{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"ID\" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-scott-demand-biden-admin-delay-red-tape-rule-detrimental-to-small-businesses", "Crapo, Risch, Scott Demand Biden Admin Delay Red-Tape Rule Detrimental to Small Businesses", "2023-12-21", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Rick Scott (R-Florida) with U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Chairman Patrick McHenry (R-North Carolina) and 76 of their colleagues wrote U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Director of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Andrea Gacki urging the administration to delay the implementation of new reporting requirements for small businesses.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the millions of small businesses in our states, we write to you today with significant concerns regarding the implementation of the beneficial ownership reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA),\u201d wrote the elected officials. \u201c . . . While the goal of this new law is to target shell companies involved in illicit financial transactions, the CTA defines covered entities as those having 20 or fewer employees and under $5 million in revenue. In other words, not just shell companies, but nearly every small business in America.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnfortunately, FinCEN is woefully behind in educating small business owners and stakeholders of their new obligations under the CTA that begin in just a few short weeks . . . This lack of awareness and education is alarming and must be addressed before the law is implemented,\u201d continued the leaders. \u201cFinCEN has yet to finalize the two final BOI rulemakings that are critical to protecting small businesses\u2019 personal information. We strongly request that FinCEN delay the January 1, 2024, effective date for all BOI requirements by a minimum of one year and FinCEN has finalized all outstanding rulemakings. We believe a year\u2019s delay will provide FinCEN and the business community with more time to educate owners of their new obligations. It will also give FinCEN time to review the new rules and improve and finalize the statute\u2019s regulatory framework.\u201d\n\nThe full letter is available here.\n\nJoining Senators Crapo, Risch and Scott are U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-North Dakota), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Dan Sullivan (R-Alabama), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Katie Boyd Britt (R-Alabama), Steve Daines (R-Montana), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota) and John Kennedy (R-Louisiana).\n\nThe letter is also supported by numerous organizations, including:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-wyden-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-honoring-medal-of-honor-recipients", "Crapo, Risch, Wyden Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation Honoring Medal of Honor Recipients", "2023-12-20", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) applaud Senate passage of bipartisan legislation designating U.S. Highway 20 between Newport, Oregon, and New England as the \u201cNational Medal of Honor Highway.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Medal of Honor represents the determination and courage of those who acted far beyond the call of duty,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI look forward to the enactment of law cementing this national designation to honor each of them across these many miles.\u201d\n\n\u201cMedal of Honor recipients\u2019 selfless actions deserve more than a medal\u2014they deserve America\u2019s continued gratitude,\u201d said Risch. \u201cTo recognize their service to our nation, the Senate today designated U.S. Highway 20, which spans the great state of Idaho, as a 3,000-mile memorial to the recipients of our nation\u2019s highest military designation. The House should quickly pass this legislation, so we can rename the longest continuous highway in America the National Medal of Honor Highway.\u201d\n\n\"It's an honor to have worked closely with veterans in Oregon and nationwide in the grassroots movement to designate our country's longest continuous highway, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, as the \u2018National Medal of Honor Highway,\u2019\u201d said Wyden. \u201cI\u2019m proud that my bill to officially recognize U.S. Highway 20 as the \u2018National Medal of Honor Highway\u2019 has passed the Senate.\n\nThis bill is more than a symbolic gesture\u2014it's a timeless tribute to the heroes of America. I am steadfast in my commitment to relentlessly champion this cause alongside our veterans, and I\u2019ll keep fighting tooth and nail to get this bill signed into law.\u201d\n\nThe Medal of Honor is the nation\u2019s highest military award for valor, presented by the president in Congress\u2019 name. U.S. servicemembers who distinguish themselves \u201cthrough conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty\u201d can receive the medal.\n\nLegislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 have designated their state Medal of Honor Highways covering 100 percent of the 3,365-mile Medal of Honor Highway across America. The 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 account for about 62 percent of all 3,516 Medal of Honor awards presented since the Civil War. Designating U.S. Highway 20 as the \u201cNational Medal of Honor Highway'' would ensure all 3,516 recipients and any future recipients from all 50 states and territories are honored.\n\nSenators Jeff Merkley, (D-Oregon), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Chuck Schumer (D-New York), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), Ed Markey (D-Massachusetts), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Jon Tester (D-Montana), and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) cosponsored the Senate version of the bill. U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-Pennsylvania) and Brian Higgins (D-New York) led similar legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the Bend Heroes Foundation, Military Officers Association of America, The American Legion, Legion of Valor, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Vietnam Veterans of America, Medal of Honor Historical Society of the United States, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/12/19/id-7b71f598-d399-40e1-8665-6f5d84740917/", "PRESS RELEASE \u2013 Congressman Fulcher\u2019s Statement on the Biden Administration\u2019s Attempt to Undermine Congress Over the Snake River Dams", "2023-12-19", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, December 19\n\nCONTACT: Marisa Melton, (208) 743 \u2013 1388, marisa.melton@mail.house.gov\n\nCongressman Fulcher\u2019s Statement on the Biden Administration\u2019s Attempt to Undermine Congress Over the Snake River Dams\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 On Thursday, December 14 the Biden Administration announced a potential 10-year stay in the Lower Snake River Dams mediation. As well as, over $1 billion in additional funding for fish restoration and studies to offset the hydropower, transportation, and recreation benefits that these dams provide.\n\n\u201cThe Biden Administration seems to be forgetting that Congress has the sole authority over the Snake River Dams,\u201d Congressman Russ Fulcher said. \u201cNot the executive branch. These agencies are supposed to be implementing policy, not making them. This is a legal proceeding with the administration evading Congress by setting up a new policy, and that is illegal.\u201d\n\nThe Congressman explained the wealth generated from these dams means Idahoans can keep families intact, communities whole, and economic opportunities in place. Congressman Fulcher said that generations of Americans have relied upon these energy and transport systems to make a future for their families and their communities. Yet, these key stakeholders have been left out of the conversation.\n\n\u201cWithout the lower Snake River dams,\u201d Congressman Fulcher said. \u201cFamilies will go without power in the heat of summer and the cold of winter. The economic ruin that is certain to follow will not provide justice to communities across Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon already surrounded by federal lands rife with bureaucratic red tape. The Columbia River System Operations is an essential maritime highway that navigates the export of grain and other crops to feed the world, and the stakeholders that work with these dams firsthand have been ignored through this process.\u201d\n\nThe Pacific Northwest Waterways Association has been front and center during these conversations demanding to have their rightful seat at the table. As a collaboration of ports, businesses, and public agencies, the PNWA works to support the navigation, energy, trade, and economic development throughout the Northwest.\n\n\u201cThe exclusion of regional voices from the negotiations is a missed opportunity to address these multifaceted issues, signaling a top-down decision-making process removed from those it affects,\u201d PNWA Executive Director Niel Maunu said. \u201cThis is extremely apparent by the lack of attention given to the transportation study aimed at examining the impacts of dam breaching with only a meager $750,000 allocated for an impact study, which starkly contrasts with the in-depth $10 million analysis suggested in the Murray-Inslee Report. A fully informed approach, accounting for all repercussions to our transportation network, is indispensable \u2013 the current proposal grossly underestimates this need.\u201d\n\nOverall, 5-6 million tons of cargo are transported through the Snake River Dams via barges each year. This is the equivalent of 151,000 semi-trucks or 39,000 rail cars. For the Idaho Grain Producers Association, taking out these dams would be detrimental to their daily operation.\n\n\u201cThe dams on the Lower Snake River are critical to Idaho\u2019s grain growers,\u201d Stacey Satterlee, Idaho Grain Producers Association Executive Director said. \u201d In addition to producing energy that our state and region have an increasing demand for, approximately half of Idaho\u2019s wheat crop, which was 116 million bushels in 2020, is barged from Lewiston to customers around the world. In fact, 10% of U.S. wheat moves through the dams on the Snake and Columbia Rivers. Barging is the lowest-carbon-emission, most efficient mode of transportation available to move wheat. The benefits the dams provide in terms of barging, power generation, recreation, and irrigation cannot be replaced.\u201d\n\nThese dams are the backbone of rural communities across the Northwest in more ways than one. Leslie Druffle, Outreach Director at the McGregor Company explained that the U.S. Government\u2019s agreement with the six sovereigns presents serious concerns beyond river users that will impact the entire region\u2019s ratepayers, farmers, barging, cruise operations, ports, irrigators, and rural communities.\n\n\u201cOur frustration with the agreement and the process by which it was created is only tempered by the USG\u2019s acknowledgment of Congress as having the sole authority to breach any of the Federal hydropower projects on the Columbia & Snake River system,\u201d Druffle said. \u201cThe McGregor Company stands together with Idaho agriculture and will continue to support fish recovery efforts that do not include unnecessary dismantling of clean hydropower or actions that cripple our rural communities.\u201d\n\nLewiston is one of those communities that will feel the heavy impact of any removal of the dams, as it is home to the most inland port in the Northwest and provides economic development, international trade, and so much more to the region, all with the help of the Snake River Dams.\n\n\u201cRemoval of the Lower Snake River Dams would destroy river commerce at the Port of Lewiston and for the LC Valley,\u201d Scott Corbitt, Port of Lewiston General Manager said. \u201cThe tremendous economic advantages for Idaho farmers and Idaho industries that utilize the rivers would dry up, along with the river. Our future growth into industries such as river cruising would be impossible without the LSRD. The lifestyles of the people of Lewiston are built on the existing rivers, and dam removal would undercut that foundation and adversely change our way of life.\u201d\n\nCities such as Lewiston are also seeing a spike in tourism and economic development around their port thanks to companies like American Cruise Lines, which offers a Snake River cruise to thousands of people each year. Travelers stay onboard beautiful American-made vessels, see the beauty of the Northwest, and have the ability to learn firsthand about what dams do and how they provide to the community.\n\n\u201cThe growth in cruising on the Columbia Snake River System has brought significant economic development benefits for communities throughout the Northwest,\u201d Kristin Meira, American Cruise Lines Government Affairs Director said. \u201cThe locks and dams on the Snake River make it possible for the vessels to reach Lewiston, Idaho, bringing tens of thousands of visitors to the area each year. All this would be lost if dam breaching occurs, with ripple effects at hotels, excursion providers, and the Nez Perce \u2013 Lewiston Regional Airport.\u201d\n\nCongressman Fulcher stated he is constantly inspired by the resilience of the farmers, ranchers, barge and port operators, and the recreational tourism, power, and all the immense benefits provided by the Lower Snake River Dams and plans to do everything in his power to keep them in place.\n\n\u201cWith U.S. adversaries competing on the world stage,\u201d Congressman Fulcher said. \u201cNow is not the time for us to return to a dark and bleak anti-growth future. As we progress towards a cleaner energy future, let\u2019s make the systems we have today work for future generations. I cannot in good faith tell the residents of Idaho to trade energy reliability for energy stagnation and economic uncertainty all to meet the whims and desires of the Biden Administration\u2019s push for environmental justice.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-braun-introduce-bill-to-hold_atf-accountable-give-certainty-to-gun-owners-and-manufacturers", "Crapo, Risch, Braun Introduce Bill to Hold  ATF Accountable, Give Certainty to Gun Owners and Manufacturers", "2023-12-19", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Mike Braun (R-Indiana) introduced the ATF Accountability Act, which would provide transparency to gun owners across America on rules made by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The ATF engages in a secretive classification review process where the agency decides whether a particular firearm is regulated by the National Firearms Act and refuses to make final public rules regarding classification. The ATF\u2019s lack of transparency creates significant uncertainty for both gun-owning Americans and firearm manufacturers.\n\n\u201cIncreasing transparent review and an appeals process for rulings and determinations made by the ATF would ensure that firearms manufacturers and lawful gun owners are not subject to unchecked bureaucratic rulings,\" said Crapo. \"Burdening law-abiding citizens of this country with additional gun restrictions is not the answer to safeguarding the public.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe ATF\u2019s ability to designate firearms behind closed doors puts law abiding gun owners and firearms manufacturers in a difficult and sometimes impossible situation,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe ATF Accountability Act will stop the agency\u2019s secretive classification process, create accountability, and empower gun owners and manufacturers to appeal rulings.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican gun owners and manufacturers have been left in the dark for far too long with closed-door rule changes by the ATF,\u201d said Braun. \u201cAmericans exercising their Second Amendment rights shouldn\u2019t be the last to know the classification status of firearms, or what licenses or tax stamps they need to avoid running afoul of the law. The ATF needs accountability and transparency, which this bill accomplishes.\u201d\n\nThe ATF Accountability Act:\n\nCreates an appeals process following a ruling by ATF with specific regular timeframes; and\n\nPermits gun manufacturers to appeal the legal status or classification of any product by filing with the Director of Industry Operations with jurisdiction. After which, the appeal is directed to an administrative law judge.\n\nSenators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), John Hoeven (R-South Dakota), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) and Rick Scott (R-Florida) cosponsored the legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/us-senate-unanimously-passes-legislation-to-pay-owed-interest-to-shoshone-paiute", "U.S. Senate Unanimously Passes Legislation to Pay Owed Interest to Shoshone-Paiute", "2023-12-19", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--Legislation backed by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) to allow the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of Duck Valley to receive more than $5 million in interest owed to them from the 2009 Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation Water Rights Settlement Act unanimously passed the U.S. Senate.\n\n\u201cThe Senate\u2019s unanimous support for this much-needed fix takes the next step in upholding the federal government\u2019s full interest terms of the 2009 settlement with the Duck Valley Reservation,\u201d said Senator Crapo. \u201cI urge the House of Representatives to quickly take up the measure and send it to the President to be signed into law. This error must be corrected expeditiously.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Shoshone-Paiute Tribes\u2019 water rights settlement mistakenly excluded interest payments, which unfairly cut these communities short,\u201d said Senator Risch. \u201cThe passage of our legislation is a good step in correcting this error and provides the Tribes the proper interest they are owed.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Shoshone Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation, I want to thank Senators Cortez Masto, Crapo, Rosen and Risch for their work on behalf of the Tribes in securing Senate passage of S. 950,\u201d said Tribal Chairman Brian Mason. \u201cThis legislation will restore the value of the trust funds provided to the Tribes to the level intended by Congress in our 2009 congressionally approved water settlement, and is an important step to fulfilling the economic potential of the Duck Valley Reservation.\u201d\n\nInterest payments are commonplace in Indian water settlements but were inadvertently left out of this one. The bill, if signed into law, will correct this oversight and allow the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation to collect the full amount they are owed from the federal government. The reservation is split nearly evenly in half along the border of Nevada, with the northern half of the reservation in the southern part of Owyhee County.\n\nThe bill, S. 950, was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) on March 22, 2023, with both Crapo and Risch as original co-sponsors. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada) also co-sponsored the measure.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-legislation-investing-in-rural-schools-passes-out-of-committee", "Crapo Legislation Investing in Rural Schools Passes out of Committee", "2023-12-15", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo\u2019s (R-Idaho) bipartisan bill to reauthorize the U.S. Forest Service\u2019s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through 2026 has passed out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Crapo was joined by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) in reintroducing the legislation.\n\n\u201cAlleviating uncertainty for rural county governments in the future is the ultimate goal. I applaud the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for making this first, important step in extending SRS payments through 2026,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cIdaho\u2019s rural counties rely on these continued payments to ensure funding for schools, road maintenance, public safety, search and rescue operations as well as mental and physical health services.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am pleased to see such a strong vote for our rural counties. We need to work to increase forest management and bring back historic timber revenue, but, in the meantime, we have an obligation to these communities,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThis committee vote is an important step, and Congress must continue to move to reauthorize SRS.\u201d\n\nU.S. Representatives Joe Neguse (D-Colorado), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington) and Val Hoyle (D-Oregon) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nSRS was enacted in 2000 to financially assist counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands. The U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management administer the funds. The totals are based on a formula including economic activity, timber harvest levels and other considerations that vary from county to county. SRS payments are critical to maintain education programs for many rural counties that contain federal lands exempt from property taxes.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-daines-push-biden-administration-to-protect-communities-from-dangers-of-wildfire-smoke-increase-active-forest-management", "Crapo, Risch, Daines Push Biden Administration to Protect Communities from Dangers of Wildfire Smoke, Increase Active Forest Management", "2023-12-15", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Steve Daines (R-Montana) led a group of senators in sending a letter to Biden administration officials on the need to use prescribed fires to protect communities from the negative impacts of wildfires and increase active forest management.\n\n\u201cFor decades, western states have faced smoke filled summers that harm vulnerable populations, degrade the enjoyment of the outdoors, and weaken the economic vitality of communities that support outdoor recreation industries,\" the Senators wrote. \"Prescribed fire is a proven method to reduce risk of catastrophic wildfire and the associated smoke from the mega-fires confronting our communities today. Given the significant harms that wildfire smoke alone causes, the MOU gives your agencies the opportunity to allow for prescribed fire, which is a vital tool to mitigating wildfire risk, while protecting public health. Prescribed fires cause a small amount of smoke at a predictable time and in a more controlled manner, which is far preferable to the large and unpredictable smoke of catastrophic wildfires.\u201d\n\nOn November 8, 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of the Interior (DOI), Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to enhance collaboration between the agencies to protect communities from the negative impacts of wildfire smoke. Complex and technical regulations from the EPA continue to limit the use of prescribed fires, which produce far less smoke than wildfires and can be planned when wind is blowing away from communities.\n\nRead the full letter sent to the EPA, DOI, USDA and the CDC HERE.\n\nSenators Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Laphonza Butler (D-Califonia), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Arizona), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Jon Tester (D-Montana) also signed the letter.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-congressional-delegation-introduces-legislation-to-protect-access-to-local-post-offices", "Idaho Congressional Delegation Introduces Legislation to Protect Access to Local Post Offices", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and Representatives Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson (all R-Idaho) introduced legislation in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to improve access to local U.S. Postal Services (USPS) post offices. The legislation would require more community input before relocating a post office as well as encourage recommendations from municipalities to request additional post offices.\n\nThe Mandating Advisable and Informed Locations and Solutions (MAILS) Act would:\n\nRequire the USPS to establish a formal process for local government officials to request a new post office within their localities; and\n\nRequire USPS to solicit and consider community input, as well as formally notify elected officials of pending relocation of local post offices and provide updates as necessary. Any long-term relocation would require USPS to submit a report to relevant committees and legislators from affected localities.\n\n\u201cUSPS has, for far too long, lacked the processes to engage local communities and address their needs effectively,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cIdaho residents have rightfully brought these issues to our attention, and we are working in unison to help Idaho\u2019s communities, residents and businesses have adequate access to postal services.\u201d\n\n\u201cIdahoans rely on the U.S. Postal Service to provide everything from correspondence to pharmaceuticals, yet many of our communities lack access or have waited years for a physical post,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe MAILS Act will empower local governments to apply for new postal facilities when and if they need them, and it will require USPS to consider community input and inform local officials whenever post offices are relocated.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the population of Idaho grows, it is clear that public services must match that pace,\u201d said Simpson. \u201cThe MAILS Act provides a much-needed avenue for community members to engage with the United States Postal Service about their local postal service needs. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor legislation that will bring increased efficiency and transparency to the operations of the United States Postal Service.\u201d\n\n\u201cMeridian has been one of the fastest growing cities in Idaho, and likely the country,\u201d said Fulcher. \u201cTo not recognize the increasing burden and inconvenience my constituents are facing when they have to travel long distances to obtain mail, including needed medications. Other communities, like Deary and Viola, were notified their local post offices were closing. In none of these cases has USPS adequately addressed community input. With the closings in Deary and Viola, there was no notice.\u201d\n\nThis legislation comes as Idaho communities have reported struggles in conveying their needs to USPS. The City of Meridian is requesting USPS establish a new post office in the city, but USPS could not delineate the process for requesting a new post office. Likewise, Idaho communities in Deary and Viola were notified local post offices were closing without community input, creating difficulties and inconveniences for residents and businesses traveling long distances to obtain mail, some including needed medications.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-delivers-remarks-expressing-disappointment-in-lack-of-radiation-compensation-in-defense-bill", "Crapo Delivers Remarks Expressing Disappointment in Lack of Radiation Compensation in Defense Bill", "2023-12-13", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered remarks on the Senate floor to express his disappointment after updates to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) were not included in the conference report of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\nThe amendment, which passed the Senate 61-37 in July, would expand the coverage area to allow more potential victims, those who lived downwind of above-ground atomic weapons tests in the 1950s and 1960s, known as \u201cdownwinders,\u201d to file for compensation under RECA. While the original RECA program only covered individuals who lived in parts of Utah, Nevada and Arizona, this amendment would expand the geographic downwinder eligibility to include then-residents of Idaho, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico and Guam. The amendment would extend the program for 19 years, expand the program to include uranium mining workers through 1990 and expand the use of affidavits in determining eligibility claims.\n\nTo watch Senator Crapo\u2019s full remarks, click HERE or the image above.\n\n\u201cMr./Madam President:\n\n\u201cI rise today to urge the Senate to do more for Americans who have suffered from the aftereffects of the development of our nuclear arsenal.\n\n\u201cIt is profoundly disappointing to see that the necessary updates to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, spearheaded by Senators Lujan, Hawley, Schmitt and myself, were not included in the conference report of the National Defense Authorization Act.\n\n\u201cWhen America developed the atom bomb through the Manhattan project, and tested those weapons through the Trinity tests, our country unknowingly poisoned those who mined, transported and milled uranium, those who participated in nuclear testing, and those who lived downwind of the tests.\n\n\u201cDon Harrison was one of those who lived downwind.\n\n\u201cBorn in Emmett, Idaho, Don was born in 1931, and graduated from Emmett High School in 1949.\n\nHe served in the U.S. Army from 1950-1953, came back to Emmett to marry the love of his life, Donna, and worked as a farmer, dairy deliveryman, mechanic and truck driver to provide for his nine children. His family describes him as a loving father who taught the values of hard work and integrity and to see the worth and light in others.\n\nBut because Emmett received the third-most radiation from being downwind of the Trinity tests, Don Harrison lived on poisoned ground.\n\nHe ended up contracting basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer, eventually passing away in 2018.\n\nHis daughter Vonnie shared his story with the Idaho Downwinders, my staff and me in the hopes of finally righting the wrongs of leaving downwinders behind.\n\nDon Harrison was one of the thousands in Gem County, Idaho, and beyond who were unfortunately living in an area downwind of the Trinity tests.\n\nAnd this is not a matter just affecting conservative or liberal states\u2014the bipartisan nature of RECA updates is because it affects people regardless of political affiliation.\n\nTo be clear, the government\u2019s test of nuclear weapons caused this.\n\nIt is our solemn duty to compensate those who have suffered because of these tests.\n\nThe RECA Amendments ensure those who live downwind of the tests receive compensation from the government, and provide support to uranium miners who worked during the Cold War.\n\nI have worked with my colleagues for the past 13 years to attempt to right these wrongs, and July\u2019s vote to include RECA Amendments in the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act shows the widespread, bipartisan support to help those who have suffered.\n\nIt is frustrating and discouraging that bipartisan support from both chambers of Congress still cannot get this legislation enacted into law.\n\nWhile this speech is unlikely to bring the necessary updates back into consideration with this conference report, I am committed to working with my colleagues to update RECA to better reflect the realities of nuclear testing.\n\nI thank Senators Lujan and Hawley, and Representatives Moylan and Leger Fernandez for their tireless work, as well as the countless advocates who have shared their stories to achieve this necessary goal.\n\nThis fight is not over, and I look forward to the day where we can celebrate the necessary updates and commemorate those who did not live to see it.\u201d\n\nCrapo is a longtime Senate lead on expanding the RECA program. In 2022, Senator Crapo was successful in securing an extension of the RECA program for two years, allowing individuals more time to apply for compensation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-support-troops", "Crapo, Risch Support Troops", "2023-12-13", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\n\u201cThe men and women in America\u2019s military deserve a pay raise, especially given inflationary costs have skyrocketed their grocery and gas bills,\u201d said Crapo and Risch. \u201cThis defense authorization legislation not only provides this needed raise but it keeps American military readiness on track, reinstates border wall construction, removes woke liberal priorities in our Department of Defense, provides millions to Idaho and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent in a responsible fashion. Like most massive bills, this is far from perfect, but it will ensure our military is better equipped to protect our nation at a time when threats abound abroad.\u201d\n\nThe NDAA will:\n\nProvide a 5.2% pay raise for troops;\n\nFreeze Department of Defense (DoD) hires for Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI);\n\nLimit the salary of DoD DEI hires;\n\nRequire DoD to continue construction of the border wall;\n\nProhibit critical race theory (CRT) at DoD;\n\nCreate a new inspector general for Ukraine provision, which will build on existing oversight structure, establish a special inspector general for Ukraine oversight, and provide that office with a clear mandate and enhanced hiring authorities and resources;\n\nRequire the Air Force to develop a long-term fighter sustainment plan, which was based on the Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act authored by Crapo and supported by Risch;\n\nProvide $36.5 million for the Naval Reactors Facility Medical Science Complex in Idaho Falls;\n\nProvide more than $17 million for the Jerome County National Guard Readiness Center;\n\nProvide more than $440 million to the Idaho National Lab (INL);\n\nProvide $176.7 million funding for Project Pele, a mobile micro nuclear reactor pilot program on schedule for deployment to the INL by 2025;\n\nSupport research for composite alternatives to titanium, including thermoplastics at Funding Advanced Thermoplastics Composite (ATC) Manufacturing in Post Falls, Idaho;\n\nProvide funding for the Civil Air Patrol, which has a very active Idaho Wing; and\n\nDirect the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a nuclear fuel program with the purpose of onshoring nuclear fuel production. This will help eliminate U.S. reliance on Russian enriched uranium, which is needed for energy production and national security.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-colleagues-sound-the-alarm-on-rapidly-rising-cost-of-servicing-national-debt", "Crapo, Colleagues Sound the Alarm on Rapidly Rising Cost of Servicing National Debt", "2023-12-12", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined a group of Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) highlighting concerns with the rising cost of servicing the nearly $34 trillion national debt.\n\n\u201cDriven by out-of-control federal spending and rising interest rates, the U.S. spent $659 billion on servicing the federal debt in Fiscal Year 2023, a $184 billion increase from the previous year and nearly double the cost from just three years ago,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cSince March 2022, the Federal Reserve has raised interest rates eleven times, pursuing such an aggressive rate-hiking campaign in an effort to combat the out-of-control inflation that has hung over the U.S. economy for years as a result of trillions of dollars in reckless partisan spending passed by congressional Democrats and signed into law by President Biden. Future rate hikes and higher-for-longer rates are likely as elevated inflation remains a major concern for American households who continue to see the purchasing power of their wages erode.\u201d\n\nSenators Steve Daines (R-Montana), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Todd Young (R-Indiana) and James Lankford (R-Oklahoma) joined in sending the letter.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-join-colleagues-in-condemning-un-inaction-on-hamass-sexual-violence-against-women", "Crapo, Risch Join Colleagues in Condemning UN Inaction on Hamas's Sexual Violence Against Women", "2023-12-12", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington,D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Ben Cardin (D-Maryland) and 24 other colleagues in sending a letter condemning the inaction of the United Nations (UN) regarding Hamas\u2019s widespread sexual violence, including mass rape and mutilation, against women in Israel on October 7, 2023. The Senators urged UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to open an independent investigation into Hamas\u2019s acts of sexual violence and to hold the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women--the organization dedicated to ending gender-based violence--accountable for its failure to immediately and unequivocally condemn Hamas\u2019s atrocities against women.