Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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91 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "OK" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/delivering-safe-and-effective-vaccines | Delivering Safe and Effective Vaccines | 2020-12-29 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | While 2020 has certainly been one of the most challenging years in modern history and recent memory, there is hope on the horizon that better days are ahead. Although the world is still reeling from the destruction caused by the coronavirus pandemic, glimmers of hope are brightening more each day with the discovery, development and delivery of safe and effective vaccines to save lives and eliminate COVID-19's stranglehold on society. Indeed, this scientific achievement is coming faster than any other time in human history, and for that, we can and should be exceedingly grateful. As you might know, vaccines to fight infectious diseases normally take several years to develop and distribute. However, thanks to Operation Warp Speed (OWS), the United States has miraculously been able to race toward discovery of lifesaving vaccines, treatments and therapeutics for COVID-19 in a matter of months. Initiated by the Trump Administration in mid-May, OWS established a public-private partnership between relevant federal agencies including the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense and pharmaceutical companies. Since it was created, OWS has not only supported some of the scientific research but it has enabled more rapid development and testing of vaccine candidates, allowing promising candidates to undergo clinical trials at essentially the same time as regulatory approval and preparation for mass production. Delivering a vaccine in record time has led some to have concerns about safety. However, I want to assure you that the accelerated turnaround is not the result of cutting corners or ignoring the existing safety standards required by statute. Indeed, from research and development to clinical trials to emergency use authorization (EUA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has remained closely involved every step of the way. In fact, clinical trials on promising vaccine candidates cannot even proceed without the FDA's clearance to do so. Moreover, a Data Safety Monitoring Board advises pharmac… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-presidential-request-to-increase-stimulus-checks | Cole Supports Presidents Request to Increase Stimulus Checks | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he supported the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020, which would increase the amount on the coming stimulus checks to be received by most Americans to $2,000 per adult along with $600 per child. The wrath of the coronavirus pandemic has caused unprecedented hardships for many Americans, and I applaud President Trump for urging Congress to deliver more targeted relief to individuals and families in the form of stimulus checks. I am proud to support the president's request to increase the amount on checks soon to reach most Americans, providing additional help as we continue to grapple with the uncertainties and challenges facing our communities. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-votes-to-override-ndaa-veto | Cole Votes to Override Veto of NDAA | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to override the recent presidential veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021. With Cole's support, the House voted 322-87 to override the veto. I am disappointed by the president's decision to veto the National Defense Authorization Act, which is vitally important to supporting and strengthening our common defense and ensuring our service members have the resources they need to keep us safe. As the representative for the Fourth Congressional District of Oklahoma, which includes Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City and Fort Sill in Lawton, I could not vote to sustain the president's veto. If Congress does not enact the NDAA for fiscal year 2021, it will cost military families their extra combat and flight pay, effectively giving them an undeserved pay cut for Christmas and shamefully disregarding the selfless sacrifices they daily make to ensure our shared safety and security. While I understand the president's concerns with certain provisions, I believe that this NDAA, in its entirety, makes essential progress in meeting our national security objectives. To be clear, we can and should address the president's valid concerns in other legislation, but I will certainly not jeopardize the important missions at Tinker and Fort Sill or the brave men and women who carry them out. Following passage of the NDAA Conference Report in the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month, Cole penned a column here about the importance of enacting the legislation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-votes-enact-ndaa-law-applauds-inhofe-s-leadership | Lucas Votes to Enact NDAA Into Law, Applauds Inhofes Leadership | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to enact theWilliam M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year2021into law. The bipartisan, bicameralNational Defense Authorization Act(NDAA) authorizes funding for our nation's armed services and retirees as well as a number of Oklahoma's military installations. The enactment of the Mac Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act into law is the 60th consecutive time Congress has passed and ensured the National Defense Authorization Act has become law. Our nation's defense and those who serve within its ranks are well-supported by this critical piece of legislation,said Congressman Lucas.While Congress shares President Trump's concerns regarding Section 230, a provision which deserves its fair share of congressional scrutiny, Congress must not miss the opportunity to pass such a strong bill that provides for our Armed Service members, supports military families, and includes meaningful measures that counters aggression shown by Russia and China. I would also like to express my appreciation for Senator Inhofe's work in negotiating this agreement, which stretches over 1200 pages and took months to put together. His role as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee was critical in crafting legislation that reflects our nation's values and makes our country safer. There is no doubt that Oklahoma is fortunate to have his strong support while leading the Armed Services Committee, and I am proud to support his efforts to make sure our military has the resources it needs to protect our country. Notable Provisions Related to Military Personnel, Bases in Oklahoma's Third District The Conference Report includes language which protects the KC-135 tanker until technical issues are fixed during the production of the KC-46, which benefits Altus Air Force base's fleet of KC 135's. The measure includes over $86 million dollars to support KC-46 T… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-votes-favor-cash-act-supports-president-s-request-increasing-direct | Lucas Votes in Favor of CASH Act, Supports Presidents Request Increasing Direct Stimulus | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 9051- theCaring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act.Lucas supported the legislation. The coronavirus pandemic has caused tremendous societal and economic hardships across Oklahoma and the United States. While a number of our communities have begun to recover, many Oklahomans and families are falling even further behind and are now faced with the consequences of delaying bill payments in order to purchase necessities for their families. Our recovery will depend significantly on the course of the virus in our communities, but during times of need, Congress must provide stability and a bridge for individuals and families until we are fully on the path of recovery,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).Joining with President Trump, I'm hopeful the aid the House voted on tonight will further assist Oklahomans during this historic pandemic and economic crisis. TheCASH Actincreases the value of the economic impact payments (EIPs) proved in the end-of-year relief package so that each eligible family member receives $2,000, up from $600. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-lucas-priorities-included-covid-relief-federal-funding-package | ICYMI: Lucas Priorities Included in COVID Relief, Federal Funding Package | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Earlier this week, Congress passed H.R. 133- theConsolidated Appropriations Act, providing coronavirus relief and federal appropriations until September 30, 2021. The bipartisan, bicameral package included a number of important priorities supported by Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03), benefiting individuals, families, workers, and businesses across Oklahoma. Key priorities included in theConsolidated Appropriations Actinclude: RAMP-UP ACT: The coronavirus pandemic led to significant disruptions and temporarily reduced meat production, leading to challenges in the meat supply chain for both producers and consumers. In July, Congressman Lucas introduced theRAMP-UP Actwith Congressman Collin Peterson (MN-07), to establish a grant program to help small meat processors make improvements necessary to meet federal food safety standards and bolster the meat supply chain. Included in theConsolidated Appropriations Actis an amended version of theRAMP-UP Act, establishing a $60 million grant program for small meat and poultry processors to upgrade operations in order to move to federal inspection or a state inspection program that allows for the sale of produces across state lines. Grants may be used for modernizing or expanding facilities, modernizing equipment, and implementing other processes to ensure food safety. PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM STREAMLINED FORGIVENESS: In March, Congressman Lucas supported theCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security(CARES)Act, which created the Paycheck Protection Program. In July, Lucas introduced thePaycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act, which would expedite the forgiveness of Paycheck Protection Program loans of $150,000 or less. TheConsolidated Appropriations Actcreates a simplified Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness application for loans under $150,000 whereby the borrower signs and submits a one-page certification that requires the borrower to list the loan amount, the number of employees retained, and the estimate… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-full-fy-2021-funding-coronavirus-relief | Cole Supports Full-Year Funding and Coronavirus Relief | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after the United States Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The legislative package passed yesterday provides full-year funding for the annual operations across the entirety of the federal government as well as $900 billion of coronavirus pandemic relief. Cole supported the legislation. Although I wish Congress had acted sooner, I am grateful that lawmakers ultimately fulfilled one of their most fundamental responsibilities by passing legislation to fully fund the government for fiscal year 2021 and also deliver desperately needed and long-awaited pandemic aid, said Cole. While the resulting bill is massive and far from perfect, at the end of the day, it reflects the priorities and best interests of the American people for the months to come. Moreover, it prevents the added pain of a government shutdown amid the ongoing hardships our country and people have faced this year. In completing the annual appropriations for the whole of government, I am encouraged by the increased funding devoted to the National Institutes of Health to further support vital biomedical research and pandemic preparedness, which must remain at the forefront for years to come. I am also proud that it provides the funding and resources for our nation's defense to tackle the evolving challenges of our day. After months of needless stalling by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats, I am relieved that targeted coronavirus relief will finally be able to make its way to Americans struggling because of the pandemic. This includes finally extending the Paycheck Protection Program to help small businesses keep their employees on the payroll, renewing unemployment insurance for unemployed workers and providing a second round of economic impact payments to most Americans. And rightly so, the coronavirus aid supports vaccine distribution as more start to become available. Cole also made remarks … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4392 | Mullin Bill Increasing Resources for Urban Indian Health Organizations Heads to President Trumps Desk | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Today, legislation sponsored by Congressmen Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tina Smith (D-MN) increasing resources for Urban Indian Health Organizations (UIHOs) heads to President Trump's desk after passing both the House and Senate. H.R. 6535 will expand Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) coverage to UIHOs, redirecting hundreds of thousands of dollars in liability costs to patient care. The Indian Health System, commonly referred to as the ITU system, is made up of the Indian Health Service (IHS), Tribal health programs, and UIHOs. UIHOs provide culturally competent care for the more than 70 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives who live in urban centers. H.R. 6535 would create parity within the ITU system by extending FTCA coverage to UIHOs, who currently are forced to divert precious financial resources away from health care in order to foot exorbitant liability costs. Urban Indian Health Organizations play a critical role in providing health care to Native Americans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mullin said. Our bill ensures they are covered by the FTCA so they won't have to use their limited resources to cover costly liability insurance. I want to thank Congressman Gallego and Senators Lankford and Smith for working with me on this bipartisan legislation to improve health care for Native Americans. The Coverage for Urban Indian Health Providers Act not only undoes the unfair and impractical disparate treatment of urban Indian organizations under FTCA, but it provides a much-needed infusion of resources to these programs, including Native Heath in my District, that are on the front lines of this pandemic, said Gallego. We cannot afford to leave urban Indians without access to care during and beyond this public health crisis. I am grateful to my colleagues for their support of this bill. Urban Indian health providers should not have to pay more for their liability insurance simply because they are in an urban area. This bill will ensu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-receives-covid-19-vaccine | Cole Receives COVID-19 Vaccine | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after receiving the first of two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech over the weekend. As part of continuity of government protocols, the Office of the Attending Physician has made available and recommended administration of the vaccine to all members of Congress. The fact that the United States has deployed a vaccine to fight COVID-19 within less than a year is not only a scientific marvel but a testament to American brilliance and ingenuity. This achievement would not have been possible without Operation Warp Speed, which envisioned and forged a way to rapidly discover and deliver a safe and effective vaccine to save lives without cutting any corners. At the recommendation of the Office of the Attending Physician and to demonstrate my total confidence in this vaccine, I received my first dose over the weekend. While vaccinations are a personal decision, defeating this terrible coronavirus is a war we must fight and win together. We can all do our part by taking the vaccine as soon as it becomes available to us all. Cole is Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, which provides annual funding for the Department of Health and Human Services. