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http://carson.house.gov/newsroom/past-e-newsletters/thank-you-for-a-great-2015 Thank You for a Great 2015 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House IN André Carson C001072 carson.house.gov     legacy December 31, 2015 Dear Friend, As your representative, itis a privilege torepresent you in Congress.Everyday Im working to bring your voice to our nations capital and make government work for you. With 2015 drawing to a close, here are afew highlights of what we were able to accomplish together over the past 12 months.It is an honor to work hard on behalf of you, your family, and our community. HELPING HOOSIERS IS MY BIGGEST PRIORITY: My office is committed to be a place of service where your needs come first. Over the course of 2015, I am proud to let you know that we: Helped over 900 Hoosiers who were having difficulties with federal or state agencies Responded to over140,000 of your letters, phone calls, and emails Helped secure over $7,000,000 in federal grant money for nonprofit and community organizationswithin the 7th Congressional District Hosted over 140 community meetings and events with residents including my annual job fair and youth opportunities fair On the80th Anniversary of Social Security in August, Congressman Carson met with constituents to discuss ways his office could help with social security benefits. PUTTING HOOSIERS BACK TO WORK: Creating jobs and putting Hoosiers back to work remains a priority for me. Earlier this year, my office hosted its sixth annual job fair that connected over 1200 residents with 138 employers from across Central Indiana.I have already heard from several participants who were able to get jobs as a result of this year's fair. In Washington, I am a strong supporter of the Make It In America agenda, which looks to strengthen American manufacturing and bring back jobs that were shipped overseas.Indianas economy has been improving, but we still need to make sure that all Hoosiers have an… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-leads-house-effort-fully-fund-blackstone-river-valley-national-park Cicilline Leads House Effort to Fully Fund Blackstone River Valley National Park 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House RI David Cicilline C001084 cicilline.house.gov     legacy PAWTUCKET One year after leading the effort in the U.S. House to establish the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) helped secure full funding for the new National Parks operations in 2016. The creation of the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park will help preserve the legacy of Rhode Islands role as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, said Cicilline, who led a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committees Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies to request robust funding for the National Park Service. I am delighted that the Federal government will provide full funding to support our new National Park in 2016. I look forward to continuing to work with community leaders in Rhode Island as this process moves ahead. Earlier this month, Congress passed legislation to fund the federal government through September 2016. Included in the bill, which President Obama has signed into law, is $927,000 in funding to fully support operations at the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. Last year, Cicilline introduced and the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources later approved the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park Establishment Act (H.R. 706). The legislation was later included as part of the National Defense Authorization Act that President Obama signed into law in December 2014. The Blackstone River Valley National Park is comprised of sites and districts in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts including the Blackstone River and its tributaries; the Blackstone Canal; the non-contiguous nationally significant historic districts of Old Slater Mill in Pawtucket; the villages of Slatersville (in North Smithfield) and Ashton (in Cumberland) Rhode Island; and Whitinsville and Hopedale in Massachusetts. Spanning from Worcester, MA to Providence, RI, the Blackstone River Valley is the Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. The Valleys beauty and hi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/increased-funding-alzheimer%E2%80%99s-research-federal-spending-bill-will-benefit-rhode-island Increased Funding for Alzheimers Research in Federal Spending Bill Will Benefit Rhode Island 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House RI David Cicilline C001084 cicilline.house.gov     legacy PAWTUCKET During negotiations over federal spending for 2016, U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) successfully advocated to significantly increase funding for Alzheimers disease research. The increase in available funding will also create new opportunities for colleges and universities in Rhode Island, including the University of Rhode Island, which received nearly $14 million in 2012 to improve care for individuals with Alzheimers disease. Currently, available treatments for Alzheimers disease are only able to provide modest relief of symptoms over time, while effective long-term treatments and preventative measures are not yet available. Funding for Alzheimers research is not keeping pace with Medicare and Medicaid spending, Cicilline wrote in a letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee. The federal spending bill passed by Congress earlier this month expanded funding for Alzheimers research from $586 million in 2015 to $936 million in 2016 an increase of nearly 60%. The increase in funding for Alzheimer's initiatives will expand resources available through theU.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including theNational Alzheimer's Project. The Secretary of Health and Human Serviceswill be required to coordinate Alzheimer's disease research and services across all federal agencies to accelerate the development of treatments that would prevent, halt, or reverse the course of Alzheimer's disease. This includes vital NIH research efforts to identify research priorities andmilestonesas well as expand research aimed at preventing and treating Alzheimer's. According to the Alzheimers Association, more than 5.3 million Americans, including 22,000 Rhode Islanders, are living with Alzheimers disease today. By 2025, the number of Americans with Alzheimers disease is expected to increase to 7.1 million. Experts believe robust funding for Alzheimers research could help develop a cure by 2025. The development of a treatment by 2025 could save the United States as much … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gosar.house.gov/press-release/rep-gosar-circulates-legislation-strip-medal-freedom-bill-cosby Rep. Gosar Circulates Legislation to Strip Medal of Freedom from Bill Cosby 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House AZ Paul Gosar G000565 gosar.house.gov     legacy PRESCOTT, A.Z. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after circulating a Dear Colleague letter inviting his fellow members of Congress to cosponsor legislation that he will introduce next week affirming a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and that will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked: The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not something to be taken lightly and such an honor must come with responsibility and accountability. No doubt, Bill Cosby has made cultural contributions to public life in the United States as both an entertainer and as an advocate for social causes. However, the shocking admissions of Cosby during a 2005 deposition, the harrowing accounts of more than 50 women of Cosbys sexual assault and drugging as well as Cosbys arrest for three felony counts of sexual assault make him unfit to retain our nations highest civilian honor. When approached, President Obama stated there is no mechanism to revoke the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Cosby, making it is necessary to establish a formal removal process in order to protect the integrity of this award. For this reason, I will introduce legislation that ensures there is a mechanism in place to strip Cosby, or anyone else found dishonorarable, of the Medal of Freedom. Furthermore, it is true that there is a presumption of innocence in the American legal system, and rightly so. While our criminal justice system will ultimately determine whether Cosby serves jail time for the 2004 incident, Montgomery County prosecutors made clear in their Affidavit of Probable Cause yesterday that Bill Cosby has likely been drugging women for years. Cosbys own admissions to drugging women for sex place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. To continue honoring Bill Cosby with this prestigious accolade would be an affront to women nationwide,… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://kathleenrice.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=259 On New Years Eve, Rep. Rice & Anti-DWI Advocates Introduce New Legislation Requiring Advanced DWI-Prevention Technology in All New Cars 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House NY Kathleen Rice R000602 kathleenrice.house.gov     legacy GARDEN CITY, NY U.S. Representative Kathleen Rice held a press conference today with anti-DWI advocates to introduce new legislation requiring that within 10 years, all new cars sold in the U.S. come equipped with advanced DWI-prevention technology that detects a drivers blood alcohol content (BAC) and prevents the car from moving if the drivers BAC is at or above the legal limit. The advanced technology is currently being developed through the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) program, a research partnership between the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS), which represents 17 leading automobile manufacturers. In June, 2015, NHTSA and ACTS unveiled prototypes of touch-based and breath-based technologies, which will be integrated into vehicles for further testing as researchers work to develop final products. The touch-based technology responds to the touch of a drivers fingertip and uses infrared light to measure the drivers BAC. Unlike a breathalyzer, the DADSS breath-based technology does not require a driver to breathe into a tube a driver simply enters the vehicle and breathes normally, and sensors detect the drivers BAC using infrared light. Rices legislation, the End Drunk Driving Act, will require the technology to be installed in all new cars sold in the U.S. within 10 years of the bills enactment. The legislation significantly boosts funding for the DADSS program to help ensure that the technology will be fully developed, tested and ready for commercial use within 10 years. More information about the DADSS program, including a video demonstration of how the technology works, can be found here. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan found that requiring DWI-prevention technology in all new cars sold in the U.S. could prevent an estimated 85% of all drunk driving-related fatalities over 15 years, saving more than 59,000 lives. It could also prevent an estimated 1.25 million nonfatal drunk dr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398665 Looking Ahead to 2016 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House MO Blaine Luetkemeyer L000569 luetkemeyer.house.gov     legacy With 2015 officially in the books, we can now look ahead to 2016 and build on what the House was able to accomplish last year. share: f t With 2015 officially in the books, we can now look ahead to 2016 and build on what the House was able to accomplish last year. I am ready to get the ball rolling early. In the coming weeks, the House is expected to vote on my legislation, the Providing Accountability through Transparency Act. This legislation would require each government agency, in providing notice of a rule making, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule. Government agencies create long-winded rules each and every day and this bill requires a short summary and ensures the agency will provide a web link at regulations.gov to make the proposed rule accessible to all Americans. Of course, Ill keep fighting against the onerous new rules and regulations being issued by the Obama Administration, but it is very important that the American people have the opportunity to read, in plain language, what is being proposed. Also this year, I will continue oversight of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, maintain a leading role in the debate over Missouri River management, and support legislation that helps our nations veterans. In addition, it is my hope the House will start working on tax reform in 2016. Families and small businesses deserve a tax code that is simple and fair and it is long overdue for the House to start the process of overhauling the more than four million words that are in todays tax code. In 2015, the House passed major bills addressing education, transportation, tax relief, and lifting the ban on crude oil. The House will continue to build on its plan to keep our nation secure and a plan to create jobs, end economic uncertainty, and make America more competitive. As we enter 2016, please remember that my offices located in Jefferson City, Wentzville, Washington, Mo., and Washington,… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://reichert.house.gov/press-release/rep-reichert-named-one-most-effective-members-congress Rep. Reichert Named One of the Most Effective Members of Congress 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House WA Dave Reichert R000578 reichert.house.gov     legacy Recently, the University of Virginias and Vanderbilt Universitys Legislative Effectiveness Project ranked U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert as one of the most effective Members of Congress between 2013 and 2014. Specifically, Rep. Reichert earned the second-highest score among Washington State lawmakers after Rep. Doc Hastings who is now retired, ranking 27th among Republicans, and 28th among all 435 House members. This past year, Rep. Reichert has built upon his achievements from previous congressional terms and has continued to focus his efforts on growing jobs in Washington, enabling Americans to keep more of their hard earned dollars, and keeping our communities safe. Here are some of the highlights from 2015: Named Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee: Rep. Reichert was given the opportunity to lead the Ways and Means Committee, Subcommittee on Trade and champion some of the issues that have the greatest impact on Washingtonians. Throughout the year, Rep. Reichert also continued to supporttrade in Washington by fighting for the reauthorization of the Ex-Im Bank and serving as the lead advocate in Congress to resolve the West Coast Ports dispute. He is also a member of the President's Export Council. Served as Chairman of the Tax Subcommittee: Prior to being named as Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee, Rep. Reichert chaired the Subcommittee on Tax Policy, where he focused on reforming the tax code to make it work better for American workers, families and businesses. Now as the Chairman Emeritus and second in seniority, he will continue reforming the outdated tax code. Named Conferee to Customs and Highway Conference Negotiations: With a bipartisan, bicameral group of colleagues, Rep. Reichert worked to negotiate two important bills for the American people. This years Highway Bill is the first long term highway bill in a decade, giving states the certainty they need to invest in long-term infrastructure projects.The Highway Bill also included Rep. Reicherts language advising states to strengthen laws regarding s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://scalise.house.gov/press-release/icymi-scalise-barton-op-ed-dallas-morning-news-praises-benefits-lifting-ban ICYMI: Scalise-Barton Op-Ed In Dallas Morning News Praises Benefits Of Lifting The Ban 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House LA Steve Scalise S001176 scalise.house.gov     legacy METAIRIE, LA. -Congressman Joe Barton (R-TX) and Congressman Steve Scalise (R-La.) penned a joint opinion editorial published in The Dallas Morning News titled Develop American resources, create American jobs.As of December 18, 2015, the nearly forty-year-old ban on crude oil exports has been lifted, thanks in part to Scalises leadership in the House. The op-ed touts the job-creating and economy-growing benefits for the state of Louisiana and our region. Excerpts from the op-ed are below: Let us develop the resources of our land These words, the beginning of a quotation of Daniel Webster, are emblazoned upon a plaque hung prominently in the House of Representatives chamber. They certainly hold true today as Republicans work to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, make life more affordable for hardworking families and bolster Americas national security. Throughout the Gulf Coast region, our oil and gas industry remains the heartbeat of our economy an amazing success story that creates good-paying jobs by providing homegrown energy to America and our allies. In Texas and Louisiana alone, the oil and gas industry supports well over 2 million jobs directly and indirectly,from oil patch workers to engineers, service industry workers to truck drivers, computer programmers and more. The average salary of an oil and gas industry worker in the Gulf Coast region is about $80,000 a year, and the industry contributes tens of billions of dollars to our regional economy.With results like these, every state blessed with valuable energy resources should have the same opportunity to replicate our success. But for years, President Barack Obama has been trying to reverse these opportunities by imposing radical regulations that are rooted in a failed cap-and-trade scheme. With these and other wrong-headed policies, the president and his administration are waging a notorious War on Coal that is hurting American workers and their families. Just this month, the president met with the leaders of other nations in Paris to pursue… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stewart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-stewart-and-house-intelligence-committee-launch-investigation-into Rep. Stewart and House Intelligence Committee Launch Investigation into Spying Allegations 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House UT Chris Stewart S001192 stewart.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. -- As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah) joined his committee colleagues in opening an investigation into the Obama Administration's practice of spying on members of Congress and some friendly foreign leaders. The Wall Street Journal has reported that the United States collected information on private exchanges between members of Congress and the Israeli Prime Minister during the Iran nuclear deal negotiations. This comes two years after President Obama announced he would no longer eavesdrop on friendly heads of state. Additionally, the law states that any intercepted communication between a U.S. government official and a foreign target must be destroyed unless the NSA Director grants a waiver. At this time, Congress is aware of no such waiver. "If the Wall Street Journal report is correct, we've got a real problem, Stewart said. "The National Security Agency already has a strained relationship with the American people, and breaking our privacy laws only weakens that relationship.Next week, the House Intelligence Committee is expected to meet with members of the Intelligence Community to get some answers to these very serious allegations." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://visclosky.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/visclosky-announces-2016-town-forum-schedule Visclosky Announces 2016 Town Forum Schedule 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House IN Peter Visclosky V000108 visclosky.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, Congressman Pete Visclosky announced the following 2016 schedule for Town Forums that will be held throughout Indianas First Congressional District. Thursday January 14, 2016 10:00 a.m. Crown Point Community Library 122 North Main Street Crown Point, Indiana 46307 12:00 p.m. Dyer Town Hall One Town Square Dyer, Indiana 46311 2:00 p.m. East Chicago City Hall Council Chambers 4525 Indianapolis Boulevard East Chicago, Indiana 46312 4:00 p.m. Wicker Park Social Center 2215 Ridge Road Highland, Indiana 46322 6:00 p.m. Purdue University Calumet Student Union Library Building Room with a View 2200 169th Street Hammond, Indiana 46323 Friday January 15, 2016 10:00 a.m. Michigan City City Hall Council Chambers 100 East Michigan Boulevard Michigan City, Indiana 46360 12:00 p.m. Chesterton Town Hall 726 Broadway Chesterton, Indiana 46304 2:00 p.m. Porter County Government Center County Commissioners Chambers 155 Indiana Avenue Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 4:00 p.m. Portage City Hall 6070 Central Avenue Portage, Indiana 46368 6:00 p.m. Hobart Community Center 111 East Old Ridge Road Hobart, Indiana 46342 Saturday January 16, 2016 12:00 p.m. Gary Public Library Woodson Branch 501 South Lake Street Gary, Indiana 46403 2:00 p.m. Merrillville Town Hall 7820 Broadway Merrillville, Indiana 46410 Please note that all times listed are Central Standard Time. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://desantis.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8B7562DD-8121-46C9-908D-FCA0694BC793 DeSantis Seeks Answers on Israel, Congressional Spying 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House FL Ron DeSantis D000621 desantis.house.gov     legacy St. Augustine, FL – Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL-06), Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, has signed onto a letter to Admiral Michael S. Rogers, Director of the National Security Agency (NSA), concerning recent allegations that the NSA intercepted and provided to the Executive Branch communications between member of Congress and the Israeli government. The letter can be read here. DeSantis issued the following statement: “While the Obama Administration was negotiating a nuclear deal with the world–s leading state sponsor of terrorism, they were simultaneously spying on and trying to undermine our closest ally in the region, Israel. That this spying may very well have swept up the communications of members of Congress, which represents an affront to the separation of powers. Congress needs to investigate how the Obama administration used this information and determine whether it shared information gleaned from this spying with Iran." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gosar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2427 Rep. Gosar Circulates Legislation to Strip Medal of Freedom from Bill Cosby 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House AZ Paul Gosar G000565 gosar.house.gov     legacy PRESCOTT, A.Z. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after circulating a Dear Colleague letter inviting his fellow members of Congress to cosponsor legislation that he will introduce next week affirming a mechanism for the president to strip Bill Cosby of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and that will impose criminal penalties for anyone who wears or publicly displays a Presidential Medal of Freedom that has been revoked: The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not something to be taken lightly and such an honor must come with responsibility and accountability. No doubt, Bill Cosby has made cultural contributions to public life in the United States as both an entertainer and as an advocate for social causes. However, the shocking admissions of Cosby during a 2005 deposition, the harrowing accounts of more than 50 women of Cosby's sexual assault and drugging as well as Cosby's arrest for three felony counts of sexual assault make him unfit to retain our nation's highest civilian honor. When approached, President Obama stated there is no mechanism to revoke the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Cosby, making it is necessary to establish a formal removal process in order to protect the integrity of this award. For this reason, I will introduce legislation that ensures there is a mechanism in place to strip Cosby, or anyone else found dishonorarable, of the Medal of Freedom. Furthermore, it is true that there is a presumption of innocence in the American legal system, and rightly so. While our criminal justice system will ultimately determine whether Cosby serves jail time for the 2004 incident, Montgomery County prosecutors made clear in their Affidavit of Probable Cause yesterday that Bill Cosby has likely been drugging women for years. Cosby's own admissions to drugging women for sex place him outside the bounds of whom we should admire in our society. To continue honoring Bill Cosby with this prestigious accolade would be an affront to women nationw… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=3DE01CDD-69C8-2FFE-24E4-307D7AE55664 Bennet Announces Recommendations from Advisory Committee to Fill Federal Court Vacancies 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CO Michael Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov     legacy Washington, DC - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced that the bipartisan advisory committee he convened to recommend applicants to fill an upcoming vacancy on the U.S. District Court of Colorado has selected three nominees. After interviewing 11 candidates the committee chose Magistrate Judge Kristin Mix, Regina Rodriguez, and Sam Walker. "We are very grateful to the committee for all of their work to select the most highly qualified candidates to serve," Bennet said. "We look forward to having the opportunity to review their applications and speak with each candidate in person." The upcoming vacancy is created by Judge Robert Blackburn's taking senior status in April of 2016. Given the overwhelming dockets currently faced by the courts, the advisory committee was formed in October in advance of Judge Blackburn's departure, to ensure the seat was filled in a timely manner. The committee was co-chaired by Hal Haddon, former co-chair of previous advisory panels and a Denver lawyer, and Candy Figa, a prominent attorney in the Denver metro area, who has also been active in civic affairs, including serving as a City Councilmember and Mayor Pro tem of Greenwood Village and on the 18th Judicial Nominating Commission. The bipartisan nature of the committee reflects Senator Bennet's interest in a nonpartisan, merit selection system that is consistent with the University of Denver's Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System's (IAALS) recommended process. "The entire applicant pool was exceptional. Each candidate had solid credentials and a unique set of experiences that would make them strong additions to Colorado's Federal Bench," said committee co-chair Candy Figa. "While it was difficult to make final selections, we feel very confident in our recommendations and are eager to see the process move forward." # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-statement-on-bonuses-for-ge-workers-in-erie Casey Statement on Bonuses for GE Workers in Erie 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House PA Bob Casey C001070 www.casey.senate.gov     legacy Washington DC U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released a statement following GEs decision on bonuses for local GE workers. On November 18th, Casey urged GE Transportation CEO Jamie Miller to follow through on awarding the bonuses. Caseys original letter is attached. GE has made the right decision by agreeing to pay all of its workers the bonuses they earned. I called on GE to pay these bonuses this November because the workers in Northwestern Pennsylvania, who have made GE a successful company over the years, have earned them. GE made $934 million in profit through the first three quarters of this year. There should never have been a question about paying hardworking employees a couple of thousand dollars each in earned bonuses. In the new year Ill continue to press GE to commit to returning work to its Erie facility when orders increase. An increase in orders should result in the rehiring of workers in Erie instead of jobs being shipped to Texas. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/commentary/review-2015-senate-gets-work Review of 2015: Senate Gets to Work 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House IA Charles Grassley G000386 www.grassley.senate.gov     legacy By U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley At years end, most Americans take stock of the previous 12 months and consider if they met their goals for the year. A review of ones bank account, pay stub or job status and even a peek at the bathroom scale give folks a pretty good idea if they stayed true to their New Years resolutions. When the 114th Congress gaveled to order this past January, it marked the first time since 2006 that Republicans controlled both the House and Senate. The new leadership vowed to live up to the promises and expectations of the 2014 midterm elections and restore order to the peoples branch. The U.S. Senate succeeded in breathing life back into the worlds greatest deliberative body. In fact, the Senate held 163 roll call votes on floor amendments, compared to only 18 the previous year. Lawmakers performed oversight, drafted legislation, considered nominations and kept the federal government open for business. Restoring regular order ought to be considered the rule, not the exception as far as Im concerned. Considering that public opinion polls rank Congress among the least popular institutions in society, lawmakers are obligated to work towards restoring credibility and fundamental trust in our system of self-government. An appraisal of the first 12 months of the year reflects promises made and promises kept. Congress prioritized results that matter and advanced public policies that have substantive consequence on the daily lives of American families. Three key items that had evaded resolution for years in Washington were advanced by the Republican-led Congress and signed into law this year, including: approval of a five-year reauthorization of the federal transportation funding law that eluded bipartisan agreement for years. If theres one item that gets people animated at town meetings, its maintaining reliable roads and bridges. Rural Americans, in particular, typically commute longer distances in their own vehicles and need dependable roads to send and receive goods in the marketplace. The $… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/what-others-are-saying?ContentRecord_id=a02a9ecf-771c-4dae-8e16-314a00ed8d7b Marietta Daily Journal: Isakson's Year in Review: What the Republican Congress did 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House GA Johnny Isakson I000055 www.isakson.senate.gov     legacy By Don McKee Georgias senior U.S. senator, Johnny Isakson, says the biggest accomplishment of the Republican-majority Congress in 2015 was the approval of an omnibus appropriations bill for the first time in seven years. Congress actually went through the process of appropriating rather than doing continuing resolutions and rather than having a government thats on cruise control and continues to spend money like it always did, the senator said in a post-session telephone interview. Probably that accomplishment more than anything else is something that gives us hope, because we had a lot of things that needed to be addressed both from an enhancement standpoint as well as a reduction standpoint, Isakson said. As for measures sponsored by Republicans, Isakson cited first the Clay Hunt suicide prevention act named for a young Texas Marine veteran who took his own life in 2011. The law provides better access to mental health resources aimed at preventing suicides which average about 22 a day among veterans. Its already being implemented around the country and were beginning to get some meaningful reductions in suicide incidents in our veterans population, said the senator. This is an issue close to Isaksons heart, and he has wielded his influence as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee to bring about reforms in the VA and increased funding for veterans health care. He also has a lot of other irons in the fire as chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Ethics. Isakson ticked off other accomplishments of congressional Republicans. We passed a Keystone Pipeline bill to get Canadian crude down to Texas for refining but the president vetoed it but we put it on his desk, which was important, the senator said. We did a defense authorization bill for the first time in a couple of years. We did the trade promotion authority to give the president authority for fast track negotiations on trade. We passed repeal of Obamacare on the reconciliation bill, which the president will veto, but we passed it… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=953433ca-dba4-46a1-adbc-256d0a4bc7fb Sen. Murray & Rep. Larsen Applaud Department of Navy Decision to Keep Whidbey Island WIC Office Open 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Democrat House WA Patty Murray M001111 www.murray.senate.gov     legacy For months, Murray and Larsen urgedtheDepartment of the Navyto reconsider closure of WIC office, calling closure unacceptable WIC office will continue to serve close to 700 people connected to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (Washington, D.C.) Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA) applaudednews from the Department of Navy, which reversed its decision to close the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) office at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI). The WIC officehas been offered the opportunity to operate under a five-year lease directed by the Secretary of the Navy, without paying exorbitant building lease fees. Close to 700 people connected to NASWI use the servicesatthe WIC office, which offers supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for pregnant women, infants, and children up to age five. The announcement that this vital assistance wont be shut down is great news for hundreds of servicemembers and military families who rely on this program to give their children a healthy start, Senator Murraysaid.I was proud to fight for this decision to be reversed for the military community that sacrifices so much for their country. Making sure our military families have the support they need to put food on the table is the least we should be doing, and this WIC office is an important part of making that happen for so many people in the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island community. "I am glad that the Navy has come to this common sense decision. Community Action provides critical services in Skagit and Island Counties, including WIC, and I am pleased that military families will continue to have access to these nutrition programs on the base,"Congressman Larsensaid. "As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I will continue to fight for military families. Those who sacrifice for our country should not have to worry about whether they can afford their next meal." "On behalf of the Navy WIC families we s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/fighting-for-florida?ContentRecord_id=368eafdd-9445-46c1-94e4-8378b8c157d6 Looking Back on 2015, Excited about 2016 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Republican House FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy As we look ahead to what promises to be an exciting and eventful 2016, my wife, Jeanette, and I would like to pause for a moment to reflect and give thanks for the year we are leaving behind. Although Washington continues to be a dysfunctional place that is out of touch and lacks the presidential leadership to confront the big challenges facing our country, I'm proud of the work my office and I did to make a real difference.With a chance to finally serve in a Republican Senate majority, 2015 proved to be our most impactful year in serving the people of Florida in the U.S. Senate. We learned that our successful effort to stop the taxpayer-funded bailout of health insurance companies that lose money under ObamaCare ended upsaving taxpayers $2.5 billionover the past year. And when the health insurers came back this year to get bailed out,we stopped themonce again. A bill I introduced to sanction the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hezbollahbecame law, providing the U.S. with an important tool to deprive these savages of money to rain rockets down on Israel and carry out terror attacks against U.S. assets, allies and interests throughout the Middle East. To combat the growing global crisis of children who never receive birth certificates - and its long-term consequences - I introduced and helped enact into law theGirls Count Act, which directs U.S. foreign assistance to aid countries in setting up birth registries. This new law will help ensure that millions of kids, the majority of them young girls, are not subjected to exploitation, human trafficking and social exclusion because they lack birth certificates to prove their identity. I was able to play a leading role inre-authorizing the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, which literally does the Lord's work in defending people around the world whose right to freely practice their faith is under assault. As part of my foreign policy work, it has also been a great honor serving as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee's Subcommittee on West… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/old-man-wanted-more-than-money-in-branson-bank-robbery Old man wanted more than money in Branson bank robbery 2015-12-31 2015 2015-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy Old man wanted more than money in Branson bank robbery By: Harrison Keegan Thursday, December 31, 2015 Joseph Cyrus could barelyget the words out. He knew what he wanted to say, but he didn't want to break down in the courtroom. Cyrus' lawyer told him it was OK. Hecould wait until the sentencing hearing in a few months if he wanted.But the 77-year-oldCyrus couldn't wait. A proud man, Cyruscouldn't go another day without explaining himself. "I wanted to be caught, your honor," Cyrus said from his wheelchair last month at the federal courthouse in Springfield."I wanted to get some help from the United States government." A masked Cyrus robbed the Central Bank on James Epps Road in Branson on Oct. 16, pointing what he says wasa plastic BBgunat the tellers. The reason he committed the crime, he said, was to get access to health care in the federal prison system. Continue reading here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://barletta.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lou-barletta-2015-year-in-review Rep. Lou Barletta: 2015 Year in Review 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House PA Lou Barletta B001269 barletta.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Lou Barletta, PA-11, today reviewed the year 2015 in the United States House of Representatives and highlighted some notable improvements and achievements. Among the important issues covered during the year were continuing the fight against illegal immigration, protecting national security interests from refugees and problems with visas, preserving funding for SHINE, preventing heavier trucks from hitting the highways, and protecting steel jobs in Pennsylvania. Barletta indicated that he would continue the fight on those and other important issues as the 114th Congress resumes on January 5, 2016. The world is changing rapidly, and Congress must continue to work to address the evolving challenges we face as a nation, Barletta said. In 2015, we addressed many of those needs, and also found solutions to problems we have long been facing. But theres still work to be done. Barletta Priorities in Highway Bill Rep. Barletta, a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was among House conferees appointed to negotiate the particulars of a five-year $305 billion Highway Bill, which included many of Barlettas highest priorities for the U.S. transportation system and its infrastructure. While voting for the bill, Barletta did express disappointment that the bill was a missed opportunity to develop serious reforms in transportation funding. Among Barlettas victories in the final bill were: Defeating Truck Weight Increase: Barletta was able to defeat efforts that would have increased the weight limit for trucks from 80,000 pounds to 91,000 pounds. Barletta said that local roads were not built to handle the increased weight, and the heavier trucks would pose a greater danger to their drivers and other motorists. Making Railway Cars Safer: Barletta successfully amended the highway bill to require railway tank cars carrying flammable liquids to be equipped with protections for their pressure safety valves. Newer tank cars already have this type of feature, but the legislation requires olde… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cicilline.house.gov/press-release/cicilline-releases-2015-year-end-report Cicilline Releases 2015 Year-End Report 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House RI David Cicilline C001084 cicilline.house.gov     legacy PAWTUCKET U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline today released a 2015 Year-End Report that highlights some of the work his office completed this year in four key areas: getting Rhode Islanders back to work, promoting efficiency in government, delivering federal resources to Rhode Island, and leading on critical policy issues. As 2015 draws to a close, I am extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity you have given me to represent you in the Congress of the United States, wrote Cicilline. The progress we have made would never have been possible if it werent for the active support and engagement I have received from folks all across Rhode Islands First District. I want to sincerely thank you for the work that you do. It is an honor to serve on your behalf. A copy of Congressman Cicillines 2015 Year-End Report can be downloaded by clicking here. Among the highlights included in the report are: Helped deliver $335.5 million in federal funding back to Rhode Island. Introduced and passed the Brickle Amendment into law, requiring the Departments of Defense and State to publicly document their work to notify American manufacturers regarding overseas procurement opportunities. Worked with Republican Congressman Steve Chabot to introduce and pass the Small Business Investment Company Capital Act through the House to expand access to capital for small businesses. Assisted with 1,437 constituent requests for casework, including help with Social Security benefits, IRS tax refunds, health care services, and more. Responded to 20,883 letters and emails from constituents. -30- 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cohen.house.gov/press-release/cohen-commends-mayor-wharton-city-memphis-completion-restoration-airways-boulevard Cohen Commends Mayor Wharton, City of Memphis on Completion of Restoration of Airways Boulevard Bridge 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House TN Steve Cohen C001068 cohen.house.gov     legacy [MEMPHIS, TN] Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) commended Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. and the City of Memphis today on the completion of the restoration of the Airways Boulevard Bridge over Noncannah Creek, bringing to a close the $5.5 million project that will grant Memphians safer and more expedient access to the Memphis International Airport, and that will keep the surrounding area active and accessible. The project to replace the Airways Boulevard Bridge was a collaborative effort between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the City of Memphis, and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA). The Airways Boulevard Bridge is an important fixture in our Memphis economy, said Congressman Cohen. The airport is the gateway to Memphis, and the Airways Boulevard Bridge is the pathway many travelers rely on to transport them safely to and from that gateway. I am pleased that the City of Memphis was able to secure such robust federal funding through FEMA in order to restore the bridge to safe, working order, and that the citizens of Memphis will be able to utilize the restored bridge having used only a small portion of city funds. The City of Memphis must continue to work to receive its fair portion of federal dollars. I was pleased on December 18th to have voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus federal spending bill, which included the $4 million increase I requested for funding to end the rape kit backlog, made permanent the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, the education tax credit for college students and teachers, and included funding to federal agencies such as FEMA so that they can continue to provide much-needed federal dollars to cities like Memphis for vital restoration projects such as the Airways Boulevard Bridge. Completion of the bridge will help Memphians and visitors travel to and from the Memphis International Airport, and I am pleased that the City of Memphis was able to work with state and federal agencies to complete this important restoration project. The $5.5 millio… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://jasonsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-jason-smith-organizes-open-town-hall-meeting-at-clara Congressman Jason Smith organizes open Town Hall Meeting at Clara Drinkwater Library to discuss Mississippi River Levels and surrounding Levees 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House MO Jason Smith S001195 jasonsmith.house.gov     legacy Cape Girardeau, MO On Thursday, December 31, 2015 at 4pm, Congressman Jason Smith invites residents and media to speak directly with the Army Corps on the recent record rainfall and current levels on the Mississippi River. The meeting will provide an opportunity for the Army Corps and others to give a status update on current river levels, projected levels, and what the plan is for each levee. After the update, residents and the media will have a chance to ask questions. WHO: U.S. Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08) Major General Wehr, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division Colonel Anderson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi Valley Division Sam E. Angel, Mississippi River Valley Commission The Honorable Norma Jean Mattei, Mississippi River Valley Commission WHAT:Status update and discussion on recent record rainfall and Levee integrity WHERE:Clara Drinkwater Library, 105 E Marshall St, Charleston, MO WHEN: Thursday, December 31, 4pm ***Members of the media are invited to the meeting*** 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/martin-luther-king-day-federal-offices-closed Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House NJ Frank LoBiondo L000554 lobiondo.house.gov     legacy Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed Start: January 18, 2016 End: January 18, 2016 Dec 30, 2015 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/presidents-day-federal-offices-closed-0 President's Day - Federal Offices Closed 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House NJ Frank LoBiondo L000554 lobiondo.house.gov     legacy President's Day - Federal Offices Closed Start: February 15, 2016 End: February 15, 2016 Dec 30, 2015 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398666 Luetkemeyer Ranked Among Most Effective Lawmakers in House of Representatives 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House MO Blaine Luetkemeyer L000569 luetkemeyer.house.gov     legacy Luetkemeyer Ranked Among Most Effective Lawmakers in House of Representatives f t # e Washington, December 30, 2015 In a recent study performed by the Legislative Effectiveness Project (LEP), U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) was ranked Missouris most effective lawmaker. share: f t In a recent study performed by the Legislative Effectiveness Project (LEP), U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) was ranked Missouris most effective lawmaker. The Legislative Effectiveness Project is run by professors at the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University and measures how successful a given representative is at getting things done. The average Legislative Effectiveness Score for any given member in the 113th Congress was 1.0. Luetkemeyer received a 2.344. In addition, Luetkemeyer was ranked 45th out of the 240 Republicans in the House of Representatives. The list can be found here. As a Member of Congress, one of the most important parts of the job is to listen to your constituents and take what they have told you back to Washington to put their concerns and ideas into action. Thats what the legislation that I introduce each year is all about. I am very pleased to be recognized as an effective lawmaker but it does not happen alone. It takes collaboration with and support from my colleagues, along with assistance from my staff, for bills to pass through committees, the House, the Senate, and be enacted into law. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norton-asks-fta-to-help-give-wmata-a-fresh-start-with-a-new-financial Norton Asks FTA to Help Give WMATA a Fresh Start with a New Financial Monitoring Regime That Relieves Agencys Short-Term Borrowing 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House DC Eleanor Norton N000147 norton.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.The office of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), ranking member of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee and one of the Big Four leaders who wrote the recently signed surface transportation legislation, today released her letter to Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Acting Administrator Therese McMillan inquiring whether the new year should bring changes in the current form of FTA monitoring of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to help relieve the transit agency from dependence on short-term borrowing. Norton asked FTA to look into whether a new infusion of federal funding for WMATA, WMATAs new leadership and its new budget and financial controls could lead FTA to use a form of financial monitoring that does not cause WMATA to seek short-term borrowing for its daily operations in the new year. For the past 21 months, FTA has required WMATA to submit all requested federal reimbursements through paper rather than the electronic methods typically used after FTA found serious weaknesses in WMATAs budget and financial controls. In her letter, Norton detailed the material weaknesses FTA found and the extensive changes WMATA has made, but said that she believed WMATA must continue to be under a FTA monitoring regime for now. Norton wrote, As one of the four bipartisan House leaders of the recently enacted FAST Act, I was able to get a 25 percent increase in federal transit funding for the District of Columbia, most of which will go to WMATA for state of good repair capital projects. In addition, working with regional Members, we got the full $150 million capital spending restored. WMATA must take full advantage of this unusual increase....[T]his fundingshould be used as a springboard, not a back-fill. Now would be a good time to encourage a new start, considering whether changes at WMATA, including new leadership, should lead to some changes in the nature of the monitoring process other than paper procedures that have contributed to short term borrowing for operation… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://roby.house.gov/column/new-year-strong-start A New Year, A Strong Start 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House AL Martha Roby R000591 roby.house.gov     legacy As the House convenes for the Second Session of the 114th Congress, it is important to get off to a strong start. Thats why Im pleased the very first bill to be considered this year is a plan to repeal Obamacare and begin the process of replacing it with healthcare policy that works. It is past time for this law to go.Under Obamacare, many in Alabama and throughout the country lost the health plans they liked. Many have been forced to go to different doctors, to say nothing of the doctors who stopped practicing altogether. Premiums skyrocketed and many middle class families are being impacted by new taxes, fees and penalties. I wouldnt blame you for thinking, So what? The House has voted to repeal Obamacare dozens of times. Its true that my colleagues and I in the House have voted more than 50 times to repeal, defund or replace the presidents health care law. And, each time, our efforts are ultimately blocked in the Senate, where Republicans lack the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster. Whats different this time? This time our plan was carefully crafted to follow the Senates special Reconciliation rule that allows certain budget-related legislation to go through by a majority vote regardless of a filibuster. The Senate came through in late 2015 passing the Obamacare repeal reconciliation package by a vote of 52-47. That means when the House takes up and passes the measure first thing this year, we will finally send a bill repealing Obamacare to the presidents desk. Some may quibble that this is somehow an empty gesture. After all, President Obama will never sign a bill repealing his signature legislative achievement and the law that bears his name. However, as veteran lawmakers like Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) have pointed out, forcing a veto puts accountability for this deceptive, costly healthcare law squarely on President Obama. It also sends a clear message to the American people that, under a new president in 2017, Congress stands ready to replace this disast… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://stivers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398853 No Child Should Ever Be Without a Home 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House OH Steve Stivers S001187 stivers.house.gov     legacy Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress. This report provides a point-in-time count of homeless Americans, an estimate which is based upon the numbers collected on one particular night in January. The count includes homeless individuals living in shelters, and those identified by volunteers who survey places such as streets, parks, rail stations and all-night businesses where those who are homeless frequently seek shelter. share: f t Recently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released its Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress. This report provides a point-in-time count of homeless Americans, an estimate which is based upon the numbers collected on one particular night in January. The count includes homeless individuals living in shelters, and those identified by volunteers who survey places such as streets, parks, rail stations and all-night businesses where those who are homeless frequently seek shelter. In 2015, HUD identified 128,000 homeless children under the age of 18 in the United States. This reflects a 5.8 percent decrease from the numbers it released for 2014. While a decrease in the number of homeless youth would be cause to celebrate, unfortunately, these numbers dont provide a complete picture of the problem. In fact, the HUD survey does not consider the places most homeless families and youth can be found, which is staying temporarily with other people, or in motels. By comparison, the Department of Education, which does consider these living arrangements, identified more than 1.3 million homeless children and youth in the 2013-2014 school year, a number that was UP from 2012-2013. Two different federal agencies with two completely different stories to tell as it relates to homeless youth -- this is a discrepancy we must fix to ensure that the federal government has accurate data and the information it needs to best s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://tipton.house.gov/press-release/tipton-statement-usfs-ski-area-water-rights-directive Tipton Statement on USFS Ski Area Water Rights Directive 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House CO Scott Tipton T000470 tipton.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONToday, Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) issued this statement in response to the U.S. Forest Services publication of the final directive for the Ski Area Water Clause in the federal record. The Forest Services conditional use of permit for ski areas has been one of the Administrations most onerous attempts to hijack private water rights. While the latest version of the directive is improved from the original that sought to outright force the transfer of private water rights to the federal government, there still is room for improvement. The latest rendition of this ill-fated directive places unnecessary restrictions on private water rights holders, in an attempt to solve a problem that doesnt exist. By the Forest Service Chiefs own admission, there has not been an instance of ski area water rights being sold off for other uses. Furthermore, there is still ongoing concern that while the Forest Service may not require the outright transfer of private water rights in this directive, it is still enforcing manuals that do. Western water users are right to be wary of any action on water rights by this Administration, which has been dead set on slowly expanding federal control over water in the Western U.S. We continue to work on getting legislative protections in place to codify state water law and defend private water rights users from federal taking and interference as our Water Rights Protection Act seeks to do. Despite the Forest Services insistence that under the new ski area permit condition it will no longer require the transfer of water rights, Forest Service manual 2441.32 (Possessory Interests), which is currently being enforced, instructs the agency to continue to claim water rights of permittees. It is unclear if or how the Forest Service plans to reconcile the conflicting instructions. Section 2541.32 of the 2007 Forest Service Water Uses and Development Manual directs: Claim possessory interest in water rights in the name of the United States for water uses on National Forest System lands a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398564 Upton Reviews 2015 and Looks Ahead to 2016 in New Report 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today released a new report titled 2015: The Year in Review and a Look Ahead which outlines many of the legislative and policy priorities his office tackled in 2015 and looks towards the new year. We had a busy year working to move the ball down the field by focusing on commonsense, bipartisan solutions to problems faced by families and businesses here in Southwest Michigan and across the country, said Upton, who also chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Im proud of the progress weve made on a host of fronts, and look forward to the new year as we still have much work yet to be done as we pursue an ambitious, pro-growth agenda. Im excited and optimistic about the opportunities before us as we continue to get the job done for everyone in Southwest Michigan. The report breaks down specific policy areas in which Congressman Upton has been a bipartisan community leader; jobs and the economy, healthcare innovation, veterans care, homeland security, education, the Great Lakes, Medicare and Medicaid, agriculture, opioid abuse, infrastructure, and the Internet. Click HERE to read the report. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-marc-veasey-s-two-terms-in-review Congressman Marc Veaseys Two Terms in Review 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House TX Marc Veasey V000131 veasey.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, released the following statement reviewing his key legislative accomplishments since being sworn into office in 2013 and work he has done on behalf of the residents in the 33rd Congressional District: As 2015 draws to a close, I would like to take some time to reflect on some of the key legislative goals we have accomplished for the 33rd Congressional District since 2013. After hearing your concerns regarding affordable and reliable transportation for seniors through Handitran in Arlington, I offered an amendment to the long-term transportation and infrastructure bill which was approved by 363-64 vote to reinstate funding for transit services for the elderly and disabled. Transit providers that offer paratransit service in our community, like Handitran, ensure that our elderly and disabled neighbors can remain independent by giving them access to employment, education, healthcare, shopping, and the other services they need. Of great importance to the DFW Metroplex is the recent passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation is very important to the local economy as it will fund vital security programs and increase funding for Lockheed Martins F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I was a key author of the NDAA that passed through Committee and the full House on a bipartisan basis. The passed bill included six of my amendments, including my amendment that evaluated how recent Executive Actions regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program and prosecutorial discretion for undocumented immigrants currently residing in the U.S. impact our nations military readiness if these individuals are made eligible for enlistment. As a strong advocate for North Texas Families, I voted in favor of the two-year Bipartisan Budget Deal and FY2016 Omnibus to help grow our economy and build economic security by investing in job training programs, advanced manufacturing, educat… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-murphy-himes-pool-safety-grants-for-bridgeport-and-stamford Blumenthal, Murphy, Himes Applaud over $206,000 in Pool Safety Grants for Bridgeport and Stamford 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal, Murphy, Himes Applaud over $206,000 in Pool Safety Grants for Bridgeport and Stamford Print Tweet U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Grants Awarded to Combat Pool and Spa Drownings and Drain Entrapments Wednesday, December 30, 2015 (HARTFORD, CT)- Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-4) applauded $206,225 in grants for the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to provide assistance for education, training, and enforcement of pool safety requirements aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments. The City of Bridgeport will be awarded $74,973 for the Bridgeport Water Safety Awareness Project to expand on current water safety education and compliance efforts, including regular inspections of all public pools by city inspectors and on-site enforcement personnel to ensure compliance with current rules and regulations. The Project will also include free-to-the public swimming instruction. The City of Stamford will be awarded $131,252 for Stamfords Pool Safety Program and will partner with the Stamford Family YMCA to segment their current learn- to- swim curriculum with the YMCA of the USAs Safety Around Water program, increase the amount of youth receiving water safety education, and expand training and education opportunities for staff and Certified Pool Operators. Drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 to 4 nationwide tragedies that we can and must do more to prevent, said Blumenthal, Murphy and Himes. This critical federal funding will help ensure that the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford can expand on their current water safety initiatives to support more robust pool safety education and compliance, increase access to swimming instruction, and provide meaningful training opportunities… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-confirmation-that-puerto-rico-will-default-on-portion-of-debt-obligations-due-january-4 Blumenthal Statement on Confirmation That Puerto Rico Will Default on Portion of Debt Obligations Due January 4 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Statement on Confirmation That Puerto Rico Will Default on Portion of Debt Obligations Due January 4 Print Tweet Wednesday, December 30, 2015 (Hartford, CT) U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) today released the following statement after top officials from Puerto Rico confirmed that the commonwealth will default on a portion of the nearly $1 billion in debt obligations due to its bondholders on January 4. With Puerto Rico now on the verge of defaulting on tax revenue-backed bonds, the island is open to messy, costly, and completely avoidable lawsuits. Todays announcement is just the latest reminder that Puerto Rico has neither the money to pay off its creditors nor access to an orderly process for restructuring its debt. Congress cannot continue to bury its head in the sand while 3.5 million U.S. citizens in Puerto Rico suffer we must act now. This summer, Blumenthal introduced the Puerto Rico Chapter 9 Uniformity Act which would address the growing fiscal crisis by granting Puerto Rico the authority to allow its municipalities and public utilities to restructure their debts under the supervision of a bankruptcy court, authority which is already currently granted to all U.S. states. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=1f75cd94-3d62-4be9-8515-616901dfce81 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House ND John Hoeven H001061 www.hoeven.senate.gov     legacy 12.30.15 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities Senator Holds Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable in Bismarck with local officials and business leaders to outline key legislative accomplishments that he worked to advance throughout the year and that Congress included in legislation passed this month. Hoeven worked with his congressional colleagues to address North Dakotas priorities and meet the needs of the states families, schools, businesses and farmers across a wide variety of areas, including energy, tax, education, transportation and regulatory policy. We secured important priorities for our state and nation, Hoeven said. We lifted the ban on crude oil exports, provided tax relief, restored local control over education standards and ensured stronger funding for long-term infrastructure projects. These accomplishments will provide considerable benefits for our businesses and our families by promoting greater economic growth and local autonomy. Senator Hoeven helped to successfully pass the following measures through Congress this December: Lifting the Ban on Crude Oil Exports Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, repeatedly called for the repeal of the outdated crude oil export ban and cosponsored bipartisan legislation earlier this year to do just that. Allowing crude oil exports will support domestic energy production, grow the nations economy, provide good jobs for workers, reduce fuel costs for consumers and enhance the security of the U.S. and our allies. Tax Relief for Small Business and Farmers Approved tax relief totaling $680 billion over ten years. Included a permanent extension of Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation and a five-year extension of bonus deprecation, important provisions that provide small businesses certainty and flexibility… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/public-events?ContentRecord_id=6df9171c-2fd6-430b-8453-abbbf6dd55f3 Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House ND John Hoeven H001061 www.hoeven.senate.gov     legacy Event December 30 2016 11:00 AM On Wednesday, December 30, Senator Hoeven will host a roundtable with the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce to review North Dakota legislative priorities that he worked to advance this year and that passed Congress in December, including: Lifting the ban on crude oil exports Providing tax relief for small businesses and farmers Providing regulatory relief for farmers and ranchers through stopping the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Waters of the U.S. regulation Ensuring education funding and local control Providing school meal flexibility in sodium and grain requirements Passing the five-year highway bill, which will provide North Dakota with more than $1.3 billion and enable more than 100 N.D. transportation projects to advance Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce WHEN: Wednesday, December 30 11:00 a.m. CT WHERE: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/get-latest-southern-illinois-flooding-here Get the Latest on the Southern Illinois Flooding, HERE. 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House IL Mike Bost B001295 bost.house.gov     legacy Because I want to do everything I can to provide Southern Illinoisans with the resources they need should this flood damage or destroy property, I am providing residents with the following links for up-to-date information concerning the Flood of 2015. For a list of available Red Cross shelters should you need to evacuate your home or business, clickHERE. For a list of the latestroad closings throughout Southern Illinois, click HERE. Most importantly, please DO NOT attempt to drive your car into a high water area. We have already seen tragedy associated with residents trying to cross roadways in order to get to higher elevations. If you have any questions, please contact my office in Belleville at (618) 233-8026 or in Carbondale at (618) 457-5787. The most important thing you can do is pray for our residents, first responders and all those directly impacted by this flooding. Thank you. Mike. Our next stop was Alexander County where we talked to workers and local officials at the county highway garage in Olive Branch. I'm continuing our tour of areas in the 12th District most prone to flooding or that have already seen flooding. We're now in Grand Tower, one of the areas that may see some of the worst flooding, talking with residents and officials in that community. We've had wonderful response and communication from the Army Corps of Engineers. With me addressing questions from residents and officials in Grand Tower is Major General Michael Wehr. A critical part of getting needed information out to our residents is the local media and I thank them for doing, just that. Reporters from WSIL TV 3 and KFVS TV 12 were here, talking to residents and us about the latest flooding information to pass on to their viewers. Thank you for helping Southern Illinoisans stay informed! In Alton, dozens of volunteers helped place sandbags ahead of where water is expected to rise. Mayor Brant Walker told me flooding was expected in the basements of the downtown business district but they are preparing for the worst. We also met with… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://connolly.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=577 Prince William Living: Connolly's Thoughts on Transportation Issues 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House VA Gerald Connolly C001078 connolly.house.gov     legacy Congressman Connolly shared his thoughts on transportation issues facing Prince William County, and efforts to begin the conversation on extending Metro to Prince William. Read more. share: f t Peter LineberryMetrorail service along the I-95 and I-66 corridors, extending south to Woodbridge and west to Manassas, might be the ultimate revitalization project for Prince William. County officials are clearly in favor of it. But how likely is it to happen, and in what time frame?Gerald “Gerry” Connolly represents Virginia’s Eleventh Congressional District, which encompasses most of Fairfax County and eastern Prince William, as well as part of the Route 66 corridor.  He graciously and exclusively shares his thoughts about Metro and related transportation issues with our online readers.“Community revitalization efforts can breathe new life into a neighborhood and its residents, whether it is as simple as sprucing up a store front or a more grand scale transformation that includes improving how people get to and from the places they want to go. Few things trigger such a visceral reaction in our region as traffic and the amount of time spent stuck in it, and I have spent most of my life in public office advocating for increased investments in transportation.“During my tenure on the [Fairfax] Board of Supervisors, and now in Congress, I have been proud to partner with Prince William County to advance improvements for interstates 95 and 66 and for expanding mass transit services. For example, the Recovery Act alone invested millions of dollars in Prince William to purchase new locomotives for VRE, new buses for PRTC, widen the Prince William County Parkway, and to make other road repairs across the county.“Based on my experience in local government, revitalization efforts that were paired with road and/or transit improvements proved to be the most successful, and, in some cases, those improvements fueled the revitalization itself. Just look at the success of the ne… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costa-says-hate-crime-against-fresno-sikh-man-inexcusable-and Costa Strongly Condemns Hate Crime Against Fresno Sikh Man 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CA Jim Costa C001059 costa.house.gov     legacy Fresno, CA Rep. Jim Costa released the following statement strongly condemning the hate crime against Amrik Singh Bal, a Sikh man from Fresno, California. The hate crime that took place in Fresno on Saturday is both inexcusable and intolerable. Sadly, since September 11, 2001, the Sikh community has endured discrimination because of the lack of understanding about Sikhism, which is based on equality and love. As a nation of immigrants, we have the opportunity to learn and benefit from thousands of different cultures, and that is part of what makes the United States special. We must never forget that. Every American citizen regardless of race, creed, or gender has the right to live free of discrimination and fear. My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Singh and his family. I commend all of the agencies that are working diligently to find the two individuals who are responsible for the attack. In 2013, the U.S. Department of Justice added Sikh to the categories they track for hate crime offenses in the United States, and Rep. Costa applauded that decision. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://costello.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costello-encourages-pa-06-residents-apply-us-passport-early Costello Encourages PA-06 Residents to Apply for U.S. Passport Early 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House PA Ryan Costello C001106 costello.house.gov     legacy West Chester, PA Ahead of 2016, Congressman Ryan Costello (PA-06) took the opportunity to provide the following public service announcement to individuals seeking to obtain or renew a United States passport in the coming year. Recently, Secretary of State John Kerry issued a warning that the 10-year anniversary of the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative may prompt a surge in passport applications, and consequently result in a slower process. The Department estimates that nearly 45 million passports will expire in the next three years, compared to 26 million in the past three years. As State Department staff work to meet their service commitments, they are encouraging travelers to take the necessary steps to start the application process early. Costello echoed the warning for travelers not to wait until the last weeks to renew their passports: If you have plans to travel abroad in the coming year, I encourage you to make sure your passport is up to date well before your departure, said Congressman Costello. Pennsylvania Sixth District residents seeking a passport should submit their application at least 6-8 weeks before their date of travel, particularly if you are submitting an application in the spring or summer months when the volume of applications is larger.For individuals that may run into problems, my casework staff is happy to help constituents ensure the process moves along. Congressman Costellos office urged constituents who are filing as a first time applicant to be sure their birth certificate includes their parents names and raised seal on it.Additionally, many countries require travelers passports to have at least six months validity, so passport holders should not wait for their document to expire prior to submitting the renewal application. Casework staff is available to answer any questions applicants may have. Staff can be reached at the Wyomissing District Office (610) 376-7630 or by visiting Costello.house.gov. For more information on applying for a United States passpo… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-announces-veterans-will-stay-seacrest-retirement-home DeLauro Announces Veterans Will Stay at Seacrest Retirement Home 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy NEW HAVEN, CT (December 30, 2015) Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today announced that Connecticut veterans living in the Seacrest Retirement Center and similar facilities are able to remain in the facility, without the threat of losing benefits or care. The change comes as part of the omnibus bill passed by Congress earlier this month. Veterans living at Seacrest now have the assurance that they will continue to receive the care they deserve. Forcing these veterans to lose their benefits because of an error that was not their fault would have been wrong, and in some cases may not have been in the best interest of their mental or physical well-being, said Rosa DeLauro. After serving our nation, no veteran should ever have to worry about not receiving care, especially in retirement when additional health issues may arise. This legislation gives these veterans the certainty that they deserve, and I applaud Congress for taking action to address this critical issue. On behalf of the men and women who live at Seacrest, and who have protected and defended our country, thank you to Congresswoman DeLauro for working to correct an administrative error by the Veterans Administration, said Lewis Bower, owner of Seacrest. We at Seacrest are forever indebted to the veterans that have served our country, and we are privileged to provide them care. The veterans at Seacrest can now live with assurance from the federal government that their care will be providedfor as result of this legislation. In 2013, 23 veterans at the Seacrest Retirement Center in West Haven, HighVue Manor in Hamden, and Mattatuck Health Care in Waterbury were notified by the VA Connecticut Healthcare System that, due to a VA error, care in these homes has been erroneously covered. The 10 who are being granted another year at Seacrest and HighVue are part of that original group of 23. DeLauro has been working with the VA to ensure that the veterans who would like to stay at Seacrest are able to do so. Earlier this year, DeLauro introduced theVeterans Resi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://donovan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/donovan-blasts-obama-kerry-appeasing-iran-expense-american-security Donovan Blasts Obama, Kerry for Appeasing Iran at Expense of American Security 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House NY Daniel Donovan D000625 donovan.house.gov     legacy Staten Island, NYDecember 30, 2015.Congressman Dan Donovan (NY-11) today voiced strong opposition to the Obama administrations pledge to protect Iranian business interests by waiving Congressionally-mandated travel visa restrictions. Congressman Donovan said, Apparently, Irans business interests come before American security and citizens. Its yet another weak and wrongheaded step in the Obama administrations long road of placating our enemies. At issue is a Donovan-supported measure passed into law as part of the year-end funding package. It requires travelers to obtain a visa before visiting the United States if they have also visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, or Sudan in the past five years. This includes citizens of the 38 countries which participate in a visa-waiver program with the United States. The goal is to make it more difficult for would-be terrorists to enter America. Iran took issue with the security restrictions, arguing they came about as a result of the Zionist lobby and directly contradict the parameters of the nuclear deal agreed to earlier this year. In response, Secretary of State John Kerry penned a letter to his Iranian counterpart assuaging Irans concerns and promising to implement the law so as not to interfere with legitimate business interests of Iran. Donovan continued, Iran still holds American prisoners who were ignored as part of the nuclear negotiations, and Iran violated U.N. missile test restrictions just two months ago. Despite the regimes flagrant disregard for American citizens and international norms, the Obama administration immediately submitted to Irans complaints. Several Americans have been held captive in Iran for years. Even after the nuclear deal, Iran convicted an American reporter on bogus espionage charges and arrested an American businessman. Earlier this month, United Nations experts announced that Iran violated an international resolution when it conducted a missile test in October. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fudge.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1685 Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge Appoints New 11th Congressional District Director, Kevin L. McDaniel 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House OH Marcia Fudge F000455 fudge.house.gov     legacy WARRENSVILLE HEIGHTS, OH - Today, Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) announced the appointment of Kevin L. McDaniel as 11th Congressional District Director. Mr. McDaniel will oversee the Summit County and Cuyahoga County offices starting January 4, 2016. Prior to joining the office, Mr. McDaniel served as Program Director at the United Way of Greater Cleveland, Program Officer at the Cleveland Foundation, and Director of Admissions at Cuyahoga County Community College. Mr. McDaniel has an extensive record of public service and has demonstrated his dedication to the greater Cleveland community. He has the experience and leadership skills necessary to direct and work with my local staff as they continue to serve the people of Ohio's 11th District, said Congresswoman Fudge. Current District Director John Hairston will be retiring after more than four years with the Congresswomans office. Mr. Hairston has had a distinguished career focused on improving the lives of others. He began as an English teacher and later assumed leadership roles as Chief of Communications for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and Director of External Programs at NASA John H. Glenn Research Center. Congresswoman Fudge continued, "John Hairston has served the 11th Congressional District with honor and distinction, and I thank him for his service. John is a public servant, community leader, and a dear friend. He has guided my staff and their District outreach and casework for more than four years and will be missed. I wish him well in retirement! ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://marchant.house.gov/2015/12/30/congress-to-send-obamacare-repeal-planned-parenthood-defunding-to-the-presidents-desk/ Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House TX Kenny Marchant M001158 marchant.house.gov     legacy Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk December 30, 2015 Congress to send Obamacare repeal, Planned Parenthood defunding to the presidents desk Information from Speaker Ryan Press Office December 30, 2015 View Online | http://spkrryan.us/1MH9eWs Next week, for the first time, Congress will send the president a billrepealing Obamacareanddefunding Planned Parenthood. That bill is called theRestoring Americans Healthcare Freedom ReconciliationAct, and you canread it here. Here are three reasons why this bill is so important: Repeals Obamacare.With each passing day, it becomes more apparent that Obamacare is an unmitigated disaster for hardworking families and our economy. Millions of Americans have already been kicked off plans the presidentrepeatedly promisedthey could keep, while countless others face the sticker shock ofdouble-digit premium increases. This bill effectively repeals the mandates and taxes at the heart of the law.This will be the first Obamacare repeal bill that Congress sends to President Obama since the laws enactment in 2010. This, of course, is a critical step in replacing this law with a patient-centered plan as a part of abold, pro-growth agenda. Defunds Planned Parenthood.The horrific videos released earlier this year depicting Planned Parenthood affiliates harvesting and selling fetal body parts should offend everyone regardless of political persuasion. The House has already responded byestablishing a panelfocused on investigating this practice. In the meantime, Americans should not be forced to fund this organization. Thats whyCongress will act to defund Planned Parenthood, and shift those resources to community health centers. Forces President Obamas Hand.Weve worked tirelessly to dismantle Obamacare and protect Americans from this law. All told, weve forced President Obama to signat least 10 billsthat chip away at parts of Obamacare. The recent year-end funding legisla… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://palmer.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/aderholt-only-alabama-republican-vote-omnibus-states-congressional Aderholt only Alabama Republican to vote for omnibus; State's congressional delegation weighs in on budget 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House AL Gary Palmer P000609 palmer.house.gov     legacy Although Congress passed a bi-partisan budget deal on Friday to avert a government shutdown, only two members of the Alabama delegation followed the leaders of their parties' call to approve the omnibus bill that funds the government until September. U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, and Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, were the only two "yes" votes for the omnibus in the House; both Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions voted against it in the Senate, as they previously indicated they would. The $1.1 trillion omnibus package was a compromise hashed out by legislative leaders that includes lifting America's 30-year ban on exporting oil, funding increases for NASA, the Veterans Affairs department, federal workers, the National Institutes of Health and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (there are 12 HBCUs in Alabama.) But it also left out key Republican priorities like blocking the president's Syrian refugee resettlement plan and defunding Planned Parenthood. Aderholt, a conservative Republican who plays a key role in the annual National Prayer Breakfast, said he voted for the bill because it continued a ban on federally monies from going to abortion except in cases of rape, incest or if the life of the mother is in danger. "The bill is known more for what it is not than for what it is. While I was able to get some important language included for the pro-life movement, the bill does not contain other riders I had hoped for such as tying the president's hands on the Syrian refugees and peeling back the EPA water regulation. That is a big disappointment," he said in a statement. "The good news is that this bill is the last vestiges of Speaker Boehner's style of leadership and in two weeks we will start putting together a bill that with conservative principles will pass with conservative votes." Sewell cited the NIH increase and funding boosts to HBCUs and other education programs, as well as money allocated to preserve historic civil rights cites as among the reasons she was one of166 Democrats to appr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=93C34490-DECB-4AF5-F958-620DD10290E9 Bennet Statement on Water Clause in Ski Area Permits 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CO Michael Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov     legacy Denver, CO - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement in response to today's announcement from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) on water in ski area permits: "Water is a precious resource on which Colorado's ski areas rely for economic sustainability and growth. We are lucky to live in a state with world class skiing right in our back yard and we want to keep it that way. The final directive, published today, seems more balanced than the Forest Service's original directive. We are hopeful that it will be workable for all sides by protecting private water rights and keeping Colorado's ski resorts sustainable long into the future." According to recent study by Colorado Ski Country USA and Vail Resorts, Inc., Colorado's ski industry generates $4.8 billion each year for our economy and supports more than 46,000 year-round equivalent jobs. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/weekly-columns?ContentRecord_id=6233b924-df4e-445c-82fa-11d43eb1957a 2015 in Review 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House AR John Boozman B001236 www.boozman.senate.gov     legacy As we close the book on another year and celebrate the excitement and promise of a New Year, I want to highlight some of the Senates accomplishments in 2015. Under new Republican leadership, the Senate set out to restore responsibility to the fiscal process. We passed the first bicameral budget since 2009. More importantly, the first balanced budget since 2001. And all twelve appropriations bills were approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee for the first time in six years. We took big strides in providing relief to hardworking Arkansans and their families. Most significantly, we passed the first Obamacare repeal bill that will make it to the Presidents desk. The legislation we passed would begin to lift the burdens and higher costs the failed program has placed on every Arkansan. It begins to build a bridge from the presidents broken promises to a better health care system for hardworking families across the country. The Obamacare repeal isnt the only relief we have sought to provide the people of Arkansas from the Obama Administrations regulatory excesses. The Senate has passed measures to overturn the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) mandate and the carbon rules on new and existing power plants, two glaring examples of administration overreach. These EPA mandates strip Arkansans of their personal property rights, stifle job growth and will raise the cost-of-living for every Arkansan. While the President will likely veto these bills, Senate passage of them sends a clear message of disapproval of these policies on behalf of the American people. Certainly not all of our accomplishments have met a veto pen. People often ask me why Congress cant work together to get things done for the American people. I can honestly say that we are. We started off the year with by passing the groundbreaking Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans (SAV) Act to ensure our veterans receive mental health services. We also prevented a cut to Medicare providers that would have … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.burr.senate.gov/press/releases/sen-burr-recaps-strategic-legislative-accomplishments-for-2015- Sen. Burr Recaps Strategic Legislative Accomplishments for 2015 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House NC Richard Burr B001135 www.burr.senate.gov     legacy 12.30.15 Sen. Burr Recaps Strategic Legislative Accomplishments for 2015 WASHINGTON Today, Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) revisited several of his high profile legislative accomplishments for 2015 including an important conservation program renewal, education funding for low-income families, military reforms and transportation improvements. Senator Burr said: Over the last year, I successfully wrote several bills that have since become law. These new laws will enhance the lives of our veterans, help children from low-income families get better education and enable transportation improvements for high traffic corridors. Im pleased that I delivered for North Carolina in 2015. Every day, my staff and I work to make sure that our federal dollars are efficiently used in the state. This year was a productive one in Congress, and that means $24 million to children from low-income families, and a revitalized military in North Carolina. As Intel Committee Chairman, I introduced legislation which was signed into law that addresses serious weaknesses in our ability to protect Americans against cyber-attacks. I can and will keep fighting for North Carolina families. A few of Sen. Burrs legislative successes from 2015: Title II Education Funding Reform in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) In addition to repealing the common core mandate, ESSA includes language sponsored by Burr that fixes an inequity in federal education funding that for 15 years has not only shortchanged North Carolinas teachers and schools, but also the low-income students they serve across North Carolina. The funding fix will add $24 million each year for school programs. Senator Burr introduced on April 16th 2015. Signed into law December 10th 2015. Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act helps protect Americans personal privacy by taking steps to stop future cyber-attacks before they happen. This legislation creates an environment that encourages the sharing of inform… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.casey.senate.gov/newsroom/releases/casey-finishes-2015-with-major-legislative-wins Casey Finishes 2015 With Major Legislative Wins 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House PA Bob Casey C001070 www.casey.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. As the 2015 legislative year comes to an end, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) announced several major legislative wins and public laws he led to passage on behalf of Pennsylvanians. 13 Casey led bills were enacted into law in 2015; 7 bills introduced by Casey, and 6 bills on which he served as the lead Democratic sponsor. These public laws will help improve the lives of Pennsylvanians across all spectrums, creating jobs, keeping kids in school by creating a more positive school climate, and keeping drivers safe by providing $73,796,694 annually to fix off-system bridges. I was pleased to guide into law a number of bills that will help Pennsylvanians and the economy of the Commonwealth, especially efforts to create jobs, keep kids in school, and improve our infrastructure, said Senator Casey. Theres much more to be done in the coming year to make sure children learn more early in life so they earn more later and so middle class incomes increase. The full list of bills Senator Casey led as well as bills he was the lead Democrat on can be found below. Casey Lead Depreciation Fairness Act S.394- The bill makes permanent the 15-year depreciation period for qualified leasehold improvement property, qualified restaurant property, and qualified retail improvement property. It ensures the depreciation schedule permanently reflects the economic useful life of these types of investments. This change will provide businesses with the certainty they need to undertake capital expenditures, which will fuel economic activity and create jobs. Major portions of this bill were incorporated into Section 123 of the PATH Act, H.R. 2029, which became public law on December 18, 2015. Keep Kids in School Act S 672. This legislation requires states and school districts to report on the use of exclusionary discipline and create plans to reduce its use. The bill also provides funding to implement activities that have been proven to create a more positive school climate. Major portions of this bill were incorporated… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2567 Sen. Cruz Tours Tornado Wreckage in Rowlett 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House TX Ted Cruz C001098 www.cruz.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today joined U.S. Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Texas), Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, State Sen. Bob Hall (R-Canton), State Rep. Cindy Burkett (R-Sunnyvale), Rowlett Mayor Todd Gottel, and Rockwall County Judge David Sweet to tour the areas ravaged by tornadoes last Saturday. After witnessing the wreckage, Sen. Cruz said, It is heartbreaking to see these homes that have been utterly destroyed, and yet, it is miraculous that in the face of all of this devastation, there was not more loss of life. Weve seen homes that have been reduced to piles of rubble, and yet miraculously, the families that were there survived. That is something for which we are all thankful. It is also remarkable seeing how Texans respond in the face of tragedy. Over and over again, when faced with natural disasters, Texans come together. We had the opportunity to visit with volunteers from neighboring areas that have come together to help clean up the wreckage, to help patch up the roofs, to help people put together their lives. That sense of community, that sense of love, that sense of togetherness is one of the things that really defines Texas. I commend the mayor, the city officials, the county officials, and the local and state governments for stepping up and helping their citizens rebuild their lives. The cleanup operation is incredible. And over and over again, as we visited with people, families who had lost their homes were simply saying, Thank God we survivedphysical possessions can be replaced. People are hurting. People are grieving. And we are coming together as one to pray for and stand with our friends and neighbors in the face of this natural disaster. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=c7c25813-0535-40ab-96c7-743b1852ccb8 On Two-Year Anniversary of Casselton Derailment, Heitkamp Honors North Dakota First Responders 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House ND Heidi Heitkamp H001069 www.heitkamp.senate.gov     legacy CASSELTON, N.D. Two years after the derailment of a crude oil train near Casselton, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp toured the Casselton Volunteer Ambulance Service today to thank volunteer first responders and underscore the need to provide federal support for volunteer ambulance services, fire departments, and other emergency responders. To make sure firefighters and ambulance workers have the training and equipment they need, Heitkamp fought to increase federal funding to support first responders in the year-end spending bill Congress passed earlier this month. Today she encouraged North Dakota fire departments and first responders to apply for the increased federal funding. Heitkamp also presented Ken Habiger, president of the Casselton Volunteer Ambulance Service, with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol in recognition of Habigers commitment to the safety and wellbeing of his community. From local fire departments to volunteer ambulance services, we need to do everything we can to make sure our first responders are prepared and safe as they work to protect us, said Heitkamp. The derailment in Casselton two years ago was a blunt reminder that we have a duty to support first responders like Ken, who work hard every day to make their communities stronger and safer. Congress needs to do its part to give first responders knowledge and training to protect our communities. Thats what I pushed for in the spending bill, and what Im also trying to do with my RESPONSE Act. Community service is a way of life here in Casselton and throughout our state, and we need to do everything we can to protect and prepare those who answer that call to serve. The spending bill Congress passed provides $690 million for first responder grants for equipment and staffing in 2016, which is a $10 million increase from 2015. Eight North Dakota fire departments including Fargo, Buffalo, Cavalier, and Bismarck benefited from Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) funding totaling nearly $1 million in 2014. The AFG and Sta… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-reviews-december-legislative-accomplishments-north-dakota-priorities Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House ND John Hoeven H001061 www.hoeven.senate.gov     legacy 12.30.15 Hoeven Reviews December Legislative Accomplishments, North Dakota Priorities Senator Holds Year-End Roundtable with Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce BISMARCK, N.D. Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable in Bismarck with local officials and business leaders to outline key legislative accomplishments that he worked to advance throughout the year and that Congress included in legislation passed this month. Hoeven worked with his congressional colleagues to address North Dakota's priorities and meet the needs of the state's families, schools, businesses and farmers across a wide variety of areas, including energy, tax, education, transportation and regulatory policy. We secured important priorities for our state and nation, Hoeven said. We lifted the ban on crude oil exports, provided tax relief, restored local control over education standards and ensured stronger funding for long-term infrastructure projects. These accomplishments will provide considerable benefits for our businesses and our families by promoting greater economic growth and local autonomy. Senator Hoeven helped to successfully pass the following measures through Congress this December: Lifting the Ban on Crude Oil Exports Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy Committee, repeatedly called for the repeal of the outdated crude oil export ban and cosponsored bipartisan legislation earlier this year to do just that. Allowing crude oil exports will support domestic energy production, grow the nation's economy, provide good jobs for workers, reduce fuel costs for consumers and enhance the security of the U.S. and our allies. Tax Relief for Small Business and Farmers Approved tax relief totaling $680 billion over ten years. Included a permanent extension of Section 179 with the $500,000 limitation and a five-year extension of bonus deprecation, important provisions that provide small businesses certainty and flexibil… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/what-others-are-saying?ContentRecord_id=fa9c2418-4f72-4533-8665-c889edec6e3a Coastal Courier: Carter, Isakson look forward to new year in DC 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House GA Johnny Isakson I000055 www.isakson.senate.gov     legacy By Brent Zell It was a year of learning and experiencing a lot, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., said. In his first year as representative from the 1st Congressional District, the Pooler native got to experience Pope Francis address to Congress up close and went with a group of legislators to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Each event, Carter said, was an honor. Then, there was dealing with a new schedule. In his days as a state legislator, Carter was used to 40-day sessions in Atlanta and getting to go home around the end of March or beginning of April. Being a U.S. congressman, however, is year-round and 24/7, he said. Even being back home, he said he was busy getting around and seeing people in a district that has 17 counties, including Liberty and Long. Its very time consuming, but its very, very exciting, Carter said. One of Carters major goals when going to Congress was to tackle the national debt, which was at nearly $19 trillion Dec. 24, according to TreasuryDirect.gov. This year, for the first time since 2009, Congress passed a budget, which cuts the debt by $5.5 trillion over the next10 years, Carter said. A budget that, granted, its not a balanced budget, but it does give us a roadmap to a balanced budget, he said. Also, Congress passed a highway bill that covers five years worth of spending, marking the first time in decades that a highway bill longer than two years was approved. That was key to helping relieve the debt, Carter said. That is because in order to economically grow out of debt, sound infrastructure has to be in place, which means transportation has be taken care of, he said. The federal bill will work in harmony with Georgias highway bill that was passed this year in Atlanta by making sure projects keep going, Carter added. The federal governments got to be a reliable partner to the states in order for the states to get projects underway and completed, he said. Other key legislation from this year included ensuring doctors will accept Medicare from… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.leahy.senate.gov/press/leahy-local-advocates-announce-expansion-of_charitable-deductions-of-food-donations Leahy, Local Advocates Announce Expansion of Charitable Deductions of Food Donations 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House VT Patrick Leahy L000174 www.leahy.senate.gov     legacy 12.30.15 Leahy, Local Advocates Announce Expansion of Charitable Deductions of Food Donations BURLINGTON, Vt. (WEDNESDAY, Dec. 30, 2015) Joined by local advocates to end hunger and food insecurity, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) Wednesday announced at the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf in Burlington that a provision incentivizing donations of surplus food to local food pantries was recently signed into law, helping efforts to cut back on food waste and supporting communities help those in need across the country. During this congress, Leahy successfully led a bipartisan effort to expand and make permanent tax deductions for businesses and farms for donated food to community food shelves this year. As much as 40 percent of food that is produced, grown and transported in the United States will never be used because some businesses find it too costly to donate. This amounts to an estimated 70 billion pounds of wasted food each year. Leahy said: The burden of hunger threatens the livelihood and wellbeing of communities across Vermont. Hunger leads to malnourishment, obesity, diabetes and academic and social difficulty among children, and we all know a hungry child cannot learn.Vermont is a leader in the fight against hunger, and I was proud support this common sense provision to cut down on food waste and redirect resources to those in need. The Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf serves over 12,000 Vermonters each year, and continues to see an increase in visitors seeking food assistance. Rob Meehan, Executive Director of the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf said, Many of the people we serve face difficult choices including skipping meals so their children will have enough to eat, choosing between food and medicine, food and housing, food and healthcare simply because they do not have enough money. We need more help from our federal government to feed vulnerable Vermonters and this is a valuable step in that direction. The provision, the House companion of Leahy's Senate legislation the Good Samaritan … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c78c1e97-d1a5-4b86-9444-f1ebcce730e5 STATEMENT BY SASC CHAIRMAN JOHN McCAIN ON IRAN ROCKET LAUNCH NEAR U.S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House AZ John McCain M000303 www.mccain.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today on Irans recent rocket launch near the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz: "As the Obama Administration celebrates the Iran nuclear deal, Iran conducted a highly provocative launch of several rockets with little warning just 1500 yards from a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz. This alarming launch comes after Iran has conducted two advanced missile tests since October in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. Yet the Administration continues to turn a blind eye to Iranian saber rattling, continued state sponsorship of terrorism, and violations of its international commitments for fear Iran will walk away from the nuclear deal. "The administration's desperate attempts to get sanctions relief before the elections in February based on an unfounded belief that it will promote what they perceive as a 'moderate' political strain in Iran is both nave and dangerous. A rush to sanctions relief threatens to embolden an increasingly aggressive Iranian regime that has no intention of normalizing relations with the West or of retreating from a malign policy intended to destabilize the Middle East. "We need a to ensure that U.S. forces are postured to respond to Iranian aggression and finally adopt a comprehensive strategy to counter Iran's malign influence in the Middle East." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-himes-applaud-over-206000-in-pool-safety-grants-for-bridgeport-and-stamford MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, HIMES APPLAUD OVER $206,000 IN POOL SAFETY GRANTS FOR BRIDGEPORT AND STAMFORD 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy MURPHY, BLUMENTHAL, HIMES APPLAUD OVER $206,000 IN POOL SAFETY GRANTS FOR BRIDGEPORT AND STAMFORD U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Grants Awarded to Combat Pool and Spa Drownings and Drain Entrapments Wednesday, December 30, 2015 HARTFORD- Today, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), andU.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-4) applauded $206,225 in grants for the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to provide assistance for education, training, and enforcement of pool safety requirements aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings and drain entrapments. The City of Bridgeport will be awarded $74,973 for the Bridgeport Water Safety Awareness Project to expand on current water safety education and compliance efforts, including regular inspections of all public pools by city inspectors and on-site enforcement personnel to ensure compliance with current rules and regulations. The Project will also include free-to-the public swimming instruction. The City of Stamford will be awarded $131,252 for Stamfords Pool Safety Program and will partner with the Stamford Family YMCA to segment their current learn- to- swim curriculum with the YMCA of the USAs Safety Around Water program, increase the amount of youth receiving water safety education, and expand training and education opportunities for staff and Certified Pool Operators. Drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 to 4 nationwide tragedies that we can and must do more to prevent, said Murphy, Blumenthal, and Himes. This critical federal funding will help ensure that the cities of Bridgeport and Stamford can expand on their current water safety initiatives to support more robust pool safety education and compliance, increase access to swimming instruction, and provide meaningful training opportunities for staff and pool operators. We applaud this wise investment that will keep our children and fa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-zeldin-calls-investigations-nsa-spying-members-congress Congressman Zeldin Calls for Investigations into NSA Spying on Members of Congress Conversations with Israeli Leadership 2015-12-30 2015 2015-12 Republican House NY Lee Zeldin Z000017 zeldin.house.gov     legacy Patchogue, New York - Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C NY 1), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the House Republican Israel Caucus today called on Congress and the Department of Justice to investigate the NSAs spying on members of Congress conversations with top Israeli leadership. The House Intelligence Committee just announced today that it is opening a probe. Additionally, Congressman Zeldin called on the Obama Administration to disclose information related to its role in this questionable activity. If the latest reports are true, laws were broken and there must be accountability for all responsible, said Congressman Zeldin. First off, Israel is a trusted ally of the United States of America and should be respected as such. The NSAs spying of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top level Israeli leadership harms our relationship with our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East. Furthermore, and especially concerning, the NSA should not have been recording the conversations between members of Congress and Israeli leadership. It appears that laws may have been broken. Congressman Zeldin met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as other top leaders in the Israeli government, during the negotiation and deliberation of the P5+1 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the Iran Nuclear Agreement. Israel is a beacon of freedom and democracy in a region of the world that is filled with darkness, continued Congressman Zeldin. Americas foreign policy should be one that strengthens our relationships with our allies and treats our enemies as our enemies. These new details about the NSAs spying does nothing to strengthen our relationship with Israel and other allies around the world. If only the Obama administration would channel a fraction of its bias against Israel towards more responsible policy towards Iran, America would be made more secure today and in the future. Congressman Zeldin concluded, Putting the spying of Israeli leadership aside for a moment, in … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cohen.house.gov/press-release/cohen-cleveland-chicago-police-shootings-are-more-evidence-we-need-independent Cohen: Cleveland, Chicago Police Shootings Are More Evidence That We Need Independent Prosecutors 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House TN Steve Cohen C001068 cohen.house.gov     legacy [WASHINGTON, DC] Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN), the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Constitution and Civil Justice, today said that recent police shootings in Cleveland and Chicago are further evidence that Congress needs to push states to require independent prosecutors by passing H.R. 2302, the Police Training and Independent Review Act a bill recently endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, following investigative coverage on ABC 7 Chicago (WLS-TV). People arent marching in the streets because they think the system is fair, said Congressman Cohen. We need reform. Asking local prosecutors to investigate the same local police with whom they work so closely is a conflict of interest. Even if they handle such investigations appropriately, there will continue to be a perception of bias. These kind of cases need independent prosecutors, and thats why we are seeing growing support for our bill. Earlier this year, Congressman Cohen along with Congressman Lacy Clay (D-MO)(whose district includes Ferguson, MO) introduced H.R. 2302, the Police Training and Independent Review Act. The bill would withhold full federal funding for law enforcement if independent prosecutors are not used for cases in which police use of deadly force results in death or injury. The bill would also withhold full federal funding if police are not trained on a variety of issues including mental health. The bill currently had 53 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. Earlier this year, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo began requiring the use of an independent prosecutor for police killings. See NY Times: Cuomo to Appoint Special Prosecutor for Killings by Police H.R. 2302 addresses a key recommendation included in President Obamas Taskforce on 21st Century Policings final report: (See Action Item 2.2.3in https://www.cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/taskforce/TaskForce_FinalReport.pdf -- on p. 21 of the final report): 2.2.3 Action Item: The task force encourages policies that mandate the use of external and independent prosecutors in … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://duncan.house.gov/wivks-gunner-honored-work-vets WIVK's Gunner Honored for Work with Vets 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House TN John Duncan D000533 duncan.house.gov     legacy Mr. Speaker: I wish today to honor a man that many in my District know by only one name. Ted Ousleyor simply Gunner as he is known to his many fansis one of the most popular people in my District and a longtime personality with WIVK radio in Knoxville, Tennessee. Each weekday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Your Cowboy Pal Gunner entertains listeners with his unique brand of East Tennessee charm, humor, and grace. He loves his job, and you can tell when listening to his show. He once said that he was living his dream by being on the air with WIVK. In 2003 and 2004, Gunner was voted the Best DJ by Metro Pulse readers and was a finalist for the Marconi Air Personality of the Year. But Gunner is not just known for his entertainment. He is also a tireless champion of Veterans. Following the September 11th terror attacks in 2001, Gunner started a segment on his show called Voices from the Front, where he would connect families over the phone with their loved ones serving in the wars. It was hugely popular and emotional for him and his listeners. In 2004, he traveled to Iraq, and upon his return led an effort to bring to the United States for treatment an 8-year-old suffering from a severe form of Spina Bifida. In 2009, Gunner received the first annual Civilian Warrior Award for his work with the 844th Engineer Battalion. East Tennessee is one of the most patriotic places in this Country. Each year, Gunner helps lead the Veterans Day parade in Knoxville, which is attended by many thousands of people. In addition to his service to Veterans, Gunner finds the time to run two East Tennessee farms and serve on the Board of Directors of the East Tennessee Alzheimers Association. Mister Speaker, Ted Gunner Ousley embodies the Volunteer spirit of East Tennessee. His humility and dedication to those who serve will forever hold a place in our hearts, and I thank him for his dedication to this Country and wish him success as he continues to entertain us each day. I also call his work with Veterans to the attention of my… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398291 Gohmert Reflects on 2015 Battles in the U.S. House of Representatives 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House TX Louie Gohmert G000552 gohmert.house.gov     legacy Sen. Bill Ratliff once told me the old adage, Its amazing what you can get done if you dont care who gets the credit. He was so right. Knowing that I had evoked Speaker Boehners wrath, I would tell him I did not care whose name was on a bill that needed to come to the floor for a vote and I have gotten a number of bills passed and others should pass this next year. Since my first term in office, I have been pushing to end the automatic increase in every federal department and agency. That would make it a Zero Baseline Budget. Four years ago, Boehner agreed to bring it to the floor under the name of the stellar young House member who managed it in committee. It passed the House, but the Senate did not take it up. About two years later, it was again passed out of the House as the Woodall-Gohmert bill, though I told Paul Ryan not to put my name on it because it might prevent it coming to the floor for a vote. Paul said, Ive already told Boehner everybody knows you are the one who has been pushing this since youve been here, so he said ok. The Senate did not take it up, but I am told in this Congress, we should pass it this year and demand the Senate vote on it. Since Speaker Ryan strongly supports it, it may get a vote in the Senate. THE KARI'S LAW ACT OF 2015 We have worked with various aspects of the lodging industry, phone system providers, and concerned individuals including Hank Hunt, to draft Karis Law that will require phone systems be provided with the default allowing anyone dialing 911 to reach emergency help without dialing any prefix. We expect to get it passed this year. OBAMACARE ORIGINATION CLAUSE Previously, I drafted a bill that would state that it is the sense of the House that the ObamaCare bill did not originate in the House as the Constitution requires for bills that raise revenue or have taxes in them. There are attorneys who have filed suit and gotten different judgments in different Circuit Courts, so there is a good chance that the Supreme Court will take it up. … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398276 Watch Congressman Huizenga's Facebook Town Hall 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Watch Congressman Huizenga's Facebook Town Hall f t # e Washington, December 29, 2015 On Monday afternoon, Congressman Huizenga held his first-ever live video town hall on Facebook. During the town hall, Rep. Huizenga took questions from West Michigan residents on the threats posed by ISIS,how Congress is addressing refugees from war torn regions in the Middle East,the negative impact of Dodd-Frank on West Michigan community banks, his legislation to make the Federal Reserve more accountable and transparent to the American people, the legislative plan to defund Planned Parenthood and how Congress is preparing to put the first major ObamaCare repeal legislation on President Obama's desk in January. You can watchthe entire town hall event below: Earlier today, I held a live town hall on Facebook where I took questions from West Michigan Residents on immigration, ObamaCare, ISIS, Dodd-Frank, fed reform, Planned Parenthood and more. If you couldn't join the town hall this afternoon, the full video is below. Posted by Rep. Bill Huizenga on Monday, December 28, 2015 Be sure to "like" Rep. Huizenga on Facebookto ensure you receivea notification for the Congressman's next "FacebookLive" Event. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://luetkemeyer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398664 Luetkemeyer Offers Resources for Mo. Residents Due to Widespread Flooding 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House MO Blaine Luetkemeyer L000569 luetkemeyer.house.gov     legacy U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) issued the following release in response to the high level of rainfall that has occurred over the last few days in areas of the 3rd District. share: f t U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) issued the following release in response to the high level of rainfall that has occurred over the last few days in areas of the 3rd District. With Missouri under a state of emergency due to the heavy rain and flooding throughout much of the state, I wanted to ensure that individuals have the access to information they may need. I have listed website links to various agencies or departments so individuals can find any necessary information they are looking for in dealing with the aftermath of the heavy rainfall. There are now clearer days in the forecast but roads are still flooded over so please stay safe on the roads over the next few days. Resources General Flood Readiness Information: http://www.ready.gov/floods Road Closures from MoDot: http://traveler.modot.org/map/ Missouri State Emergency Management: http://sema.dps.mo.gov/plan_and_prepare/flooding.php St. Louis Corps of Army Engineers (Mississippi River): http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/ National Weather Service (Missouri Basin River Forecast Center): http://www.weather.gov/mbrfc/ 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-calls-for-medical-care-and-immediate-release-of-vladimir Diaz-Balart Calls for Medical Care and Immediate Release of Vladimir Morera Bacallao 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement regarding incarcerated Cuban pro-democracy activist Vladimir Morera Bacallao. "Vladimir Morera Bacallao is in intensive care after being transferred from his prison cell where he has been on hunger strike since October 9, 2015. Reports indicate that he is gravely ill. "Morera Bacallao was released as part of the Obama-Castro deal announced on December 17, 2014. However, he was re-arrested in April 2015 for placing a sign outside his home during the Castro regime's sham 'elections' that said, 'I vote for my freedom and not in an election where I cannot choose my president.' Last month, the Castro regime gave Morera Bacallao a new four-year prison sentence for the 'crime' of expressing his political opinion. "During the Obama administration, activists Orlando Zapata Tamayo and Wilman Villar Mendoza died under uncannily similar circumstances. Activists Laura Pollan and Oswaldo Paya also perished at the hands of Castros' thugs during this administration. "Morera Bacallao has risked everything for the basic right to have a voice in his government. His unjustifiable imprisonment and mistreatment are further indictments of the brutal malevolence of the Castro regime, and the utter failure of Obama's appeasement of Cuba's dictators. I urge human rights organizations and the Obama administration to bring attention to the urgent case of Vladimir Morera Bacallao, and to demand that he receive immediate medical attention. We must not remain silent while another courageous activist hovers on the brink of death." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/after-getting-capitol-opened-for-sledding-norton-pushes-for-more-public After Getting Capitol Opened for Sledding, Norton Pushes for More Public Access with Bill to Allow Commercial Filming on Capitol Grounds When Congress is Out of Session 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House DC Eleanor Norton N000147 norton.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today said that when Congress returns from recess she will introduce a bill to permit commercial filming and photography on the U.S. Capitol Grounds beyond Union Square, the single area where it is currently permitted when both chambers of Congress are out of session. The expanded filming would be subject to the same terms and conditions as filming in Union Square (the area just below the west side of the Capitol, near the Botanic Gardens), which Norton got codified in the fiscal year 2014 omnibus appropriations bill. Filming could be permitted when Congress is not in session and subject to the usual police and security restrictions. Norton has consistently sought expanded public access to public space, particularly around the Capitol, and this month got language included in the omnibus bill for non-enforcement of a law that prohibits sledding on Capitol Grounds. This Norton bill would allow commercial film and photography crews to apply for permits for exterior shots of the Capitol and its grounds. Norton said permitting commercial filming would meet a hunger in the industry for authentic shots of our Capitol can also provide a boost to the Districts economy. Hollywood and other commercial filmmakers should not have to go to fake capitols for movies and films about the capital of the United States, Norton said. The current policy permitting filming near the Botanic Gardens shows that the Capitol police can handle filmmaking on the grounds when Congress is not in session. However, filming from that vantage point shows the least familiar view of the Capitol. At a time when the reputation of Congress is particularly low, filming the Capitol could bolster the image Congress prefers of a building that represents American democracy. It is neither business-friendly nor true to the nations democratic traditions to arbitrarily exclude filming of the Capitol. Encouraging commercial photography and filming at the Capitol would help spread the story of our nationa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-secures-over-600000-6th-district-constituents-year Pallone Secures Over $600,000 for 6th District Constituents this Year 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House NJ Frank Pallone P000034 pallone.house.gov     legacy LONG BRANCH, NJ Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that he helped secure $636,002 in 2015 for constituents seeking assistance through his district office. His work on behalf of constituents includes help with Veterans Affairs claims, tax return issues with the Internal Revenue Service, Sandyrelated FEMA grants and claims, SBA loans, Social Security payments, and more. Over the past year, Congressman Pallones constituent outreach representatives have made it possible for constituents to cut through red tape in order to receive money that is rightfully owed to them. I want all of my constituents know that were here to help, said Congressman Pallone. I am grateful so many residents of the 6th District turned to us for assistance this year. Whether my constituents need assistance navigating the federal bureaucracy or are concerned about a federal policy, I encourage them to stay in touch and hope that they continue to use my office as a resource. The funds secured by Congressman Pallone and his staff are part of a long list of constituent services that his district offices offer. For example, constituents who have issues with their Social Security benefits, federal pensions, Medicare eligibility, and U.S. citizenship are eligible for help. Additionally, Pallone and his staff frequently assist veterans obtain back pay, GI Bill benefits, VA disability claims, as well as assistance to widows who are eligible to receive pensions. Staff can also be helpful in locating low-income housing options, energy assistance and other benefits or resources that may be helpful to residents of the 6th District. For help on any of these services or other issues, constituents should not hesitate to contact either of Congressman Pallones district offices: New Brunswick Office -67/69 Church Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, Phone: (732) 249-8892 Long Branch Office -504 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ 07740, Phone: (732) 571-1140 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/weekly-column?ContentRecord_id=EF6076AA-619D-437B-A685-D428CF7610B6 Giving thanks for our freedoms as we enter a New Year 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House OH Jim Renacci R000586 renacci.house.gov     legacy As we begin the New Year and reflect on 2015, let us pause and give thanks for the rights and freedoms we enjoy in this country. In America, we have the ability to turn dreams into realities through hard work and innovation. We owe these privileges to the men and women who served, and are currently serving, to protect the freedoms that are the bedrock of our country. As a member of Congress, it is my duty to ensure that those who choose to dedicate their lives defending our freedoms receive the support they deserve. For these reasons, I was proud to support the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) earlier this year. TheNDAA fully funds the resources needed for our troops, but also cuts some unnecessary spending. One of the most important actions Congress can take is to pass a reform-centered NDAA to ensure our service members have the tools necessary to confront todays challenges and keep Americans safe. The NDAA also means jobs right here in the 16thDistrict of Ohio. For instance, one small employee-owned business will continue to manufacture radio towers vital for our ally Israels Iron Dome missile defense system. In addition to the NDAA, the Omnibus which was recently signed into law also includes provisions to strengthen our national defense, and restore funding forour men and women in uniform. One provision included will provide the necessary funding forthe construction and repair of facilities at both active and reserve military installations. Another provision will raise the pay for military personnel, and capital for the Department of Homeland Security. Finally, the House-passed bill to strengthen our Visa Waiver Program and tighten the security requirements under the program is also included in the Omnibus. Specifically, this legislation would deny Visa Waiver Program status to individuals who have recently travelled to terrorist hotspots. It is important to pause and show our gratitude for those who keep us safe and provide us the freedoms to pursue new opportunities in 2016. Th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://tipton.house.gov/press-release/3rd-district-students-receive-us-service-academy-nominations 3rd District Students Receive U.S. Service Academy Nominations 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House CO Scott Tipton T000470 tipton.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTONCongressman Scott Tipton (CO-03) announced that 24 students from Colorados 3rd Congressional District have received a nomination from his office to attend U.S. Service Academies in 2016. The students were selected based on meeting or exceeding the stringent requirements of the respective academy and of Tiptons office, which uses a merit-based, competitive nomination process. Students who applied were required to submit an essay, test scores, an application, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and complete a panel interview in order to be considered. It takes hard work, intelligence and determination to meet the high entrance standards of our nations Service Academies, traits that are critical for success as a leader in the Armed Forces. To earn a nomination, these students have met or exceeded these high standards and demonstrated a true passion to serve our country, said Tipton. On behalf of the 3rd Congressional District I commend these exceptional students for their selflessness and dedication, and wish them well in what will no doubt be a very bright future. Tipton called to personally notify each student of the nomination(s) last week. Congressman Tiptons Academy Nominations for Colorados 3rd Congressional District: U.S. Air Force Academy *Alexandre Basagoita, Monte Vista, Sargent HS, currently attending Adams State University Kobi Betts, Pueblo, Pueblo Central HS *Kyle Cox, Montrose, Montrose HS Jonathan Hints, Pueblo, Pueblo West HS, graduated 2012, currently active duty AF Lydia Knutson, Cedaredge, Cedaredge HS Jessica Tuttle, Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Springs HS Natasha Weimer, Grand Junction, currently attending Northwestern Prep School Noah Smith, Pueblo, Pueblo South HS *Kamren McKee, Fruita, Fruita Monument HS Mary Hood, Alamosa, Sargent HS U.S. Naval Academy *Connor Frasier, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS Samuel Samberson, Pueblo West, Pueblo West HS Jacob Crouch, Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs HS Nolan Butcher, Grand Junction, Hill School (boarding… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398562 Obama signs into law Uptons bill banning microbeads 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy President Barack Obama signed into law Monday a bill championed by southwest Michigan Congressman Fred Upton to phase out the production and sale of tiny bits of plastic called microbeads. The Senate on Dec. 18 passed the bill by voice vote, and the House passed it earlier this month. The legislation was co-sponsored by Reps. Fred Upton, the St. Joseph Republican who heads the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Frank Pallone, D-New Jersey. Its a banner day for Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes -- we now have a bipartisan law on the books to cleanse dirty microbeads from all our nations waters, Upton said in a Monday statement. Microbeads may be tiny plastic, but they are wreaking big time havoc in our waters. We came together, Republicans and Democrats, and got the job done. The Microbead-Free Waters Act would ban the manufacture of microbeads starting in July 2017, followed by a ban on manufacturing over-the-counter drugs and on sales of cosmetics with microbeads to start in July 2018. A ban on sales of over-the-counter drugs containing microbeads would begin July 2019. The synthetic particles have been found in relatively high concentrations in the Great Lakes where they absorb pollutants, raising concern over their consumption by fish and other wildlife that could eventually enter the food chain. The little pieces of plastic are often used as abrasive exfoliants in toothpastes and facial cleansers, ending up in waterways after they rinse down the drain and flow through the filtration systems at wastewater treatment plants. At least nine states and numerous local jurisdictions already have bans on microbeads in personal-care products, creating a patchwork of differing laws on the synthetic particles. Uptons bill on microbeads was one of several matters that Michigans Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress agreed they would push in a common agenda to maximize Michigans clout on Capitol Hill a development that political experts declared was significant among the states. In May, Democratic Sen… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=NewsReleases&ContentRecord_id=fe0df18f-629b-4ac5-9a86-f07f6cc5c5d1 Cornyn Op-Ed: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House TX John Cornyn C001056 www.cornyn.senate.gov     legacy Washington, DC Office 517 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, DC 20510 Main: 202-224-2934 Get Directions Southeast Texas: 5300 Memorial Drive Suite 980 Houston, TX 77007 Main: 713-572-3337 Fax: 713-572-3777 Get Directions South Texas: 222 East Van Buren Suite 404 Harlingen, TX 78550 Main: 956-423-0162 Fax: 956-423-0193 Get Directions West Texas: Wells Fargo Center 1500 Broadway, Suite 1230 Lubbock, TX 79401 Main: 806-472-7533 Fax: 806-472-7536 Get Directions South Central Texas: 600 Navarro Suite 210 San Antonio, TX 78205 Main: 210-224-7485 Fax: 210-224-8569 Get Directions … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.hoeven.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ContentRecord_id=c1fa06b7-4190-45e9-bdd6-527bf391b571 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House ND John Hoeven H001061 www.hoeven.senate.gov     legacy 12.29.15 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights Bill Supports General Aviation, Allows More Qualified Pilots to Continue Flying WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Pilots Bill of Rights II, a measure he cosponsored that updates the Federal Aviation Administrations (FAA) medical certification for most general aviation pilots, providing a safe and transparent process to help ensure more healthy, qualified and trained pilots can fly. The bill expands the 3rd class medical exemption for recreational pilots flying light sport aircraft and broadens the protections provided in the original Pilots Bill of Rights signed into law in 2012, which Hoeven also cosponsored. General aviation is an important part of North Dakotas transportation infrastructure and economy, providing vital services across industries, Hoeven said. The FAAs current medical standards are outdated, costly to comply with, prevent healthy and skilled pilots from flying and do little to ensure the safe operation of general aviation aircraft. Our bill updates the FAAs medical exemption process to reflect real-world health care needs and risks, which will better serve our pilots, empower them to seek treatment for their medical conditions and enhance public safety. The Pilots Bill of Rights II: Expands the existing FAA exemption for a 3rd class medical certificate to include general aviation aircraft up to 6,000 pounds and raises altitude up to 18,000 feet. Maintains safe aircraft operations by requiring an individual to take an online medical education course, complete the FAA medical evaluation process one time and maintain ongoing medical care, while also providing a checklist to guide discussion between pilots and their physicians during health examinations and maintaining the special issuance process for pilots diagnosed with mental he… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://abraham.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/traffic-restricted-levee-abraham-gets-view-air Traffic restricted on levee; Abraham gets view from air 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House LA Ralph Abraham A000374 abraham.house.gov     legacy 5th District U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham, R-Alto, got a bird's-eye view of the rising river Tuesdayin a helicopter tour with Col. John Cross, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Vicksburg District. "I'm very much concerned," Abraham said. "From what I saw today there are many camps and houses in peril on the river side of the levee." Abraham expressed confidence in the corps' ability, citing its work during the Great Flood of 2011 when the Mississippi reached an all-time high of 57.1 feet at Vicksburg. To read the full story, click here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dankildee.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-kildee-gov-snyder-apology-over-flint-water-crisis Statement by Congressman Dan Kildee on Gov. Snyder Apology Over Flint Water Crisis 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House MI Dan Kildee K000380 dankildee.house.gov     legacy Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05) issued the following statement today on the ongoing Flint water crisis: Governor Snyder's apology over the Flint water crisis is appropriate, as are personnel changes announced today at the Department of Environmental Quality. Through this ongoing crisis, the people of Flint did nothing wrong they are victims of this failure of government. The State of Michigan must not only acknowledge its role in this crisis, but also take responsibility and act right away to make it right. The state can immediately step up to help the children of Flint who have suffered lead exposure. Today, the Governor alluded to more actions' in the coming days to help Flint residents. These actions by the state should include the establishment of a fund to ensure that kids who are at the greatest risk for health problems from lead poisoning receive the developmental, educational and nutritional support they need to help overcome the challenges associated with lead exposure. The State of Michigan can help these kids. If the state helps them now, they will have a better future. But we cannot delay every day kids in Flint lose without support is a day they cannot get back. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1144 Frelinghuysen marks the Centennial of the National Park Service 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House NJ Rodney Frelinghuysen F000372 frelinghuysen.house.gov     legacy On August 25, 2016, the National Park Service will turn 100 years old! In addition to some of the local sites mentioned below, the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service initiated the Find Your Park movement to encourage people to enjoy and support America's national parks. For more information, visit here:http://findyourpark.com/. New Jersey's 11th Congressional District: Morristown National Historical Park New Jerseys 11thdistrict is fortunate to be the home of our nations oldest and most historic National Park, Morristown National Historical Park. Working with the Park Service and the Washington Association, Congressman Frelinghuysen has been leading the effort to secure dollars for the Park and to help renovate the museum. For more information on Morristown National Historical Park, please visit:http://www.nps.gov/morr/index.htm. Thomas Edison National Historical Park Located in West Orange, Thomas Edison National Historical Park includes Edisons former home and laboratory. The museum collection at the Park, the largest single body of Edison-related material, is estimated to number over 300,000 items, while the archives contain approximately five million documents. For more information, visit their webpage:http://www.nps.gov/edis/index.htm. The Crossroads of the American Revolution Two hundred and thirty years ago New Jersey was at the crossroads of America's Revolutionary War. Today, there are nearly 300 sites in New Jersey with direct ties to the American Revolution. Among the landmarks areWashingtons Headquarters inMorristown, Jockey Hollow, the Old Trenton Barracks,the Dey Mansion inWayne,the Princeton, Monmouth, and Red Bank battlefields, andthe Great Falls of the Passaic. Congressman Frelinghuysen introduced H.R. 87, legislation to recognize the critical role our state played in the American Revolution. This legislation was included in the National Heritage Areas Act of 2005, which was signed into law on October 12, 2006. The Crossroads of the American Revolution National … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/hurd-hill/hurd-hill-representing-you Hurd on the Hill: Representing You 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House TX Will Hurd H001073 hurd.house.gov     legacy Almost 12 months ago, I started a new job representing you in Washington. Being an effective leader in D.C. is not easy, especially when you are battling a bureaucracy that is slow and inefficient. But when you work smarter and harder, and surround yourself with a dedicated team, it is amazing what can be accomplished. The last time a representative from the 23rd Congressional District of Texas had legislation signed into law was 2007 -- a bill that renamed a post office. In 2015, sixty-seven bills became law and two of those are mine. Two additional bills that I introduced were also signed into law when they were added to other pieces of legislation. That means four of my bills have been signed into law, and my fifth one, The State and Local Cyber Protection Act, is on track to be sent to the Presidents desk in the New Year. My bills have a direct impact on the 23rd Congressional District by protecting the paychecks of our brave Border Patrol Agents, giving small businesses and local governments greater access to resources for cyber protection, allowing Texas to invest in border infrastructure for trade and commerce, and keeping hackers out of our governments digital infrastructure. However, not everything can be accomplished through introducing legislation. Sometimes working with my colleagues, state and federal agency heads, and local leaders is what makes something happen in our district. Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, received funding for a much-need security gate update and is on track to finally be able to fix their airfield runways so that a couple of inches of rain no longer brings pilot training to a halt. Socorro Road, stretching from Ysleta to San Elizario and Highway 132 & 173 in Devine are seeing more regular maintenance because of a call to the Texas Department of Transportation. The City of Alpine is moving forward to remediate wastewater infrastructure because of a call to TCEQ. The City of Hondo broke ground on a new vocational training facility due to a grant they received from t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://lynnjenkins.house.gov/press-releases/administration-to-release-more-gtmo-detainees-in-january/ Administration To Release More GTMO Detainees In January 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House KS Lynn Jenkins J000290 lynnjenkins.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. – According to the Associated Press, the Administration will begin releasing the first of seventeen Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) detainees next week. Additionally, the article states that “the administration is continuing to pursue plans to find an alternate U.S.