\n\n\u201cWe write to express our profound disappointment with the United Nations\u2019 (UN) response to Hamas\u2019s widespread sexual violence, including rape and mutilation, as a weapon of war against women in Israel on October 7, 2023,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cA growing body of evidence including the testimonies of survivors, witnesses, and first responders makes clear that as part of Hamas\u2019s terrorist attack that killed 1,200 men, women, and children on October 7, the terrorist organization intentionally used rape and sexual assault as weapons of war.\u201d\n\n\u201cSexual violence, particularly on this scale and of this level of brutality, must be condemned unequivocally and without qualification, which is why we were shocked that it took UN Women nearly two months to speak out against these atrocities,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201c... we urge you to move swiftly to seek the establishment of an independent fact-finding effort through a separate mechanism, tasked with collecting testimonies from survivors and witnesses of Hamas\u2019s sexual violence. An independent investigation is a necessary step to hold perpetrators accountable, support survivors, and provide justice for victims.\u201d\n\nJoining Crapo, Risch, Rosen, Ernst, Gillibrand, Collins and Cardin were Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Arizona), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Cory Booker (D-New Jersey), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee).\n\nFull text of the letter can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-senate-western-caucus-members-call-to-defund-biden-admins-ev-mandate", "Crapo, Risch, Senate Western Caucus Members Call to Defund Biden Admin\u2019s EV Mandate", "2023-12-08", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) joined 15 Senate Western Caucus members in sending a letter to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) urging Senate leadership to defund the Biden Administration\u2019s misguided electric vehicle (EV) rule, which would mandate more than two-thirds of all vehicles sold in the U.S. be fully electric by 2032. Defunding the EV mandate will protect the freedoms of the people in the West so they can continue to choose what car or truck they want to drive.\n\n\u201cWhile we are supportive of the free market producing electric vehicles to satisfy a market need, this misguided EPA mandate would have an immediate, detrimental impact on the choices and affordability of cars, trucks, and SUVs available to our constituents,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cIt also increases America\u2019s dependence on China.\u201d\n\nCrapo and Risch were joined in sending the letter by Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Dan Sullivan (R-Arkansas), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma) and Mitt Romney (R-Utah),\n\nClick here to read the full letter.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-and-wyden-report-legislative-text-from-finance-committee-health-care-markup", "Crapo and Wyden Report Legislative Text from Finance Committee Health Care Markup", "2023-12-07", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chairman Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) today announced that the Committee has reported legislation that was marked up in the committee in November. The \u201cBetter Mental Health Care, Lower-Cost Drugs, and Extenders Act\u201d addresses a number of important health care priorities in the committee\u2019s jurisdiction.\n\n\u201cThis legislative text represents the bipartisan health care priorities unanimously voted out of the Finance Committee, such as improving mental health care, taking on drug price middlemen, and preventing needless cuts to health services that Americans count on,\u201d Wyden said. \u201cI am optimistic that these policies, in addition to the committee\u2019s prior bipartisan work on health care can reach the president\u2019s desk this Congress.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan legislation will cut patient costs at the pharmacy counter, strengthen provider choice for seniors across the country and reverse warped incentives that currently favor higher-priced medications,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cIt accomplishes all of this without increasing the federal deficit. Taxpayers, consumers and community pharmacies deserve to see these bills passed by the full Congress as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\nThe legislation expands mental health care and substance use disorder services under Medicaid and Medicare, reduces prescription drug costs for seniors at the pharmacy counter, extends essential Medicaid and Medicare provisions that will expire this year, and increases Medicare payments to support physicians and other providers.\n\nLast month, the Finance Committee passed the proposal with a vote of 26-0.\n\nThe final reported legislative text can be found here. A section by section summary can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/senate-passes-resolution-to-strengthen-economic-ties-with-israel-with-crapo-support", "Senate Passes Resolution to Strengthen Economic Ties with Israel with Crapo Support", "2023-12-07", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a Senate Resolution that calls for the strengthening of economic ties between the U.S. and Israel. The resolution comes amid Israel\u2019s war against Hamas in response to the terrorist group\u2019s gruesome assault on Israel on October 7, which has stunted Israel\u2019s economy. U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) is an original co-sponsor of the Resolution.\n\n\u201cThe United States maintains a strong economic partnership with Israel,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cAs Israel continues to defend itself against barbaric Hamas terrorists, the Senate unanimously affirms that trade and investment between our countries is vital for the continued success of our economic ties. I firmly stand with Israel and will continue supporting its right to defend itself against those wishing to cause it harm.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement of 1985 has helped U.S.-Israel trade grow more than sevenfold since that year and serves as an important tool for supporting the Israeli economy during this time.\n\nIn 2022, American companies exported $14.2 billion in goods and $5.8 billion in services to Israel. Major exports included machinery, mechanical appliances, stone, glass, metals and chemicals.\n\nIsraeli companies exported $21.4 billion in goods and $9.2 billion in services to the U.S. last year.\n\nIsraeli companies\u2019 stock foreign direct investment in the U.S. was $10.6 billion in 2022, supporting more than 20,000 American jobs.\n\nCrapo is a strong supporter of Israel and this week also joined a number of colleagues raising concerns with the Biden Administration over the resurgence of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement on college campuses to economically harm Israel and threaten Israel\u2019s right to exist as a nation.\n\nView the resolutionhere.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-joins-budget-committee-republicans-in-urging-chairman-to-prioritize-fiscal-climate", "Crapo Joins Budget Committee Republicans in Urging Chairman to Prioritize Fiscal Climate", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Senate Budget Committee Republicans are urging Chairman Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) to convene a series of hearings examining policies to address the nation\u2019s looming economic challenges. In a letter signed by all committee Republicans, the Senators cite credit downgrades and independent analyses warning of the challenges presented by growing debt, deficit and interest obligations. The letter comes amid a barrage of warnings about the country\u2019s deteriorating fiscal health.\n\n\u201cUnder your chairmanship, the Senate Committee on the Budget has dedicated significant time and attention to climate issues, holding 12 separate hearings on climate change this year alone,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cWe implore you to direct the Committee\u2019s agenda to the impending budgetary and fiscal crisis facing our nation \u2013 issues at the heart of this committee\u2019s jurisdiction. There\u2019s no time to spare,\u201d\n\nThe letter comes after credit agencies Moody\u2019s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings downgraded outlooks on the United States\u2019 creditworthiness. A Penn Wharton Budget Model study also warned the window to take corrective fiscal action is closing rapidly, and once it closes, no amount of tax increases or spending cuts could avoid a government default.\n\nThe Senators propose initiating hearings with testimony from the U.S. Department of the Treasury Secretary, Congressional Budget Office Director and representatives from Fitch, Moody\u2019s and S&P Global Ratings.\n\n\u201cTough conversations on our nation\u2019s fiscal health need to be had to preserve our nation\u2019s economic strength. If we want to be the global leader in the economic marketplace, then we need to lead from the front with strong fiscal responsibility,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nThe letter was also signed by Budget Committee Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Senators Rick Scott (R-Florida), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana) and Mike Lee (R-Utah).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-cassidy-sound-alarm-on-resurgence-of-bds-movement-threatening-israels-right-to-exist", "Crapo, Risch, Cassidy Sound Alarm on Resurgence of BDS Movement Threatening Israel\u2019s Right to Exist", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana) and 12 Republican colleagues raised concerns with the Biden Administration over the resurgence of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement on college campuses to economically harm Israel and threaten Israel\u2019s right to exist as a nation. Additionally, the Senators raised the issue that Biden\u2019s 2022 environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) rule could empower left-wing activists to insert BDS policies into retirement plans, politicizing Americans\u2019 retirement savings with the intention of hurting Israel.\n\n\u201cWe are deeply concerned that, in this environment of unrest, there is likely to be a resurgence in the international Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which will be used to economically harm and delegitimize the state of Israel,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cAlthough student government resolutions are not binding, support for these initiatives can lead to a divisive atmosphere on campus.\u201d\n\nCoinciding with the rise in anti-Israel protests on college campuses, certain campus organizations have issued petitions calling for their college or university to support the BDS movement. For example, a news report indicates that Arizona State University\u2019s (ASU) chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) intends to deliver a petition calling on ASU to boycott Israel and divest from companies supporting the country. Similarly, Vassar College\u2019s SJP chapter staged a walkout on October 25, demanding that the college divest from weapons manufacturers arming Israel while publicizing its independent contractors\u2019 investments. They also urged the college to boycott two study abroad programs in Israel, and called for an end to the blockade and U.S. funds to Israel.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, if the sentiments expressed in these resolutions are shared by a college or university system\u2019s trustees, the institution\u2019s affirmation of a pro-BDS position would have very real consequences for Israel, a military and cultural ally,\u201d continued the Senators. \u201cThe American people must be confident that pension investors will not override the economic goals, or personal views, of beneficiaries to pursue their own political agenda.\u201d\n\nU.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama) and Katie Britt (R-Alabama) also signed the letter.\n\nLast year, the Biden Administration issued its final environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) rule that empowers asset managers to prioritize political ideology when considering investments for retirement plans. The Senators raised concerns that this policy would allow activist university trustees to weaponize Americans\u2019 retirement savings to target Israel and companies who do business with Israel.\n\nCrapo, Risch and Cassidy also urged the Biden Administration to use its enforcement power under Title VI to ensure colleges and universities uphold their responsibilities to maintain a safe learning environment for Jewish students.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-lahood-davis-call-on-hhs-to-guarantee-timely-and-transparent-approval-for-evidence-based-services-that-help-prevent-foster-care-placements", "Crapo, Wyden, LaHood, Davis Call on HHS to Guarantee Timely and Transparent Approval for Evidence-Based Services That Help Prevent Foster Care Placements", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chair Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), along with U.S. House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Worker and Family Support Chair Darin LaHood (R-Illinois) and Ranking Member Danny Davis (D-Illinois), called on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure the Title IV-E Prevent Services Clearinghouse approves evidence-based programs and services in a more transparent, timely and efficient manner, consistent with the intent of Congress when it passed the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA).\n\nTitle IV-E reimbursement for evidence-based interventions and programs \u2013 such as mental health and substance use disorder treatment, parenting skills and kinship navigator services \u2013 are essential to meeting a principal goal of FFPSA, which is to prevent foster care placements. In their letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, the members express their concern that states currently have a difficult time offering services that meet the needs of the children and families they serve because of the lack of Clearinghouse-approved interventions.\n\n\u201cCongress did not intend for the Clearinghouse to be an academic review process. Instead, Congress envisioned an entity that proactively reviewed the latest research and provided a wide variety of evidence-based intervention options that ensure states can invest in programs that are proven to support children and families, and best fit local needs. Despite this, a relatively small number of interventions have been reviewed, an even smaller number have been given a \u2018supported\u2019 or \u2018well-supported\u2019 designation, and outside stakeholders have reported that the process has been slow and opaque,\u201d the members wrote. \u201cAlthough the final decision on which interventions qualify for federal funding should be made by the Clearinghouse, we encourage [the Administration for Children and Families] to consider how the federal review process could be expedited for interventions that have received rigorous review by non-Federal clearinghouses. We also urge the Clearinghouse to proactively review interventions, similar to the HHS Home Visiting Evidence of Effectiveness clearinghouse.\u201d\n\nThe members also urged better communication and collaboration between the Clearinghouse and developers and researchers, citing concern that the Clearinghouse often rejects interventions without proper consultation with these experts.\n\n\u201cWe have received feedback that the Clearinghouse frequently makes decisions without giving study authors and developers the opportunity to gather relevant information in the decision-making process. In some cases, interventions have been rejected by the Clearinghouse because of the way the results were calculated, not because the results themselves failed to provide evidence of effectiveness,\u201d the members wrote.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-grassley-demand-changes-to-rule-endangering-safety-and-wellbeing-of-unaccompanied-alien-children", "Crapo, Risch, Grassley Demand Changes to Rule Endangering Safety and Wellbeing of Unaccompanied Alien Children", "2023-12-05", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) led 36 Senate Republicans in demanding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) overhaul its harmful and deficient policies governing the agency\u2019s treatment of unaccompanied immigrant children in the United States. The Proposed Rule--parts of which the agency is already enforcing--allows vulnerable children to be placed in the custody of unvetted, potentially criminal sponsors and obstructs whistleblowers from reporting to Congress on abuse in the program. The Senators are demanding ORR rewrite its policies or face congressional action to overturn the finalized rule.\n\n\u201cThis Proposed Rule ignores nearly seven years of oversight conducted by Congress and the Office of Inspector General and reveals chronic foot-dragging\u2014if not total reluctance\u2014when it comes to protecting vulnerable children,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cIt provides ample protections to government bureaucrats at the expense of children. Even more concerning, \u2018the requirements being [adopted] in this proposed rule are already enforced by [the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)].\u2019 . . . ORR does not even consider a sponsor\u2019s criminal record, current illegal drug use, history of abuse or neglect, or other child welfare concerns \u2018necessarily disqualifying to potential sponsorship.\u2019\u2026 In effect, ORR accepts a sponsor\u2019s representations almost entirely on face value.\u201d\n\n\u201cORR\u2019s Proposed Rule abdicates the agency\u2019s responsibility for protecting the vulnerable children in its custody from harmful behavior by poorly vetted, potential criminals. For these services, the taxpayer paid ORR $5.5 billion in FY2022. The Proposed Rule is wholly unworkable and ORR should discard it and its current practices. If not, Congress will have no choice but to introduce a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act,\u201d the Senators concluded.\n\nJoining Crapo, Risch and Grassley in sending the letter are U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Katie Boyd Britt (R-Alabama), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), John Thune (R-South Dakota), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-leads-letter-to-air-force-secretary-regarding-fleet-leveling-for-the-air-national-guard", "Crapo Leads Letter to Air Force Secretary Regarding Fleet Leveling for the Air National Guard", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) co-led a bipartisan, bicameral letter with U.S. Representative John James (R-Michigan), Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) and Representative Don Bacon (R-Nebraska), along with 47 other Members of Congress, including Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), to Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall regarding the critical importance of fleet leveling for the Air National Guard (ANG).\n\nFleet leveling would temporarily redistribute fighters across the Total Force to prevent the near-term closure of ANG squadrons while fighter procurement catches up. Fleet leveling is not a permanent fix, but a necessary stopgap to keep fighter squadrons open across the country during a time that the U.S. is facing threats from peer adversaries like China, Russia and Iran.\n\n\u201cFleet leveling is an efficient interim solution to the challenge facing the Air Force \u2013 how to deter China with both the capacity and capability of advanced fighters, given fiscal and production constraints,\u201d the letter reads. \u201cFleet leveling temporarily balances fighters across active duty, ANG, and AFRC squadrons to allow time for industry production capacity to catch up with demand. Most importantly, fleet leveling prevents the closure of fighter squadrons across the Total Force, thereby preserving critical capacity that would otherwise be forever lost.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the United States continues to face external threats from adversaries like Russia, China and Iran, it is more important than ever to maintain and protect National Guard fighter squadrons,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI am committed to working closely with the U.S. Air Force to preserve the critical role Air National Guard fighter units--like the Idaho National Guard\u2019s 190th Fighter Squadron--play in protecting our national security. Fleet leveling is the best interim solution to preserve readiness across the country.\u201d\n\nThe letter builds on Crapo\u2019s previous efforts to preserve the Air Force fighter force structure. In July, Crapo and Hickenlooper introduced the Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act, legislation to the prevent the closure of ANG fighter squadrons. Senators Risch and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) are also original co-sponsors of the legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-hagerty-demanding-answers-on-admins-taxpayer-funded-voter-mobilization-plans", "Crapo, Risch, Hagerty Demanding Answers on Admin\u2019s Taxpayer-Funded Voter Mobilization Plans", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee) sent a letter to President Biden regarding his failure to appropriately respond to concerns about an executive order that requires federal agencies to engage in voter mobilizations and the potential use of taxpayer dollars for these efforts. The Senators are raising alarm over Executive Order 14019 given it potentially violates the Antideficiency Act, which explicitly prohibits agencies from expending federal funds without Congressional authorization.\n\n\u201cWe are concerned by your failure to respond to our previous inquiry on May 10, 2023, regarding Executive Order 14019 on \u2018Promoting Access to Voting,\u2019\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cThis policy directive merits congressional oversight both as a general matter and under the Antideficiency Act. Accordingly, we write to reiterate our request for information regarding the implementation of this executive order, including copies of the plans submitted to the White House.\u201d\n\n\u201cFederal agencies should be focused on their defined missions in a nonpartisan manner, not using taxpayer funds for voter mobilization efforts with potentially partisan impacts,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cIn other words, it\u2019s not the job of the federal government to drive voter turnout.\u201d\n\nIn order to determine the voter mobilization and electioneering activities to which the Biden Administration has devoted taxpayer resources, the Senators once again requested that the Biden Administration provide the American people the following basic information:\n\nCopies of all federal agency \u201cstrategic plans\u201d required under the Order and a list of which agencies have not yet submitted a strategic plan;\n\nThe strategic plan required by the General Services Administration under the Order;\n\nThe recommendations provided by the Office of Personnel Management under the Order; and\n\nAll procedures established by the Attorney General under the Order.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-colleagues-urge-biden-administration-to-address-rising-rates-of-antisemitism-in-k-12-schools", "Crapo, Risch, Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Address Rising Rates of Antisemitism in K-12 Schools", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Department of Education (ED) has a responsibility to ensure schools that receive federal funds maintain a safe learning environment for students. While the administration has since announced new efforts to address antisemitism in schools, these actions do nothing to ensure schools are responsibly handling these events and working to prevent them in the first place. The senators urged the administration to use their enforcement power under Title VI to ensure K-12 schools are protecting Jewish students from harassment and maintaining a safe learning environment for all children.\n\n\u201cWe are deeply concerned that the Department of Education is not ensuring American K-12 schools are fostering a safe learning environment for all students following the terrorist organization Hamas\u2019 violent attack on civilians, including Americans and Israeli citizens,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201c . . . Parents should feel confident that their children\u2019s school will be safe and the focus will be on education. Instead, parents are beginning to fear that not only is school not safe for their students, but school officials are actively working to undermine the safety of their children. . . . Some schools seem unwilling or unable to uphold their legal obligations under Title VI. Therefore, the Department should use its full resources to enforce the law.\u201d\n\nSince the Hamas-led massacre against Israel on October 7th, there has been a disturbing rise in antisemitic incidents, including targeted harassment, directed at Jewish children in K-12 schools, including:\n\nThe Superintendent of Revere Public Schools in Massachusetts sending an email to school staff promoting resources that claimed, \u201cIsraeli terrorism has been significantly worse than that of the Palestinians.\u201d\n\nA New York City middle school teacher and United Federation of Teachers\u2019 (UFT) school representative sending an email to teachers\u2019 union members deriding the UFT\u2019s official statement denouncing the October 7 th attack and calling on the unions\u2019 retirement system to \u201cdivest from weapons and other companies that are complicit in violations of Palestinians\u2019 civil and land rights.\u201d\n\nAn 11-year-old in Manhattan Beach attack telling four Jewish girls at his school that \u201call Israelis and Jews should be killed.\u201d and\n\nStudents in San Francisco marching through the hallways of their high school chanting anti-Semitic slogans.\n\nCrapo and Risch are joined by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Katie Britt (R-Alaska), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Jeremy Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Dan Sullivan (R-Arkansas), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alaska) and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/32-bipartisan-senators-call-on-white-house-to-reverse-course-on-digital-trade-and-stand-up-to-china-support-american-workers-and-human-rights", "32 Bipartisan Senators Call on White House to Reverse Course on Digital Trade and Stand Up to China, Support American Workers and Human Rights", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chair Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) today called on President Biden to reaffirm America\u2019s global economic leadership by reversing a decision by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to abandon long-held positions at the World Trade Organization (WTO) that allow the free flow of information across borders, protect against the forced transfer of American technology and promote open markets for digital goods exported by American creators and businesses.\n\nIn addition to Crapo and Wyden, the letter is cosigned by Senators Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Budd (R-North Carolina), Cantwell (D-Washington), Capito (R-West Virginia), Cardin (D-Maryland), Carper (D-Delaware), Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Coons (D-Delaware), Cornyn (R-Texas), Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), Cramer (R-North Dakota), Cruz (R-Texas), Daines (R-Montana), Gillibrand (D-New York), Grassley (R-Iowa), Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Kaine (D-Virginia), Kelly (D-Arizona), King (I-Maine), Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Lummis (R-Wyoming), Murray (D-Washington), Padilla (D-California), Risch (R-Idaho), Rosen (D-Nevada), Sinema (I-Arizona), Tillis (R-North Carolina), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Van Hollen (D-Maryland) and Young (R-Indiana),\n\nFor nearly 30 years, the United States, along with democratic allies like the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Singapore, South Korea and others, have supported the internet and free information flows as an engine of innovation and economic growth and a bulwark against authoritarian regimes that seek to dominate international digital rules. Human rights and free expression advocates such as Freedom House raised concerns that USTR\u2019s decision to withdraw support for key positions, without offering any alternatives, gives China, Russia and other repressive regimes an opening to advance policies allowing greater surveillance and censorship. The U.S. creators, small businesses and major industries have also warned the USTR move will further China\u2019s model for digital protectionism and allow unfair trade practices targeting U.S. employers.\n\n\u201cThese commitments reflect bipartisan principles that, until now, the United States has strongly supported across political parties, administrations, and the federal government: an open internet that promotes the flow of information across borders to support American exports and American values. USTR\u2019s decision to abandon these commitments at the WTO creates a policy vacuum that China and Russia will fill,\u201d the senators wrote.\n\nThe WTO e-commerce negotiations have been supported by a wide range of American employers, including manufacturers, automakers, retailers, small businesses, creators in the film, music and book publishing industries, precision agriculture, logistics and semiconductor sectors.\n\nThe senators emphasized that the U.S. can and should advance regulations to protect Americans\u2019 privacy and security, and that the WTO principles involving data flows, intellectual property and unjustified data localization are compatible with smart regulation of tech and other industries.\n\n\u201cRetreating from our longstanding principles without offering a viable alternative does not help U.S. workers, it does not help U.S. consumers, it does not help U.S. businesses, and it does not help U.S. allies; it only helps our adversaries,\u201d they wrote.\n\nRead the full letter here\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-colleagues-demand-answers-from-biden-administration-on-latest-iran-sanctions-waiver", "Crapo, Colleagues Demand Answers from Biden Administration on Latest Iran Sanctions Waiver", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) and colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to encourage conducting needed oversight over the administration\u2019s lack of a cohesive Iran strategy given the recent decision to extend an Iran sanctions waiver. As Israel continues to battle Iranian-backed Hamas and the regime\u2019s proxies increase their attacks against U.S. personnel in the region, the Biden Administration on November 13 issued a waiver providing Iran access to approximately $10 billion.\n\n\u201cA strong signal of deterrence\u2014utilizing military, economic, and diplomatic tools\u2014is needed if we want to stop the attacks against U.S. personnel and prevent the war in Gaza from expanding into a protracted regional conflict. Unfortunately, the administration\u2019s military and economic responses to Iran and its proxies have not only been disproportionate, they appear to be completely disjointed,\u201d wrote the Senators. \u201cWe therefore request that your departments provide us with a classified assessment on the administration\u2019s plan to deter Iranian aggression and prevent the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. This assessment should include an estimation of how Iran has already leveraged\u2014and could in the future leverage\u2014against U.S. persons and interests the tens of billions in assets it now has access to due to your administration\u2019s use of U.S. sanctions waivers and is to be provided in a member or staff-level briefing no later than December 7, 2023.\u201d\n\nOn August 18, 2023, 26 Republican Senators demanded answers from the administration after it released approximately $6 billion in frozen assets to Iran in exchange for American prisoners.\n\nSenators Crapo and Scott are joined by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Katie Britt (R-Alaska), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska).\n\nRead the full letter here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/11/29/id-90a42015-362f-495d-a128-ced765477f8e/", "Fulcher and Other Northwest Lawmakers Request Additional Information on Package of Actions and Commitments To Determine the Future of the Lower Snake River Dams", "2023-11-29", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, November 29\n\nCONTACT: Marisa Melton, (208) 743 \u2013 1388, marisa.melton@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 Today, Russ Fulcher (ID-01) joined a group of Northwest lawmakers asking President Joe Biden for additional information on a \u201cpackage of actions and commitments\u201d the United States Government negotiated with plaintiffs, states, and tribes in ongoing litigation over Columbia River System Operations (CRSO).\n\nIn a letter to President Biden and administration officials, U.S. Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), and Russ Fulcher (ID-01) write:\n\n\u201cAs best we can tell, this document reflects the negotiating positions of the U.S. Government (USG) in the long-standing mediation concerning the Columbia River System Operations (CRSO). Due to the document\u2019s use of vague and imprecise language, it appears susceptible to misinterpretation.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is imperative that our constituents, whose livelihoods depend on the Columbia River System, have a comprehensive understanding of this document\u2019s contents so they can anticipate and prepare for the wide-ranging impacts that will inevitably be felt across the region should the commitments detailed in this document be realized,\u201d they continue. \u201cAdditionally, as Members of Congress representing the Pacific Northwest and tasked with oversight of the Executive Branch, it is our duty to ensure any actions committed to as part of this agreement do not circumvent by any means the congressional authorization that would be required to execute certain proposed provisions, such as the removal of certain dams.\u201d\n\nThroughout the letter, the lawmakers raise numerous questions about provisions in the document that require clarification from the Biden administration.\n\nOn how the agreement would establish the \u201cPacific Northwest Tribal Energy Program\u201d:\n\n\u2013 Why does this program apply to only four of the more than 40 federally recognized Tribes in the Pacific Northwest?\n\n\u2013 Does the USG seek to advance efforts to breach the Lower Snake River dams after securing this \u201creplacement\u201d power?\n\n\u2013 Will these actions reduce the independence of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) in effectuating ratemaking decisions, assessing its statutory responsibilities, and setting its rates? If so, what will be the impact to ratepayers in the region?\n\nOn how the document states that \u201c[t]he science is clear, and now so must be our path forward\u201d:\n\n\u2013 On what specifically is the science clear?\n\n\u2013 Did the USG rely on any additional scientific reports or studies, other than the NOAA report, which show categorically the science on salmon recovery in the Columbia River basin is clear? If so, why is this the only report cited by the USG in this document?\n\n\u2013 During the RFI process, was ample time and consideration given to peer-reviewed sources provided by stakeholders in the region?\n\n\u2013 According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), salmon face several health impacts from impaired water quality in the Puget Sound. Why is the USG relying on a report that does not take this and other factors that impact salmon runs into account?\n\n\u2013 Did the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) play a role at any stage in the development of the NOAA report? If so, please describe the nature of their involvement.