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/a-vaccine-in-record-time | A Vaccine in Record Time | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | When this year began, none of us expected to face a global pandemic that would steal hundreds of thousands of American lives, inflict unprecedented damage on our economy, disrupt business as usual and uproot life as we know it. But although the United States certainly did not create the coronavirus crisis, our country has led in the mission to eliminate the virus and restore our way of life by seeking to deliver a vaccine in record time. As we celebrate Christmas this week and look toward 2021, I am grateful that vaccines are already beginning to reach frontline health care workers and the most vulnerable in our communities, providing hope for better days ahead. I urge you not to miss how remarkable this achievement is for our country and for humanity. Historically, delivery of a vaccine has never been completed in less than a year. In fact, while the fastest a vaccine has been discovered and deployed is four years, the vaccine development process usually takes as long as 10-15 years. But thanks to Operation Warp Speed (OWS), two vaccines are now ready to aid in the fight against COVID-19, with more likely to be approved for emergency use in the coming days and months. As you might know, OWS was initiated by the Trump Administration in mid-May and established a public-private partnership between relevant federal agencies including the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense and pharmaceutical companies. Since it was created, OWS has not only supported some of the scientific vaccine research but it has enabled more rapid development and testing of vaccine candidates. This accelerated timeline is not from cutting corners or sacrificing safety. It is made possible by smart adaptations to the usual process. Notably, OWS has allowed promising vaccine candidates to undergo clinical trials at essentially the same time as regulatory approval and preparation for mass production. Moreover, OWS has led to the pre-purchase of hundreds of millions of doses. That means that once a vaccine candidate … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congress-renews-its-commitment-american-people-passes-covid-relief-omnibus | Congress Renews Its Commitment to the American People, Passes COVID Relief, Omnibus Legislation | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 133- theConsolidated Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2021, providing COVID-19 relief to American individuals, families, and businesses as well as appropriations for Fiscal Year 2021: Nine months ago, Congress passed the largest rescue package in American history. The bipartisan CARES Act provided more than $2 trillion in relief for American workers and families, resources for healthcare providers and professionals, and emergency lending to lessen the economic impact of the coronavirus. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives renewed its commitment to the American people and passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, providing critical assistance again to individuals, families, and businesses as well as important funds to aid in the distribution of coronavirus vaccines. Oklahomans can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks to the unprecedented response of scientists and doctors across the globe, Oklahoma is on the verge of receiving another safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine- produced by Moderna and just recently approved for use by the FDA. Just as science has responded so has the American economy, but unfortunately, many in our communities are still under financial strain. The package passed today provides Paycheck Protection Program loans helping the hardest-hit businesses, delivers additional federal unemployment aid, and gives individuals and families more direct stimulus- all a bridge through the next few months until mass immunization occurs. It also provides funding for K-12 schools to reopen safely and responsibly as well as an investment of $69 billion for the procurement and distribution of coronavirus vaccines. In addition to the relief for millions of Americans, the Consolidated Appropriations Act also properly and fully funds government operations until September 30, 2021. Ensuring the government is responsibl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/december-18-2020 | Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | 100 E. 13th St Suite 213 Ada, OK 74820 Phone: (580)436-5375 Fax: (580)436-5451 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-preserve-apollo-landing-site | House Passes Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Preserve Apollo Landing Site Heritage | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Senate companion bill toH.R. 3766, the One Small Step to Protect Human Heritage in Space Act.H.R. 3766 was introduced in July 2019 byChairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX),Ranking Member Frank Lucas (R-OK),Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics Chairwoman Kendra Horn (D-OK), andSubcommittee on Space and Aeronautics Ranking Member Brian Babin (R-TX). The Senate companion,S. 1694, that passed the House today, introduced by U.S. SenatorsGary Peters (D-MI)andTed Cruz (R-TX),enacts protections for the Apollo siteheritageby making NASA's recommendationson protecting and preserving U.S. government lunar artifactsa requirement forthe agency and its partners'future activities on the Moon. Additionally, the legislation directs NASA toinform other relevant Federal agencies of the recommendations, and honors the over 400,000 scientists, designers, and researchers who contributed to the Apollo programs, including NASA's Hidden Figures like Katherine Johnson an African American mathematician who worked at NASA for 35 years and calculated the trajectory of the Apollo 11 flight to the moon as well the trajectories for the spaceflights of astronauts John Glenn and Alan Shepard. I am pleased that the House passed the One Small Step to Protect Human Heritage in Space Act' today, saidChairwoman Johnson.Apollo remains a beacon of inspiration and a symbol of what we, as a nation, can accomplish. I have long advocated for the preservation of the Apollo artifacts, which hold deep cultural, historical, and scientific value for not only the United States, but for all of humanity. It is important that NASA and the United States lead the way in guiding responsible behavior in space, and this legislation to preserve our human heritage in space is, itself, one small step in practicing that leadership. The Apollo landing sites mark one of humanity's greatest achievements: the first time we were able to do more than look up at the sky, but actually leave ou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/evolving-challenges | Evolving Challenges | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Last week, both chambers of Congress passed the same version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021, sending it to the president's desk. This marks the 60th consecutive year that lawmakers have delivered this bipartisan legislation. Indeed, authorizing resources to support our nation's common defense through passage of the NDAA each year is one of the most critical responsibilities of Congress. Enacting the NDAA is vital to sustaining and strengthening programs and resources to keep our nation safe while also supporting the devoted and brave individuals who make every mission possible. This has been a particularly difficult year for us all due to the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, and our military service members have carried and overcome new burdens in response. Along with their usual assignments and duties, many of our devoted service members have navigated new and unexpected challenges, including being called upon to serve on the front lines of the pandemic. As vaccines for COVID-19 start to become available for use in the United States, the Department of Defense (DOD), in partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services, will be tasked to distribute vaccines in record time. I am pleased that the NDAA, passed by Congress, includes funding for essential missions, such as this, as our nation faces the ongoing crisis. While many of our service members will directly aid in the ongoing fight to eliminate this terrible virus, others will continue to dutifully protect us at home and abroad. I am encouraged that the NDAA ensures our service members have the resources to stay safe and healthy, so they can continue to selflessly serve our country in other assignments. These provisions include maintaining a plentiful supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring access to diagnostic equipment and testing capabilities and providing health benefits for our National Guardsmen courageously aiding in coronavirus response efforts at home. An alarmin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4385 | Mullin Signs Amicus Brief Supporting Texas Lawsuit | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Signs Amicus Brief Supporting Texas Lawsuit f t # e Washington, December 11, 2020 Yesterday, Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) signed an amicus brief supporting the Texas Attorney General's lawsuit against Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin, which challenges the results of the 2020 presidential election in those states. The American people must have faith in our election system and deserve certainty regarding the 2020 elections, Mullin said. Fair and honest elections are a pillar of our democracy and this brief asks the Supreme Court to fully consider the issues that have been seen in the states. We must all remain committed to protecting the integrity of our democracy and ensuring the will of the people succeeds. A copy of the amicus brief can be found here. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4390 | Mullin Applauds Productive First Year of Task Force on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Applauds Productive First Year of Task Force on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women f t # e Washington, December 11, 2020 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after The Presidential Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives, also known as Operation Lady Justice, released a report on the first year's accomplishments and outlined a strategy for the next year. President Trump is the first president to formally recognize the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and take action to combat it, Mullin said. The first year of Operation Lady Justice has been a productive one and this is a step in the right direction to help prevent our sisters from becoming a statistic. I am proud of the work they have done so far, and I will continue to work with all parties involved to end this epidemic of violence. The Operation Lady Justice report can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/community-action-development-corporation-receives-head-start-grant | Community Action Development Corporation Receives Head Start Grant | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) this week congratulated Community Action Development Corporation (CADC), headquartered in Frederick, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.3 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Beckham, Cotton, Jefferson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Tillman and Washita counties. Community Action Development Corporation has long provided assistance to those in need across several counties and many communities in Oklahoma. This includes fulfilling developmental, educational and nutritional needs of young children,said Congressman Tom Cole.I am delighted that this incredible agency is receiving an HHS grant to support its Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families. These programs make a huge difference in the early development and well-being of children, helping provide a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school. Through educational, employment, and health service programs, Community Action Development Corporation is improving the lives of countless Oklahomans and their families. I'm proud to join my friend, Congressman Tom Cole, in applauding the Agency for their work in Southwestern Oklahoma and announcing a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helping administer Head Start and Early Head Start programs,said Congressman Frank Lucas.Since 1965, Head Start programs have served over 36 million children from low-income families, including infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, by helping promote school readiness, development, and well-being through an array of services. Early childhood