{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"NM\" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1831", "Udall, Heinrich Announce $324 Million for WIPP Cleanup, Recovery [press_release]", "2014-12-22", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 22, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Announce $324 Million for WIPP Cleanup, Recovery \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Legislation signed by president includes $104 million more than administration's budget request\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that the president has signed legislation providing $324 million for recovery and operations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad, N.M. Earlier this year, Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Heinrich had requested the funding to ensure recovery efforts can continue so the facility can safely resume operation and accept waste from Los Alamos National Laboratory. The funding was included in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds the government through the end of the fiscal year, and was signed into law by President Obama last week. WIPP has been closed since February following two separate accidents, a fire and a radiation release. The Department of Energy released a recovery plan for the plant on Sept. 30, and it is currently finalizing a report on the cause of the radiation release.  \"This is critical funding that is absolutely necessary to move forward with cleanup and recovery at WIPP and so we can resume shipments of waste from Los Alamos,\" Udall said. \"These funds will help us move toward a safe reopening of WIPP, which not only provides jobs in the state, but is pivotal to both our national security and our energy security. WIPP is our nation's only permanent repository for transuranic waste, and I will continue to work with the state and the Department of Energy to ensure we get the facility up and running safely and soon.\" \"Our nation's security relies heavily on the important work being done at WIPP. Not only is the facility an integral part of the environmental cleanup of Cold War programs at Department of Energy defense sites around the country, including Los Alamos, it also supports many jobs in New Mexico,\" said Heinrich. \"This extra funding will help ensure that WIPP maintains the highest level of safety and transparency to protect the workers and community, and keep the recovery efforts moving forward so that safe operations can be restored.\" In June, Senator Udall worked to ensure the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations bill provided full funding for WIPP, including more than $100 million for WIPP cleanup. The final appropriations bill, which was approved by the Senate and signed into law last Tuesday, provided both the administration's original funding request of $220 million, plus an additional $104 million that was designated for recovery from the radiological accident.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-announce-324-million-for-wipp-cleanup-recovery", "Udall, Heinrich Announce $324 Million for WIPP Cleanup, Recovery", "2014-12-22", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Announce $324 Million for WIPP Cleanup, Recovery\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tLegislation signed by president includes $104 million more than administration's budget request\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 22, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0- Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that the president has signed legislation providing $324 million for recovery and operations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad, N.M. Earlier this year, Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Heinrich had requested the funding to ensure recovery efforts can continue so the facility can safely resume operation and accept waste from Los Alamos National Laboratory. The funding was included in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds the government through the end of the fiscal year, and was signed into law by President Obama last week.\r\nWIPP has been closed since February following two separate accidents, a fire and a radiation release. The Department of Energy released a recovery plan for the plant on Sept. 30, and it is currently finalizing a report on the cause of the radiation release.\u00a0\r\n\"This is critical funding that is absolutely necessary to move forward with cleanup and recovery at WIPP and so we can resume shipments of waste from Los Alamos,\" Udall said. \"These funds will help us move toward a safe reopening of WIPP, which not only provides jobs in the state, but is pivotal to both our national security and our energy security. WIPP is our nation's only permanent repository for transuranic waste, and I will continue to work with the state and the Department of Energy to ensure we get the facility up and running safely and soon.\"\r\n\"Our nation's security relies heavily on the important work being done at WIPP. Not only is the facility an integral part of the environmental cleanup of Cold War programs at Department of Energy defense sites around the country, including Los Alamos, it also supports many jobs in New Mexico,\" said Heinrich. \"This extra funding will help ensure that WIPP maintains the highest level of safety and transparency to protect the workers and community, and keep the recovery efforts moving forward so that safe operations can be restored.\"\r\nIn June, Senator Udall worked to ensure the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations bill provided full funding for WIPP, including more than $100 million for WIPP cleanup. The final appropriations bill, which was approved by the Senate and signed into law last Tuesday, provided both the administration's original funding request of $220 million, plus an additional $104 million that was designated for recovery from the radiological accident.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-announce-324-million-for-wipp-cleanup-recovery", "Udall, Heinrich Announce $324 Million for WIPP Cleanup, Recovery", "2014-12-22", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 22, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Announce $324 Million for WIPP Cleanup, Recovery \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Legislation signed by president includes $104 million more than administration's budget request\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that the president has signed legislation providing $324 million for recovery and operations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad, N.M. Earlier this year, Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Heinrich had requested the funding to ensure recovery efforts can continue so the facility can safely resume operation and accept waste from Los Alamos National Laboratory. The funding was included in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds the government through the end of the fiscal year, and was signed into law by President Obama last week. WIPP has been closed since February following two separate accidents, a fire and a radiation release. The Department of Energy released a recovery plan for the plant on Sept. 30, and it is currently finalizing a report on the cause of the radiation release.  \"This is critical funding that is absolutely necessary to move forward with cleanup and recovery at WIPP and so we can resume shipments of waste from Los Alamos,\" Udall said. \"These funds will help us move toward a safe reopening of WIPP, which not only provides jobs in the state, but is pivotal to both our national security and our energy security. WIPP is our nation's only permanent repository for transuranic waste, and I will continue to work with the state and the Department of Energy to ensure we get the facility up and running safely and soon.\" \"Our nation's security relies heavily on the important work being done at WIPP. Not only is the facility an integral part of the environmental cleanup of Cold War programs at Department of Energy defense sites around the country, including Los Alamos, it also supports many jobs in New Mexico,\" said Heinrich. \"This extra funding will help ensure that WIPP maintains the highest level of safety and transparency to protect the workers and community, and keep the recovery efforts moving forward so that safe operations can be restored.\" In June, Senator Udall worked to ensure the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations bill provided full funding for WIPP, including more than $100 million for WIPP cleanup. The final appropriations bill, which was approved by the Senate and signed into law last Tuesday, provided both the administration's original funding request of $220 million, plus an additional $104 million that was designated for recovery from the radiological accident.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141230080633/http://www.tomudall.senate.gov/?p=blog&id=1829", "Holiday Reflections [blog]", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "The holidays are a wonderful time of year, when we reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the next. It's also a time to think about family and friends. New Mexico has a proud tradition of military service, and many of us have family serving far away. Please join Jill and me in sending our warmest thanks to the service members who are far from their family and friends this holiday season.\nWe've had an eventful year in Congress, and I'm pleased with the progress we made for New Mexico, especially in the last month. Congress has approved critical legislation, which I pushed hard for as a member of the Appropriations Committee and that is vital for New Mexico. The bill ensures stable budgets for Sandia and Los Alamos national labs, funds important water projects across the state, sustains key projects at our military bases, takes important steps to improve veterans' services \u2013 especially for those living in rural communities, and fully funds the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program \u2013 which helps ensure counties can provide local services New Mexicans rely on, such as schools, roads, and public safety. The legislation also makes important progress on an issue I have championed \u2013 improving technology transfer from our national labs. Tech transfer is an important way to create new businesses and jobs from the valuable work being done at Los Alamos and Sandia, and I'm excited we're making progress.\nAnother positive step was passage of a critical defense bill, which will strengthen New Mexico's military bases and federal defense installations and support our nation's service members and their families. In addition, I'm very proud that we approved several landmark public lands provisions that I have worked on for many years. Creating the Columbine Hondo wilderness near Wheeler Peak, making the Valles Caldera a unit of the National Park Service, and creating a Manhattan Project National Historical Park will allow us to preserve some of our state's most special landscapes and historic legacies, while boosting tourism and creating jobs in nearby communities. I want to thank the many New Mexicans who put in years of hard work, including former Senator Jeff Bingaman, my fellow Senator Martin Heinrich, and a coalition of sportsmen, conservationists, local business people, historians and others for helping us get these passed into law.\nNext year, I will join a new committee, the Senate Commerce Committee. In combination with my assignments on the Appropriations, Foreign Relations, Indian Affairs and Rules committees, this assignment puts me in an exciting position to fight for issues that help create jobs in New Mexico \u2013 from trade and transportation to technology and the rapidly evolving space industry.\nJill and I wish all of you safe holidays and a happy new year, and I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of all New Mexicans in 2015.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/in-the-news/albuquerque-journal-editorial-public-a-winner-in-hunt-for-more-valles-caldera-access", "Albuquerque Journal: Editorial: Public a winner in hunt for more Valles Caldera access", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque Journal: Editorial: Public a winner in hunt for more Valles Caldera access\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n            Friday, December 19, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            One of New Mexico\u2019s magnificent pieces of public real estate is a winner in legislation President Obama is expected to sign.\r\nBy extension, New Mexicans are winners, too, gaining more access to the breathtaking Valles Caldera for recreation and economic benefits from increased tourism.\r\nSince 2002, the 89,000-acre preserve located inside a volcanic caldera in northern New Mexico has been administered by a presidentially appointed board of trustees. The U.S. government purchased it in 2000 from the Texas-based Dunigan family.\r\nUnder terms of the enabling legislation passed by Congress, the Valles Caldera Preservation Act, the trust was charged with operating it as a working ranch, protecting its natural and cultural resources, and providing limited recreational opportunities.\r\nTransfer of management of Valles Caldera National Preserve to the National Park Service has been sought by former and current New Mexico congressional delegations. Former Sens. Jeff Bingaman and Pete Domenici sponsored legislation in the past, and Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich sponsored current legislation that was wrapped into the defense authorization bill.\r\n\u201cWith today\u2019s vote, we are protecting some of the most beloved landscapes in New Mexico,\u201d Udall said when the U.S. Senate passed the bill that included designating the 45,000-acre Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness and expanding the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by about 650 acres. Heinrich called its passage historic.\r\nThe legislation would mandate increased public access for hunting and fishing, and it\u2019s hoped that access for other recreational uses \u2013 such as horseback riding, hiking and picnicking \u2013 will be expanded, too.\r\nThe transfer puts the preserve in the hands of people with experience managing public lands throughout the country. They should be able to come up with an acceptable mix of public accessibility and conservation.\r\nThis editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/holiday-reflections", "Holiday Reflections", "2014-12-19", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 19, 2014\n\t\t\t Holiday Reflections \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tThe holidays are a wonderful time of year, when we reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the next. It's also a time to think about family and friends. New Mexico has a proud tradition of military service, and many of us have family serving far away. Please join Jill and me in sending our warmest thanks to the service members who are far from their family and friends this holiday season.\nWe've had an eventful year in Congress, and I'm pleased with the progress we made for New Mexico, especially in the last month. Congress has approved critical legislation, which I pushed hard for as a member of the Appropriations Committee and that is vital for New Mexico. The bill ensures stable budgets for Sandia and Los Alamos national labs, funds important water projects across the state, sustains key projects at our military bases, takes important steps to improve veterans' services  especially for those living in rural communities, and fully funds the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program  which helps ensure counties can provide local services New Mexicans rely on, such as schools, roads, and public safety. The legislation also makes important progress on an issue I have championed  improving technology transfer from our national labs. Tech transfer is an important way to create new businesses and jobs from the valuable work being done at Los Alamos and Sandia, and I'm excited we're making progress.\nAnother positive step was passage of a critical defense bill, which will strengthen New Mexico's military bases and federal defense installations and support our nation's service members and their families. In addition, I'm very proud that we approved several landmark public lands provisions that I have worked on for many years. Creating the Columbine Hondo wilderness near Wheeler Peak, making the Valles Caldera a unit of the National Park Service, and creating a Manhattan Project National Historical Park will allow us to preserve some of our state's most special landscapes and historic legacies, while boosting tourism and creating jobs in nearby communities. I want to thank the many New Mexicans who put in years of hard work, including former Senator Jeff Bingaman, my fellow Senator Martin Heinrich, and a coalition of sportsmen, conservationists, local business people, historians and others for helping us get these passed into law.\nNext year, I will join a new committee, the Senate Commerce Committee. In combination with my assignments on the Appropriations, Foreign Relations, Indian Affairs and Rules committees, this assignment puts me in an exciting position to fight for issues that help create jobs in New Mexico  from trade and transportation to technology and the rapidly evolving space industry.\nJill and I wish all of you safe holidays and a happy new year, and I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of all New Mexicans in 2015.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1830", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Critical PILT Funding for New Mexico Counties [press_release]", "2014-12-18", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 18, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Secure Critical PILT Funding for New Mexico Counties \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t PILT helps counties provide services New Mexicans rely on, including schools and public safety\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that the president has signed legislation that fully funds the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program (PILT) for 2015. New Mexico counties rely on PILT to provide services, including schools, roads, and public safety. Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Heinrich are strong advocates for the PILT program because of how important it is to New Mexico communities, and they have pushed hard to ensure funding would be available in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds federal government programs through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year. \n  Passage of the bill means individual counties will receive PILT payments, on schedule, in June. Last year, all but one of New Mexico's counties received funding through the program - a total of $37 million. \n  \"The security of next year's PILT funding is a relief for New Mexico's counties, because the PILT program helps provide New Mexicans in almost every county with critical services like police, fire protection, and education - contributing more than $37 million this year alone,\" Udall said. \"Our local governments rely on PILT to create jobs and pay for basic services, and that's why I pushed so hard as a member of the Appropriations Committee to secure these critical payments for next year. PILT is part of the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land, and I'll continue making the case in Congress for why we must fund it well into the future.\" \"Our effort to restore funding for the PILT program is a major victory for rural New Mexico. Many communities throughout New Mexico rely on PILT funds to provide better schools, maintain infrastructure, and support thousands of local jobs,\" Heinrich said. \"I will continue to seek pragmatic and long-term solutions to help maintain the economic strength of our rural communities.\" \n  PILT is administered through the Department of the Interior and compensates rural counties for hosting federal lands, which cannot be developed, including Bureau of Land Management land, national parks and forests and some military bases. Funding for each county is determined by a formula and is based on the number of acres of federal entitlement land within each county or jurisdiction and the population of that county or jurisdiction.  Funding for PILT has been uncertain for several years, with Udall and Heinrich helping lead efforts to include it in bigger legislation - last year it was funded through the Farm Bill, and prior to that, PILT funding was included in a transportation bill. Because counties rely heavily on PILT, the senators are pushing for a more stable process, which would ensure full funding for several years at a time, so that counties can plan their budgets in advance. \n  \u00a0\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-secure-critical-pilt-funding-for-new-mexico-counties", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Critical PILT Funding for New Mexico Counties", "2014-12-18", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Critical PILT Funding for New Mexico Counties\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t PILT helps counties provide services New Mexicans rely on, including schools and public safety\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 18, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that the president has signed legislation that fully funds the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program (PILT) for 2015. New Mexico counties rely on PILT to provide services, including schools, roads, and public safety. Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Heinrich are strong advocates for the PILT program because of how important it is to New Mexico communities, and they have pushed hard to ensure funding would be available in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds federal government programs through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year.\r\n\u00a0Passage of the bill means individual counties will receive PILT payments, on schedule, in June. Last year, all but one of New Mexico's counties received funding through the program \u2014 a total of $37 million.\r\n\u201cThe security of next year\u2019s PILT funding is a relief for New Mexico's counties, because the PILT program helps provide New Mexicans in almost every county with critical services like police, fire protection, and education\u00a0\u2014\u00a0contributing more than $37 million this year alone,\u201d Udall said. \u201cOur local governments rely on PILT to create jobs and pay for basic services, and that's why I pushed so hard as a member of the Appropriations Committee to secure these critical payments for next year. PILT is part of the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land, and I'll continue making the case in Congress for why we must fund it well into the future.\u201d\r\n\"Our effort to restore funding for the PILT program is a major victory for rural New Mexico. Many communities throughout New Mexico rely on PILT funds to provide better schools, maintain infrastructure, and support thousands of local jobs,\" Heinrich said.\u00a0\"I will continue to seek pragmatic and long-term solutions to help maintain the economic strength of our rural communities.\"\r\nPILT is administered through the Department of the Interior and compensates rural counties for hosting federal lands, which cannot be developed, including Bureau of Land Management land, national parks and forests and some military bases. Funding for each county is determined by a formula and is based on the number of acres of federal entitlement land within each county or jurisdiction and the population of that county or jurisdiction.\u00a0\r\nFunding for PILT has been uncertain for several years, with Udall and Heinrich helping lead efforts to include it in bigger legislation \u2014 last year it was funded through the Farm Bill, and prior to that, PILT funding was included in a transportation bill. Because counties rely heavily on PILT, the senators are pushing for a more stable process, which would ensure full funding for several years at a time, so that counties can plan their budgets in advance.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-secure-critical-pilt-funding-for-new-mexico-counties", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Critical PILT Funding for New Mexico Counties", "2014-12-18", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 18, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Secure Critical PILT Funding for New Mexico Counties \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t PILT helps counties provide services New Mexicans rely on, including schools and public safety\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that the president has signed legislation that fully funds the Payment in Lieu of Taxes program (PILT) for 2015. New Mexico counties rely on PILT to provide services, including schools, roads, and public safety. Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Heinrich are strong advocates for the PILT program because of how important it is to New Mexico communities, and they have pushed hard to ensure funding would be available in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds federal government programs through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year. \n  Passage of the bill means individual counties will receive PILT payments, on schedule, in June. Last year, all but one of New Mexico's counties received funding through the program - a total of $37 million. \n  \"The security of next year's PILT funding is a relief for New Mexico's counties, because the PILT program helps provide New Mexicans in almost every county with critical services like police, fire protection, and education - contributing more than $37 million this year alone,\" Udall said. \"Our local governments rely on PILT to create jobs and pay for basic services, and that's why I pushed so hard as a member of the Appropriations Committee to secure these critical payments for next year. PILT is part of the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land, and I'll continue making the case in Congress for why we must fund it well into the future.\" \"Our effort to restore funding for the PILT program is a major victory for rural New Mexico. Many communities throughout New Mexico rely on PILT funds to provide better schools, maintain infrastructure, and support thousands of local jobs,\" Heinrich said. \"I will continue to seek pragmatic and long-term solutions to help maintain the economic strength of our rural communities.\" \n  PILT is administered through the Department of the Interior and compensates rural counties for hosting federal lands, which cannot be developed, including Bureau of Land Management land, national parks and forests and some military bases. Funding for each county is determined by a formula and is based on the number of acres of federal entitlement land within each county or jurisdiction and the population of that county or jurisdiction.  Funding for PILT has been uncertain for several years, with Udall and Heinrich helping lead efforts to include it in bigger legislation - last year it was funded through the Farm Bill, and prior to that, PILT funding was included in a transportation bill. Because counties rely heavily on PILT, the senators are pushing for a more stable process, which would ensure full funding for several years at a time, so that counties can plan their budgets in advance. \n  \n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1828", "Udall Statement on Relations with Cuba and Release of Alan Gross [press_release]", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 17, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Relations with Cuba and Release of Alan Gross \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall released a statement today on the president's announcement that he has taken steps to normalize relations with the country of Cuba and has secured the release of American prisoner Alan Gross, who had been held in a Cuban jail since 2009.  In November, Udall traveled to Cuba with Senator Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) where they met with Cuban officials as well as religious and business leaders to discuss the impacts of the embargo and travel restrictions on American and Cuban families. Udall also visited Alan Gross in prison and expressed optimism that he would be released soon.  Below is Udall's statement:\n \"I am happy for Alan Gross and his family today, and we welcome him home after 5 years of incarceration in Cuba. I applaud the president in his efforts to return him to his family and for taking steps to normalize relations with Cuba.  Now is the time to end the failed embargo against Cuba and to take steps to normalize relations. This is a sea change as our nation is finally embarking on a 21st century approach with Cuba, one that will open opportunities for New Mexicans and other American interests in Cuba. American citizens are the best diplomats of our values and I hope their future interactions shine through with the Cuban people.  It is time to act, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and the Obama administration, to build upon this announcement and move forward to lift the embargo on Cuba, which has only served to isolate the Cuban people and limit American opportunity.\" \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-statement-on-cuba-policy-changes-and-release-of-alan-gross", "Heinrich Statement On Cuba Policy Changes And Release Of Alan Gross", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Statement On Cuba Policy Changes And Release Of Alan Gross\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 17, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) made the following statement today regarding President Obama's announcement of changes he's made to the economic and diplomatic relationship between the United States and Cuba, and the release of American prisoner Alan Gross, who had been held in a Cuban jail since 2009: \"Today marks a welcome change of course in our nation\u2019s relationship with Cuba. I support the Administration's decision to abandon an outdated Cold War policy of isolation that failed to advance America\u2019s goal of an open and free society for the Cuban people. This new course is consistent with our national security interests, and will help make it easier for Americans to travel to Cuba and increase economic opportunities. But more importantly, I hope this change in course will lead to more progress in reversing the Cuban government\u2019s history of suppressing the human rights and other civil freedoms of its citizens.\r\n\u201cThe release of U.S. citizen Alan Gross is wonderful news. I\u2019m pleased he is home safe and reunited with his family after five years of imprisonment.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-statement-on-relations-with-cuba-and-release-of-alan-gross", "Udall Statement on Relations with Cuba and Release of Alan Gross", "2014-12-17", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 17, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Relations with Cuba and Release of Alan Gross \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall released a statement today on the president's announcement that he has taken steps to normalize relations with the country of Cuba and has secured the release of American prisoner Alan Gross, who had been held in a Cuban jail since 2009.  In November, Udall traveled to Cuba with Senator Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) where they met with Cuban officials as well as religious and business leaders to discuss the impacts of the embargo and travel restrictions on American and Cuban families. Udall also visited Alan Gross in prison and expressed optimism that he would be released soon.  Below is Udall's statement:\n \"I am happy for Alan Gross and his family today, and we welcome him home after 5 years of incarceration in Cuba. I applaud the president in his efforts to return him to his family and for taking steps to normalize relations with Cuba.  Now is the time to end the failed embargo against Cuba and to take steps to normalize relations. This is a sea change as our nation is finally embarking on a 21st century approach with Cuba, one that will open opportunities for New Mexicans and other American interests in Cuba. American citizens are the best diplomats of our values and I hope their future interactions shine through with the Cuban people.  It is time to act, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and the Obama administration, to build upon this announcement and move forward to lift the embargo on Cuba, which has only served to isolate the Cuban people and limit American opportunity.\" \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1827", "Udall Welcomes Passage of Bill to Begin Reform of Federal Information Technology Systems [press_release]", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 16, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Welcomes Passage of Bill to Begin Reform of Federal Information Technology Systems \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Udall authored reform legislation to improve how citizens interact with government, save billions of taxpayers\u0092 dollars, increase transparency in IT purchasing\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, today announced that a bill he has helped champion in Congress, to begin needed reforms of federal information technology (IT) purchasing and management, has passed Congress as a part of major defense legislation.  The Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA) passed last week as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). FITARA is designed to improve the way citizens interact with the federal government, save billions of taxpayers' dollars, and increase transparency in IT purchasing. The legislation includes major elements of a bill Udall introduced with Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), the Federal Information Technology Savings, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2013. The bill is set to be signed into law by the president. The federal government spends approximately $80 billion annually on IT, yet those investments continue to underperform, often incurring considerable cost overruns and delays. FITARA will improve how the federal government acquires, implements and manages its information technology investments by giving agency Chief Information Officers (CIOs) more authority over the budget, governance, and personnel processes for agency Information Technology investments, and by improving transparency and review processes of agency IT investments. \"The number one way most Americans interact with the federal government is online, but our purchasing and management systems date back to the days of floppy disks and telephone modems, and it's wasting billions of taxpayer dollars a year,\" Udall said. \"These reforms are badly needed to encourage innovation, save New Mexico taxpayers' money and help avoid IT failures like the initial rollout of the healthcare.gov website. I'm proud of the meaningful bipartisan work that went into this critical legislation, and I will continue to work with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to push for the updates and investments needed to provide best service we can for the taxpayers.\" FITARA enhances agency CIOs' authorities and strengthens key initiatives proposed in the administration's 25 Point Implementation Plan to Reform Federal Information Technology Management. Highlights include: -More authority for chief information officers over the budget, governance and personnel processes for agency IT investments.  -Increased transparency for IT investments and a requirement that agencies review troubled investments. -The bill directs the development of an enhanced government-wide software purchasing program that agencies may use to lower acquisition and management costs. -Mandatory annual reviews all of agency IT investments to eliminate duplication and waste.  -Consolidates over 9,000 federal data centers.\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/in-the-news/albuquerque-journal-graduate-presents-research", "Albuquerque Journal: Graduate presents research", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque Journal: Graduate presents research\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\u00a0\r\n                    Journal Staff\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Tuesday, December 16, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Mesalands Community College graduate Donald Price this fall presented his undergraduate research on fossils collected in Quay County at the Community College Undergraduate Research Initiative (CCURI) National Poster Session at the Hart Senate Building in Washington, D.C. Only 43 students across the country were invited to present research at the event, and Price was the only one from New Mexico.\r\nPrice graduated from Mesalands in 2010 with an Associate of Arts Degree in Natural Sciences with a Paleontology Option. He recently completed a 6-month internship at the Mesalands Community College\u2019s Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory. He now is pursuing a bachelor\u2019s degree in geology from the University of Colorado-Boulder.\r\n\u201cI am grateful to the many people who have guided and supported my interests,\u201d Price said in a news release. \u201cI may not know what my future holds, but I can safely say that what I learned at the Mesalands Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory, has laid the ground work for my future success.\u201d\r\nAt the CCURI National Poster Session, Price presented his research, called \u201cOsteoderms of Machaeroprosopus gregorii Described and Compared to Modern Analogues.\u201d Osteoderms are the armor plates of phytosaurs, Mesalands said in a news release.\r\nPhytosaurs were animals closely related to the common ancestor of birds and visually resembled the modern crocodile. Phytosaurs lived in the Late Triassic Period, approximately 206 million years ago. Many of the specimens Price used in his research were collected in Quay County by students participating in the paleontology field research classes.\r\nGretchen Gurtler, Director of the Mesalands Dinosaur Museum and Natural Sciences Laboratory, attended the CCURI National Poster Session with Price. She said she was very grateful that U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico met with Price in Washington, D.C. She said very few students were given this opportunity.\r\n\u201cTo me, it was real honor when U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich walked in and said \u2018tell me about your Osteoderms.\u2019 That meant that he had read the abstract and was familiar with Donald\u2019s research project,\u201d Gurtler said.\r\nFor the college and for the country as a whole, \u201cwe are very grateful that the Senate supports undergraduate research and Sen. Heinrich has consistently voted in favor of funding research on the collegiate level,\u201d she said.\r\n\u201cWhen we were in the Hart Building, Donald suddenly realized that he\u2019s not just a student representing Mesalands Community College. He is actually representing undergraduate researchers throughout the country and is an advocate for undergraduate research.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/in-the-news/heinrich-pushing-tech-transfer-possibilities-on-senate-armed-services-committee", "Heinrich pushing tech-transfer possibilities on Senate Armed Services Committee", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque Business First: Heinrich pushing tech-transfer possibilities on Senate Armed Services Committee\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\u00a0\r\n                    Dan Mayfield\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Tuesday, December 16, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Sen.\u00a0Martin Heinrich\u00a0(D-NM) says he'll now be in a position to protect New Mexico's military presence better as a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services.\r\nNew Mexico is home to Kirtland Air Force Base, Holloman Air Force Base, Cannon Air Force Base, Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range, two major national laboratories and the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. The committee oversees these installations, which provide 50,000 jobs with an annual economic impact of $13 billion across the state.\r\nThe facilities cut across the defense spectrum, from the Departments of Energy and Defense to the National Nuclear Security Administration.\r\n\"At our DOD and NNSA facilities, we're always thinking about forward-thinking missions, and thinking ahead, and whether that's Holloman or Kirtland is relevant to the future,\" Heinrich told Business First on Tuesday. \"It makes it easier to defend new missions and defend what we have.\"\r\nAs a member of the committee, he said he's focusing on three main \"buckets\" of priorities: protecting the missions of the state's facilities, creating\u00a0more technology-transfer opportunities\u00a0and developing space-leadership opportunities, which is a major mission of Kirtland Air Force Base.\r\n\"You continue to protect and develop what you have, and at the same time try to build the private-sector ecosystem that in my view has been underdeveloped around that,\" he said. \"\u00a0Technology transfer hasn't been fully developed. The more we can do to take advantage of the services and the business on the outside of the gates is the way to buffer you from the ups and downs of federal spending.\"\r\nFor several years, federal spending has decreased in Albuquerque, and technology transfer has been seen as\u00a0a way to create jobs based on research from Sandia National Laboratories.\r\nEMCORE is often held up as model, but that company moved its headquarters in California after 20 years in Albuquerque.\r\n\"You can walk around the Sandia Science and Tech Park and see K-Tech and others. What we don't have is something that is scaled to the level of a big national company,\" Heinrich said. \"If you take the approach that you're going to grow the public sector in a vacuum and not look at 40,000 jobs and $8 billion in input, that's not a recipe for growth. We have to lead in areas that we are uniquely available to lead. There's not a core piece of our economy that we should not leverage for future growth.\"\r\nHeinrich is pushing two new\u00a0technology-transfer bills\u00a0that would\u00a0make it easier for federal labs to develop technology in the private sector.\r\nOne of the major local hurdles, however, is private capital, and Heinrich said he's aware of the problem in New Mexico.\r\n\"I'm not sure the Senate Armed Services Committee is a platform for financing small business. But it's a platform to make sure we have the most advanced defense systems,\" he said. \"What we can do is create a culture that supports these spinoffs. We've been off the map in terms of that investment structure in the U.S., and we need to do a much better job of highlighting what's going on. It will attract capital if people are aware of it.\"\r\nWhile he served in the\u00a0U.S. House of Representatives, Heinrich was on the House Armed Services Committee, and he said that experience will serve him well in the 114th Congress.\r\n\"I'm excited about hitting the ground running here,\" he said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-praise-confirmation-of-nms-estevan-lopez-as-commissioner-of-bureau-of-reclamation", "Udall, Heinrich Praise Confirmation of N.M.'s Estevan López as Commissioner of Bureau of Reclamation", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Praise Confirmation of N.M.'s Estevan L\u00f3pez as Commissioner of Bureau of Reclamation\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 16, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined the Senate in confirming Estevan L\u00f3pez, a native New Mexican,\u00a0as Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation.\u00a0L\u00f3pez, who\u00a0previously served as the Director of the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, replaces former Commissioner and fellow New Mexican, Michael Connor, who was confirmed as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Interior in February.\u00a0\r\n\"Water is a defining issue in New Mexico and across the Western United States today, and the Bureau of Reclamation plays a critical role in meeting the water demands of the West, given competing needs and limited water resources,\" Udall said. \"As a veteran water manager with more than two decades of experience handling water issues in both the public and private sectors at the local and state level, Estevan L\u00f3pez has a solid grasp of policy and a sharp intellect that will enable him to successfully step into the vital role of Commissioner at the Bureau of Reclamation. Estevan has worked under both Republican and Democratic administrations in New Mexico, and demonstrated his great ability to work with diverse groups to find solutions to complex issues. He has a deep-rooted desire to solve water problems, and I look forward to working with him to address the immense challenges facing New Mexico and the West.\"\u00a0\r\n\u201cThe Bureau of Reclamation is at the center of managing a variety of interests to address our nation's water needs. With important water projects across the West that affect our communities, tribes, local farmers, and wildlife habitat, we need a skilled commissioner at the helm,\" Heinrich said. \"Estevan L\u00f3pez\u2019s experience as a water manager in New Mexico gives him the keen understanding needed to tackle our most pressing water issues, such as severe drought, devastating floods, and the need for smart water management into the future. I look forward to working with Mr. L\u00f3pez to support New Mexico\u2019s critical water projects.\u201d\r\nL\u00f3pez currently serves as the principal deputy commissioner of Reclamation, where he manages the bureau's day-to-day operations. With a $1 billion annual budget, the Bureau of Reclamation manages, develops and protects water and related resources. It is the largest wholesale water supplier in the United States, and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power. The bureau has led water projects such as the construction of dams, power plants and canals in 17 Western states, and delivers 10 trillion gallons of water to more than 31 million people each year. Reclamation also supports the conservation and efficient use of water along with research and development of key water technologies.\r\nGovernor Bill Richardson in 2003 appointed L\u00f3pez to be director of the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission. L\u00f3pez also served as the deputy state engineer for New Mexico. In addition, he is a member of the Governor\u2019s Blue Ribbon Task Force on Water Issues and is the chairman of the Water Cabinet, which Richardson created by executive order in 2007. He also represented New Mexico on water related issues in the New Mexico/Chihuahua Commission and on the U.S./Mexico Border Governors Conference.\u00a0\r\nPreviously, L\u00f3pez served as county manager for Santa Fe County from 2001-2003 and as land use and utility director for Santa Fe County from 1997-2001. He also worked for the New Mexico Public Utility Commission from 1990-1997. L\u00f3pez is a registered professional engineer in New Mexico. He has Bachelor of Science degrees in chemistry and in petroleum engineering from New Mexico Tech.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-welcomes-passage-of-bill-to-begin-reform-of-federal-information-technology-systems", "Udall Welcomes Passage of Bill to Begin Reform of Federal Information Technology Systems", "2014-12-16", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 16, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Welcomes Passage of Bill to Begin Reform of Federal Information Technology Systems \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Udall authored reform legislation to improve how citizens interact with government, save billions of taxpayers dollars, increase transparency in IT purchasing\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, today announced that a bill he has helped champion in Congress, to begin needed reforms of federal information technology (IT) purchasing and management, has passed Congress as a part of major defense legislation.  The Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA) passed last week as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). FITARA is designed to improve the way citizens interact with the federal government, save billions of taxpayers' dollars, and increase transparency in IT purchasing. The legislation includes major elements of a bill Udall introduced with Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), the Federal Information Technology Savings, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2013. The bill is set to be signed into law by the president. The federal government spends approximately $80 billion annually on IT, yet those investments continue to underperform, often incurring considerable cost overruns and delays. FITARA will improve how the federal government acquires, implements and manages its information technology investments by giving agency Chief Information Officers (CIOs) more authority over the budget, governance, and personnel processes for agency Information Technology investments, and by improving transparency and review processes of agency IT investments. \"The number one way most Americans interact with the federal government is online, but our purchasing and management systems date back to the days of floppy disks and telephone modems, and it's wasting billions of taxpayer dollars a year,\" Udall said. \"These reforms are badly needed to encourage innovation, save New Mexico taxpayers' money and help avoid IT failures like the initial rollout of the healthcare.gov website. I'm proud of the meaningful bipartisan work that went into this critical legislation, and I will continue to work with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to push for the updates and investments needed to provide best service we can for the taxpayers.\" FITARA enhances agency CIOs' authorities and strengthens key initiatives proposed in the administration's 25 Point Implementation Plan to Reform Federal Information Technology Management. Highlights include: -More authority for chief information officers over the budget, governance and personnel processes for agency IT investments.  -Increased transparency for IT investments and a requirement that agencies review troubled investments. -The bill directs the development of an enhanced government-wide software purchasing program that agencies may use to lower acquisition and management costs. -Mandatory annual reviews all of agency IT investments to eliminate duplication and waste.  -Consolidates over 9,000 federal data centers.\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1825", "Udall Secures Technology Transfer Provisions for N.M. Labs in Major Legislation [press_release]", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 15, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Secures Technology Transfer Provisions for N.M. Labs in Major Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Provisions in defense and appropriations bills increase funding and direct Energy Department to emphasize tech transfer\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall today announced that two major bills passed by Congress last week include key reforms he has championed to improve technology transfer at New Mexico's national laboratories and create new businesses and jobs in New Mexico. \n  Udall is pushing the federal government to improve its tech transfer efforts to bring to market research being done at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs as well as White Sands Missile Range and the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base. In March 2014, he introduced the Accelerating Technology Transfer to Advance Innovation for the Nation (ATTAIN) Act to further improve DOE's tech transfer program. While he will keep pushing for passage of the full bill, the two provisions approved last week will help implement elements of his legislation. \n  \"Improving tech transfer is key to helping researchers get innovations from the lab bench to the marketplace. It's one important way we can help create new businesses and high-tech jobs in New Mexico,\" Udall said. \"The Department of Energy hasn't been doing nearly enough with tech transfer, but with the passage of these provisions, we're making progress. These bills direct the Department of Energy to prioritize spending on technology transfer from our national labs and support pilot projects to encourage researchers to take the leap and create businesses based on their work.\" \n  Udall pushed for the technology transfer provisions to be included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds the federal government through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year. Both the NDAA and the \"omnibus\" passed Congress last week and are headed to the president for his signature. \n  Udall's tech transfer amendment in the NDAA directs DOE to prioritize spending on energy technology commercialization from our national laboratories, and addresses issues also noted by the DOE Inspector General (IG). In a February 2014 report, the IG found that \"instead of identifying and directing funds for the Commercialization Fund to the achievement of specified goals, the Department deployed a retrospective approach\" by merely classifying existing spending as technology transfer to meet the Congressional requirement from the 2005 Energy Policy Act. \n  Udall's provision in the \"omnibus\" appropriations bill directs $4.8 million to go to technology transfer at the Department of Defense, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators. \n  \u00a0\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-secures-technology-transfer-provisions-for-nm-labs-in-major-legislation", "Udall Secures Technology Transfer Provisions for N.M. Labs in Major Legislation", "2014-12-15", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 15, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Secures Technology Transfer Provisions for N.M. Labs in Major Legislation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Provisions in defense and appropriations bills increase funding and direct Energy Department to emphasize tech transfer\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall today announced that two major bills passed by Congress last week include key reforms he has championed to improve technology transfer at New Mexico's national laboratories and create new businesses and jobs in New Mexico. \n  Udall is pushing the federal government to improve its tech transfer efforts to bring to market research being done at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs as well as White Sands Missile Range and the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base. In March 2014, he introduced the Accelerating Technology Transfer to Advance Innovation for the Nation (ATTAIN) Act to further improve DOE's tech transfer program. While he will keep pushing for passage of the full bill, the two provisions approved last week will help implement elements of his legislation. \n  \"Improving tech transfer is key to helping researchers get innovations from the lab bench to the marketplace. It's one important way we can help create new businesses and high-tech jobs in New Mexico,\" Udall said. \"The Department of Energy hasn't been doing nearly enough with tech transfer, but with the passage of these provisions, we're making progress. These bills direct the Department of Energy to prioritize spending on technology transfer from our national labs and support pilot projects to encourage researchers to take the leap and create businesses based on their work.\" \n  Udall pushed for the technology transfer provisions to be included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and in the so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which funds the federal government through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year. Both the NDAA and the \"omnibus\" passed Congress last week and are headed to the president for his signature. \n  Udall's tech transfer amendment in the NDAA directs DOE to prioritize spending on energy technology commercialization from our national laboratories, and addresses issues also noted by the DOE Inspector General (IG). In a February 2014 report, the IG found that \"instead of identifying and directing funds for the Commercialization Fund to the achievement of specified goals, the Department deployed a retrospective approach\" by merely classifying existing spending as technology transfer to meet the Congressional requirement from the 2005 Energy Policy Act. \n  Udall's provision in the \"omnibus\" appropriations bill directs $4.8 million to go to technology transfer at the Department of Defense, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators. \n  \n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1826", "Udall, Heinrich Welcome Passage of Bill to Fund N.M. Priorities [press_release]", "2014-12-14", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 14, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Welcome Passage of Bill to Fund N.M. Priorities \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Appropriations bill funds PILT, lab programs including B61, N.M. military bases, WIPP recovery, technology transfer, water projects and other programs\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich last night joined the full Senate in voting 56-40 for a so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill to fund the government, including critical New Mexico programs, through September 2015, the end of the Fiscal Year. The bill includes full funding for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which helps pay for law enforcement, schools, roads and other local government services New Mexicans rely on. It also provides over $100 million in additional funding to continue recovery from the radiation leak at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), as well as continued work on the B61 Life Extension Project (LEP) at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs; construction and projects at Kirtland and Cannon Air Force bases; technology transfer to help stimulate job growth; rural water projects; and public lands programs. Udall said: \"This bill includes critical funding for New Mexico, to sustain our national labs and military bases, continue recovery at WIPP, and ensure New Mexicans can count on basic government services like schools, public safety, roads and so many other needs. I'm extremely disappointed that this bill also contains measures that weaken campaign finance laws and roll back Wall Street reforms. Our duty is to the American people-not Wall Street billionaires and bankers. But at the end of the day, I could not risk a government shutdown. I will continue to do everything I can as a member of the Appropriations Committee to get Congress back to working for New Mexico and the American people. The American people deserve better than this broken process. They deserve a Congress that works-that is open and deliberate-not last-minute deals and gimmicks for special interests. We cannot keep getting in just under the wire.\" Heinrich said: \"After careful consideration of this bill, I've decided that the good outweighs the bad. New Mexico relies heavily on these federal investments. Home to military bases, national laboratories, and WIPP, our state serves the nation in many ways. Federal dollars help fund critical education initiatives, infrastructure projects, and other vitally important economic drivers. This appropriations bill also includes funding for our nation's response to the Ebola epidemic and to combat the threat presented by the terrorist organization ISIL. \"It is very unfortunate that the bill includes policy riders that I don't support and which don't belong there - including ones that would open the floodgates to special interest money influencing our elections and undo reforms to protect hardworking taxpayers from having to again bailout Wall Street bankers. I'm also opposed to an amendment that could compromise the retirement security of hardworking families. While I'm pleased that PILT funding was included in the final package, I will continue to push for full and dedicated funding for Secure Rural Schools to give our counties the budget certainty they need. Our economy desperately needs long-term stability. It doesn't need another government shutdown. We must continue to work together and be willing to compromise in order to get things done for the American people and New Mexico.\" New Mexico funding in the bill includes: PILT: with $70 million included in a defense bill, which passed Congress last week, and $372 million in the omnibus, the PILT program is funded at $442 million. The total will be divided according to a formula determined by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Last year, New Mexico counties received $37 million. WIPP, LOS ALAMOS AND SANDIA NATIONAL LABS  -WIPP: The bill provides $324 million for WIPP, including the administration's original funding request of $220 million. The additional $104 million is designated for recovery from the radiological accident. -B61 Life Extension Project: $643 million. Both Los Alamos and Sandia national labs are instrumental in carrying out this program, which maintains our nation's nuclear weapons stockpile while allowing for the eventual elimination of the nation's largest warhead, the B83. The bill fully funds the B61 LEP for FY15 and supports recent job increases at Sandia. The funding is a direct result of Udall's successful fight against an attempt in FY14 to cut the program. -LANL Cleanup: $190 million. -LANL Recapitalization: $22.7 million for 10 projects plus $23 million for TA-55 Reinvestment Project Phase II and III LANL -Sandia National Laboratory Recapitalization: $30.8 million for seven projects. -Technology Transfer: $4.8 million for technology transfer at the Department of Defense, $2.1 million above the president's request, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program, requested by Senator Udall. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators. MILITARY/DOD  -Cannon Air Force Base: $23.3 million for a Squadron Operations Facility -Kirtland Air Force Base High Energy Laser: $14 million for high energy laser research initiatives, $1.0 million more than the president's request for work that will partially be done at KAFB. -Kirtland Air Force Base Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Office: $20 million. The ORS Office is responsible for responsive space capabilities that enable rapid deployment of military resources all around the world. Senator Udall secured this funding, not included in the president's request, to complete the development, launch, and operations of the ORS mission and to support the integration of ORS approaches across the space capabilities in the Air Force. -DOD Starbase Funding: $25 million increase in funding for STARBASE, a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education program for fifth graders. Senator Udall succeeded in pushing for this civilian program that provides 25 hours of engaging STEM instruction. The technology-rich military environment allows students to experience first-hand \"real-world\" application of STEM skills. The DoD STARBASE Program creates an unequaled bridge between the U.S. Military and STEM education with local school students that is achieved through strong civilian/military leadership involvement, state of the art curriculum and technology, nationwide program standardization, a complete understanding of military culture, and assured access to military installations. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)  The legislation includes a total of $159.1 billion, $1.8 billion above the enacted fiscal year 2014 level.  -VA Medical Services: $45.2 billion - providing care and treatment for approximately 6.7 million veterans. This includes: $7.2 billion in mental health care services; $133 million in suicide prevention activities; $229 million for traumatic brain injury treatment; $7.4 billion in homeless veterans treatment, services, housing, and job training; and $250 million in rural health initiatives.  -Rural health: $209 million to help address new costs related to the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 including hiring medical staff, expanding facility capacity, and allowing rural veterans to seek care outside the VA system.  -Oversight: To help address issues related to the \"wait list\" scandal at the VA in New Mexico and elsewhere, Senator Udall pushed for additional funding for the VA Office of Inspector General. The agreement increases funding by $5 million over the fiscal year 2014 level to provide the resources necessary to continue the Office's audits of hospital appointment scheduling and lapses in patient care. The legislation also includes language directing the VA Office of the Medical Inspector to report on problems or deficiencies in the implementation of its recommendations, and on any violations of law by VA employees.  -Advance Funding for Veterans Medical Programs: $58.7 billion in advance fiscal year 2016 funding for the VA. This funding will provide for medical services, medical support and compliance, and medical facilities, and ensure that our veterans have continued, full access to their medical care. WATER PROJECTS  -Navajo-Gallup Project: The bill provides $81 million for the construction of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project and the historic 2010 Navajo Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The project will supply water to the eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the city of Gallup, serving the future water needs of approximately 250,000 people.\nOther Water Settlements  -Aamodt: $3 million  -Taos Pueblo: $4 million  -Middle Rio Grande: The bill includes a provision encouraging development and implementation of the Water Acquisition Program along the Middle Rio Grande and San Juan Chama Projects and the Physical Habitat Restoration and Management efforts along the San Acacia Reach consistent with fiscal year 2014 activities.\n  BUREAU OF RECLAMATION  -Westwide Drought Response: $50 million for drought response in Western states.\n-Reauthorization of Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991 (a provision from Udall's drought bill, the New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014)\n-Secure Water Act: The bill increases the authorization from $200 million to $300 million (also a provision from Udall's New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014).\n-Rural Water Projects: $31 million in discretionary funds for rural water projects, which may be used to fund projects like the Eastern New Mexico-Ute Pipeline.\nThe bill also includes specific funding for the following Bureau of Reclamation projects in New Mexico:  -Carlsbad Project: $4,139,000  -Middle Rio Grande Project: $22,735,000  -Rio Grande Project: $5,406,000  -Rio Grande Pueblos Project: $650,000  -Tucumcari Project: $34,000  -Navajo Indian Irrigation Project: $3.4 million\n  ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS  -Tribal Partnership Program: $2.5M  -Espanola Valley, Rio Grande & Tributaries: $300,000  -Rio Grande Basin, NM, CO, and TX (Sec. 729): $300,000  -Middle Rio Grande Flood Protection, Bernalillo to Belen: $276,000  -Abiquiu Dam: $2,794,000  -Cochiti Lake: $3,587,000  -Conchas Lake: $2,794,000  -Galisteo Dam: $1,150,000  -Inspection of Completed Environmental Projects: $30,000  -Inspection of Completed Works: $654,000  -Jemez Canyon Dam: $1,392,000  -Rio Grande Endangered Species Collaborative Program: $2,492,000  -Santa Rosa Dam and Lake: $1,594,000  -Scheduling Reservoir Operations: $330,000  -Two Rivers Dam: $797,000  -Upper Rio Grande Water Operations Model Study: $1,289,000 WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION AND PREVENTION (nationwide)  -Hazardous fuels reduction activities: $526 million -Wildfire suppression: $1.394 billion total for the Forest Service and Department of the Interior to respond to forest fires. -Aircraft acquisition to enhance firefighting capacity, effectiveness: $65 million -Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Fund: $40 million for ecological restoration treatments of forests. This helps prevent fires and make healthy watersheds. Two projects in New Mexico are ongoing (Zuni Mountain and Jemez Mountains) FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT (nationwide)  -Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB): $7.5 million for the PCLOB to help ensure that federal laws and policies related to terrorism appropriately consider privacy and civil liberties. These resources, $4.4 million more than the fiscal year 2014 enacted level, will enable the PCLOB to pursue its mission without delay.\nLAW ENFORCEMENT (nationwide)  -10 temporary federal judgeships extended for one year, including one in New Mexico. -Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP): $375 million, $8 million above the fiscal year 2014 enacted level. This includes $245 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program and $93.5 million for the Drug-Free Communities program. -State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement: $2.3 billion to support state and local law enforcement with the tools they need to fight violent crime and gangs. This amount is $55 million more than the fiscal year 2014 level and includes funding for key grant programs, such as $376 million for Byrne Justice Assistance Grants, $180 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) hiring grants, $430 million for Violence Against Women Act programs and $252 million for juvenile justice and mentoring grants. -Heroin Crisis: $7 million to fund a new program within the COPS Office for anti-heroin task forces. Competitive grants will be awarded for drug enforcement, including investigations and activities related to the distribution of heroin or unlawful diversion and distribution of prescription opioids. The agreement calls on the DOJ to take the lead in convening experts in the law enforcement, medical, public health and educational fields to develop a comprehensive government-wide solution for this crisis. The bill also provides funding for OJP grant programs available to state and local governments for residential drug treatment ($10 million), prescription drug monitoring ($11 million), and drug courts ($41 million). -Funding for 35 new Immigration Judge Teams allowing Executive Office for Immigration Review to adjudicate up to 39,000 more cases annually.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/in-the-news/santa-fe-new-mexican-commentary-us-must-never-torture-again", "Santa Fe New Mexican: Commentary: U.S. must never torture again", "2014-12-14", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Santa Fe New Mexican: Commentary: U.S. must never torture again\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\u00a0\r\n                    U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Sunday, December 14, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Torture is wrong. It is un-American, and it doesn\u2019t work.\r\nRecognizing this, the president signed an executive order in 2009 that limited interrogations by any American personnel to the guidelines in the Army Field Manual, reinforcing our commitment to the Geneva Conventions.\r\n\r\nThis closed the book on the Bush administration\u2019s interrogation program.\r\n\r\n\r\nBut make no mistake. These weren\u2019t just \u201cenhanced interrogations.\u201d This was torture.\r\n\r\n\r\nReleasing the Senate Intelligence Committee\u2019s study of the CIA\u2019s detention and interrogation program to the American people will finally provide a thorough accounting of what happened and how it happened, and ensure that it never, ever happens again.\r\n\r\n\r\nThis was a grave chapter in our history. The actions taken under this program cost our nation global credibility, and they put the lives of Americans at risk.\r\n\r\n\r\nSome have suggested that releasing this report could put American lives at risk. But let\u2019s be clear, it has been the use of torture that puts Americans unnecessarily in harm\u2019s way.\r\n\r\n\r\nThere is no question that there would never be a \u201cgood time\u201d to release this study. We all know that for months now, terrorists in the extremist group Islamic State have been kidnapping and barbarically killing innocent Americans because of what we, as a nation, stand for. The response to their threats and terrorism should not be for us to change our American values. It should be to stand firm in our values and work with our allies to root out extremism and terrorism in all its forms.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe release of this study will finally let us face what was done in the name of the American people, and allow for future generations to use these findings to learn from the mistakes made by the architects of this program. This is an objective and fact-based study. It is a fair study. And it is the only comprehensive study conducted of this program and the CIA\u2019s treatment of its detainees in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.\r\n\r\n\r\nFurthermore, it is important to know that at every turn, CIA leadership avoided congressional oversight, and even worse, misled Congress. The CIA deliberately kept the vast majority of the Senate and House Intelligence Committees in the dark on the interrogation techniques until the day the president revealed the detention and interrogation program to the world in 2006 \u2014 four years after it began.\r\n\r\n\r\nEven then, misrepresentations to the committee about the effectiveness of the CIA\u2019s detention and interrogation program continued, in large part because the CIA had never performed any comprehensive review of the effectiveness of the interrogation techniques or the actions of its officers.\r\n\r\n\r\nHowever, we need to stop treating the issue of torture as one worthy of a discussion over its practical merits. This is about torture being immoral. Being un-American. Reducing a human being to a state of despair through systematic subjugation, pain and humiliation is unquestionably immoral. And it should never happen again with the blessing of the American government.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe information in the Intelligence Committee\u2019s study released to the public will finally pull back the curtain on the terrible judgment that went into creating and implementing this interrogation program.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe decision to use these techniques and the defense of the program were the work of a small number of people at the CIA. This study is in no way a condemnation of the thousands of men and women at this great agency who work tirelessly every day to protect and defend our nation from very real and imminent threats using lawful and effective measures.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe public interest in this issue has centered on the personalities involved and the political battle waged in the release of this study. But those stories are reductive, and I hope they will soon pass. Because the story of what happened in the CIA\u2019s detention and interrogation program \u2014 and how it happened \u2014 is too important, and needs to be fully understood so that future generations will not make the same mistakes our country made out of anger, fear and expediency.\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen America engages in these acts with authorization from the highest levels of government, we invite others to treat our citizens the same way. This study should serve as a warning to those who would make similar choices in the future.\r\n\r\n\r\nLet us learn from the mistakes of the past \u2014 and let us never, ever repeat these mistakes.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-welcome-passage-of-bill-to-fund-nm-priorities", "Udall, Heinrich Welcome Passage of Bill to Fund N.M. Priorities", "2014-12-14", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Welcome Passage of Bill to Fund N.M. Priorities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAppropriations bill funds PILT, lab programs including B61, N.M. military bases, WIPP recovery, technology transfer, water projects and other programs\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSunday, December 14, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich joined the full Senate in voting 56-40 for a so-called \u201comnibus\u201d appropriations bill to fund the government, including critical New Mexico programs, through September 2015, the end of the Fiscal Year.\r\nThe bill includes full funding for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which helps pay for law enforcement, schools, roads and other local government services New Mexicans rely on. It also provides over $100 million in additional funding to continue recovery from the radiation leak at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), as well as continued work on the B61 Life Extension Project (LEP) at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs; construction and projects at Kirtland and Cannon Air Force bases; technology transfer to help stimulate job growth; rural water projects; and public lands programs.\r\nUdall said: \u201cThis bill includes critical funding for New Mexico, to sustain our national labs and military bases, continue recovery at WIPP, and ensure New Mexicans can count on basic government services like schools, public safety, roads and so many other needs. I\u2019m extremely disappointed that this bill also contains measures that weaken campaign finance laws and roll back Wall Street reforms. Our duty is to the American people\u2014not Wall Street billionaires and bankers. But at the end of the day, I could not risk a government shutdown. I will continue to do everything I can as a member of the Appropriations Committee to get Congress back to working for New Mexico and the American people. The American people deserve better than this broken process. They deserve a Congress that works\u2014that is open and deliberate\u2014not last-minute deals and gimmicks for special interests. We cannot keep getting in just under the wire.\u201d\r\nHeinrich said: \"After careful consideration of this bill, I've decided that the good outweighs the bad. New Mexico relies heavily on these federal investments. Home to military bases, national laboratories, and WIPP, our state serves the nation in many ways. Federal dollars help fund critical education initiatives, infrastructure projects, and other vitally important economic drivers. This appropriations bill also includes funding for our nation's response to the Ebola epidemic and to combat the threat presented by the terrorist organization ISIL.\r\n\u201cIt is very unfortunate that the bill includes policy riders that I don't support and which don't belong there - including ones that would open the floodgates to special interest money influencing our elections and undo reforms to protect hardworking taxpayers from having to again bailout Wall Street bankers. I'm also opposed to an amendment that could compromise the retirement security of hardworking families. While I'm pleased that PILT funding was included in the final package, I will continue to push for full and dedicated funding for Secure Rural Schools to give our counties the budget certainty they need. Our economy desperately needs long-term stability. It doesn't need another government shutdown. We must continue to work together and be willing to compromise in order to get things done for the American people and New Mexico.\"\r\nNew Mexico funding in the bill includes:\r\nPILT:\u00a0with $70 million included in a defense bill, which passed Congress last week, and $372 million in the omnibus, the PILT program is funded at $442 million. The total will be divided according to a formula determined by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Last year, New Mexico counties received $37 million.\r\nWIPP, LOS ALAMOS AND SANDIA NATIONAL LABS\r\n-WIPP:\u00a0The bill provides $324 million for WIPP, including the administration\u2019s original funding request of $220 million. The additional $104 million is designated for recovery from the radiological accident.\r\n-B61 Life Extension Project:\u00a0$643 million. Both Los Alamos and Sandia national labs are instrumental in carrying out this program, which maintains our nation\u2019s nuclear weapons stockpile while allowing for the eventual elimination of the nation\u2019s largest warhead, the B83. The bill fully funds the B61 LEP for FY15 and supports recent job increases at Sandia. The funding is a direct result of Udall\u2019s successful fight against an attempt in FY14 to cut the program.\r\n-LANL Cleanup:\u00a0$190 million.\r\n-LANL Recapitalization: $22.7 million for 10 projects plus $23 million for TA-55 Reinvestment Project Phase II and III LANL\r\n-Sandia National Laboratory Recapitalization: $30.8 million for seven projects.\r\n-Technology Transfer: $4.8 million for technology transfer at the Department of Defense, $2.1 million above the president\u2019s request, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program, requested by Senator Udall. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators.\r\nMILITARY/DOD\r\n-Cannon Air Force Base: $23.3 million for a Squadron Operations Facility\r\n-Kirtland Air Force Base High Energy Laser: $14 million for high energy laser research initiatives, $1.0 million more than the president\u2019s request for work that will partially be done at KAFB.\r\n-Kirtland Air Force Base Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Office: $20 million. The ORS Office is responsible for responsive space capabilities that enable rapid deployment of military resources all around the world. Senator Udall secured this funding, not included in the president\u2019s request, to complete the development, launch, and operations of the ORS mission and to support the integration of ORS approaches across the space capabilities in the Air Force.\r\n-DOD Starbase Funding: $25 million increase in funding for STARBASE, a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education program for fifth graders. Senator Udall succeeded in pushing for this civilian program that provides 25 hours of engaging STEM instruction. The technology-rich military environment allows students to experience first-hand \u201creal-world\u201d application of STEM skills. The DoD STARBASE Program creates an unequaled bridge between the U.S. Military and STEM education with local school students that is achieved through strong civilian/military leadership involvement, state of the art curriculum and technology, nationwide program standardization, a complete understanding of military culture, and assured access to military installations.\r\nDEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)\r\nThe legislation includes a total of $159.1 billion, $1.8 billion above the enacted fiscal year 2014 level.\r\n-VA Medical Services: $45.2 billion \u2013 providing care and treatment for approximately 6.7 million veterans. This includes: $7.2 billion in mental health care services; $133 million in suicide prevention activities; $229 million for traumatic brain injury treatment; $7.4 billion in homeless veterans treatment, services, housing, and job training; and $250 million in rural health initiatives.\r\n-Rural health: $209 million to help address new costs related to the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 including hiring medical staff, expanding facility capacity, and allowing rural veterans to seek care outside the VA system.\r\n-Oversight: To help address issues related to the \u201cwait list\u201d scandal at the VA in New Mexico and elsewhere, Senator Udall pushed for additional funding for the VA Office of Inspector General. The agreement increases funding by $5 million over the fiscal year 2014 level to provide the resources necessary to continue the Office\u2019s audits of hospital appointment scheduling and lapses in patient care. The legislation also includes language directing the VA Office of the Medical Inspector to report on problems or deficiencies in the implementation of its recommendations, and on any violations of law by VA employees.\r\n-Advance Funding for Veterans Medical Programs: $58.7 billion in advance fiscal year 2016 funding for the VA. This funding will provide for medical services, medical support and compliance, and medical facilities, and ensure that our veterans have continued, full access to their medical care.\r\nWATER PROJECTS\r\n-Navajo-Gallup Project: The bill provides $81 million for the construction of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project and the historic 2010 Navajo Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The project will supply water to the eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the city of Gallup, serving the future water needs of approximately 250,000 people.\r\nOther Water Settlements\r\n-Aamodt: $3 million\r\n-Taos Pueblo: $4 million\r\n-Middle Rio Grande: The bill includes a provision encouraging development and implementation of the Water Acquisition Program along the Middle Rio Grande and San Juan Chama Projects and the Physical Habitat Restoration and Management efforts along the San Acacia Reach consistent with fiscal year 2014 activities.\r\nBUREAU OF RECLAMATION\r\n-Westwide Drought Response: $50 million for drought response in Western states.\r\n-Reauthorization of Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991 (a provision from Udall\u2019s drought bill, the New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014)\r\n-Secure Water Act: The bill increases the authorization from $200 million to $300 million (also a provision from Udall\u2019s New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014).\r\n-Rural Water Projects: $31 million in discretionary funds for rural water projects, which may be used to fund projects like the Eastern New Mexico-Ute Pipeline.\r\nThe bill also includes specific funding for the following Bureau of Reclamation projects in New Mexico:\r\n-Carlsbad Project: $4,139,000\r\n-Middle Rio Grande Project: $22,735,000\r\n-Rio Grande Project: $5,406,000\r\n-Rio Grande Pueblos Project: $650,000\r\n-Tucumcari Project: $34,000\r\n-Navajo Indian Irrigation Project: $3.4 million\u00a0\r\nARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS\r\n-Tribal Partnership Program: $2.5M\r\n-Espanola Valley, Rio Grande & Tributaries: $300,000\r\n-Rio Grande Basin, NM, CO, and TX (Sec. 729): $300,000\r\n-Middle Rio Grande Flood Protection, Bernalillo to Belen: $276,000\r\n-Abiquiu Dam: $2,794,000\r\n-Cochiti Lake: $3,587,000\r\n-Conchas Lake: $2,794,000\r\n-Galisteo Dam: $1,150,000\r\n-Inspection of Completed Environmental Projects: $30,000\r\n-Inspection of Completed Works: $654,000\r\n-Jemez Canyon Dam: $1,392,000\r\n-Rio Grande Endangered Species Collaborative Program: $2,492,000\r\n-Santa Rosa Dam and Lake: $1,594,000\r\n-Scheduling Reservoir Operations: $330,000\r\n-Two Rivers Dam: $797,000\r\n-Upper Rio Grande Water Operations Model Study: $1,289,000\r\nWILDFIRE SUPPRESSION AND PREVENTION (nationwide)\r\n-Hazardous fuels reduction activities: $526 million\r\n\u00a0\r\n-Wildfire suppression: $1.394 billion total for the Forest Service and Department of the Interior to respond to forest fires.\u00a0\r\n-Aircraft acquisition to enhance firefighting capacity, effectiveness: $65 million\u00a0\r\n-Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Fund: $40 million for ecological restoration treatments of forests. This helps prevent fires and make healthy watersheds. Two projects in New Mexico are ongoing (Zuni Mountain and Jemez Mountains)\u00a0\r\nFINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT (nationwide)\r\n-Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB): $7.5 million for the PCLOB to help ensure that federal laws and policies related to terrorism appropriately consider privacy and civil liberties. These resources, $4.4 million more than the fiscal year 2014 enacted level, will enable the PCLOB to pursue its mission without delay.\r\nLAW ENFORCEMENT (nationwide)\r\n-10 temporary federal judgeships extended for one year, including one in New Mexico.\u00a0\r\n-Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP): $375 million, $8 million above the fiscal year 2014 enacted level. This includes $245 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program and $93.5 million for the Drug-Free Communities program.\r\n-State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement: $2.3 billion to support state and local law enforcement with the tools they need to fight violent crime and gangs. This amount is $55 million more than the fiscal year 2014 level and includes funding for key grant programs, such as $376 million for Byrne Justice Assistance Grants, $180 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) hiring grants, $430 million for Violence Against Women Act programs and $252 million for juvenile justice and mentoring grants.\r\n-Heroin Crisis: $7 million to fund a new program within the COPS Office for anti-heroin task forces. Competitive grants will be awarded for drug enforcement, including investigations and activities related to the distribution of heroin or unlawful diversion and distribution of prescription opioids. The agreement calls on the DOJ to take the lead in convening experts in the law enforcement, medical, public health and educational fields to develop a comprehensive government-wide solution for this crisis. The bill also provides funding for OJP grant programs available to state and local governments for residential drug treatment ($10 million), prescription drug monitoring ($11 million), and drug courts ($41 million).\u00a0\r\n-Funding for 35 new Immigration Judge Teams allowing Executive Office for Immigration Review to adjudicate up to 39,000 more cases annually.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-welcome-passage-of-bill-to-fund-nm-priorities", "Udall, Heinrich Welcome Passage of Bill to Fund N.M. Priorities", "2014-12-14", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 14, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Welcome Passage of Bill to Fund N.M. Priorities \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Appropriations bill funds PILT, lab programs including B61, N.M. military bases, WIPP recovery, technology transfer, water projects and other programs\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich last night joined the full Senate in voting 56-40 for a so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill to fund the government, including critical New Mexico programs, through September 2015, the end of the Fiscal Year. The bill includes full funding for the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which helps pay for law enforcement, schools, roads and other local government services New Mexicans rely on. It also provides over $100 million in additional funding to continue recovery from the radiation leak at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), as well as continued work on the B61 Life Extension Project (LEP) at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs; construction and projects at Kirtland and Cannon Air Force bases; technology transfer to help stimulate job growth; rural water projects; and public lands programs. Udall said: \"This bill includes critical funding for New Mexico, to sustain our national labs and military bases, continue recovery at WIPP, and ensure New Mexicans can count on basic government services like schools, public safety, roads and so many other needs. I'm extremely disappointed that this bill also contains measures that weaken campaign finance laws and roll back Wall Street reforms. Our duty is to the American people-not Wall Street billionaires and bankers. But at the end of the day, I could not risk a government shutdown. I will continue to do everything I can as a member of the Appropriations Committee to get Congress back to working for New Mexico and the American people. The American people deserve better than this broken process. They deserve a Congress that works-that is open and deliberate-not last-minute deals and gimmicks for special interests. We cannot keep getting in just under the wire.\" Heinrich said: \"After careful consideration of this bill, I've decided that the good outweighs the bad. New Mexico relies heavily on these federal investments. Home to military bases, national laboratories, and WIPP, our state serves the nation in many ways. Federal dollars help fund critical education initiatives, infrastructure projects, and other vitally important economic drivers. This appropriations bill also includes funding for our nation's response to the Ebola epidemic and to combat the threat presented by the terrorist organization ISIL. \"It is very unfortunate that the bill includes policy riders that I don't support and which don't belong there - including ones that would open the floodgates to special interest money influencing our elections and undo reforms to protect hardworking taxpayers from having to again bailout Wall Street bankers. I'm also opposed to an amendment that could compromise the retirement security of hardworking families. While I'm pleased that PILT funding was included in the final package, I will continue to push for full and dedicated funding for Secure Rural Schools to give our counties the budget certainty they need. Our economy desperately needs long-term stability. It doesn't need another government shutdown. We must continue to work together and be willing to compromise in order to get things done for the American people and New Mexico.\" New Mexico funding in the bill includes: PILT: with $70 million included in a defense bill, which passed Congress last week, and $372 million in the omnibus, the PILT program is funded at $442 million. The total will be divided according to a formula determined by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Last year, New Mexico counties received $37 million. WIPP, LOS ALAMOS AND SANDIA NATIONAL LABS  -WIPP: The bill provides $324 million for WIPP, including the administration's original funding request of $220 million. The additional $104 million is designated for recovery from the radiological accident. -B61 Life Extension Project: $643 million. Both Los Alamos and Sandia national labs are instrumental in carrying out this program, which maintains our nation's nuclear weapons stockpile while allowing for the eventual elimination of the nation's largest warhead, the B83. The bill fully funds the B61 LEP for FY15 and supports recent job increases at Sandia. The funding is a direct result of Udall's successful fight against an attempt in FY14 to cut the program. -LANL Cleanup: $190 million. -LANL Recapitalization: $22.7 million for 10 projects plus $23 million for TA-55 Reinvestment Project Phase II and III LANL -Sandia National Laboratory Recapitalization: $30.8 million for seven projects. -Technology Transfer: $4.8 million for technology transfer at the Department of Defense, $2.1 million above the president's request, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program, requested by Senator Udall. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators. MILITARY/DOD  -Cannon Air Force Base: $23.3 million for a Squadron Operations Facility -Kirtland Air Force Base High Energy Laser: $14 million for high energy laser research initiatives, $1.0 million more than the president's request for work that will partially be done at KAFB. -Kirtland Air Force Base Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Office: $20 million. The ORS Office is responsible for responsive space capabilities that enable rapid deployment of military resources all around the world. Senator Udall secured this funding, not included in the president's request, to complete the development, launch, and operations of the ORS mission and to support the integration of ORS approaches across the space capabilities in the Air Force. -DOD Starbase Funding: $25 million increase in funding for STARBASE, a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education program for fifth graders. Senator Udall succeeded in pushing for this civilian program that provides 25 hours of engaging STEM instruction. The technology-rich military environment allows students to experience first-hand \"real-world\" application of STEM skills. The DoD STARBASE Program creates an unequaled bridge between the U.S. Military and STEM education with local school students that is achieved through strong civilian/military leadership involvement, state of the art curriculum and technology, nationwide program standardization, a complete understanding of military culture, and assured access to military installations. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)  The legislation includes a total of $159.1 billion, $1.8 billion above the enacted fiscal year 2014 level.  -VA Medical Services: $45.2 billion - providing care and treatment for approximately 6.7 million veterans. This includes: $7.2 billion in mental health care services; $133 million in suicide prevention activities; $229 million for traumatic brain injury treatment; $7.4 billion in homeless veterans treatment, services, housing, and job training; and $250 million in rural health initiatives.  -Rural health: $209 million to help address new costs related to the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 including hiring medical staff, expanding facility capacity, and allowing rural veterans to seek care outside the VA system.  -Oversight: To help address issues related to the \"wait list\" scandal at the VA in New Mexico and elsewhere, Senator Udall pushed for additional funding for the VA Office of Inspector General. The agreement increases funding by $5 million over the fiscal year 2014 level to provide the resources necessary to continue the Office's audits of hospital appointment scheduling and lapses in patient care. The legislation also includes language directing the VA Office of the Medical Inspector to report on problems or deficiencies in the implementation of its recommendations, and on any violations of law by VA employees.  -Advance Funding for Veterans Medical Programs: $58.7 billion in advance fiscal year 2016 funding for the VA. This funding will provide for medical services, medical support and compliance, and medical facilities, and ensure that our veterans have continued, full access to their medical care. WATER PROJECTS  -Navajo-Gallup Project: The bill provides $81 million for the construction of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project and the historic 2010 Navajo Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The project will supply water to the eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the city of Gallup, serving the future water needs of approximately 250,000 people.\nOther Water Settlements  -Aamodt: $3 million  -Taos Pueblo: $4 million  -Middle Rio Grande: The bill includes a provision encouraging development and implementation of the Water Acquisition Program along the Middle Rio Grande and San Juan Chama Projects and the Physical Habitat Restoration and Management efforts along the San Acacia Reach consistent with fiscal year 2014 activities.\n  BUREAU OF RECLAMATION  -Westwide Drought Response: $50 million for drought response in Western states.\n-Reauthorization of Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991 (a provision from Udall's drought bill, the New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014)\n-Secure Water Act: The bill increases the authorization from $200 million to $300 million (also a provision from Udall's New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014).\n-Rural Water Projects: $31 million in discretionary funds for rural water projects, which may be used to fund projects like the Eastern New Mexico-Ute Pipeline.\nThe bill also includes specific funding for the following Bureau of Reclamation projects in New Mexico:  -Carlsbad Project: $4,139,000  -Middle Rio Grande Project: $22,735,000  -Rio Grande Project: $5,406,000  -Rio Grande Pueblos Project: $650,000  -Tucumcari Project: $34,000  -Navajo Indian Irrigation Project: $3.4 million\n  ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS  -Tribal Partnership Program: $2.5M  -Espanola Valley, Rio Grande & Tributaries: $300,000  -Rio Grande Basin, NM, CO, and TX (Sec. 729): $300,000  -Middle Rio Grande Flood Protection, Bernalillo to Belen: $276,000  -Abiquiu Dam: $2,794,000  -Cochiti Lake: $3,587,000  -Conchas Lake: $2,794,000  -Galisteo Dam: $1,150,000  -Inspection of Completed Environmental Projects: $30,000  -Inspection of Completed Works: $654,000  -Jemez Canyon Dam: $1,392,000  -Rio Grande Endangered Species Collaborative Program: $2,492,000  -Santa Rosa Dam and Lake: $1,594,000  -Scheduling Reservoir Operations: $330,000  -Two Rivers Dam: $797,000  -Upper Rio Grande Water Operations Model Study: $1,289,000 WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION AND PREVENTION (nationwide)  -Hazardous fuels reduction activities: $526 million -Wildfire suppression: $1.394 billion total for the Forest Service and Department of the Interior to respond to forest fires. -Aircraft acquisition to enhance firefighting capacity, effectiveness: $65 million -Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Fund: $40 million for ecological restoration treatments of forests. This helps prevent fires and make healthy watersheds. Two projects in New Mexico are ongoing (Zuni Mountain and Jemez Mountains) FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT (nationwide)  -Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB): $7.5 million for the PCLOB to help ensure that federal laws and policies related to terrorism appropriately consider privacy and civil liberties. These resources, $4.4 million more than the fiscal year 2014 enacted level, will enable the PCLOB to pursue its mission without delay.\nLAW ENFORCEMENT (nationwide)  -10 temporary federal judgeships extended for one year, including one in New Mexico. -Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP): $375 million, $8 million above the fiscal year 2014 enacted level. This includes $245 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program and $93.5 million for the Drug-Free Communities program. -State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement: $2.3 billion to support state and local law enforcement with the tools they need to fight violent crime and gangs. This amount is $55 million more than the fiscal year 2014 level and includes funding for key grant programs, such as $376 million for Byrne Justice Assistance Grants, $180 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) hiring grants, $430 million for Violence Against Women Act programs and $252 million for juvenile justice and mentoring grants. -Heroin Crisis: $7 million to fund a new program within the COPS Office for anti-heroin task forces. Competitive grants will be awarded for drug enforcement, including investigations and activities related to the distribution of heroin or unlawful diversion and distribution of prescription opioids. The agreement calls on the DOJ to take the lead in convening experts in the law enforcement, medical, public health and educational fields to develop a comprehensive government-wide solution for this crisis. The bill also provides funding for OJP grant programs available to state and local governments for residential drug treatment ($10 million), prescription drug monitoring ($11 million), and drug courts ($41 million). -Funding for 35 new Immigration Judge Teams allowing Executive Office for Immigration Review to adjudicate up to 39,000 more cases annually.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1822", "Udall, Barrasso Energy Bill Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk [press_release]", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Barrasso Energy Bill Passes Senate, Heads to President\u0092s Desk \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bipartisan bill included in NDAA will streamline oil and gas permitting on federal lands, strengthen environmental compliance\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and John Barrasso (R-WY) welcomed the Senate's passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included their bill to permanently reauthorize and reform a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management, in New Mexico, Wyoming and other parts of the West. The bipartisan BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act of 2014 (S. 2440), which passed the Senate by unanimous consent on September 16, 2014, was subsequently included as section 3021 of the NDAA. The Act extends a pilot program from the Energy Policy Act of 2005 which has helped the BLM reduce a backlog of oil and gas permit applications and streamline the permitting process in BLM offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, N.M., and Rawlins and Casper, WY, and other states.  The NDAA passed the House of Representatives on December 4, and following today's vote, is headed to the President's desk for his signature. \"The BLM permit processing bill is good for New Mexico, which relies on the revenue associated with oil and gas development to support our economy and create jobs,\" Udall said. \"By providing the resources for environmentally responsible development, this section will provide certainty to industry and the BLM, support our nation's energy independence, and promote a \u2018do it all, do it right' energy policy. Senator Barrasso, Senator Heinrich, and our bipartisan group of cosponsors have been great partners in moving these provisions forward, and I look forward to seeing the President sign this bill.\" \"Our local BLM offices play a vital role in making sure Wyoming remains a leading energy producing state. With today's vote, these offices will now have the resources they need to ensure oil and gas permits are processed in a timely manner,\" said Barrasso. \"Our bipartisan bill will help increase energy production on federal lands, create good-paying jobs and help support local economies throughout Wyoming and the West. I'd like to thank Senator Tom Udall and our bipartisan group of co-sponsors for working together to get this legislation across the finish line and on its way to the President.\" Authorization and funding for the pilot program is set to expire next year on September 30, 2015. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act permanently reauthorizes the pilot program and provides the Interior Secretary with greater flexibility to designate additional pilot offices based on shifting oil and gas production trends. In addition, the Act sets a $9,500 fee (indexed to inflation), to take effect in FY 2016, for applications for permits to drill (APDs) and mandates that at least 75 percent of revenues collected from the APD fees remain with the BLM offices in the states where the APDs were submitted. Finally, the Act prohibits the Secretary from raising the APD fee through a rulemaking. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act was cosponsored by Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.); Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.); John Hoeven (R-N.D.); Mike Enzi (R-WY); Mark Udall (D-CO); Dean Heller (R-NV); John Walsh (D-MT); James Inhofe (R-OK); Jon Tester (D-MT); Mike Lee (R-UT); Orrin Hatch (R-UT); and Michael Bennet (D-CO). The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act has been endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers, Independent Petroleum Association of America, American Petroleum Institute, Western Energy Alliance, Western Governors' Association, National Association of Counties, and numerous municipalities, trade associations, and oil and gas companies. In a July 29 hearing before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, the Western Energy Alliance, Concho Resources, Campbell County (Wyoming) Board of Commissioners, and Bureau of Land Management all testified in strong support of the legislation.\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1823", "Udall to Join Senate Commerce Committee [press_release]", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall to Join Senate Commerce Committee \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Assignment positions Udall to fight for issues critical to N.M. communities: Trade, broadband Internet, space, technology transfer, consumer safety\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall announced that beginning in January 2015 (the 114th Congress), he will return to the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Udall will also serve on the Senate Appropriations, Foreign Relations, Indian Affairs, and Rules committees. Udall previously served on the Commerce Committee from 2009-2012. \"Returning to the Commerce Committee, in combination with my other committee assignments, puts me in an exciting position to fight for issues that will help create jobs and build New Mexico's economy - from trade and transportation to technology and the rapidly evolving space industry. \"I believe New Mexico has all the building blocks for a strong high-tech sector, including our universities and research facilities, entrepreneurs and established companies that want to commercialize new technologies. Now is the time to encourage innovation and investments that will benefit our state and national economy for years to come.  \"We are also at a critical point in the expansion of broadband Internet, which is vital for small business, education and health care, particularly in rural communities. I intend to use my position to step up the fight to ensure every community in New Mexico has high-speed Internet access. \"Finally, since my days as New Mexico's Attorney General, I have worked to strengthen consumer protection. I'm proud of my contributions to keep drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel, improve youth sports safety, prevent cell phone \u2018bill shock,' and protect consumers from fraud, and the Commerce Committee gives me a position to fight to ensure New Mexicans have the tools they need to protect themselves and their families.\" The Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee has broad jurisdiction over federal agencies and laws that govern aviation,  communications, consumer affairs, highway and pipeline safety, railroads, science, and space policies.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1824", "Udall, Heinrich Announce Momentous Gains For New Mexico With Passage Of Public Lands Package [press_release]", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Announce Momentous Gains For New Mexico With Passage Of Public Lands Package \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON -- U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich applauded the passage of a historic public lands package today. Several conservation and energy bills championed by the senators were included in the FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act. The end of year package passed the Senate by a vote of 89 to 11 and now goes to the President for his signature.\n\"This is an exciting day for everyone who enjoys public lands and parks in New Mexico. With today's vote we are protecting some of the most beloved landscapes in New Mexico and establishing a program allowing the BLM to improve its operations in Carlsbad and Farmington,\" Udall said. \"Scores of New Mexicans deserve credit for helping us get these bills across the finish line -- from former Senator Bingaman, who first introduced them, to the diverse group of sportsmen, conservationists, local business people and others who have put years of hard work into them. Protecting these special and important places will increase tourism and create jobs in the surrounding communities while ensuring New Mexicans can enjoy them for generations to come.\"\n\"This is a historic moment and absolutely critical for jobs across the western United States and particularly in New Mexico. The public lands package will help grow our economy in the energy, tourism, sporting and recreation sectors.  And new wilderness and National Park Service units will continue to make New Mexico a unmatched destination for world travelers as well as for the local families who have known for centuries that New Mexico really is the Land of Enchantment,\" Heinrich said. \"None of this would be possible were it not for years of effort and support from the local communities that helped craft these bills. Together, we have a responsibility to future generations to be good stewards of our shared culture and our natural world.\"\nSenator Heinrich, a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources delivered a floor speech yesterday on the importance of the public lands package.\nUdall and Heinrich fought to include provisions in the FY2015 NDAA that would:\nDesignate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County, New Mexico as wilderness. Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. The Columbine-Hondo is one of the most treasured places in the state and a key attraction for the local tourism economy. The Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Act (S. 776) would designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness. The bill would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River. VIDEO: Local residents discuss why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them.\nTransition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access. The Valles Caldera National Preserve Management Act (S. 285) would transfer management of the Preserve from the current Board of Trustees to the National Park Service (NPS) under a preserve model. Access for hunting and fishing would be mandated under the legislation. The proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, veterans organizations, business owners, and elected officials.\nEstablish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act (S. 507) would establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park would conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world's first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society.\nExtend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act (S. 2440) would extend a pilot program that has helped BLM balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management in New Mexico and other parts of the West. The pilot program has helped streamline operations in BLM field offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, New Mexico.\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-secures-key-provisions-in-defense-spending-bill__", "Heinrich Secures Key Provisions In Defense Spending Bill", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Secures Key Provisions In Defense Spending Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's (D-N.M.) key provisions\u00a0to strengthen national security and New Mexico's military bases, and boost New Mexico's economy were included in the final passage of the FY15\u00a0National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA sets the Department of Defense (DOD) spending levels and policies for the upcoming fiscal year.\u00a0The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 89 to 11 and now goes to the President for his signature.\r\n\"Passing the National Defense Authorization Act reflects a commitment to military readiness and upholding our responsibility to our service members and their families,\" said Sen. Heinrich. \"Furthermore, it has significant positive implications for New Mexico given our state's pivotal role in our national security. I'm pleased that this bill includes provisions I fought for, including maintaining the ORS mission at Kirtland Air Force Base, funding military construction projects that serve our troops and create jobs, and strengthening the partnership between the film industry and New Mexico's military installations. These investments will continue New Mexico's tradition of protecting our nation and spurring innovation.\"\r\nHeinrich fought to include the following provisions in the FY15 NDAA:\r\nMilitary Equitable Reimbursement Act (S. 1669): Senator Heinrich introduced a bill with Senator Vitter (R-La.) that would allow the DOD to retain payments for costs incurred during support of non-governmental film productions.\u00a0 Currently, DOD units can accept reimbursement for expenses associated with the use of military assets for production.\u00a0 However, due to ambiguity in existing law, there is uncertainty about whether DOD components, including installations like White Sands Missile Range, are eligible to keep these payments.\u00a0 As a result of Senator Heinrich's legislation, military installations will be able to retain payment.\r\nOperationally Responsive Space (ORS): Authorizes $20 million to continue the ORS program at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque.\u00a0 Since elected to Congress, Senator Heinrich has worked to keep the ORS office at Kirtland Air Force Base and continue small satellite research and development by rejecting multiple proposed terminations. He's been an effective advocate for maintaining funding and supporting additional missions for ORS.\u00a0 In 2014, the Air Force selected a payload for the ORS-5 satellite, Space Situational Awareness, and funding is included in the NDAA to continue that program in FY15.\u00a0 Senator Heinrich has also sent a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James requesting funds in FY16.\r\nAir Force T-1A Aircraft Modernization/Replacement: Senator Heinrich worked with Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) to support language in the NDAA requiring a report on the options to modernize or replace the Air Force's aging fleet of 178 T-1A Jayhawks.\u00a0 Pilot training is critical for maintaining the most advanced and capable Air Force in the world, and Very Lightweight Jets have the potential to provide a state-of-the-art training platform while saving significant taxpayer dollars-all while creating good-paying manufacturing jobs in New Mexico. Senator Heinrich also sent a letter to Air Force this year in support of Very Lightweight Jets.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-to-serve-on-senate-armed-services-committee-", "Heinrich To Serve On Senate Armed Services Committee", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich To Serve On Senate Armed Services Committee \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tPosition will be instrumental in Senator\u2019s commitment to New Mexico\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement after receiving an assignment to serve on the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services. Senator Heinrich currently serves, and will continue to serve, on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources, Intelligence, and Joint Economic Committees.\r\n\"I look forward to serving on the Senate Armed Service Committee to ensure our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to keep our nation safe and to fulfill the promises we've made to those who serve.\u00a0 There are a number of evolving national security challenges that the United States and our allies must confront around the world, particularly in the Middle East, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. This committee will be instrumental in crafting the policies and the budget to confront those challenges.\r\n\"New Mexico is home to several military installations -- Kirtland Air Force Base, Holloman Air Force Base, Cannon Air Force Base, Fort Bliss, and White Sands Missile Range -- and two major national laboratories and the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant.\u00a0 New Mexico plays a pivotal role in our national security, and I will continue to be a strong advocate for our personnel and missions in my role on this committee.\"\r\nThe Senate Democratic Steering Committee today announced Democratic Committee memberships for the 114th Congress, which are subject to ratification by the caucus and the Senate when Congress convenes in January. For more information about the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services, visit: http://armed-services.senate.gov", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-announce-momentous-gains-for-new-mexico-with-passage-of-public-lands-package", "Udall, Heinrich Announce Momentous Gains For New Mexico With Passage Of Public Lands Package", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Announce Momentous Gains For New Mexico With Passage Of Public Lands Package\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) applauded the passage of a historic public lands package today. Several conservation and energy bills championed by the senators were included in the FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act. The end of year package passed the Senate by a vote of 89 to 11 and now goes to the President for his signature.  \"This is an exciting day for everyone who enjoys public lands and parks in New Mexico. With today's vote we are protecting some of the most beloved landscapes in New Mexico and establishing a program allowing the BLM to improve its operations in Carlsbad and Farmington,\" Udall said. \"Scores of New Mexicans deserve credit for helping us get these bills across the finish line -- from former Senator Bingaman, who first introduced them, to the diverse group of sportsmen, conservationists, local business people and others who have put years of hard work into them. Protecting these special and important places will increase tourism and create jobs in the surrounding communities while ensuring New Mexicans can enjoy them for generations to come.\" \"This is a historic moment and absolutely critical for jobs across the western United States and particularly in New Mexico. The public lands package will help grow our economy in the energy, tourism, sporting and recreation sectors.\u00a0 And new wilderness and National Park Service units will continue to make New Mexico a unmatched destination for world travelers as well as for the local families who have known for centuries that New Mexico really is the Land of Enchantment,\" Heinrich said. \"None of this would be possible were it not for years of effort and support from the local communities that helped craft these bills. Together, we have a responsibility to future generations to be good stewards of our shared culture and our natural world.\" Senator Heinrich, a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources delivered a floor speech yesterday on the importance of the public lands package.  Udall and Heinrich fought to include provisions in the FY2015 NDAA that would:  Designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County, New Mexico as wilderness. Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. The Columbine-Hondo is one of the most treasured places in the state and a key attraction for the local tourism economy. The Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Act (S. 776) would designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness. The bill would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River. VIDEO: Local residents discuss why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them. Transition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access. The Valles Caldera National Preserve Management Act (S. 285) would transfer management of the Preserve from the current Board of Trustees to the National Park Service (NPS) under a preserve model. Access for hunting and fishing would be mandated under the legislation. The proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, veterans organizations, business owners, and elected officials. Establish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act (S. 507) would establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park would conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world's first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society.  Extend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act (S. 2440) would extend a pilot program that has helped BLM balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management in New Mexico and other parts of the West. The pilot program has helped streamline operations in BLM field offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, New Mexico.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-barrasso-energy-bill-passes-senate-heads-to-president-and-146s-desk", "Udall, Barrasso Energy Bill Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Barrasso Energy Bill Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bipartisan bill included in NDAA will streamline oil and gas permitting on federal lands, strengthen environmental compliance\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n \n \n   WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and John Barrasso (R-WY) welcomed the Senate's passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included their bill to permanently reauthorize and reform a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management, in New Mexico, Wyoming and other parts of the West. The bipartisan BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act of 2014 (S. 2440), which passed the Senate by unanimous consent on September 16, 2014, was subsequently included as section 3021 of the NDAA. The Act extends a pilot program from the Energy Policy Act of 2005 which has helped the BLM reduce a backlog of oil and gas permit applications and streamline the permitting process in BLM offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, N.M., and Rawlins and Casper, WY, and other states.  The NDAA passed the House of Representatives on December 4, and following today's vote, is headed to the President's desk for his signature. \"The BLM permit processing bill is good for New Mexico, which relies on the revenue associated with oil and gas development to support our economy and create jobs,\" Udall said. \"By providing the resources for environmentally responsible development, this section will provide certainty to industry and the BLM, support our nation's energy independence, and promote a do it all, do it right' energy policy. Senator Barrasso, Senator Heinrich, and our bipartisan group of cosponsors have been great partners in moving these provisions forward, and I look forward to seeing the President sign this bill.\" \"Our local BLM offices play a vital role in making sure Wyoming remains a leading energy producing state. With today's vote, these offices will now have the resources they need to ensure oil and gas permits are processed in a timely manner,\" said Barrasso. \"Our bipartisan bill will help increase energy production on federal lands, create good-paying jobs and help support local economies throughout Wyoming and the West. I'd like to thank Senator Tom Udall and our bipartisan group of co-sponsors for working together to get this legislation across the finish line and on its way to the President.\" Authorization and funding for the pilot program is set to expire next year on September 30, 2015. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act permanently reauthorizes the pilot program and provides the Interior Secretary with greater flexibility to designate additional pilot offices based on shifting oil and gas production trends. In addition, the Act sets a $9,500 fee (indexed to inflation), to take effect in FY 2016, for applications for permits to drill (APDs) and mandates that at least 75 percent of revenues collected from the APD fees remain with the BLM offices in the states where the APDs were submitted. Finally, the Act prohibits the Secretary from raising the APD fee through a rulemaking. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act was cosponsored by Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.); Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.); John Hoeven (R-N.D.); Mike Enzi (R-WY); Mark Udall (D-CO); Dean Heller (R-NV); John Walsh (D-MT); James Inhofe (R-OK); Jon Tester (D-MT); Mike Lee (R-UT); Orrin Hatch (R-UT); and Michael Bennet (D-CO). The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act has been endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers, Independent Petroleum Association of America, American Petroleum Institute, Western Energy Alliance, Western Governors' Association, National Association of Counties, and numerous municipalities, trade associations, and oil and gas companies. In a July 29 hearing before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, the Western Energy Alliance, Concho Resources, Campbell County (Wyoming) Board of Commissioners, and Bureau of Land Management all testified in strong support of the legislation.\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-announce-momentous-gains-for-new-mexico-with-passage-of-public-lands-package", "Udall, Heinrich Announce Momentous Gains For New Mexico With Passage Of Public Lands Package", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Announce Momentous Gains For New Mexico With Passage Of Public Lands Package \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON -- U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich applauded the passage of a historic public lands package today. Several conservation and energy bills championed by the senators were included in the FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act. The end of year package passed the Senate by a vote of 89 to 11 and now goes to the President for his signature.\n\"This is an exciting day for everyone who enjoys public lands and parks in New Mexico. With today's vote we are protecting some of the most beloved landscapes in New Mexico and establishing a program allowing the BLM to improve its operations in Carlsbad and Farmington,\" Udall said. \"Scores of New Mexicans deserve credit for helping us get these bills across the finish line -- from former Senator Bingaman, who first introduced them, to the diverse group of sportsmen, conservationists, local business people and others who have put years of hard work into them. Protecting these special and important places will increase tourism and create jobs in the surrounding communities while ensuring New Mexicans can enjoy them for generations to come.\"\n\"This is a historic moment and absolutely critical for jobs across the western United States and particularly in New Mexico. The public lands package will help grow our economy in the energy, tourism, sporting and recreation sectors.  And new wilderness and National Park Service units will continue to make New Mexico a unmatched destination for world travelers as well as for the local families who have known for centuries that New Mexico really is the Land of Enchantment,\" Heinrich said. \"None of this would be possible were it not for years of effort and support from the local communities that helped craft these bills. Together, we have a responsibility to future generations to be good stewards of our shared culture and our natural world.\"\nSenator Heinrich, a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources delivered a floor speech yesterday on the importance of the public lands package.\nUdall and Heinrich fought to include provisions in the FY2015 NDAA that would:\nDesignate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County, New Mexico as wilderness. Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. The Columbine-Hondo is one of the most treasured places in the state and a key attraction for the local tourism economy. The Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Act (S. 776) would designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness. The bill would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River. VIDEO: Local residents discuss why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them.\nTransition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access. The Valles Caldera National Preserve Management Act (S. 285) would transfer management of the Preserve from the current Board of Trustees to the National Park Service (NPS) under a preserve model. Access for hunting and fishing would be mandated under the legislation. The proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, veterans organizations, business owners, and elected officials.\nEstablish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act (S. 507) would establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park would conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world's first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society.\nExtend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act (S. 2440) would extend a pilot program that has helped BLM balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management in New Mexico and other parts of the West. The pilot program has helped streamline operations in BLM field offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, New Mexico.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-to-join-senate-commerce-committee", "Udall to Join Senate Commerce Committee", "2014-12-12", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 12, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall to Join Senate Commerce Committee \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Assignment positions Udall to fight for issues critical to N.M. communities: Trade, broadband Internet, space, technology transfer, consumer safety\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall announced that beginning in January 2015 (the 114th Congress), he will return to the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Udall will also serve on the Senate Appropriations, Foreign Relations, Indian Affairs, and Rules committees. Udall previously served on the Commerce Committee from 2009-2012. \"Returning to the Commerce Committee, in combination with my other committee assignments, puts me in an exciting position to fight for issues that will help create jobs and build New Mexico's economy - from trade and transportation to technology and the rapidly evolving space industry. \"I believe New Mexico has all the building blocks for a strong high-tech sector, including our universities and research facilities, entrepreneurs and established companies that want to commercialize new technologies. Now is the time to encourage innovation and investments that will benefit our state and national economy for years to come.  \"We are also at a critical point in the expansion of broadband Internet, which is vital for small business, education and health care, particularly in rural communities. I intend to use my position to step up the fight to ensure every community in New Mexico has high-speed Internet access. \"Finally, since my days as New Mexico's Attorney General, I have worked to strengthen consumer protection. I'm proud of my contributions to keep drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel, improve youth sports safety, prevent cell phone bill shock,' and protect consumers from fraud, and the Commerce Committee gives me a position to fight to ensure New Mexicans have the tools they need to protect themselves and their families.\" The Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee has broad jurisdiction over federal agencies and laws that govern aviation,  communications, consumer affairs, highway and pipeline safety, railroads, science, and space policies.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1821", "Udall Votes for Authorization of Military Force Against ISIS [press_release]", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 11, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Votes for Authorization of Military Force Against ISIS \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Offers two bipartisan amendments to limit AUMF to 1 year and restrict war to Iraq and Syria\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined the full committee to debate and pass a resolution authorizing war against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) for three years. During the hearing, Udall offered two amendments with Senator Rand Paul (R-Kent.): to limit the scope of the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to just one year, and to ensure the use of force doesn't extend beyond Iraq and Syria without congressional approval. Both amendments were unsuccessful. Udall issued the following statement after the hearing: \"ISIS is a brutal terrorist group that poses a real threat to security in the region and to our nation, and the military action we have taken in Operation Inherent Resolve was necessary to prevent genocide and protect our interests and those of our allies in the Middle East. But I'm concerned that we're on the verge of a third Iraq War - this time against a terrorist organization, not a nation - with no limitations on time, geographic scope or cost. \"The Constitution gives Congress the responsibility to declare war, and we should take it seriously. We should revisit this authorization every year, to exercise real oversight and to try to do everything we can to make sure there aren't unintended consequences. While I'm disappointed my amendments weren't successful, I'm pleased the Senate Foreign Relations Committee honored its responsibility with today's vote. The next step should be a debate by the full Congress, and we should stay in session as long as it takes to do our constitutional duty and debate and pass an AUMF.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-delivers-floor-speech-on-importance-of-public-lands-package", "Heinrich Delivers Floor Speech On Importance Of Public Lands Package", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Delivers Floor Speech On Importance Of Public Lands Package\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 11, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) delivered a Senate floor speech today to highlight key conservation and energy bills he helped secure in the FY 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\u00a0\r\n\"We stand on the cusp of passing one of the most significant pieces of public land legislation since 2009,\" said Sen. Heinrich in his remarks. \"None of this would be possible were it not for years of effort and support from the local communities that helped craft these bills.\u00a0 Thanks to their work, New Mexico's critical public land based economic engine will continue to grow in the energy, tourism, sporting and recreation sectors.\" Below are Senator Heinrich's remarks as prepared for delivery: Mr. President, we stand on the cusp of passing one of the most significant pieces of public land legislation since 2009. I stand here to speak on behalf of this well-balanced package, which is absolutely critical for jobs across the western United States and particularly in my home state of New Mexico. None of this would be possible were it not for years of effort and support from the local communities that helped craft these bills.  Thanks to their work, New Mexico's critical public land based economic engine will continue to grow in the energy, tourism, sporting and recreation sectors.\u00a0 And new wilderness and National Park Service units will continue to make New Mexico a unmatched destination for world travelers as well as for the local families that have known for centuries that New Mexico really is the Land of Enchantment. Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the area known as Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. Columbine-Hondo is cherished by all who know it and is a key attraction for the local tourism and outdoor recreation economy.\u00a0 When I was a young outfitter guide and the Executive Director of the Cottonwood Gulch Foundation, Columbine Hondo was one of the spectacular destinations where our students backpacked, slept under the stars, and learned to navigate in the backcountry. This area has some of the best elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep habitat in New Mexico.\u00a0 And people come from across the nation to experience a true wilderness elk hunt in its aspen and fir forests.\u00a0 Fisherman will tell you that it is also home to some of the last, best habitat for our native Rio Grande cutthroat trout, which is coincidentally New Mexico's state fish. Columbine Hondo is home to the headwaters of the Red River and the Rio Hondo, both major tributaries of the Rio Grande, and the snowmelt from Lobo Peak and Gold Hill provide critical irrigation water to local acequia associations who carry on age-old agricultural traditions. For millennia, these mountains, rivers, and wildlife have supported New Mexico's traditional communities.\u00a0 The first evidence of human habitation here stretches back 11,000 years, and nearby Taos Pueblo has been continuously inhabited for more than a thousand years. Spanish settlers first came to the area in the 16th Century, and Hispanic families have relied on these mountains for their way of life ever since.   \u2003   Today, Columbine-Hondo is a central attraction for visitors to Taos County, where outdoor recreation and tourism drive the local economy and contribute to a 68,000 job strong public land recreation industry in our state. In addition to finally designating Columbine Hondo as wilderness, this package would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River. It has broad community support, including from the Taos Pueblo, local government leaders, hunters, fishermen, business owners, land grant heirs, ranchers, acequia parcientes, conservationists, mountain bikers, veterans, and many, many more. In October, I joined the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Coalition, regional stakeholders, and local officials for a hike in the area to highlight conservation and water initiatives. Local residents discussed why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them. Esther Garcia, an acequia commissioner and the former mayor of Questa expressed her support well when she said... \"Columbine Hondo is very important to all of us.\u00a0 To preserve this beautiful wilderness area, we preserve our hunting, our pi\u00f1on picking, our herb gathering.\"   I want to thank all the residents of Taos County who have worked hard for decades to make this wilderness area a reality. Also included in this public lands package, is a provision to transition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access. This proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, business owners, and elected officials and is supported by local chambers of commerce. Together they decided that a National Preserve managed by the Park Service, with a mandate for hunting and fishing to remain central to the management of the area, was the best way to ensure expanded public access while preserving this incredible landscape for future generations. The Valles Caldera is a crater created by a collapsed super-volcano, and is made up of cinder cones scattered throughout a deep grassy valley.  The Caldera is home to crystal clear trout streams and some of the best elk habitat in the state.  Since then, the Preserve has been managed by a Board of Trustees charged with generating enough revenue from user fees and other sources to make the Preserve financially self-sustaining. This has led to drastically limited public access with relatively high entrance and permit fees, locking many New Mexicans out of this public land. By shifting to Park Service management, we can open the Valles Caldera to the public while conserving the one-of-a-kind resources found there.  As someone who has been lucky enough to draw an elk tag in the Caldera, expanding hunting opportunities for the public is one of the primary reasons I'm supporting this proposal.\u00a0    \u2003   The preserve model ensures that hunting and fishing remain central activities for the public to enjoy, and NPS management will help balance expanded public access with conserving the natural and cultural resources found in the area.\u00a0  Park Service management will also help bring more visitors and will raise the national profile of the preserve for visitors from outside of New Mexico.  The increase in visitors at the Preserve is expected to bring more than 200 jobs and $8 million in wages to the communities in the region.  That is great news for communities like Los Alamos, Espa\u00f1ola, and Jemez Springs.  We've seen elsewhere how protecting public lands spurs economic development. According to Headwaters Economics, rural counties with protected federal lands, like national parks, saw a 345 percent increase in jobs over the last 40 years, whereas rural counties without protected lands saw jobs increase by only 83 percent over the same period. I want to thank the local community and elected officials who have worked for decades to put this proposal together, as well as Senator Tom Udall and former Senator Jeff Bingaman for their leadership on this issue.\u00a0  We all stand on the shoulders of giants in this effort, as it was Senator Clinton P. Anderson of New Mexico who first proposed National Park Service management of the Valles Caldera in the early 1960s.\u00a0    \u2003   Additionally, as the son of a Navy sailor who saw several of the early nuclear tests I am especially pleased to see that the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act, introduced by Senator Maria Cantwell is also included.\u00a0 It will establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. Los Alamos, New Mexico has made invaluable contributions to our nation's nuclear history.   \u2003   These parks will conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world's first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society.  And finally, I'd like to mention a provision in this package that will benefit New Mexico's energy economy. It is a bill which I co-sponsored, but that was authored and championed by my colleague Senator Tom Udall to ensure that the Bureau of Land Management has the staff it needs to streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening the review system that helps meet important environmental and safety standards.   \u2003   Thousands of jobs and a sizable portion of our state's economy are supported by New Mexico's oil and gas industry. Increasing cooperation among federal agencies and business is an important way to boost job creation and expand domestic energy production. Like other Americans who value our shared lands as assets to be utilized, enjoyed and passed on to future generations, these are all things worth fighting for.   \u2003   I'm committed to carry on my state's rich conservation history and this legislation makes an enormous contribution to that ever-evolving story. Mr. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-votes-for-authorization-of-military-force-against-isis", "Udall Votes for Authorization of Military Force Against ISIS", "2014-12-11", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 11, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Votes for Authorization of Military Force Against ISIS \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Offers two bipartisan amendments to limit AUMF to 1 year and restrict war to Iraq and Syria\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined the full committee to debate and pass a resolution authorizing war against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) for three years. During the hearing, Udall offered two amendments with Senator Rand Paul (R-Kent.): to limit the scope of the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to just one year, and to ensure the use of force doesn't extend beyond Iraq and Syria without congressional approval. Both amendments were unsuccessful. Udall issued the following statement after the hearing: \"ISIS is a brutal terrorist group that poses a real threat to security in the region and to our nation, and the military action we have taken in Operation Inherent Resolve was necessary to prevent genocide and protect our interests and those of our allies in the Middle East. But I'm concerned that we're on the verge of a third Iraq War - this time against a terrorist organization, not a nation - with no limitations on time, geographic scope or cost. \"The Constitution gives Congress the responsibility to declare war, and we should take it seriously. We should revisit this authorization every year, to exercise real oversight and to try to do everything we can to make sure there aren't unintended consequences. While I'm disappointed my amendments weren't successful, I'm pleased the Senate Foreign Relations Committee honored its responsibility with today's vote. The next step should be a debate by the full Congress, and we should stay in session as long as it takes to do our constitutional duty and debate and pass an AUMF.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1820", "Udall Urges Congress to Do its Work, Pass Bill to Fund Important Programs for N.M., Avoid Shutdown [press_release]", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 10, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Urges Congress to Do its Work, Pass Bill to Fund Important Programs for N.M., Avoid Shutdown \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Appropriations bill funds PILT, lab programs including B61, N.M. military bases, WIPP recovery, technology transfer, water projects and other priorities\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, welcomed the release of a so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which includes critical funding for New Mexico and keeps the government running through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year. The bill funds many New Mexico priorities that Udall has fought for, such as the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which helps pay for local services New Mexicans rely on, including law enforcement, schools, roads and other needs. The bill also provides additional funding to continue cleanup from the radiation leak at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), as well as continued work on the B61 Life Extension Project (LEP) at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs; construction and projects at New Mexico's Air Force bases; technology transfer to help stimulate job growth; rural N.M. water projects; and public lands programs. Because a temporary spending measure expires on Thursday, the omnibus bill must be approved by the House and Senate this week or funding must be temporarily extended. While the bill is vital for New Mexico communities, which depend on funding for PILT, the labs and bases, public lands agencies and many other programs, the omnibus also includes provisions tacked on at the last minute, which chip away at campaign finance reforms and Wall Street reforms intended to prevent a financial collapse like that in 2008. Udall said he is continuing to review the last-minute additions to the bill before deciding how to vote, and he decried the so-called \"riders\" as well as threats by lawmakers to shut down the government over disagreements with the president's executive action on immigration. \"This bill includes funding for programs that I fought for - to sustain jobs at New Mexico's labs and bases, to continue cleanup from the radiation release at WIPP, and ensure New Mexico counties have funding they count on for schools, public safety, roads and so many other daily services,\" Udall said. \"I'm extremely disappointed that Congress has become so broken that it would hold vital regular funding hostage in order to pass gimmicks that unleash special interest spending to influence political campaigns and that weaken laws protecting our financial system.\" \"One of Congress's most important duties is to direct federal government spending, but it has now been several years since we passed regular spending bills,\" Udall continued. \"There was a time when an omnibus appropriations bill would have been a sign of a major breakdown. I will continue to do everything I can as a member of the Appropriations Committee to get Congress back to working for New Mexico and the American people. I encourage my colleagues to work together - our economic strength and national security depend on it.\"\nNew Mexico funding in the bill includes:\nPILT - with $70 million included in a defense bill, which is also before Congress this week, and $372 million in the omnibus, the PILT program is funded at $442 million. The total will be divided according to a formula determined by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Last year, New Mexico counties received $37 million.\n  WIPP, LOS ALAMOS AND SANDIA NATIONAL LABS-WIPP: The bill provides $320 million for WIPP, including the administration's original funding request of $220 million. The additional $100 million is designated for cleanup from the radiological accident and equals the estimate DOE has provided for FY15 recovery activities at WIPP.\n-B61 Life Extension Project: $643 million. Both Los Alamos and Sandia national labs are instrumental in carrying out this program, which maintains our nation's nuclear weapons stockpile while allowing for the eventual elimination of the nation's largest warhead, the B83. The bill fully funds the B61 LEP for FY15 and supports recent job increases at Sandia. The funding is a direct result of Udall's successful fight against an attempt in FY14 to cut the program.\n-LANL Cleanup: $185 million\n-LANL Recapitalization: $22.7 million for 10 projects plus $23 million for TA-55 Reinvestment Project Phase II and III LANL\n-Sandia National Laboratory Recapitalization: $30.8 million for seven projects.\n-Technology Transfer: $4.8 million for technology transfer at the Department of Defense, $2.1 million above the president's request, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program, requested by Senator Udall. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators.\n  MILITARY/DOD -Cannon Air Force Base: $23.3 million for a Squadron Operations Facility\n-Kirtland Air Force Base High Energy Laser: $14 million for high energy laser research initiatives, $1.0 million more than the president's request for work that will partially be done at KAFB.\n-Kirtland Air Force Base Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Office: $20 million. The ORS Office is responsible for responsive space capabilities that enable rapid deployment of military resources all around the world. Senator Udall secured this funding, not included in the president's request, to complete the development, launch, and operations of the ORS mission and to support the integration of ORS approaches across the space capabilities in the Air Force. -DOD Starbase Funding: $25 million increase in funding for STARBASE, a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education program for fifth graders. Senator Udall succeeded in pushing for this civilian program that provides 25 hours of engaging STEM instruction. The technology-rich military environment allows students to experience first-hand \"real-world\" application of STEM skills. The DoD STARBASE Program creates an unequaled bridge between the U.S. Military and STEM education with local school students that is achieved through strong civilian/military leadership involvement, state of the art curriculum and technology, nation-wide program standardization, a complete understanding of military culture, and assured access to military installations.\n  DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)  The legislation includes a total of $159.1 billion, $1.8 billion above the enacted fiscal year 2014 level.  -VA Medical Services: $45.2 billion - providing care and treatment for approximately 6.7 million veterans. This includes: $7.2 billion in mental health care services; $133 million in suicide prevention activities; $229 million for traumatic brain injury treatment; $7.4 billion in homeless veterans treatment, services, housing, and job training; and $250 million in rural health initiatives.\n-Rural health: $209 million to help address new costs related to the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 including hiring medical staff, expanding facility capacity, and allowing rural veterans to seek care outside the VA system.\n-Oversight: To help address issues related to the \"wait list\" scandal at the VA in New Mexico and elsewhere, Senator Udall pushed for additional funding for the VA Office of Inspector General. The agreement increases funding by $5 million over the fiscal year 2014 level to provide the resources necessary to continue the Office's audits of hospital appointment scheduling and lapses in patient care. The legislation also includes language directing the VA Office of the Medical Inspector to report on problems or deficiencies in the implementation of its recommendations, and on any violations of law by VA employees.\n-Advance Funding for Veterans Medical Programs: $58.7 billion in advance fiscal year 2016 funding for the VA. This funding will provide for medical services, medical support and compliance, and medical facilities, and ensure that our veterans have continued, full access to their medical care.\n  WATER PROJECTS-Navajo-Gallup Project: The bill provides $81 million for the construction of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project and the historic 2010 Navajo Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The project will supply water to the eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the city of Gallup, serving the future water needs of approximately 250,000 people.\nOther Water Settlements  -Aamodt: $3 million  -Taos Pueblo: $4 million\n-Middle Rio Grande: The bill includes a provision encouraging development and implementation of the Water Acquisition Program along the Middle Rio Grande and San Juan Chama Projects and the Physical Habitat Restoration and Management efforts along the San Acacia Reach consistent with fiscal year 2014 activities.\n  BUREAU OF RECLAMATION-Westwide Drought Response: $50 million for drought response in Western states.\n-Reauthorization of Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991 (a provision from Udall's drought bill, the New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014)\n-Secure Water Act: The bill increases the authorization from $200 million to $300 million (also a provision from Udall's New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014).\n-Rural Water Projects: $31 million in discretionary funds for rural water projects, which may be used to fund projects like the Eastern New Mexico-Ute Pipeline. The bill also includes specific funding for the following Bureau of Reclamation projects in New Mexico:  -Carlsbad Project: $4,139,000  -Middle Rio Grande Project: $22,735,000  -Rio Grande Project: $5,406,000  -Rio Grande Pueblos Project: $650,000  -Tucumcari Project: $34,000  -Navajo Indian Irrigation Project: $3.4 million\n  ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS  -Tribal Partnership Program: $2.5M  -Espanola Valley, Rio Grande & Tributaries: $300,000  -Rio Grande Basin, NM, CO, and TX (Sec. 729): $300,000  -Middle Rio Grande Flood Protection, Bernalillo to Belen: $276,000  -Abiquiu Dam: $2,794,000  -Cochiti Lake: $3,587,000  -Conchas Lake: $2,794,000  -Galisteo Dam: $1,150,000  -Inspection of Completed Environmental Projects: $30,000  -Inspection of Completed Works: $654,000  -Jemez Canyon Dam: $1,392,000  -Rio Grande Endangered Species Collaborative Program: $2,492,000  -Santa Rosa Dam and Lake: $1,594,000  -Scheduling Reservoir Operations: $330,000  -Two Rivers Dam: $797,000  -Upper Rio Grande Water Operations Model Study: $1,289,000\n  WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION AND PREVENTION  -Hazardous fuels reduction activities: $526 million total nationwide\n-Wildfire suppression: $1.394 billion total for the Forest Service and DOI to respond to forest fires.\n-Aircraft acquisition to enhance firefighting capacity, effectiveness: $65 million\n-Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Fund: $40 million for ecological restoration treatments of forests.  This helps prevent fires and make healthy watersheds. Two projects in New Mexico are ongoing (Zuni Mountain and Jemez Mountains)\n  FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT-Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB): $7.5 million for the PCLOB to help ensure that federal laws and policies related to terrorism appropriately consider privacy and civil liberties. These resources, $4.4 million more than the fiscal year 2014 enacted level, will enable the PCLOB to pursue its mission without delay. -10 temporary federal judgeships extended for one year, including one in New Mexico. -Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP): $375 million, $8 million above the fiscal year 2014 enacted level. This includes $245 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program and $93.5 million for the Drug-Free Communities program.\n-State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement: $2.3 billion to support state and local law enforcement with the tools they need to fight violent crime and gangs. This amount is $55 million more than the fiscal year 2014 level and includes funding for key grant programs, such as $376 million for Byrne Justice Assistance Grants, $180 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) hiring grants, $430 million for Violence Against Women Act programs and $252 million for juvenile justice and mentoring grants. -Heroin Crisis: $7 million to fund a new program within the COPS Office for anti-heroin task forces. Competitive grants will be awarded for drug enforcement, including investigations and activities related to the distribution of heroin or unlawful diversion and distribution of prescription opioids. The agreement calls on the DOJ to take the lead in convening experts in the law enforcement, medical, public health and educational fields to develop a comprehensive government-wide solution for this crisis. The bill also provides funding for OJP grant programs available to state and local governments for residential drug treatment ($10 million), prescription drug monitoring ($11 million), and drug courts ($41 million). -Funding for 35 new Immigration Judge Teams allowing Executive Office for Immigration Review to adjudicate up to 39,000 more cases annually.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-urges-congress-to-do-its-work-pass-bill-to-fund-important-programs-for-nm-avoid-shutdown", "Udall Urges Congress to Do its Work, Pass Bill to Fund Important Programs for N.M., Avoid Shutdown", "2014-12-10", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 10, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Urges Congress to Do its Work, Pass Bill to Fund Important Programs for N.M., Avoid Shutdown \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Appropriations bill funds PILT, lab programs including B61, N.M. military bases, WIPP recovery, technology transfer, water projects and other priorities\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, welcomed the release of a so-called \"omnibus\" appropriations bill, which includes critical funding for New Mexico and keeps the government running through September 2015, the end of the fiscal year. The bill funds many New Mexico priorities that Udall has fought for, such as the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which helps pay for local services New Mexicans rely on, including law enforcement, schools, roads and other needs. The bill also provides additional funding to continue cleanup from the radiation leak at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), as well as continued work on the B61 Life Extension Project (LEP) at Los Alamos and Sandia national labs; construction and projects at New Mexico's Air Force bases; technology transfer to help stimulate job growth; rural N.M. water projects; and public lands programs. Because a temporary spending measure expires on Thursday, the omnibus bill must be approved by the House and Senate this week or funding must be temporarily extended. While the bill is vital for New Mexico communities, which depend on funding for PILT, the labs and bases, public lands agencies and many other programs, the omnibus also includes provisions tacked on at the last minute, which chip away at campaign finance reforms and Wall Street reforms intended to prevent a financial collapse like that in 2008. Udall said he is continuing to review the last-minute additions to the bill before deciding how to vote, and he decried the so-called \"riders\" as well as threats by lawmakers to shut down the government over disagreements with the president's executive action on immigration. \"This bill includes funding for programs that I fought for - to sustain jobs at New Mexico's labs and bases, to continue cleanup from the radiation release at WIPP, and ensure New Mexico counties have funding they count on for schools, public safety, roads and so many other daily services,\" Udall said. \"I'm extremely disappointed that Congress has become so broken that it would hold vital regular funding hostage in order to pass gimmicks that unleash special interest spending to influence political campaigns and that weaken laws protecting our financial system.\" \"One of Congress's most important duties is to direct federal government spending, but it has now been several years since we passed regular spending bills,\" Udall continued. \"There was a time when an omnibus appropriations bill would have been a sign of a major breakdown. I will continue to do everything I can as a member of the Appropriations Committee to get Congress back to working for New Mexico and the American people. I encourage my colleagues to work together - our economic strength and national security depend on it.\"\nNew Mexico funding in the bill includes:\nPILT - with $70 million included in a defense bill, which is also before Congress this week, and $372 million in the omnibus, the PILT program is funded at $442 million. The total will be divided according to a formula determined by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Last year, New Mexico counties received $37 million.\n  WIPP, LOS ALAMOS AND SANDIA NATIONAL LABS-WIPP: The bill provides $320 million for WIPP, including the administration's original funding request of $220 million. The additional $100 million is designated for cleanup from the radiological accident and equals the estimate DOE has provided for FY15 recovery activities at WIPP.\n-B61 Life Extension Project: $643 million. Both Los Alamos and Sandia national labs are instrumental in carrying out this program, which maintains our nation's nuclear weapons stockpile while allowing for the eventual elimination of the nation's largest warhead, the B83. The bill fully funds the B61 LEP for FY15 and supports recent job increases at Sandia. The funding is a direct result of Udall's successful fight against an attempt in FY14 to cut the program.\n-LANL Cleanup: $185 million\n-LANL Recapitalization: $22.7 million for 10 projects plus $23 million for TA-55 Reinvestment Project Phase II and III LANL\n-Sandia National Laboratory Recapitalization: $30.8 million for seven projects.\n-Technology Transfer: $4.8 million for technology transfer at the Department of Defense, $2.1 million above the president's request, plus an additional $10 million for a regionally focused technology transfer innovation pilot program, requested by Senator Udall. The pilot will facilitate public-private ventures between the Department of Defense research and development centers and regionally focused technology incubators.\n  MILITARY/DOD -Cannon Air Force Base: $23.3 million for a Squadron Operations Facility\n-Kirtland Air Force Base High Energy Laser: $14 million for high energy laser research initiatives, $1.0 million more than the president's request for work that will partially be done at KAFB.\n-Kirtland Air Force Base Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) Office: $20 million. The ORS Office is responsible for responsive space capabilities that enable rapid deployment of military resources all around the world. Senator Udall secured this funding, not included in the president's request, to complete the development, launch, and operations of the ORS mission and to support the integration of ORS approaches across the space capabilities in the Air Force. -DOD Starbase Funding: $25 million increase in funding for STARBASE, a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education program for fifth graders. Senator Udall succeeded in pushing for this civilian program that provides 25 hours of engaging STEM instruction. The technology-rich military environment allows students to experience first-hand \"real-world\" application of STEM skills. The DoD STARBASE Program creates an unequaled bridge between the U.S. Military and STEM education with local school students that is achieved through strong civilian/military leadership involvement, state of the art curriculum and technology, nation-wide program standardization, a complete understanding of military culture, and assured access to military installations.\n  DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)  The legislation includes a total of $159.1 billion, $1.8 billion above the enacted fiscal year 2014 level.  -VA Medical Services: $45.2 billion - providing care and treatment for approximately 6.7 million veterans. This includes: $7.2 billion in mental health care services; $133 million in suicide prevention activities; $229 million for traumatic brain injury treatment; $7.4 billion in homeless veterans treatment, services, housing, and job training; and $250 million in rural health initiatives.\n-Rural health: $209 million to help address new costs related to the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 including hiring medical staff, expanding facility capacity, and allowing rural veterans to seek care outside the VA system.\n-Oversight: To help address issues related to the \"wait list\" scandal at the VA in New Mexico and elsewhere, Senator Udall pushed for additional funding for the VA Office of Inspector General. The agreement increases funding by $5 million over the fiscal year 2014 level to provide the resources necessary to continue the Office's audits of hospital appointment scheduling and lapses in patient care. The legislation also includes language directing the VA Office of the Medical Inspector to report on problems or deficiencies in the implementation of its recommendations, and on any violations of law by VA employees.\n-Advance Funding for Veterans Medical Programs: $58.7 billion in advance fiscal year 2016 funding for the VA. This funding will provide for medical services, medical support and compliance, and medical facilities, and ensure that our veterans have continued, full access to their medical care.\n  WATER PROJECTS-Navajo-Gallup Project: The bill provides $81 million for the construction of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project and the historic 2010 Navajo Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement. The project will supply water to the eastern portion of the Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the city of Gallup, serving the future water needs of approximately 250,000 people.\nOther Water Settlements  -Aamodt: $3 million  -Taos Pueblo: $4 million\n-Middle Rio Grande: The bill includes a provision encouraging development and implementation of the Water Acquisition Program along the Middle Rio Grande and San Juan Chama Projects and the Physical Habitat Restoration and Management efforts along the San Acacia Reach consistent with fiscal year 2014 activities.\n  BUREAU OF RECLAMATION-Westwide Drought Response: $50 million for drought response in Western states.\n-Reauthorization of Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991 (a provision from Udall's drought bill, the New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014)\n-Secure Water Act: The bill increases the authorization from $200 million to $300 million (also a provision from Udall's New Mexico Drought Relief Act of 2014).\n-Rural Water Projects: $31 million in discretionary funds for rural water projects, which may be used to fund projects like the Eastern New Mexico-Ute Pipeline. The bill also includes specific funding for the following Bureau of Reclamation projects in New Mexico:  -Carlsbad Project: $4,139,000  -Middle Rio Grande Project: $22,735,000  -Rio Grande Project: $5,406,000  -Rio Grande Pueblos Project: $650,000  -Tucumcari Project: $34,000  -Navajo Indian Irrigation Project: $3.4 million\n  ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS  -Tribal Partnership Program: $2.5M  -Espanola Valley, Rio Grande & Tributaries: $300,000  -Rio Grande Basin, NM, CO, and TX (Sec. 729): $300,000  -Middle Rio Grande Flood Protection, Bernalillo to Belen: $276,000  -Abiquiu Dam: $2,794,000  -Cochiti Lake: $3,587,000  -Conchas Lake: $2,794,000  -Galisteo Dam: $1,150,000  -Inspection of Completed Environmental Projects: $30,000  -Inspection of Completed Works: $654,000  -Jemez Canyon Dam: $1,392,000  -Rio Grande Endangered Species Collaborative Program: $2,492,000  -Santa Rosa Dam and Lake: $1,594,000  -Scheduling Reservoir Operations: $330,000  -Two Rivers Dam: $797,000  -Upper Rio Grande Water Operations Model Study: $1,289,000\n  WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION AND PREVENTION  -Hazardous fuels reduction activities: $526 million total nationwide\n-Wildfire suppression: $1.394 billion total for the Forest Service and DOI to respond to forest fires.\n-Aircraft acquisition to enhance firefighting capacity, effectiveness: $65 million\n-Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Fund: $40 million for ecological restoration treatments of forests.  This helps prevent fires and make healthy watersheds. Two projects in New Mexico are ongoing (Zuni Mountain and Jemez Mountains)\n  FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT-Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB): $7.5 million for the PCLOB to help ensure that federal laws and policies related to terrorism appropriately consider privacy and civil liberties. These resources, $4.4 million more than the fiscal year 2014 enacted level, will enable the PCLOB to pursue its mission without delay. -10 temporary federal judgeships extended for one year, including one in New Mexico. -Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP): $375 million, $8 million above the fiscal year 2014 enacted level. This includes $245 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program and $93.5 million for the Drug-Free Communities program.\n-State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement: $2.3 billion to support state and local law enforcement with the tools they need to fight violent crime and gangs. This amount is $55 million more than the fiscal year 2014 level and includes funding for key grant programs, such as $376 million for Byrne Justice Assistance Grants, $180 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) hiring grants, $430 million for Violence Against Women Act programs and $252 million for juvenile justice and mentoring grants. -Heroin Crisis: $7 million to fund a new program within the COPS Office for anti-heroin task forces. Competitive grants will be awarded for drug enforcement, including investigations and activities related to the distribution of heroin or unlawful diversion and distribution of prescription opioids. The agreement calls on the DOJ to take the lead in convening experts in the law enforcement, medical, public health and educational fields to develop a comprehensive government-wide solution for this crisis. The bill also provides funding for OJP grant programs available to state and local governments for residential drug treatment ($10 million), prescription drug monitoring ($11 million), and drug courts ($41 million). -Funding for 35 new Immigration Judge Teams allowing Executive Office for Immigration Review to adjudicate up to 39,000 more cases annually.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1816", "Udall Statement on Senate Intelligence Committee Report on CIA Interrogation Practices [press_release]", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Senate Intelligence Committee Report on CIA Interrogation Practices \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the Senate Intelligence Committee's review of the Central Intelligence Agency's detention and interrogation program. A copy of the report is available HERE. \"The Senate investigators' report documents the use of brutal interrogation techniques that I believe constitute torture and violate U.S. and international law. In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, we compromised the values that make our nation great. This report underscores that torture is not only brutal and inhumane, it so often produces unreliable intelligence that it is also ineffective.\n\"The release of today's report has been controversial, but it's an important step forward in addressing a stain on our nation's history. While we can understand the intelligence community's desire to prevent another attack, a civilized nation should never resort to torture in the name of security. My hope is that this report informs future generations of Americans and ensures that we never undertake programs like this again.\"\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1818", "Udall, Merkley Urge McConnell to Continue Rules Reform to Fix Broken Senate [press_release]", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Merkley Urge McConnell to Continue Rules Reform to Fix Broken Senate \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - In a letter delivered today to incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) announced that they will continue their effort to reform the Senate rules on the first day of the next legislative session, and they urged McConnell to allow debate and support efforts to restore a healthy legislative process. Since joining the Senate in 2009, Udall and Merkley have led the effort to increase transparency, restore accountability and foster debate in an institution where obstruction and dysfunction have pushed aside progress for the American people. \"It is our hope that you will allow the Senate to debate these rules changes, as well as any others offered by our colleagues, and that each can receive an up or down vote,\" Udall and Merkley wrote to McConnell. \"Many members on both sides recognize the recent dysfunction in the Senate and we believe that a full and open rules debate at the start of the new Congress is a necessary step towards restoring a healthy legislative process.\" In 2011 and 2013, Udall, Merkley, and Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced a comprehensive package of rules reforms to address the systematic abuse of the filibuster and other procedural tactics that prevent the Senate from doing its work. Republicans objected to the proposed reforms, but the growing support for the effort led to a \"gentlemen's agreement\" in January 2013 between Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to enact more moderate reforms. That agreement quickly broke down as Republicans continued to regularly filibuster nominees. In November 2013, Reid decided to use the so-called \"nuclear option\" -- with the support of Udall and Merkley - forcing a Senate vote to change the rules and end filibusters on presidential executive and judicial nominations, except to the U.S. Supreme Court.   Ending filibusters on many nominations has relieved the backlog of executive and judicial nominations. But significant reform is still needed, such as a \"talking filibuster, which would require senators to voice their opposition to legislation in person on the Senate floor.  In their letter, Udall and Merkley encouraged McConnell to use the \"Constitutional Option\" --  a procedural mechanism that allows a simple majority to end debate on rules changes at the beginning of a new Congress - \"to allow substantive debate on potential rules reforms, followed by majority votes on each proposal\" when Congress returns in January. The Constitutional Option has been used numerous times since the cloture provision was adopted in 1917; the last being in 1975 when it was the catalyst for amending the filibuster rule to its current form. \"We are greatly encouraged by reports that the next majority is leaning towards retaining the most recent change lowering the cloture threshold for most nominees,\" the senators wrote. \"This change has allowed critical executive and judicial vacancies to be filled in a more timely fashion in line with long standing Senate traditions, as well as restored the constitutional majority standard for advice and consent.\"  \"The unprecedented use of the filibuster, filling the amendment tree, and other procedural tactics, by both parties, has prevented the Senate from getting its work done,\" Udall and Merkley concluded. \"The Senate needs to return to its historical practice of operating as a deliberative yet majoritarian body, when filibusters were rare and bipartisanship was the norm. We believe the proposed rules changes in our resolution provide common sense reforms that will restore the best traditions of the Senate and allow it to conduct the business that the American people expect.\" The full text of the letter is available below and HERE: The Honorable Mitch McConnell  Minority Leader  United States Senate  Washington, DC 20510 Dear Leader McConnell: As you know, we introduced resolutions on the first days of the 112th and 113th Congresses to reform the Senate rules and allow the body to function as our founders intended. At the time, many Republicans derided these efforts as a \"power grab\" by members of the majority party. We write today to notify you that we will introduce the reform proposals again at the beginning of the 114th Congress, when we are in the minority. It is our hope that you will allow the Senate to debate these rules changes, as well as any others offered by our colleagues, and that each can receive an up or down vote.  Many members on both sides recognize the recent dysfunction in the Senate and we believe that a full and open rules debate at the start of the new Congress is a necessary step towards restoring a healthy legislative process. We are greatly encouraged by reports that the next majority is leaning towards retaining the most recent change lowering the cloture threshold for most nominees. This change has allowed critical executive and judicial vacancies to be filled in a more timely fashion in line with long standing Senate traditions, as well as restored the constitutional majority standard for advice and consent.  While there has been much discussion of how the new majority will approach the question of changes to Senate procedures, one of the most critical changes you could make would be to establish a standard process for considering any proposals to amend the Senate's rules at the beginning of each Congress. Over the years, Senators of both parties have stated that Article I, Section 5 of the Constitution gives the Senate the right to adopt and amend its rules at the beginning of a new Congress by a simple majority vote - what has become known as the Constitutional Option. It has been used numerous times since the cloture provision was adopted in 1917, and has led to significant reforms such as the amending the filibuster rule to the three-fifths threshold in 1975. We encourage you to use the Constitutional Option at the beginning of the 114th Congress to allow substantive debate on potential rules reforms, followed by majority votes on each proposal. We believe this will lead to the adoption of sensible changes to the rules that have a lasting impact on the body. For example, Senate rules could be improved to restore a healthier and more open floor amendment process, which you have made many recent public commitments to provide, and to institute a \"talking filibuster\" that encourages that the filibuster return to being a tool that is used sparingly. We believe rules reform is a preferable option over \"gentlemen's agreements\" by leadership or bipartisan coalitions of members, such as the \"Gang of 14\" in the 109th Congress. While these arrangements may have short-term benefits, they often deteriorate and lead to greater mistrust and dysfunction, as we've seen in this Congress.  The unprecedented use of the filibuster, filling the amendment tree, and other procedural tactics, by both parties, has prevented the Senate from getting its work done. The Senate needs to return to its historical practice of operating as a deliberative yet majoritarian body, when filibusters were rare and bipartisanship was the norm. We believe the proposed rules changes in our resolution provide common sense reforms that will restore the best traditions of the Senate and allow it to conduct the business that the American people expect.  We look forward to working with you on further Senate rules reforms in the 114th Congress. Sincerely, Tom Udall  United States Senator Jeff Merkley  United States Senator", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1819", "Udall Presses Kerry on Strategy, Authority for War Against ISIS [press_release]", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Presses Kerry on Strategy, Authority for War Against ISIS \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t At Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, expresses skepticism, frustration that White House has not worked with Congress on AUMF\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, attended a hearing on the war with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria to share his grave concerns about the United States entering a third war in the region.  Udall expressed his frustration with the administration's reluctance to work with Congress to define the scope of and authorization for its military engagement against ISIS.  Udall questioned Secretary of State John Kerry about the continuing role Congress should play in granting authority for military operations. And he pressed Kerry for answers about how the administration plans to pay for the war, highlighting that recent military engagements in the region have been \"paid on the government credit card.\"\nUdall continues to push for Congress to live up to its constitutional responsibility to define the president's authority in engaging with ISIS, and believes it is critical to repeal the broad authorizations used to justify our current military involvement against ISIS, Operation Inherent Resolve. Finally, Udall said he will push for a one-year limit to this authority, and that Congress must have a say in extending the engagement or broadening the scope of U.S. military action.\nUdall issued the following statement:\n \n\"To be frank, I share in the disappointment expressed by many of my colleagues-that it took this long...for the administration to engage with us to develop a new Authorization for the Use of Military Force. I agree that the threat posed by ISIS is very real. We must face this challenge. We owe it to the families of the three servicemen who have already lost their lives in Operation Inherent Resolve. We owe it every American citizen to fully debate these issues-in the light of day. The Constitution provides Congress the responsibility to declare war- because it is not a decision that should be made lightly.\n\"I know many of my constituents remain skeptical about the ongoing conflict in Iraq-where we have been actively engaged for over a decade. And now we are told we have a new 'multi-year' engagement. I plan to press for a one-year duration for this new ISIS-focused AUMF.  We must be watchful that this engagement doesn't vastly change in scope without the approval of Congress and support from our constituents.\n\"As Secretary Kerry knows, I am also quite skeptical about the so called moderate forces in Syria. Public domain sources are full of reports-of defections and loss of U.S. funded weapons-to the forces of ISIS and Al-Qaeda in Syria. And that some rebels have joined forces with ISIS - so they may only be 'moderate' when seeking U.S. weapons.\u00a0\n\"I opposed arming rebel groups last year, but the current defense authorization includes funding for U.S. weapons and training for 'moderate' forces in Syria. I have requested more information-from Secretary Kerry and from the president-on the effectiveness of this strategy, including progress of ongoing covert trainings. But I have yet to receive a full and adequate response.\n\"I remain highly skeptical-that current vetting and monitoring efforts are sufficient to prevent more of the same...with more U.S. arms and resources falling into the wrong hands.  And if they fail, then we will see more and more calls for U.S. direct involvement-including ground forces.  I believe the American people are deeply, deeply skeptical of this situation.\"\n \n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20160907004317/http://www.tomudall.senate.gov/?p=audio&id=1817", "Tuesdays with Tom 12-9-2014 [audio]", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Play  \n\t\t\tAudio requires Flash Player  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\u00a0\nWASHINGTON - Today, on a conference call with New Mexico reporters, U.S. Senator Tom Udall affirmed that he stands by the state of New Mexico's recent decision to fine the Department of Energy for the radiation leak at WIPP last February, and underscored that under no circumstances should penalties come out of DOE cleanup funds, or other programs in New Mexico.\nUdall also discussed several items Congress is working on this week, including the need to pass both a budget and the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes several proposals Udall introduced related to public lands in New Mexico. These proposals would improve access at Valles Caldera and designate the Columbine Hondo wilderness near Wheeler Peak, streamline oil and gas permitting at the Bureau of Land Management's field offices in Carlsbad and Farmington, and create a national park dedicated to the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos.\nFinally, Udall discussed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing taking place this afternoon on whether Congress should formally authorize military force against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Udall expressed his opposition to sending ground troops and his concerns about potentially entering a third Iraq war - this time including Syria - without a clear understanding of the length and extent of the U.S. commitment.\nBelow are highlights from Udall's remarks: \n0:00 - Udall thanks everyone for joining the call.\n0:15 - \"I stand by the state's decision to fine the department for hazardous waste violations. It's why I fought to ensure New Mexico has environmental authority over WIPP waste operations as part of the deal that allowed WIPP to open 15 years ago. I want to make it clear that under no circumstances should penalties come out of DOE cleanup activities or other programs in New Mexico.\" \n0:49 -\"As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will do everything I can to ensure DOE does not take the fines out of New Mexico lab funding. We're still waiting on the results of the investigation into what caused the radiation release at WIPP. I'm watching this very carefully. WIPP and LANL are critical to our state's economy and our national security and there is no room for error or denial.\" \n1:24 - \"First, we need to pass a budget to fund the government including the labs and bases and many other federal agencies like the VA, the Park Service, the Forest Service and the BLM. But Republicans are dragging their feet and threatening shutdowns.\"\n2:01 - \"I'll keep working as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to avoid a shutdown and pass a real appropriations bill that funds the government for next year.\"\n2:11 - \"Second, Congress also must pass the National Defense Authorization Act before the end of the year. That bill sets the policy for how much the government will spend on national defense needs - everything from military pay and benefits to the number of airplanes we purchase. That is critical to New Mexico's bases and the many men and women who serve us in the military.\"\n2:36 - \"But the bill also includes proposals I introduced dealing with public lands - to improve access at Valles Caldera and to create the Columbine Hondo wilderness near Wheeler Peak; to streamline oil and gas permitting at the BLM's field offices in Carlsbad and Farmington; and to create a national park dedicated to the Manhattan Project. Not only will these bills preserve these incredible sites for future generations, they will help fuel New Mexico's economy by increasing tourism and helping the energy economy.\"\n3:26 - \"The Constitution gives Congress the responsibility to declare war, and that is something I take very seriously. The last time Congress approved military force was over a decade ago - for a very different conflict. I'm very skeptical of the administration's plans. I'm concerned that we're headed into a third Iraq war - now including Syria - without a clear idea for how long we will be involved and what our commitment will be.\"\n4:26 - \"New Mexicans don't want us involved in another religious civil war in the Middle East. And I do not support sending in ground troops. These are issues that require serious consideration, and I feel we're rushing to action for political reasons.\" \n5:00 - Udall answers questions from reporters on topics including LANL and WIPP contracts and fines, public lands provisions in the NDAA, and the Senate Intelligence Committee report on CIA interrogation practices.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-continues-to-lead-on-modernizing-energy-infrastructure", "Heinrich Continues To Lead On Modernizing Energy Infrastructure", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Continues To Lead On Modernizing Energy Infrastructure\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tPREPARE Act Aims to Help States and Regions Build Cleaner, More Resilient Energy Systems\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 9, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, cosponsored\u00a0the Promoting Regional Energy Partnerships for Advancing Resilient Energy Systems Act (PREPARE Act), a bill to help states modernize U.S. energy systems to make them cleaner, more efficient, cost-effective, reliable and resilient. With an aging U.S. energy infrastructure in need of replacement and growing challenges to grid security, the PREPARE Act authorizes the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to enter into regional cooperative agreements with states to provide support and funding that will help states develop strategies and plans that address the unique energy needs of the region. U.S. Senator\u00a0Brian Schatz (D-Hawai\u2018i) introduced the bill.\u00a0 \u00a0\r\n\"Our nation's electric power industry is going through substantial changes. This bill provides an opportunity for states to collaborate on regional approaches for cleaner power generation and transmission -- which are critical to reducing carbon pollution and keeping prices low for consumers,\" said Sen. Heinrich.\u00a0 \"Our state has a unique role to play in coordinating and siting significant new generation and transmission infrastructure that will be essential for growing our economy.\u00a0 Additionally, we are well poised to capitalize on a diversified, but rapidly transforming energy sector, and we stand to benefit from this kind of regional collaboration.