\n\nOn the section of the document advancing an \u201curgent, comprehensive strategy to (a) restore salmon and steelhead to healthy and abundant levels\u201d:\n\n\u2013 How are the terms \u201chealthy and abundant\u201d defined?\n\n\u2013 What is the plan to fund the $200,000,000 commitment for the Phase 2 Implementation Plan for salmon reintroduction?\n\nOn determining \u201creplacement\u201d energy services for the Lower Snake River dams:\n\n\u2013 Will this \u201caccounting mechanism\u201d incorporate grid reliability, including the 24/7 baseload energy deployment potential these dams provide, as a factor in determining replacement energy services?\n\n\u2013 Will this accounting approach also solicit input from power providers in the region prior to the release of any guidance pertaining to the replacement of these resources?\n\nOn potentially breaching the four Lower Snake River dams:\n\n\u2013 Is your administration hoping the studies and actions funded by this report will substantiate enough \u201cevidence\u201d to undermine the economic viability of the hydroelectric system?\n\n\u2013 Is there any scenario that would lead your administration to proceed with breaching without express authorization from Congress?\n\n\u2013 Is it your official position at this point in time that these dams should ultimately be breached?\n\nOn securing appropriations to implement this package of actions and commitments:\n\n\u2013 Are appropriations from Congress being relied upon to fund any of the commitments contained in these Actions and Commitments, and if so, what specific commitments will appropriated funds be sought for?\n\n\u2013 Have there been consultations with any Members of Congress in drafting either this section or any of the other commitments made in the document? If so, have written assurances of authorizing appropriations of these funds been made?\n\n\u2013 What happens should the necessary \u201cauthorizations and appropriations\u201d not be secured?\n\nIn conclusion, the members write, \u201cwe respectfully request that a list of groups and individual voices that were included in the development of this package be provided so we can ensure it truly reflects what is in the best interest of the people we serve, as well as the marine populations it aims to protect. Furthermore, we have attached the \u2018package of commitments\u2019 to\n\nthis letter to assist you in providing us with answers to the questions presented above. It is crucial that clarity and certainty is provided so we can achieve our common goal of a durable, long-term strategy for the future of the CRSO.\u201d\n\nYou can read the full letter, which includes the package of commitments, by clicking HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-backs-legislation-to-prevent-federal-overreach-into-state-regulated-insurance-industry", "Crapo Backs Legislation to Prevent Federal Overreach into State-Regulated Insurance Industry", "2023-11-29", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, joined Senator Katie Britt (R-Alabama) and 15 additional Senate colleagues in introducing the Insurance Data Protection Act. This legislation would correct the Federal Insurance Office\u2019s (FIO) recent efforts to overstep into the state-regulated insurance industry, including its proposed \u201cClimate-Related Financial Risk Data Collection.\u201d\n\n\u201cIdaho consumers do not want the federal government to have unnecessary access to their sensitive personal data, and efforts to give the federal government more power to advance its leftist climate agenda by circumventing a functioning state-regulated industry is especially egregious,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cWe must ensure the state-regulated insurance market remains strong and will not increase burdensome data reporting that will drive up costs and threaten individuals\u2019 sensitive information.\u201d\n\nThe bill would eliminate the FIO Director\u2019s subpoena authority. FIO was created in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act with an explicit provision stating that the Office does not have general supervisory or regulatory authority over the business of insurance, which is supervised and regulated on a state-by-state basis across the United States. The legislation clarifies that FIO does not need subpoena power since it is intended to function as an informational body.\n\nAdditionally, the bill would require FIO to coordinate any data collection efforts with state insurance regulators and to assess all publicly available data and sources regarding the data being sought. These provisions would limit unnecessary data inquiries and prevent duplicative efforts across the state and federal landscapes.\n\nFinally, the bill sets forth confidentiality procedures and requirements governing the manner in which data can be used by financial regulators if collected from insurers. This would ensure consumers\u2019 information remains secure.\n\nAdditional co-sponsors include Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), and U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) and JD Vance (R-Ohio).\n\nThe National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Association for Independent Agents (Big I), and Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) have endorsed this legislation.\n\nThe text of the bill can be viewed HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nFIO is an office within the U.S. Department of the Treasury created in the Dodd Frank Act to monitor the insurance sector and help provide information to policymakers and state regulators, as needed, without regulatory authority.\n\nThe insurance industry has been effectively regulated at the state--not federal--level for over a century.\n\nDespite being created to serve solely as an informational body in support of state regulators, the Biden Administration has pressured FIO to overstep into the state-regulated insurance industry, including by issuing a \u201cClimate-Related Financial Risk Data Collection\u201d in October 2022.\n\nThis was requested in the President\u2019s climate executive order, and would require over 200 private insurance companies (over 70 percent of the homeowners\u2019 insurance market) to provide to FIO highly-detailed data (broken down by zip code) regarding the effect of climate-related catastrophes on insurance availability and affordability for Americans. On November 1st, Treasury announced its intention to move ahead with this data call.\n\nThe data call is costly, onerous and duplicative as insurance carriers already report statewide data to their state regulators.\n\nFIO provided no information in its proposal as to how the data provided would be kept secure or with whom it would be shared.\n\nFIO also demonstrated no intention of coordinating these efforts with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and state regulators, which is required under Title V of Dodd Frank.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-daines-caution-biden-admin-that-one-sided-dam-breaching-effort-doomed-to-fail", "Crapo, Risch, Daines Caution Biden Admin that One-Sided Dam Breaching Effort Doomed to Fail", "2023-11-21", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Steve Daines (R-Montana) today sent a letter to President Biden voicing severe concerns regarding the Administration\u2019s efforts to breach the lower Snake River dams.\n\nThe effort, outlined in September in the \u201cMemorandum on Restoring Healthy and Abundant Salmon, Steelhead, and Other Native Fish Populations in the Columbia River Basin,\u201d highlighted the goal of salmon restoration. However, the memo ignores Congressional authority over the dams, scientific data that supports the current state of the dams, the views of regional partners, and the affects it will have on constituents.\n\n\u201cCongress \u2013 and Congress alone \u2013 can change the authorized purposes of federal dams and determine their future. Recent history has shown repeatedly that Congress is unwilling to drastically alter the operations of the Columbia River system or remove the lower Snake River dams,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201c. . . Recent salmon return numbers underscore that the policies implemented by past administrations\u2014Democrat and Republican\u2014are working.\u201d\n\n\u201cRather than focusing attention on controversial proposals that won\u2019t be implemented by Congress or plans that have buy-in from only a limited portion of those who rely on the river system, we urge you to return to efforts that build on regional consensus, are grounded in science, and can be supported and implemented by Congress,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-demand-answers-to-biden-administrations-unprecedented-pause-of-firearms-export-licenses", "Crapo, Risch Demand Answers to Biden Administration\u2019s Unprecedented Pause of Firearms Export Licenses", "2023-11-17", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) joined Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina) and 43 other Senators in a letter to Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce Gina Raimondo raising questions over the decision to pause for 90 days the issuance of export licenses for firearms, ammunition and certain accessories to most overseas markets. The decision was announced last month by the Bureau of Industry and Security. This unprecedented move is the latest chapter in the Biden Administration\u2019s hostility toward America\u2019s firearms industry.\n\nThe letter notes the impact this pause could have on \u201cU.S. commercial and economic interests\u201d which according to the firearms and ammunition industry has an estimated \u201cdirect cost of at least $89 million associated with the 90 day pause and at least $238 million annually should the pause become permanent.\u201d\n\n\u201c[F]irearms exports to non-government users in countries not covered by the exception constitute a significant percentage of overall U.S. firearm exports,\u201d the letter reads. \u201cThis pause puts at stake U.S. commercial and economic interests, as well as those business interests of firearm exporters whose pending exports are now subject to pause, in addition to U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.\u201d\n\nCiting \u201csignificant concerns about the justifications for and ramifications of this pause\u201d and concerns that the \u201cunmet demand created by this action will promote opportunities for less scrupulous, professional, or conscientious sources of supply to fill the void, thereby strengthening illicit arms markets,\u201d the Senators are demanding a response to their inquiry by no later than November 30.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-fulcher-file-supreme-court-brief-challenging-to-fda-chemical-abortion-actions", "Crapo, Risch, Fulcher File Supreme Court Brief Challenging FDA Chemical Abortion Actions", "2023-11-17", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. --U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and U.S. Representative Russ Fulcher (all R-Idaho) filed an amicus brief in opposition to the Biden Administration\u2019s efforts to increase access to chemical abortions. The brief encourages the U.S. Supreme Court to consider initial \u201capproval irregularities\u201d by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in its 2000 approval of chemical abortion drugs.\n\n\u201cAs pro-life elected representatives, [we] are committed to protecting women and girls from the harms of the abortion industry. By approving and then deregulating chemical abortion drugs, the FDA failed to follow Congress\u2019 statutorily prescribed drug approval process and subverted Congress\u2019 critical public policy interests in upholding patient welfare,\u201d the brief stated.\n\n\u201c[We] support the Fifth Circuit\u2019s reinstatement of common-sense patient safeguards, which include in-person dispensing of mifepristone as well as an in-person follow-up examination to ensure a woman has not suffered complications or retained fetal tissue. Accordingly, [we] support Cross-Petitioners\u2019 opposition to the FDA and Danco\u2019s petitions for a writ of certiorari, which have asked this Court to reconsider patient safeguards that protect women and girls seeking chemical abortion drugs,\u201d the brief continued.\n\nSeventeen U.S. Senators and 92 members of the House of Representatives signed the amicus brief authored by Americans United for Life (AUL). The brief supports Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine\u2019s Conditional Cross Petition. The cross petition asks the Supreme Court to consider the FDA\u2019s 2000 drug approval should the Court decide to hear challenges to a Fifth Circuit Court stay of the FDA\u2019s 2016 and 2021 actions to broaden access to chemical abortion drugs.\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 brief argues that the FDA exceeded its Subpart H authority by approving mifepristone and the FDA\u2019s approval of mifepristone subverted patient health and safety safeguards within federal laws.\n\nIn addition to Crapo, Risch and Fulcher, the amicus brief was signed by U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Rick Scott (R-Florida), John Barrasso, M.D. (R-Wyoming) and 91 members of the House of Representatives.\n\nOrganizations supporting the brief include Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, March for Life, Students for Life of America, National Right to Life, Live Action and CatholicVote.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-colleagues-author-bill-to-lower-broadband-costs-boost-connectivity-for-rural-and-tribal-areas", "Crapo, Colleagues Author Bill to Lower Broadband Costs, Boost Connectivity for Rural and Tribal Areas", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) and Mark Kelly (D-Arizona) to introduce the Lowering Broadband Costs for Consumers Act of 2023 to direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to require proper contributions to the Universal Service Fund (USF) from edge providers and broadband providers. Requiring edge providers to cover associated costs for rural fiber networks will reduce the financial burden on consumers and rural providers while strengthening broadband connectivity throughout rural America.\n\n\"Idahoans rely heavily upon broadband technology for business, government and personal activities,\" said Crapo. \"This legislation expands on efforts to address the 'digital divide' in broadband deployment between rural and urban or suburban areas to ensure communities, regardless of size, can access the necessary connectivity for modern life.\"\n\n\u201cFair contributions to the USF from edge providers are long overdue,\u201d said Mullin. \u201cVideo streaming services account for 75 percent of all traffic on rural broadband networks. However, unrecovered costs from streaming companies are often shifted and borne by small rural broadband providers. Available, affordable internet will close the digital divide and increase telehealth, educational, and employment opportunities for those who previously went without. Rural Oklahomans deserve the same connectivity as those living in urban areas.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Universal Service Fund helps Arizonans in rural and low-income communities get access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet, but right now, large internet companies that profit from that expanded internet access don\u2019t contribute their fair share,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cOur legislation will lower the cost of high-speed internet for consumers and rural providers and expand broadband connectivity throughout Arizona.\u201d\n\nThe Lowering Broadband Costs for Consumers Act would:\n\nDirect the FCC to reform the USF by expanding the base so that edge providers and broadband providers contribute on an equitable and nondiscriminatory basis to preserve and advance universal service.\n\nLimit assessments of edge providers to only those with more than 3% of the estimated quantity of broadband data transmitted in the United States and more than $5 billion in annual revenue.\n\nDirect the FCC to adopt a new mechanism under the current USF high-cost program to provide specific, predictable, and sufficient support for expenses incurred by broadband providers that are not otherwise recovered.\n\nLimit the FCC\u2019s authority over edge providers and broadband providers only to requiring contributions to the USF.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-senators-joint-statement-on-another-continuing-resolution", "Idaho Senators\u2019 Joint Statement on Another Continuing Resolution", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) released the following statement after voting against another Continuing Resolution:\n\n\u201cWe absolutely stand against shutting down the federal government, but we also oppose continually kicking the can down the road on government funding and allowing Democrats\u2019 spending levels to continue for another month\u2014let alone two,\u201d said Crapo and Risch. \u201cEach Continuing Resolution is just a bandaid on a long-term unwillingness to address our growing fiscal crisis. The Senate Appropriations Committee has already advanced all 12 individual appropriations bills out of the Committee. It is not fair to Idahoans to allow the federal government to repeatedly fail to execute its duty to pass these bills annually.\u201d\n\nThe Continuing Resolution funds the government through two separate deadlines of January 19, 2024, and February 2, 2024. The measure passed the Senate 87-11.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-colleagues-to-biden-tackle-fentanyl-crisis-during-meeting-with-xi", "Crapo, Colleagues to Biden: Tackle Fentanyl Crisis During Meeting with Xi", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota) and six additional colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to President Joe Biden ahead of his meeting with President Xi Jinping of the People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC). In their letter, the Senators focus on the devastating impact of fentanyl in the United States and the PRC\u2019s role in the fentanyl supply chain. The letter calls on President Biden to urge President Xi to do more to stop the flow of precursor chemicals that are sent from the PRC to Mexico. These chemicals are used to manufacture deadly drugs, which are then trafficked across our southern border. From 2020 to 2021, the number of primarily fentanyl-related deaths in the United States increased by 24.1 percent, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.\n\n\u201cIt is evident that the PRC plays a significant role in the production of fentanyl making its way into our country; contributing to the alarming rates of addiction and fatal overdoses across the United States,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\nThe Senators\u2019 letter continued, \u201cBeyond supplying the chemicals to produce the deadly drug, businesses in the PRC are also assisting Mexican transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) in laundering the money that comes from selling the illicit drugs in the United States.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is our understanding it is not only a priority of the United States to minimize the PRC\u2019s involvement in the fentanyl supply chain, as even Mexico has urged President Xi to stop the flow of fentanyl,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cIf Mexican TCOs have a large portion of their supply chain effectively cut off by the PRC, it is likely we will see a drastic drop in illicit fentanyl being trafficked across our southern border and killing vulnerable Americans.\u201d\n\nSenators Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Angus King (I-Maine), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) also signed the letter.\n\nRead the full letter HERE or below.\n\n_______\n\nDear President Biden,\n\nThe devastating impact of the fentanyl epidemic on our communities and families cannot be overstated. We strongly request that you urge President Xi Jinping, in this week\u2019s meeting, to take decisive action in curbing the production and export of fentanyl-producing precursor chemicals from the Peoples Republic of China (PRC).\n\nIt is evident that the PRC plays a significant role in the production of fentanyl making its way into our country; contributing to the alarming rates of addiction and fatal overdoses across the United States. Prior to 2019, the PRC was the world\u2019s primary source of fentanyl until the substance was effectively banned. Despite the prohibition on producing fentanyl itself, pharmaceutical labs in the PRC still profit from the drug through the development and sale of precursor chemicals that are used to make fentanyl. Beyond supplying the chemicals to produce the deadly drug, businesses in the PRC are also assisting Mexican transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) in laundering the money that comes from selling the illicit drugs in the United States.\n\nDespite many of the precursor chemicals being technically legal to sell, it is clear the PRC can do much more to adequately regulate the businesses that sell these chemicals to eager buyers. For example, responsible sellers in the chemical industry typically implement required identity checks of those who are attempting to buy their product. According to a former DEA agent, \u201c\u2026 to sell non-listed chemicals, a good-faith seller would normally ask a buyer about the intended use of the compound and whether the buyer had the backing of a company or institution, such as a research organization or university.\u201d It is clear PRC companies are not voluntarily inquiring about the potential nefarious uses of their products when they are selling to international buyers. As such, there is undoubtedly more oversight the PRC can be conducting to make certain these precursor chemicals do not end up in the hands of illegal drug manufacturers.\n\nAs we all understand, tackling this crisis will require a multifaceted approach, and a crucial element is holding those responsible accountable. Addressing the role of the PRC in the fentanyl trade is paramount to our collective efforts in combating this epidemic. It is our understanding it is not only a priority of the United States to minimize the PRC\u2019s involvement in the fentanyl supply chain, as even Mexico has urged President Xi to stop the flow of fentanyl. If Mexican TCOs have a large portion of their supply chain effectively cut off by the PRC, it is likely we will see a drastic drop in illicit fentanyl being trafficked across our southern border and killing vulnerable Americans.\n\nFrom 2020 to 2021, the number of primarily fentanyl-related deaths in the United States increased by 24.1 percent, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 26.1 out of 100,000 deaths in the United States are related to fentanyl up from 5.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2016. With each passing day, our nation\u2019s fentanyl crisis continues to intensify, with no end in sight without prompt action from our Chinese counterparts. We strongly urge you to use this opportunity to implore President Xi to finally put an end to the manufacturing of illicit fentanyl and hold the PRC accountable for its role in contributing to the fentanyl crisis.\n\nThank you for your attention to this very important matter, and we look forward to your timely response and action.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-boost-exports-of-fruit-vegetables-nuts-and-other-specialty-crops", "Crapo, Wyden Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Exports of Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts and Other Specialty Crops", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chair Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) introduced legislation today to help farmers fight through trade barriers and sell more fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops in foreign markets. Representatives David Valadao (R-California), Elissa Slotkin (R-Michigan) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-Oregon) will introduce the House companion legislation.\n\nThe Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act) responds to continued high tariffs, burdensome labeling requirements and other trade barriers that restrict U.S. products from accessing foreign markets, threatening rural communities and agricultural producers who depend on customers overseas.\n\n\u201cFrom high tariffs to onerous labeling requirements, America\u2019s specialty crop growers face a range of barriers imposed by foreign nations that hinder their ability to export their high-quality products around the world,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cImproving the USDA\u2019s Specialty Crop Report will arm producers and trade negotiators with detailed and up-to-date information, helping break down longstanding trade barriers, diversify export markets and expand export opportunities for Idaho\u2019s specialty crop producers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe world is hungry for grown-in-the-U.S. blueberries, potatoes, wine and other produce. But all too often our farmers and producers are stymied by unreasonable blockades in foreign markets,\u201d said Wyden. \u201cOur bipartisan bill will help rural Americans by identifying unfair foreign trade barriers and creating specific plans to cut through that red tape.\u201d\n\nThe bill is cosponsored by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Angus King (I-Maine).\n\n\u201cSpecialty crop producers in California have faced many challenges over the last few years\u2014from supply chain backlogs at our ports, rising input costs, labor shortages, and drought,\u201d said Valadao. \u201cMany of our California-grown specialty crops rely on customers overseas, but too often face unfair trade barriers that make it difficult to stay competitive. This bill will better identify trade obstacles so that American-grown specialty crops have fair access to foreign markets.\u201d\n\n\u201cSpecialty crops\u2014fruits, vegetables, nuts, and more\u2014are vital to Michigan\u2019s economy and to the livelihoods of the farmers that grow them,\u201d said Slotkin. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m co-leading the Specialty CROP Act. This bipartisan bill will help growers access foreign markets, while also analyzing potential barriers to success\u2014a straightforward, common-sense step that will support our agriculture community.\u201d\n\n\u201cOregon is world famous for our specialty crops, and products like blueberries and hazelnuts make up a significant portion of our state's export economy. Unfortunately, growers face many barriers to foreign markets, which limit their competitiveness,\u201d said Bonamici. \u201cThe Specialty CROP Act will improve the USDA\u2019s existing specialty crops trade report to better translate its findings into meaningful action and policy. I\u2019m pleased to introduce this important bipartisan legislation with Senator Wyden and several colleagues in the House and Senate.\u201d\n\nThe legislation will help farmers by making key improvements to the annual U.S. Specialty Crops Trade Issues Report, in order to more effectively identify and combat unreasonable trade barriers, including to:\n\nExplicitly require participation and engagement from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR);\n\nHighlight specific trade barriers that limit the export competitiveness of specialty crops in specific markets, including tariff and non-tariff barriers;\n\nInclude an assessment of whether each trade barrier is subject to a U.S. FTA or international agreement;\n\nInclude specific information with respect to actions taken, or expected to be taken, by the U.S. government to address or resolve each trade barrier; and\n\nRequire a request for comment from both the public and the Agricultural Trade Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Fruits and Vegetables.\n\nRequire the report to be made public, while allowing for a classified annex in order to protect U.S. national security and economic strategy.\n\nContinue to define \u201cspecialty crop\u201d as \u201cfruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.\u201d\n\nStatements of Support\n\n\u201cU.S. specialty crops are increasingly challenged in foreign markets by creative protectionist tariff and non-tariff barriers. The legislation championed by Senators Wyden and Crapo seeks to call out and identify remedies for these impediments as a first step in eliminating them on behalf of U.S. family farmers. We strongly support this commonsense effort to level the playing field,\u201d said Kam Quarles, Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance Co-chair and National Potato Council CEO.\n\n\u201cMaintaining and expanding access to overseas markets is critical for apple, cherry, and pear growers in the Pacific Northwest. The legislation introduced by Senators Wyden and Crapo will help us understand the trade barriers in export markets and identify solutions to ensure growers remain competitive around the world,\u201d said Mark Powers, President, Northwest Horticultural Council.\n\n\"The North American Blueberry Council applauds Senators Wyden and Crapo for introducing the \u2018Expanding Agricultural Exports Act.\u2019 The global demand for blueberries continues to increase year-over-year. However, technical barriers and high tariff rates put U.S. blueberry producers at a competitive disadvantage in key export markets. This bill will not only help identify specific barriers affecting specialty crops, but also encourage productive engagement between the industry, Administration, and Congress on real solutions that will drive the growth of U.S. specialty crop exports,\u201d said Kasey Cronquist, President, North American Blueberry Council.\n\nRead the text of the legislation here.\n\nRead a one-page summary of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/39-senators-call-on-biden-administration-to-withdraw-basel-iii-endgame", "39 Senators Call on Biden Administration to Withdraw Basel III Endgame", "2023-11-13", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) in sending a letter with 37 colleagues urging the Federal Reserve (Fed), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to withdraw the Basel III Endgame proposal. The Committee is set to hear testimony from the financial regulators tomorrow, where Republicans will press the regulators on their many burdensome regulations that fail to consider the downstream impacts on everyday Americans, including the Basel III Endgame proposal.\n\nIn a letter to the Fed, FDIC and OCC, the signers argue the proposal lacks proper analysis or data to justify its merit, will result in costlier and more limited access to credit for Americans, and will negatively impact the U.S. economy. The letter also highlights the resilience of the well-capitalized U.S. banking system, and the need for changes in regulation to be tailored and based on demonstrable benefits and needs, not pre-determined agendas.\n\nEvery Republican member of the Senate Banking Committee signed the letter including Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota) and Steve Daines (R-Montana). Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), John Thune (R-South Dakota), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), James Risch (R-Idaho), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) also signed onto the letter.\n\nIn the letter, the senators write, \u201cUltimately, these large increases in capital have not been shown to be evidentially based as the Federal Reserve, FDIC, and OCC have failed to provide proper analysis or data to justify their merits, particularly around the costs they will impose throughout all sectors of the economy. In fact, we have heard widespread concerns regarding the negative impacts that Basel III could have not only on affordable housing but on mortgage lending writ large, small business lending, and consumer lending. In addition, it would limit the availability of access to credit cards and home equity lines of credit. Similarly concerning, this proposal will ultimately put U.S. companies at a competitive disadvantage globally and could force U.S. companies to search for access to financial services from financial institutions abroad, rather than those here at home. Moreover, the proposal disproportionately harms companies that are not publicly listed, who happen to be middle market, private entities, and our millions of small businesses across the country. Each of these potential consequences would have major ramifications alone, but taken in totality, they pose significant harm throughout the economy, particularly in the face of current economic headwinds and tightening credit conditions.\u201d\n\nThe senators continue, \u201cWhile we appreciate that the Federal Reserve, FDIC, and OCC have extended the initial comment period and are now conducting a data collection, it is too little, too late. A thorough cost benefit analysis is critical to ensuring that our regulatory regime is based on sound quantitative analysis and should have been conducted well before releasing the Basel III proposal. As with all regulations, the burdens must be justified and should not outweigh the benefits\u2026 While we heard for many months from Vice Chair Barr that the Federal Reserve was engaged in a holistic review of capital standards, the results of that review have never been publicly disclosed outside of a speech by the Vice Chair summarizing the results.\u201d\n\nThe senators conclude, \u201c\u2026 any proposed changes to our bank regulatory framework must be based on demonstrable benefits and needs, not pre-determined agendas which will only serve to harm the economy and consumers alike. Accordingly, we urge you to withdraw the Basel III Endgame proposal as written and urge the Federal Reserve, the FDIC, and the OCC to operate in a more transparent and justified manner.\u201d\n\nTo read the full letter, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-colleagues-urge-un-to-designate-hamas-a-terrorist-organization-and-impose-sanctions", "Crapo, Colleagues Urge UN to Designate Hamas a Terrorist Organization and Impose Sanctions", "2023-11-13", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senate colleagues in sending a letter to the United States Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) urging her to bring forward a resolution to designate Iranian-backed Hamas as a terrorist organization following the brutal terrorist attacks on Israel since October 7 with the intent to eradicate Israel and the Jews in Israel.\n\n\u201cRecent events have demonstrated that Hamas\u2019 actions, tactics, and stated goals are in many ways indistinguishable from Al Qaeda, ISIS, and other terrorist organizations the United Nations has sanctioned. Therefore, we write to urge you to bring a resolution to the UN Security Council recognizing and imposing sanctions on Hamas as a terrorist organization,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\n\u201cSince October 1997, the US Department of Treasury has designated Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Additionally, these groups have been listed as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) since October 2001. Numerous other countries and international entities rightfully have designated Hamas as a terrorist organization, including Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, Israel, the Organization of American States, Paraguay, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Switzerland is also actively exploring legal avenues to designate Hamas as a terrorist entity,\u201d they concluded.\n\nThe letter is led by Senators James Lankford (R-Oklahoma) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), co-chairs and co-founders of the Abraham Accords Caucus and Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, of which Senator Crapo is a member. Joining Crapo, Lankford and Rosen in sending the letter were Senators Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Arizona), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Cory Booker (D-New Jersey), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Thom Tills (R-North Carolina), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Dan Sullivan (R-Arkansas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania), Marco Rubio (R-Florida) and Alex Padilla (D-California).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-republicans-press-irs-on-data-security-shortcomings", "Finance Committee Republicans Press IRS on Data Security Shortcomings", "2023-11-13", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--In the wake of continued oversight reports revealing serious data security concerns at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the recent indictment of an IRS consultant for the disclosure of private individuals\u2019 tax information, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Republicans, led by Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), called on the IRS for greater accountability, transparency and a detailed explanation of specific steps it is taking to address security weaknesses at the agency.