-based facility.” Upon hearing the news, Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) released the following statement: “Once again, the Administration refuses to listen to Kansans and the American people. At my recent town hall in Leavenworth, Leavenworth County residents voiced their unanimous concerns and frustrations with the President’s plan to close the Guantanamo Bay detention center and transfer terrorists to the United States – possibly to the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth. It’s time for the President to drop this reckless campaign promise and instead focus on strengthening our national security.” Items To Note: Pentagon assessing Fort Leavenworth as possible site for Guantanamo transfers. (Lubold, Gordon, The Wall Street Journal: Pentagon Assessing Fort Leavenworth as Possible Site for Guantanamo Transfers, 08/14/15) Congresswoman Jenkins holds special town hall in Leavenworth on GTMO prisoner. http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/jenkins-pompeo-host-special-town-hall-on-gtmo-prisoner-transfer/ Congresswoman Jenkins and Leavenworth May write editorial explaining their bipartisan opposition to the President’s plan to close GTMO. http://journal.ijreview.com/2015/12/250687-why-we-dont-want-guantanamo-in-our-backyard/ President Obama signs NDAA barring transfer of GTMO detainees. http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/president-obama-signs-ndaa-barring-transfer-of-gtmo-detainees1/ President Obama’s plan to close GTMO would cost as much as $600 million. http://jenkins.house.gov/press-releases/jenkins-statement-on-pentagons-plan-to-close-guantanamo-bay-detention-center/ 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mourning-loss-valued-member-local-law-enforcement Mourning the Loss of a Valued Member of Local Law Enforcement 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House NJ Donald Norcross N000188 norcross.house.gov     legacy Cherry Hill, NJ-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today mourns the loss of Camden County Police Department K9 officer Zero, a decorated service dog that died last night at age 12. Zero was a distinguished member of South Jersey law enforcement. He faithfully served and protected the people of Camden County for years. He was also a wonderful ambassador for the Police Department & the City of Camden and he will be missed, said Rep. Norcross.Congressman Norcross expressed his condolences to Zeros partner, Camden County Police Lt. Zsakhiem James and the officers family in a telephone call this afternoon. I know how painful it is to lose a dog. But Zero represents so much more than just a pet. He was a trusted member of Lt. James' family and his long-time partner on the job. I know the loss of Zero will be felt for a long time to come, added Rep. Norcross. Zero, a German Shepherd, was Camdens oldest police dog, joining the police force in 2007 to become highly skilled in bomb detection. Sgt. James and Zero were honored in 2014 by then New Jersey State Senator Donald Norcross for setting a New Jersey record for the most suspect apprehensions by a K9 officer. Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-statement-on-comfort-women-agreement-announced-by-republic-of-korea-and-japan Cardin Statement on Comfort Women Agreement Announced by Republic of Korea and Japan 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House MD Benjamin Cardin C000141 www.cardin.senate.gov     legacy December 29, 2015 Cardin Statement on Comfort Women Agreement Announced by Republic of Korea and Japan BALTIMOREU.S. Senator Ben Cardin, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign RelationsCommittee, issued the following statement regarding today's announcement by the foreign ministers of South Korea and Japan in reaching a breakthrough agreement to resolve their long standing dispute regarding comfort women during World War Two. I welcome this agreement and the leadership exhibited by both Prime Minister Abe and President Park to settle this longstanding issue in a way that recognizes the suffering of the comfort women and that is appropriate for both sides. This is a painful and difficult issue in Korea that will forever stir heart-wrenching emotions. It is vital that both nations never forget the past, and while the scars of a painful period in human history will remain, it is my sincere hope that Korea and Japan will build toward a prosperous future together in order to deepen and strengthen their relations in a rapidly changing Asia-Pacific region. Both nations have demonstrated tremendous bravery and fortitude in forging this agreement. This development has the potential to pave the way for a new path forward between two close U.S. allies and I stand ready to work alongside our partners in Seoul and Tokyo to advance this relationship. Up to 200,000 women were estimated to have been forced to serve as comfort women for Japanese soldiers during World War Two, many of them Korean. In Maryland which is home to a dynamic and vibrant Korean-American community, this issue remains a deeply personal one and though I know this announcement can never fully heal the pain caused during that period, the actions taken today by the Korean and Japanese governments demonstrates true courage and I hope will allow for future generations in the region to flourish and thrive. Print Email Tweet … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.carper.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=53dfef5a-dbfd-405f-834d-a6447d4c64e4 Carper Statement on DuPont's Announcement of Job Reductions, Specialty Products Division Headquarters 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House DE Thomas Carper C000174 www.carper.senate.gov     legacy WILMINGTON, Del. Today, U.S. Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement on DuPonts announcement that approximately 1,700 Delaware-based positions will be eliminated and that its corporate headquarters for the post-merger Specialty Products division will remain in Delaware. The news of the Dow-DuPont merger was a shock to all of us, and todays announcement is very troubling. My heart goes out to everyone affected by the job losses here in Delaware. These DuPont employees are our longtime friends, our family, and our neighbors. At this time of hardship for so many Delaware families, we, as the states elected officials, cant sit back, wring our hands and bemoan our fate. Weve got to roll up our sleeves and work together, and I will continue to work with the Governor and Congressional delegation to do everything we can to help those affected and make sure good job opportunities are available here in the First State. For more than two centuries, the DuPont Company has made Delaware its home, and Delawareans have been responsible for many of its most successful and profitable products. From life-saving innovations to market-changing discoveries in research, these products have been sold under the DuPont name and made it one of the most respected American companies in the history of our country. The announcement made today that Dow-DuPonts Specialty Products division will remain in Delaware comes as a small but welcome break in the clouds. The fight, however, isnt over. Its also absolutely critical that the agriculture business is headquartered here in our state, and the Congressional delegation will work alongside Governor Markell, the Delaware legislature, and business and community leaders to do our part to ensure it is. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/cornyn-op-ed-2015-new-senate-majority-delivered-nation Cornyn Op-Ed: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House TX John Cornyn C001056 www.cornyn.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) published the following op-ed on FoxNews.com recapping the Senate’s accomplishments in the first year of the new Republican Majority: In 2015, New Senate Majority Delivered For The Nation FoxNews.com U.S. Senator John Cornyn December 29, 2015 http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2015/12/28/sen-john-cornyn-in-2015-new-senate-majority-delivered-for-nation.html Congress is often characterized as a place of partisan bickering and gridlock—where debate and partisan rancor is widespread, but little is actually accomplished. Too often, this assessment has proven accurate. But last fall, the American people decided to change that, sending a Republican majority to the U.S. Senate. Since January, and under Republican leadership, the Senate has delivered on our promise to pass legislation to help American families, grow our economy, and keep us safe. At the beginning of the 114th Congress, I introduced the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act—legislation aimed at defeating the scourge of human trafficking in this country. Human trafficking is a horrendous practice that, tragically, can be found in every state. Fortunately, members in both parties, and in both Chambers, understood the great need to urgently fight this reprehensible practice. Legislators from across the political spectrum united under a common cause: to help victims of modern-day slavery recover and rebuild their lives. In the spring, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act passed with 99 votes in the Senate, and paved the way for these brave survivors—some young children—to find a path to healing. It’s now the law of the land. Congress also tackled major issues concerning our national security. This fall, both Chambers overwhelmingly passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA is integral to ensuring that our military is resourced, trained and ready for action when called upon. And in the wake of several serious security breaches of federal government computer servers over the summer—and the braz… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=ff74e7e0-7a59-4403-9bfd-ed9c339494cf Heitkamp Announces Senate Passed Pilots Bill of Rights 2 Supporting General Aviation in ND 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House ND Heidi Heitkamp H001069 www.heitkamp.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate General Aviation Caucus, today announced the Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation she cosponsored which will support general aviation in North Dakota by making sure pilots are treated fairly and reducing burdensome requirements currently in place. The Pilots Bill of Rights 2 will decrease unnecessary bureaucracy pilots currently face, cut costs, improve protections for pilots, and reform certain medical requirements. The bill had 70 cosponsors in the Senate. The House of Representatives needs to pass the bill before it goes to the President for his signature. General aviation pilots in North Dakota understand the importance of safety while in flight, said Heitkamp. Yet for too long, pilots have faced onerous and costly rules, preventing them the fair treatment they deserve. This overwhelmingly bipartisan bill will reform many of these outdated regulations so they work better for pilots while still making sure safety is the top priority. Details about the Pilots Bill of Rights 2: Reforms the FAAs overly burdensome medical certification process by expanding an existing FAA medical standard to include more qualified, trained, general aviation pilots. Outlines specific requirements that pilots need to meet to qualify for the expanded medical standard, including completion of a medical education course every two years, self-certification by the pilot that they are being treated by their physician for any medical diagnosis that could impact their ability to fly, and the use of a checklist to guide the discussion between pilots and their physicians during a health examination, which must occur once every four years. Enhances the due process rights established in the first Pilots Bill of Rights by making sure airman have the right to appeal an FAA decision through a new, merit-based trial in Federal Court. Increases transparency for airman subject to an investigation or enforcement action by requiring the FAA to articulate the spe… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-passes-measure-to-update-faa-medical-certification-protect-pilots-due-process-rights Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House ND John Hoeven H001061 www.hoeven.senate.gov     legacy 12.29.15 Hoeven: Senate Passes Measure to Update FAA Medical Certification, Protect Pilots' Due Process Rights Bill Supports General Aviation, Allows More Qualified Pilots to Continue Flying WASHINGTON Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Senate has passed the Pilot's Bill of Rights II, a measure he cosponsored that updates the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) medical certification for most general aviation pilots, providing a safe and transparent process to help ensure more healthy, qualified and trained pilots can fly. The bill expands the 3rd class medical exemption for recreational pilots flying light sport aircraft and broadens the protections provided in the original Pilot's Bill of Rights signed into law in 2012, which Hoeven also cosponsored. General aviation is an important part of North Dakota's transportation infrastructure and economy, providing vital services across industries, Hoeven said. The FAA's current medical standards are outdated, costly to comply with, prevent healthy and skilled pilots from flying and do little to ensure the safe operation of general aviation aircraft. Our bill updates the FAA's medical exemption process to reflect real-world health care needs and risks, which will better serve our pilots, empower them to seek treatment for their medical conditions and enhance public safety. The Pilot's Bill of Rights II: Expands the existing FAA exemption for a 3rd class medical certificate to include general aviation aircraft up to 6,000 pounds and raises altitude up to 18,000 feet. Maintains safe aircraft operations by requiring an individual to take an online medical education course, complete the FAA medical evaluation process one time and maintain ongoing medical care, while also providing a checklist to guide discussion between pilots and their physicians during health examinations and maintaining the special issuance process for pilots diagnosed with me… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.mccaskill.senate.gov/media-center/latest-headlines/most-have-a-positive-outlook-on-st-josephs-business-climate Most have a positive outlook on St. Joseph's business climate 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House MO Claire McCaskill M001170 www.mccaskill.senate.gov     legacy Most have a positive outlook on St. Joseph's business climate Tuesday, December 29, 2015 By: Alan Van Zandt As the year 2015 comes to an end, it's time to look back at the last 12 months at some of the stories that affected us most. The KQ2 news staff have compiled a list of the five biggest stories of the year. Here's Number 4 on our list: An Optimistic Local Business Economic Outlook It's a scene repeated dozens of times this past year: a ribbon cutting sponsored by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce as another business puts its support behind the local economy. "We're really looking forward to this opportunity. It seems to be a really good fit for Daily's Premium Meats," said David Eaheart earlier this year, as his company began groundbreaking on its new facility in south St. Joseph. In 2015, St. Joseph was named as the 4th strongest farming and agribusiness region in the country. That level was reached in part thanks to companies like Boeringer-Ingleheim, which in the past year announced a major facility upgrade and expansion in the city. That drew the attention of Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill, who recently toured the site. "They have chosen St. Joe area for this major facility and expansion. I'm here to learn about the challenges they face in the global economy," she said. With a stronger climate for business, it also helped out retail. The long dormant Tuscany Village project got back off the ground with the promise of more shops for the area. "I couldn't believe it when they brought up that it was 2005 when Tuscuny Village first approached the city," said City Council Member Donna Jean Boyer after a city council meeting where project developers got the go-ahead to re-start their project. East Hills … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.mccaskill.senate.gov/media-center/news-releases/mccaskill-statement-on-missouri-flooding-december-2015 McCaskill Statement on Missouri Flooding 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House MO Claire McCaskill M001170 www.mccaskill.senate.gov     legacy McCaskill Statement on Missouri Flooding Tuesday, December 29, 2015 WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill today released the following statement on the historic flooding affecting Missouri: I'm praying for the safety of all Missourians, and those in affected communities should please pay close attention to guidance from local officials and first responders. I stand ready to assist with any request for federal disaster resources to help get our families and businesses quickly back on their feet. ### Print Email Tweet 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-in-old-saybrook-today-murphy-courtney-celebrate-new-opportunities-to-preserve-land-and-open-space IN OLD SAYBROOK TODAY, MURPHY, COURTNEY CELEBRATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO PRESERVE LAND OPEN SPACE 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov     legacy IN OLD SAYBROOK TODAY, MURPHY, COURTNEY CELEBRATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO PRESERVE LAND & OPEN SPACE End-of-year tax and funding package permanently extends conservation easement tax incentive and boosts federal conservation funding Tuesday, December 29, 2015 OLD SAYBROOK Today, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-2) celebrated the permanent renewal of the conservation easement tax incentive as well as significant federal funding for land preservation. Murphy and Courtney joined State Senator Art Linares, State Rep. Devin Carney, First Selectman Carl Fortuna, Mike Urban of the Old Saybrook Land Trust, and other community leaders at the town hall in Old Saybrook, which recently completed one of Connecticuts largest land conservation projects. Today, we announced a pretty amazing set of wins for land conservation in Connecticut and across the country, said Murphy. I have been working on the issue of land conservation since my time in the U.S. House of Representatives as the chair of the Land Conservation Caucus, and Ive never seen successes like weve achieved this year. The end of the year budget and tax bill will help preserve millions of acres of land across the country and will make Connecticut eligible to receive more federal land conservation funding to partner with state and private funds than ever before. Its easy for us to advocate for this bipartisan commitment because of the strong support for conservation here in Eastern Connecticut and across the state. We really are a national leader for land preservation, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for the best ways to preserve land and open space for generations to come. "I was very pleased to see so many important conservation initiatives addressed in the end-of-year agreement to fund the government and extend certain tax credits, said Courtney. From extending the Conservation Easement Tax Credit, to the reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund in t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.paul.senate.gov/news/sen-rand-paul-holds-town-hall-paducah-performing-free-eye-surgeries Sen. Rand Paul Holds Town Hall in Paducah Before Performing Free Eye Surgeries 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House KY Rand Paul P000603 www.paul.senate.gov     legacy PADUCAH, KY Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul held a Town Hall in Paducah, Kentucky at the Paducah Chamber of Commerce Center. Before heading to the Ambulatory Surgery Center in Paducah to perform pro bono eye surgeries, Sen. Paul spoke with Kentuckians in attendance and took questions from the audience. Questions ranged from local issues to immigration to national defense. Following the Town Hall, Sen. Paul performed pro bono eye surgeries with Dr. Barbara Bowers. Sen. Paul regularly performs free eye surgeries for charity, and since being elected to the Senate in 2010, he has continued to use his skills to help those in need. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.perdue.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-david-perdue-2015-a-year-in-photos Senator David Perdue: 2015 A Year in Photos 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House GA David Perdue P000612 www.perdue.senate.gov     legacy Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Meet David Connect Helping You News 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-casey-seek-to-raise-student-achievement-by-improving-teacher-preparation Reed, Casey Seek to Raise Student Achievement by Improving Teacher Preparation 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Democrat House RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov     legacy 12/29/2015CRANSTON, RI In an effort to boost student achievement in the classroom, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Bob Casey (D-PA) have introduced the Educator Preparation Reform Act, aimed at better preparing teachers, principals, librarians, and other school leaders by developing the skills and knowledge they need to be effective and profession-ready on day one. The Educator Preparation Reform Act would overhaul federal laws governing teacher preparation, including reporting requirements, accountability provisions, and the TEACH Grant scholarship program. Earlier this month, the Washington Post reported that many high poverty schools struggle to fill their teaching positions and rely on a rotating cast of substitutes. The report went on to explain that inner-city schools tend to employ teachers who are more inexperienced than the hires at affluent schools, and the teachers often are not adequately trained for the intense environments they will face. We need to help motivated teachers and principals so they hit the ground running, especially in our highest need schools. We know that quality teachers and principals make a real positive difference for kids and help raise student achievement in the classroom. If we want to improve our schools, it is essential that teachers, principals, and other educators have a comprehensive system that supports their preparation, professional growth, and development, before the first day of school and continuing throughout their careers. There is a looming shortage of fully-prepared teachers and we must do better by our students and our schools. The legislation were introducing today encourages an increased level of investment in our teachers for the sake of our students, said Senator Reed. When children learn more at an early age they earn more later in life. One of the keys to helping our children learn more at a young age is a teacher who is ready to enrich students from day one, Senator Casey said. Giving our nations teachers the tools to succeed is an essential part… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/must-read/for-the-wealthiest-a-private-tax-system-that-saves-them-billions For the Wealthiest, a Private Tax System That Saves Them Billions 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Independent House VT Bernard Sanders S000033 www.sanders.senate.gov     legacy For the Wealthiest, a Private Tax System That Saves Them Billions By: NOAM SCHEIBER and PATRICIA COHEN Tuesday, December 29, 2015 WASHINGTON The hedge fund magnates Daniel S. Loeb, Louis Moore Bacon andSteven A. Cohenhave much in common. They have managed billions of dollars in capital, earning vast fortunes. They have invested millions in art and millions more in political candidates. Moreover, each has exploited an esoteric tax loophole that saved them millions in taxes. The trick? Route the money to Bermuda and back. With inequality at its highest levels in nearly a century and public debate rising over whether the government should respond to it through higher taxes on the wealthy, the very richest Americans have financed a sophisticated and astonishingly effective apparatus for shielding their fortunes. Some call it the income defense industry, consisting of a high-priced phalanx of lawyers, estate planners, lobbyists and anti-tax activists who exploit and defend a dizzying array of tax maneuvers, virtually none of them available to taxpayers of more modest means. In recent years, this apparatus has become one of the most powerful avenues of influence for wealthy Americans of all political stripes, including Mr. Loeb and Mr. Cohen, who give heavily to Republicans, and the liberal billionaireGeorge Soros, who has called for higher levies on the richwhile at the same time usingtax loopholes to bolster his own fortune. Continue reading here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://zeldin.