\"\r\n\"In Hawai\u2018i, we have seen great success in developing an energy strategy that has increased clean energy production and cut electricity bills, saving customers $1.5 billion since 2009.\u00a0 But we were only able to do this by working collaboratively with the Department of Energy and business and community leaders in the state,\" said Sen. Schatz.\u00a0 \"Our bill empowers the Energy Department to give states and regions the tools they need to modernize their energy infrastructure and build a cleaner, more resilient system.\"\r\nThe PREPARE Act is modeled off of the successful Hawai\u2018i Clean Energy Initiative -- a federal-state-business-NGO partnership.\u00a0 Introduced in 2008, the partnership provided DOE assistance to the state, which helped convene cross-sectoral working groups and coordinate federal technical assistance.\u00a0 Since its implementation, energy from renewable sources has risen to 18% in Hawai\u2018i, saving an estimated 794 GWh of electricity and $1.5 billion on electricity bills since 2009.\u00a0 Hawai\u2018i now ranks 10th in the nation in clean energy jobs.\u00a0\r\nThe PREPARE Act also builds upon the successful State Energy Program administered by DOE.\u00a0 The program provides funding and technical assistance to State Energy Offices to prepare state energy plans and implement clean energy and energy efficiency programs. Since its creation in 1996, it has delivered energy cost savings of $256 million per year, and every $1 of federal funds under the program has leveraged $10.71 in private and state funds and returned $7.22 in energy cost savings.\u00a0 From energy efficiency rules in Mississippi expected to save customers $2.3 billion in energy bills by 2034, to a business launch program for innovative energy enterprises in New Hampshire, to a large solar array program to help businesses cut energy costs in Tennessee, it has supported states with a diversity of clean energy programs.\u00a0 PREPARE would build on that with a regional approach and will offer assistance on planning that encompasses far more than just clean energy programs.\r\nSenator Heinrich is a staunch advocate for modernizing our country's electric transmission grid. Last month, he introduced S. 2947, a bill to remove barriers to creating a cleaner, more consumer-friendly electric grid.\u00a0The bill clarifies that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has the legal authority to require regional grid operators in interstate wholesale markets to allow consumers to be compensated for voluntarily reducing their electricity consumption -- a tool referred to as demand response. By providing incentives for consumers to reduce their use of power, demand response lowers overall electricity costs, improves reliability and efficiency, and reduces emissions.\u00a0\r\nA copy of the PREPARE Act is available here.\r\nA one-page summary of the PREPARE Act is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-remarks-on-release-of-report-on-cia-detention-interrogation-program", "Heinrich Remarks On Release Of Report On CIA Detention, Interrogation Program", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, will deliver the following remarks today on the release of the executive summary and the findings and conclusions of the committee\u2019s five-year review of the CIA\u2019s detention and interrogation program.\u00a0Senator Heinrich has been a leading proponent of declassifying the report.\u00a0\r\nA copy of the report is available, HERE.\r\nSenator Heinrich's remarks as prepared for delivery are below:\r\nU.S. SENATE SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE'S STUDY OF THE CIA'S DETENTION AND INTERROGATION PROGRAM\r\nTorture is wrong; it is un-American; and it doesn't work.\u00a0\r\nRecognizing these important realities, the President signed an Executive Order in January 2009 that limited interrogations by any American personnel to the guidelines in the Army Field Manual, and reinforcing the commitment that prisoners in U.S. custody are entitled to rights under the Geneva Conventions.\u00a0\r\nThis closed the book on the Bush Administration's interrogation program.\r\nBut make no mistake. These weren't just \"enhanced interrogations.\" This was torture.\r\nReleasing the Intelligence Committee's study of the CIA's detention and interrogation program to the American people today will finally provide a thorough accounting of what happened and how it happened.\u00a0 In addition, I hope that this process helps to ensure that it never, ever happens again.\r\nThis was a grave chapter in our history.\u00a0 The actions taken under this program cost our nation global credibility and they put the lives of Americans at risk.\r\nSome have suggested that releasing this report could put American lives at risk. Let's be clear, it has been the use of torture that puts Americans unnecessarily in harm's way.\r\nThere is no question that there will never be a \"good time\" to release this study.\u00a0 We all know that for months now terrorists in the extremist group ISIS have been kidnapping and barbarically killing innocent Americans because of what we, as a nation, stand for.\u00a0\r\nThe response to their threats and terrorism should not be for us to change our American values.\u00a0 It should be to stand firm in our values and work with our allies to root out extremism and terrorism in all its forms.\r\nThe release of this study will finally let us face what was done in the name of the American people, and allow for future generations to use these findings to learn from the mistakes made by the architects of this program.\r\nThis is an objective and fact-based study.\u00a0 It is a fair study.\u00a0 And it is the only comprehensive study conducted of this program and the CIA's treatment of its detainees in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks.\r\nToday marks an enormous, if painful step in the right direction.\r\nIt is important to know that these torture methods were the brainchild of a few CIA officials and their contractors.\u00a0 When I joined the Intelligence Committee two years ago, I began to read the classified report material and was surprised to learn this.\u00a0 Frankly, it was not consistent with my assumptions.\u00a0 It wasn't what my prejudices told me to expect.\u00a0 That is why a fact-based accounting is so very important.\r\nFurthermore, it is important to know that at every turn, CIA leadership avoided Congressional oversight, and even worse, misled Congress.\r\nThe CIA deliberately kept the vast majority of the Senate and House Intelligence Committees in the dark on the interrogation techniques until the day the president revealed the detention and interrogation program to the world in 2006 - four years after it began.\u00a0\r\nEven then, misrepresentations to the Committee about the effectiveness of the CIA's detention and interrogation program continued, in large part because the CIA had never performed any comprehensive review of the effectiveness of the interrogation techniques or the actions of its officers.\u00a0\r\nMyths of the effectiveness of torture have been repeated; perpetrating the fable that this was a necessary program that saved lives.\u00a0\r\nThe Committee examined the CIA's claims of plots thwarted and detainees captured as a result of intelligence gained through torture.\u00a0\r\nIn each and every case, the Committee found that the intelligence was already available from other sources or provided by the detainees themselves before they were tortured.\r\nHowever, we need to stop treating the issue of torture as one worthy of debate over its practical merits.\u00a0 This is about torture being immoral. Being un-American.\r\nReducing a human being to a state of despair through systematic subjugation, pain, and humiliation is unquestionably immoral.\u00a0\r\nIt should never happen again with the blessing of the American government.\u00a0 As my friend and colleague, Senator Angus King said in an interview this morning, \"This is not America.\u00a0 This is not who we are.\"\r\nThe information in the study released today to the public will finally pull back the curtain on the terrible judgment that went into creating and implementing this interrogation program.\r\nThe decision to use these techniques and the defense of the program were the work of a small number of people at the CIA.\r\nThis study is in no way a condemnation of the thousands of men and women at this great agency who work tirelessly every day to protect and defend our nation from very real and imminent threats using lawful and effective measures.\u00a0\r\nIn fact, the insistence that so many intelligence successes are the result of \"enhanced interrogations\" negates and marginalizes the effective work done by hundreds of other CIA officers not involved in these activities.\r\nWhat this study does is to show that multiple levels of government were misled about the effectiveness of these techniques. If secretive government agencies want to operate in a democracy, there must be trust and transparency with those tasked with oversight.\u00a0\r\nAs the Committee carries out future oversight, we will benefit from the lessons in this study.\u00a0 And I hope we never let the challenges of our difficult times used as an excuse to frustrate and defer oversight the way it was in the early years covered by this report.\r\nAlthough President Obama ended the program by signing the Executive Order in 2009, any future president could reverse that order.\r\nIt is worth remembering that years before this detention and interrogation program even began, the CIA had sworn off the harsh interrogations of its past; but in the wake of the terrorist attacks against the United States, it repeated those mistakes by once again engaging in brutal interrogations that undermined our nation's credibility on the issue of human rights, produced information of dubious value, and wasted millions of taxpayer dollars.\u00a0\r\nThe public interest in this issue has centered on the personalities involved, and the political battle waged in the release of this study.\u00a0 But those stories are reductive, and I hope they will soon pass.\u00a0\r\nBecause the story of what happened in the CIA's detention and interrogation program -- and how it happened -- is too important, and needs to be fully understood so that future generations will not make the same mistakes our country made out of anger, fear, and expediency.\r\nWhen America engages in these acts with authorization from the highest levels of government, we invite others to treat our citizens the same way.\u00a0\r\nThis study should serve as a warning to those who would make similar choices in the future.\r\nLet us learn from the mistakes of the past -- and let us never, ever repeat these mistakes.\r\nBefore I close, I'd like to acknowledge that the Intelligence Committee's study of the CIA's detention and interrogation program represents many years of hard work by Members and staff who faced incredible obstacles in completing their work.\r\nThe fact that this study was finished is a testament to the dedication and focus of Chairmen Rockefeller and Chair Feinstein in deciding that oversight is our job, regardless of how long it takes.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/video_-heinrich-torture-is-immoral-it-is-un-america-and-it-doesnt-work", "Video - Heinrich: Torture Is Immoral, It Is Un-American, And It Doesn't Work", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Video - Heinrich: Torture Is Immoral, It Is Un-American, And It Doesn't Work\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 9, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, spoke on the Senate floor today following the release of the executive summary and the findings and conclusions of the committee's five-year review of the CIA's detention and interrogation program. Senator Heinrich has been a leading proponent of declassifying the report.\r\n\"Releasing the Intelligence Committee's study of the CIA's detention and interrogation program to the American people today will finally provide a thorough accounting of what happened and how it happened.\u00a0 In addition, I hope that this process helps to ensure that it never, ever happens again,\" said Sen. Heinrich. \"This was a grave chapter in our history.\u00a0 The actions taken under this program cost our nation global credibility and they put the lives of Americans at risk.\"\r\nA copy of the report is available, HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-merkley-urge-mcconnell-to-continue-rules-reform-to-fix-broken-senate", "Udall, Merkley Urge McConnell to Continue Rules Reform to Fix Broken Senate", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Merkley Urge McConnell to Continue Rules Reform to Fix Broken Senate \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - In a letter delivered today to incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) announced that they will continue their effort to reform the Senate rules on the first day of the next legislative session, and they urged McConnell to allow debate and support efforts to restore a healthy legislative process. Since joining the Senate in 2009, Udall and Merkley have led the effort to increase transparency, restore accountability and foster debate in an institution where obstruction and dysfunction have pushed aside progress for the American people. \"It is our hope that you will allow the Senate to debate these rules changes, as well as any others offered by our colleagues, and that each can receive an up or down vote,\" Udall and Merkley wrote to McConnell. \"Many members on both sides recognize the recent dysfunction in the Senate and we believe that a full and open rules debate at the start of the new Congress is a necessary step towards restoring a healthy legislative process.\" In 2011 and 2013, Udall, Merkley, and Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced a comprehensive package of rules reforms to address the systematic abuse of the filibuster and other procedural tactics that prevent the Senate from doing its work. Republicans objected to the proposed reforms, but the growing support for the effort led to a \"gentlemen's agreement\" in January 2013 between Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to enact more moderate reforms. That agreement quickly broke down as Republicans continued to regularly filibuster nominees. In November 2013, Reid decided to use the so-called \"nuclear option\" -- with the support of Udall and Merkley - forcing a Senate vote to change the rules and end filibusters on presidential executive and judicial nominations, except to the U.S. Supreme Court.   Ending filibusters on many nominations has relieved the backlog of executive and judicial nominations. But significant reform is still needed, such as a \"talking filibuster, which would require senators to voice their opposition to legislation in person on the Senate floor.  In their letter, Udall and Merkley encouraged McConnell to use the \"Constitutional Option\" --  a procedural mechanism that allows a simple majority to end debate on rules changes at the beginning of a new Congress - \"to allow substantive debate on potential rules reforms, followed by majority votes on each proposal\" when Congress returns in January. The Constitutional Option has been used numerous times since the cloture provision was adopted in 1917; the last being in 1975 when it was the catalyst for amending the filibuster rule to its current form. \"We are greatly encouraged by reports that the next majority is leaning towards retaining the most recent change lowering the cloture threshold for most nominees,\" the senators wrote. \"This change has allowed critical executive and judicial vacancies to be filled in a more timely fashion in line with long standing Senate traditions, as well as restored the constitutional majority standard for advice and consent.\"  \"The unprecedented use of the filibuster, filling the amendment tree, and other procedural tactics, by both parties, has prevented the Senate from getting its work done,\" Udall and Merkley concluded. \"The Senate needs to return to its historical practice of operating as a deliberative yet majoritarian body, when filibusters were rare and bipartisanship was the norm. We believe the proposed rules changes in our resolution provide common sense reforms that will restore the best traditions of the Senate and allow it to conduct the business that the American people expect.\" The full text of the letter is available below and HERE: The Honorable Mitch McConnell  Minority Leader  United States Senate  Washington, DC 20510 Dear Leader McConnell: As you know, we introduced resolutions on the first days of the 112th and 113th Congresses to reform the Senate rules and allow the body to function as our founders intended. At the time, many Republicans derided these efforts as a \"power grab\" by members of the majority party. We write today to notify you that we will introduce the reform proposals again at the beginning of the 114th Congress, when we are in the minority. It is our hope that you will allow the Senate to debate these rules changes, as well as any others offered by our colleagues, and that each can receive an up or down vote.  Many members on both sides recognize the recent dysfunction in the Senate and we believe that a full and open rules debate at the start of the new Congress is a necessary step towards restoring a healthy legislative process. We are greatly encouraged by reports that the next majority is leaning towards retaining the most recent change lowering the cloture threshold for most nominees. This change has allowed critical executive and judicial vacancies to be filled in a more timely fashion in line with long standing Senate traditions, as well as restored the constitutional majority standard for advice and consent.  While there has been much discussion of how the new majority will approach the question of changes to Senate procedures, one of the most critical changes you could make would be to establish a standard process for considering any proposals to amend the Senate's rules at the beginning of each Congress. Over the years, Senators of both parties have stated that Article I, Section 5 of the Constitution gives the Senate the right to adopt and amend its rules at the beginning of a new Congress by a simple majority vote - what has become known as the Constitutional Option. It has been used numerous times since the cloture provision was adopted in 1917, and has led to significant reforms such as the amending the filibuster rule to the three-fifths threshold in 1975. We encourage you to use the Constitutional Option at the beginning of the 114th Congress to allow substantive debate on potential rules reforms, followed by majority votes on each proposal. We believe this will lead to the adoption of sensible changes to the rules that have a lasting impact on the body. For example, Senate rules could be improved to restore a healthier and more open floor amendment process, which you have made many recent public commitments to provide, and to institute a \"talking filibuster\" that encourages that the filibuster return to being a tool that is used sparingly. We believe rules reform is a preferable option over \"gentlemen's agreements\" by leadership or bipartisan coalitions of members, such as the \"Gang of 14\" in the 109th Congress. While these arrangements may have short-term benefits, they often deteriorate and lead to greater mistrust and dysfunction, as we've seen in this Congress.  The unprecedented use of the filibuster, filling the amendment tree, and other procedural tactics, by both parties, has prevented the Senate from getting its work done. The Senate needs to return to its historical practice of operating as a deliberative yet majoritarian body, when filibusters were rare and bipartisanship was the norm. We believe the proposed rules changes in our resolution provide common sense reforms that will restore the best traditions of the Senate and allow it to conduct the business that the American people expect.  We look forward to working with you on further Senate rules reforms in the 114th Congress. Sincerely, Tom Udall  United States Senator Jeff Merkley  United States Senator", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-presses-kerry-on-strategy-authority-for-war-against-isis", "Udall Presses Kerry on Strategy, Authority for War Against ISIS", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Presses Kerry on Strategy, Authority for War Against ISIS \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t At Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, expresses skepticism, frustration that White House has not worked with Congress on AUMF\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, attended a hearing on the war with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria to share his grave concerns about the United States entering a third war in the region.  Udall expressed his frustration with the administration's reluctance to work with Congress to define the scope of and authorization for its military engagement against ISIS.  Udall questioned Secretary of State John Kerry about the continuing role Congress should play in granting authority for military operations. And he pressed Kerry for answers about how the administration plans to pay for the war, highlighting that recent military engagements in the region have been \"paid on the government credit card.\"\nUdall continues to push for Congress to live up to its constitutional responsibility to define the president's authority in engaging with ISIS, and believes it is critical to repeal the broad authorizations used to justify our current military involvement against ISIS, Operation Inherent Resolve. Finally, Udall said he will push for a one-year limit to this authority, and that Congress must have a say in extending the engagement or broadening the scope of U.S. military action.\nUdall issued the following statement:\n \n\"To be frank, I share in the disappointment expressed by many of my colleagues-that it took this long...for the administration to engage with us to develop a new Authorization for the Use of Military Force. I agree that the threat posed by ISIS is very real. We must face this challenge. We owe it to the families of the three servicemen who have already lost their lives in Operation Inherent Resolve. We owe it every American citizen to fully debate these issues-in the light of day. The Constitution provides Congress the responsibility to declare war- because it is not a decision that should be made lightly.\n\"I know many of my constituents remain skeptical about the ongoing conflict in Iraq-where we have been actively engaged for over a decade. And now we are told we have a new 'multi-year' engagement. I plan to press for a one-year duration for this new ISIS-focused AUMF.  We must be watchful that this engagement doesn't vastly change in scope without the approval of Congress and support from our constituents.\n\"As Secretary Kerry knows, I am also quite skeptical about the so called moderate forces in Syria. Public domain sources are full of reports-of defections and loss of U.S. funded weapons-to the forces of ISIS and Al-Qaeda in Syria. And that some rebels have joined forces with ISIS - so they may only be 'moderate' when seeking U.S. weapons.\n\"I opposed arming rebel groups last year, but the current defense authorization includes funding for U.S. weapons and training for 'moderate' forces in Syria. I have requested more information-from Secretary Kerry and from the president-on the effectiveness of this strategy, including progress of ongoing covert trainings. But I have yet to receive a full and adequate response.\n\"I remain highly skeptical-that current vetting and monitoring efforts are sufficient to prevent more of the same...with more U.S. arms and resources falling into the wrong hands.  And if they fail, then we will see more and more calls for U.S. direct involvement-including ground forces.  I believe the American people are deeply, deeply skeptical of this situation.\"\n \n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-statement-on-senate-intelligence-committee-report-on-cia-interrogation-practices", "Udall Statement on Senate Intelligence Committee Report on CIA Interrogation Practices", "2014-12-09", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 09, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Senate Intelligence Committee Report on CIA Interrogation Practices \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the Senate Intelligence Committee's review of the Central Intelligence Agency's detention and interrogation program. A copy of the report is available HERE. \"The Senate investigators' report documents the use of brutal interrogation techniques that I believe constitute torture and violate U.S. and international law. In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, we compromised the values that make our nation great. This report underscores that torture is not only brutal and inhumane, it so often produces unreliable intelligence that it is also ineffective.\n\"The release of today's report has been controversial, but it's an important step forward in addressing a stain on our nation's history. While we can understand the intelligence community's desire to prevent another attack, a civilized nation should never resort to torture in the name of security. My hope is that this report informs future generations of Americans and ensures that we never undertake programs like this again.\"\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1815", "Udall Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy Following Accident at WIPP [press_release]", "2014-12-08", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 08, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy Following Accident at WIPP \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the state of New Mexico's decision to fine the U.S. Department of Energy over $54 million for numerous violations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant and Los Alamos National Laboratory: \"The investigation by the state of New Mexico found that the accident last February put at risk the health of workers and the nearby community. The action the state has taken is appropriate and shows why I have long fought for state environmental authority over WIPP waste operations. WIPP and LANL are a vital part of New Mexico's economy and our national security, and with such high stakes, there is no room for error or denial. Fines should not come out of DOE clean-up activities, and those responsible should not get bonuses or rewards for their mistakes. Further investigation into what led to the radiation release at WIPP will determine whether more penalties or action are necessary.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-statement-on-state-of-new-mexico-and-039s-decision-to-fine-us-department-of-energy-following-accident-at-wipp", "Udall Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy Following Accident at WIPP", "2014-12-08", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 08, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy Following Accident at WIPP \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the state of New Mexico's decision to fine the U.S. Department of Energy over $54 million for numerous violations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant and Los Alamos National Laboratory: \"The investigation by the state of New Mexico found that the accident last February put at risk the health of workers and the nearby community. The action the state has taken is appropriate and shows why I have long fought for state environmental authority over WIPP waste operations. WIPP and LANL are a vital part of New Mexico's economy and our national security, and with such high stakes, there is no room for error or denial. Fines should not come out of DOE clean-up activities, and those responsible should not get bonuses or rewards for their mistakes. Further investigation into what led to the radiation release at WIPP will determine whether more penalties or action are necessary.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pearce.house.gov/editorial/sunzia-project-threatens-national-security", "SUNZIA PROJECT THREATENS NATIONAL SECURITY", "2014-12-07", "2014", "2014-12", "Republican", "House", "NM", "Steve Pearce", "P000588", "pearce.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By: State Senator Mary Kay Papen and Congressman Steve Pearce\nWashington, DC (Dec. 7, 2014)\u00a0Today, we in the United States face an unprecedented variety and quantity of threats against our safety.\u00a0 From Chinese cyber aggression, to the possibility of ISIS terror attacks \u2013 our nation must defend itself.\u00a0 In order to do that, our military requires the ability to train and adapt to threats as they emerge and evolve, as well as the ability to develop and test new technology that will assist in strengthening our security.\u00a0\nThere is only one military installation in the world that is able to provide this dual capability for the U.S. \u2013 White Sands Missile Range (WSMR).\u00a0\nWSMR is the nation\u2019s premier development and test facility.\u00a0 Unlike any other range, WSMR allows the military to conduct live tests of everything from Patriot missiles to laser interceptors.\u00a0\nThis diversity is possible because of WSMR\u2019s size and location. Covering roughly 4,000 square miles, with 100 percent restricted airspace; the Army, Navy, and Air Force have a unique environment to create and engage in virtually any test that is needed.\nUnder current global conditions \u2013 this versatility makes WSMR invaluable to our national security and the protection of our men and women in uniform.\u00a0 Unfortunately, some appear to believe that corporate profits come before the defense and security of the United States.\u00a0\nIn 2008, the SunZia Corporation began plans to construct a 515 mile long transmission line across New Mexico to Arizona.\u00a0 Utilizing alternative energy sources, the line will support Phoenix and other large Arizona cities with significant energy assistance.\u00a0\nTo be clear, we support the prospects of alternative energy development in New Mexico, and we do not oppose the construction of the SunZia transmission project.\u00a0 What is unsupportable is the route.\nCurrently, the route would directly impact WSMR by cutting through an important section of the installation.\u00a0 It is utilized for nearly 30 percent of the test and evaluation operations ongoing at WSMR, and this percentage will increase in coming years.\u00a0 Routing the line through this area will cripple the military\u2019s ability to conduct critical tests, jeopardizing not just the survival of WSMR, but the safety and security of American soldiers and American citizens.\u00a0\nThe SunZia transmission line is projected to cost more than one billion dollars, but construction has not begun. Final environmental impact studies have yet to be completed, and so, alterations to the route can still be made with little difficulty, delay or cost. \u00a0Not to mention it would be easier to construct next to existing power lines \u2013 like those already along Highway 60.\u00a0 Yet, for the last 6 years, SunZia has fought to route the transmission line through WSMR.\u00a0\nWe have yet to understand why, and our support remains solidly behind the mission of the Range.\nEarlier this fall, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel agreed to mitigation terms that would allow the line to cut across WSMR, with the requirement of three small buried sections.\u00a0\nFrom day one, the Department of Defense opposed any effort that would impact the viability and flexibility of WSMR, while the Department of the Interior seemed determined to approve the line regardless of the security and economic implications it has for New Mexico and the nation.\u00a0\nHowever, after senior officials at the White House were briefed on SunZia\u2019s project and the conflict that existed, Defense suddenly agreed to approve the transmission line, despite crossing WSMR.\u00a0\nWe struggle to understand how anyone could believe it is more important to prioritize the construction of a transmission line, than to protect the nation\u2019s top test and evaluation site, which is unlike anywhere else in the world.\u00a0 In the end, it seems as though an unfortunate compromise was made, placing corporate profits over national security.\u00a0 This is unwise and dangerous.\nThe Albuquerque Journal, Las Cruces Sun-News, Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce and Governor Martinez, have all opposed SunZia compromising WSMR\u2019s mission.\u00a0 The Range provides nearly $1 billion annually in revenue for New Mexico, and employs roughly 10,000 of our friends, family members and neighbors.\u00a0 Most importantly, it provides our military with the spring board to conceptualize, develop and test the next generation of defense capabilities to face any threat against the United States head on.\u00a0\nWhite Sands Missile Range is fundamental to national defense, and to obstruct its mission is to invite peril.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-statement-on-state-of-new-mexicos-decision-to-fine-us-department-of-energy-for-violations-at-wipp", "Heinrich Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy for Violations at WIPP", "2014-12-06", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Statement on State of New Mexico's Decision to Fine U.S. Department of Energy for Violations at WIPP\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, December 6, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, issued the following statement on the state of New Mexico's decision to fine the U.S. Department of Energy over $54 million for numerous violations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant and Los Alamos National Laboratory:\r\n\u201cThe State's action is warranted and I agree that these fines should not jeopardize completing the environmental cleanup at Los Alamos National Lab and WIPP. Our nation\u2019s security relies heavily on the important work being done at these facilities, which are also big employers and critical to New Mexico\u2019s economy. Collaboration between the Department of Energy, regulators, WIPP, and the community will be critical. The safety and health of our workers and community is of the utmost importance. Ensuring that the lines of communication remain open and that key maintenance and management programs are in place will continue to be a priority.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1814", "Udall Statement on Nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense [press_release]", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 05, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the president's decision to nominate Ashton Carter to serve as Secretary of Defense:  \"The United States and the broader international community are confronting multiple quickly evolving threats in the Middle East, including the emergence of the brutal terrorist organization ISIS. Ashton Carter has the respect of senior military leaders having served under multiple secretaries of defense, managed large budgets and handled many demands under scrutiny. I have appreciated Secretary Hagel's strong understanding of the strategic importance of our national laboratories to our national defense, and I look forward to meeting with Mr. Carter during the confirmation process to discuss his views on New Mexico's national security mission.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-introduces-bill-to-establish-tech-transfer-maturation-program", "Heinrich Introduces Bill To Establish Tech Transfer Maturation Program", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Introduces Bill To Establish Tech Transfer Maturation Program\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 5, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, introduced S. 2973, the National Laboratory Technology Maturation Act. The bill would launch a new National Laboratory Technology Maturation Program (NLTMP) at the U.S. Department of Energy to facilitate successful commercialization of laboratory-developed technologies.\r\nThe new program would provide funding to each national laboratory to be used by small businesses with a licensed technology from a laboratory, such as Sandia National Laboratories or Los Alamos National Laboratory, to purchase up to $250,000 in assistance from lab scientists and engineers to help commercialize the lab-developed technology. The goal of the program is to encourage small businesses to further advance new products or services until they are market-ready. The bill emphasizes national labs partnering with near-by small businesses.\r\n\"Supporting partnerships between small businesses and our national labs to develop new technologies is a job-creating formula that will spur innovation. And that's what my bill helps do,\" said Sen. Heinrich. \"New Mexico business owners and the scientists and engineers at our national labs' have the intellect and capacity to provide a steady stream of technologies that could yield dividends in commercial markets. Great things can happen when we bring our small businesses and national labs together -- it sparks the imagination of future innovators and widens the impact for great discoveries.\"\u00a0\r\nA recent Brookings Institution\u00a0report\u00a0suggested a voucher program for local businesses could help connect national laboratories with their regions and support innovation and economic growth.\u00a0 The report indicated that the labs should \"embrace a new mission that includes more active engagement with regional innovation systems within which they are located. Such engagement will not substitute for the labs' critical national mission, but will instead complement and advance it.\"\u00a0 The authors further note, \"the labs can maximize their impact on the national economy by maximizing their local economic impact.\"\r\nSenator Heinrich is a strong proponent of bolstering tech transfer from New Mexico's two flagship national laboratories.\u00a0 He recently\u00a0introduced\u00a0S. 2932, the Microlab Technology Commercialization Act of 2014, a bill to accelerate technology transfer by establishing off-campus microlabs that would serve as the \"front-door\" to national laboratories. The microlabs would give academia, local government, businesses owners, and communities direct access to equipment, facilities, and personnel of our national labs.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nA copy of the National Laboratory Technology Maturation Act is available\u00a0here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-staff-to-hold-mobile-office-hours-in-lordsburg-and-silver-city", "Heinrich Staff To Hold Mobile Office Hours In Lordsburg And Silver City", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Staff To Hold Mobile Office Hours In Lordsburg And Silver City\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 5, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tLAS CRUCES, N.M. - In an ongoing effort to provide top-notch constituent service, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's (D-N.M.) staff will hold Mobile Office Hours in Lordsburg and Silver City on Monday, December 8, 2014. Staff will be on hand to assist residents who have questions regarding Social Security benefits, Medicare, immigration, veterans benefits, and other federal programs. Information regarding\u00a0health care open enrollment\u00a0will also be available at Mobile Office Hours. All are encouraged to attend.\r\nConstituents who are not able to attend Mobile Office Hours are encouraged to visit the\u00a0Helping You\u00a0section or\u00a0Health Care Resources\u00a0page of Senator Heinrich's\u00a0online office\u00a0at\u00a0www.Heinrich.Senate.Gov.\u00a0\r\nLordsburg - Monday, December 8,\u00a0 2014   WHO:\u00a0 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's Staff\u00a0   WHAT:\u00a0 Mobile Office Hours   WHEN:\u00a0 From 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.   WHERE:\u00a0Ena Mitchell Senior & Wellness Citizens Center, 532 DeMoss Street, Lordsburg, N.M. 88045\u00a0   QUESTIONS:\u00a0 Contact Senator Heinrich's Las Cruces Office (575) 523-6561\r\nSilver City - Monday, December 8,\u00a0 2014   WHO:\u00a0 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's Staff\u00a0   WHAT:\u00a0 Mobile Office Hours   WHEN:\u00a0 From 1 to 3 p.m.   WHERE:\u00a0The Volunteer Center of Grant County, 501 E. 13th Street, Silver City, N.M. 88061   QUESTIONS:\u00a0\u00a0Contact Senator Heinrich's Las Cruces Office (575) 523-6561", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-statement-on-nomination-of-ashton-carter-as-secretary-of-defense", "Udall Statement on Nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense", "2014-12-05", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 05, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Nomination of Ashton Carter as Secretary of Defense \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the president's decision to nominate Ashton Carter to serve as Secretary of Defense:  \"The United States and the broader international community are confronting multiple quickly evolving threats in the Middle East, including the emergence of the brutal terrorist organization ISIS. Ashton Carter has the respect of senior military leaders having served under multiple secretaries of defense, managed large budgets and handled many demands under scrutiny. I have appreciated Secretary Hagel's strong understanding of the strategic importance of our national laboratories to our national defense, and I look forward to meeting with Mr. Carter during the confirmation process to discuss his views on New Mexico's national security mission.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1812", "Delegation Praises Retiring BLM Director for N.M., Urges Careful Consideration of States Diverse Public Lands Issues in Selecting Successor [press_release]", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2014\n\t\t\t Delegation Praises Retiring BLM Director for N.M., Urges \u0091Careful Consideration\u0092 of State\u0092s Diverse Public Lands Issues in Selecting Successor \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich and U.S. Reps. Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n, Michelle Lujan Grisham and Steve Pearce announced that they have sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), thanking retiring BLM New Mexico State Director Jesse Juen for his thoughtful and balanced leadership, and urging the BLM to proceed carefully to hire Juen's successor. BLM State Director is a critical position in New Mexico, responsible for 850 employees and the management of more than 13.4 million acres of public lands and 26 million acres of federal oil, natural gas, and minerals.  \"We have been fortunate to have a dedicated leader like Jesse, who has shown a focus and attention to the balanced management of BLM lands within New Mexico, and to the unique issues that our state's public lands face,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"New Mexico's unique landscape, history, and culture is reflected in the state's public lands. We would encourage you to select an individual to fill the New Mexico State Director position who is familiar with the state and the unique issues that BLM land managers and BLM land users face.\"  Those unique issues include the importance of balancing public lands management to support oil, gas and mineral leasing, grazing, recreation and conservation; as well as the needs of diverse communities, including Native Americans, and Spanish Land Grant Communities. Public lands also are critical to New Mexico's economy. In fiscal year 2012, they supported more than 85,000 jobs and boosted the economy by more than $7.8 billion.  \"We again applaud Jesse for his tireless work in balancing the complex issues that face New Mexico's public lands,\" the letter concludes. \"He will be a tough act for anyone to follow, but we respectfully request your careful consideration in selecting a new State Director who will be equally capable of managing New Mexico's public lands.\" A copy of the letter is available HERE and below:\nThe Honorable Neil Kornze  Director  U.S. Bureau of Land Management  1849 C Street, NW  Washington, DC 20240-0001\nDear Director Kornze:\nSince February of 2012, Jesse Juen has led the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in our state as the BLM New Mexico State Director.  We have been fortunate to have a dedicated leader like Jesse, who has shown a focus and attention to the balanced management of BLM lands within New Mexico, and to the unique issues that our state's public lands face.  We express our sincere appreciation for his public service and the work of his capable staff, and we wish him the best in his upcoming retirement.\nAs we look forward to the coming year, we would request your careful consideration of the BLM New Mexico State Director position.  As you know, New Mexico's unique landscape, history, and culture is reflected in the state's public lands.  We would encourage you to select an individual to fill the New Mexico State Director position who is familiar with the state and the unique issues that BLM land managers and BLM land users face.\nThe New Mexico State Director is responsible for the management of more than 13.4 million acres of public lands and 26 million acres of federal oil, natural gas, and minerals.  The director also manages and sets the priorities for a team of more than 850 employees.  According to your agency's own statistics, in fiscal year 2012, the BLM's management of the public lands in New Mexico has supported more than 85,000 jobs and boosted the economy by more than $7.8 billion.  Last year, New Mexico's share of oil and gas revenue on public lands was over $470 million.  The BLM State Director position is extremely important position for New Mexico, a position that demands a strong leader who is knowledgeable of oil and gas leasing, endangered species, recreation, ranching, and the traditional use issues that the many Native American and Spanish Land Grant communities face.\nWe again applaud Jesse for his tireless work in balancing the complex issues that face New Mexico's public lands.  He will be a tough act for anyone to follow, but we respectfully request your careful consideration in selecting a new State Director who will be equally capable of managing New Mexico's public lands.\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1813", "Wind Energy Could Slow Global Warming, but Tax Credits Needed, Udall and Advocates Say [press_release]", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2014\n\t\t\t Wind Energy Could Slow Global Warming, but Tax Credits Needed, Udall and Advocates Say \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON\u00a0-- Expanding wind power across the country could cut as much global warming pollution as 254 coal plants produce in a year, according to a new report, but congressional action is needed to make that expansion a reality, U.S. Senator Tom Udall and other clean energy advocates said today.\n\"Speeding the development of pollution-free wind energy will slow global warming,\" said Anna Aurilio, global warming solutions program director for Environment America. \"But Congress needs to invest now in clean air and a healthy planet.\"\nThe Environment America Research & Policy Center analysis, More Wind, Less Warming, comes as Congress debates renewing tax incentives that have spurred the nation's growth in wind power, which in 2013 supplied enough energy to power more than 15 million homes.\nClean energy champions Udall and Ed Markey (D-MA), and the American Wind Energy Association joined Environment America in the Capitol Visitors Center to release the report and call for action.\n\"New Mexico is at the eye of the storm when it comes to the impacts of climate change. But while global warming is a threat we must fight, it's also a tremendous opportunity to invest in clean energy jobs of the future, \" said U.S. Sen. Udall of New Mexico. \"Wind has huge potential -- not only is it carbon free, it's abundant in New Mexico, and it uses almost no water. Now is the time for Congress to make a commitment to fight climate change and help create jobs of the future by extending the wind production tax credit - not just for one year but long enough for this important industry to meet its full potential.\"\nIf wind power kept its recent pace of development, it could supply 30 percent of the nation's electricity needs by 2030, providing more than enough carbon reductions to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's proposed Clean Power Plan, and a third of the reductions the U.S. committed to achieving in its agreement with China.\n\"When we support clean energy development, we're promoting job creation that will help all of creation. That's because good clean energy policy is good climate policy, and helps us be the leader in developing the technologies that power our economy and protect our environment,\" said U.S. Sen. Markey of Massachusetts. \"America's wind energy industry is the future of our economy, and we need to invest in the fuels of the future, not the industries of the past.