\n\nFrom the letter:\n\nPreventing illegal access and disclosure of protected taxpayer data is an essential IRS responsibility, one of its highest priorities and one that is statutorily enshrined in the taxpayer\u2019s bill of rights. Unfortunately, it is also one that has been disregarded for far too long.\n\n\u2026\n\nThe IRS must take responsibility and account for failures in these duties. As part of this, we call upon the IRS to provide a detailed explanation of: the specific steps it has taken since the beginning of this year to address any security weaknesses; a timeline of when each such step was taken; the current status of each recommendation made by TIGTA or GAO related to data and/or IRS system security since January 2020; the next steps and expected timeline for the IRS to address any open recommendations; and all specific actions the IRS has taken or will take to make impacted individuals whole.\n\nFor years, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) and Government Accountability Office (GAO) have pointed to significant, unaddressed flaws in the IRS\u2019s data security systems and practices. Most recently:\n\nIn an October 11, 2023 report on \u201cMajor Management Challenges\u201d for the IRS for 2024, TIGTA identifies \u201cProtection of Taxpayer Data and IRS Resources\u201d as one of the IRS\u2019s \u201ctop management and performance challenges.\u201d\n\nIn an October 24, 2023 report on \u201clongstanding challenges\u201d at the IRS, the GAO notes the IRS \u201chas struggled with longstanding challenges in . . . safeguarding sensitive information,\u201d with diverse issues still unresolved.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nRead more:\n\nCrapo Statement on DOJ Charging IRS Consultant with Disclosing Tax Return Information\n\nGovernment Watchdog Says IRS Needs to Address Critical Safeguard Weaknesses\n\nCrapo Requests Review of IRS Data Security\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/16-idaho-veterans-and-volunteers-to-receive-crapos-spirit-of-freedom-award", "16 Idaho Veterans and Volunteers to Receive Crapo\u2019s Spirit of Freedom Award", "2023-11-11", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo recognized 16 Idahoans with the 2023 Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award. Senator Crapo created the award in 2002 to recognize Idaho veterans and volunteers for their outstanding service to our country and its veterans. Since the award\u2019s creation 21 years ago, 387 Spirit of Freedom Awards have been bestowed.\n\n\u201cMany Idahoans dedicate their time, efforts and resources to supporting and caring for our nation\u2019s heroes once they return to civilian life,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI thank this year\u2019s award recipients for their caring hearts and devotion to serving the Idaho veterans community. We must continue to show our gratitude to the men and women who bravely served our country.\u201d\n\nSubmissions for the 2024 Spirit of Freedom Service Award can be made by contacting Courtney Lehosit in Crapo\u2019s Boise office. The following biographies for each of the recipients highlight their significant contributions to our country and its veterans.\n\nVeterans:\n\nBruce Schofield, Boise: Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4000 in Meridian nominated Schofield, a 26-year veteran of the United States Air Force. Born in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Schofield reached the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, having served at Itazuke Air Base in Japan; Nha Trang, Vietnam; and Royal Air Force Lakenheath. For his service, he received a number of awards and medals, including Good Conduct Medals, a Presidential Unit Citation and a Vietnam Service Medal, among others. Schofield retired from the Air Force in 1979, moving to Idaho shortly thereafter. He worked in communications and navigation for the National Interagency Fire Center and later repaired weather stations for a total of 21 years. Schofield loves to volunteer and was recently recognized by St. Luke\u2019s Treasure Valley for his 8,000 hours of volunteer service in shuttling patients to and from the hospital to their vehicles, as well as ensuring an abundance of supplies for patients in pool therapy. He spends many hours visiting veterans through Keystone Hospice. Schofield has one son and two grandsons.\n\nFrank Ellsbury, Caldwell: \u201cWhen there is a need, Frank is always the first to volunteer and last to leave,\u201d wrote Ned Barker of the Idaho Military Order of the Purple Heart, the nominating organization for Frank Ellsbury. Ellsbury served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and carried out two tours in Vietnam. During his service, he received a Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, among other awards and recognitions. Following his service, Ellsbury worked for the Centennial Job Corps, taught pain management at the Boise U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VA) and spent 50 years as a Veterans Court mentor coordinator. Ellsbury volunteers with Chapter 509 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and with the Caldwell Veterans Garden. Ellsbury and his wife, Judy, have two daughters.\n\nJames Peterson, Twin Falls: American Legion Post 47 nominated James Peterson. Born in Arcata, California, Peterson served in the United States Air Force from December 1960 to May 1964 on the special weapons team at the Itazuke Air Force Base in Japan, rising to the rank of E-3 Airman Second Class. He received the Air Force Good Conduct Medal during his tenure. Peterson has been a member of the Filer American Legion Post 47 for 30 continuous years, having served in various leadership positions including Sergeant at Arms and Commander. He is also a life member of the Twin Falls VFW and long-time member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Peterson has been actively involved with his community in assisting those in need by providing and delivering meals through the Meals on Wheels Program with the Filer Senior Center. After military service, Peterson worked for Pacific Bell telephone company for 28 years. He was a certified Civilian Pilot and has an extensive collection of World War I and World War II military weapons. Peterson has been married to his wife, Rita, for over 57 years. They have two daughters, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.\n\nJon Osburn, Boise: Nominated by the Idaho Veterans Assistance League, Jon Osburn is a veteran of the Army National Guard and the U.S. Navy. He served as a hospital corpsman. Following his military service, Osburn was a Paramedic for 17 years and a driver for Mayflower Transit for 20 years, as well as a driver for the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. The TravelCenters of America truck stop in Boise is named in his honor. He met his wife, Vicki, on a blind date, saying it was love at first sight.\n\nLeonard A. Crosby III, Post Falls: Nominated by the Idaho Military Order of the Purple Heart, Leonard A. Crosby III was born in Morganfield, Kentucky. He served from 1964 through 1970 as a Captain in the United States Army. He served as an Infantry Platoon Leader with the 4th Infantry Division and as Infantry Company Commander with the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army. He also served in the 5th Army Headquarters. Crosby received numerous medals and awards for his service. They include the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars for Valor, two Purple Hearts, an Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Ranger Tab, Air Assault Badge and Combat Medic\u2019s Badge. After his military service, he worked more than 45 years in real estate development and commercial banking, having served in a number of leadership positions with national and international companies. Crosby is actively involved in his local Idaho community as a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the Military Officers Association of America, Idaho Veterans Assistance League, American Legion Honor Guard, Kootenai County Veterans Commission, American Legion Post 154, Disabled American Veterans, as well as a number of others. He and his wife, Mary, have two sons and two grandchildren.\n\nRichard LeMaster, Lewiston: The Idaho State Veterans Home \u2013 Lewiston nominated U.S. Navy Veteran Richard LeMaster. A native of San Diego, California, LeMaster served in the U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1973, rising to the rank of E-6, Petty Officer First Class. He was a submarine sonar technician during the Vietnam War, having been stationed in San Diego, Pearl Harbor, Japan and the Philippine Islands. Throughout his service, LeMaster received a Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medial, National Defense Service Medal and a Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars. Following his military service, LeMaster learned to weld in Seattle, Washington, and put his new skill to work in Tacoma, working for Martinac Shipbuilding manufacturing tuna boats. He also taught welding night courses at Tacoma Community College until his retirement. Living in close quarters on submarines shaped LeMaster into who he is today and taught him \u201cto be tolerant and happy above all else,\u201d and \u201cto focus on what is important and to make the best of any situation.\u201d He recently celebrated his 52nd anniversary with his wife, Shirley. They have three children, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.\n\nThor Gunderson, Pocatello: Born in San Diego, California, Thor Gunderson served in the U.S. Navy from 1974 to 1994, retiring as an E-8 Senior Chief Petty Officer. He served in the Explosion Ordinance Disposal Mobile Unit 1 at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. For his service, Gunderson received a Sea Service Ribbon, Navy \u201cE\u201d Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Master EOD Badge, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and five Good Conduct Medals. Following his military service, he worked for UXB and Union Pacific Railroad. He was married to his wife, Bobbie, for 41 years before she passed away in 2018. They have two daughters, whose husbands also served in the military. Gunderson was nominated by Bannock County Veteran Services.\n\nTim Stovall, Meridian: Nominated by the Idaho State Veterans Home \u2013 Boise, Tim Stovall, was born in Castro Valley, California, but was raised in Eagle, Idaho, from the age of two. He served in the U.S. Army from 1989 to 1998. He served as a member of the 3rd Battalion 501st Aviation Regiment at Camp Eagle, Korea; and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He achieved the rank of Sergeant. He received several recognitions during his service, including a Parachutist Badge, Expert Badge Hand Grenade, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, three Army Achievement Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals and an Army Servicer Ribbon, among several others. Stovall began working for Micron Technology in 2000, where he continues to work today. He has held many roles for Micron, including Technician Trainer, Field Service Engineer and Engineering Manager. He is also the North American Lead for the Micron Veterans Employee Resource Group, whose mission is to enrich the personal and professional development of veterans through support, mentoring, retention and community engagement to advance diversity and inclusion and drive business. Stovall has coached girls\u2019 soccer for the Meridian Police Athletic League for 22 seasons. Stovall lives in Meridian with his wife and three daughters.\n\nRobert Isabelle, Buhl: Veteran Robert Isabelle served in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959 aboard the USS Los Angeles and the USS Hamul. He was nominated by the Buhl VFW Post 3604. After his military service, Isabelle studied French and worked part-time for a lab delivering reports and picking up specimens. He has been a life member of the VFW since 1995. Isabelle was the Post Quarter Master from 1999 \u2013 2023. Isabelle has driven for Interlink Caregiver/Volunteers since 2018. Isabelle says he is a devout follower of Jesus Christ.\n\nWilliam B. Johnson, Eagle: VFW Post 7019 in Kuna nominated Johnson, a retired Marine Corps Colonel with more than 31 years of honorable service. His extensive service to our country included several combat deployments that include his service in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He earned many awards for meritorious service and valor. His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award) and two Air Medals with Combat \u201cV\u201d. Since his retirement from the Marine Corps in 2019, Johnson continues to give generously of his time in service to fellow veterans. As part of Go Team Idaho \u2013 Therapy, Airport, and Crisis Dogs, he has dedicated more than 150 hours over the past year and a half visiting veterans at the Boise Veteran Affairs Medical Center and other Treasure Valley care facilities with his chocolate Labrador Retriever, Zelda. He also recently founded Prescribed Pets Animal Assisted Therapy, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to providing veterans and at-risk youth caregivers access to highly trained individual therapy dog teams at no cost. Johnson and his wife Sherrie have two children. Military service is a central value of his family, as his deceased father also served our country as a World War II Naval Officer, and his son is an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.\n\nMelanie Palmer, Kuna: VFW Post 7019 in Kuna nominated Palmer, a veteran of the U.S. Army and its Reserve component. She is a life member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Disabled American Veterans and the Idaho Women Veterans Organization. Palmer has volunteered in a variety of capacities at the Boise Veterans Home since 2006. Palmer currently works for the Idaho Tax Commission, where she coordinates food drives for the Idaho Food Bank. She also coordinates donations of clothing, personal care items and food items for the veterans\u2019 pantry at the Boise VA Medical Center, and coordinates donations of coffee and bottled water for the Caldwell Community Outpatient Veterans Clinic. Palmer is involved in a number of additional volunteer activities through collecting winter items for veterans, flag placement at the Kuna cemetery, roadside cleanups, Kuna Days and a Veterans Day breakfast. Palmer gains great personal satisfaction serving other veterans, and their families and friends.\n\nVolunteers:\n\nDana Partridge, Star: American Legion Post 39 nominated Dana Partridge for her dedication to serving veterans and her \u201cpassion and tireless commitment to this cause.\u201d Partridge is a Gold Star Daughter of Alan Brian Partridge, an Army Scout Pilot killed in Vietnam on January 31, 1970. Her personal connection to veterans inspired her to serve in their honor. She played a pivotal role in implementing the Veterans Banner Project, an initiative in Star that celebrates and recognizes local veterans by displaying their banners on streetlights throughout the city. She also initiated and organized the City of Star\u2019s first Veterans Day Potato Feed to celebrate and honor over 30 Vietnam Veterans from Star. The event collected 150 pounds of food and monetary donations to the Boise Veterans Affairs Medical Center food center. As described by American Legion Post 39, \u201cDana\u2019s dedication to building bridges between veterans and the community is commendable and showcases her exceptional commitment to serving those who have served our nation.\u201d Partridge\u2019s volunteer service extends to a number of other services in the Idaho veterans community, including the Memorial Day Program at Star Cemetery, Idaho State Veterans Home \u2013 Boise, The Wall that Heals and the American Legion Auxiliary, among others. Partridge worked a 32-year career in finance and enjoys gardening, camping and spending time with her family and rescue dogs.\n\nKim McElliott, Twin Falls: American Legion Post 7 nominated Kim McElliott, who has served as a volunteer for the American Legion and its Auxiliary for 66 years. In nominating McElliott for this award, Victor Markell describes her as \u201ca dynamic leader filled with enthusiasm and is very kind to all veterans in our Post.\u201d McElliott comes from a family of veterans--her father, four brothers, two sons and her husband have all served in some capacity. Of her volunteer service, McElliott says, \u201cSome gave their all\u2014I only gave a few hours.\u201d She began her volunteer service at a young age, helping her grandfather, Clarence Smith, distribute poppies in her town. She also volunteers with Quilts of Valor, which awards hand- and machine-sewed patriotic quilts to veterans. She is the Chairperson for Bets for Vets, which is in its second year of raising funds throughout the community for veterans. McElliot and her husband, Larry, have two sons.\n\nRosemarie \u201cDaisy\u201d Wimer, Boise: The Idaho State Veterans Home \u2013Boise nominated Daisy Wimer for her 13 years of volunteer service. Wimer has close family ties to the military through her father, a World War II Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, as well as her late first husband, Larry, a Navy Communication Technician Spanish Linguist. She spends her time at the Veterans Home visiting with and playing Pinochle and Cribbage with veterans, volunteering in the library and serving lunch. Recently, she completed a project of repairing over 450 pairs of scrub pants. She first married her high school sweetheart, Larry, who passed away from cancer at the age of 49. She has been married to her husband, Gayle, for twenty years. Wimer dedicates significant time to volunteering at church, the local senior center and at the Veterans Home.\n\nTerri Brockman, Lewiston: The Idaho State Veterans Home \u2013 Lewiston nominated Terri Brockman, noting her 29 years of service to Idaho veterans. Brockman began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and later Activity Director at Tri State Health and Rehab. When the Idaho State Veterans Home \u2013 Lewiston opened, Brockman assumed the Home\u2019s role as volunteer services/activities coordinator, where she worked for over 27 years. She led and built the Home\u2019s activities program for veterans. In her retirement, she continues to volunteer at the Home, as well as at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #3936 and the Idaho Veterans Assistance League \u2013 Lewiston. She enjoys being a personal shopper for veterans, helping to ensure they get needed items, and offers additional support for the Home\u2019s canteen. According to Larissa Dittman at the Home, Terri\u2019s \u201cvolunteer service has proven most valuable especially through the difficulties created by a public health emergency.\u201d Sewing is one of her favorite hobbies. She also enjoys gardening alongside her husband of 37 years, Rick, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.\n\nVicki VanVliet, Boise: The Idaho Veterans Assistance League (IVAL) nominated Vicki VanVliet. She has served as a volunteer for the IVAL canteen since 2016. When the IVAL reopened to volunteers in November 2021 following a pause related to the COVID pandemic, VanVliet returned to help serve veterans meals while they were restricted to their units. She also helped with clean-up. VanVliet comes from a long line of veterans. She volunteers with her husband, Jon Osburn.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe award, established by Crapo in 2002, is a small way to recognize and acknowledge the contributions of Idaho\u2019s veterans and volunteers who support Idaho veterans. Biographies for current and past year recipients are posted on Senator Crapo\u2019s website at: https://www.crapo.senate.gov/about/spirit-of-freedom. Each Spirit of Freedom Award recipient will receive a certificate for their service as well as a United States flag that has been flown over the U.S. Capitol building. The nominations for the Spirit of Freedom Award are made by a number of veterans\u2019 service organizations.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-hearing-on-how-the-tax-code-affects-high-income-individuals", "Crapo Statement at Hearing on How the Tax Code Affects High-Income Individuals", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, delivered the following remarks at hearing entitled \u201cExamining How the Tax Code Affects High-Income Individuals and Tax Planning Strategies.\u201d\n\nAs prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman.\n\n\u201cI look forward to our discussion today on the effect of the Tax Code on individuals and families as they work, save and invest.\n\n\u201cThe scope of today\u2019s hearing provides members the opportunity to cover a broad range of topics, and we will no doubt hear a number of concerns raised about how the Code treats high-income taxpayers.\n\n\u201cWe should dispel the notion that there is any support for taxpayers who evade their tax obligations; we all agree taxpayers should pay the tax they legally owe.\n\n\u201cFor the gray area of taxpayers who aggressively structure their affairs to reduce their tax liability, we should constantly assess how the Code can better target certain activity.\n\n\u201cBut framing this issue through the subjective lens of \u2018fairness\u2019 often ignores the facts and turns a blind eye to favored incentives.\n\n\u201cRather than focusing on rhetoric, we should examine the data and how the Code affects behaviors.\n\n\u201cThat includes examining provisions that primarily benefit a select group of the financially well-off \u2013 including tax credits for those who can afford expensive electric vehicles, costly energy efficient home upgrades, and proposals to repeal the cap or expand the highly-regressive deduction for State and Local Taxes.\n\n\u201cAs for the data, these are the indisputable facts:\n\nMost of the federal tax burden is paid by high earners;\n\nFederal tax collections have been near all-time highs;\n\nThe voluntary tax compliance rate is high and stable; and\n\nHigher income taxes serve as disincentives to work, save and invest.\n\n\u201cMy Republican colleagues and I remain focused on safeguarding taxpayers and their rights; reducing barriers to work, savings and investment; and promoting opportunity and wealth to improve the quality of life for all Americans.\n\n\u201cIn 2017, Republicans lowered individual rates across the board, with middle-income taxpayers getting the largest proportional benefits.\n\n\u201cRepublicans also simplified filing for many, expanded the child tax credit and limited regressive tax spending like the SALT deduction.\n\n\u201cCritics charged that letting Americans keep more of their earnings would stifle the economy, dry up federal revenue and favor the wealthy.\n\n\u201cInstead, it created one of the strongest economies in our nation\u2019s history, including an unemployment rate that reached a generational low, increased federal tax collections to near all-time highs, grew wages across the income spectrum and expanded job participation.\n\n\u201cAll Americans benefitted.\n\n\u201cNotwithstanding claims that high earners pay the least taxes, the reverse is actually true.\n\n\u201cAccording to the Biden Treasury Department, in 2023, the top 1 percent of earners paid 42.2 percent of all federal income taxes \u2013 the highest \u2013 despite only earning 19 percent of all income.\n\n\u201cIn 2001, the top 1 percent of earners contributed 33.2 percent of income tax revenue, nine points lower.\n\n\u201cIn other words, the country\u2019s income tax burden is more progressive today than it was decades ago.\n\n\u201cExpanding the aperture to examine the top 5 percent of taxpayers \u2013 those with incomes above $200,000 a year \u2013 mirrors this dynamic.\n\n\u201cThese Americans pay 65.3 percent of all federal income taxes while making only 34 percent of all income.\n\n\u201cMeanwhile, federal tax collections reached an all-time high of $4.9 trillion in FY 2022 \u2013 with individual income tax collections contributing the most, growing 29 percent year-over-year.\n\n\u201cIn fact, individual income tax collections reached 10.5 percent of GDP in FY 2022, the highest level on record.\n\n\u201cAll of this is after the impact of Republican-led tax reform.\n\n\u201cIn arguing for tax code fairness, some have pointed to a recent tax gap projection from the IRS, which shows an increase over the previous estimate.\n\n\u201cThis growth actually shows one of the many effects of inflation.\n\n\u201cDespite headlines to the contrary, the tax gap is proportionately flat and historically average relative to the economy\u2019s size.\n\n\u201cAccording to the Cato Institute\u2019s examination of the tax gap as a percentage of GDP, for 2021, that ratio was 2.9 percent, squarely in line with the twenty-year average.\n\n\u201cAnd the voluntary tax compliance rate \u2013 around 85 percent \u2013 remains substantially unchanged.\n\n\u201cWhile we should work to find bipartisan measures to narrow the tax gap, any such effort must be balanced against diminishing returns.\n\n\u201cI look forward to hearing the perspectives of today\u2019s witnesses on how the individual tax system affects taxpayers from all income groups and how increased taxes \u2013 in the midst of high and sustained inflation \u2013 would impact our economy.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-press-federal-agencies-on-use-of-artificial-intelligence", "Crapo, Wyden Press Federal Agencies on Use of Artificial Intelligence", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chair Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) have requested information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Health and Human Services (HHS) on how the agencies are employing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and what steps they are taking to ensure the technology is used appropriately.\n\n\u201cAs technological innovations such as AI are used more frequently by government agencies, it is important for us to gain a better understanding of AI applications within the Finance Committee\u2019s jurisdiction,\u201d said Crapo.\n\n\u201cAs is frequently the case with new technology, AI provides us with exciting opportunities to better serve the American people, but we\u2019re only beginning to see the consequences of leaving these systems unchecked,\u201d said Wyden. \u201cThe federal government has a responsibility to ensure the systems it is using to make decisions that impact Americans\u2019 daily lives are doing so accurately and without harmful bias.\u201d\n\nIn their letter to CBP, Crapo and Wyden noted the powerful potential of this technology to speed legitimate trade and focus enforcement resources on catching trade cheats. However, as part of their oversight responsibilities, they sought additional information about how exactly CBP is using this technology to carry out activities such as cargo screenings at borders, screening of small packages at postal facilities, compliance and more.\n\nIn their letter to HHS, Crapo and Wyden pressed for information on how the agency is using AI to filter through and synthesize vast amounts of data to support program management, administration and care.\n\nBoth letters also press for details on what--if any--guardrails have been put in place to help identify and correct any algorithmic bias found in the technology these federal agencies are using.\n\nThe text of the letter to CBP and DHS can be found here.\n\nThe text of the letter to HHS can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-bipartisan-health-care-policy-markup", "Crapo Statement at Bipartisan Health Care Policy Markup", "2023-11-08", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, delivered the following remarks at an open executive session to consider the Better Mental Health Care, Lower-Cost Drugs and Extenders Act.\n\nAs prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman.\n\n\u201cThree months ago, this Committee took crucial steps toward improving health care access and affordability for Americans from all walks of life. In advancing the Modernizing and Ensuring PBM Accountability Act, we demonstrated the bipartisan conviction and momentum needed to move good policy from concept to law.\n\n\u201cAt that time, the Chairman and I committed to continuing our work on prescription drug benefits. With this markup, we honor that commitment.\n\n\u201cToday, we are taking up commonsense, comprehensive proposals championed by Members across the dais to strengthen our federal health care programs.\n\n\u201cFor two decades, Medicare Part D has served as a lifeline for countless seniors and Americans with disabilities, ensuring coverage for a wide range of safe and effective medications.\n\n\u201cHowever, market dynamics have shifted. Consolidation has constrained competition, compromised plan quality and heightened the potential for conflicts of interest across the supply chain.\n\n\u201cVertically integrated insurers, merged with pharmacy benefit managers\u2014or \u2018PBMs\u2019\u2014now account for more than 80 percent of the Part D market, up from just 30 percent in 2010.\n\n\u201cFour PBMs manage benefits for 90 percent of enrollees. The three largest specialty pharmacies are all PBM affiliates, controlling more than two-thirds of specialty drug dispensing.\n\n\u201cIn short, the market-driven dynamism envisioned with Medicare Part D\u2019s enactment has given way to an opaque, highly concentrated and distorted pharmacy benefit landscape. This situation demands oversight and legislative improvements.\n\n\u201cTaxpayers and seniors finance the program. We are the client. We have a responsibility to promote accountability and improvement, particularly for the most vulnerable and high-need Americans.\n\n\u201cOver the past five years, out-of-pocket costs for Medicare seniors have risen at nearly three times the rate for commercially insured consumers. According to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office, Part D beneficiaries pay more than their insurers for 79 of the 100 most highly rebated drugs under the program.\n\n\u201cThe warped, distorted rebate system that dominates the program curbs access to lower-cost medications. It instead exposes patients to cost-sharing based on inflated sticker prices. In a perverse form of reverse insurance, discounts on the medications used by the highest-need enrollees cross-subsidize the healthiest seniors, with no direct savings at the pharmacy counter.\n\n\u201cThanks to the tireless efforts of Senators Cornyn and Tillis, among others, the legislation before us today would chip away at this outdated model, providing relief to patients with chronic conditions and capping cost-sharing for all Part D enrollees at the net price of any given drug, inclusive of rebates.\n\n\u201cUnder policies led by Senators Blackburn and Lankford, seniors would also see increased pharmacy choice. Our bipartisan bill shores up the enforcement of pharmacy access protections. It would provide for a much-needed focus on independent community sites in medically underserved areas.\n\n\u201cWith these updates, the Committee\u2019s PBM reform legislation would adapt Medicare Part D to address these and other challenges facing today\u2019s seniors.\n\n\u201cImportantly, this comprehensive proposal would also pay for itself, upholding our bipartisan commitment to fiscal responsibility. Senator Cassidy\u2019s continued investment in cost transparency has proven crucial here.\n\n\u201cIn fact, our legislation generates net savings, which we have reserved to account for any costs incurred under Senator Lankford\u2019s targeted biosimilar access policy, which we remain committed to advancing.\n\n\u201cBeyond prescription drug access and affordability, the bill before us reaffirms this Committee\u2019s consensus-driven approach to health care improvements on a wide range of fronts.\n\n\u201cMental health provisions crafted by Senators Cornyn, Thune and Daines would drive care integration, improve telehealth access and help to address workforce strain, based on bipartisan proposals developed last year. Today\u2019s legislation also extends key flexibilities for states to ensure appropriate sites of care for behavioral health needs, thanks to leadership from Senators Thune and Blackburn.\n\n\u201cUnder a policy led by Senator Barrasso, frontline health care providers would retain incentives to enter into value-based payment models. Clinicians would also receive targeted relief from reimbursement cuts triggered by the volatility of the Physician Fee Schedule.\n\n\u201cAnother vital policy extension, championed by Senator Grassley, would avert further cuts to doctors across our states, which could otherwise exacerbate ongoing shortages.\n\n\u201cOutlining every provision would take more time than we have here today. Virtually all Members of this Committee have contributed\u2014in meaningful, essential ways\u2014to the patient-focused, fiscally sound and evidence-driven final product.\n\n\u201cSenators across the dais have also produced a range of compelling amendments, creating a robust roadmap for further collaborative work moving forward.\n\n\u201cFrom enhancing access to groundbreaking early cancer screening technologies to strengthening the Physician Fee Schedule through sustainable, structural reforms, we have endless opportunities for meaningful, Member-driven policymaking in the future.\n\n\u201cSpecifically, one such amendment, the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, which I lead alongside Senators Bennet, Cardin, and Scott, has support from a majority of the Senate \u2013 including 19 cosponsors on this Committee \u2013 as well as from a majority of House Members, and from more than 700 local and national stakeholder groups, representing all 50 states. Given this rare and broad bipartisan support, I look forward to working together to move this policy through the Committee.\n\n\u201cThis markup, along with our successful markup from July, provides an optimistic blueprint for this type of work.\n\n\u201cToday, I look forward to advancing this comprehensive, deficit-cutting, bipartisan legislation\u2014and working to pursue its full Senate passage and enactment.\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-applaud-committee-passage-of-legislation-to-improve-mental-health-care-lower-drug-costs-and-extend-essential-medicaid-and-medicare-programs", "Crapo, Wyden Applaud Committee Passage of Legislation to Improve Mental Health Care, Lower Drug Costs and Extend Essential Medicaid and Medicare Programs", "2023-11-08", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chair Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) today lauded committee passage of the Better Mental Health Care, Lower Drug Cost and Extenders Act, which was reported out of committee 26-0.\n\nThe legislation expands mental health care and substance use disorder services under Medicaid and Medicare, reduces prescription drug costs for seniors at the pharmacy counter, extends essential Medicaid and Medicare provisions that will expire this year, and increases Medicare payments to support physicians and other providers.\n\n\u201cThis comprehensive legislation will reduce out-of-pocket medication costs for seniors, enhance accountability in our federal health care programs, improve access to high-quality mental health services, and extend critical support for clinicians and suppliers,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI thank Senator Wyden and every member of the Committee for their partnership in this effort, and look forward to advancing this comprehensive, deficit-cutting, bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cOnce again this committee has come together in the fight to expand access to mental health care and rein in the shadowy tactics by pharmacy benefit managers that hurt community pharmacies and drive up prescription drug costs for seniors and taxpayers \u2013 all while also making sure essential Medicaid and Medicare programs can continue,\u201d said Wyden. \u201cI am proud of the work accomplished today, and I want to thank Ranking Member Crapo for his leadership and members of the committee for their contributions throughout this process and for the work that is to come.