education plays a key role in a child's life and puts them on the path to success, both in school and in the future. I thank Community Action Development Corporation for their work, and I applaud them on their recent announcement, which will allow addition… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/december-11-2020 | Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | 100 E. 13th St Suite 213 Ada, OK 74820 Phone: (580)436-5375 Fax: (580)436-5451 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/community-action-development-corporation-receives-head-start-grant | Community Action Development Corporation Receives Head Start Grant | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) this week congratulated Community Action Development Corporation (CADC), headquartered in Frederick, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.3 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Beckham, Cotton, Jefferson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Tillman and Washita counties. Community Action Development Corporation has long provided assistance to those in need across several counties and many communities in Oklahoma. This includes fulfilling developmental, educational and nutritional needs of young children,said Congressman Tom Cole.I am delighted that this incredible agency is receiving an HHS grant to support its Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families. These programs make a huge difference in the early development and well-being of children, helping provide a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school. Through educational, employment, and health service programs, Community Action Development Corporation is improving the lives of countless Oklahomans and their families. I'm proud to join my friend, Congressman Tom Cole, in applauding the Agency for their work in Southwestern Oklahoma and announcing a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helping administer Head Start and Early Head Start programs,said Congressman Frank Lucas.Since 1965, Head Start programs have served over 36 million children from low-income families, including infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, by helping promote school readiness, development, and well-being through an array of services. Early childhood education plays a key role in a child's life and puts them on the path to success, both in school and in the future. I thank Community Action Development Corporation for their work, and I applaud them on their recent announcement, which will allow addi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4383 | Mullin Applauds $79.8 Million Rural Broadband Investment in Eastern Oklahoma | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Applauds $79.8 Million Rural Broadband Investment in Eastern Oklahoma f t # e Washington, December 10, 2020 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) today applauded the Federal Communications Commission's Rural Digital Opportunity Fund auction, which will help rural communities receive access to broadband. 50,617 households or businesses in Oklahoma's Second Congressional District will get access to high-speed broadband in the next 10 years, with a total investment of $79,828,448. My district is the only congressional district in the country where broadband is available to less than half the population, Mullin said. Rural consumers need the bandwidth necessary to deliver educational opportunities for children and adults, telemedicine care for patients, news and entertainment content to consumers, and more markets for businesses' goods and services. This investment will help ensure rural Oklahomans are not left behind in the Internet economy. More information on the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund can be found here. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4384 | Reps. Gabbard and Mullin Introduce Bill to Ensure Title IX Protections for Women and Girls in Sports | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Today, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) introduced H.R.8932, the Protect Women's Sports Act. Given the average difference in abilities conferred by biological sex, this bill would clarify Title IX protections for female athletes is based on biological sex. Title IX was a historic provision championed by Hawaii's own Congresswoman Patsy Mink in order to provide equal opportunity for women and girls in high school and college sports. It led to a generational shift that impacted countless women, creating life-changing opportunities for girls and women that never existed before. However, Title IX is being weakened by some states who are misinterpreting Title IX, creating uncertainty, undue hardship and lost opportunities for female athletes. Our legislation protects Title IX's original intent which was based on the general biological distinction between men and women athletes based on sex,said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. It is critical that the legacy of Title IX continues to ensure women and girls in sports have the opportunity to compete and excel on a level playing field. Title IX was designed to give women and girls an equal chance to succeed, including in sports. Allowing biological males to compete in women's sports diminishes that equality and takes away from the original intent of Title IX. As the father of three girls involved in athletics, I want them to be able to compete on a level playing field. I am proud to lead this bill that will safeguard the integrity of women's sports and ensure female athletes can compete fairly,said Rep. Markwayne Mullin. Background:Since its creation, Title IX has been confronted by various challenges, often resulting in nuanced or situational solutions to the circumstances. This has included considering the fairness of an individual of one sex to play on a team designated for another sex when no such team is available to the individual, such as women's field hockey or men's football. This bill protects the sex-based intention of Title IX protection… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/news-stories/washington-examiner-federally-funded-abortions-on-chopping-block-next-year | Washington Examiner: Ban on federally funded abortions on chopping block next year | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington Examner - Susan Ferrechio House Democrats, eyeing the arrival of President-elect Joe Biden in the White House next year, plan to ramp up efforts to repeal a law that bans abortions funded by taxpayers. Democrats in Congress have long tried to strip Hyde Amendment language from government spending bills. The amendment, named after the late House Judiciary Committee Chairman Henry Hyde, has since 1980 prohibited the use of taxpayer money for most abortions. But Democrats say that increasing abortion restrictions in states, rising economic difficulties, and a new ally in the White House have renewed calls for lawmakers to make a serious attempt at ending the law in the next Congress. Incoming House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro held a hearing last week to highlight criticism of the Hyde Amendment and the view that it hurts women specifically, minority women. "The Hyde Amendment is a discriminatory policy, and for more than 40 years, it has been routinely extended every year as a legislative rider," said DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat. "But the time has come in this current moment to reckon with the norm, with the status quo, and view it through the lens of how it impacts communities of color." The effort to eliminate the restriction received the critical endorsement last week from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a California Democrat and an abortion rights advocate. "Even before I was in Congress, as soon as that Hyde Amendment was there, I was thinking, 'How can we get rid of that?'" Pelosi told reporters on Dec. 10. "So it's long overdue in getting rid of it, in my view." Republicans are gearing up for the fight, which is likely to occur in the annual negotiations over government spending. Democrats have in recent years tried to strip out Hyde language from spending measures but have been blocked because of Republican opposition. But Democrats see a potential sweep of government that could make enabling taxpayer-funded abortion again a reality. Biden, who for years backed the Hyde Amend… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4382 | Mullin Tribal Power Act Passes House | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Today, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Congressmen Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) and Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01) unanimously passed the full House of Representatives. H.R. 5541, the Tribal Power Act, will ensure tribal governments can access the federal resources and assistance they need to advance their energy development initiatives. Full video of Mullin's remarks can be found here. Below are Mullin's remarks on the Tribal Power Act: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise in support of H.R. 5541, the Tribal Power Act. As the only Native American that serves on Energy and Commerce and one who has lived in Indian Country my entire life, this bill is extremely important to Tribes and strategically help us receive capital we need to become energy efficient and enhance our energy infrastructure. I have long been a supporter of the economic benefits American energy brings to our communities. As sovereign nations, Tribes should have the ability to choose and deploy the kind of energy that best works for them. I am proud to co-lead on this very important issue. Mullin also recognized the Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader, Greg Walden, on the House floor. Leader Walden is retiring at the end of this Congress after serving for 22 years, including the past four years as the top Republican on the Energy and Commerce Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-ndaa-conference-report-fy-2021 | Cole Supports NDAA Conference Report for FY 2021 | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. With Cole's support, the conference report passed the House today by a bipartisan vote of 335-78. Authorizing resources to support our nation's common defense through passage of the National Defense Authorization Act each year is a critical responsibility of Congress. This year is no exception, said Cole. This vital legislation rightly authorizes funding for programs and resources to keep our nation safe while also supporting the devoted and brave individuals who make every mission possible. Indeed, along with their usual assignments and duties, many of our devoted service members have navigated new and unexpected challenges, including being called upon to serve on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. Whether they directly aid in the fight to eliminate this terrible virus or continue to dutifully protect us in the field at home and abroad, I am encouraged that the NDAA conference report generously delivers resources to keep our service members safe and healthy including maintaining a sufficient Department of Defense supply of personal protective equipment, ensuring access to diagnostic equipment and testing capabilities and providing health benefits for our National Guardsmen courageously aiding in coronavirus response efforts at home. I am encouraged that the NDAA conference report also prioritizes investments in critical emerging technology and cybersecurity, which is vital to strengthening our military force and protecting our country against increasingly aggressive adversaries like China and Russa. I applaud the leadership of Oklahoma's own Senator Jim Inhofe, who helped negotiate this bipartisan and bicameral conference report. As Chairman of the Senate Armed Service Committee, he understands the needs that must be fulfilled and priori… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-announces-2020-winners-congressional-app-challenge | Cole Announces Fourth District Winners of Congressional App Challenge | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today announced that Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh are the Fourth District of Oklahoma winners of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge, an annual and nationwide competition that fosters engagement and educational growth in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) among middle and high school students. Smith attends Moore High School and Ashpaugh attends Norman High School. Both students also attend Moore Norman Technology Center, where they teamed up to develop their winning app. I am delighted to congratulate Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh as the first Fourth District of Oklahoma winners of the Congressional App Challenge, said Congressman Cole. Their app is a wonderful introduction for beginners of all ages to learn basic coding and have fun in doing so. I am very impressed by their applied skills and knowledge. Certainly, they have very bright futures. Working together, Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh created their winning app Homeward Guides, which focuses on teaching basic coding techniques through a series of games and obstacles. The app, created for Mobile Android, tells a story of guiding a snake home by using various data types used often in coding and displays different coding languages. The Congressional App Challenge helped me learn a lot about teamwork and innovation. I had a lot of fun making an app about something important to me, said Lauren Smith. The Congressional App Challenge has given me the opportunity to learn how to work with others virtually and helped me learn how to communicate goals while working on big programming projects, said Katrina Ashpaugh. A video demonstration of the app can be found here. Background on the Congressional App Challenge Launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, the Congressional App Challenge each year invites students to create an application (app) for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, raspberry Pi or other devices using any programming language such as C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/reflections-on-pearl-harbor | Reflections on Pearl Harbor | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | This week marks 79 years since the devastating surprise attack at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which former President Franklin D. Roosevelt called the date which will live in infamy. It was this event that officially