\"\nAmerica has the potential to power itself 10 times over with wind that blows both over land and off the coast.  Offshore wind development, which is in its nascent stages in the U.S., is critical to fulfilling the nation's full promise of wind energy, the report said.\nYesterday the U.S. House overwhelmingly adopted a plan to renew vital wind energy tax credits retroactively through the end of 2014, which advocates said was virtually meaningless. To ramp up wind power development and avoid massive job loss, the incentives for wind power projects should be renewed at least through 2015, they said.\n\"Congress needs to provide stability so that American workers can make more of our own energy here at home, and reduce carbon pollution as rapidly and cheaply as possible,\" said Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association. \"We need to get out of short-term thinking, including three-week extensions of the policy that is critical to building more wind energy, the Production Tax Credit. That's why we are urging the Senate today to stand up for renewable energy, vote for the EXPIRE Act, and extend the PTC at least through 2015, before considering a phase-out that would provide a glide path for the industry to keep scaling up.\"\n\"Wind power can replace the dirty energy sources of the past and the pollution that comes with them,\" Aurilio with Environment America concluded. \"But Congress needs to act now to ensure a clean energy future.\"\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/delegation-praises-retiring-blm-director-for-nm-urges-careful-consideration-of-states-diverse-public-lands-issues-in-selecting-successor", "Delegation Praises Retiring BLM Director for N.M., Urges ‘Careful Consideration’ of State’s Diverse Public Lands Issues in Selecting Successor", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Delegation Praises Retiring BLM Director for N.M., Urges \u2018Careful Consideration\u2019 of State\u2019s Diverse Public Lands Issues in Selecting Successor\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 4, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich and U.S. Reps. Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n, Michelle Lujan Grisham and Steve Pearce announced that they have sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), thanking retiring BLM New Mexico State Director Jesse Juen for his thoughtful and balanced leadership, and urging the BLM to proceed carefully to hire Juen\u2019s successor.\r\nBLM State Director is a critical position in New Mexico, responsible for 850 employees and the management of more than 13.4 million acres of public lands and 26 million acres of federal oil, natural gas, and minerals.\u00a0\r\n\u201cWe have been fortunate to have a dedicated leader like Jesse, who has shown a focus and attention to the balanced management of BLM lands within New Mexico, and to the unique issues that our state\u2019s public lands face,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cNew Mexico\u2019s unique landscape, history, and culture is reflected in the state\u2019s public lands. We would encourage you to select an individual to fill the New Mexico State Director position who is familiar with the state and the unique issues that BLM land managers and BLM land users face.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThose unique issues include the importance of balancing public lands management to support oil, gas and mineral leasing, grazing, recreation and conservation; as well as the needs of diverse communities, including Native Americans, and Spanish Land Grant Communities. Public lands also are critical to New Mexico\u2019s economy. In fiscal year 2012, they supported more than 85,000 jobs and boosted the economy by more than $7.8 billion.\u00a0\r\n\u201cWe again applaud Jesse for his tireless work in balancing the complex issues that face New Mexico\u2019s public lands,\u201d the letter concludes. \u201cHe will be a tough act for anyone to follow, but we respectfully request your careful consideration in selecting a new State Director who will be equally capable of managing New Mexico\u2019s public lands.\u201d\r\nA copy of the letter is available HERE and below:\r\nThe Honorable Neil Kornze\r\nDirector\r\nU.S. Bureau of Land Management\r\n1849 C Street, NW\r\nWashington, DC 20240-0001\r\n\r\n\r\nDear Director Kornze:\r\nSince February of 2012, Jesse Juen has led the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in our state as the BLM New Mexico State Director. \u00a0We have been fortunate to have a dedicated leader like Jesse, who has shown a focus and attention to the balanced management of BLM lands within New Mexico, and to the unique issues that our state\u2019s public lands face. \u00a0We express our sincere appreciation for his public service and the work of his capable staff, and we wish him the best in his upcoming retirement.\r\nAs we look forward to the coming year, we would request your careful consideration of the BLM New Mexico State Director position. \u00a0As you know, New Mexico\u2019s unique landscape, history, and culture is reflected in the state\u2019s public lands. \u00a0We would encourage you to select an individual to fill the New Mexico State Director position who is familiar with the state and the unique issues that BLM land managers and BLM land users face. \u00a0\r\nThe New Mexico State Director is responsible for the management of more than 13.4 million acres of public lands and 26 million acres of federal oil, natural gas, and minerals. \u00a0The director also manages and sets the priorities for a team of more than 850 employees. \u00a0According to your agency\u2019s own statistics, in fiscal year 2012, the BLM\u2019s management of the public lands in New Mexico has supported more than 85,000 jobs and boosted the economy by more than $7.8 billion. \u00a0Last year, New Mexico\u2019s share of oil and gas revenue on public lands was over $470 million. \u00a0The BLM State Director position is extremely important position for New Mexico, a position that demands a strong leader who is knowledgeable of oil and gas leasing, endangered species, recreation, ranching, and the traditional use issues that the many Native American and Spanish Land Grant communities face. \u00a0\r\nWe again applaud Jesse for his tireless work in balancing the complex issues that face New Mexico\u2019s public lands. \u00a0He will be a tough act for anyone to follow, but we respectfully request your careful consideration in selecting a new State Director who will be equally capable of managing New Mexico\u2019s public lands.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/delegation-praises-retiring-blm-director-for-nm-urges-and-145careful-consideration-and-146-of-state-and-146s-diverse-public-lands-issues-in-selecting-successor", "Delegation Praises Retiring BLM Director for N.M., Urges Careful Consideration of States Diverse Public Lands Issues in Selecting Successor", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2014\n\t\t\t Delegation Praises Retiring BLM Director for N.M., Urges Careful Consideration of States Diverse Public Lands Issues in Selecting Successor \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich and U.S. Reps. Ben Ray Lujn, Michelle Lujan Grisham and Steve Pearce announced that they have sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), thanking retiring BLM New Mexico State Director Jesse Juen for his thoughtful and balanced leadership, and urging the BLM to proceed carefully to hire Juen's successor. BLM State Director is a critical position in New Mexico, responsible for 850 employees and the management of more than 13.4 million acres of public lands and 26 million acres of federal oil, natural gas, and minerals.  \"We have been fortunate to have a dedicated leader like Jesse, who has shown a focus and attention to the balanced management of BLM lands within New Mexico, and to the unique issues that our state's public lands face,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"New Mexico's unique landscape, history, and culture is reflected in the state's public lands. We would encourage you to select an individual to fill the New Mexico State Director position who is familiar with the state and the unique issues that BLM land managers and BLM land users face.\"  Those unique issues include the importance of balancing public lands management to support oil, gas and mineral leasing, grazing, recreation and conservation; as well as the needs of diverse communities, including Native Americans, and Spanish Land Grant Communities. Public lands also are critical to New Mexico's economy. In fiscal year 2012, they supported more than 85,000 jobs and boosted the economy by more than $7.8 billion.  \"We again applaud Jesse for his tireless work in balancing the complex issues that face New Mexico's public lands,\" the letter concludes. \"He will be a tough act for anyone to follow, but we respectfully request your careful consideration in selecting a new State Director who will be equally capable of managing New Mexico's public lands.\" A copy of the letter is available HERE and below:\nThe Honorable Neil Kornze  Director  U.S. Bureau of Land Management  1849 C Street, NW  Washington, DC 20240-0001\nDear Director Kornze:\nSince February of 2012, Jesse Juen has led the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in our state as the BLM New Mexico State Director.  We have been fortunate to have a dedicated leader like Jesse, who has shown a focus and attention to the balanced management of BLM lands within New Mexico, and to the unique issues that our state's public lands face.  We express our sincere appreciation for his public service and the work of his capable staff, and we wish him the best in his upcoming retirement.\nAs we look forward to the coming year, we would request your careful consideration of the BLM New Mexico State Director position.  As you know, New Mexico's unique landscape, history, and culture is reflected in the state's public lands.  We would encourage you to select an individual to fill the New Mexico State Director position who is familiar with the state and the unique issues that BLM land managers and BLM land users face.\nThe New Mexico State Director is responsible for the management of more than 13.4 million acres of public lands and 26 million acres of federal oil, natural gas, and minerals.  The director also manages and sets the priorities for a team of more than 850 employees.  According to your agency's own statistics, in fiscal year 2012, the BLM's management of the public lands in New Mexico has supported more than 85,000 jobs and boosted the economy by more than $7.8 billion.  Last year, New Mexico's share of oil and gas revenue on public lands was over $470 million.  The BLM State Director position is extremely important position for New Mexico, a position that demands a strong leader who is knowledgeable of oil and gas leasing, endangered species, recreation, ranching, and the traditional use issues that the many Native American and Spanish Land Grant communities face.\nWe again applaud Jesse for his tireless work in balancing the complex issues that face New Mexico's public lands.  He will be a tough act for anyone to follow, but we respectfully request your careful consideration in selecting a new State Director who will be equally capable of managing New Mexico's public lands.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wind-energy-could-slow-global-warming-but-tax-credits-needed-udall-and-advocates-say", "Wind Energy Could Slow Global Warming, but Tax Credits Needed, Udall and Advocates Say", "2014-12-04", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 04, 2014\n\t\t\t Wind Energy Could Slow Global Warming, but Tax Credits Needed, Udall and Advocates Say \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON-- Expanding wind power across the country could cut as much global warming pollution as 254 coal plants produce in a year, according to a new report, but congressional action is needed to make that expansion a reality, U.S. Senator Tom Udall and other clean energy advocates said today.\n\"Speeding the development of pollution-free wind energy will slow global warming,\" said Anna Aurilio, global warming solutions program director for Environment America. \"But Congress needs to invest now in clean air and a healthy planet.\"\nThe Environment America Research & Policy Center analysis, More Wind, Less Warming, comes as Congress debates renewing tax incentives that have spurred the nation's growth in wind power, which in 2013 supplied enough energy to power more than 15 million homes.\nClean energy champions Udall and Ed Markey (D-MA), and the American Wind Energy Association joined Environment America in the Capitol Visitors Center to release the report and call for action.\n\"New Mexico is at the eye of the storm when it comes to the impacts of climate change. But while global warming is a threat we must fight, it's also a tremendous opportunity to invest in clean energy jobs of the future, \" said U.S. Sen. Udall of New Mexico. \"Wind has huge potential -- not only is it carbon free, it's abundant in New Mexico, and it uses almost no water. Now is the time for Congress to make a commitment to fight climate change and help create jobs of the future by extending the wind production tax credit - not just for one year but long enough for this important industry to meet its full potential.\"\nIf wind power kept its recent pace of development, it could supply 30 percent of the nation's electricity needs by 2030, providing more than enough carbon reductions to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's proposed Clean Power Plan, and a third of the reductions the U.S. committed to achieving in its agreement with China.\n\"When we support clean energy development, we're promoting job creation that will help all of creation. That's because good clean energy policy is good climate policy, and helps us be the leader in developing the technologies that power our economy and protect our environment,\" said U.S. Sen. Markey of Massachusetts. \"America's wind energy industry is the future of our economy, and we need to invest in the fuels of the future, not the industries of the past.\"\nAmerica has the potential to power itself 10 times over with wind that blows both over land and off the coast.  Offshore wind development, which is in its nascent stages in the U.S., is critical to fulfilling the nation's full promise of wind energy, the report said.\nYesterday the U.S. House overwhelmingly adopted a plan to renew vital wind energy tax credits retroactively through the end of 2014, which advocates said was virtually meaningless. To ramp up wind power development and avoid massive job loss, the incentives for wind power projects should be renewed at least through 2015, they said.\n\"Congress needs to provide stability so that American workers can make more of our own energy here at home, and reduce carbon pollution as rapidly and cheaply as possible,\" said Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association. \"We need to get out of short-term thinking, including three-week extensions of the policy that is critical to building more wind energy, the Production Tax Credit. That's why we are urging the Senate today to stand up for renewable energy, vote for the EXPIRE Act, and extend the PTC at least through 2015, before considering a phase-out that would provide a glide path for the industry to keep scaling up.\"\n\"Wind power can replace the dirty energy sources of the past and the pollution that comes with them,\" Aurilio with Environment America concluded. \"But Congress needs to act now to ensure a clean energy future.\"\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1810", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Landmark Conservation and Energy Bills In End of Year Package [press_release]", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 03, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Secure Landmark Conservation and Energy Bills In End of Year Package \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u00a0- Several landmark conservation and energy bills championed by U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) are included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was finalized last night. The critical annual bill is expected to be voted on by the House and Senate before the end of the year.\nThe New Mexico senators successfully fought to include provisions to designate the Columbine-Hondo as wilderness, transition the Valles Caldera National Preserve to new management to increase public access, and establish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park.  Additionally, a measure to extend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards was also included in the bill language.\nThese provisions have received overwhelming support from the community and are in a strong position to become law.\n\"This is an exciting step - we're extremely close to the finish line and being able to protect these beautiful New Mexico landscapes for generations to come,\" Udall said. \"These bills are vital for our economy. Designating the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness, increasing access to Valles Caldera, and dedicating a Manhattan Project historical park will help expand tourism and create jobs, while renewing the BLM permitting program is critical to energy development in Northwestern and Southeastern New Mexico. I want to thank all of the stakeholders and local communities who have worked hard on these proposals for so long - as well as Senator Heinrich who has been a strong partner pushing to get them through the Senate.\"\n\"We are closer than ever to making historic gains in protecting some of New Mexico's most treasured landscapes. From designating the Columbine-Hondo as wilderness, increasing public access to the Valles Caldera, and establishing the Manhattan National Historical Park, to streamlining the oil and gas drilling permit process, these provisions will have a significant impact on growing our economy,\" Heinrich said, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. \"Thanks to years of effort and support from the local communities, our state will have new destinations for families and visitors to enjoy. And cooperation among federal agencies and businesses will help boost job creation and expand domestic energy production.\"\nSenators Udall and Heinrich fought to include provisions in the FY2015 NDAA that would:\nDesignate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County, New Mexico as wilderness. Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. The Columbine-Hondo is one of the most treasured places in the state and a key attraction for the local tourism economy. The Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Act (S. 776) would designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness. The bill would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River. VIDEO: Local residents discuss why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them. \u00a0Click here for text. \u00a0Click here for map.\nTransition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access. The Valles Caldera National Preserve Management Act (S. 285) would transfer management of the Preserve from the current Board of Trustees to the National Park Service (NPS) under a preserve model. Access for hunting and fishing would be mandated under the legislation. The proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, veterans organizations, business owners, and elected officials. Click here for text.\u00a0Click here for map.\nEstablish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act (S. 507) would establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park would conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world's first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society. Click here for text.\nExtend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act (S. 2440) would extend a pilot program that has helped BLM balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management in New Mexico and other parts of the West. The pilot program has helped streamline operations in BLM field offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, New Mexico. Click here for text.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1811", "Udall Secures Provisions in NDAA to Improve Tech Transfer at New Mexico's National Labs, Begin Federal IT Reform [press_release]", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 03, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Secures Provisions in NDAA to Improve Tech Transfer at New Mexico's National Labs, Begin Federal IT Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall today announced that he has successfully pushed for key reforms to fund technology transfer at New Mexico's national laboratories and upgrade how the federal government buys and manages information technology (IT) as part of a critical national defense bill.  As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Udall has championed tech transfer and IT reform, and the inclusion of his provisions in the end-of-year National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) will help researchers spin off new businesses from New Mexico's national labs and modernize the government's technology systems while saving billions of taxpayers' dollars.\n\"By directing the Department of Energy to prioritize spending on technology transfer from our national labs, my provisions will support Los Alamos and Sandia labs as they move innovation from the lab bench to the marketplace,\" Udall said of the provision on technology transfer.\nRegarding federal IT reform, Udall added: \"It's past time to develop federal information technology (IT) systems for the 21st century, and the provisions included in this bill constitute the first major overhaul of government IT procurement in more than a decade. When enacted, these reforms will cut waste to save New Mexico taxpayers' money and help avoid IT failures like the initial rollout of the healthcare.gov website.\"  Federal IT Reform  The federal government spends about $80 billion on information technology annually. At a May 2014 Senate hearing chaired by Udall, the Government Accountability Office announced that at least 154 major federal IT investments totaling $10.4 billion are at risk and in need of management attention. In December 2013, Udall and Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced a bipartisan bill to overhaul the IT procurement process, which served as the basis for the reforms announced today as part of the NDAA. The provisions included in the NDAA would give additional responsibilities to Chief Information Officers of governmental agencies, enhance transparency and improve risk management in IT investments, create a government-wide software purchasing program and encourage federal data center consolidation.\nTech Transfer  Udall's tech transfer amendment in the NDAA clarifies and strengthens existing law related to tech transfer funding.  The new language directs DOE to prioritize spending on energy technology commercialization from our national laboratories, and addresses issues also noted by the DOE Inspector General (IG). In a February 2014 report, the IG found that \"instead of identifying and directing funds for the Commercialization Fund to the achievement of specified goals, the Department deployed a retrospective approach\" by merely classifying existing spending as technology transfer to meet the Congressional requirement from the 2005 Energy Policy Act.  Udall's amendment further instructs DOE to take a proactive approach to plan for additional tech transfer activities, thus ensuring that dedicated funds are put to use. In March 2014, Udall introduced the Accelerating Technology Transfer to Advance Innovation for the Nation (ATTAIN) Act to further improve DOE's tech transfer program, and will continue to push for passage of this broader legislation. The NDAA, which has been negotiated by the House and Senate, was introduced in the House on Tuesday, with a vote expected this week. The Senate is expected to take up the measure next week.\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-secures-key-provisions-in-defense-authorization-act-to-strengthen-nm-military-bases-national-security", "Heinrich Secures Key Provisions In Defense Authorization Act To Strengthen N.M. Military Bases, National Security", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Secures Key Provisions In Defense Authorization Act To Strengthen N.M. Military Bases, National Security\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 3, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) successfully included several key provisions in the fiscal year 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to strengthen national security and New Mexico's military bases, and boost the economy. The NDAA sets the Department of Defense (DOD) spending levels and policies for the upcoming fiscal year.\r\n\"New Mexico's military bases are home to thousands of men and women who dedicate their lives to the safety and security of our great nation,\" said Sen. Heinrich. \"This bill supports their work by strengthening the partnership between the film industry and New Mexico's military ranges, maintaining the formerly endangered ORS mission at Kirtland Air Force Base, and funding military construction projects that serve our servicemen and women while putting our building trades sector to work. New Mexico is at the forefront of protecting our nation and spurring innovation, and these investments will ensure that tradition continues.\"\r\nHeinrich fought to include the following provisions in the FY15 NDAA:\r\nMilitary Equitable Reimbursement Act (S. 1669): Senator Heinrich introduced a bill with Senator Vitter (R-La.) that would allow the DOD to retain payments for costs incurred during support of non-governmental film productions.\u00a0 Currently, DOD units can accept reimbursement for expenses associated with the use of military assets for production.\u00a0 However, due to ambiguity in existing law, there is uncertainty about whether DOD components, including installations like White Sands Missile Range, are eligible to keep these payments.\u00a0 As a result of Senator Heinrich's legislation, military installations will be able to retain payment.\r\nOperationally Responsive Space (ORS): Authorizes $20 million to continue the ORS program at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque.\u00a0 Since elected to Congress, Senator Heinrich has worked to keep the ORS office at Kirtland Air Force Base and continue small satellite research and development by rejecting multiple proposed terminations. He's been an effective advocate for maintaining funding and supporting additional missions for ORS.\u00a0 In 2014, the Air Force selected a payload for the ORS-5 satellite, Space Situational Awareness, and funding is included in the NDAA to continue that program in FY15.\u00a0 Senator Heinrich has also sent a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James requesting funds in FY16.\r\nAir Force T-1A Aircraft Modernization/Replacement: Senator Heinrich worked with Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) to support language in the NDAA requiring a report on the options to modernize or replace the Air Force's aging fleet of 178 T-1A Jayhawks.\u00a0 Pilot training is critical for maintaining the most advanced and capable Air Force in the world, and Very Lightweight Jets have the potential to provide a state-of-the-art training platform while saving significant taxpayer dollars-all while creating good-paying manufacturing jobs in New Mexico. Senator Heinrich also sent a letter to Air Force this year in support of Very Lightweight Jets.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-staff-to-hold-mobile-office-hours-in-fort-sumner-dec-5-2014", "Heinrich Staff To Hold Mobile Office Hours In Fort Sumner", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Staff To Hold Mobile Office Hours In Fort Sumner\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 3, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tROSWELL, N.M. - In an ongoing effort to provide top-notch constituent service, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's (D-N.M.) staff will hold Mobile Office Hours in Fort Sumner on Friday, December 5, 2014. Staff will be on hand to assist residents who have questions regarding Social Security benefits, Medicare, immigration, veterans benefits, student loans, and other federal programs. All are encouraged to attend.\r\nConstituents who are not able to attend Mobile Office Hours are encouraged to visit the\u00a0Helping You\u00a0section of Senator Heinrich's\u00a0online office\u00a0at\u00a0www.Heinrich.Senate.Gov.\u00a0\r\nFort Sumner - Friday, December 5, 2014  WHO:\u00a0 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's Staff  WHAT:\u00a0\u00a0Mobile Office Hours  WHEN:\u00a0 From 10 to 11 a.m.  WHERE:\u00a0De Baca Family Practice Clinic Conference Room, 546 N. 10th Street, Fort Sumner, N.M. 88119  QUESTIONS:\u00a0\u00a0Contact Senator Heinrich's\u00a0Roswell Office at (575) 622-7113", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-secure-landmark-conservation-and-energy-bills-in-end-of-year-package", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Landmark Conservation and Energy Bills In End of Year Package", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 03, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Secure Landmark Conservation and Energy Bills In End of Year Package \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - Several landmark conservation and energy bills championed by U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) are included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was finalized last night. The critical annual bill is expected to be voted on by the House and Senate before the end of the year.\nThe New Mexico senators successfully fought to include provisions to designate the Columbine-Hondo as wilderness, transition the Valles Caldera National Preserve to new management to increase public access, and establish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park.  Additionally, a measure to extend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards was also included in the bill language.\nThese provisions have received overwhelming support from the community and are in a strong position to become law.\n\"This is an exciting step - we're extremely close to the finish line and being able to protect these beautiful New Mexico landscapes for generations to come,\" Udall said. \"These bills are vital for our economy. Designating the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness, increasing access to Valles Caldera, and dedicating a Manhattan Project historical park will help expand tourism and create jobs, while renewing the BLM permitting program is critical to energy development in Northwestern and Southeastern New Mexico. I want to thank all of the stakeholders and local communities who have worked hard on these proposals for so long - as well as Senator Heinrich who has been a strong partner pushing to get them through the Senate.\"\n\"We are closer than ever to making historic gains in protecting some of New Mexico's most treasured landscapes. From designating the Columbine-Hondo as wilderness, increasing public access to the Valles Caldera, and establishing the Manhattan National Historical Park, to streamlining the oil and gas drilling permit process, these provisions will have a significant impact on growing our economy,\" Heinrich said, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. \"Thanks to years of effort and support from the local communities, our state will have new destinations for families and visitors to enjoy. And cooperation among federal agencies and businesses will help boost job creation and expand domestic energy production.\"\nSenators Udall and Heinrich fought to include provisions in the FY2015 NDAA that would:\nDesignate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County, New Mexico as wilderness. Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. The Columbine-Hondo is one of the most treasured places in the state and a key attraction for the local tourism economy. The Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Act (S. 776) would designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness. The bill would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River. VIDEO: Local residents discuss why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them. Click here for text. Click here for map.\nTransition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access. The Valles Caldera National Preserve Management Act (S. 285) would transfer management of the Preserve from the current Board of Trustees to the National Park Service (NPS) under a preserve model. Access for hunting and fishing would be mandated under the legislation. The proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, veterans organizations, business owners, and elected officials. Click here for text.Click here for map.\nEstablish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act (S. 507) would establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park would conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world's first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society. Click here for text.\nExtend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards. The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act (S. 2440) would extend a pilot program that has helped BLM balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management in New Mexico and other parts of the West. The pilot program has helped streamline operations in BLM field offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, New Mexico. Click here for text.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-secures-provisions-in-ndaa-to-improve-tech-transfer-at-new-mexico-and-039s-national-labs-begin-federal-it-reform", "Udall Secures Provisions in NDAA to Improve Tech Transfer at New Mexico's National Labs, Begin Federal IT Reform", "2014-12-03", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 03, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Secures Provisions in NDAA to Improve Tech Transfer at New Mexico's National Labs, Begin Federal IT Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall today announced that he has successfully pushed for key reforms to fund technology transfer at New Mexico's national laboratories and upgrade how the federal government buys and manages information technology (IT) as part of a critical national defense bill.  As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Udall has championed tech transfer and IT reform, and the inclusion of his provisions in the end-of-year National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) will help researchers spin off new businesses from New Mexico's national labs and modernize the government's technology systems while saving billions of taxpayers' dollars.\n\"By directing the Department of Energy to prioritize spending on technology transfer from our national labs, my provisions will support Los Alamos and Sandia labs as they move innovation from the lab bench to the marketplace,\" Udall said of the provision on technology transfer.\nRegarding federal IT reform, Udall added: \"It's past time to develop federal information technology (IT) systems for the 21st century, and the provisions included in this bill constitute the first major overhaul of government IT procurement in more than a decade. When enacted, these reforms will cut waste to save New Mexico taxpayers' money and help avoid IT failures like the initial rollout of the healthcare.gov website.\"  Federal IT Reform  The federal government spends about $80 billion on information technology annually. At a May 2014 Senate hearing chaired by Udall, the Government Accountability Office announced that at least 154 major federal IT investments totaling $10.4 billion are at risk and in need of management attention. In December 2013, Udall and Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced a bipartisan bill to overhaul the IT procurement process, which served as the basis for the reforms announced today as part of the NDAA. The provisions included in the NDAA would give additional responsibilities to Chief Information Officers of governmental agencies, enhance transparency and improve risk management in IT investments, create a government-wide software purchasing program and encourage federal data center consolidation.\nTech Transfer  Udall's tech transfer amendment in the NDAA clarifies and strengthens existing law related to tech transfer funding.  The new language directs DOE to prioritize spending on energy technology commercialization from our national laboratories, and addresses issues also noted by the DOE Inspector General (IG). In a February 2014 report, the IG found that \"instead of identifying and directing funds for the Commercialization Fund to the achievement of specified goals, the Department deployed a retrospective approach\" by merely classifying existing spending as technology transfer to meet the Congressional requirement from the 2005 Energy Policy Act.  Udall's amendment further instructs DOE to take a proactive approach to plan for additional tech transfer activities, thus ensuring that dedicated funds are put to use. In March 2014, Udall introduced the Accelerating Technology Transfer to Advance Innovation for the Nation (ATTAIN) Act to further improve DOE's tech transfer program, and will continue to push for passage of this broader legislation. The NDAA, which has been negotiated by the House and Senate, was introduced in the House on Tuesday, with a vote expected this week. The Senate is expected to take up the measure next week.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1809", "Udall Recruiting Spring Interns for New Mexico Offices [press_release]", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 02, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Recruiting Spring Interns for New Mexico Offices \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Positions available in Albuquerque, Carlsbad, Las Cruces, Portales and Santa Fe offices\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall invites New Mexico college students interested in gaining legislative or press relations experience to apply for spring semester internships in his Albuquerque, Carlsbad, Las Cruces, Portales and Santa Fe offices.  For more information and to apply for an internship, please visit http://www.tomudall.senate.gov/internships. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but students are encouraged to submit their applications early.  \"Congressional internships provide a unique and engaging opportunity for students to develop their perspective on the federal government and policy,\" Udall said. \"Interns play a vital role in the daily operations of my offices, and I invite college students interested in gaining insight into the inner-workings of Congress or pursuing a career in public service to apply.\"  Students of all majors are welcome to apply and internships in any of Udall's offices may count toward college credit. Students should check with their respective college or university for requirements.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/advisory-heinrich-to-deliver-keynote-at-quality-of-life-initiative-symposium-in-santa-fe", "ADVISORY: Heinrich To Deliver Keynote At Quality Of Life Initiative Symposium In Santa Fe", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ADVISORY: Heinrich To Deliver Keynote At Quality Of Life Initiative Symposium In Santa Fe\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 2, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) will deliver the keynote address to kick off the second annual Quality of Life Initiative Symposium on Friday, December 5, 2014 at 1:10 p.m. MT at the Santa Fe Community College.\u00a0The two-day symposium, entitled, \"Education, Engagement, Empowerment, Equity,\" will focus on ways the community can strengthen their efforts to improve the quality of life in Santa Fe's south side.\u00a0 \u00a0\r\nSenator Heinrich will be joined by local leaders, including Santa Fe City Councilors Carmichael Dominguez and Chris Rivera, and health, education, food access, transportation, and youth and teen service advocates.\u00a0\r\nThe Quality of Life Initiative brings together service providers, nonprofits, employers, educators, and residents to address the needs of Santa Fe's south side and discuss issues most important to the community. Following a series of community listening sessions, the initiative has focused its work on a wide-range of areas including access to affordable and healthy foods, transportation and walkability, access to quality health care, youth and teen services, veterans' issues, and parks and recreation.\u00a0Senator Heinrich's office has played an integral role in the initiative by organizing events aimed at helping to promote civic engagement, collaborative governance, and better alignment between service providers in the area. In February, Senator Heinrich met with the Quality of Life Initiative steering committee at La Familia Medical Center's Southside Clinic in Santa Fe where they discussed how best to strengthen the initiative's effort to help the community.\r\nThis two-day symposium is free and open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend.\u00a0Information will be available in English and Spanish.\u00a0Events will include free food, panel discussions, group work sessions, and teen and youth support dialogues. Staff from the Ocotillo Institute and Do\u00f1a Ana County residents will present their work using the Empowerment Congress model to address quality of life and social justice issues in the Colonias. The Empowerment Congress, founded in 1992 in Los Angeles, California, promotes partnership between community members, business leaders, and faith-based organizations to address local issues and connect residents with public resources.\r\nMembers of the media interested in attending should email press@heinrich.senate.gov or call (202) 228-1578.\r\nSanta Fe - Friday, December 5, 2014   WHAT: \u00a0Second Annual Quality of Life Initiative Symposium   WHEN:\u00a0 Noon to 5 p.m. MT (Senator\u00a0 Heinrich will deliver the keynote address at approximately 1:10 p.m. MT)   WHERE:\u00a0 Santa Fe Community College, Jemez Room 6401 Richards Ave, Santa Fe, N.M. 87508\r\nSanta Fe - Saturday, December 6, 2014   WHAT: \u00a0Second Annual Quality of Life Initiative Symposium: Southside Youth and Teen Summit   WHEN: \u00a09:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. MT   WHERE:\u00a0 Zona del Sol Youth and Family Center 6601 Jaguar Drive, Santa Fe, N.M. 87507", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-secure-landmark-conservation-and-energy-bills-in-end-of-year-package", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Landmark Conservation and Energy Bills In End of Year Package", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Secure Landmark Conservation and Energy Bills In End of Year Package\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 2, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - Several landmark conservation and energy bills championed by\u00a0U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.)\u00a0and\u00a0Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.)\u00a0are included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was finalized today. The critical annual bill is expected to be voted on by the House and Senate before the end of the year.\r\n\r\nThe New Mexico senators successfully fought to include provisions to designate the Columbine-Hondo as wilderness, transition the Valles Caldera National Preserve to new management to increase public access, and establish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. \u00a0Additionally, a measure to extend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards was also included in the bill language.\r\nThese provisions have received overwhelming support from the community and are in a strong position to become law.\r\n\"This is an exciting step \u2014 we're extremely close to the finish line and being able to protect these beautiful New Mexico landscapes for generations to come,\"\u00a0Udall said. \"These bills are vital for our economy. Designating the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness, increasing access to Valles Caldera, and dedicating a Manhattan Project historical park will help expand tourism and create jobs, while renewing the BLM permitting program is critical to energy development in Northwestern and Southeastern New Mexico. I want to thank all of the stakeholders and local communities who have worked hard on these proposals for so long \u2014 as well as Senator Heinrich who has been a strong partner pushing to get them through the Senate.\"\r\n\"We are closer than ever to making historic gains in protecting some of New Mexico's most treasured landscapes. From designating the Columbine-Hondo as wilderness, increasing public access to the Valles Caldera, and establishing the Manhattan National Historical Park, to streamlining the oil and gas drilling permit process, these provisions will have a significant impact on growing our economy,\"\u00a0Heinrich said, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. \"Thanks to years of effort and support from the local communities, our state will have new destinations for families and visitors to enjoy. And cooperation among federal agencies and businesses will help boost job creation and expand domestic energy production.\"\r\nSenators Udall and Heinrich fought to include provisions in the FY2015 NDAA that would:\r\nDesignate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County, New Mexico as wilderness.\u00a0Located in the Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, the Columbine-Hondo has been managed as a Wilderness Study Area since 1980. The Columbine-Hondo is one of the most treasured places in the state and a key attraction for the local tourism economy. The Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Act (S. 776) would designate the Columbine-Hondo area in Taos County as wilderness. The bill would also expand the Wheeler Peak Wilderness by approximately 650 acres while modifying a boundary in order to create a loop trail accessible by mountain bikes along the Lost Lake trail from Taos Ski Valley to the East Fork trail to Red River.\u00a0VIDEO: Local residents discuss why they support permanently protecting the Columbine-Hondo and what the area means to them.\r\nTransition the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico to new management to increase public access.\u00a0The Valles Caldera National Preserve Management Act (S. 285) would transfer management of the Preserve from the current Board of Trustees to the National Park Service (NPS) under a preserve model. Access\u00a0for hunting and fishing would be mandated under the legislation. The proposal was developed after extensive input from local residents, sportsmen, veterans organizations, business owners, and elected officials.\r\nEstablish the Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Los Alamos.\u00a0The\u00a0Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act\u00a0(S. 507)\u00a0would establish three different educational sites in Los Alamos, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. The park would conserve historic sites and artifacts that played a key role in the dawn of the nuclear era while telling the story of the creation of the world\u2019s first atomic bomb and exploring its consequences for society.\u00a0\r\nExtend a pilot program that has helped the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) streamline the oil and gas drilling permit process while strengthening a review system that helps meet environmental and safety standards.\u00a0The BLM Permit Processing Improvement Act (S. 2440) would extend a pilot program that has helped BLM balance complex demands, including oil and gas permitting and environmental management in New Mexico and other parts of the West. The pilot program has helped streamline operations in BLM field offices in Farmington and Carlsbad, New Mexico.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-recruiting-spring-interns-for-new-mexico-offices", "Udall Recruiting Spring Interns for New Mexico Offices", "2014-12-02", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 02, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Recruiting Spring Interns for New Mexico Offices \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Positions available in Albuquerque, Carlsbad, Las Cruces, Portales and Santa Fe offices\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall invites New Mexico college students interested in gaining legislative or press relations experience to apply for spring semester internships in his Albuquerque, Carlsbad, Las Cruces, Portales and Santa Fe offices.  