\u201d\n\nRecent Finance Committee health care efforts have drawn support by a strong coalition of Idaho groups, including the American Nurses Association Idaho, Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce, Idaho Academy of Family Physicians, Idaho Center for Nursing, Idaho Medical Association, Idaho Retailers Association, Idaho State Pharmacy Association, Idaho Technology Council, National Alliance on Mental Illness Idaho, North Idaho Alliance of Care, Nurse Leaders of Idaho, and Nurse Practitioners of Idaho; AARP Idaho; Alliance for Transparent and Affordable Prescriptions; the Alliance of Community Health Plans; the Arthritis Foundation; the Coalition of State Rheumatological Organizations; the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; the National Community Pharmacists Association; the National Consumers League; and a large coalition of patient groups. Today\u2019s legislation is supported by the American Association of Senior Citizens; American College of Physicians; American Hospital Association; American Pharmacists Association; American Psychiatric Association; Bipartisan Policy Center; CIVICA; Food Industry Association; Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; National Association of Manufacturers; and a large coalition of groups.\n\nClick here for more information on the legislation, including a description of the Chairman\u2019s Mark and a section-by-section summary.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/11/07/id-970bbab7-c1c4-4c77-98f5-e132f0c58c76/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins The Kevin Miller Show On Israel, Budget, and Floor Activity", "2023-11-07", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Nov 7, 2023\nCongressman Russ Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Kevin Miller, broadcast on 580 AM and 107.5 FM, on November 7th, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-ricketts-raise-concerns-over-proposal-to-include-federal-lands-in-private-investment-portfolios", "Crapo, Risch, Ricketts Raise Concerns Over Proposal to Include Federal Lands in Private Investment Portfolios", "2023-11-07", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo,, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) sent a letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) expressing concerns about a proposed rule giving Natural Asset Companies, including foreign investors, private management authority over federal land.\n\n\u201cWe are concerned that corporate involvement in the stewardship and control of our federal lands would create unintended consequences,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cThe proposed rule could lead to a preservationist-only approach to federal land management instead of an \u2018all-of-the-above\u2019 working lands approach as intended by the creation of our federal land programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are also alarmed by the SEC\u2019s allowance under the proposed rule of foreign investment in these uniquely U.S. assets,\u201d the senators continued. \u201cAt a time in which we are actively working to deter our adversaries, we should not be open our federal lands up to investment from the same adversaries.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-sullivan-warn-new-permitting-rule-imperils-americas-mineral-needs-adds-red-tape", "Crapo, Risch, Sullivan Warn New Permitting Rule Imperils America\u2019s Mineral Needs, Adds Red Tape", "2023-11-06", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and their Senate colleagues sent a letter to the executive director of the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (FPISC) demanding the council rescind its proposal to limit the type of mining projects eligible for the improved permitting process established under Title 41 of the Fixing America\u2019s Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41). The senators warn the proposed rule will hinder mining permitting predictability and efficiency, threaten America\u2019s manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, and national security needs and further empower China\u2019s near-monopoly on the global supply of critical minerals.\n\n\u201cPermitting delays have been, and continue to be, one of the most significant risks to meeting domestic mineral production goals - a fact clearly recognized by FPISC in 2021,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cFPISC should be doing all it can to facilitate the addition of mining projects to the FPISC dashboard of covered projects, as significant investments are being made daily in such projects, regardless of the type of minerals being mined. Unfortunately, this misguided and shortsighted proposal disincentivizes such investment.\u201d\n\n\u201cFPISC\u2019s proposal sends the wrong message to investors, industry stakeholders, and our nation\u2019s allies\u2026[and] will hinder mining permitting predictability and efficiency while further empowering China with its near-monopoly on the global supply of critical minerals\u2026We urge FPISC to abandon this proposal and use its existing authority to actively support all mining infrastructure projects to unleash America's national supply chains and processing capabilities.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Risch, Crapo, and Sullivan, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Katie Britt (R-Alaska), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/11/03/id-02ef867b-80f3-4b93-bca7-f43c79625158/", "Congressman Fulcher Passes Amendment to Eliminate Funding for \u201c30\u00d730\u201d Initiative", "2023-11-03", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Nov 3, 2023\nOn November 2nd, 2023, Congressman Fulcher submitted an amendment to H.R. 4821, Department of Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024. Congressman Fulcher\u2019s amendment restricts funds to implement Section 216 of Executive Order 14008 ((86 Fed. Reg. 7627, relating to tackling the climate crisis at home and abroad). The amendment passed on a recorded vote that same evening and was included in the final legislation H.R. 4821.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-join-bipartisan-group-in-seeking-longer-comment-period-on-major-ag-worker-program-reforms", "Crapo, Risch Join Bipartisan Group In Seeking Longer Comment Period On Major Ag Worker Program Reforms", "2023-11-03", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) joined a bipartisan group of Senators in asking two federal agencies to give farmers and ranchers more time to review and comment on significant reforms to the H-2A temporary agricultural workers program.\n\nIn letters to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, the Senators request a 60-day public comment extension for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed rulemaking, \u201cModernizing H-2 Program Requirements, Oversight, and Worker Protections, 88 FR 65040,\u201d and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) proposed rulemaking, \u201cImproving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agricultural Employment in the United States, 88 FR 63750.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States takes pride in producing the world\u2019s safest, most abundant, and most affordable food supply. Our nation\u2019s ability to do so is entirely contingent on the strength of our agricultural workforce. The H-2A program provides a critical labor pool without which many producers in our states would struggle or be entirely unable to operate,\u201d the Senators wrote.\n\n\u201cAny proposed regulatory changes to the H-2A program have potential ramifications for the entire American agricultural supply chain and food security. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that our constituents be provided adequate time to thoroughly analyze this proposed rule and its effects on their operations. Moreover, this comment period is occurring while many producers in our states will be occupied with fall harvest and unable to dedicate time to developing meaningful comments,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe letters were signed by Crapo, Risch and U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi) Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Angus King, Jr. (I-Maine), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Katie Britt (R-Alaska) and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska).\n\nThe Senators\u2019 requests were prompted by farmers, ranchers and other agricultural stakeholders in their states who are increasingly concerned that DHS and DOL will finalize the rules before they can fully assess and comment on the new federal mandates on agricultural employers. They also noted that four other regulatory actions of interest to these stakeholders have comment periods ending during the comment period of the DOL and DHS proposed regulations.\n\nThe Agriculture Workforce Coalition sent similar letters to DHS and DOL. This coalition consists of a large number of agriculture organizations from across the nation, among them American Farm Bureau Federation, National Council of Agricultural Employers, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Milk Producers, National Onion Association and National Potato Council.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-double-down-demanding-answers-from-department-of-education-amid-dangerous-increase-in-antisemitic-behavior-on-college-campuses", "Crapo, Risch Double Down Demanding Answers from Department of Education Amid Dangerous Increase in Antisemitic Behavior on College Campuses", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--As antisemitic behavior continues to escalate across college campuses, U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) are doubling down on their demands that the U.S. Secretary of Education provide information regarding the U.S. Department of Education\u2019s efforts--or lack thereof--to ensure the safety of Jewish and Pro-Israel students. The Senators also reiterated that the department must ensure taxpayer dollars do not fund antisemitic activities on college campuses.\n\n\u201cMany Jewish and pro-Israel students have felt unsafe in their institutions of higher education, especially following Hamas\u2019 attack on Israel,\u201d wrote Crapo and Risch. \u201cWhile we were already concerned about antisemitism on college campuses, the events of the last month have made it clear the Department owes both the Senate and the American people answers as to whether taxpayer dollars are in anyway funding these antisemitic programs, speakers, or activities. In addition, it owes parents an explanation for how it is protecting their kids and their freedom of speech and religion.\u201d\n\nGiven the growing number and increased severity of antisemitic behavior following Hamas\u2019 attack on Israel, Crapo and Risch are calling for an immediate response from Secretary Cardona.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-social-security-administration-commissioner-nomination-hearing", "Crapo Statement at Social Security Administration Commissioner Nomination Hearing", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, delivered the following remarks at hearing to consider the nomination of Martin O\u2019Malley to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA).\n\nAs prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cThank you, Senator Wyden.\n\n\u201cGovernor O\u2019Malley, congratulations on your nomination and thank you for your willingness to serve.\n\n\u201cThis nomination is long overdue, coming more than two years after President Biden removed the prior Senate-confirmed Commissioner. During this time, the Social Security Administration has struggled to fulfill its customer service mission.\n\n\u201cThe Social Security Administration is responsible for overseeing the Social Security program, which provides more than $1 trillion in benefits to millions of seniors, individuals with disabilities and their families each year. The SSA also administers the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, assigns Social Security numbers and issues Social Security cards.\n\n\u201cGiven the SSA\u2019s important responsibilities, the public rightly expects the agency to provide timely, responsive service. However, SSA is not living up to these expectations.\n\n\u201cFor fiscal year 2023, Americans waited more than seven months, on average, for a disability decision at the initial level. For those denied at the initial level, they waited another seven months at the reconsideration level and another nearly 15 months if they sought a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.\n\n\u201cWhile not all applicants will qualify for disability benefits, they all deserve to receive a decision within a reasonable period of time. The Social Security Administration must take additional steps to reduce wait times for a disability decision and address outdated disability program rules.\n\n\u201cSSA\u2019s National 800 Number is one of the primary channels for seeking assistance from the agency and it must do more to address wait times. In fiscal year 2023, callers to the National 800 Number waited more than 35 minutes, on average, to speak with a representative, compared to approximately 13 minutes two years prior and around 10 minutes a decade ago. SSA should also continue improving its online offerings, which not only increase flexibility for beneficiaries, but also allow the agency to be more efficient with its resources.\n\n\u201cAmericans rightly expect that the SSA will be a responsible steward of taxpayer funds. However, for fiscal year 2021, the SSA issued approximately $2.49 billion in improper payments for Social Security and $4.91 billion for SSI. The agency has additional tools to prevent improper payments before they occur, and the agency should use them.\n\n\u201cFinally, while the President and Congress are tasked with ensuring Social Security\u2019s long-term solvency, the SSA plays a critical role in making sure the Administration, Congress and the public have accurate and timely information about the program\u2019s long-term finances. This year, for the first time in over a decade, the Social Security Trustees Report was delivered to Congress by the statutory April 1 deadline. I expect a new Commissioner to help ensure that the Trustees Report deadline is treated as a deadline, not a suggestion.\n\n\u201cGovernor O\u2019Malley, if confirmed, you will face immense challenges and a relatively short timeline to get the Social Security Administration back on track. This may be a tall order, but the American people deserve nothing less.\n\n\u201cI look forward to hearing your testimony and responses to our questions to better understand: how you would evaluate and address SSA\u2019s customer service challenges; what specific data you would look at to evaluate the use of telework; how you would ensure that the SSA\u2019s independent status is maintained in practice; and what would be your top areas of focus with respect to modernizing the SSA\u2019s information technology?\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-republicans-new-medicaid-rule-risks-disrupting-patient-care", "Finance Committee Republicans: New Medicaid Rule Risks Disrupting Patient Care", "2023-11-01", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--In a concerning departure from precedent, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a new rule to change Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP) operations in ways that offer no material benefit for patients. In a letter to Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Republican members of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, led by Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), urged the Administration to withdraw problematic components of the proposed rule and work with Congress to develop improvements to the Medicaid program so patients have access to cutting-edge, life-saving prescription drugs.\n\nThe senators note:\n\nWhile we share some of the agency\u2019s objectives, including preventing certain problematic practices within the prescription drug supply chain, many of the [rule\u2019s] proposed changes defy longstanding statutory understanding and impose costly new mandates, creating fiscal uncertainty for states and risking patient access to the most innovative therapies and cures.\n\nThey identify several problems with the proposal, including \u201cstacking\u201d to compute the \u201cBest Price\u201d benchmark, which would create technical complications and risk undercutting the policy\u2019s core objectives by disincentivizing larger price concessions.\n\nThe senators also highlight the lack of a patient-oriented justification for the proposal\u2019s price verification survey, noting that the proposed rule seeks to establish a survey process for certain \u201chigh cost\u201d covered outpatient drugs, like cell and gene therapies, instead of addressing the access barriers identified by states, patients and providers.\n\nThey end the letter:\n\nWe urge CMS to preserve the MDRP\u2019s statutory balance consistent with Congress\u2019s intent by withdrawing the misguided proposals that risk disrupting patient care. We would welcome the opportunity to work with you to improve the Medicaid program so that patients have access to cutting-edge, live-changing prescription drugs.\n\nIn addition to Ranking Member Crapo, the letter is signed by Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Todd Young (R-Indiana), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee).\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nDear Administrator Brooks-LaSure:\n\nWe write to express concerns with several policies included in the proposed rule \u201cMisclassification of Drugs, Program Administration and Program Integrity Updates Under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program\u201d (NPRM). While we share some of the agency\u2019s objectives, including preventing certain problematic practices within the prescription drug supply chain, many of the NPRM\u2019s proposed changes defy longstanding statutory understanding and impose costly new mandates, creating fiscal uncertainty for states and risking patient access to the most innovative therapies and cures. Rather than establishing new reporting requirements or altering foundational definitions, we ask that you work with states, patients, providers and policymakers to implement reforms that promote adoption of value-based arrangements or other innovative purchasing models that improve health outcomes and reduce costs.\n\nAs enacted by Congress, the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP) intends to ensure patients have widespread access to life-sustaining and lifesaving outpatient prescription drugs through a voluntary partnership with pharmaceutical manufacturers. The rebates required under this program, coupled with broad prescription drug coverage, aim to contain costs for states while serving the needs of Medicaid recipients and preserving incentives for medical breakthroughs.\n\nUnfortunately, the NPRM proposes to disrupt this approach dramatically, upending more than three decades of statutory understanding and practice by rewriting the rules of the road for MDRP rebate calculations. Specifically, the proposal would require the aggregation of all manufacturer rebates and discounts to all supply-chain participants for the computation of the \u201cBest Price\u201d benchmark used as the basis for Medicaid rebates for numerous drugs. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services\u2019 (CMS\u2019s) proposed \u201cstacking\u201d policy reverses the plain language of the statute, along with previous regulations and relevant caselaw, replacing Medicaid Best Price\u2019s traditional definition, as the best price provided to an individual purchaser, with a hypothetical \u201cbest price\u201d merging any number of unrelated price concessions, offered to unaffiliated and wholly separate entities.\n\nThe operational complexities inherent in this sweeping shift could render the proposal entirely unworkable, even from a purely practical standpoint, as neither CMS nor supply-chain participants have systems in place to \u201cstack\u201d unrelated rebates and discounts stemming from a range of different transactions and contracts, often incorporating proprietary information, into a clear and verifiable figure. That said, even setting aside technical complications and potential legal headwinds, the substantive policy change at issue risks undercutting its own core objectives by disincentivizing, rather than encouraging, larger price concessions. Stacking rebates and discounts could result in withheld price concessions, smaller supplemental rebates for states, and a new set of hurdles for price reporting oversight. In the meantime, patients would receive no benefit from this novel departure from precedent.\n\nThe NPRM also fails to provide a patient-oriented justification for its proposed price verification survey. Gene and cell therapies have the potential to transform health care delivery, offering treatments and cures for previously incurable diseases. While the private sector has developed payment arrangements for these truly novel products, federal government programs have fallen short on providing a viable pathway to coverage for patients. Instead of addressing the access barriers identified by states, patients and providers, the NPRM seeks to establish a drug price verification survey process for certain \u201chigh cost\u201d covered outpatient drugs, including cell and gene therapies. The new price-based listing would require manufacturers to report information related to the costs of research, development and production or prices charged outside of the United States, which the agency proposes to publish. These new reporting requirements are irrelevant to the enforcement of the MDRP and risk disclosing proprietary information without remedying the underlying statutory and regulatory barriers to value-based coverage arrangements for gene and cell therapies under Medicaid.\n\nWe urge CMS to preserve the MDRP\u2019s statutory balance consistent with Congress\u2019s intent by withdrawing the misguided proposals that risk disrupting patient care. We would welcome the opportunity to work with you to improve the Medicaid program so that patients have access to cutting-edge, live-changing prescription drugs.\n\nSincerely,\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/31/id-0d37b96f-4f2c-42f9-8db5-9c69397c8272/", "Press Release: Congressman Fulcher Praises Continued Expansion of GTN Express Project To Benefit Idaho", "2023-10-31", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nCONTACT:(202) 225-6611\n\nKAMIAH, ID \u2013 At the conclusion of a crowded Congressional Town Hall in Kamiah, Idaho, Congressman Russ Fulcher reiterated his support for the approval of the Gas Transmission Northwest XPress Project (GTN Xpress) by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to benefit his constituents in Idaho. The approval of the GTN Xpress project will allow an extra 150 million standard cubic feet per day in an existing pipeline. The project approval does not build out new pipelines \u2013 but rather upgrades existing facilities in Athol, Idaho and two other locations operated by TC Energy in Washington and Oregon. The upgraded facilities will provide increased reliability for natural gas supplies to Idaho-based shipper, Intermountain Gas Company.\n\nCongressman Fulcher commented, \u201cDespite the Biden Administration\u2019s anti-liquid natural gas and other proven fuel policies, simple projects to increase supply are finally moving forward for Idahoans to increase energy reliability. Projects like the GTN Xpress utilize existing infrastructure with new technology to provide additional value to consumers in the Northwest. In the future, I expect FERC to have a streamlined process for technological advancements on previously approved projects. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Energy & Commerce Committee to deliver more energy wins for the American people.\u201d\n\nBackground: TC Energy filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on October 4th, 2021, to upgrade software, modify turbine compressors, and add additional gas cooling at three facilities in Athol, Idaho, Starbuck, Washington, and Kent, Washington. The existing pipeline infrastructure has been in service since 1962 and serves customers primarily in the Pacific Northwest.\n\nOn October 23rd, 2023, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approved the upgrades to the existing pipeline infrastructure operated by TC Energy to allow for an increase of 150 million standard cubic feet per day in service to shippers in the Pacific Northwest.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-cassidy-introduce-judicial-reform-bill-to-streamline-permitting-processes-in-the-us", "Crapo, Risch, Cassidy Introduce Judicial Reform Bill to Streamline Permitting Processes in the U.S.", "2023-10-31", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) introduced the Revising and Enhancing Project Authorizations Impacted by Review (REPAIR) Act, which will streamline the permitting process for U.S. energy, manufacturing and critical infrastructure projects.\n\n\u201cProgress in American manufacturing and energy production means limiting the time and resources wasted on battling frivolous lawsuits during the permitting and review process for new projects. The REPAIR Act removes impediments to new development and fosters a more secure supply chain as America strives for stronger energy and technology independence,\u201d said Crapo.\n\n\u201cRadical activist litigation has stalled far too many critical domestic energy, natural resource, and manufacturing projects and made us reliant on other countries, like China. The REPAIR Act will prevent these serial litigants from using unfair tactics and loop holes to bog down our judicial system and tie up our natural resources,\u201d said Risch.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s impossible to permit energy and manufacturing in the U.S. Well-funded radical groups are hijacking the justice system to send critical infrastructure projects they don\u2019t like into legal purgatory,\u201d said Cassidy. \u201cCommonsense judicial reform removes unnecessary roadblocks while preserving the right to challenge projects. Doing so provides certainty and shortens permitting timelines.\u201d\n\nThe REPAIR Act makes many vital changes to the judicial review process of an approved permit. The judicial process created by the REPAIR Act ensures all laws related to permitting have the same review process, scope of adjudication, rules for standing and statute of limitations. The bill removes the ability to file a suit based on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), instead focusing lawsuits on the statute for which the permit was issued. In the case of a judicial remand or other court action, the REPAIR Act establishes a mediation process that allows the project developer and the permit-issuing agency to directly address the challenge in order to allow the project to move forward. Additionally, the bill increases transparency in ongoing court challenges to permits in an effort to highlight the unnecessary delays caused by the judicial process.\n\nCrapo, Risch and Cassidy are joined by Senators Steve Daines (R-Montana), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming) and Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) in introducing the judicial reform legislation.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Petroleum Institute and ClearPath.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-smith-mcmorris-rodgers-press-biden-administration-to-withdraw-unworkable-unrealistic-federal-nurse-staffing-mandate", "Crapo, Smith, McMorris Rodgers Press Biden Administration to Withdraw Unworkable, Unrealistic Federal Nurse Staffing Mandate", "2023-10-31", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--The Biden Administration recently proposed a one-size-fits-all federal nurse staffing mandate, despite overwhelming evidence that such a policy would be virtually impossible for the nation\u2019s nursing homes to meet.\n\nIn a letter to U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Becerra and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Brooks-LaSure, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), along with U.S. House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-Missouri) and U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington), call on the Administration to immediately withdraw the proposed rule and provide justification for its $40.6 billion unfunded mandate that could force many nursing homes to close, threatening resident access to direct care services.\n\nFrom the letter:\n\n\u201cWe write today to express our serious concerns regarding the Administration\u2019s minimum nurse staffing standards proposed rule. This one-size-fits-all, unfunded mandate will jeopardize access to care for the 1.2 million Americans living in more than 15,000 certified nursing homes nationwide \u2013 especially those who reside in rural and underserved areas. Our nation\u2019s nursing homes have weathered an unprecedented storm over the past three years. From government spending induced inflation to pandemic provider burnout, community access to long-term care services has been strained. Since January 2020, over 400 nursing homes closed their doors and approximately 190,000 nursing home employees left the workforce \u2026 Given this current landscape, the Administration\u2019s proposal will only serve to further undermine patient access to skilled nursing care. As such, we strongly urge you to withdraw the rule and work with us on tailored solutions addressing the severe health care workforce shortages in our states,\u201d wrote Ranking Member Crapo, Chair Smith and Chair McMorris Rodgers.\n\nUnder the Biden Administration\u2019s proposal, nursing homes would have limited flexibility to distribute direct care staff and meet individual resident needs. Nursing homes face strong competition to recruit and retain trained workers, especially in rural areas. CMS data indicates that 79 percent of nursing facilities across the country would need to hire additional nursing staff in order to comply with the Biden Administration\u2019s proposed mandate. While CMS argues that the total number of needed providers exist, many of these individuals are already practicing in another care setting or living in another geographic area.\n\nFrom the letter:\n\n\u201cIn applying a uniform, minimum staffing ratio to all facilities, regardless of size or case-mix, the proposed rule could incentivize some facilities to overstaff in order to meet arbitrary federal thresholds. This risks diverting qualified nurses away from small, rural and underserved facilities that also must hire additional employees, running counter to the stated intent of the proposal.\u201d\n\nEven the final report, cited by the Biden Administration to justify proposing the new mandate, found no specified level of staffing could guarantee improved beneficiary outcomes.\n\nFrom the letter:\n\n\u201cThe Administration\u2019s own study is clear that there is no significant correlation between any given staffing ratio and increased quality outcomes for residents,\u201d wrote Crapo, Smith and McMorris Rodgers. \u201cThese data call into question why the agency would place an unprecedented unfunded mandate on nursing facilities and the States while also acknowledging such a marginal expected increase in patient outcomes and quality.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nDear Secretary Becerra and Administrator Brooks-LaSure,\n\nWe write today to express our serious concerns regarding the Administration\u2019s minimum nurse staffing standards proposed rule.[1] This one-size-fits-all, unfunded mandate will jeopardize access to care for the 1.2 million Americans living in more than 15,000 certified nursing homes nationwide \u2013 especially those who reside in rural and underserved areas.[2] Our nation\u2019s nursing homes have weathered an unprecedented storm over the past three years. From government spending induced inflation to pandemic provider burnout, community access to long-term care (LTC) services has been strained. Since January 2020, over 400 nursing homes closed their doors and approximately 190,000 nursing home employees left the workforce. Alarmingly, this trend shows little sign of abatement.[3],[4] Given this current landscape, the Administration\u2019s proposal will only serve to further undermine patient access to skilled nursing care. As such, we strongly urge you to withdraw the rule and work with us on tailored solutions addressing the severe health care workforce shortages in our states.\n\nWhile the health care sector has generally seen a return to pre-pandemic employment levels, with estimated employment in the delivery system up as much as two percent since the start of the pandemic, the LTC sector has not. As previously noted, nearly two hundred thousand workers left the nursing home workforce, an approximate 10 percent decrease in total employment relative to pre-pandemic levels. Other industries within the health care sector, however, experienced a workforce rebound.[5]\n\nIt is, therefore, shocking to see the Administration assume that an available, trained workforce is sitting on the sidelines \u2013 ready to immediately fill these gaps within the next three to five years. According to KFF, over 80 percent of all nursing facilities nationwide would fail to meet the proposed 0.55 registered nurse hours per resident per day (HPRD) and 2.45 nurse aide HPRD direct care staffing mandate. Most facilities would need to hire additional staff in order to come into compliance with the rule.[6] Given the staffing losses that the LTC industry has faced, it seems unlikely that many of these facilities would ever be able to find enough employees to meet the proposed minimum staffing mandates.\n\nNot only does the proposed rule fail to account for the availability of trained staff, but it also ignores diverse challenges facing the skilled nursing sector. There is zero flexibility for nursing facilities to determine the most effective and efficient ways to distribute direct care staff and meet individual resident needs. In applying a uniform, minimum staffing ratio to all facilities, regardless of size or case-mix, the proposed rule could incentivize some facilities to overstaff in order to meet arbitrary federal thresholds. This risks diverting qualified nurses away from small, rural and underserved facilities that also must hire additional employees, running counter to the stated intent of the proposal. Furthermore, the rule\u2019s sole reliance on registered nurses (RNs) and nurse aide (NAs) to provide direct patient care, while overlooking the value that other providers, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), offer to residents, could lead to a maldistribution of staff and ineffectively divert resources away from an individual facility\u2019s optimum staffing structure.\n\nComplying with the rule will not only be predicated on facilities finding enough workers, but will also require a staggering increase in spending. CMS projects that the policies proposed in the rule will impose a $40.6 billion unfunded mandate on LTC providers over the next decade, with federal spending in Medicaid alone accounting for over half of these costs. This calculation, however, fails to account for State spending that would be incurred due to State adherence to federal matching requirements. Eventually patients will be forced to pay even more out-of-pocket as facilities inevitably pass these additional costs on to consumers in the form of higher prices.\n\nPerhaps required ratios and increased costs would have some merit if the research that informed the agency\u2019s rulemaking specifically called for them. Instead, the final report from Abt Associates, which the Agency cites as its rationale to impose these policies, states that there is \u201cno obvious plateau at which quality and safety are maximized or \u2018cliff\u2019 below which quality and safety decline\u201d. The Administration\u2019s own study is clear that there is no significant correlation between any given staffing ratio and increased quality outcomes for residents. In fact, the report goes on to say that the percentage of lower quality facilities (i.e. those in the lowest quartile of safety and care) would only change by as much as one percent under such staffing ratios.[7] These data call into question why the agency would place an unprecedented unfunded mandate on nursing facilities and the States while also acknowledging such a marginal expected increase in patient outcomes and quality.\n\nAmid these troubling practicalities of the rule, CMS is also blatantly overstepping Congress\u2019 sole authority to set staffing requirements. Sections 1819 and 1919 of the Social Security Act require skilled nursing facilities and nursing facilities to provide licensed nursing services \u201cat least 8 consecutive hours a day, 7 days a week.