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/following-his-return-iraq-rep-zeldin-releases-statement-iraqi-military Following His Return from Iraq, Rep. Zeldin Releases Statement on Iraqi Military Recapturing Ramadi 2015-12-29 2015 2015-12 Republican House NY Lee Zeldin Z000017 zeldin.house.gov     legacy Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, C NY 1), Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, who just returned from a Christmas time Congressional Delegation (CODEL) visit to Iraq and Kuwait, released the following statement after the Iraqi military recaptured Ramadi from ISIS: Recapturing Ramadi is a key strategic victory for Iraq and coalition forces. For Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, U.S. Army Lieutenant General Sean McFarland, the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service, and all others who played critical roles in this effort, this is a very positive development not just for Iraqi security, but for the security of the free world in the fight against ISIS. In Iraq, the United States and coalition partners clearly have a plan and that plan is moving in the right direction. Since the May 19th fall of Ramadi, there has been no loss of ground to ISIS for more than 48 hours. It is very tenuous though and with so much ground still to recapture, the reality remains that this could all pivot in the opposite direction in the blink of an eye. An intense battle for Mosul still awaits. For ISIS, which has linked its efforts to establishing a caliphate, holding ground and expanding further is critical. That is a key reason why their loss of Ramadi is important. There is a possibility that within two to five years, the Iraqis will recapture all land in their country currently held by ISIS. That is far from certain, but for the first time in a long time, many are at least feeling momentum in the right direction. Syria and Libya are a completely different story where there seems to be no plan to defeat ISIS, only to take out some of the bad guys and disrupt some of their command and control. That situation I fear is likely to get worse before it gets better and is a race against the clock. The best humanitarian victory that can be delivered for the Syrians is to wipe ISIS off the face of the earth and for the rest of the civil war to end. It is difficult to develop a plan for a post-Assad Syria if all of the people needed to run the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-fights-save-florida-panther Buchanan Fights to Save Florida Panther 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov     legacy Endangered Animal Needs a "Safe Habitat" To Survive WASHINGTON U.S. Rep Vern Buchanan, R-FL, noting yet another panther death in southwest Florida, today called on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to designate a critical habitat for the endangered animal. Wildlife officials said last week a 1-year-old Florida panther was killed by a vehicle, raising to 30 the number of automobile-related deaths in 2015. The Florida panther remains one of the most endangered mammals on earth, with fewer than 180 big cats alive today. The breeding population of Florida panthers is found only in the southern tip of the state. Each year, the Florida panther population continues to shrink in size as more big cats are hit and killed by cars because they lack a safe habitat, Buchanan said. Although these panthers are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, they face extinction because they have no protected area to live and repopulate. Earlier this month Buchanan and several other Florida congressmen sent a letter to President Obama requesting a safe habitat for the Florida panther. The letter highlighted the need for a safe environment that would preserve valuable environmental resources, such as wetlands, aquifer-recharge areas, drinking water supplies. We should not stand by and do nothing as yet another endangered species is wiped off the earth, Buchanan said. We dont get a second chance once a species becomes extinct. The panther was one of the original 14 mammals named to the endangered species list in 1967, but a critical habitat has never been established, even though one is required by the Endangered Species Act. Buchanan is a longtime advocate of the Endangered Species Act and has been recognized as a legislative leader by the U.S. Humane Society for his record on animal welfare issues. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chu.house.gov/press-release/rep-chu-statement-japans-apology-comfort-women Rep. Chu Statement on Japan's Apology to "Comfort Women" 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CA Judy Chu C001080 chu.house.gov     legacy PASADENA, CA - On Monday, Japan and South Korea announced an historic agreement regarding the issue of "comfort women" - women who were captured and used as sex slaves by the Japanese Army during World War II. Under the agreement, Japan will apologize to the Korean women for the physical and emotional pain and contribute approximately $8.3 million to a fund for the survivors. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) has repeatedly called on Japan to acknowledge this wrong, most recently during Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to Washington in April. Rep. Chu welcomed the agreement and released the following statement: "This is an historic apology for an historic wrong by Japan. For the women who were forced into sex slavery by the Japanese Army during World War II, the wounds have stayed open for decades. Unfortunately for these women, Japan has often denied responsibility and blamed their suffering on war. This has made it difficult for the survivors to recover and offers a shield to those who would repeat these horrors in the future. We have a responsibility to close this painful chapter and help the survivors move forward. By acknowledging both Japan's role and remorse, and by contributing to a fund for the survivors, Japan is setting an example for the world that such crimes cannot be forgotten, ignored, or repeated. I hope that this will help the survivors and the people of Korea and Japan to move forward in peace." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://cole.house.gov/real-achievements Real Achievements 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Republican House OK Tom Cole C001053 cole.house.gov     legacy Despite the commonly held opinion that this has been an unproductive Congress, I believe that this year lawmakers have proved that the federal government can function under regular order and responsibly get the work of the American people done. It is especially encouraging that, even in the era of divided government, there are a number of legislative achievements that can make all Americans rest assured that the work of the people, through their elected representatives, is indeed getting done. Since this spring, lawmakers have been working on legislation to responsibly fund the government, and this year marked the first time since 2006 that all 12 spending bills were passed through the Appropriations Committee in both chambers. In the House of Representatives, six of those funding bills passed by bipartisan majority votes on the floor. However, it wasnt until after a long negotiation between leaders in both chambers of Congress and in communication with the president that worry of another government shutdown was finally laid to rest. Guided by funding levels previously agreed to in the Bipartisan Budget Act and spending recommendations from the groundwork laid in the Appropriations subcommittees, the resulting omnibus legislation passed before Christmas represented an acceptable, albeit imperfect, compromise. Passed by a strong majority in Congress and signed by the president, it not only keeps the government open but it provides financial peace and much needed stability for a full fiscal year. It is important to note that more than 60 percent of the spending in the so-called omnibus bill went to fund the military and support our veterans. During the same week that Congress passed vital legislation to fund the government, lawmakers also supported and the president signed into law a bill that permanently extends more than 20 temporary tax provisions. In addition to helping out individuals and job creators and boosting economic growth, the law also encourages comprehensive tax reform, reduces potential fraud and ab… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://foxx.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398788 Clemmons man inspires new legislation adopted by Congress 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Republican House NC Virginia Foxx F000450 foxx.house.gov     legacy It has taken nearly five years, but a Clemmons financial advisors idea to alter language on the federal IRA accounts was adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives last week.Shepherded through by U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx, the bill streamlines SIMPLE IRA rollovers. Paul Johnson of Clemmons first brought it to her attention. Johnson said the process had given him some indication about how cumbersome the law making process can be. In some ways, I am glad bills take a while to get passed. I think my clients are going to be pleased that Congresswoman Foxx managed to get this bill passed. I faxed Senators Burr and Tillis last week, asking them to support the Senate version that included my bill, he said. With rare bipartisan support, the legislation corrects a technical limitation preventing the rollover of tax-deferred retirement funds into existing SIMPLE IRA accounts. When I received an email from Congresswoman Foxx policy advisor I was excited that my small idea for a bill was passed this month, said Johnson One of the best retirement plans for small businesses is the SIMPLE IRA. Owners can offer employees a way to save for retirement without all those fees in 401(k)s. My clients were frustrated when they could not roll their other retirement savings into their SIMPLE IRA and have just one account. I wondered if Congress could reverse the prohibition on employees to consolidate of other accounts into the SIMPLE IRA. My respect for Congresswoman Foxx led me to reach out to her. Five years ago, after her re-election in 2010, I sent a fax asking for a change in the law so that clients could consolidate. She met with me and replied that she would work on it. She and her staff spent over 35 hours researching the ERISA regulations, the history of the bill and wrote it. She had to get acceptance that it was revenue neutral and find a Democrat as a co-sponsor. She told me that she went to a Democrat from Massachusetts and asked for his co-sponsorship by saying I have a constituent who says this is important for his client… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-decries-noaa%E2%80%99s-restrictive-summer-flounder-quota Pallone Decries NOAAs Restrictive Summer Flounder Quota 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Democrat House NJ Frank Pallone P000034 pallone.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) decried the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) final rule on 2016 summer flounder catch limits released today. Under the rule, the summer flounder acceptable catch limit is being reduced by 30 percent, from 23 million pounds to 16 million pounds. I am most disappointed in the restrictive rule for our commercial and recreational fishermen in New Jersey. They depend on a sufficient summer flounder quota and without one, New Jerseys economy faces a threat as it continues to rebound from Superstorm Sandy, said Congressman Pallone. I am fully committed to working with my New Jersey colleagues and pressing NOAA for more favorable catch limits in the future. Earlier this year, Pallone submitted a letter to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC), which reviews the quota process prior to NOAA. In his letter, which was signed by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), Pallone requested less restrictive quota limits for summer flounder stock. The letter is available HERE. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/president-signs-pallone%E2%80%99s-bill-ban-microbeads-cosmetics President Signs Pallones Bill to Ban Microbeads in Cosmetics 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Democrat House NJ Frank Pallone P000034 pallone.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced that President Obama today signed into law Pallones Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015. The legislation will prohibit the manufacture and sale of personal care products that contain plastic microbeads. These small bits of plastic, used as exfoliants in personal care products, like face wash and toothpaste, can slip through water treatment systems after they are washed down the drain. As a result, these microbeads often end up in local streams, rivers and larger bodies of water. The law will ban themanufacturing of personal care products containing plastic microbeads effective July 1, 2017. Pallone introduced the bill earlier this year with Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI-06). The Presidents signature on this legislation is a major victory for U.S. waterways and the environment, said Congressman Pallone. Without the ban, an estimated eight trillion plastic microbeads pollute U.S. waterways each day, threatening the environment and ultimately our health. My bill is a commonsense, bipartisan solution to this little-known but serious problem. Scientists have found evidence of microbeads in numerous bodies of water in the United States, including increasingly in the Great Lakes, the worlds largest source of freshwater. In addition to contributing to the buildup of plastic pollution in waterways, microbeads can be mistaken by fish and other organisms as food. If consumed by fish, the chemicals found in synthetic plastic microbeads can then be passed on to other wildlife and humans. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-south-korea-japan-deal-marks-progress Rep. Pascrell: South Korea-Japan Deal Marks Progress 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Democrat House NJ Bill Pascrell P000096 pascrell.house.gov     legacy PATERSON, N.J. Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) issued a statement on the historic accord reached between South Korea and Japan regarding so-called 'comfort women' who were held in sexual slavery by Japans Imperial Army during World War II. "I want to applaud the governments of both South Korea and Japan for completing this historic joint announcement, a giant step forward for relations between two key allies across the Pacific," Rep. Pascrell said. "While not an end to the suffering that these women endured, with the formal apology from Japan, the historical truth of this atrocity can no longer be denied or forgotten. That is at the heart of the progress made today." Pascrell represents the Borough of Palisades Park, which is home to the first monument dedicated to the comfort women in the United States. He is also a former member of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus and has been critical of Japan's recognition of the issue over the years. Pascrell proudly cosponsored the comfort women resolution, H. Res. 121, which called for the Japanese government to acknowledge and apologize for their Imperial militarys coercion of young women into sexual slavery during the 1930s and 1940s. This resolution was passed by voice vote on July 30, 2007. Pascrell was also one of only a few members of Congress that spoke at a reception in Washington hosted by Japanese American Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA-17) and Korean American Civic Empowerment (KACE) commemorating the fifth anniversary of H.R. 121. Last June, Pascrell and 17 colleagues sent a bipartisan letter to the Ambassador of Japan to the United States calling the timing and contents of a Japanese government report on the Kono Statement about the sexual enslavement of over 200,000 women by the Japanese Army during World War II regrettable and unfortunate. The Kono Statement, issued by the Japanese government in 1993, acknowledged the Japanese Armys sexual enslavement of women, but did not offer a formal apology. The 2014 report investigated the circumstances of t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-historic-comfort-women-agreement-between-south-korea-and Pelosi Statement on Historic Comfort Women Agreement Between South Korea and Japan 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Democrat House CA Nancy Pelosi P000197 pelosi.house.gov     legacy Contact: Drew Hammill/Evangeline George,202-226-7616 San Francisco Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released this statement today following the agreement between South Korea and Japan that accepts the latter government's formal acknowledgment and apology for the Imperial Armed Forces' coercion of young women, known as 'comfort women', into sexual slavery during Japan's occupation of Asia and the Pacific Islands during the World War II era: Today, so-called comfort women who lived in terror during the Second World War have finally received the apology they have demanded for decades. This historic agreement between South Korea and Japan represents a victory for the survivors and a victory for global human rights. By formally acknowledging and apologizing for this World War II-era atrocity, Japan atones for its past and asserts that human dignity and liberty are universal human rights. May the hundreds of thousands of women forced by the Japanese Imperial Army into sexual slavery know that the world will forever remember their courage and determination to win justice. For the women who survive, may this agreement bring peace. For the South Korean and Japanese people, may this agreement signal the start of a new era of brotherhood. Following years of international efforts, including the Comfort Women Resolution passed by the House in 2007, the global community applauds this agreement. As we work together with our allies to transform a painful past into a brighter future, we commend the determined, bold leadership of South Korean President Park Geun-hye and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. This agreement brings honor to both the South Korean and Japanese people and hope for a better, more harmonious future. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-king-says-us-airstrikes-haven-t-weakened-isis Rep. King says US airstrikes havent weakened ISIS 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Republican House NY Peter King K000210 peteking.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Rep. Peter King said the leader of ISIS is likely correct to conclude the barrage of US-led airstrikes have failed to weaken the terror group. Unfortunately, overall, hes probably right, King (R-NY) told Fox News Sunday, referring to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-proclaimed ISIS leader who said the months-long air campaign had failed and ISIS was expanding and getting stronger. After 15, 16 months of air attacks by the US, its had really minimal impact on ISIS, said King, a member of the House Homeland Security Committee. He added: ISIS, I believe, is stronger than it was 16 months ago. They certainly have a larger land mass under their control. Theres no doubt ISIS is planning increased attacks against the US. He also called for stepped up surveillance of the Muslim community and said federal authorities should be allowed to infiltrate mosques. They can cry all they want, the fact is thats where the threat is coming from, King said. We are kidding ourselves [with] blind political correctness. Muslim American leaders gathered in Washington last week to condemn the terrorist attacks and pledged to do more to root out radicalization, educate the public and condemn anti-Muslim rhetoric, exacerbated by Donald Trumps plan to ban-Muslims from entering the US. But King accused the Muslim community of more often than not failing to alert authorities of someone suspicious. On Long Island, here, where youve had people in mosques who have spoken radically, who spoke of their intentions to be involved in jihad, it was never told to the police, King said. There was one imam New York police confided in about a suspected bomb plot, King said, but he alerted the father of the subway bomber who was planning attacks in September 2009. He was the one guy they trusted and he tipped off the enemy, King said. A guy who was coming to New York to kills thousands of New Yorkers. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-peter-king-says-air-strikes-against-isis-are-not-enough-recommends Rep. Peter King says air strikes against ISIS are not enough, recommends monitoring Muslim communities 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Republican House NY Peter King K000210 peteking.house.gov     legacy What doesnt kill ISIS makes it stronger. That was the message Sunday from Rep. Peter King, who said that the Islamic States leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was telling the truth when he said the U.S. and Russia had done little to halt his army of bloodthirsty militants. Unfortunately overall he is probably right that after 15 months of, 16 months of air attacks by the U.S., its had really minimal impact on ISIS, considering how long those attacks have been going on, King said on Fox News Sunday. The comments come a day after the 24-minute recording from Baghdadi surfaced. In the recording Baghdadi urged his soldiers to be patient because you are on the right path. The U.S.-led alliance does not scare us... nor do they scatter our resolve because we are the victors in any event, he said. Baghdadi declared that the caliphate in Syria and Iraq was doing well despite an international alliance against it that includes Saudi Arabia. America and its allies dream of destroying the caliphate through their proxies and henchmen, and whenever an alliance of theirs fails or a tail is cut, they hasten to establish another, Baghdadi said. The Republican Congressman from Long Island reiterated that the best way to prevent further ISIS attacks in the U.S. was more surveillance of Muslim communities. Critics say the controversial move would further dissuade law-abiding people from contacting the authorities for fear of being suspected of becoming radicalized. This is nothing against Muslims, but the fact is that is where the threat is coming from. And we are kidding ourselves. We have this blind political correctness, which makes no sense, King said. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://royce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397861 These are the 10 most effective lawmakers in the U.S. Congress 2015-12-28 2015 2015-12 Republican House CA Edward Royce R000487 royce.house.gov     legacy Public approval of Congress is near historic lows. Journalists, scholars, and presidential candidates regularly express frustration with Congresss inability to get anything done. So which members of the U.S. House are skilled at overcoming gridlock and successfully making laws?Building on our existing research on legislative effectiveness in the United States Congress, we have updated our Legislative Effectiveness Scores (LES) to include those House members who served in the 113th Congress (2013-14). As described in our recently published book, the Legislative Effectiveness Score is constructed to measure how successful a given representative is at moving his or her own legislative agenda items (meaning, sponsored bills) through different stages of the legislative process, where each of those bills is also coded for its substantive significance. The specific formula for the LES can be found here. Drawing on these updated scores, the following tables identify the five most effective representatives from the Republican and Democratic Parties, respectively. Most Effective Republican Representatives (Name/State and District) Dave Camp (MI-4) Darrell Issa (CA-49) Ed Royce (CA-39) Doc Hastings (WA-4) Don Young (AK) Most Effective Democratic Representatives (Name/State and District) Earl Blumenauer (OR-3) Richard Nolan (MN-8) Elijah Cummings (MD-7) Kurt Schrader (OR-5) Derek Kilmer (WA-6) All of them except Camp and Hastings are now serving in the current 114th Congress. Our research suggests that effective lawmakers in one Congress are more likely to produce landmark laws in the next. Given the success of these representatives, should we be optimistic that the current Congress can tackle major issues? On the Republican side, we see that these most-effective representatives have introduced many bills (H.R.s) into the House. Despite an arguably contentious environment, they have had a good deal of success. Issa, for example, sponsored the FOIA Act (H.R. 653) and the First Responders Passp… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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