For more information and to apply for an internship, please visit http://www.tomudall.senate.gov/internships. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but students are encouraged to submit their applications early.  \"Congressional internships provide a unique and engaging opportunity for students to develop their perspective on the federal government and policy,\" Udall said. \"Interns play a vital role in the daily operations of my offices, and I invite college students interested in gaining insight into the inner-workings of Congress or pursuing a career in public service to apply.\"  Students of all majors are welcome to apply and internships in any of Udall's offices may count toward college credit. Students should check with their respective college or university for requirements.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1808", "Udall, Crapo Lead Bipartisan Coalition on PILT/SRS Funding for Critical Local Government Services [press_release]", "2014-12-01", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 01, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Crapo Lead Bipartisan Coalition on PILT/SRS Funding for Critical Local Government Services \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Lawmakers request full funding in end-of-year legislation\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-NM) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) led a bipartisan coalition urging Senate leaders to fully fund the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and Secure Rural Schools (SRS) in any end-of-year legislation.  PILT provides federal payments to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes because of nontaxable federal land within their boundaries, and these resources are critical to rural counties across the country, which use the funding to provide services, such as police, fire protection, and emergency response. The SRS program, which benefits rural counties near national forests, supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects. Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents.  Funding for both PILT and SRS has expired, and unless the programs are renewed, counties across the country will see major budget cuts. Annually, PILT and SRS combined provide more than $700 million to rural counties across the country.  \"Moving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands,\" the lawmakers wrote to Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. \"As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.\"\nThe lawmakers added, \"In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.\"\nIn addition to Udall and Crapo, the letter was signed by Sens. Ron Wyden, (D-OR), Carl Levin (D-MI), Jay Rockefeller (D-W. Va.), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jim Risch (R-ID), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.), Jon Tester (D-MT), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Mark Begich (D-AK), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Angus King (I-ME), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Dean Heller (R-NV), Michael Enzi (R-WY), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), John Boozman (R-AR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), John Walsh (D-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mark Pryor (D-AR), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Mark Udall (D-CO), and James Inhofe (R-OK).\nAfter years of funding PILT inconsistently, Congress in 2008 fully and automatically funded PILT for five years. In a 2012 transportation bill, full funding was extended for another year, leaving the future beyond 2013 uncertain. Earlier this year, Udall and Crapo successfully pushed for PILT funding to be included in the Farm Bill, and have continued to be strong advocates for steady, full funding.  In October 2013, Congress passed a one year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act as part of the Helium Stewardship Act. Udall and Crapo have advocated for reliable, full funding of the PILT and SRS programs to provide local communities certainty of these resources for long-term planning. The full text of the letter is available below and HERE.\n \nNovember 24, 2014\nThe Honorable Harry ReidMajority LeaderUnited States Senate522 Hart Senate Office BuildingWashington, DC  20510\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnellMinority LeaderUnited States Senate317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC  20510\nDear Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell:\nWe write to request that full funding of the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) program be included in any end-of-year legislation likely to pass in the Senate and House.  We greatly appreciate your attention to these programs in previous years and would welcome the opportunity to work with you to ensure that a solution be in place before the end of the 113th Congress for these payments to be funded and paid during at least Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15).\nThe PILT program provides critical resources to nearly 1,900 counties in 49 states and 3 U.S. territories.  It was created in 1976 to help offset losses to local governments from the presence of non-taxable federal lands.  Property taxes fund county governments allowing them to provide essential services such as law enforcement, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, education, and health services for local communities.  A fully-funded PILT program helps to ensure that counties that house federal lands can continue to provide these essential services.  The SRS program reaches over 775 rural counties and 4,400 schools located near national forests throughout the country. SRS payments support public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects.  Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents.\nMoving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands.  As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.  In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.  We look forward to working with you to resolve this pressing issue facing our communities in FY15 and in the coming years.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-calls-for-full-funding-of-pilt-srs-for-critical-local-government-services", "Heinrich Calls For Full Funding Of PILT, SRS For Critical Local Government Services", "2014-12-01", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Calls For Full Funding Of PILT, SRS For Critical Local Government Services\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 1, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 1, 2014) -\u00a0U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) joined a bipartisan coalition urging Senate leaders to fully fund the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and Secure Rural Schools (SRS) in any end-of-year legislation. \"Moving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands,\" the lawmakers wrote to Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. \"As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.\" PILT provides federal payments to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes because of nontaxable federal land within their boundaries, and these resources are critical to rural counties across the country, which use the funding to provide services, such as police, fire protection, and emergency response. The SRS program, which benefits rural counties near national forests, supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects. Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents. Funding for both PILT and SRS has expired, and unless the programs are renewed, counties across the country will see major budget cuts. Annually, PILT and SRS combined provide more than $700 million to rural counties across the country. The letter, led by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.), was also signed by Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Ron Wyden, (D-OR) Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Carl Levin (D-MI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Jon Tester (D-MT), Mark Begich (D-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Michael Enzi (R-WY), John Boozman (R-AK), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Walsh (D-MT), Mark Pryor (D-AK), Ed Markey (D-MA), Mark Udall (D-CO), Dean Heller (R-NV), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Tim Johnson (D-SD), and James Inhofe (R-OK). The full text of the letter is below and HERE: November 24, 2014 The Honorable Harry Reid   Majority Leader   United States Senate   522 Hart Senate Office Building   Washington, DC\u00a0 20510 The Honorable Mitch McConnell   Minority Leader   United States Senate   317 Russell Senate Office Building   Washington, DC\u00a0 20510 Dear Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell: We write to request that full funding of the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) program be included in any end-of-year legislation likely to pass in the Senate and House.\u00a0 We greatly appreciate your attention to these programs in previous years and would welcome the opportunity to work with you to ensure that a solution be in place before the end of the 113th Congress for these payments to be funded and paid during at least Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15). The PILT program provides critical resources to nearly 1,900 counties in 49 states and 3 U.S. territories.\u00a0 It was created in 1976 to help offset losses to local governments from the presence of non-taxable federal lands.\u00a0 Property taxes fund county governments allowing them to provide essential services such as law enforcement, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, education, and health services for local communities.\u00a0 A fully-funded PILT program helps to ensure that counties that house federal lands can continue to provide these essential services.  The SRS program reaches over 775 rural counties and 4,400 schools located near national forests throughout the country. SRS payments support public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects.\u00a0 Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents. Moving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands.\u00a0 As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.\u00a0 In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.\u00a0 We look forward to working with you to resolve this pressing issue facing our communities in FY15 and in the coming years.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-crapo-lead-bipartisan-coalition-on-pilt/srs-funding-for-critical-local-government-services", "Udall, Crapo Lead Bipartisan Coalition on PILT/SRS Funding for Critical Local Government Services", "2014-12-01", "2014", "2014-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 01, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Crapo Lead Bipartisan Coalition on PILT/SRS Funding for Critical Local Government Services \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Lawmakers request full funding in end-of-year legislation\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-NM) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) led a bipartisan coalition urging Senate leaders to fully fund the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and Secure Rural Schools (SRS) in any end-of-year legislation.  PILT provides federal payments to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes because of nontaxable federal land within their boundaries, and these resources are critical to rural counties across the country, which use the funding to provide services, such as police, fire protection, and emergency response. The SRS program, which benefits rural counties near national forests, supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects. Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents.  Funding for both PILT and SRS has expired, and unless the programs are renewed, counties across the country will see major budget cuts. Annually, PILT and SRS combined provide more than $700 million to rural counties across the country.  \"Moving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands,\" the lawmakers wrote to Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. \"As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.\"\nThe lawmakers added, \"In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.\"\nIn addition to Udall and Crapo, the letter was signed by Sens. Ron Wyden, (D-OR), Carl Levin (D-MI), Jay Rockefeller (D-W. Va.), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jim Risch (R-ID), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.), Jon Tester (D-MT), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Mark Begich (D-AK), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Angus King (I-ME), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Dean Heller (R-NV), Michael Enzi (R-WY), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), John Boozman (R-AR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), John Walsh (D-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mark Pryor (D-AR), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Mark Udall (D-CO), and James Inhofe (R-OK).\nAfter years of funding PILT inconsistently, Congress in 2008 fully and automatically funded PILT for five years. In a 2012 transportation bill, full funding was extended for another year, leaving the future beyond 2013 uncertain. Earlier this year, Udall and Crapo successfully pushed for PILT funding to be included in the Farm Bill, and have continued to be strong advocates for steady, full funding.  In October 2013, Congress passed a one year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act as part of the Helium Stewardship Act. Udall and Crapo have advocated for reliable, full funding of the PILT and SRS programs to provide local communities certainty of these resources for long-term planning. The full text of the letter is available below and HERE.\n \nNovember 24, 2014\nThe Honorable Harry ReidMajority LeaderUnited States Senate522 Hart Senate Office BuildingWashington, DC  20510\nThe Honorable Mitch McConnellMinority LeaderUnited States Senate317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC  20510\nDear Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell:\nWe write to request that full funding of the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) program be included in any end-of-year legislation likely to pass in the Senate and House.  We greatly appreciate your attention to these programs in previous years and would welcome the opportunity to work with you to ensure that a solution be in place before the end of the 113th Congress for these payments to be funded and paid during at least Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15).\nThe PILT program provides critical resources to nearly 1,900 counties in 49 states and 3 U.S. territories.  It was created in 1976 to help offset losses to local governments from the presence of non-taxable federal lands.  Property taxes fund county governments allowing them to provide essential services such as law enforcement, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, education, and health services for local communities.  A fully-funded PILT program helps to ensure that counties that house federal lands can continue to provide these essential services.  The SRS program reaches over 775 rural counties and 4,400 schools located near national forests throughout the country. SRS payments support public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects.  Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents.\nMoving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands.  As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.  In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.  We look forward to working with you to resolve this pressing issue facing our communities in FY15 and in the coming years.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/in-the-news/albuquerque-journal-nm-needs-to-focus-on-clean-energy", "Albuquerque Journal: NM needs to focus on clean energy", "2014-11-30", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque Journal: NM needs to focus on clean energy\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\u00a0\r\n                    U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Sunday, November 30, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Climate change is one of the greatest economic challenges, and opportunities, of this century. We can deny that our climate is warming, and remain stuck behind our economic competitors in the developed \u2013 and increasingly, in the developing \u2013 world. Or we can move forward with a clean energy economy that will create jobs and protect the environment, with New Mexico leading the way.\r\nWe firmly believe that we must follow the latter path. We can\u2019t stick our heads in the sand and turn our backs on the scientists who say we must take action now to reduce global warming pollution. We believe that ignoring climate change is not only dangerous for our health, it is disastrous for our economy.\r\nLast week, we both voted against a highly politicized bill authorizing construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. Rather than mandating the construction of oil pipelines for private foreign corporations, Congress should be focused on supporting domestic energy production that creates permanent American jobs.\r\nFirst, let\u2019s be clear. Climate change is real. New Mexico is at the eye of the storm, experiencing historic drought, severe flooding when it does rain and increasingly frequent wildfires. If we do nothing, it will get worse. According to a study at Los Alamos National Laboratory, by 2050 we may not have any forests left in our state. It will be as if New Mexico is dragged 300 miles to the South, to the middle of the Chihuahuan Desert.\r\nWe\u2019re already seeing the impact on our economy. Just this month, the Government Accountability Office reported that climate change will continue to increase costs to taxpayers for the federal flood and crop insurance programs. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is already $24 billion in debt, due to extreme weather events like Hurricane Sandy and last year\u2019s floods in New Mexico.\r\nThe cost of the federal crop insurance program has increased 68 percent just since 2007. If left unchecked, these costs will continue to skyrocket. Even more disturbing than these numbers is the devastating impact of climate change to farmers, ranchers, and communities.\r\nThe threat is clear. But so are the solutions. With policies that encourage the production of clean energy right here at home, we can create a clean energy economy that leads the world in producing the jobs of the future. This will require a commitment that matches the scale of the challenges we face.\r\nThe United States has enough wind energy potential to power the nation 10 times over. New Mexico has the some of the best wind resources in the nation, enough to meet more than 73 times the state\u2019s current electricity needs. Moreover, wind power has no carbon emissions and uses virtually no water, already saving New Mexicans almost 470 million gallons of water a year.\r\nThe U.S. solar industry now employs more people than coal and natural gas combined: 143,000 American workers in 2013, up nearly 20 percent from 2012. New Mexico ranks ninth in the country in installed solar capacity. Solar employment grew 10 times faster than the national average. The vast majority \u2013 70 percent \u2013 of those jobs are in manufacturing and installation. Those are high-paying, local jobs that cannot be shipped overseas.\r\nNow is the time to build on the momentum and invest in a clean energy economy \u2013 before we lose too much of the market to our overseas competitors in Germany, China and elsewhere. Just as we invested in the burgeoning oil industry, we need to invest in wind, solar and biofuels.\r\nWe call on Congress to support tax credits for renewables, and to continue to support resources for the important cutting-edge energy research at Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories. We also must pass a national Renewable Electricity Standard \u2013 similar to the one in New Mexico and over half the states and the District of Columbia \u2013 requiring utilities to generate 20 percent of electricity from renewable resources by 2020.\r\nNew Mexico can be a leader in the clean energy economy. We can create high-paying jobs that cannot be outsourced, and that can help revitalize our rural areas. We have the technology. We have the resources. We must ensure our commitment matches the challenges we face.\r\nRather than denying the problem, let\u2019s work together and get the job done \u2013 for our economy, for our energy independence and for our future.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1807", "Udall, Heinrich Urge Funding Solution For Land And Water Conservation Fund [press_release]", "2014-11-26", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 26, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Urge Funding Solution For Land And Water Conservation Fund \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich this week joined 39 other U.S. senators in calling on Senate leadership to work with them to find a permanent funding solution for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). \"The Land and Water Conservation Fund guarantees a prosperous and vital future for the next generation while preserving our uniquely American way of life across this nation,\" the senators wrote in the letter. \"Accordingly, we urge you to enact a permanent and comprehensive solution for this vital program before the 113th Congress adjourns.\" The LWCF has helped create and protect urban parks and open spaces that enhance recreation and outdoor opportunities in urban and rural communities alike. The LWCF is funded almost entirely by oil and gas leasing along the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Congress authorized the fund at $900 million through the end of the fiscal year, on Sept. 30, 2015.\nCongress established the Land and Water Conservation Fund in 1964 to help state and local governments conserve open spaces for the benefit of all Americans. For Fiscal Year 2014, $507,107 has been allocated to support projects in New Mexico. Since its inception, more than $4 billion has been made available for state and local governments to fund over 40,000 projects across the nation. A recent analysis found that every $1 invested in land acquisition generated a $4 return on the investment for communities.  The letter was signed by 39 other senators: Ron Wyden, D-Ore.; Richard Burr, R-N.C.; Maria Cantwell, D-Wash.; Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.; Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H.; Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H.; Jeff Merkley, D-Ore.; Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.; John Walsh, D-Mont.; Susan Collins, R-Maine; Michael Bennet, D-Colo.; Mike Crapo, R-Idaho; Joe Manchin, D-W.V.; Bernard Sanders, I-Vt.; Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich.; Angus King, I-Maine; Kay Hagan, D-N.C.; Jon Tester, D-Mont.; Ben Cardin, D-Md.; Tim Johnson, D-S.D.; Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii; Al Franken, D-Minn.; Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii; Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.; Chris Murphy, D-Conn.; Cory Booker, D-N.J.; Chris Coons, D-Del.; Robert P. Casey, Jr., D-Penn.; Ed Markey, D-Mass.; Mark Pryor, D-Ark.; Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.; Tom Harkin, D-Iowa; Bob Menendez, D-N.J.; Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.; Barbara Boxer, D-Calif.; Mark Udall, D-Colo.; Tim Kaine, D-Va.; Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.; and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. Text of the letter is available HERE.\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-urge-funding-solution-for-land-and-water-conservation-fund", "Udall, Heinrich Urge Funding Solution For Land And Water Conservation Fund", "2014-11-26", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Urge Funding Solution For Land And Water Conservation Fund\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 26, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich this week joined 39 other U.S. senators in calling on Senate leadership to work with them to find a permanent funding solution for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).\r\n\u201cThe Land and Water Conservation Fund guarantees a prosperous and vital future for the next generation while preserving our uniquely American way of life across this nation,\u201d the senators wrote in the letter. \u201cAccordingly, we urge you to enact a permanent and comprehensive solution for this vital program before the 113th Congress adjourns.\u201d\r\nThe LWCF has helped create and protect urban parks and open spaces that enhance recreation and outdoor opportunities in urban and rural communities alike. The LWCF is funded almost entirely by oil and gas leasing along the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Congress authorized the fund at $900 million through the end of the fiscal year, on Sept. 30, 2015.\r\nCongress established the Land and Water Conservation Fund in 1964 to help state and local governments conserve open spaces for the benefit of all Americans. For Fiscal Year 2014, $507,107 has been allocated to support projects in New Mexico. Since its inception, more than $4 billion has been made available for state and local governments to fund over 40,000 projects across the nation. A recent analysis found that every $1 invested in land acquisition generated a $4 return on the investment for communities.\u00a0\r\n\u00a0The letter was signed by 39 other senators: Ron Wyden, D-Ore.; Richard Burr, R-N.C.; Maria Cantwell, D-Wash.; Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.; Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H.; Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H.; Jeff Merkley, D-Ore.; Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.; John Walsh, D-Mont.; Susan Collins, R-Maine; Michael Bennet, D-Colo.; Mike Crapo, R-Idaho; Joe Manchin, D-W.V.; Bernard Sanders, I-Vt.; Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich.; Angus King, I-Maine; Kay Hagan, D-N.C.; Jon Tester, D-Mont.; Ben Cardin, D-Md.; Tim Johnson, D-S.D.; Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii; Al Franken, D-Minn.; Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii; Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.; Chris Murphy, D-Conn.; Cory Booker, D-N.J.; Chris Coons, D-Del.; Robert P. Casey, Jr., D-Penn.; Ed Markey, D-Mass.; Mark Pryor, D-Ark.; Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.; Tom Harkin, D-Iowa; Bob Menendez, D-N.J.; Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.; Barbara Boxer, D-Calif.; Mark Udall, D-Colo.; Tim Kaine, D-Va.; Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.; and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.\r\nText of the letter is available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-urge-funding-solution-for-land-and-water-conservation-fund", "Udall, Heinrich Urge Funding Solution For Land And Water Conservation Fund", "2014-11-26", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 26, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Urge Funding Solution For Land And Water Conservation Fund \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich this week joined 39 other U.S. senators in calling on Senate leadership to work with them to find a permanent funding solution for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). \"The Land and Water Conservation Fund guarantees a prosperous and vital future for the next generation while preserving our uniquely American way of life across this nation,\" the senators wrote in the letter. \"Accordingly, we urge you to enact a permanent and comprehensive solution for this vital program before the 113th Congress adjourns.\" The LWCF has helped create and protect urban parks and open spaces that enhance recreation and outdoor opportunities in urban and rural communities alike. The LWCF is funded almost entirely by oil and gas leasing along the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Congress authorized the fund at $900 million through the end of the fiscal year, on Sept. 30, 2015.\nCongress established the Land and Water Conservation Fund in 1964 to help state and local governments conserve open spaces for the benefit of all Americans. For Fiscal Year 2014, $507,107 has been allocated to support projects in New Mexico. Since its inception, more than $4 billion has been made available for state and local governments to fund over 40,000 projects across the nation. A recent analysis found that every $1 invested in land acquisition generated a $4 return on the investment for communities.  The letter was signed by 39 other senators: Ron Wyden, D-Ore.; Richard Burr, R-N.C.; Maria Cantwell, D-Wash.; Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.; Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H.; Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H.; Jeff Merkley, D-Ore.; Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn.; John Walsh, D-Mont.; Susan Collins, R-Maine; Michael Bennet, D-Colo.; Mike Crapo, R-Idaho; Joe Manchin, D-W.V.; Bernard Sanders, I-Vt.; Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich.; Angus King, I-Maine; Kay Hagan, D-N.C.; Jon Tester, D-Mont.; Ben Cardin, D-Md.; Tim Johnson, D-S.D.; Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii; Al Franken, D-Minn.; Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii; Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.; Chris Murphy, D-Conn.; Cory Booker, D-N.J.; Chris Coons, D-Del.; Robert P. Casey, Jr., D-Penn.; Ed Markey, D-Mass.; Mark Pryor, D-Ark.; Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.; Tom Harkin, D-Iowa; Bob Menendez, D-N.J.; Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.; Barbara Boxer, D-Calif.; Mark Udall, D-Colo.; Tim Kaine, D-Va.; Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.; and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. Text of the letter is available HERE.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1806", "Udall, Heinrich Back DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices [press_release]", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 25, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Back DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) are supporting the Department of Defense's (DOD) plan to update the Military Lending Act (MLA) and close existing loopholes in order to better protect soldiers and their families from abusive financial practices. In a letter sent today to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, the Senators expressed strong support for the proposed new rule to help prevent lenders from charging excessive fees and taking advantage of military families.\n\"As our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders,\" the Senators wrote.  \"We strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.\"\nFollowing a 2006 Pentagon report that found that \"predatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all-volunteer fighting force,\" Congress passed the MLA.  This law capped the annual interest rates for consumer credit to service members and their dependents at 36% while giving DOD the authority to define what loans should be covered.  The DOD's 2007 implementing regulations narrowly included only three types of loans: (1) payday loans: closed-end loans with terms of 91 days or fewer, for $2,000 or less; (2) auto title loans: closed-end loans with terms of 181 days or fewer; and (3) refund anticipation loans: closed-end credit.\nIn the proposed changes to the MLA, first announced in September, DOD seeks to close existing loopholes in the current MLA rule.  Today's letter voices strong support for the proposed rule, arguing that the changes strike a better balance between protecting service members and their families while maintaining access to good credit.\nSenators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Jack Reed (D-RI) who led the letter, and 36 other Senators including, Mark Udall (D-CO), Levin (D-MI), Brown (D-OH), Hirono (D-HI), Manchin (D-WV), Warner (D-VA), Franken (D-MN), Baldwin (D-WI), Nelson (D-FL), Murphy (D-CT), Blumenthal (D-CT), Merkley (D-OR), Warren (D-MA), Gillibrand (D-NY), Murray (D-WA), Whitehouse (D-RI), King (I-ME), Klobuchar (D-MN), Kaine (D-VA), McCaskill (D-MO), Shaheen (D-NH), Schatz (D-HI), Markey (D-MA), Bennet (D-CO), Coons (D-DE), Donnelly (D-IN), Feinstein (D-CA), Cardin (D-MD), Carper (D-DE), Wyden (D-OR), Heitkamp (D-ND), Tester (D-MT), Boxer (D-CA), Hagan (D-NC), Harkin (D-IA), and Schumer (D-NY) in signing onto the letter.  The signatories include every Democratic member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\nThe comment period, which was recently extended, for the proposed rule ends on December 26, 2014.\nThe full text of the letter follows:\nThe Honorable Chuck HagelSecretaryU.S. Department of Defense1000 Defense PentagonWashington, D.C. 20301-1000\nRe: Limitations on Terms of Consumer Credit Extended to Service members and DependentsDocket ID: DoD-2013-OS-0133\nNovember 25, 2014\nDear Mr. Secretary:\nWe are writing in response to the Department of Defense (DOD) proposal to update the implementing rules for the Military Lending Act (MLA).\nBy enacting the MLA as part of the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007, Congress sent a clear bipartisan message that protecting service members and their families from predatory and high cost lending was of paramount importance to their financial security and military readiness.\nThis concern was reiterated in the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, which stated that \"the conferees are concerned that the Department must remain vigilant to eliminate continuing, evolving predatory lending practices targeting service members and their families, and believe the Department should review its regulations implementing section 987, to address changes in the industry and the evolution of lending products offered since 2007, continuing use of predatory marketing practices, and other abuses identified by consumer protection advocates, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Office of Servicemember Affairs.\"\nAs a result of this required review of the current MLA rule, DOD in its proposal now recommends closing existing MLA loopholes.  We believe this strikes a significantly better balance than the current MLA rule between protecting service members and their families on the one hand and maintaining access to non-predatory credit on the other.  As such, this proposal also does a much better job of reflecting Congressional intent. \nSpecifically, we support the proposal to expand the MLA's \"definition of \u2018consumer credit' to cover a broader range of closed-end and open-end credit products.\"  In so doing, the rule proposes that these products be treated in a manner generally consistent with the decades-old requirements of the Truth in Lending Act. \nThis comprehensive approach is essential to preventing future evasions.  As DOD notes in its proposed rule, \"the extremely narrow definition of \u2018consumer credit' permits creditors to structure credit products in order to reduce or avoid altogether the obligations of the MLA.\"  For example, MLA protections currently can be avoided by simply adding a day to the term of a payday loan or by lending just one additional cent so that the payday loan no longer qualifies as \"consumer credit\" subject to the MLA protections. \nContrary to Congressional intent, these evasions threaten military readiness.  According to DOD, \"each separation of a service member is estimated to cost the Department $57,333, and the Department estimates that each year approximately 4,703 to 7,957 service members are involuntarily separated due to financial distress.\"  In addition to the estimated cost savings DOD has identified, we give great weight and deference to DOD's statement that the proposed MLA rule \"would reduce non-quantifiable costs associated with financial strains on service members. High-cost debt can detract from mission focus, reduce productivity, and require the attention of supervisors and commanders.\"  As a result, we strongly agree with DOD's view that the proposed MLA rule not only has the potential to produce substantial cost savings, but also enhance military readiness.\nIn August of last year, a number of us wrote, \"service members and their families deserve the strongest possible protections and swift action to ensure that all forms of credit offered to members of our armed forces are safe and sound.\"  Indeed, as our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders. \nFor all these reasons, we strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-back-dod-plan-to-better-protect-military-families-from-abusive-financial-practices", "Udall, Heinrich Back DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Back DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 25, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) are supporting the Department of Defense's (DOD) plan to update the Military Lending Act (MLA) and close existing loopholes in order to better protect soldiers and their families from abusive financial practices.\u00a0In a letter sent today to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, the Senators expressed strong support for the proposed new rule to help prevent lenders from charging excessive fees and taking advantage of military families.\r\n\"As our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders,\" the Senators wrote.\u00a0 \"We strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.\"\r\nFollowing a 2006 Pentagon report that found that \"predatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all-volunteer fighting force,\" Congress passed the MLA.\u00a0 This law capped the annual interest rates for consumer credit to service members and their dependents at 36% while giving DOD the authority to define what loans should be covered.\u00a0 The DOD's 2007 implementing regulations narrowly included only three types of loans: (1) payday loans: closed-end loans with terms of 91 days or fewer, for $2,000 or less; (2) auto title loans: closed-end loans with terms of 181 days or fewer; and (3) refund anticipation loans: closed-end credit.\r\nIn the proposed changes to the MLA, first announced in September, DOD seeks to close existing loopholes in the current MLA rule.\u00a0 Today's letter voices strong support for the proposed rule, arguing that the changes strike a better balance between protecting service members and their families while maintaining access to good credit.\u00a0\r\nSenators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Jack Reed (D-RI) who led the letter, and 36 other Senators including, Mark Udall (D-CO), Levin (D-MI), Brown (D-OH), Hirono (D-HI), Manchin (D-WV), Warner (D-VA), Franken (D-MN), Baldwin (D-WI), Nelson (D-FL), Murphy (D-CT), Blumenthal (D-CT), Merkley (D-OR), Warren (D-MA), Gillibrand (D-NY), Murray (D-WA), Whitehouse (D-RI), King (I-ME), Klobuchar (D-MN), Kaine (D-VA), McCaskill (D-MO), Shaheen (D-NH), Schatz (D-HI), Markey (D-MA), Bennet (D-CO), Coons (D-DE), Donnelly (D-IN), Feinstein (D-CA), Cardin (D-MD), Carper (D-DE), Wyden (D-OR), Heitkamp (D-ND), Tester (D-MT), Boxer (D-CA), Hagan (D-NC), Harkin (D-IA), and Schumer (D-NY) in signing onto the letter.\u00a0 The signatories include every Democratic member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\u00a0\r\nThe comment period, which was recently extended, for the proposed rule ends on December 26, 2014.\r\nThe full text of the letter is here and below:\r\nThe Honorable Chuck Hagel Secretary U.S. Department of Defense 1000 Defense Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20301-1000 Re: Limitations on Terms of Consumer Credit Extended to Service members and Dependents   Docket ID: DoD-2013-OS-0133\r\nNovember 25, 2014\r\nDear Mr. Secretary:\r\nWe are writing in response to the Department of Defense (DOD) proposal to update the implementing rules for the Military Lending Act (MLA).\r\nBy enacting the MLA as part of the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007, Congress sent a clear bipartisan message that protecting service members and their families from predatory and high cost lending was of paramount importance to their financial security and military readiness. This concern was reiterated in the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, which stated that \"the conferees are concerned that the Department must remain vigilant to eliminate continuing, evolving predatory lending practices targeting service members and their families, and believe the Department should review its regulations implementing section 987, to address changes in the industry and the evolution of lending products offered since 2007, continuing use of predatory marketing practices, and other abuses identified by consumer protection advocates, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Office of Servicemember Affairs.\" As a result of this required review of the current MLA rule, DOD in its proposal now recommends closing existing MLA loopholes.\u00a0 We believe this strikes a significantly better balance than the current MLA rule between protecting service members and their families on the one hand and maintaining access to non-predatory credit on the other.\u00a0 As such, this proposal also does a much better job of reflecting Congressional intent.  Specifically, we support the proposal to expand the MLA's \"definition of \u2018consumer credit' to cover a broader range of closed-end and open-end credit products.\"\u00a0 In so doing, the rule proposes that these products be treated in a manner generally consistent with the decades-old requirements of the Truth in Lending Act.  This comprehensive approach is essential to preventing future evasions.\u00a0 As DOD notes in its proposed rule, \"the extremely narrow definition of \u2018consumer credit' permits creditors to structure credit products in order to reduce or avoid altogether the obligations of the MLA.\"\u00a0 For example, MLA protections currently can be avoided by simply adding a day to the term of a payday loan or by lending just one additional cent so that the payday loan no longer qualifies as \"consumer credit\" subject to the MLA protections.\u00a0  Contrary to Congressional intent, these evasions threaten military readiness.\u00a0 According to DOD, \"each separation of a service member is estimated to cost the Department $57,333, and the Department estimates that each year approximately 4,703 to 7,957 service members are involuntarily separated due to financial distress.\"\u00a0 In addition to the estimated cost savings DOD has identified, we give great weight and deference to DOD's statement that the proposed MLA rule \"would reduce non-quantifiable costs associated with financial strains on service members. High-cost debt can detract from mission focus, reduce productivity, and require the attention of supervisors and commanders.\"\u00a0 As a result, we strongly agree with DOD's view that the proposed MLA rule not only has the potential to produce substantial cost savings, but also enhance military readiness. In August of last year, a number of us wrote, \"service members and their families deserve the strongest possible protections and swift action to ensure that all forms of credit offered to members of our armed forces are safe and sound.\"\u00a0 Indeed, as our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders.  For all these reasons, we strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness. Sincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-back-dod-plan-to-better-protect-military-families-from-abusive-financial-practices", "Udall, Heinrich Back DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices", "2014-11-25", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 25, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Back DOD Plan to Better Protect Military Families from Abusive Financial Practices \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) are supporting the Department of Defense's (DOD) plan to update the Military Lending Act (MLA) and close existing loopholes in order to better protect soldiers and their families from abusive financial practices. In a letter sent today to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, the Senators expressed strong support for the proposed new rule to help prevent lenders from charging excessive fees and taking advantage of military families.\n\"As our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders,\" the Senators wrote.  \"We strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.\"\nFollowing a 2006 Pentagon report that found that \"predatory lending undermines military readiness, harms the morale of troops and their families, and adds to the cost of fielding an all-volunteer fighting force,\" Congress passed the MLA.  This law capped the annual interest rates for consumer credit to service members and their dependents at 36% while giving DOD the authority to define what loans should be covered.  The DOD's 2007 implementing regulations narrowly included only three types of loans: (1) payday loans: closed-end loans with terms of 91 days or fewer, for $2,000 or less; (2) auto title loans: closed-end loans with terms of 181 days or fewer; and (3) refund anticipation loans: closed-end credit.\nIn the proposed changes to the MLA, first announced in September, DOD seeks to close existing loopholes in the current MLA rule.  Today's letter voices strong support for the proposed rule, arguing that the changes strike a better balance between protecting service members and their families while maintaining access to good credit.\nSenators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Jack Reed (D-RI) who led the letter, and 36 other Senators including, Mark Udall (D-CO), Levin (D-MI), Brown (D-OH), Hirono (D-HI), Manchin (D-WV), Warner (D-VA), Franken (D-MN), Baldwin (D-WI), Nelson (D-FL), Murphy (D-CT), Blumenthal (D-CT), Merkley (D-OR), Warren (D-MA), Gillibrand (D-NY), Murray (D-WA), Whitehouse (D-RI), King (I-ME), Klobuchar (D-MN), Kaine (D-VA), McCaskill (D-MO), Shaheen (D-NH), Schatz (D-HI), Markey (D-MA), Bennet (D-CO), Coons (D-DE), Donnelly (D-IN), Feinstein (D-CA), Cardin (D-MD), Carper (D-DE), Wyden (D-OR), Heitkamp (D-ND), Tester (D-MT), Boxer (D-CA), Hagan (D-NC), Harkin (D-IA), and Schumer (D-NY) in signing onto the letter.  The signatories include every Democratic member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\nThe comment period, which was recently extended, for the proposed rule ends on December 26, 2014.\nThe full text of the letter follows:\nThe Honorable Chuck HagelSecretaryU.S. Department of Defense1000 Defense PentagonWashington, D.C. 20301-1000\nRe: Limitations on Terms of Consumer Credit Extended to Service members and DependentsDocket ID: DoD-2013-OS-0133\nNovember 25, 2014\nDear Mr. Secretary:\nWe are writing in response to the Department of Defense (DOD) proposal to update the implementing rules for the Military Lending Act (MLA).\nBy enacting the MLA as part of the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007, Congress sent a clear bipartisan message that protecting service members and their families from predatory and high cost lending was of paramount importance to their financial security and military readiness.\nThis concern was reiterated in the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, which stated that \"the conferees are concerned that the Department must remain vigilant to eliminate continuing, evolving predatory lending practices targeting service members and their families, and believe the Department should review its regulations implementing section 987, to address changes in the industry and the evolution of lending products offered since 2007, continuing use of predatory marketing practices, and other abuses identified by consumer protection advocates, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Office of Servicemember Affairs.\"\nAs a result of this required review of the current MLA rule, DOD in its proposal now recommends closing existing MLA loopholes.  We believe this strikes a significantly better balance than the current MLA rule between protecting service members and their families on the one hand and maintaining access to non-predatory credit on the other.  