\u201d[8] While the statute explicitly authorizes the HHS Secretary to waive this requirement under certain enumerated conditions, the statute does not allow the Secretary to issue regulatory requirements that set a floor exceeding the statutory minimum. If there is to be any change to nursing home staffing levels, it will be at the discretion of Congress to make such a change or provide the Secretary such authority.\n\nGiven the concerns outlined above, we again urge you to immediately withdraw the proposed rule. We also request that you provide us with the following information no later than November 30, 2023:\n\nPlease cite the specific rationale for CMS\u2019 belief that it has statutory authority to establish a minimum staffing threshold exceeding what the SSA outlines under current law.\n\nThe proposed rule fails to include any discussion, data, research, or economic impact analysis showing the number of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and nursing facilities (NFs) that will be forced to close due to the Administration\u2019s $40.6 billion unfunded mandate. Given the sizeable costs that SNFs and NFs will be forced to bear if this policy is finalized, please provide estimates of the number of facilities, broken down by state, that are expected to go out of business due to the policies contained in the proposed rule.\n\nIf the Administration had a specific rationale for failing to include this information, please provide a detailed explanation why the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the CMS Chief Actuary did not account for facility closures in its economic modeling.\n\nThe proposed rule provides for delayed implementation of the requirements for nursing homes located in rural areas, three years for the 24/7 RN requirement and five years for the RN and NA minimum standard requirement.\n\nPlease provide a detailed summary of the analysis and rationale CMS used to determine those specific timelines.\n\nDoes CMS believe that staff shortages in rural areas will be alleviated by the time these requirements are implemented in rural areas? If not, why did CMS choose the timelines in the proposed rule?\n\nOn a September 15, 2023 call with congressional offices, CMS staff stated that the existing nursing home workforce, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, was sufficiently sized to meet the proposed staffing requirements. If this is the case, why did CMS delay implementation?\n\nWhy does the proposed rule rely on the U.S. Census Bureau\u2019s definition of \u201crural,\u201d rather than a definition that accounts for variations in staffing availability?\n\nDid CMS consider a definition that includes a measurement of access to care and, if so, why did CMS choose not to utilize such a definition?\n\nIf CMS considered alternative definitions, please provide a list of alternative definitions CMS considered.\n\nThe proposed rule contains a process by which a nursing home may receive an exemption from the RN/NA HPRD requirement but does not provide for an exemption from the 24/7 RN requirement in any case. Sections 1819 and 1919 of the Social Security Act allow the Secretary to waive the statutory floor for nursing care required in a skilled nursing facility or nursing facility (eight hours daily, seven days weekly). How will the requirements in the proposed rule, which seem to apply without exemption, interact with the statutory exception?\n\nThank you for your consideration of these comments as well as your assistance in responding to our data requests.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-colleagues-urge-president-biden-to-address-rise-in-terrorists-crossing-southern-border", "Crapo, Risch, Colleagues Urge President Biden to Address Rise in Terrorists Crossing Southern Border", "2023-10-30", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) sent a letter to President Joe Biden expressing deep concern about the rise in terrorists crossing the southern border and asking for plans to bolster border and internal security measures.\n\nIn addition to Crapo and Risch, Senators Todd Young (R-Indiana), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined the letter.\n\n\u201cOur Southern border is a matter of deep national concern and insecurity. With rising violence and economic crises around the world pushing many people towards our borders, the record levels of illegal crossings and the spike in Border Patrol apprehensions of individuals matching the U.S. terror watchlist are alarming,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cIn fiscal year 2023 alone, 169 migrants with positive terrorism watchlist matches were apprehended along our Southern border. This represents a tenfold increase from the figures reported in fiscal year 2021. Although the exact affiliations and identities of these individuals remain classified, the marked increase is alarming. Even if these apprehensions represent a minority, the potential devastation from a single individual with malign intentions cannot be overstated.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/29/id-e75764ef-50c4-44e5-a515-ecb0d768e087/", "Press Release: Congressman Fulcher to Host Congressional Town Hall Update in Kamiah", "2023-10-29", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 29, 2023\nKAMIAH \u2013\nCongressman Russ Fulcher will be in Kamiah at 1 p.m. PDT on Tuesday, October 31 at the Hearthstone Bakery for a Town Hall to meet with local constituents and provide an update on legislative activity in D.C.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/27/id-74894eb8-adf7-4131-b5c2-3fd4941b65d7/", "Press Release: Fulcher Joins Idaho Delegation Opposing Lava Ridge Wind Project", "2023-10-27", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Fulcher joined with the entire Idaho Congressional Delegation to introduce the \u201cDon\u2019t Develop Obstructive Infrastructure on our Terrain\u201d (Don\u2019t DO IT) Act. This legislation would prevent the Secretary of Interior from approving a wind or solar project on federal lands if the Legislature in the respective state has passed a resolution of disapproval. This legislation comes as the proposal to build a 400-turbine wind-generating facility in the Magic Valley in Eastern Idaho has been matched with strong opposition from Idaho residents.\n\nThe Idaho State Legislature has already adopted a resolution opposing this project with unanimous support. Congressman Russ Fulcher is joined by Rep. Mike Simpson (ID-02) in the House of Representatives in introducing the legislations alongside Senator James E. Risch and Senator Mike Crapo leading the same bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cI appreciate working with Congressman Simpson, Senator Risch, and Senator Crapo to prevent the federal government from trying to run roughshod over the State of Idaho when it comes to energy projects that can\u2019t make it on their own in the market. With my colleagues, I opposed the Lava Ridge Wind Project because it undermined Idahoans\u2019 way of life. I stand with my colleagues and the people of Idaho in supporting the Don\u2019t DO IT Act,\u201d said Rep. Fulcher.\n\n\u201cThe Lava Ridge Wind Project has proven to be out of touch with Idahoans,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThroughout the last year, I have taken significant actions in opposing this project and advocating for Idaho\u2019s best interests. The Don\u2019t DO IT Act is common-sense legislation that puts the people of Idaho first. I will always work to protect Idahoans\u2019 way of life, and I am proud to work with the Idaho Delegation and ensure the Magic Valley is not trampled by this proposal.\u201d\n\n\u201cIdahoans have been loud and clear on Lava Ridge: Don\u2019t DO IT! Yet, the Department of the Interior is still moving full speed ahead,\u201d said Sen. Risch. \u201cThe Don\u2019t DO IT Act will empower Idaho and other states to prevent the federal government from implementing unwanted, obstructive, and misaligned wind and solar energy projects on public land, like Lava Ridge.\u201d\n\n\u201cIdahoans know what is best for their land and livelihoods,\u201d said Sen. Crapo. \u201cAllowing state legislatures to have oversight on new wind and solar projects on federal land means the federal government and its agencies take into consideration the will of the people closest to the project.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Lava Ridge Wind Farm is a proposed 1000+ megawatt wind project planned for use on Bureau of land Management land in the counties of Jerome, Lincoln, and Minidoka (about 25 miles north east of Twin Falls). The Wind Farm is a project of Magic Valley Energy. The site in the counties of Jerome, Lincoln, and Minidoka may include up to 400 individual turbines. Alongside the individual turbines, there will also be the installation of election collection and transmission lines, substations, communications equipment, battery storage facilities, and operations and maintenance facilities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-simpson-fulcher-support-inclusion-of-chips-permitting-reform-in-defense-bill", "Crapo, Risch, Simpson, Fulcher Support Inclusion of Chips Permitting Reform in Defense Bill", "2023-10-27", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "BOISE, Idaho--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and U.S. Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher (all R-Idaho) joined 115 bicameral lawmakers to send a letter to Senate and House Armed Services Committees leaders urging them to preserve the Building Chips in America Act in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\nThe chips permitting bill, which passed as an amendment to the Senate NDAA in July, streamlines National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review requirements for semiconductor manufacturing projects to maximize the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act. Senate and House leaders are preparing to negotiate a final, compromise version of the NDAA that could pass both chambers and be signed into law. The letter urges Senate and House leaders to maintain the Senate-passed microchip permitting reforms in that final version.\n\n\u201cHistorically, NEPA reviews apply to projects that receive a significant portion of federal funding, giving the Federal government sufficient control over the project\u2019s outcome. This is not the case for the CHIPS program,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nFederal funding for CHIPS Act projects will comprise a minimal share of the cost, but they would still be deemed \u201cmajor federal actions.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis could halt or delay commencement of new projects, impacting the United States\u2019 ability to bolster its national security interests, economic growth, competitiveness, and technological leadership,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\n\u201cInterruptions and delays to semiconductor manufacturing projects would undermine the goals of the CHIPS Act and exacerbate risks to our economic and national security, without providing additional benefits for environmental protection. Therefore, we urge you to retain Section 1090G of S. 2226 in the final FY24 NDAA,\u201d they concluded.\n\nIn addition to Idaho\u2019s Congressional delegation, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Arizona), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Mark Warner (D-Virginia), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Todd Young (R-Indiana), and 94 members of the House of Representatives.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/26/id-132225a5-8de2-4eb7-8c3a-f6699b1ffbeb/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins The Nate Shelman Show On 670 KBOI", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 26, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Nate Shelman, broadcast on 670 AM and 9.31 FM, concerning the election of the Speaker of the House Mike Johnson of Louisiana on October 25th, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/26/id-3938d5ca-6eae-464c-abe8-64fa946833b2/", "Congressman Fulcher Urges Passage for H. Res. 771, In Support of Israel", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Recently, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 771, Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists, on a vote of 412 \u2013 10.\n\nCongressman Fulcher strongly urged the passage of H. Res. 771 on the floor of the House of Representatives: \u201cIn seeking to destroy Israel, Hamas has demonstrated it is nothing more than a brutal and muderous organization.\u201d Fulcher said. \u201cAttacking women and children, holding the elderly hostage, and launching unprovoked attacks is not only wrong but an evil that must be confronted.\u201d Fulcher continued.\n\nYou can view more of Congressman Fulcher\u2019s comments here:\n\nBackground:\n\nOn October 7th, 2023, Hamas, an Islamist terrorist group, attacked the State of Israel beyond the borders of Gaza inflicting heavy losses on civilian population centers. Hamas extracted hostages from Israel and terrorized peaceful communities. For decades, Hamas has used Gaza as a staging ground to threaten the State of Israel with the belief of genocidal eradication of Israel. The attacks on Israel are 50 years after the historic Yom Kippur Wars.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-and-colleagues-condemn-biden-administrations-decision-to-cede-us-digital-leadership-to-china", "Crapo and Colleagues Condemn Biden Administration\u2019s Decision to Cede U.S. Digital Leadership to China", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.\u2014Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Finance Committee members Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Todd Young (R-Indiana), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Trade Representative\u2019s (USTR) decision to end U.S. support for combatting China\u2019s predatory practices in international digital trade negotiations.\n\n\u201cWe have warned for years that either the United States would write the rules for digital trade or China would. Now, the Biden Administration has decided to give China the pen.\n\n\u201cThe USTR announced in Geneva that it will abandon support for proposals made during the Trump Administration to allow free data flows between countries. In so doing, USTR, which touts a \u2018Worker-Centered Trade Policy,\u2019 is choosing to side with China over the 8 million Americans who work in the digital economy and generate 10 percent of U.S. GDP. China made clear it opposes free data proposals precisely because it wants the right to require all data be stored under whatever terms China\u2019s laws or regulations may dictate, including forcing data to undergo government security reviews. China\u2019s laws and regulations routinely facilitate technology theft, human rights abuses and the loss of American jobs.\n\n\u201cThe Biden Administration\u2019s claim that it wants to ensure \u2018policy space\u2019 is spurious. The Trump Administration\u2019s proposals\u2014supported by a number of U.S. allies\u2014explicitly permit legitimate public policy regulation of how companies might handle customer data. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which passed Congress overwhelming, also includes these commitments. Unfortunately, the only party getting any \u2018space\u2019 here is China, and that space allows China to assume the leadership role formerly held by the United States.\n\n\u201cUSTR not only failed to consult with Congress, before reversing its policy on free data flows, but misled it. As recently as this weekend, USTR officials told congressional staff that they had not abandoned support for negotiating the free data flow commitments at issue.\n\n\u201cRegrettably, we are not surprised. This is simply one of the many instances where USTR fails to engage with Congress\u2014even though Congress has the constitutional responsibility for trade. Moreover, Ambassador Tai makes clear in her speeches and through her actions that foreign countries are free to discriminate against U.S. companies and workers as long as these countries and USTR can concoct an excuse. Failing to stand up for America and against foreign discrimination\u2014particularly from China\u2014is contrary to the USTR mission. We, however, will work, through Congress, to ensure the American people have the agency they need and deserve.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-applaud-resolution-honoring-national-womens-small-business-month", "Crapo, Risch Applaud Resolution Honoring National Women\u2019s Small Business Month", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Ranking Member and Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, in a resolution that recognizes October 2023 as National Women\u2019s Small Business Month and celebrates the contributions of female entrepreneurs. The Senate passed the resolution with unanimous support.\n\n\u201cWomen own approximately 59,635 small businesses in Idaho,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI proudly stand with my colleagues to unanimously recognize the effort, service and sacrifices women make to contribute to our economy and communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cIdaho\u2019s women-owned small businesses are central to our state\u2019s economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit,\u201d said Risch. \u201cI am proud to recognize women-owned small businesses and their role in making the Gem State thrive.\u201d\n\n\u201cUntil 1988, women needed a male relative to co-sign if they wanted to apply for a business loan. Now, in 2023, more than 12 million women-owned small businesses across the country are working hard each and every day to serve customers, create jobs, and boost their local economies,\u201d said Ernst. \u201cI will continue working to improve accountability at the Small Business Administration, expand access to childcare slots in our communities, and enhance mentorship opportunities for budding beginners and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. When our local businesses thrive, so does our country!\u201d\n\n\u201cWomen entrepreneurs are at the center of our economy creating new businesses, disrupting established industries and developing innovative products and platforms at a record pace. Despite positive trends, women-owned businesses still face significant institutional barriers like lack of access to quality childcare, fewer role models and mentors, a gender pay gap and unequal access to startup funding and financing,\u201d said Shaheen. \u201cAs a former small business owner, I know there is nothing that women cannot achieve if given an equal opportunity to compete. This resolution helps underscore our bipartisan commitment to help women-owned small businesses across the country reach their full economic and job-creating potential. Today \u2013 and every day \u2013 we must match that commitment with action.\u201d\n\nThe resolution highlights the significant contributions of women small business owners and entrepreneurs to the small business community:\n\nThere are over 12 million women-owned businesses in the United States;\n\nWomen-owned businesses generate $1.8 trillion in total receipts;\n\nWomen-owned businesses employ over $9.2 million workers; and\n\n38 percent of small businesses are women-owned.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-applaud-idaho-tech-hub-designation", "Crapo, Risch Applaud Idaho Tech Hub Designation", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) today commended the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center on its Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs) designation. The Inland Northwest\u2019s American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center has been selected as a Tech Hub as a result of Risch\u2019s legislation, the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) for America Act.\n\nThe CHIPS for America Act will restore semiconductor manufacturing back to American soil by increasing federal incentives to stimulate advanced chip manufacturing, enable cutting-edge research and development, secure the supply chain and bring greater transparency to the microelectronics ecosystem, create American jobs, and ensure long-term national security. The legislation created the Tech Hubs program to create regional opportunities to create and produce these technologies.\n\nIdaho is a leader in innovation and manufacturing with two--the Inland Northwest\u2019s American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Tech Hub and the Intermountain-West Consortium Tech Hub--calling it home.\n\n\"The Tech Hub program invests in Idaho students and industries as it drives regional innovation and job creation in a growing field needed to advance American competitiveness in a global marketplace,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cThis investment will allow Idaho to further create a destination for aerospace modernization and suppliers, advancing the U.S. aerospace supply chain from our backyard.\u201d\n\n\u201cSemiconductor production can and should be done in America, and the Inland Northwest is the right place to develop and produce this critical technology,\u201d said Risch. \u201cI congratulate the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center on its Tech Hubs designation. This selection is crucial to the Inland Northwest and will enable a strong domestic supply chain.\u201d\n\nThe American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Tech Hub aims to develop new domestic supply chains to meet the immediate demand for high-rate production of advanced composite aerostructures in defense and commercial markets. The Intermountain-West Nuclear Energy Consortium Tech Hub aims to position the West as a global leader in advanced nuclear energy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-hearing-on-paid-leave", "Crapo Statement at Hearing on Paid Leave", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing entitled \u201cExploring Paid Leave: Policy, Practice, and Impact on the Workforce.\u201d\n\nAs prepared for delivery:\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman.\n\n\u201cThis is an important hearing, as nearly every working American will need to take leave from work at some point in their career. The Finance Committee has previously explored this topic, including holding a Subcommittee hearing in 2018 and convening a paid leave working group organized by then-Chairman Grassley and Chairman Wyden.\n\n\u201cI was a member of that bipartisan working group, which sought to find the most sustainable path forward on family leave policies. As I noted at the time, I am committed to addressing the needs of working Americans, both inside and outside the home, while also ensuring that businesses have the flexibility they need to succeed, particularly in today\u2019s challenging economy.\n\n\u201cAs we will hear today, paid leave can greatly benefit workers and their families\u2014from improving employee morale to helping families meet caregiving responsibilities. However, there are many approaches to expanding paid leave, and the details matter.\n\n\u201cEmployers across the country are struggling to fill vital roles in their organizations, with nearly 9.6 million jobs remaining unfilled nationally. In a recent survey from the National Federation of Independent Business, 43 percent of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill in the current period.\n\n\u201cIn light of these workforce challenges, Congress must be careful not to interfere with employers\u2019 existing paid leave offerings, which play an important part in their efforts to recruit and retain workers.\n\n\u201cAccording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, 78 percent of private sector workers have access to paid sick leave and 79 percent have access to paid vacation. Additionally, 73 percent of small employers offer paid time off to the majority of their full-time employees, and 67 percent offer two weeks or more of leave.\n\n\u201cImposing a one-size-fits-all paid leave program could limit employers\u2019 ability to offer paid leave policies that meet the unique needs of their workforce or significantly diminish existing employer-provided paid leave altogether.\n\n\u201cCreating a new federal paid leave program also raises questions about implementation challenges and costs to taxpayers. States\u2019 experience standing up paid leave programs illustrate some of the challenges a new federal program could face.\n\n\u201cSeveral states that have enacted paid leave programs have had difficulty setting up even the most basic components of the program, leading to implementation delays.\n\n\u201cFor example, applicants in multiple states have experienced delays with getting their claims approved, with processing times in one state expected to increase from about five weeks to four months by 2025 absent additional staffing.\n\n\u201cOne state has had to repeatedly increase the revenue going to the program to avoid a funding deficit. And in another state, analysts have raised concerns that revenues may be too low to pay future benefits.\n\n\u201cEven though there are many challenges on this topic, the bipartisan work that continues from members on and off this Committee shows the importance of the issue.\n\n\u201cI appreciate the witnesses being here today, and I look forward to your testimony.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-delegation-introduces-bill-to-stop-lava-ridge-wind-energy-project", "Idaho Delegation Introduces Bill to Stop Lava Ridge Wind Energy Project", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch along with U.S. Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher (all R-Idaho) introduced the Don\u2019t Develop Obstructive Infrastructure on our Terrain (Don\u2019t DO IT) Act. The Don\u2019t DO IT Act would require the Secretary of the Interior deny any wind or solar energy project proposed on public land that is disapproved of by the State legislature.\n\nIdaho\u2019s State legislature unanimously passed a resolution in March 2023 expressing opposition to the Lava Ridge Wind Energy Project in Southern Idaho, a 370 turbine project spanning 146,000 acres. Among other concerns, the proposed Lava Ridge project would visually compromise the Minidoka National Historic Site, a relocation site where more than 120,000 Japanese-Americans were incarcerated during World War Two.\n\n\u201cIdahoans know what is best for their land and livelihoods,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cAllowing state legislatures to have oversight on new wind and solar projects on federal land means the federal government and its agencies take into consideration the will of the people closest to the project.\u201d\n\n\u201cIdahoans have been loud and clear on Lava Ridge: Don\u2019t DO IT! Yet, the Department of the Interior is still moving full speed ahead,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe Don\u2019t DO IT Act will empower Idaho and other states to prevent the federal government from implementing unwanted, obstructive, and misaligned wind and solar energy projects on public land, like Lava Ridge.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Lava Ridge Wind Project has proven to be out of touch with Idahoans,\u201d said Simpson. \u201cThroughout the last year, I have taken significant actions in opposing this project and advocating for Idaho\u2019s best interests. The Don\u2019t DO IT Act is common-sense legislation that puts the people of Idaho first. I will always work to protect Idahoans\u2019 way of life, and I am proud to work with the Idaho Delegation and ensure the Magic Valley is not trampled by this proposal.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-lead-effort-to-prohibit-esa-sage-grouse-listing", "Crapo, Risch Lead Effort to Prohibit ESA Sage-Grouse Listing", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) led their colleagues in a letter to Senate leadership urging the continued Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing prohibition for the greater sage-grouse.\n\n\u201cEach of the eleven western states which hold sage-grouse habitat have adopted their own collaborative, science-based conservation plans, tailored specifically to address localized landscape needs and recover the species,\u201d the letter read in part. \u201c[D]espite this transparent and scientific approach, the greater sage-grouse has constantly been the subject of continuous litigation and baseless, counterproductive listing petitions for years.\u201d\n\nThe State of Idaho\u2019s sage-grouse conservation plan has consistently received high marks from Democrat and Republican administrations alike. However, without an ESA listing prohibition, greater sage-grouse remain subject to a cycle of activist litigation that costs taxpayers and undermines states\u2019 conservation efforts. In an effort to combat this, a listing prohibition has been included in every annual appropriations bill since fiscal year 2015 to allow state conservation efforts to proceed.\n\nThe letter was also signed by Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming) and Mike Lee (R-Utah).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-scott-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-foreign-land-purchase-review-process", "Crapo, Scott, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Strengthen Foreign Land Purchase Review Process", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) to introduce the Protect Our Bases Act to ensure the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) can review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence, and national laboratory sites by requiring member agencies to annually update and review their lists of these sites.\n\n\u201cIdaho is home to the world-renowned Idaho National Laboratory and military bases and installations responsible for research, development and training of critical national security importance,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cWe must protect sensitive military and government sites from encroachment by foreign adversaries on our own land.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Chinese Communist Party can\u2019t be allowed to compromise the security of military and government facilities on our home turf,\u201d said Scott. \u201cBy enhancing the review of foreign real estate transactions near sites that are vital to U.S. national security, this legislation will increase accountability to help ensure the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States can take proper action to push back on Communist China and keep our nation safe.\u201d\n\nThe bill is co-sponsored by Senators Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee) and Katie Britt (R-Alabama).\n\nIn 2022, Fufeng Group, a Chinese company with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, announced it would purchase land near Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) determined that it could not evaluate the transaction for national security risks because the Department of Defense had not listed the base as a sensitive site for national security purposes. Although the City of Grand Forks ultimately blocked the transaction, the incident demonstrated a significant flaw in the review process of foreign land purchases. CFIUS relies on its member agencies to provide updated information on sensitive military, intelligence, and national laboratory sites in order to properly assess the security risk of foreign investment in our country. If CFIUS member agencies do not appropriately update their site lists, CFIUS cannot ensure an accurate review.\n\nThe Protect Our Bases Act requires agencies represented on CFIUS to provide updated records of the military, intelligence, and national laboratory facilities that should be sensitive sites for national security purposes to CFIUS on an annual basis. Additionally, the legislation requires CFIUS to submit an annual report to Congress certifying the completion of such reviews and the accuracy of its real estate listings.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-colleagues-end-the-flow-of-fentanyl-through-facebook", "Crapo, Colleagues: End the Flow of Fentanyl Through Facebook", "2023-10-23", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and six additional colleagues in demanding Meta CEO Mark Zuckerburg put an end to the public sale of fentanyl precursor chemicals on Facebook and Instagram. Currently, social media users can find numerous posts advertising these chemicals with tag lines like \u201chome delivery service\u201d and \u201c100%\u201d custom clearance rate with a single click of a button.\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers also pointed out that China remains the principal source of U.S. fentanyl and its precursors.\n\nThe lawmakers wrote, \u201cWe write to express grave concerns about the public sale of fentanyl precursor chemicals on Facebook and Instagram, both of which are owned by your company Meta. Fentanyl overdoses claim the lives of roughly 70,000 Americans each year. It is incumbent upon all of us to do more to stamp out this scourge on our society. That is why it is so disappointing to see one of the biggest tech companies in the world permitting\u2014willfully or tacitly\u2014the sale of these dangerous chemicals on your platforms.\u201d\n\nThey continued, \u201cSocial media companies have a responsibility to help prevent dangerous chemicals from getting into the hands of bad actors and Americans of all ages. As the Department of Justice notes, \u2018[d]ismantling illicit online drug marketplaces and holding responsible corporations \u2013 including responsible executives \u2013 who enable these illicit drug marketplaces, is critical to preventing overdoses and stemming the flow of dangerous drugs into our communities.\u2019\u201d\n\n\"As Facebook turns a blind eye to fentanyl dealers distributing precursor chemicals on its platform, Americans are left to deal with the ever-growing danger of the drug\u2019s increased presence in our country. This letter rightfully questions Facebook\u2019s failure to curb drug sales and brings much-needed attention to the role social media plays in the opioid crisis. We encourage all senators to support this effort to save American lives and get fentanyl off the streets,\u201d said Ryan Walker, Executive Vice President, Heritage Action.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/industry-support-for-legislation-to-rescind-biden-ev-mandate-grows", "Industry Support for Legislation to Rescind Biden EV Mandate Grows", "2023-10-20", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--Support from energy and automobile industry groups continues to grow for the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act, led in the Senate by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska). The legislation would prevent efforts by the Biden Administration to impose a de facto electric vehicle mandate, and would ensure Americans have access to choose the vehicles that meet their needs. Representative Tim Walberg (R-Michigan) first introduced the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives on July 6, 2023. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce advanced the bill to the full House on September 1, 2023.\n\n\u201cThe Idaho Automobile Dealers Association strongly endorses the CARS Act. Our dealers recognize that our Idaho and US citizens and customers should have a choice in the automobiles they purchase, whether they be an EV, a hybrid, or an internal combustion engine powered vehicle. These decisions are best made by free markets, the free, local markets in our communities, and not through bureaucratic overregulation made by federal agencies in Washington DC.\u201d \u2013 Jim Addis, Idaho Automobile Dealers Association\n\n\u201cOur industries and communities are better served by access to affordable, reliable, and efficient means of transportation. The EPA\u2019s proposed rules to establish stringent emissions standards would extremely limit the number of reliable equipment and transportation choices for our farmers, ranchers, and communities where they live. We applaud Sen. Crapo and all those sponsoring the CARS Act for pushing back against these proposed rules that would hurt families and businesses in our state and across the country.\u201d \u2013 Bryan Searle, President, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s proposal to ban most gasoline, diesel, flex fuel and hybrid vehicles is bad for consumers, bad for our economy and indefensible from a national security perspective. Congress never provided EPA with such sweeping authority, which the CARS Act makes undoubtedly clear. AFPM commends Senators Crapo and Ricketts for their leadership in tackling this issue. The CARS Act will preserve consumer choice and allow individuals and families to continue selecting the cars and trucks that work best for them. Under this legislation, EPA would retain the ability to set ambitious, technology-neutral vehicle emission standards, but those standards may not be manipulated to force vehicle electrification.