relied upon by our nation's veterans. The legislation heads to the president's desk.\n\"I appreciate Speaker Ryan's support of this important legislation for our veterans, as well as the unanimous support it has received from my colleagues in both the House and the Senate,\"\u00a0Congressman Young said.\u00a0\"Our veterans deserve quality mental health resources, and my bill works to ensure the Veterans Crisis Line, one of those tools, is operating effectively to provide help and assistance to our veterans. I urge the president to sign this bill into law without delay.\"\nThe No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act seeks to provide necessary responsiveness and performance improvements to the Veterans Crisis Line, which is the confidential, toll free hotline for veterans seeking suicide prevention and crisis resources help from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) responders.\n\u00a0  Speaker Ryan signs the No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act. (Photo credit: Speaker Ryan's office)\nSpeaker Ryan discussed Congressman Young's Veterans Crisis Line improvements bill during his weekly press briefing.\u00a0Click here\u00a0or on the image below to watch.\nREMARKS\n\u201cThis week, Congress gave final approval to legislation that will help veterans in need. H.R. 5392 requires the VA [to] respond to calls to its crisis hotlines in a timely manner.\n\u201cThis is one of those bills that should not even be necessary, but sadly\u0097and tragically\u0097it is.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cEarlier this year, we learned that more than one out of three calls to the VA crisis hotline were going unanswered.\u00a0Imagine a veteran calling for help and then getting sent to voicemail. There is no excuse for that.\u00a0\u201cThis bill, authored by my colleague David Young, requires that the VA make improvements so that veterans actually get the help when they need the help.\u00a0\u201cAs part of our Better Way agenda, we propose building a truly 21st-century VA. And this will be a priority of the new unified Republican government.\u00a0But for now, this initiative is good news ahead of Thanksgiving, a time to be grateful for all the men and women who have fought for us.\u201d\u00a0To view Speaker Ryan's entire weekly press briefing, visit his website\u00a0www.speaker.gov.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/qa-epipen-pricing", "Q&A: EpiPen Pricing", "2016-11-18", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With U.S. Senator Chuck GrassleyQ:\u00a0 Why are you looking into the pricing practices of an FDA-approved product known as an EpiPen?A:\u00a0 Like so much of my oversight work, the issue of exorbitant price increases for a key medicine came to me from Iowans. They wanted answers about the high prices they were paying for their children\u2019s medicine to treat severe allergic reactions. The widely known auto-injector is called an EpiPen and requires a prescription. It is used to inject a life-saving dose of epinephrine to counter an allergic reaction. Dozens of Iowa families contacted my office, writing letters to note the financial hardship that the price hike was creating to keep this life-saving device on hand for their kids. Since 2007, the drug manufacturer has increased the price for a two-pack dose from $100 to $600. Considering many families stock EpiPens at home, in the car and at school -- and in some cases for more than one child in the family -- the huge price increase is creating a big time hardship in household budgets. What\u2019s more, this is a recurring expense for families considering the medication has a one-year shelf life. Families at the mercy of the pharmaceutical company\u2019s pricing decision rightfully want answers. As one Iowan wrote in her letter: \u201cI will pay whatever it takes\u201d to keep her son protected against his severe peanut allergy. Once I started looking into the price increases, I discovered even more troubling issues linked to the drug manufacturer\u2019s pricing strategy. Keep in mind that the taxpaying public pays for a lion\u2019s share of pharmaceuticals prescribed and dispensed to millions of patients though the Medicaid and Medicare programs, as well as millions more of our nation\u2019s veterans and members of the military.\u00a0 This raises a red flag as to how Mylan\u2019s price structure affects taxpayers and consumers, the federal government, state governments and insurers.\u00a0The deeper I probed, even more troubling questions kept cropping up. It turns out that Mylan, the drug manufacturer, reportedly classified EpiPen as a generic under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, rather than as a brand name drug. That misclassification cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars because it allowed for the EpiPen to qualify for a 13 percent rebate rather than a more generous 23.1 percent rebate under Medicaid.\u00a0 According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), taxpayers spent $797 million on EpiPens through Medicaid from 2011 to 2015. Medicare spent $335 million in that time period. What\u2019s most troubling in all of this is that the federal government was told in March 2009 \u2013 more than seven years ago \u2013 that the EpiPen was misclassified as a generic, rather than a brand name drug. And yet, no apparent action was taken and taxpayers paid hundreds of millions of dollars more because of it. The American people deserve to know why their government apparently failed to act sooner rather than later and what justification Mylan used to launch such a massive price increase on consumers.\u00a0 I\u2019ll continue to work to get answers.Q:\u00a0 What steps have you taken to achieve accountability and transparency in this matter?A:\u00a0 For the last several months, I have ramped up bipartisan oversight efforts to get answers from the executive branch. In August, I wrote a bipartisan inquiry to CMS asking for more information regarding EpiPen\u2019s classification as a generic drug, and specifically, the impact on the taxpaying public. Once it came to light that the misclassification has cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, I followed up with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to find out how in the world the drug was misclassified in the first place, let alone since 2007. In addition, I\u2019ve called upon Mylan to reimburse the Department of Defense (DoD) for millions of dollars the DoD overpaid in taxpayer funds for the drug, up to three times the discounted price the DoD receives for drugs dispensed at military facilities. It appears that for nearly a decade, the DoD overpaid for EpiPens at its retail pharmacies due to the misclassification, costing taxpayers upwards of $50 million.\u00a0 Now, it\u2019s even more important to find out if Mylan knowingly misclassified EpiPen to avoid larger rebate payments at the expense of our military families and taxpayers.  