As such, this proposal also does a much better job of reflecting Congressional intent. \nSpecifically, we support the proposal to expand the MLA's \"definition of consumer credit' to cover a broader range of closed-end and open-end credit products.\"  In so doing, the rule proposes that these products be treated in a manner generally consistent with the decades-old requirements of the Truth in Lending Act. \nThis comprehensive approach is essential to preventing future evasions.  As DOD notes in its proposed rule, \"the extremely narrow definition of consumer credit' permits creditors to structure credit products in order to reduce or avoid altogether the obligations of the MLA.\"  For example, MLA protections currently can be avoided by simply adding a day to the term of a payday loan or by lending just one additional cent so that the payday loan no longer qualifies as \"consumer credit\" subject to the MLA protections. \nContrary to Congressional intent, these evasions threaten military readiness.  According to DOD, \"each separation of a service member is estimated to cost the Department $57,333, and the Department estimates that each year approximately 4,703 to 7,957 service members are involuntarily separated due to financial distress.\"  In addition to the estimated cost savings DOD has identified, we give great weight and deference to DOD's statement that the proposed MLA rule \"would reduce non-quantifiable costs associated with financial strains on service members. High-cost debt can detract from mission focus, reduce productivity, and require the attention of supervisors and commanders.\"  As a result, we strongly agree with DOD's view that the proposed MLA rule not only has the potential to produce substantial cost savings, but also enhance military readiness.\nIn August of last year, a number of us wrote, \"service members and their families deserve the strongest possible protections and swift action to ensure that all forms of credit offered to members of our armed forces are safe and sound.\"  Indeed, as our service members are asked to take on even more tasks in defense of our nation, we should take every opportunity to protect them and their families here at home, especially from unscrupulous lenders. \nFor all these reasons, we strongly support the proposed MLA rule and urge that the final MLA rule be similarly robust in enhancing protections for service members and their families, producing significant cost savings for DOD, and improving military readiness.\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1803", "Udall Statement on Chuck Hagel [press_release]", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 24, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Chuck Hagel \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement after President Obama announced that Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel will step down:  \"Over the last year, we have seen the emergence of a brutal terrorist organization as well as other security threats that have required a targeted, strategic response, with little room for mistakes. As the commander in chief, President Obama needs to have a strong defense secretary who will handle these challenges with authority and clear leadership. I thank Secretary Hagel for his many years of service to our country and to the administration. I particularly appreciate Secretary Hagel's strong understanding of the strategic importance of our national laboratories, and I hope his successor will share that focus. I look forward to more information from the president about his next steps as well as the upcoming confirmation process.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1805", "Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $400,000 for Navajo Distance Learning [press_release]", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 24, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $400,000 for Navajo Distance Learning \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced $447,748 in funding for a distance learning initiative for the Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, N.M.  This funding, made possible through the Department of Agriculture's Distance Learning and Telemedicine program, is intended to counteract high unemployment and poverty in the Navajo community. Quality distance learning is an important tool, especially for the large Navajo Nation, where many students have to travel long distances in order to take classes on campus. Distance learning allows students to work during the day and take classes at night, and can also provide access to certificate programs and courses to enhance job skills.\n\"It is critical that New Mexico's tribes have the tools to build sustainable economies and vibrant businesses, and this grant for distance learning will help the Navajo Nation provide the technical education students need to compete in today's economy,\" Udall said. \"The Navajo Technical University fills a vital role in educating tomorrow's tribal leaders, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am proud to support investments in tribal education and advancement.\"\n\"These funds for distance learning programs will provide critical education and training tools to the Navajo community and should be a model for other colleges serving rural areas,\" Heinrich said. \"By increasing access to education programs and job training, especially in telemedicine, we improve the quality of life and future economic prospects for our communities.\"\nThrough the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) program, USDA has awarded grants to provide rural Americans access to medical services, improve educational opportunities, and support Native American communities. The program helps rural communities acquire distance learning and telemedicine technologies to better serve rural residents.\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023829/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-applauds-decision-interstate-stream-commission", "Pearce Applauds Decision by Interstate Stream Commission", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Republican", "House", "NM", "Steve Pearce", "P000588", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC (Nov. 24, 2014)\u00a0Today, the Interstate Stream Commission (ISC) voted to accept $128 million in federal funding to claim 14,000 acre feet of water from the Gila River. Under the Arizona Water Settlements Act of 2004, the State of New Mexico has the legal right to claim the water and take the funds by December 31, 2014.\n\u201cI applaud the ISC for doing what is best for New Mexico:\u00a0 ignoring special interest groups, and acquiring much-needed water that the state is legally entitled to,\u201d said Pearce. \u201cFor almost a decade, there has been a spirited debate over whether or not to proceed with a plan to take this water. Had the State not taken it, we would have lost millions of gallons of water that New Mexicans desperately need. Instead, the ISC came up with a plan that will move water to thousands of households in Southwestern New Mexico.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141207050253/http://lujan.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1493", "Lujan Introduces Legislation to Preserve Native American Languages", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Ben Luj\u00e1n", "L000570", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n of New Mexico\u2019s Third District announced that he recently introduced legislation to help Native American communities preserve their traditional languages.\u00a0 This updated reauthorization of the Esther Martinez Native American Language Preservation Act improves and reauthorizes an existing program to support tribal communities and makes resources available to achieve this vital goal. \u201cLanguage preservation is a vital component of broader efforts to preserve the nuances of Native American culture and traditions that are often lost in translation.\u00a0 Language is an essential part of history, culture, and way of life,\u201d Congressman Luj\u00e1n said.\u00a0 \u201cThe preservation of culture depends upon the endurance of native languages that have been an integral part of tribes in New Mexico and across the country.\u00a0 Continuing the successful programs implemented by the Esther Martinez Native American Language Preservation Act will help expand fluency in native languages, helping tribal communities preserve their cultural traditions and ensuring that these languages will continue to provide meaning and value to future generations.\u201d In 2006, the Esther Martinez Native American Language Preservation Act was signed into law to support language immersion programs, language survival schools, and language restoration programs.\u00a0 In addition to reauthorizing this important effort, Luj\u00e1n\u2019s bill also increases the sustainability and flexibility of the program by extending the duration of grant awards to up to five years, giving projects a more stable funding source and increasing the impact of each project.\u00a0 Additionally, more language schools and language nests in low populated and remote areas will be eligible to access this important grant funding.\u00a0 The reauthorization of this legislation would allow existing programs to continue through Fiscal Year 2019.\u00a0 \u00a0 Previously, in February of 2013, Luj\u00e1n introduced legislation to extend the Esther Martinez Native American Language Preservation Act.\u00a0 This new, strengthened legislation mirrors a Senate companion bill that was recently reported favorably to the full Senate by the Committee on Indian Affairs.\u00a0 This effort enjoys bipartisan support and was introduced with the support of five co-sponsors.  #\u00a0 #\u00a0 #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/udall-heinrich-announce-more-than-400000-for-navajo-distance-learning", "Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $400,000 for Navajo Distance Learning", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $400,000 for Navajo Distance Learning\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 24, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced $447,748 in funding for a distance learning initiative for the Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, N.M.\u00a0 This funding, made possible through the Department of Agriculture's Distance Learning and Telemedicine program, is intended to counteract high unemployment and poverty in the Navajo community. Quality distance learning is an important tool, especially for the large Navajo Nation, where many students have to travel long distances in order to take classes on campus. Distance learning allows students to work during the day and take classes at night, and can also provide access to certificate programs and courses to enhance job skills.\r\n\u201cIt is critical that New Mexico's tribes have the tools to build sustainable economies and vibrant businesses, and this grant for distance learning will help the Navajo Nation provide the technical education students need to compete in today's economy,\u201d Udall said. \u201cThe Navajo Technical University fills a vital role in educating tomorrow's tribal leaders, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am proud to support investments in tribal education and advancement.\u201d\r\n\u201cThese funds for distance learning programs will provide critical education and training tools to the Navajo community and should be a model for other colleges serving rural areas,\u201d Heinrich said. \u201cBy increasing access to education programs and job training, especially in telemedicine, we improve the quality of life and future economic prospects for our communities.\u201d\r\nThrough the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) program, USDA has awarded grants to provide rural Americans access to medical services, improve educational opportunities, and support Native American communities. The program helps rural communities acquire distance learning and telemedicine technologies to better serve rural residents.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-heinrich-announce-more-than-400-000-for-navajo-distance-learning", "Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $400,000 for Navajo Distance Learning", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 24, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $400,000 for Navajo Distance Learning \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced $447,748 in funding for a distance learning initiative for the Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, N.M.  This funding, made possible through the Department of Agriculture's Distance Learning and Telemedicine program, is intended to counteract high unemployment and poverty in the Navajo community. Quality distance learning is an important tool, especially for the large Navajo Nation, where many students have to travel long distances in order to take classes on campus. Distance learning allows students to work during the day and take classes at night, and can also provide access to certificate programs and courses to enhance job skills.\n\"It is critical that New Mexico's tribes have the tools to build sustainable economies and vibrant businesses, and this grant for distance learning will help the Navajo Nation provide the technical education students need to compete in today's economy,\" Udall said. \"The Navajo Technical University fills a vital role in educating tomorrow's tribal leaders, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am proud to support investments in tribal education and advancement.\"\n\"These funds for distance learning programs will provide critical education and training tools to the Navajo community and should be a model for other colleges serving rural areas,\" Heinrich said. \"By increasing access to education programs and job training, especially in telemedicine, we improve the quality of life and future economic prospects for our communities.\"\nThrough the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) program, USDA has awarded grants to provide rural Americans access to medical services, improve educational opportunities, and support Native American communities. The program helps rural communities acquire distance learning and telemedicine technologies to better serve rural residents.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-statement-on-chuck-hagel", "Udall Statement on Chuck Hagel", "2014-11-24", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 24, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Statement on Chuck Hagel \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement after President Obama announced that Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel will step down:  \"Over the last year, we have seen the emergence of a brutal terrorist organization as well as other security threats that have required a targeted, strategic response, with little room for mistakes. As the commander in chief, President Obama needs to have a strong defense secretary who will handle these challenges with authority and clear leadership. I thank Secretary Hagel for his many years of service to our country and to the administration. I particularly appreciate Secretary Hagel's strong understanding of the strategic importance of our national laboratories, and I hope his successor will share that focus. I look forward to more information from the president about his next steps as well as the upcoming confirmation process.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023840/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-three-bills-address-transparency-efficiency-epa-and-ensure-science-used", "House passes three bills to address transparency, efficiency in the EPA and ensure science used in regulatory process", "2014-11-22", "2014", "2014-11", "Republican", "House", "NM", "Steve Pearce", "P000588", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC (Nov. 22, 2014)\u00a0The U.S. House of Representatives passed three bills this week to address transparency and efficiency in EPA\u2019s permitting process and ensure that the Agency is prevented from implementing economically harmful regulations without publishing the science behind it. Congressman Steve Pearce urged his colleagues in the Senate to take up these important pieces of legislation immediately.\nH.R. 1422, the Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013, makes changes to the EPA\u2019s Science Advisory Board to increase public participation, increase the transparency for selecting advisors, and ensures the board remains focused on science and not politics. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 229-191.\n\u201cUnder this administration, the EPA has introduced a number of economically devastating proposals that have had little scientific standing,\u201d said Congressman Steve Pearce.\u00a0 \u201cWith so many livelihoods on the line, we must ensure that the panel that reviews these regulations is fair and balanced. This bill will work to guarantee that these job-killing regulations are no longer subject to a biased panel and that there is transparency in the review process. I ask that my colleagues in the Senate take up this piece of legislation immediately.\u201d\nH.R. 4012, the Secret Science Reform Act, prohibits the EPA from enacting or proposing regulations without first publishing for independent review the science on which they were based. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 237-190.\n\u201cOver the last six years, the EPA has cost jobs and increased electricity rates for Western families through their economically damaging proposals,\u201d Pearce said. \u201cThese costly proposals have been implemented based on science that the EPA refuses to publicize for peer review. Taxpayers who pay for these reckless regulations deserve a say in the process. This bill will create a more transparent process by requiring the EPA to publicize their science.\u201d\nH.R. 4795, the Promoting New Manufacturing Act, increases transparency and efficiency within the EPA by reducing lengthy permitting delays for manufacturing facilities, which help create American jobs. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 238-172.\n\u201cIncreased domestic energy production has led to a revival of American manufacturing,\u201d Pearce said. \u201cUnfortunately, this administration and the EPA refuse to allow this manufacturing resurgence to reach its full potential. Permitting delays have stalled the production of numerous manufacturing facilities that would provide thousands of good-paying jobs for Americans. This bill cuts back the bureaucratic red tape that this administration has used to slow this recovery.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141205210944/http://lujangrisham.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398569", "Rep. Lujan Grisham Proposes National Care Corps", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Michelle Lujan Grisham", "L000580", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "ALBUQUERQUE -- U.S. Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham is proposing a national Care Corps program, modeled after the Peace Corps, that is designed to provide support for family caregivers and help meet the growing demand for the care of aging and disabled Americans.\nRep. Lujan Grisham\u2019s National Care Corps Act (H.R. 5288) will place volunteers in communities to work with seniors and individuals with disabilities who need extra support to live independently. In exchange, volunteers will receive health insurance and other benefits, such as tuition assistance.\nThe effort to connect younger volunteers with aging and disability populations will increase access to services and encourage growth in the direct care and health care workforce, while providing opportunity for young adults and others seeking exposure to a new field.\n\u201cWe all want to remain as independent as we can for as long as we can,\u201d Rep. Lujan Grisham said. \u201cBut there are significant barriers to seniors and people with disabilities who want to receive services in their homes or in community based settings.\u201d\n\u201cUnfortunately, we\u2019re facing high costs, along with a shortage of direct-care workers, which results in the lack of access to these important services, especially for middle class families. A national Care Corps will help build the workforce, while building intergenerational relationships that allow seniors and young people to learn from each other.\u201d\nExperts predict the U.S. will need to add at least 1 million more direct-care workers over the next 10 years to meet demand for caregivers. By 2030, there will be more than 72 million older Americans, making up 19-percent of the total population.\nRep. Lujan Grisham\u2019s bill would help to fill those gaps and provide opportunities for young adults and others looking for a new career.\nHighlights of the Care Corps Act:\n \n    The Care Corps would be created within the Administration for Community Living at the Department of Health and Human Services.\n    Public or private non-profit groups would apply for Care Corps grants and administer the program locally, training and assigning members to communities in need.\u00a0 \n    Volunteers would be trained to support the achievement and maintenance of the highest level of independent living; however, they would not provide professional medical services, administrative support services, or institutional care.\n    Corps members would receive living allowances and benefits, including health insurance coverage, during their volunteer period, and would be eligible for tuition assistance or loan repayment after they complete their assignment.\n    At least 20 percent of Care Corps volunteers would be placed in high-need areas.\n \n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141205210949/http://lujangrisham.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398570", "Lujan Grisham Announces Mobile Office Hours for Week of November 24", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Michelle Lujan Grisham", "L000580", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON\u00a0\u2013 U.S. Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham (NM-01) today announced that her staff will be holding Mobile Office Hours in the First Congressional District next week. Mobile Office Hours enable constituents to receive assistance with casework closer to their homes and in their communities.\nTo receive assistance with the VA, Social Security benefits, immigration applications, Medicare problems, military records, or any issue with a federal agency, constituents can stop by one of the following Mobile Office Hours:\nMonday, November 24\nWhen: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.  \nWhere: Palo Duro Senior Center  \n5221 Palo Duro Ave NE  \nAlbuquerque, NM 87110\nTuesday, November 25\nWhen: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.  \nWhere: Estancia/Torrance County Building  \n205 9th Street  \nEstancia, NM\u00a0 87016\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023853/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-obama-overreaches-again", "PEARCE: OBAMA OVERREACHES AGAIN", "2014-11-21", "2014", "2014-11", "Republican", "House", "NM", "Steve Pearce", "P000588", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC (Nov. 20, 2014)\u00a0Today, Congressman Pearce responded to President Obama\u2019s executive order outlining expanded relief for undocumented immigrants in the United States.\u00a0 Specifically, the \u201cImmigration Accountability Executive Action\u201d is a plan that expands Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and creates a new deferred action program for up to 4 million undocumented people who have lived in the U.S. for more than 5 years and are parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. The result is that the immigration law will be changed for nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants.\n\u201cPresident Obama\u2019s decision to use executive powers to alter immigration policy for 5 million people is a gross abuse of power,\u201d said Congressman Steve Pearce. \u201cThe President is choosing to ignore the bounds of his Constitutional powers and bypass Congress.\u00a0 Very simply, these actions are illegal and unlike those taken by any other President.\u00a0 This is not just my view, this is the view of many.\u00a0 Even Doris Meissner, the Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization Service for President Clinton, noted that prosecutorial discretion does not provide the President the right to ignore current law.\u201d\n\u201cNot only are the President\u2019s actions disregarding the Constitution, the democratic process, and the will of the people, they are short-sighted and cruel.\u00a0 The innately political action by the President will have harmful and damaging effects, while significantly disheartening and disadvantaging the millions of potential immigrants following the law and waiting to enter the United States.\u201d\n\u201cThe immigration system in the United States must change.\u00a0 As New Mexicans, we live with the impacts of a broken immigration system.\u00a0 For our families, for our neighbors, and for our friends, the government must work to correct this problem.\u00a0 As Gov. Martinez describes in a recent Washington Times article, reform cannot be political, temporary, or self-promoting.\u00a0 It must be permanent and it must be based on fairness.\u201d\n\u201cCongress must work together. We must find bipartisan solutions anywhere we can, as I have with Congressman O\u2019Rourke.\u00a0 Comprehensive immigration reform is not the only option, nor does it have to be.\u00a0 Immigration reform, like any issue, is not too large to face, as long as we are willing to work together.\u00a0 While members of Congress recognize the need to fix our broken immigration system, and that differing approaches exist to accomplish this, the reality is that the President cannot just ignore our laws.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1801", "Udall, Tester Introduce Legislation to Provide Support for Homeless and At-Risk Native Veterans [press_release]", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Tester Introduce Legislation to Provide Support for Homeless and At-Risk Native Veterans \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, and Tom Udall (D-NM) today introduced bipartisan legislation (S. 2960) to make sure all Native American veterans have a place to call home. Tester and Udall were joined by co-sponsors Tim Johnson (D-SD), Al Franken (D-MN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).\nTester and Udall's bill allows funds meant to help homeless veterans and veterans at-risk of homelessness to be made available to Native veterans.\nDue to regulations governing the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), vouchers for rental assistance available under a joint initiative between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs, known as HUD-VASH, are not currently available to tribal housing authorities.\n\"It's simply not right that Native veterans, who are at greater risk for homeless than any of their peers, can't access these needed funds,\" Tester said.  \"Native Americans serve in the Armed Forces at a higher rate than any other group and yet many live homeless on tribal lands.  They deserve better, and this bill will help them get back on their feet.  I hope all of my colleagues in the Senate will join me in supporting this legislation.\"\n\"New Mexico's Tribal members have a proud history of military service and have played a critical part in fighting for our nation. We have a solemn responsibility to ensure these veterans receive the services they have earned, including safe, quality housing. This bill makes simple but much-needed changes in the law that will make it easier for homeless veterans and their families living on Tribal lands to transition from homelessness and into permanent housing,\" said Senator Udall.\n\"I have been proud to use my role as Chairman of the Military Construction and VA Appropriations Subcommittee and the Banking Committee to support the HUD-VASH initiative.  In recent years, this program has made great strides in addressing veterans' homelessness.  It's time to expand this successful initiative to Indian Country and meet the needs of our Native veterans,\" said Senator Johnson.\n\"Just as our nation has a duty to honor Veterans for their service to our country, America also has a commitment to our first Americans - known as the federal Indian trust responsibility,\" said Senator Murkowski.  \"Alaska Natives and American Indians serve at higher rates in our military than any other race in America. We must ensure that our Native vets are not homeless, and this bill demonstrates a fulfillment of this simple promise we must keep.\"\nThe HUD-VASH initiative aims to lift veterans and their families out of homelessness and into permanent housing.  More information on HUD-VASH is available online HERE.\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://tomudall.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1802", "Udall Responds to Presidents Immigration Announcement [press_release]", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Responds to President\u0092s Immigration Announcement \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the president's decision to take executive action on immigration:  \"Over 40,000 people in New Mexico and millions more around the country are living in immigration limbo while they work and raise families here in the United States. Deporting these children and families isn't a realistic option. We need to focus our limited resources on securing the border and going after drug dealers, gang members and potential terrorists.\n\"New Mexicans have seen firsthand the problems caused by House Republicans, who have dragged their feet on immigration for too long - it has been 511 days since the Senate passed a bipartisan comprehensive reform bill. Because the House won't act, the president is justified in taking commonsense steps to fix our broken immigration system under existing law.\n\"The president is offering a temporary solution to keep families together, give employers who hire workers on visas more certainty about their workforce, and devote our limited resources to deporting dangerous criminals. It's past time for Congress to work together on a permanent fix of our broken immigration system.\"\n\u00a0\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20141205211002/http://lujangrisham.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398555", "Lujan Grisham Statement on Immigration Action", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Michelle Lujan Grisham", "L000580", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque \u2013 Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham (NM-01), Whip of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, released the following statement in response to President Obama\u2019s immigration announcement tonight.\n\"While I prefer a comprehensive approach to reforming our broken immigration system, I understand the immediacy of acting now to keep immigrant families together and provide them with temporary protections from deportation. By granting temporary work permits and requiring immigrants to go through background checks and pay taxes, we are encouraging them to come out of the shadows and be productive members of society. This will also allow us to shift resources toward other priorities in our communities.\n\"However, our work is not done. Our immigration system is still broken and Congress must pass a\u00a0comprehensive\u00a0legislative fix that will provide a long-term solution. The President has stated that he is willing to work with Congress and that he is willing to retract his order once Congress passes comprehensive immigration reform. This is an invitation from the President to Congress to work with him to finally fix what we all agree is a broken immigration system. I urge my Republican colleagues to stop delaying this issue and to pass comprehensive immigration reform today.\"\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/in-the-news/albuquerque-business-first-heinrich-proposes-federal-funding-for-microlabs", "Albuquerque Business First: Heinrich proposes federal funding for ‘microlabs’", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Albuquerque Business First: Heinrich proposes federal funding for \u2018microlabs\u2019\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                    By:\u00a0\r\n                    Gary Gerew\r\n                \r\n            \r\n            \r\n                \r\n                \r\n                \r\n            Thursday, November 20, 2014\r\n            \n\t\n\r\n            \r\n            Sen.\u00a0Martin Heinrich\u00a0(D-NM) has introduced a bill aimed at funding \"microlabs\" that would be used to give businesses access to equipment and personnel at national laboratories.\r\nHeinrich said the idea is to spur the transfer of technology from the labs to the marketplace.\r\n\"If we are going to realize the true potential of technology transfer, our national labs must be able to collaborate effectively with business, entrepreneurs, investors and research universities,\" Heinrich said in a statement. \"Obviously, we can't tear down the lab fences and security precautions that have historically limited these interactions, but we can and should create spaces in the communities where our labs reside that facilitate collaboration and commercialization. My legislation will help to build a 'front door,' literally and figuratively, where the community can interact directly with the scientists and engineers who are our laboratory's greatest assets. This will eliminate many of the barriers that have historically limited commercial technology transfer and incentivize the private sector jobs that result from successful commercialization projects.\"\r\nHeinrich said the Feynman Center for Innovation at Los Alamos and the Sandia Center for Collaboration and Commercialization are examples of the type of projects he is discussing.\r\nHis bill, the Microlab Technology Commercialization Act of 2014, would authorize federal funding to help cover the national labs' share of establishing the off-site microlabs.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/statements-and-speeches/heinrich-statement-on-fixing-our-broken-immigration-system", "Heinrich Statement On Fixing Our Broken Immigration System", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Statement On Fixing Our Broken Immigration System\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement on the actions President Obama is taking to help fix our broken immigration system:\r\n\"The President's proposal is a good first step toward fixing our nation's broken immigration system. This executive action cracks down on illegal immigration at the border and prioritizes deporting felons rather than families. It also requires undocumented workers to pass a background check and pay their taxes. Those are common sense steps and well within the executive authority used by Presidents like Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush to deal with these same issues. However, only Congress can finish the job and fix the entire immigration system.\r\n\"Last year, the Senate passed a common-sense, bipartisan immigration bill that dramatically increases resources at our nation's border, will grow our economy, and prioritizes keeping families together. Yet here we are, more than 500 days later, and Speaker Boehner still refuses to allow a vote on this legislation. That's not leadership, it's obstruction. Speaker Boehner needs to stop his activist litigation and do his job by passing legislation. If House Republicans genuinely want to fix our immigration laws and make our policies crystal clear, they would pass the Senate's bipartisan immigration bill now.  \"As the son of an immigrant, I know how important reform is for families across New Mexico. Our immigrant communities have helped write the economic, social, and cultural story of America. New Mexicans are eager for a solution, DREAM Act students deserve a solution, and our economy requires a solution. \"I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass a permanent solution to fix our nation's broken immigration system. America will be better for it.\"\r\n****\r\nHeinrich Sobre La Importancia De Arreglar Nuestro Roto Sistema Migratorio\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - El Senador Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) hizo las siguientes declaraciones sobre las acciones que el Presidente Obama est\u00e1 tomando para reparar nuestro roto sistema migratorio:\r\n\"La propuesta del Presidente es un buen primer paso para reparar nuestro roto sistema migratorio. Esta acci\u00f3n ejecutiva aplica mano dura en contra de la inmigraci\u00f3n ilegal en la frontera y prioriza la deportaci\u00f3n de aquellos que han cometido delitos graves, y no la de las familias. Tambi\u00e9n requiere que los trabajadores indocumentados no tengan antecedentes penales y paguen sus impuestos. Esos son pasos con sentido com\u00fan y caen claramente dentro de la autoridad ejecutiva utilizada por Presidentes como Ronald Reagan y George H.W. Bush para lidiar con los mismos problemas. Sin embargo, s\u00f3lo el Congreso puede terminar la labor y reparar todo el sistema migratorio.\r\n\"El a\u00f1o pasado, el Senado aprob\u00f3 un proyecto de ley bipartidista con sentido com\u00fan que aumenta dr\u00e1sticamente los fondos de seguridad fronteriza, fortalece a nuestra econom\u00eda y mantiene unidas a las familias. Sin embargo, aqu\u00ed estamos, 500 d\u00edas m\u00e1s tarde, y el presidente de la C\u00e1mara Boehner sigue rehus\u00e1ndose a permitir una votaci\u00f3n sobre este proyecto de ley. Eso no es liderazgo, es obstrucci\u00f3n. El presidente Boehner necesita poner fin a su litigaci\u00f3n activista y hacer su trabajo aprobando legislaci\u00f3n. Si los republicanos de la C\u00e1mara en verdad quieren arreglar nuestras leyes migratorias y hacerlas m\u00e1s claras, deber\u00edan de aprobar la reforma migratoria bipartidista aprobada por el Senado.\r\n\"Como el hijo de inmigrantes se lo importante que una reforma migratoria es para las familias de Nuevo M\u00e9xico. Nuestras comunidades inmigrantes han contribuido a la f\u00e1brica econ\u00f3mica, social y cultural de los Estados Unidos. Los residentes de Nuevo M\u00e9xico est\u00e1n listos por una soluci\u00f3n; los j\u00f3venes DREAMERs se merecen una soluci\u00f3n; y nuestra econom\u00eda requiere una soluci\u00f3n.\r\n\"Le pido a mis colegas de ambas bancadas que aprueben una soluci\u00f3n para arreglar el roto sistema migratorio de la naci\u00f3n. Los Estados Unidos ser\u00e1 mejor lugar gracias a esto.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-introduces-bill-to-modernize-nations-electric-transmission-grid", "Heinrich Introduces Bill To Modernize Nation’s Electric Transmission Grid", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Introduces Bill To Modernize Nation\u2019s Electric Transmission Grid\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced a bill (S. 2947) to remove barriers to creating a cleaner, more consumer-friendly electric grid.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe bill clarifies that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has the legal authority to require regional grid operators in interstate wholesale markets to allow consumers to be compensated for voluntarily reducing their electricity consumption--a tool referred to as demand response. By providing incentives for consumers to reduce their use of power, demand response lowers overall electricity costs, improves reliability and efficiency, and reduces emissions.\r\n\"Modernizing our electrical grid is central to becoming a nation that's more energy efficient and provides cost savings for everyone,\" said Sen. Heinrich. \"There is no kilowatt-hour more valuable than the one you don't use in the first place. This bill is a small fix but with big implications for growing the economy, and is central to slowing the effects of climate change and creating a healthier environment for future generations.\"\r\nThere are currently six multi-state independent grid operators, primarily in the East, Midwest and California, that are responsible for assuring the reliability of the power supplied to the local utility companies and keeping the cost of power down. FERC's authority to regulate these interstate markets for electricity arises under the 80-year old Federal Power Act. However, the law was written for a different era when there were no regional power grids and few interstate sales of electricity. Though the law gave FERC clear authority over matters affecting wholesale power rates, there is some question whether Congress intended a reduction in power use to be considered on equal footing with the generation of power, even though both clearly affect the rates consumers pay for power.\r\nThe U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on May 23, 2014 ruled that FERC did not have the authority to promote demand response as an alternative to the increased generation of power. Senator Heinrich's bill simply clarifies that FERC has the authority under the Federal Power Act.\r\n\r\nFull text of the bill is available\u00a0here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/press-releases/heinrich-staff-to-hold-mobile-office-hours-in-portales", "Heinrich Staff To Hold Mobile Office Hours In Portales", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Heinrich Staff To Hold Mobile Office Hours In Portales\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tROSWELL, N.M. - In an ongoing effort to provide top-notch constituent service, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's (D-N.M.) staff will hold Mobile Office Hours in Portales on Friday, November 21, 2014. Staff will be on hand to assist residents who have questions regarding Social Security benefits, Medicare, immigration, veterans benefits, student loans, and other federal programs. All are encouraged to attend.\r\nConstituents who are not able to attend Mobile Office Hours are encouraged to visit the\u00a0Helping You\u00a0section of Senator Heinrich's\u00a0online office\u00a0at\u00a0www.Heinrich.Senate.Gov.\u00a0\r\nPortales - Friday, November 21, 2014   WHO:\u00a0 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich's Staff   WHAT:\u00a0\u00a0Mobile Office Hours   WHEN:\u00a0 From 10 to 11 a.m.   WHERE:\u00a0 La Casa Family Health Center, 1515 W. Fir Street, Portales, N.M. 88130   QUESTIONS:\u00a0\u00a0Contact Senator Heinrich's\u00a0Roswell Office at (575) 622-7113", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-responds-to-president-and-146s-immigration-announcement", "Udall Responds to Presidents Immigration Announcement", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall Responds to Presidents Immigration Announcement \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement on the president's decision to take executive action on immigration:  \"Over 40,000 people in New Mexico and millions more around the country are living in immigration limbo while they work and raise families here in the United States. Deporting these children and families isn't a realistic option. We need to focus our limited resources on securing the border and going after drug dealers, gang members and potential terrorists.\n\"New Mexicans have seen firsthand the problems caused by House Republicans, who have dragged their feet on immigration for too long - it has been 511 days since the Senate passed a bipartisan comprehensive reform bill. Because the House won't act, the president is justified in taking commonsense steps to fix our broken immigration system under existing law.\n\"The president is offering a temporary solution to keep families together, give employers who hire workers on visas more certainty about their workforce, and devote our limited resources to deporting dangerous criminals. It's past time for Congress to work together on a permanent fix of our broken immigration system.\"\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.tomudall.senate.gov/news/press-releases/udall-tester-introduce-legislation-to-provide-support-for-homeless-and-at-risk-native-veterans", "Udall, Tester Introduce Legislation to Provide Support for Homeless and At-Risk Native Veterans", "2014-11-20", "2014", "2014-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Tom Udall", "U000039", "www.tomudall.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 20, 2014\n\t\t\t Udall, Tester Introduce Legislation to Provide Support for Homeless and At-Risk Native Veterans \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON - Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, and Tom Udall (D-NM) today introduced bipartisan legislation (S. 2960) to make sure all Native American veterans have a place to call home. Tester and Udall were joined by co-sponsors Tim Johnson (D-SD), Al Franken (D-MN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).\nTester and Udall's bill allows funds meant to help homeless veterans and veterans at-risk of homelessness to be made available to Native veterans.\nDue to regulations governing the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), vouchers for rental assistance available under a joint initiative between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs, known as HUD-VASH, are not currently available to tribal housing authorities.\n\"It's simply not right that Native veterans, who are at greater risk for homeless than any of their peers, can't access these needed funds,\" Tester said.  \"Native Americans serve in the Armed Forces at a higher rate than any other group and yet many live homeless on tribal lands.  They deserve better, and this bill will help them get back on their feet.  I hope all of my colleagues in the Senate will join me in supporting this legislation.\"\n\"New Mexico's Tribal members have a proud history of military service and have played a critical part in fighting for our nation. We have a solemn responsibility to ensure these veterans receive the services they have earned, including safe, quality housing. This bill makes simple but much-needed changes in the law that will make it easier for homeless veterans and their families living on Tribal lands to transition from homelessness and into permanent housing,\" said Senator Udall.\n\"I have been proud to use my role as Chairman of the Military Construction and VA Appropriations Subcommittee and the Banking Committee to support the HUD-VASH initiative.  In recent years, this program has made great strides in addressing veterans' homelessness.  It's time to expand this successful initiative to Indian Country and meet the needs of our Native veterans,\" said Senator Johnson.\n\"Just as our nation has a duty to honor Veterans for their service to our country, America also has a commitment to our first Americans - known as the federal Indian trust responsibility,\" said Senator Murkowski.  \"Alaska Natives and American Indians serve at higher rates in our military than any other race in America. We must ensure that our Native vets are not homeless, and this bill demonstrates a fulfillment of this simple promise we must keep.\"\nThe HUD-VASH initiative aims to lift veterans and their families out of homelessness and into permanent housing.  More information on HUD-VASH is available online HERE.\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t   \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n \n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 1261, "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": "NM", "p1": "2014"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 1112, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014&party=Democrat", "selected": false}, {"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 149, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 1261, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "NM", "label": "NM", "count": 1261, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2014", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014", "results": [{"value": "2014", "label": "2014", "count": 1261, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NM", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2014-11-20,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Etomudall~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Fudall-tester-introduce-legislation-to-provide-support-for-homeless-and-at-risk-native-veterans", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2014&_next=2014-11-20%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Etomudall~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress-releases~2Fudall-tester-introduce-legislation-to-provide-support-for-homeless-and-at-risk-native-veterans&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 1145.9503308869898, "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"}