\u201d \u2013 Chet Thompson, President and CEO, American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers\n\n\u201cWe welcome Sen. Crapo\u2019s and Sen. Ricketts\u2019 efforts to safeguard Americans\u2019 freedoms and prevent the EPA from imposing a de facto ban on the sale of new vehicles that use gasoline and other liquid fuels. The Senate should work expeditiously to pass The Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act, to ensure the EPA\u2019s intrusive government policy doesn\u2019t limit American families\u2019 access to affordable and reliable vehicle options.\u201d \u2013 Amanda Eversole, Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer, American Petroleum Institute\n\n\"SEMA thanks Sens. Crapo and Ricketts for introducing this important bill to ensure that the American people can continue to choose the type of motor vehicle that best serves their needs. The automotive aftermarket has a forward-looking vision that embraces new technology to make vehicles cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, electric, alternative fuels and continuing to improve the internal-combustion engine. Congress must pass the CARS Act to ensure federal policies that seek to decarbonize transportation are technology neutral and not favoring one technology over the other.\u201d \u2013 Mike Spagnola, CEO, Specialty Equipment Market Association\n\n\"We must preserve consumer choice, maintain safety, and enable healthy competition in auto markets by ensuring Americans have access to reliable and affordable vehicles. The Biden administration continues restricting an individual\u2019s agency by effectively mandating a sales ban on combustion engine vehicles, instead favoring \u201czero-emission vehicles\u201d. Sens. Crapo and Ricketts\u2019 bill pushes back against Biden\u2019s EPA emissions rule and closes the loophole exploited through the Clean Air Act that hurts American families.\" \u2013 Ryan Walker, Executive Vice President, Heritage Action\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris EPA is continuing their regulatory blitz on small-business truckers and attempting to force truckers into purchasing costly alternative vehicles. It\u2019s baffling that the EPA is pushing forward with more impractical emissions timelines without first addressing the overwhelming concerns with electric CMVs such as the absence of a national charging infrastructure network for heavy-duty trucks. OOIDA supports Senators Crapo and Ricketts\u2019 legislation that will reign in EPA\u2019s overreach and protect consumer choice. Clean air is a priority for everyone, but any new regulations must ensure that vehicles are reliable and affordable for professional truckers.\u201d \u2013 Todd Spencer, President, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senator Crapo for the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2023, which ensures Americans the ability to choose their vehicle of choice. We need innovations from all types of technology to get the best results for our environment and our economy. Senators Crapo and Ricketts\u2019 bill would allow that to happen and would prevent a regulator from prematurely deciding that only one specific technology is worthy of investment.\u201d \u2013 Paige Anderson, Director of Government Relations, National Association of Convenience Stores\n\n\u201cThe National Propane Gas Association applauds Senator Crapo and Senator Ricketts for supporting alternative fuel vehicles, like propane, by introducing the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act of 2023. Propane stands as an affordable and abundant fuel, presenting a viable alternative in any city nationwide. Even the Department of Energy notes transitioning to alternative fuels, such as propane, can deliver long-term financial and maintenance savings. Consumers should be able to choose the best fuel for their circumstances, and the CARS Act allows them to continue to have that choice.\u201d \u2013 Michael Baker, Vice President of Legislative Affairs, National Propane Gas Association\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s vital to America\u2019s functioning that the trucking sector has access to reliable commercial vehicles. The CARS Act ensures that diesel-engine trucks remain an option until the market, not bureaucrats, decides otherwise. NASTC commends Senator Mike Crapo and Senator Pete Ricketts for their legislation to halt misguided, disruptive regulatory overreach.\u201d \u2013 David Owen, President, National Association of Small Trucking Companies\n\nFull text of the bill can be found HERE. Initial news release of the bill can be found HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-joins-bill-to-bolster-rural-forestry-workforce", "Crapo Joins Bill to Bolster Rural Forestry Workforce", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Angus King (I-Maine), co-chairs of the Senate Working Forests Caucus, to introduce legislation to improve forest industry employment and participation through a grant program aimed at rural and underserved communities. The Jobs in the Woods Act would support developmental programs designed to better equip and train the forest products workforce for careers with the U.S. Forest Service and timber industries. Nationally, the forest products industry employs roughly 925,000 people directly and supports nearly 2 million jobs indirectly.\n\n\u201cIdaho\u2019s forest sector is responsible for thousands of jobs, including loggers and timber haulers whose careers sustain many of our rural communities,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cPromoting and protecting this industry and its workforce is vital to forest management, fire prevention and the economic success of our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaintaining a robust and skilled forestry workforce is essential to Idaho\u2019s forest and economic health,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe Jobs in the Woods Act will empower our rural communities to build up the timber workforce with educational and training programs to ensure Idaho continues to effectively manage our forests and prevent catastrophic wildfires for years to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaine\u2019s forestry industry has been foundational for our state economy for generations, and is critical to our continued economic success,\u201d said King. \u201cAs the industry continues to evolve, we must ensure our forestry workforce has the proper training and skills to help responsibly manage our forests while growing our local economies. The bipartisan Jobs in the Woods Act will make substantial investments to support new and innovative workforce programs \u2013 helping Maine people get good, quality jobs and securing the future of our state\u2019s timber industry.\u201d\n\nThe Jobs in the Woods Act is cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-ricketts-lead-legislation-pushing-back-on-radical-electric-vehicle-mandate", "Crapo, Ricketts Lead Legislation Pushing Back on Radical Electric Vehicle Mandate", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) introduced the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act to counter the Biden Administration\u2019s radical environmental agenda and executive overreach by preventing the implementation of a proposed rule and other regulations that seek to limit consumer vehicle choice.\n\n\u201cOnce again, the Biden Administration\u2019s rule-making process is being used to push a radical green agenda and pick winners and losers,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cAmericans deserve to have access to affordable, reliable vehicles fueled by American-made energy products. However, the Biden EPA\u2019s rule change would hurt everyday Americans while simultaneously helping China. Consequences of rules and regulations such as these restrict consumer choice and raise costs for the average American family.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe EPA cannot continue to pick winners and losers,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cThis legislation ensures the Biden administration can\u2019t prioritize their radical left agenda over affordable and reliable internal combustion engines. I\u2019ll always fight to protect Nebraskans\u2019 ability to choose what is best for them and their families.\u201d\n\nRepresentative Tim Walberg (R-Michigan) introduced the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives in July. The bill was reported to the full House by the House Energy and Commerce Committee on September 1, 2023.\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration is willingly ceding American auto leadership to China by pursuing this misguided mandate,\u201d said Walberg. \u201cMany American families would simply be priced out of the auto market due to these quotas. On top of those issues, American manufacturing jobs will also be lost due to this government-mandated transition. We must block this rule and allow consumers and innovators to shape the future rather than bureaucrats. I look forward to my continued work with Senator Crapo as we fight for American auto leadership and consumer choice.\u201d\n\nCrapo and Ricketts are joined by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing the legislation.\n\n\u201cThe government should not be mandating to Americans what kind of cars and trucks they are allowed to buy, lease, and drive,\u201d said Capito. \u201cIn addition to high sticker prices and a lack of a sufficiently operational charging infrastructure, the Biden administration failed to take into account that electric vehicles currently rely on China for raw materials and on the same baseload power plants the EPA is simultaneously trying to close down. The Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act prevents these misguided emissions standards from taking effect and preserves freedom for American consumers.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe cannot allow the EPA to continue to impose oppressive and careless regulations that increase our dependence on foreign adversaries like China and make everyday necessities more expensive for Americans and their families. I waited in line for gas in the 70s because America was too reliant on foreign oil, and I refuse to risk one day waiting in line for a Chinese battery,\u201d said Manchin. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation would rescind this federal overreach and protect access to traditional, affordable vehicles. As Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, I will continue to lead the fight against EPA\u2019s radical climate agenda to protect our energy, national and economic security.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration should not dictate which car Idahoans can purchase with their own hard-earned money, yet they are aiming to do just that with their radical green agenda,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act puts an end to this insanity by ensuring families can purchase a vehicle that suits their needs.\u201d\n\n\u201cFrom day one, this administration has been strangling the people of Wyoming with restrictive red tape and eroding their freedoms,\u201d said Lummis. \u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s latest executive overreach is a thinly-veiled attempt to force the people of Wyoming into driving expensive electric vehicles at a time when they\u2019re already struggling to keep up with soaring inflation rates. American families\u2014not the federal government\u2014are the ones best suited to choose a vehicle that meets their needs, and I\u2019m joining Senator Crapo in an effort to preserve consumer\u2019s choice.\u201d\n\n\u201cYet again, the Biden Administration is prioritizing its leftwing, costly Green New Deal agenda over what is best for families and small businesses in Alabama. This proposed rule is impractical and punitive for hardworking Americans who simply want to be able to choose the car that makes the most sense for their own individual circumstances, needs, and preferences. As President Biden continues to prove how wildly out of touch his reckless policies are with the harsh realities facing our nation\u2019s families, I will not stop fighting for common sense to prevail,\u201d said Britt.\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s radical far left policies are driving up costs, killing jobs, and crushing hard-working North Carolinians and families across the country,\u201d said Budd. \u201cI want to thank Senator Crapo for his leadership in introducing the CARS Act push back against the EPA\u2019s executive overreach and protect the ability of Americans to choose the vehicle that best meets their needs and that they can afford.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s climate zealots are intent on forcing unrealistic, expensive regulations on Americans designed to change the most basic facets of life, even the type of car they can buy,\u201d said Cramer. \u201cIt\u2019s absurd to think this somehow benefits middle-class Americans, who are already feeling the squeeze of \u2018Bidenflation\u2019 on their wallets. Not to mention, EVs barely work in the cold and lack the range to traverse a large rural state like North Dakota. We need to put a stop to this forced and dangerous agenda by prohibiting the EPA from any further attempts to mandate EVs.\u201d\n\n\u201cWorking families are already struggling under Joe Biden\u2019s inflation, at a cost of nearly $1,000 a month,\u201d said Tuberville. \u201cNow Joe Biden is trying to force them to buy electric vehicles, which cost about $60,000 on average. The American people can\u2019t afford this. Electric vehicles might be a good choice in San Francisco, but we shouldn\u2019t force them on Alabama.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s no secret that Biden\u2019s EPA habitually imposes standards that do more harm than good to industry, and this latest tailpipe emissions scheme is the most aggressive yet. It reeks of central government planning that would be more at home in a nondemocratic country,\u201d said Hyde-Smith. \u201cThis legislation is our effort to check this executive overreach that would only further disrupt markets, add to an already injured supply chain, and limit consumer choices.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Biden has consistently pursued a radical environmental agenda at the expense of the American people,\u201d said Wicker. \u201cAt a time of unprecedented inflation, taxpayers cannot afford another attack on their pocketbooks. This legislation would stop the administration\u2019s misguided rule in its tracks.\u201d\n\n\u201cArkansans are paying more for food, energy and every day essentials. These new restrictions add fuel to the fire and will drive the cost of vehicles even higher. The CARS Act will rein in this overreaching policy and protect affordability and consumer choice,\u201d said Boozman.\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s woke proposal to block the sale of gas powered cars benefits Chinese manufacturing and hurts America\u2019s industry,\u201d said Kennedy. \u201cI\u2019m proud to support the CARS Act to stop the EPA\u2019s radical rule, which would make the American dream more expensive for millions of hard working people in our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cImposing unworkable mandates on car manufacturers will mean higher costs and fewer choices for U.S. consumers, while resulting in older, less efficient vehicles remaining on the road,\u201d said Hoeven. \u201cThat\u2019s the wrong path forward for our nation. Instead of burdensome and costly federal rules, we should work to build a business environment that fosters innovation and choice in the marketplace.\u201d\n\nOn April 12, 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a draft rule titled \u201cMulti-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles,\u201d which sets stringent emissions standards for criteria pollutants and greenhouse gasses for certain vehicles. This rule is the most aggressive tailpipe emissions proposal ever crafted and a de facto mandate for mass production of electric vehicles (EVs). The EPA has projected that, if finalized, over two-thirds of all new vehicles could be electric by 2032.\n\nThe average price of an EV is over $17,000 more than the average price of a gas-powered vehicle, according to data from Kelley Blue Book. The Administration\u2019s continued push for EVs threatens to hurt everyday Americans and costs auto workers their jobs while simultaneously helping China, given that China continues to dominate the EV supply chain.\n\nThe Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act:\n\nWould prohibit the EPA from finalizing, implementing or enforcing its proposed emissions rule;\n\nWould prohibit the use of authority under the Clean Air Act to issue regulations that mandate the use of any specific technology or that limit the availability of new motor vehicles based on that vehicle\u2019s engine type. This includes any regulation prescribed on or after January 1, 2021;\n\nWould require the EPA to update any regulations since January 1, 2021, that result in the limited availability of new vehicles based on that vehicle\u2019s engine within two years; and\n\nWould end the EPA\u2019s radical agenda, which is driving up costs for people and handing the keys of America\u2019s auto industry to China.\n\nThe bill is supported by the American Petroleum Institute, American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers, National Propane Gas Association, National Association of Convenience Stores, National Association of Truck Stop Operators, SIGMA: America\u2019s Leading Fuel Marketers, Idaho Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association, Energy Marketers of America, American Exploration and Production Council, American Energy Alliance, Western Energy Alliance, National Taxpayers Union, National Association of Small Trucking Companies, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Idaho Farm Bureau, American Farm Bureau, National Corn Growers Association, National Automobile Dealers Association, Idaho Automobile Dealers Association, Texas Automobile Dealers Association, Montana Automobile Dealers Association, Specialty Equipment Market Association, Heritage Action and Americans for Prosperity.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-smith-and-neal-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-taiwan-tax-bill", "Crapo, Wyden, Smith and Neal Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Taiwan Tax Bill", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Chair Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), with House Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith (R-Missouri) and Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-Massachusetts), formally introduced legislation to relieve double-taxation of investments between the U.S. and Taiwan.\n\n\u201cWithout question, deepening ties with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy is in our nation\u2019s best interests,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cBuilding off of the Finance Committee\u2019s unanimous support last month to strengthen those economic ties and encourage cross-border investment, today\u2019s introduction in both the Senate and the House marks an important next step in unlocking opportunities to help workers and businesses of all sizes get ahead in both the U.S. and Taiwan. In Idaho and throughout our country, our economic and strategic relationship with Taiwan is as important as ever, and I look forward to continuing our work to get this bill expeditiously passed into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s a no-brainer for U.S. jobs and for America\u2019s national security to strengthen our economic partnership with Taiwan,\u201d said Wyden. \u201cToday is another important step forward toward relieving double-taxation on activityb between the U.S. and Taiwan, and supercharging chip manufacturing in America. It\u2019s not every day you see the bipartisan leaders of Finance and Ways and Means come together to introduce legislation. I\u2019m committed to continue working closely with Ranking Member Crapo, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neal to get our legislation over the finish line.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican and Taiwanese workers and businesses need relief from the double-tax burdens they face when operating across our borders,\u201d said Smith. \u201cThis legislation will encourage greater investment in our communities and create jobs while promoting prosperity for America and a key economic partner. By providing greater certainty for businesses small and large investing overseas, we can strengthen the foundation of our economic partnership in a key region of the world.\u201d\n\n\u201cAddressing cross-border economic burdens currently faced by American and Taiwanese businesses is urgent, and today\u2019s legislation not only reflects the expertise of both sides of the tax-writing Committees in Congress but also will provide relief to workers and businesses in both jurisdictions,\u201d said Neal. \u201cThe U.S.-Taiwan alliance is ripe for expanded investment, and this bipartisan, bicameral effort will strengthen ties, lead to more jobs, and spur the manufacturing industry. Passing much-needed legislation like this is exactly why House Republicans need to join with Democrats in finding a bipartisan path forward to get the House back up and running.\u201d\n\nThe U.S.-Taiwan Expedited Double Tax Relief Act passed unanimously out of the Senate Finance Committee last month. Earlier this year Congress overwhelmingly passed legislation to approve a new trade agreement with Taiwan, in another strong show of support for the U.S.-Taiwan alliance.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/senate-unanimously-passes-crapo-backed-resolution-in-support-of-israel", "Senate Unanimously Passes Crapo-backed Resolution in Support of Israel", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) released the following statement today after the Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution in support of Israel:\n\n\u201cIsrael is a critical ally of the United States, and I remain united with my colleagues in Congress as strong advocates for Israel\u2019s right to defend itself from existential threats by hostile parties,\u201d Crapo said. \u201cThe United States and our allies have a responsibility to unequivocally condemn Hamas\u2019 war on Israel. We must deprive Hamas and other terrorist organizations of Iranian-backed funding and lethal assistance the groups rely on to threaten Israel.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-backs-legislation-to-freeze-6-billion-to-iran-probe-additional-iranian-assets", "Crapo Backs Legislation to Freeze $6 Billion to Iran, Probe Additional Iranian Assets", "2023-10-17", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), senior member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, joined Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) and 22 additional colleagues to introduce the Revoke Iranian Funding Act to rescind the general licenses that enabled the release of the $6 billion to Iran and prevent the Iranian regime from accessing and using the funds held in Qatar to finance terrorist attacks against Israel or any other nation. In addition, the bill directs the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury to study all high-value Iranian assets around the world currently blocked by U.S. sanctions and provide that information to Congress, ensuring Congress has the information necessary to enact further targeted legislation, if necessary.\n\n\u201cMoney is fungible. Guarantees that unfrozen assets cannot be used to fuel Iran\u2019s global support for terrorist warfare against Americans and other innocent civilians simply do not exist,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cThe United States must not release the $6 billion in Iranian assets. While the announcement of an understanding with Qatar to freeze the funds is a positive step, more must be done. Our legislation would codify in law what the Administration cannot guarantee--that Iran will not see a single dollar from the United States to use for funding terrorism across the globe.\u201d\n\nCrapo maintains that Iran\u2019s access to fungible funds or assets--those which can be replaced and used for other purposes when provided access to additional funding or assets--will allow Iran to shift around its spending priorities and use the $6 billion of unfrozen funds for purposes of conducting worldwide terrorism. Previously, on August 18, Senator Crapo joined Ranking Member Scott and other colleagues to demand answers from the Biden Administration after it announced the release of $6 billion to Iran.\n\nAdditional co-sponsors of the legislation include Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Arizona), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Katie Britt (R-Alabama) and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska).\n\nRead an overview of the bill here and a section-by-section here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-delegation-urges-blm-to-correct-interpretation-of-aquifer-recharge-law", "Idaho Delegation Urges BLM to Correct Interpretation of Aquifer Recharge Law", "2023-10-17", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher (all R-Idaho) today urged the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to correct their interpretation of a law designed to enable aquifer recharge.\n\n\u201cThe BLM\u2019s current interpretation of the [ Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act] precludes the [Idaho Water Resources Board (IWRB)] from using existing rights of way for aquifer recharge purposes. Further, it goes against the spirit of the plain language of the Act,\u201d the delegation wrote. \u201c[. . .T]his interpretation severely limits the ability of aquifer recharge to be an effective water conservation tool not only in Idaho, but in states across the West who may look to follow Idaho\u2019s example.\u201d\n\nThe Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act was introduced in the 116th Congress by Risch and Fulcher and became law in 2020.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/16/id-10216fe3-060f-41ea-8f2e-d6ef77ad568f/", "Rep. Fulcher Joins Host Brianna Keilar on CNN News Central", "2023-10-16", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/12/id-00095b66-0b5b-4067-9f7e-f3357c7a35c0/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins With Kevin Miller On 580 KIDO Regarding Israel, Speaker\u2019s Race", "2023-10-12", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 12, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Kevin Miller, broadcast on 580 AM and 107.5 FM, about the Speaker of the House, terrorism in Israel, and future Congressional action on October 10th, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/12/id-2d555307-f84c-4487-833d-79aed26139bd/", "Video: Congressman Fulcher Joins With ABC News Live On Israel, Speaker\u2019s Race", "2023-10-12", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/11/id-0a374f59-dd1a-4340-9ff8-a59ccd954cf0/", "Video: Congressman Fulcher On The Future Speaker Of The House", "2023-10-11", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 11, 2023\nIn a video, Congressman Russ Fulcher urges his fellow colleagues to support Representative Jim Jordan of Ohio for Speaker of the House released on October 11th, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/10/id-248d47d8-d1b4-4c1e-938b-8a02f3089680/", "Congressman Fulcher\u2019s Statement On Israel", "2023-10-10", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 10, 2023\nCongressman Russ Fulcher released the following statement concerning the State of Israel:\n\u201cIsrael is a long-standing ally of the United States. As the only democratic country in the Middle East, I fully support Israel\u2019s response to the acts of terrorism by Hamas on the anniversary of the Yom Kippur War. To be clear, Hamas does not seek peace with its neighbor but rather genocidal eradication of Israel.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/10/id-d9223b24-bb6b-46cd-b9b4-6c9aac8da038/", "Congressman Fulcher\u2019s Statement On Speaker Of The House", "2023-10-10", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/06/id-438ee1c9-5e09-4a95-bf7d-4b216a34d0dd/", "Fulcher, WC Members Push For Extension of EIS Comment Period On Proposed Grizzly Bear NCE Population", "2023-10-06", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 6, 2023\nThe National Park Service and the Fish & Wildlife Service recently announced a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and an accompanying 10(j) proposal under the Endangered Species Act on establishing a Nonessential Experimental Population of the Grizzly Bear in the North Cascades Ecosystem in the State of Washington.\nThe Environmental Impact Statement is a document produced by the Federal Government (in this instance) that outlines the impact of a proposed action it wants to take. In this case, the Federal Government may introduce Grizzly Bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem. The North Cascades Ecosystem is entirely contained within the State of Washington. The North Cascades Ecosystem is primarily in the north-central part of the State.\nUnder a \u201c10(j)\u201d proposal, \u201cexperimental populations\u201d of an endangered species are to be reintroduced in a historic range of the animal under the Endangered Species Act. The Grizzly Bear, as a whole, has seen a rebound in their population, and the time to allow Western States to manage the Grizzly Bear under State-managed plans has long passed.\nAs an apex predator, the Grizzly Bear can adversely impact ecosystems if not appropriately managed by States. The Endangered Species Act has been used to retain species under listing for too long.\nCongressman Fulcher and Western Caucus Members recently sent a letter to the Fish & Wildlife Service and National Park Service asking for an extension of the public comment period for the EIS and two in-person meetings concerning the proposal to introduce Grizzly Bears in the North Cascades Ecosystem. You can read the full letter\nhere\n.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/03/id-72ffb79a-5a26-4af2-abc9-14590c2a1dd6/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins Neal Larson & Julie Mason On The \u201cMotion to Vacate\u201d Action", "2023-10-03", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 3, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher joins with Neal Larson and Julie Mason broadcast on Newstalk 107.9 FM based in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Congressman Fulcher addresses the \u201cMotion to Vacate\u201d action within the Republican Conference and on the House Floor on October 3rd, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/03/id-f84c5ad8-daf7-46f8-8acb-d8a0779646cb/", "Fulcher Joins With The Kevin Miller Show On Recent Congressional Actions", "2023-10-03", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 3, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Kevin Miller, broadcast on 580 AM and 107.5 FM, about Speaker McCarthy, the budget, energy, and a myriad of other issues on October 3rd, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/10/02/id-f267fd06-701b-437f-8263-414391c183c2/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins The Nate Shelman Show On 670 KBOI", "2023-10-02", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Oct 2, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Nate Shelman, broadcast on 670 AM and 9.31 FM, concerning recent developments with the federal budget, fire alarms, and Speaker Kevin McCarthy\u2019s status as Speaker of the House on October 2nd, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-introduce-resolution-to-celebrate-domestic-energy-producers", "Crapo, Risch Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Domestic Energy Producers", "2023-10-02", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) joined Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming) to introduce a resolution to designate October 4, 2023, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the men and women who work to power the United States.\n\n\u201cDomestic energy production is vital to our nation\u2019s prosperity and security,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI join in honoring the people who power America for their contributions that improve the quality of life here at home and around the world.\u201d\n\n\u201cFrom our hydroelectric capabilities to the cutting edge research done at the Idaho National Lab in advanced nuclear energy, Idaho has long been a leader in clean energy generation,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe National Energy Appreciation Day resolution is recognition of the safe, responsible, and reliable power that fuel our everyday lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery single day Wyoming energy producers work tirelessly to power our nation, and I am introducing this resolution to show the energy industry how much I appreciate everything they do to make our country a better place,\u201d said Lummis. \u201cAs this administration continues to put our domestic energy producers on the backburner with its war on American energy, it is essential that we pause to recognize and celebrate their invaluable contributions to our daily lives that we so often take for granted.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nAmerican energy plays an integral role in keeping energy affordable, reliable and efficient while also supporting economic growth and creating upward mobility. Not only have domestic energy advancements greatly reduced emissions, but widespread access to energy has more than doubled life expectancy and reduced the percentage of people living in poverty to less than 10%.\n\nThe American energy industry accounts for more than seven million jobs and ultimately supports more than ten million jobs across the United States.\n\nFederal oil and natural gas leases for offshore development brought in more than $22 billion for the federal government in 2022, and the U.S. oil and natural gas industry generates nearly $1.8 billion in gross domestic product annually.\n\nRead a copy of the resolution here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/09/30/id-61fb7b9a-b771-4f68-9936-fe1d843bb854/", "Congressman Fulcher\u2019s Statement On The Final Continuing Resolution", "2023-09-30", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Fulcher released the following statement:\n\n\u201cThe wide-open Southern Border continues to be the most dangerous exposure to the United States for human trafficking, terrorism, drugs, and illegal migrants to enter unabated. The White House\u2019s spending spree has crippled American families with high inflation and unsustainable energy prices. That\u2019s why conservatives voted to secure the Southern Border, restrain spending, and bring the House Floor to regular order in the appropriations process.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe House of Representatives has passed several appropriations bills over the last few months to fund more than 70% of the Federal Government. To be clear, Chuck Schumer\u2019s Senate has not passed any regular appropriation bills. Throughout this entire process, I have supported efforts to keep the government funded, control spending, and end chaos at the Southern Border. Unfortunately, the most recent Continuing Resolution does not address these pressing matters my constituents want addressed. Therefore, I opposed this final Continuing Resolution.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-statement-on-government-funding", "Crapo, Risch Statement on Government Funding", "2023-09-30", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) released the following statement after voting to fund the government temporarily while negotiations continue for a long-term appropriations solution:\n\n\"Government shutdowns hurt taxpayers,\" said Crapo and Risch. \"This legislation will keep the government's lights on while ensuring our troops and border agents receive the pay they have earned. During this time, we will continue to advocate for a long-term funding solution that saves taxpayer dollars and serves the needs of Idahoans.\"\n\nThe Continuing Resolution funds the government through November 17, 2023, and passed the Senate by a vote of 88-9.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/09/29/id-26174fa0-7b39-4553-8fdf-71ba4523e2d2/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins Kasper & Chris On Recent Budget Developments in D.C.", "2023-09-29", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Sep 29, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show hosts, Mike Kasper and Chris Walton, broadcast on 670 AM and 9.31 FM, concerning recent developments in Washington, D.C., on the federal budget. The recording takes place on September 29th, 2023. (Audio Courtesy of 670 KBOI).