drew the United States into the Second World War. As we remember the 2,403 innocent Americans lost that day at Pearl Harbor, we also gratefully reflect on the millions more who courageously joined together to defend the United States and our allies and ultimately end the WWII conflict nearly four years later. When I think about the American losses at Pearl Harbor, I am always reminded of the battleship in the bay that proudly bore the name U.S.S. Oklahoma. As you might know, this ship was one of the first struck unexpectedly by Japanese torpedoes, the force of which caused the ship to roll over and sink deep into the harbor. Hundreds of service members were trapped in the overturned wreckage. Some were able to be cut free while others swam out to safety. Sadly, despite the daring efforts of Navy Yard employees and sailors to save their fellow service members, the damage was staggering. Aboard the U.S.S. Oklahoma, 429 marines and sailors were lost a death toll second only to the losses of the U.S.S. Arizona. Moved by the compelling accounts of survivors more than five decades after the U.S.S. Oklahoma was destroyed, an effort was rightly initiated to preserve and honor the memory of the ship and its crew by creating a memorial. As part of that process, 15 years ago, I was proud to insert language in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that authorized construction of this memorial at Pearl Harbor, which was officially opened to visitors 13 years ago this week. While we reflect on the tremendous bravery and sacrifice of Americans at Pearl Harbor, during World War II and other conflicts throughout our nation's history, we are reminded of the ongoing need to prioritize a strong national defense in order to keep the United States and its citizens safe. A critical component includes passing … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delta-community-action-foundation-awarded-head-start-grant | Delta Community Action Foundation Awarded Grant for Head Start Programs | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) congratulated the Delta Community Action Foundation, based in Lindsay, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.5 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Garvin, McClain and Stephens counties. I am very proud that Delta Community Action Foundation is receiving a substantial grant to support facilitation of Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families, said Congressman Cole. Last year, I had the great privilege of visiting Delta Community Action Foundation, including one of their Head Start classrooms. Throughout my visit and during conversations with leadership, teachers and staff, I was greatly moved and inspired by their heart for the community and their commitment to the well-being and success of children at every stage of development. As they continue to serve South Central Oklahoma, this new investment in early childhood education, development and nutrition will help ensure even more children have a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school. Delta Community Action is extremely grateful to be receiving the HHS grant. We are committed to making sure every child that comes through our doors has an opportunity to succeed, said Karen Nichols, Executive Director of Delta Community Action Foundation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/cole-op-ed-southwest-ledger-covid-vaccine-triumphant-achievement | Cole Op-Ed in Southwest Ledger: COVID vaccine a triumphant achievement | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | The following op-ed written Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) was originally published online by theSouthwest Ledger. When we started this year, none of us expected or would have predicted the hardships coming in 2020, most devastatingly due to the global spread of an awful coronavirus that originated in China. The ugly wrath inflicted by this mysterious and deadly invisible enemy has forced leaders from every country on Earth to mitigate the spread as best as they can a feat clearly managed better by some than others. But regardless of one's opinions on how the United States has performed on that front, it is worth recognizing the tremendous efforts led by the Trump Administration to do more than just fight the virus but defeat and eliminate it entirely. Certainly, the best hope we have at saving lives and restoring our way of life is through delivery of treatments, cures and a vaccine for COVID-19. Recognizing the importance of completing such a mission within months instead of years, President Donald Trump set a strategy in motion that the world had never seen before. Initiated in mid-May, President Trump's Operation Warp Speed (OWS) established a historic public-private partnership between relevant federal agencies including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense and pharmaceutical companies. As a result, over the last several months, OWS has not only supported some of the scientific research taking place but enabled more rapid development and testing of vaccine candidates without skipping any steps or sacrificing safety and regulatory standards. The accelerated timeline made possible by OWS is due to smart adaptations to the usual process. Notably, OWS has allowed promising vaccine candidates to undergo clinical trials at the same timeas regulatory approval and preparation for mass production. Moreover, OWS has led to the pre-purchase of hundreds of millions of doses. That means that once a vaccine candidate is deemed effective and approved for emergency use, it can be distri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-returns-republican-leader-science-space-technology-committee | Lucas Returns as Republican Leader of Science, Space, Technology Committee | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after being re-elected by his colleagues as the Republican Leader of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology for the 117th Congress: I'm honored to be given the opportunity to continue leading House Science Committee Republicans in the 117th Congress, Lucas said. This is a crucial time for America's scientific and technological progress. We're facing a growing threat from China, which seeks to outpace us through whatever means necessary, and we have a responsibility to protect taxpayer-funded research from foreign theft. We also have the opportunity to encourage the next generation of clean energy technologies, which will lower energy prices for Americans while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We're poised to return humans to the Moon for the first time in a generation, and to plan historic crewed missions to Mars. Every day we're seeing new discoveries and leaps forward in fields from supercomputing, to vaccine development, to weather prediction. There has never been a more exciting time for science in America, and I'm eager to work with my colleagues to support our research enterprise. In his tenure as Ranking Member, Lucas has focused on keeping America at the cutting edge of scientific and technological development through investment in basic federal research. His priority legislation, the Securing American Leadership in Science and Technology Act (SALSTA), would double funding for basic research and strategically focus on industries of the future like artificial intelligence, quantum sciences, and advanced manufacturing. Lucas pledged to continue this work in the next Congress. Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy praised Lucas' leadership of the Committee: As Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in the 116th Congress, Frank Lucas focused on conservative policies to keep America at the forefront of scientific knowledge and technological development, prioritized basic re… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/supporting-small-business | Supporting Small Business | 2020-11-30 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Many of our traditions, customs and celebrations have been observed differently this year and more socially distant than we'd like due to the coronavirus pandemic. This holiday season is unfortunately no exception. However, although we must be more creative in how we go about our activities, there are certainly ways to adapt, including how we shop and find the perfect gifts for our loved ones. And over the weekend on Small Business Saturday, we were reminded of how important it is to shop small and shop local during this season. Whether as an employee or owner, Americans have always depended greatly on the success of small businesses, which includes industries beyond retailers and restaurants. In fact, the latest estimate by the Small Business Administration revealed that small businesses in Oklahoma support more than 710,000 jobs statewide, which represents more than half of our workforce. Indeed, we should all take interest in the success of small businesses and their ability to power both the local and national economies. Through their innovation and creativity, entrepreneurs create opportunities not only for themselves but for others as well. Sadly, some of the most devastating economic hits this year have been felt the hardest by America's small businesses. While the federal government has done a lot already to help save and sustain struggling small businesses and their workers, there is more that urgently needs to be done. Quite frankly, such actions should've taken place months ago in Congress. A commonsense place to start would be to reopen the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), as well as ensure banks are quickly processing applications so that small businesses can promptly access these funds. The PPP still has more than $130 billion of unspent money which helps small businesses keep their workers employed. Since it was created, the PPP has helped millions of small businesses keep their doors open and their workers on the payroll. For months, Republicans have pushed for a vote on simple legislation to ex… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4395 | Members of Congress Release Statement on Trump Admin's Rulemaking to Modernize Stark and Anti-Kickback Statutes | 2020-11-25 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Today, Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), Tony Crdenas (D-CA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Ron Kind (D-WI), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), and Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (R-OH) released the following statement in response to final rulemaking released Friday by the Trump Administration to modernize the Stark and Anti-Kickback statutes that work to prevent health care fraud and abuse: As Members of Congress committed to moving our health care system toward one that rewards value over volume, we are pleased these rules improving the Stark and Anti-Kickback statutes were recently finalized, creating new pathways to allow value-based partnerships that don't increase the risk of fraud and abuse to the system. However, we remain concerned that the rules exclude certain entities from participating in these arrangements. We believe that as long as arrangements demonstrate that stakeholders are partnering for the purpose of improving patient care and demonstrate clear outcomes that patients are healthier for it, all entities should be able to participate. Our health care system would become more efficient when incentives align for as many stakeholders as possible to deliver ideal care for the patient. We look forward to working in Congress to continue modernizing these laws and move our health care system into the 21st century. Reps. Bera, Crdenas, Kelly, Kind, Marshall, Mullin, and Wenstruprecently urged the Trump Administration to finalize rules modernizing the Stark and Anti-Kickback laws. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/we-still-give-thanks | We Still Give Thanks | 2020-11-23 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | This has been a very trying year, filled with challenges and difficulties none of us expected to face. While I wish the trials had reached their end, we must hang on and continue to persevere. But as we do, we should also find some comfort in the blessings that exist even in such dark circumstances and recognize the hopeful light at the end of the tunnel. For in times of great abundance or of great hardship, Americans find strength when we come together to give thanks. Indeed, the unifying American tradition of giving thanks has been woven into our history since before our nation came to be. However, it's worth noting that Thanksgiving was made a permanent national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln during a period of extreme difficulty and crisis for the United States: The Civil War. In fact, President Lincoln's Thanksgiving proclamation came just a month and a half before delivering his famous Gettysburg address halfway through the war and amid great uncertainty, uneasiness and what were feared irreconcilable differences. As we continue to navigate and seek to overcome the coronavirus crisis of our own time, our Thanksgiving celebrations will look different than we're used to. Whether we gather around a smaller table or see our loved ones virtually, I hope you'll join in gratitude not only for each other but for the courage and commitment of those continuing to selflessly serve on the front lines of this awful pandemic. We are truly indebted to those who have gotten up each day, left their houses and gone out to fulfill several key roles. We've seen it in our doctors, nurses and health care workers, who have risked their own lives every day to treat COVID-19 patients as well as those with other illnesses and ailments. We've seen it in those transporting essential supplies and making critical deliveries. We've seen it in our farmers and ranchers monitoring our food supply, along with workers in food processing facilities, meat packing plants and grocery stores, who are ensuring we have food to eat. We've seen … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rep-frank-lucas-covid-19-winter-approaches-oklahoma-must-act | The Oklahoman: Rep. Frank Lucas: As COVID-19 winter approaches, Oklahoma must act | 2020-11-23 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Oklahoma set a record for COVID-19 hospitalizations last week, and the United States reached a grim milestone of more than 250,000 coronavirus deaths. After earlier surges in the spring and summer, the country is now in the midst of the feared fall coronavirus surge and we're peering into the darkness that winter will bring. With