In another bipartisan letter, I wrote to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding reports that Mylan engaged in possible anti-competitive business behavior, including exclusive contracts with schools, possibly precluding competition in the drug market. I received affirmation from the FTC that stopping anti-competitive behavior within the pharmaceutical industry is a top priority.Let\u2019s be clear that the pharmaceutical industry operates in a complex regulatory structure to protect patient safety. Policymakers also must work to ensure that companies aren\u2019t engaging in anti-competitive practices in violation of the anti-trust laws or the regulatory process. In our system of free enterprise, profit drives job creation, wage growth, innovation and economic activity. Competition is the magic sauce that can create the next blockbuster drug as well as reduce drug prices. That\u2019s why I conduct robust oversight to keep the playing field level to foster healthy economic growth and competition in the marketplace. No matter which sector of the economy, from pharmaceuticals to agriculture, it\u2019s essential to keep competition fair and square and hold to account those who don\u2019t play by the rules. It\u2019s just as important to make sure the government faithfully enforces the law on behalf of the American people. With high drug prices on the minds of so many Americans, it\u2019s imperative that we foster competition to keep prices down and quality and innovation up.In addition to my tireless oversight work, I\u2019m pushing legislative solutions that would push back against anti-competitive behavior to strengthen competition and hold down drug costs. The bipartisan bills I\u2019m working on would help bring more generic drugs to market for consumer benefit.\u00a0 They are the Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act and the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-passing-us-marshals-service-deputy-commander-patrick-carothers", "Grassley Statement on Passing of U.S. Marshals Service Deputy Commander Patrick Carothers", "2016-11-18", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley today released the following statement on the death of Patrick Carothers, the Deputy Commander for the U.S. Marshals Service\u2019s Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force. \u00a0Carothers was killed in the line of duty this morning near Ludowici, Ga., while executing an arrest warrant for a fugitive wanted for attempted murder of police officers, domestic violence and unlawfully discharging a weapon.\u201cDeputy Commander Carothers was a dedicated public servant who worked diligently to make our country a safer place. His family, friends and the entire Marshals Service community are in my prayers. \u00a0The Marshals Service is tasked with apprehending some of the most dangerous fugitives so they can no longer inflict harm on our communities. \u00a0It\u2019s an important job and I\u2019m grateful for the brave men and women, like Deputy Commander Carothers, for their service,\u201d Grassley said.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-president-elect-trump-selection-senator-sessions-attorney", "Grassley Statement on President-elect Trump Selection of Senator Sessions for Attorney General", "2016-11-18", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley made the following statement regarding President-elect Donald Trump\u2019s selection of Senator Jeff Sessions to be Attorney General.\"Senator Sessions is a respected member and former Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee who has worked across the aisle on major legislation.\u00a0 He knows the Justice Department as a former U.S. attorney, which would serve him very well in this position.\u00a0 With this background, I'm confident he would be reported favorably out of the committee.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-ftc-commitment-protecting-consumers-drug-company", "Grassley Welcomes FTC Commitment to Protecting Consumers from Drug Company Anticompetitive Behavior Leading to Higher Drug Prices", "2016-11-18", "2016", "2016-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Charles Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON -- Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley today welcomed a commitment from the Federal Trade Commission to protect consumers from anticompetitive behavior in the pharmaceutical sector. \u00a0The statement from the commission chairwoman came in response to a request from Grassley and Ranking Member Patrick Leahy to review Mylan\u2019s business practices on EpiPens for possible anticompetitive behavior.\u00a0\u201cThe laws to prevent anticompetitive practices help promote competition that holds down consumer costs,\u201d Grassley said. \u00a0\u201cWith high drug prices on so many minds, the priority of maintaining competition among drug companies is important and welcome.\u201dIn a letter to Grassley, FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez wrote, \u201c\u2026 I strongly agree that maintaining competition in pharmaceutical markets is critically important, and I can assure you that protecting consumers from anticompetitive activity in the pharmaceutical sector remains a top priority for the Commission.\u201dThe senators\u2019 request to the FTC followed news reports that Mylan engaged in exclusive contracts with schools, potentially precluding them from purchasing products that compete with the auto-injector to treat severe allergic reactions. \u00a0Ramirez wrote that she could not discuss any matter that may be under review by the commission but \u201cplease be assured that we are aware of the concerns you and others have raised on this subject.\u201d\u00a0Mylan has come under recent scrutiny for dramatic increases in the price of EpiPen and revelations from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that Mylan misclassified EpiPen in the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, allowing the company to pay lower rebates than it should have.The Judiciary Committee has scheduled a hearing to explore a reported settlement agreement between the Justice Department and Mylan related to the misclassification issue. \u00a0The Department of Justice and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid are declining to testify. \u00a0Grassley has criticized that decision, citing the need for accountability for the hundreds of millions of dollars in taxpayer overpayments for the EpiPen since 2009, when CMS was told of the misclassification. \u00a0In addition to calling for enforcement of statutes promoting competition to hold down drug costs, Grassley is a lead co-sponsor of two pending bipartisan bills that would help bring more generic drugs to market for consumer benefit, the Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act, and the Preserve Access to Affordable Generics Act.The FTC response is available here. \u00a0The Grassley-Leahy letter is available here.-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 667, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, 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