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-lee-introduce-legislation-to-combat-monument-overreach", "Crapo, Risch, Lee Introduce Legislation to Combat Monument Overreach", "2023-09-29", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) introduced legislation to reform the Antiquities Act of 1906 to ensure more transparent and accountable designations of national monuments.\n\nSince its inception, the Antiquities Act has been a tool to protect cultural and natural resources on public lands. Over the years, however, there have been instances where the Act\u2019s broad language has been used to unilaterally designate vast amounts of public land as national monuments without sufficient public input or Congressional oversight.\n\n\u201cThe intent of the Antiquities Act has been broadly and deliberately misinterpreted by Democrat administrations in order to push a brazen environmental agenda,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cIt is possible to protect our nation\u2019s resources without unnecessarily burdening communities, land managers, and ranchers. This legislation ensures the prioritization of economic development and curtails the efforts of the executive branch to unilaterally establish national monuments without the appropriate congressional oversight.\u201d\n\n\u201cDemocrat administrations have long exploited national monument designations to \u2018validate\u2019 executive overreach that disregards the needs and input of local communities, limits economic growth, and restricts use of millions of public acres,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe Congressional Oversight of the Antiquities Act will ensure Congress has a say in federal monument designations in order to prevent such rampant abuses of authority. This legislation will ensure Idaho\u2019s vast public lands continue to be managed for the benefit of all, regardless of the politics of the president.\u201d\n\n\"The text of the Antiquities Act was clear \u2013 to protect significant archaeological and historic sites, but to do so with discretion and to ensure that the designated area was confined to the smallest size necessary for their protection,\" Lee said. \"Regrettably, we have seen designations that far exceed this directive, impacting millions of acres and the lives of many in the West. My bill aspires to bring clarity and balance to this process, honoring both our historic legacy and the voices of affected communities.\"\n\nThis legislation has received endorsements by the American Farm Bureau Foundation, National Cattlemen\u2019s Beef Association, Public Lands Council, American Forest Resource Council and Federal Forest Resource Coalition.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-the-passing-of-senator-dianne-feinstein", "Crapo Statement on the Passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein", "2023-09-29", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement on the news that U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-California) died Thursday:\n\n\u201cDianne Feinstein dedicated her life to public service and never wavered in that commitment. I will always remember her help and partnership on supporting the Idaho National Lab. She will be missed by many. I offer my condolences to her family, friends, staff and loved ones and pray they find peace and comfort in the difficult days ahead.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/09/28/id-b36c43b1-9fd4-4d17-b8fc-24d21ca5d1e3/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins The Kevin Miller Show On Recent Developments On The Budget, Southern Border, and Biden", "2023-09-28", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Sep 28, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Kevin Miller, broadcast on 580 AM and 107.5 FM, about recent developments in the House of Representatives. (Audio Courtesy of The Kevin Miller Show, KIDO)", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-receives-update-on-status-of-mia-servicemember-from-filer", "Crapo Receives Update on Status of MIA Servicemember from Filer", "2023-09-28", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) received news from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) that it had made progress on locating and identifying the possible wreckage site of Filer, Idaho, native First Lieutenant (Lt.) Frank P. \u201cBud\u201d Hayes. The DPAA is the agency primarily responsible for conducting research and recovery efforts for America\u2019s prisoners of war (POW)s and missing in action (MIA).\n\n\u201cWhile there are still no guarantees that the crash site being explored by the DPAA will yield positive identification of Lt. Hayes and his co-pilot, Lt. Jack Leonard, the Agency\u2019s recent discovery is a positive step forward in the hope of bringing them home,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cNo effort to bring home America\u2019s missing servicemembers is easy, but every one of those efforts is critical to respecting their service and supporting military families. I continue to pray that the ongoing search will allow Lt. Hayes\u2019s family to return him back home to Idaho and finally lay him to rest peacefully.\u201d\n\n\u201cAlong with our extended family, we have been in touch with co-pilot Jack Leonard\u2019s family. On behalf of the Hayes and Leonard families we are all extremely grateful for the incredible dedication and invaluable assistance Senator Crapo and his office have provided over the years. And we are proud of the work of DPAA in locating the aircraft with hopes of soon bringing our loved ones home for full hero military honors,\u201d said Carla Grabert-Lowenstein, Lt. Hayes\u2019 niece.\n\nImage of First Lieutenant Frank \u201cBud\u201d P. Hayes provided courtesy of the Hayes family\n\nAt the end of World War II, Lieutenant Bud Hayes was on a PBY-Catalina, a \u201cflying boat,\u201d retrieving an Army reconnaissance unit off the coast of the Philippines when his aircraft was hit by a rogue wave, broke apart and sank. He, his co-pilot and another soldier are still classified as unaccounted for. Hayes and his emergency rescue team, during the final years of WWII, rescued over 700 downed airmen.\n\nThe DPAA recently shared an update with Senator Crapo\u2019s office indicating that a DPAA partner had conducted an underwater research in May of this year and may have discovered Lt. Hayes\u2019s wreckage. Senator Crapo and his staff have been in regular contact with the Hayes family since the Missing Air Crew Report (MACR) was found in Lt. Hayes\u2019s Official Military Personnel File. The MACR provided crucial information to DPAA and served as a catalyst to the recently-completed mission. The Agency plans to return sometime in 2024 to conduct further analysis. Details of the of search and recovery mission are limited in order to protect the security and safety of the mission. Senator Crapo and his office acknowledge that while there is good news and hope on the horizon, recovery of the missing Idaho soldier is still not guaranteed.\n\nSenator Crapo launched a social media campaign, #MilitaryMonday, on Veterans\u2019 Day 2019 to honor Idaho\u2019s veterans and servicemembers. He expanded his recognition to #MIAMonday this year to honor those still missing in action. This year\u2019s campaign featured Lt. Hayes in February 2023.\n\nSenator Crapo has made an enduring commitment to account for those missing, including his sponsorship of the Bring Our Heroes Home Act, which would eliminate obstacles preventing families and caseworkers from accessing the records needed for recovering America\u2019s POWs and MIA.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-scott-introduce-the-unnecessary-agency-regulations-reduction-act", "Crapo, Risch, Scott Introduce the Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act", "2023-09-28", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and Rick Scott (R-Florida) introduced the Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act to reduce burdensome government regulations and more efficiently dispose of outdated, duplicative or unnecessary agency regulations. This legislation will create a mechanism to eliminate multiple regulations originating from federal executive branch agencies in a joint resolution.\n\n\u201cAmerica is not made strong by a large central government that overspends,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cBy limiting the federal government\u2019s size and reach, we can help reduce spending and restore the balance of power established in the U.S. Constitution. Congress should advance legislation helping to take a fresh look at federal agency operations to identify how federal functions can be updated and simplified.\u201d\n\n\u201cBurdensome federal regulations and red tape hinder America\u2019s economic growth and diminish Idahoans\u2019 desire to pursue new entrepreneurial ventures,\u201d said Risch. \u201cIt is past time to weed out--like we have in Idaho--duplicative, outdated, and absurd regulations. With the Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act, Congress would create a streamlined process to monitor and audit federal regulations in order to more easily and quickly remove futile regulations that have long plagued business owners.\u201d\n\n\u201cWashington\u2019s complete dysfunction is on full display. Everywhere you look you see a confusing web of outdated regulations, duplicative processes and burdensome red tape within our federal agencies, some of which haven\u2019t been reviewed or used by these agencies for decades. It\u2019s inefficient and a complete waste of tax dollars,\u201d said Scott. \u201cOur Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act will streamline the federal government to make it work better for the American people. We did this in Florida when I was governor, cutting more than 5,000 burdensome regulations, and businesses thrived. With Joe Biden and Democrats\u2019 overreaching and inflation-fueling policies hurting American families, it\u2019s about time we bring this commonsense approach nationwide.\u201d\n\nSenators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) joined Risch, Crapo and Scott in cosponsoring this legislation.\n\nThe Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act is endorsed by Heritage Action, FreedomWorks, Americans for Prosperity, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the National Taxpayers Union, the R Street Institute, and the Competitive Enterprise Institute.\n\nThe Unnecessary Agency Regulations Reduction Act would create the following process:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/09/27/id-51f2d641-1bdb-4765-91e9-e747b02ff929/", "Fulcher Joins Western Congressional Caucus On Benefits of Geothermal During Clean Energy Week", "2023-09-27", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Sep 27, 2023\nGeothermal: The Future Ahead\nBy Rep. Russ Fulcher (ID-01)\nAmerica\u2019s energy future is exciting as new technologies enhance the possibilities in the hydropower, nuclear, and geothermal space. In particular, geothermal energy has an optimistic arena to bring reliable, clean energy to Americans nationwide. As many Idahoans already know, geothermal is a proven technology with a fascinating history in my home state of Idaho.\nIn the late 19th century, Idahoans began tapping into local geothermal sources for energy purposes. Today, Boise is not only the first city to utilize geothermal heat but is the largest-operated geothermal system in the country. Amazingly, geothermal wells developed more than 100 years ago are heating the Idaho State Capitol, Boise City Hall, portions of Boise State University, and many other buildings in the city.\nAlong with advancements in technology, one other area where geothermal sources are highly prevalent is on Federal Lands. With the history of Idaho in the geothermal space and the potential future for geothermal on Federal Lands, earlier this year, I introduced the Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN Act) to encourage this budding resource. Nearly 90 percent of viable geothermal resources are estimated to be located on federally controlled lands, and the CLEAN Act will boost lease sales on Federal Lands and help cultivate geothermal resources into the future.\nI believe American energy independence should be a top priority for Congress. Geothermal is a renewable power source that can help us accomplish that goal. During National Clean Energy Week, I celebrate the future potential geothermal energy can provide to Idahoans and beyond.\n###\nAlongside Senator James E. Risch of Idaho, Congressman Fulcher has been a strong proponent of utilizing geothermal resources on Federal Lands during his tenure in the House of Representatives. Idaho has a long history in the geothermal heating and energy space with the potential for increased baseload power generation from sources on Federal Lands. Congressman Fulcher has sponsored the \u201cEnhancing Geothermal Production on Federal Lands Act\u201d and the \u201cCommitting Leases for Energy Access Now Act\u201d to encourage entrepreneurship in the geothermal heating and energy space into the future.\nThis article was originally published in the Congressional Western Caucus publication \u201cBranded.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-sponsors-legislation-investing-in-forests-rural-communities-by-supporting-wood-product-innovation", "Crapo Sponsors Legislation Investing in Forests, Rural Communities by Supporting Wood Product Innovation", "2023-09-26", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (D-Oregon), John Duarte (R-California) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Washington) in sponsoring bipartisan legislation that would improve forest health, reduce wildfire risk and boost rural economies by supporting innovative timber products.\n\n\u201cSupporting Idaho\u2019s timber industry grows rural economies, reduces wildfires and sustainably provides necessary resources for our state and country,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cThis legislation will fuel jobs and research good for both consumers and industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act continues the important work started in the 2018 Farm Bill, and further promotes the use and development of wood products nationwide,\u201d said Idaho Forest Group. \u201cContinuing to support the Wood Innovation Grant Program, along with investing in the future generation of wood product-friendly architects and engineers is critical for the success of manufacturers in Idaho, and across the country.\"\n\n\u201cWe thank Senators Wyden (D-OR) and Crapo (R-ID) for spearheading the Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act and encourage the Senate to pass this important legislation,\u201d said PotlatchDeltic. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will leverage market-based solutions to support the many benefits provided by sustainably managed private working forests. Improved forest data, programs and incentives to enhance the use of wood in the built environment, and integrating wood products into rural infrastructure strengthens our nation\u2019s forest economy and supports the rural communities operating within them.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe commend Senators Wyden (D-OR) and Crapo (R-ID) for their leadership of the Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act, a bipartisan bill that will bolster our nation\u2019s private working forests and the rural communities that depend on them for clean air and water, wildlife habitat, and jobs,\u201d said the National Alliance of Forest Owners. \u201cThis bill provides comprehensive support to the climate-smart forest supply chain through enhancing forest and wood product data, new education grants to train the next generation of engineers and architects in wood and mass timber construction, the expansion of the Wood Innovation Grant program, and the piloting of American-grown wood products\u2019 integration into rural infrastructure. These provisions collectively advance climate action via market mechanisms and investments in rural communities. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Senators Wyden and Crapo, and the entire Senate, to pass this essential legislation.\u201d\n\nThe Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act would:\n\nExpand and strengthen the Wood Innovation Grant Program;\n\nEstablish the Wood Building Accelerator Grant Program to fund programs that support the critical elements of designing and building with wood, including traditional wood products, mass timber and other advanced wood products;\n\nEstablish the Rural Infrastructure and Building Pilot Program to fund pilot programs that demonstrate the use of innovative wood products in the construction and renovation of rural infrastructure and building projects, such as affordable, modular housing.\n\nBill text can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-celebrate-contributions-of-forensic-scientists-in-justice-system", "Crapo, Risch Celebrate Contributions of Forensic Scientists in Justice System", "2023-09-22", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--The U.S. Senate unanimously agreed to a Senate Resolution designating September 17-23, 2023, as National Forensic Science Week. The resolution, introduced by U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), recognizes the role forensic science plays in the investigation, prosecution and conviction of crimes, as well as exoneration of the innocent.\n\n\u201cForensic science does more than just ensuring convictions,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cThis necessary work also frees the innocent. Forensic science delivers important truths to the criminal justice system, and the Idaho State Police is a leader and shining example of this vital service. The Senate\u2019s unanimous support of this resolution acknowledges the essential contributions of this field in bringing justice for victims.\u201d\n\n\u201cForensic science is a vital tool for our criminal justice system,\u201d said Risch. \u201cThe Senate\u2019s recognition of the work forensic scientists do to provide closure to victims, convict dangerous criminals, and free the innocent is more than earned, it is deserved.\u201d\n\n\u201cNational Forensic Science Week is an opportunity for us to recognize the important work of forensic science professionals who do such critical work in the criminal justice system,\u201d said Matthew Gammette, Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System Director. \u201cIt is a time to highlight their work, honor them for their contributions to society, and encourage more students to pursue this rapidly emerging profession. This week we have the opportunity to highlight the critical resource and infrastructure needs to advance forensic science in the United States. We must constantly work together to ensure equal access to forensic science and forensic medical services in the United States.\u201d\n\nAdditional co-sponsors of the resolution include Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-California), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Alex Padilla (D-California), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island).\n\nRead the full text of the resolution HERE and below.\n\nWhereas the Senate is committed to the use of forensic science in the investigation of crimes, the prosecution and conviction of the correct perpetrators of crimes, and the exoneration of innocent individuals falsely accused of crimes in the United States;\n\nWhereas forensic science service providers address critical questions in civil and criminal investigations and trials in the United States, including by providing scientific conclusions relating to forensic evidence;\n\nWhereas forensic science service providers partner with\u2014\n\n(1) Federal agencies to build and maintain criminal databases relating to latent prints, DNA, and other information relevant to criminal cases; and\n\n(2) Federal, State, and local agencies to ensure public safety;\n\nWhereas forensic science service providers serve a vital role in the criminal justice system by providing scientific information to investigators and officers of the court; and\n\nWhereas the week of September 17, 2023, to September 23, 2023, is recognized as \u2018\u2018National Forensic Science Week\u2019\u2019: Now, therefore, be it\n\nResolved, That the Senate\u2014\n\n(1) supports the goals and ideals of National Forensic Science Week; and\n\n(2) recognizes that National Forensic Science Week provides a special opportunity for\u2014\n\n(A) forensic science service providers to\u2014\n\n(i) acknowledge the contributions of forensic scientists in the laboratories in which those individuals work;\n\n(ii) organize community events to encourage a better understanding of forensic science;\n\n(iii) provide tours to Federal, State, and local policymakers to assist those individuals in gaining better insight into the current capabilities of forensic science service providers and the future demands that forensic science service providers will face; and\n\n(iv) contact and invite local media 5 outlets to cover events hosted during Na6 tional Forensic Science Week;\n\n(B) local policymakers to\u2014\n\n(i) recognize, through formal commendation or resolution, the contributions of local forensic science laboratories to the communities of those policymakers;\n\n(ii) formally declare the week of September 17, 2023, to September 23, 2023, to be \u2018\u2018National Forensic Science Week\u2019\u2019 by proclamation;\n\n(iii) visit local forensic science laboratories to gain an understanding of the capabilities and needs of those laboratories; and\n\n(iv) discuss the operational needs of State and local forensic science laboratories;\n\n(C) individuals in the United States, including members of the media, to\u2014\n\n(i) attend community events sponsored by local forensic science laboratories;\n\n(ii) take tours of local forensic science laboratories; and\n\n(iii) ask local forensic science laboratories about the operational and legislative needs of those laboratories;\n\n(D) members of the media to highlight local news stories that focus on the work of local forensic science laboratories in the communities that those laboratories serve; and\n\n(E) public safety officers, law enforcement 13 officers, and officers of the court to\u2014\n\n(i) attend community events spon sored by local forensic science laboratories;\n\n(ii) take tours of local forensic science laboratories;\n\n(iii) discuss the operational needs of State and local forensic science laboratories; and\n\n(iv) engage with local forensic science 22 laboratories about working together more 23 effectively\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/09/21/id-d6e338bf-5a88-4b9b-ad40-2c555f5dda19/", "Congressman Fulcher Joins The Kevin Miller Show On Recent Developments in Washington, D.C.", "2023-09-21", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Sep 21, 2023\nCongressman Fulcher is interviewed by Boise-based radio show host, Kevin Miller, broadcast on 580 AM and 107.5 FM, about recent developments in the House of Representatives. (Audio Courtesy of The Kevin Miller Show, KIDO)", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-senators-join-effort-to-prevent-abuse-of-public-health-emergencies-to-impose-gun-control", "Idaho Senators Join Effort to Prevent Abuse of Public Health Emergencies to Impose Gun Control", "2023-09-21", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--Idaho\u2019s U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch introduced the Protecting the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Act to prevent the President and the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from declaring a public health emergency to impose gun control.\n\n\u201cAbusing national and public health emergency powers for purposes of exercising excessive government control to strip Americans\u2019 Second Amendment right is a clear attempt to circumvent the U.S. Constitution,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cWe must not allow creative government bureaucrats to abridge this right while we seek to prevent violence perpetrated by criminals.\u201d\n\n\u201cBanning guns is not a public emergency,\u201d said Risch. \u201cEarlier this year, a liberal governor tried to use this scare tactic to ban guns in her state. We cannot allow a president to do the same and attack law-abiding gun owners. With the Protecting the Right To Keep and Bear Arms Act, President Biden and all future presidents would be prohibited from implementing an unconstitutional emergency declaration to take away your right to bear arms.\u201d\n\nEarlier this month, the Governor of New Mexico instituted a public health emergency for the purposes of suspending the Second Amendment-protected carrying of firearms. This comes after years of activist groups encouraging the Biden Administration, specifically HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, to take the same path to impose gun control by executive fiat.\n\nJust this week, the Washington Post reported that the Biden Administration plans to create a new Office of Gun Violence Prevention in response to \u201cstalled\u201d progress in Congress. A high-profile activist from the Community Justice Action Fund will serve a key role for the new office: an organization dedicated to declaring a national gun violence public health emergency as one of its three policy planks.\n\nThis legislation, led by Senator Mike Braun (R-Indiana), is endorsed by the Gun Owners of America. Additional co-sponsors include Senators Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) and John Thune (R-South Dakota).\n\nThe Protecting the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Act would:\n\nProhibit the President or their designee from declaring an emergency pursuant to the National Emergencies Act or major disaster pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act in order to impose gun control;\n\nPrevent the Secretary of Health and Human services from declaring a public health emergency pursuant to the Public Health Service Act for the purpose of imposing gun control; and\n\nPrevent any government official from prohibiting the manufacture, sale or transfer of a firearm or ammunition during a disaster or emergency.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/senate-finance-republicans-irs-document-destruction-harmed-taxpayers", "Senate Finance Republicans: IRS Document Destruction Harmed Taxpayers", "2023-09-21", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.\u2014Following reports that provide troubling evidence of taxpayers who were directly harmed by the Internal Revenue Service\u2019s (IRS) destruction of 30 million unprocessed tax returns, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Republicans, led by Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), are demanding information from the IRS on new and previously unanswered questions.\n\nFrom the letter:\n\nRecently reported information demonstrates the Internal Revenue Service\u2019s (IRS) March 2021 decision to destroy 30 million unprocessed tax year 2019 taxpayer information returns has indisputably harmed taxpayers.\n\n\u2026\n\nFor example, one of the recent reports provides troubling evidence of specific taxpayers who were directly harmed by the destruction of these information returns. For these taxpayers, the IRS denied their earned income tax credit (EITC) claim based upon the mistaken belief that the taxpayers had insufficient earned income.\n\n\u2026\n\nMeanwhile, the IRS still officially maintains that \u2018[t]here were no negative taxpayer consequences as a result of this action.\u2019\n\n\u2026\n\n[However], it appears that \u2018relief\u2019 was not provided by the IRS to at least some, and potentially thousands of, taxpayers who claimed the EITC in 2019; the destruction of these unprocessed information returns was unnecessary and its direct and indirect harm is disproportionate to whatever storage costs the IRS would have incurred; to date, the IRS is systemically denying/challenging EITC claims that rely upon income reported by these destroyed information returns rather than evaluating documentation in each case; and the IRS has not responded to diverse substantive issues arising from this episode.\n\nIn addition to the unanswered questions from a previous request for information in May 2022, the senators request new information from the IRS on the impact the document destruction had on taxpayers, especially low-income taxpayers who claimed the earned income tax credit (EITC).\n\nRead the full letter, signed by all Finance Committee Republican members, here.\n\nBackground: According to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), in March 2021, the IRS intentionally destroyed 30 million unprocessed taxpayer information returns due to its paper processing backlog. While the IRS claimed there were no negative consequences as a result of this action, Finance Committee Republicans raised concerns with the agency, and asked about the potential ramifications for taxpayers. Now, recent news reports suggest the IRS\u2019s destruction of information likely led to several negative consequences, including the unwarranted and onerous examination of many hardworking taxpayers and denial of tax benefits they are entitled to, in some cases for multiple years. These persons would not be helped by future changes to IRS enforcement efforts, including reducing enforcement with respect to returns claiming the EITC.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2023/09/19/id-c2ed9772-6b8e-4513-b01c-79325479dd5d/", "Fulcher, Energy & Commerce Members, Push Back on Proposed PM2.5 EPA Rule", "2023-09-19", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "The Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Minerals, under the Energy & Commerce Committee, held a hearing on the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s proposed rule for the reconsideration of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter.\n\nThe Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to revise the primary annual PM2.5 standard. While the rule is not expected to be implemented until next year, it does not account for sources of air pollution that are necessarily linked to wildfires or non-industry points.\n\nThe United States enjoys some of the cleanest air in the world today. Even more, ambient air levels of PM2.5 have been trending downward over the past twenty years. Unfortunately, the proposed Environmental Protection Agency rule threatens to push U.S. industry overseas through exorbitant overregulation. Since the Clean Air Act\u2019s inception, the country has reduced air pollution by almost 80%.\n\nPunishing industry for point source emissions when non-point source emissions, like wildfires, are ignored by the Environmental Protection Agency, in determining appropriate particulate matter levels, will hurt American industry and benefit the Chinese. The Biden Administration\u2019s Environmental Protection Agency is ignoring the progress made by industry in the United States while not understanding that China does not hold the progression of the United States when it comes to cleaner, healthier air.\n\nAdditionally, the proposed National Ambient Air Quality Standards will impose economy-wide impacts on agriculture, energy, forestry, manufacturing, and transportation sectors. The proposed rule should remain that \u2013 a proposed rule.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-stabenow-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-help-address-shortage-of-veterinarians-in-rural-america", "Crapo, Stabenow Lead Bipartisan Bill to Help Address Shortage of Veterinarians in Rural America", "2023-09-18", "2023", "2023-09", "Republican", "Senate", "ID", "Mike Crapo", "C000880", "www.crapo.senate.gov", "crapo", "https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan) introduced?bipartisan legislation to address a critical shortage of veterinarians in rural communities. The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act would provide tax benefits to veterinarians to encourage them to practice in rural communities. This will not only increase the care available to livestock and poultry, but also address food safety and public health concerns in these communities.\n\n\u201cVeterinarians in rural areas are crucial in maintaining animal health and welfare, and ensuring ranchers and farmers have access to care for their livestock,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cBy addressing the overly-burdensome taxes on the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program, we can improve access to rural veterinary care while strengthening local economies and protecting the safety of our national food supply.\u201d\n\n\u201cQuality veterinary care is essential to the agricultural economy and public health in rural communities in Michigan and across the country,\u201d?said Stabenow. ?\u201cBut too many communities lack the veterinary services they need. This bipartisan bill will provide incentives to veterinarians to practice in underserved areas, where quality veterinary care is needed to ensure healthy livestock and a safe food supply.\u201d\n\n\u201cIncreasing veterinary services in high-priority rural areas through the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act would help keep the nation\u2019s livestock healthy and our food supply safe and secure, and protect public health,\u201d said Dr. Rena Carlson, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President. \u201cThe AVMA has been a long-time champion of the proposed legislation. After the legislation received a historic level of support in the previous Congress, we look forward to working with the congressional champions to enact this bill and help rural communities across the country access the many essential services veterinarians provide.\u201d\n\nVeterinarians are critical to the agriculture economy and public health. Unfortunately, rural communities face a chronic shortage of quality veterinary services, and 500 counties across 46 states reported critical shortages last year. In 2003, Congress established the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program to address this shortage by assisting qualifying veterinarians with student loan repayment in exchange for a three-year commitment to practice in underserved communities.\n\nHowever, the program is currently subject to a significant federal withholding tax, which limits available resources and the reach of its benefits. The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act provides an exemption from the federal income withholding tax for payments received under the program and similar state programs, helping give more veterinarians the opportunity to practice in small, rural communities where their services are needed most. This change would reflect similar exemptions provided to medical doctors and other human health practitioners.\n\nCrapo and Stabenow led this effort in the 117th Congress, and Representative Adrian Smith introduced companion legislation in the House earlier this year.\n\nRead a statement of support from over 100 stakeholder groups here.\n\nThe bipartisan bill is cosponsored by Senators John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dianne Feinstein (D-California), Kristen Gillibrand (D-New York), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R- Mississippi), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Tina Smith (D-Minnesota).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 354, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "ID", "p1": "2023"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 354, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 278, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}, {"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 76, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "ID", "label": "ID", "count": 354, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "2023", "label": "2023", "count": 354, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ID", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2023-09-18,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ecrapo~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fnewsreleases~2Fcrapo-stabenow-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-help-address-shortage-of-veterinarians-in-rural-america", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2023&_next=2023-09-18%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ecrapo~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fnewsreleases~2Fcrapo-stabenow-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-help-address-shortage-of-veterinarians-in-rural-america&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 84.72741907462478, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}