more than 1,500 Oklahomans now hospitalized and new positive cases averaging more than 2,600 per day, it's time for Oklahoma to act. On Nov. 17 and 18, Oklahoma reported COVID-19 daily records for hospitalizations, ICU patients and deaths. On average, 20% of Oklahoma's hospital beds are filled with those battling COVID-19; ICU bed availability has dropped to between 5% and 7%. Increases in the number of active cases come as many hospitals and their staff, especially those in rural Oklahoma, are being pushed to their limits physically and emotionally. While it's true that more testing reveals more cases, the number of hospitalizations gives Oklahomans an objective measure of rampant community spread of the virus. As deaths rise this winter, Oklahoma's leaders will need to implement steps to slow the spread of COVID. Leaders from Congress to mayors show no support for total lockdowns or stay-at-home orders. But science shows that there are other temporary measures available to keep our communities safe, save lives and ensure Oklahoma flattens the curve. While inconvenient, masks help mitigate spread. Masks allow Oklahoma to preserve health care capacity, help keep schools open and ensure businesses continue to create prosperity for our communities. Simply put, everyone wearing a mask in public will reduce spread of the coronavirus and save lives. As of Nov. 18, 36 states had implemented mask mandates. From Oklahoma's neighbors like Kansas and Texas to states like North Carolina and Alabama, the enforcement of mask mandates varies from state to state, and even community to community based on individual need. As Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the U.S. Food & Dr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4369 | Native American Heritage Month Resolution Filed in House | 2020-11-20 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week led introduction of a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize November as National Native American Heritage Month, honoring tribal nations throughout history. Following introduction, the congressional delegation of Native Americans joined in issuing statements in support of the resolution. Each year during the month of November, I am proud that we pause to reflect on the unique heritage, rich history and special contributions of Native Americans,said Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma.Indeed, the enduring legacy of tribal nations and their members extends far beyond the birth of the United States, and that is a legacy that must be protected. I am pleased to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce a resolution that not only celebrates an incredible heritage but affirms policies that respect the constitutional rights of tribes and preserve the promises made by the federal government. Native American Heritage month is all about recognizing the contributions that American Indians, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiians have made to this country while reflecting upon the systemic racism and failures of the federal government to uphold promises to Native Nations. We must work to ensure the federal government upholds its trust obligation and promote tribal sovereignty so that we move toward a culture shift. We must learn from the dark pages of our history to build a more equitable and brighter future. By giving an elevated voice to Native Americans, we're also drawing attention to the challenges that our Tribal communities still face,said Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna.This year's Native American heritage month comes at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting Native Americans and indigenous communities across the country,… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-november-2020 | Books I'm Reading: November 2020 | 2020-11-20 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As an eternal learner, I am constantly reading. I invite you each month to follow along with what I'm currently reading or check back periodically for hand-picked selections of my favorites. Here's what I'm reading this month: On My Desk The First Congressby Fergus M. Bordewich Fergus Bordewich's The First Congress is a riveting account of the most important Congress in American history. It crafted the Bill of Rights, set up the federal court system, created several executive departments, established a federal revenue system and set innumerable precedents that still shape American political life. Most importantly, it demonstrated that the democratic republic envisioned by the Founders could work. -TC | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/native-american-heritage-month-resolution-filed-in-house | Native American Heritage Month Resolution Filed in House | 2020-11-20 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week led introduction of a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize November as National Native American Heritage Month, honoring tribal nations throughout history. Following introduction, the congressional delegation of Native Americans joined in issuing statements in support of the resolution. Each year during the month of November, I am proud that we pause to reflect on the unique heritage, rich history and special contributions of Native Americans, said Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma. Indeed, the enduring legacy of tribal nations and their members extends far beyond the birth of the United States, and that is a legacy that must be protected. I am pleased to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce a resolution that not only celebrates an incredible heritage but affirms policies that respect the constitutional rights of tribes and preserve the promises made by the federal government. Native American Heritage month is all about recognizing the contributions that American Indians, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiians have made to this country while reflecting upon the systemic racism and failures of the federal government to uphold promises to Native Nations. We must work to ensure the federal government upholds its trust obligation and promote tribal sovereignty so that we move toward a culture shift. We must learn from the dark pages of our history to build a more equitable and brighter future. By giving an elevated voice to Native Americans, we're also drawing attention to the challenges that our Tribal communities still face, said Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna. This year's Native American heritage month comes at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting Native Americans and indigenous communities acr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4367 | House Passes Mullin Legislation to Ensure Timely, Accessible Care for Native American Veterans | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Yesterday, the House unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) to ensure timely, accessible care for Native American veterans. H.R. 6237, the Proper and Reimbursed Care (PRC) for Native Veterans Act, would require the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to reimburse the Indian Health Service (IHS) and Tribally-run health facilities for purchased and referred care (PRC) used for Native American veterans. H.R. 6237 clarifies that VHA is responsible for reimbursing not only direct care to Native veterans provided by a Tribe or IHS, but specialty and contract care provided through a Tribe or IHS. Reimbursing IHS and Tribes for PRC is absolutely vital in making sure Native veterans have timely, affordable access to the care they need and that Tribes and IHS have sufficient resources to treat patients and respond to public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Our nation's Native American veterans deserve access to quality, affordable health care and this bill helps deliver on that promise, Mullin said. IHS and tribally-run health facilities are not only already severely underfunded, but also are often the only option for care for Native American veterans. This commonsense bill will greatly improve the quality of care for veterans by ensuring that those facilities are reimbursed by the Veterans Health Administration for the services they provide, including specialty care. I am glad this bill passed the House and I urge the Senate to act quickly so our Native veterans get the care they need. We appreciate Congressman Mullin's leadership to get this bill passed by the House, which will greatly assist us in delivering high quality health care to our native Veterans, said Chief Gary Batton, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Our Choctaw veterans are courageous warriors -- tvshka (tushka) in the Chahta language who have defended this land through centuries of battles. It is a high priority for the Choctaw Nation to assist our Veterans in receiving their well-deserved benefits, i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/work-left-to-do | The Work Left To Do | 2020-11-15 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As the end of the year draws nearer, unfinished legislative work remains for lawmakers in both chambers of Congress. In the coming days and weeks, it is critically important that members come together to tackle the pressing work left to do. First, Congress needs to provide full-year funding also called appropriations for the federal government. As you might know, annual appropriations support government programs that touch nearly every aspect of our daily lives as well as various facets of the economy including national defense, operating national parks, law and immigration enforcement, health care research and a host of other activities. All of these activities should be funded through 12 annual appropriation bills passed by Congress and signed into law by the president before the start of the fiscal year on October 1. Unfortunately, that legislation has not been completed yet for fiscal year 2021. As a result, government operations are temporarily being funded by a short-term continuing resolution through December 11. I am encouraged that the Senate Appropriations Committee recently unveiled their version of annual funding legislation. However, it will ultimately require time, bipartisanship and good faith negotiation to ensure both chambers can pass and the president will sign any legislation into law. Along with continuing the government's regular functions and preventing a shutdown, Congress still needs to act on additional coronavirus relief for the American people. Both chambers have already shown it's possible to deliver relief in a bipartisan manner, as it did four times earlier this year. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi has for months intentionally stalled progress on a fifth relief package even though bipartisan agreement exists on many things, such as extending the small business saving Paycheck Protection Program. Finally, another critical piece of legislation that awaits completion is the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This annual legislation authorizes funding for the U.S. military and… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/debt-of-gratitude | A Debt of Gratitude | 2020-11-09 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Throughout American history, millions of brave men and women have selflessly answered the call to protect our freedom and preserve liberty by serving in the military. While numerous individuals have fought for the great cause of freedom, it wasn't until after World War I that the United States first set apart a special day just to say, thank you. This week on Veterans Day, we honor and remember our veterans for their awe-inspiring display of courage, sacrifice and devotion. Indeed, whether it's a friend or family member, each of us knows someone who has served or is still serving our country in the military. I often think of the amazing veterans in my own family, including my late uncle and namesake who survived the infamous Bataan Death March as a prisoner of war during World War II. I am also tremendously proud of the service rendered by my late father, who joined the Army Air Corps on the eve of World War II, later retiring as the second most senior master sergeant in the Air Force and renown as one of the best to run a crew that fixed airplanes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are more than 17.4 million veterans currently living in the United States, including more than 306,000 in our communities across the state of Oklahoma. Considering the significant military presence in Oklahoma, including at the Fourth District's own Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City and Fort Sill in Lawton, it's also worth recognizing that thousands more Americans are currently serving on active duty. We are forever indebted to both our veterans and active service members for their devotion. As we gratefully reflect on the patriotism exemplified by our veterans this week on Veterans Day, I wanted to highlight some meaningful projects underway to honor their service for generations to come. As you might know, it was announced earlier this fall that the National Cemetery Administration is awarding a significant federal grant to support construction of a State Veterans Cemetery in Ardmore. This very special project in the Fo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-drug-free-community-grant-award-creek-county-substance-abuse | Lucas Applauds Drug-Free Community Grant Award to Creek County Substance Abuse Partnership Project | 2020-11-05 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Last week, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP)announcedthat the Trump Administration is awarding $125,000 to Oklahoma State University, in corporation with the Creek County Substance Abuse Prevention Partnership, through theDrug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Programto help prevent youth substance abuse. As Oklahoma continues to combat the drug epidemic in our country, I applaud the recent Drug-Free Communities grant announcement, helping prevent youth substance abuse in communities we call home. Through the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the CDC, Oklahoma State University will collaborate with the Creek County Substance Abuse Prevention Partnership to bolster local efforts to combat drug use,said Congressman Lucas (OK-03). Lucas continued,Strengthening community partnerships is critical in battling and preventing youth substance abuse. In order for our communities to remain healthy, we must connect with and educate our children on these dangers. Moving forward, we all have a role to play in preventing substance abuse, and I will continue to support our communities and fight to prevent the use of these harmful drugs in Oklahoma's youth. The DFC Program provides grants to community coalitions to strengthen the infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance use. Recognizing that local problems need local solutions, DFC-funded coalitions engage multiple sectors of the community and employ a variety of environmental strategies to address local substance use problems. CDC is committed to strengthening local capacity to develop innovative, community-based programs that save lives,says Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert R. Redfield, M.D.Our partnership with the ONDCP and with community coalitions is critical to our Nation's efforts to prevent substance use among youth. The Creek County Substance Abuse Partnership Project will utilize evidence-based strategies to redu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/justice-amy-coney-barrett | Justice Amy Coney Barrett | 2020-11-02 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | American history was made recently on October 26, when Amy Coney Barrett was officially confirmed to serve as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. With an outstanding educational background, remarkable career and spotless reputation, Justice Barrett is indeed the right person at the right time to fill the seat of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the highest court in the land. As Justice Barrett demonstrated throughout her confirmation hearings, she is immensely qualified to serve and incredibly knowledgeable as well. Indeed, her exceptional intellect was made evident to all by her ability to recall information and answer questions for a grueling number of hours without taking or referring to any notes. Such brilliance makes it apparent why she graduated at the top of her class from Notre Dame Law School, where she later became a much beloved professor and mentor. Prior to her confirmation to the Supreme Court, Justice Barrett served as a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. That tenure revealed a fair and impartial jurist committed to defending the United States Constitution and interpreting laws as written, not as she wishes it were. A former clerk to the late Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Barrett is also a constitutional originalist. Deeply committed to the philosophy that judges and justices should not legislate from the bench, Justice Barrett remarked during the confirmation process, Courts are not designed to solve every problem or right every wrong in our public life. The policy decisions and value judgements of government must be made by the political branches, elected by and accountable to the people. The public should not expect courts to do so and courts should not try. While it's obvious that Justice Barrett is a smart, well-educated and driven woman, she is also devoted to her husband and family. She is a present and loving mother of seven children, including two who were adopted from Haiti and one with special needs. As the fifth wom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-69-million-rural-electric-investment-western-oklahoma | Lucas Applauds $69 Million Rural Electric Investment in Western Oklahoma | 2020-10-30 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Last week, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdueannouncedthat the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $69 million to build and improve rural electric infrastructure in western Oklahoma. The Rural Development investment, to CKenergy Electric Cooperative, Inc., will be used to connect 1,480 consumers, and build and improve 1,276 miles of line. The investment includes $5,735,046 in smart grid technologies. I'm happy to see CKenergy Electric Cooperative receive this $69 million investment to build and improve essential electric infrastructure across western Oklahoma,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).Safe and reliable electricity are critically important to the livelihoods of my neighbors across the District. I applaud Secretary Perdue and USDA for their investments in rural America, and I thank CKenergy for continuing to serve more than 26,000 members through 7,799 miles of line in 10 counties across western Oklahoma- especially as they work to restore power to those affected by Oklahoma's recent ice storm. Last week's announcement is part of a record level of USDA electric infrastructure investments in one fiscal year. The department invested $6.3 billion in theElectric Loan Programin FY 2020, up from $5.8 billion in 2019 also a record. USDA made loans to 119 utilities in 34 states across the country during FY 2020, which ended on September 30. Those figures build upon the $3.7 billion invested in 2018. Working and accessible rural electric infrastructure is a cornerstone to prosperity in America's heartland,Secretary Perdue said.This critical funding reflects President Trump's commitment to increasing prosperity across all of rural America and ensures this major infrastructure network remains reliable for the millions of Americans who depend on it every day. Helping improve rural electric infrastructure is a significant part of the Trump administration's all-of-the-above energy strategy. USDA's Electric Program helps finance wind, solar and natural gas plants… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/eda-invests-1-million-oklahoma-state-university-assist-oklahoma-manufacturers | EDA Invests $1 Million to Oklahoma State University to Assist Oklahoma Manufacturers | 2020-10-28 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announcedthat the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1 million CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, to assist Oklahoma manufacturers in Northeast and Central Oklahoma respond to the coronavirus pandemic: The Commerce Department and EDA's investment comes at a crucial time as Oklahoma and its businesses recover from the coronavirus pandemic. Oklahoma State University has a long history of partnering with regional manufacturers, providing assistance to growing businesses and insights to shifts in industries,said Congressman Lucas.I'm extremely proud of the work Oklahoma State University has done to help assist local manufacturers and job creators across Northeast and Central Oklahoma. Thanks to OSU's efforts and the EDA's investment, Oklahoma will soon have an additional 500 jobs added to our growing economy. The EDA grant will be matched with $485,000 in local funds and is expected to create 500 jobs. President Trump is working diligently every day to support our nation's economy following the impacts of COVID-19 through the CARES Act,said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.This EDA investment will create a stronger and more resilient economy in Northeast and Central Oklahoma by creating important, new manufacturing opportunities. This investment comes at a crucial time to help Oklahoma's economy come roaring back,said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.The technical assistance to be provided by Oklahoma State University to regional manufactures will address workforce health and safety, shift to new markets, and support other recovery efforts. As Oklahoma recovers from the coronavirus pandemic, the Trump administration continues to make our state a priority,said Senator Jim Inhofe.I am pleased that Oklahoma St… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-named-guardian-small-business-nfib | Lucas Named Guardian of Small Business by NFIB | 2020-10-27 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Last week, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) was named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Awarded every Congress,NFIB's Guardian of Small Business Award is reserved for lawmakers who vote consistently with small business on the key issues identified by small business owners. I'm honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business Award from NFIB. Small, family-owned businesses are the engines to many local economies throughout Oklahoma, and in the wake of COVID-19, it's critically important that we support our local business owners to keep our communities thriving,said Congressman Lucas.I'm proud to represent the thousands of small businesses in Oklahoma's Third District, and I'll always fight for their success. The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is awarded to lawmakers who small businesses can truly count on,saidKevin Kuhlman, NFIB Vice President of Federal Government Relations. These Members of the U.S. House of Representatives are dedicated supporters of the key issues that our members are concerned about and have proven themselves to be real champions for small business. Our policy positions are driven by our members, and we report NFIB Key Votes back to our membership. We are proud to recognize the elected officials from the 116thCongress who earned this distinction by taking pro-small business votes supporting financial assistance programs and tax relief and opposing new regulations and increased labor costs. Small business owners across the country need their support now more than ever during these unprecedented times, and we are grateful to these lawmakers for their leadership. Find a complete list of the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award recipients from the 116thCongresshere. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4355 | Mullin Statement on Confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Statement on Confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett f t # e Washington, October 26, 2020 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after Judge Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed by the Senate to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. Judge Barrett is exceptionally well-qualified and a great choice by President Trump to serve on the highest court in the land, Mullin said. She is dedicated to upholding the Constitution as written, not legislating from the bench, and protecting our fundamental rights. Congratulations to Judge Barrett on her confirmation to the United States Supreme Court. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett-to-supreme-court | Cole Applauds Senate Confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the United States Senate voted to confirm the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States. Amy Coney Barrett will make a fantastic Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States, and I am delighted that the Senate confirmed her nomination. Not only is she immensely qualified when you look at her educational and career credentials alone, but her confirmation hearings proved to everyone watching that she is incredibly sharp and knowledgeable. I applaud President Trump for nominating such a brilliant person and great American to serve on the highest court in the land. As she has done throughout her impressive career, Associate Justice Barrett will indeed be an ardent defender of the Constitution when she assumes her seat on the bench of the Supreme Court. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/precious-right-to-exercise | A Precious Right to Exercise | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | While not all Americans are called to public service, each of us has a role to play in shaping and determining the direction of our country and our communities. With Election Day right around the corner and absentee voting already underway, I encourage you to exercise your precious right to vote and have a say in choosing who will represent you locally and nationally. When our Founding Fathers first dreamed what the United States of America could be and built a democratic framework for our republic to succeed, their aim was not only to protect the rights of citizens but to encourage nationwide participation in government. That special ability to participate in government must never be taken for granted. Indeed, throughout our history, hundreds of thousands have given their lives to protect our way of life and preserve our unique freedoms, including the right to vote. The least we can do is respect their courage and let our voices be heard when the opportunity comes. Since our nation was founded nearly 245 years ago, the United States has confronted many challenges, and the unrelenting hardships experienced this year have been particularly difficult and numerous. However, there is no obstacle too tough for Americans to overcome when we face it together. While it's easy to get swept up in the partisan rhetoric that often runs rampant during election season, I caution you not to demonize your fellow Americans, just because you disagree politically. Especially as we seek an end to the coronavirus crisis and race to restore our way of life, we need each other more than ever. Remember, even on our very worst day, we are still the greatest nation on earth with an even brighter future ahead. Whatever your political persuasion or affiliation, I encourage you to research candidates and cast your ballot on or before Tuesday, November 3. When you express your opinion at the polls, you validate the sacrifice of those who have fought to preserve our freedom throughout history and make America a more perfect union. And whether … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-confirmation-judge-amy-coney-barrett | Lucas Applauds Confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted 52-48 to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to serve as the next Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States: I applaud the United States Senate for confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. During her time as a federal judge, Judge Barrett was a principled, intelligent, and steadfast jurist of the rule of law- and during the confirmation process she assured the American people she'd remain a strong protector of the U.S. Constitution and the laws of our great Nation,said Congressman Frank Lucas(OK-03).I thank Oklahoma's Senators Jim Inhofe and James Lankford for their leadership throughout this process and for their vote confirming the U.S. Supreme Court's fifth female justice. This is truly a historic moment for the U.S. Supreme Court- congratulations Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-leads-bipartisan-efforts-ensuring-covid-19-funds-rural-hospitals | Lucas Leads Bipartisan Efforts Ensuring COVID-19 Funds for Rural Hospitals | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Last week, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) led two letters to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar expressing concerns over recent, now revised, changes to the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) reporting requirements. After receiving feedback from the Members of Congress and other stakeholders, HHS has announced that it will amend its PRF reporting requirements- ensuring Oklahoma's hospitals have access to COVID-19 relief funds. At a time when so many are still struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that our nation's hospitals and providers have the resources and assistance they need in order to keep our communities healthy. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our hospitals have relied on distributions from HHS' Provider Relief Fund to care for thousands of individuals and families and to help them keep their doors open during these challenging times,said Congressman Lucas.I am proud to have led these important letters to HHS, addressing concerns of the now revised reporting requirements for the PRF, which could adversely impact Oklahoma's hospitals by ordering them to return this important funding created by Congress. The pandemic is far from over, and those on the frontlines day in and day out deserve stability and certainty, as they dedicate and commit their lives for the health of our communities. The PRF authorized under theCARES Actprovides critical relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds have been used to help protect the safety of frontline doctors and nurses, ensure access to quality care, and in many cases, have helped enable providers to keep their doors open during these challenging times. On September 19, 2020, HHSannouncedchanges to the PRF reporting requirements that would have forced many hospitals and other providers to return some of this vital funding and jeopardize patients' access to care while the nation continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. In a letter led by U.S. Representatives Frank Lucas (R-OK… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-named-nfib-guardian-of-small-business | Cole Named a Guardian of Small Business by NFIB | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he was named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Awarded every Congress, the recognition is given to legislators who vote in favor of key policies and priorities for small businesses. During his service in the U.S. House of Representatives, Cole has received the award every Congress. I am honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business Award for my longstanding and unwavering commitment to small businesses, which employ millions of Americans. While this has been a difficult year for everyone, small business owners and their dedicated workers have been some of the hardest hit by the wrath of the coronavirus pandemic. As our nation navigates the remaining challenges and works to recover and rebuild our economy, one of the best things we can do is help our small business job creators survive these difficult times. Our nation's prosperity depends on their existence. In the days ahead, I will continue stand with small businesses. Learn more about the awards from NFIB here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-retirement-osu-president-burns-hargis | Cole Statement on Retirement of OSU President Burns Hargis | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after Burns Hargis announced his plans to retire as president of Oklahoma State University (OSU) on July 1, 2021. I want to offer my deepest congratulations and best wishes to my dear friends Burns and Ann Hargis, who have done a remarkable job at the helm of Oklahoma State University for more than a decade. I have always greatly admired their close partnership and shared desire to see OSU's students and campus thrive. OSU is certainly better off because of the historic contributions they have made and improvements they have fostered together. Leading OSU as president has clearly been both a dream job and labor of love for Burns Hargis, who once attended the university himself. Throughout his distinguished public service to his alma mater, he has always led with a great deal of decency and civility. Indeed, his leadership has even fostered an era of unprecedented collaboration and cooperation between Oklahoma's two flagship universities, a move which has been productive and valuable for both OSU and the University of Oklahoma. Although Burns and Ann will be greatly missed when they step down next summer, their legacy will be permanently felt on campus, by the surrounding communities and the state as a whole. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-lucas-congratulates-osu-president-hargis-retirement | Congressman Lucas Congratulates OSU President Hargis on Retirement | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement on the announcement from Oklahoma State University President Burns Hargis on his retirement: For 13 years, Burns Hargis has truly exemplified what it means to be an OSU Cowboy and a believer in a brighter orange. Under the leadership of President Hargis, Oklahoma State University has expanded the possibilities and opportunities for hundreds of thousands of students- further cementing itself as a flagship university for higher education, said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). From his first day on the job, Burns steered OSU on an ambitious course, ushering in new investments and providing transformative resources not just for Oklahoma State University but for the entire state of Oklahoma. As an OSU alum, I couldn't be prouder to know that the plains of Oklahoma is now a destination for the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and doers. To President Burns Hargis and Ann, thank you for setting OSU up for success for the next 130 years. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-trump-administration-commitment-to-indian-country | Cole Applauds President Trumps Commitment to Indian Country | 2020-10-21 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the Trump Administration unveiled Putting America's First Peoples First, a policy plan outlining President Trump's enduring commitment to strengthening Indian Country. While Native Americans are often overlooked, President Trump has consistently made it a priority to deliver resources and advance real solutions to ensure safer, stronger and more prosperous tribal nations. That has included tackling the heartbreaking and rampant problem of missing and murdered indigenous women, not only through executive actions like Operation Lady Justice but recently by signing into law the Not Invisible Act and Savanna's Act. Moreover, amid the coronavirus crisis, the president recognized the need to get targeted relief to tribes and delivered record funding to aid them in this fight. Building on the significant steps and historic actions already taken during a productive first term, I am encouraged that President Trump has put forward a bold, inclusive and compassionate agenda for Indian Country during the next four years. Certainly, he is committed to upholding the federal government's trust and treaty obligations. I look forward to continuing to work with the president for the betterment of all Native American communities. Cole is a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-mourns-passing-of-ed-apple | Cole Mourns Passing of Ed Apple | 2020-10-21 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C.Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today mourned the loss of Ed Apple, a devoted and longtime Duncan community leader, who recently passed away. I was saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and a great Oklahoman, Ed Apple, said Cole. Ed was an amazing man a Marine fighter pilot, a successful businessman, an impressive civic and political leader and a loving husband and family man. I first met Ed in 1986 when I was Republican State Chairman, and he was running for State Representative. Most people thought a Republican couldn't win solidly Democratic Duncan in that era. But win he did. When he did, he became the only elected Republican south of Moore in the entire state of Oklahoma. Ed went on to have an amazing public career. After eight distinguished years in the state House, he nearly won a congressional seat in 1994. In 1995, newly elected Governor Frank Keating appointed Ed to the Corporation Commission. He went on to be elected in his own right. He was an outstanding public servant. I extend my sincerest sympathies to Ed's loving wife Betty and his wonderful children and grandchildren. Ed will be missed as a leader, a public servant, a friend to all who knew him and a devoted husband, father and grandfather who loved and cherished his family and friends above all else. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-eda-ardmore-investment | Cole Applauds EDAs Substantial Investment in Ardmore Area | 2020-10-20 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) applauded last week's announcement from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Authority (EDA) that a $1.25 million grant will be awarded to the Ardmore Development Authority, located in the Fourth District of Oklahoma. The funding will go toward water infrastructure upgrades needed to support business growth at the Ardmore Industrial AirPark. The EDA grant, to be located near a Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Opportunity Zone, will be matched with nearly $2 million in local funds and is expected to help create 1,525 jobs. I am delighted to hear that the Ardmore Development Authority will receive a substantial grant, said Congressman Tom Cole. These much-needed advancements to water infrastructure will not only drive business growth at the Ardmore Industrial AirPark, it will create numerous jobs in the surrounding area and its communities. I appreciate that the Trump Administration and the Economic Development Administration recognize Ardmore's potential as an Opportunity Zone and are actively making these crucial investments to revitalize the area. The Trump Administration understands that reliable and modern infrastructure is essential to business development and success, said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. This project will provide the vital, modern water infrastructure needed to spur trade-related business growth at Ardmore's Industrial AirPark, and its location near an Opportunity Zone will drive further investment into the region. EDA is pleased to support Ardmore's strategy to maximize the use of its Industrial AirPark and Opportunity Zone, said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. The project will increase Ardmore's access to international trade and help transform the area. I am proud of the $1.25 million EDA grant awarded to the Ardmore Development Authority which will be matched with almost $2 million in local funds, said Senator Jim Inhofe. This funding will go a long way t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-eda-investment-establish-business-technology-north-park | Lucas Applauds EDA Investment to Establish Business & Technology North Park in Weatherford | 2020-10-16 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.8 million grant to the City of Weatherford, Oklahoma to establish the Weatherford Business and Technology North Park: I'm thrilled the City of Weatherford is receiving this $2.8 million grant to fund the creation of the Weatherford Business and Technology North Park,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).At a time when job creation and economic growth are vital to our district's local communities, the Commerce Department's announcement is expected to create 300 jobs, substantially benefit our communities' businesses, and further fuel the economic engine of Weatherford and Custer County. I thank the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Administration for helping create more jobs and opportunities for my fellow Oklahomans. The EDA grant, to be matched with $716,250 in local investment, is expected to create 300 jobs. The Trump Administration is committed to not only retaining jobs in this country, but also to creating new opportunities for Americans,said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.The Weatherford Business and Technology North Park will provide manufacturing, energy, industrial, and commercial industries with the space they need to expand or locate in Weatherford, making the region's economy stronger and more resilient. This project is critical to addressing the lack of developed industrial land available for purchase and private investment in Weatherford,said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.The new Weatherford Business and Technology North Park will improve economic resilience and support long-term recovery efforts from natural disasters by providing opportunities for more business to invest and locate in the region. The $2.8 million grant awarded to Weatherford, Okla., by the EDA will help… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/a-realistic-path-forward | A Realistic Path Forward | 2020-10-15 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Looking back on the unprecedented events, hardships, challenges and losses we've navigated this year, certainly everyone would agree that 2020 has been a roller coaster experience none of us asked for or wanted. While it will take time to recover and find our way back to normal, I want to encourage you to remember that there is always reason to have hope in what the future can hold in America. During most of this year, people all over the world have been battling a ruthless invisible enemy. Indeed, no country has been spared from the wrath of the coronavirus pandemic. The damage has been felt far and wide, viciously claiming precious lives and destroying livelihoods without remorse. While navigating this global health emergency, there has also been a great deal of social unrest across the United States. Sadly, the unfortunate turn of events, during a contentious presidential election year, has only deepened existing divisions and heightened political polarization in our country. While it's easy to feel discouraged during this difficult season and a news cycle that seems to constantly deliver bad news, remember that this is a temporary season. History tells us time and again that Americans possess remarkable inner strength and determination. And we always come together to demonstrate our collective strength and unshakable resilience, even in the direst of circumstances and crises. As we strive to put these dark days behind us and move closer toward normalcy, I am very proud of the optimistic vision recently put forward by Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives. In our Commitment to America unveiled last month, we outlined numerous commonsense policies that will restore the American way of life, rebuild our great economy and renew the American Dream. Of course, we cannot get back to life as usual until we defeat the coronavirus. Fortunately, the United States is rapidly advancing, ahead of the rest of the world, toward a safe and effective vaccine. At the same time, we are making great strides in the real… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4341 | Mullin Statement on Sons Completion of Rehabilitation from Traumatic Brain Injury | 2020-10-09 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Statement on Son's Completion of Rehabilitation from Traumatic Brain Injury f t # e Washington, October 9, 2020 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after his son, Jim, completed his rehabilitation at the Centre for Neuro Skills in Bakersfield, California following a traumatic brain injury in January. Click here to watch Mullin's announcement video. I am excited to share my son Jim has been discharged from the Centre for Neuro Skills and we are heading home,Mullin said.Nine months ago, our family was rocked when Jim suffered a traumatic brain injury in a wrestling accident. In less than one day, Jim went from being an elite athlete and at a high school learning level and to a third-grade learning level, losing most of his motor skills, and suffering severe short-term memory loss. With God's grace, Jim has accomplished something in nine months that the specialist said could take two or three years. Thank you to everyone for the prayers, support, love and encouragement. We couldn't have done this without you. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/cannot-trust-communist-china | Cant Trust Communist China | 2020-10-08 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | No country has been spared from the repercussions of China's coronavirus missteps and cover-up that accelerated the current global pandemic. However, the coronavirus crisis is not the first time the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has demonstrated it is an untrustworthy competitor. For over four decades, the U.S. diplomatic strategy regarding China was based on the belief that by engaging the CCP, China would become more western-like and evolve into a responsible player in the community of nations. Instead, China views western values as an existential threat and actively works to weaken the United States' alliance system and reject key principles of international law. Unfortunately, China is moving ahead using its financial and military power to shape a world in which it is the leading global power. There is increasing recognition that relations with China are strategically, economically and ideologically competitive. Indeed, there are fewer areas of cooperation than most had thought, and many more areas of intense competition. During President Trump's first year in office, the U.S. officially declared China a major strategic competitor. In fact, the December 2017 National Security Strategy plainly described China as a revisionist power that seeks to displace the United States in the Indo-Pacific region, expand the reaches of its state-driven economic model, and reorder the region in its favor. There is no doubt that the CCP is now angling for greater power and recognition in the world order and with freedom-threatening motives, which makes it even more urgent for the United States to take serious and coordinated steps to counter this competitive, security and ideological threat. In response to this threat, I was very encouraged by the recommendations recently put forward by the China Task Force (CTF) to hold China accountable and strengthen America's national and economic security. Led by House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Michael McCaul, the select panel of lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives spent m… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-lucas-visits-vance-air-force-base | Congressman Lucas Visits Vance Air Force Base | 2020-10-08 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) visited Vance Air Force Base and discussed base operations and how COVID-19 has affected the base's missions with Vice Wing Commander Col. Jay Johnson and Chief Master Sergeant Kristy Earls. After the visit, Congressman Lucas made the following statement: Oklahoma has a rich military heritage and is home to thousands who have answered the call of service. I'm proud of the Airmen and women of Vance Air Force Base and am extremely honored to have the 71stFlying Training Wing call Enid, Oklahoma home,said Congressman Lucas.As the men and women of the United States Air Force know, Vance Air Force Base and the 71stFlying Training Wing have long upheld their duty to prepare our pilots for the missions ahead. I commend the leadership of Wing Commander Col. Timothy S. Danielson, Vice Wing Commander Col. Jay Johnson and countless others on base, and look forward to supporting Vance Air Force Base's mission for years to come. For more information on Vance Air Force Base and their mission, visithere. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-congratulates-national-blue-ribbon-schools-in-ok-04 | Cole Congratulates National Blue Ribbon Schools in OK-04 | 2020-10-07 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week congratulated two elementary schools located in the Fourth District of Oklahoma following their selection by the U.S. Department of Education as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2020. Frederick Elementary School (Frederick) and McKinley Elementary School (Norman) both received the recognition, which is awarded to schools for overall academic performance as well as successful efforts to close achievement gaps and facilitate exceptional classroom environments and learning. The awards ceremony will be held virtually on November 12 and 13, 2020. I am thrilled to congratulate the Fourth District's own Frederick Elementary School and McKinley Elementary School upon their distinguished recognition as National Blue Ribbon Schools, said Congressman Tom Cole. Clearly, a lot of hard work and creativity went into achieving this prestigious title. Focused on the needs and interests of their unique communities, their efforts both demonstrate the phenomenal dedication of educators and administrators, partnering with families, to ensure our kids have the best learning environments possible. Frederick Elementary is excited about the National Blue Ribbon 2020 Award, said Principals Kay Cabaniss and Janice Crume, Frederick Elementary School.It is great to be recognized for hard work.We are proud of our teachers, staff, students and parents who always believe all children can learn. The McKinley Elementary Staff is thrilled to have been selected as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2020, said Principal Carol Emerson, McKinley Elementary School. I am very proud of our students and staff for their hard work and commitment to excellence! We feel we accomplish great things due to the support we receive from our supportive parents and community! To learn more about the individual efforts and achievements of these Fourth District schools, visit their Blue Ribbon profiles. Frederick Elementary School's profile is available here, and McKinley Elementary School's profile is available h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/need-for-additional-relief | The Need for Additional Relief | 2020-10-05 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Although there is broad bipartisan agreement in Congress that additional coronavirus relief is needed, I regret that the status of delivering relief hasn't changed a lot since May. It's even more disappointing since lawmakers already agree on how to approach several aspects of needed relief. As you might remember back in mid-May, the U.S. House of Representatives considered legislation deceptively packaged and promoted by Democrats as coronavirus relief. While there may have been a few worthy provisions, those items were greatly overshadowed by the unrelated-to-coronavirus policies stuffed into the more than $3 trillion package. Sadly, the substance of Speaker Nancy Pelosi's so-called HEROES Act looked more like using a crisis to advance a liberal wish list than a serious desire to help struggling Americans. That was made even more obvious by the fact that the legislation was crafted behind closed doors and without any Republican input whatsoever. Not surprisingly, that bill was never taken up by the Republican-led Senate or signed into law by President Donald Trump. Since then, there have been scattered conversations between Speaker Pelosi and Trump Administration leaders that, at times, seemed hopeful. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi has thus far refused to budge on both the total cost of the next relief package as well as her belief that we have to agree on everything before we can agree on anything. By contrast, the Trump Administration has shown a lot more willingness to negotiate something real. In fact, the president said himself that he would be willing to sign a bill totaling $1.5 trillion, if it didn't have unrelated policies attached to it. Meanwhile, although many Democrats like to point fingers at the Senate for not bringing up a coronavirus relief bill of any kind, it's worth noting that it was Senate Democrats who recently blocked consideration of one. Considering that both chambers managed to deliver four substantial and bipartisan relief packages to the American people earlier this year, the months… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-china-task-force-report | Cole Applauds China Task Force Report | 2020-10-02 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) issued the following statement after members of the China Task Force (CTF) this week published a report detailing their work and making more than 400 policy recommendations to protect U.S. interests against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The coronavirus pandemic isn't the first time the Chinese Communist Party has shown it cannot be trusted as a global partner. However, the consequences of their behavior and mishandling of the crisis were on a disastrous new level. Because of their dishonesty, irresponsibility and lack of transparency with what they knew and when, the whole world needlessly suffered and is still suffering. More than a million precious lives have been lost to date, and many economies are barely hanging on. There is no doubt that China is angling for greater power and recognition in the world order, which makes it even more urgent for the United States to take serious and coordinated steps to counter China's malign behavior. I am encouraged by the recommendations put forward by the China Task Force to keep China accountable and strengthen America's national and economic security against the very real threat posed by the communist regime. About the China Task Force The China Task Force was initially set up to be a bipartisan committee, but House Democratic leaders chose not to participate. The Task Force was led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Michael McCaul and included 14 other members of Congress representing 11 House committees. Over the course of its work, the Task Force engaged with more than 130 leaders to provide insights and solutions for its comprehensive action plan. The CTF Report includes 82 key findings and more than 400 recommendations, many of which reflect bipartisan legislation already introduced or passed in the House or Senate. Read the report here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/october-2-2020 | Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat | 2020-10-02 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | 100 E. 13th St Suite 213 Ada, OK 74820 Phone: (580)436-5375 Fax: (580)436-5451 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4334 | Mullin Opposes Democrats Socialist Wish List 2.0 | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after the House passed the H.R. 925, the Heroes Act 2.0. Mullin was not present for the vote due to supporting his son's ongoing rehabilitation from a wrestling injury but would have voted no on the bill. Once again, Speaker Pelosi has put a bill on the floor that is nothing but a socialist wish list full of provisions that don't have anything to do with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, Mullin said. We have already spent trillions of dollars in relief funding which has yet to be fully used. Spending another $2.2 trillion, without fully utilizing what has already been appropriated, is reckless. We should be focused on bringing relief to families who need it instead of using this crisis to push a political agenda. H.R. 925 is a recycled version of Pelosi's bill which passed the House in May. It includes: Defunding the police by removing $600 million from the original Heroes Act intended for the COPS Hiring program and state, local, and Tribal law enforcement assistance. Extending the $600 per week UI supplement through Jan. 31, 2021, plus a transition period to allow the supplement to continue through March 31, 2021 for those who have not exhausted their benefits, meaning businesses will be competing with unemployment benefits for workers through spring of 2021. Allowing illegal immigrants to receive direct stimulus payments. Removing safeguards in the Paycheck Protection Program that would prevent taxpayer money from bailing out Planned Parenthood. Providing deferred action and work authorization during the emergency declaration and for 90 days after for illegal aliens working in jobs that could be held by out of work Americans. Federalizing elections, with only five weeks until election day, by including strict, impossible to achieve mandates on how states must run their elections, including early voting, no ID requirement for in-person voting, same-day registration, and no excuse vote by mail without safeguards or restrictions on … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-october-2020 | Books I'm Reading: October 2020 | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As an eternal learner, I am constantly reading. I invite you each month to follow along with what I'm currently reading or check back periodically for hand-picked selections of my favorites. Here's what I'm reading this month: On My Desk FDRby Jean Edward Smith Smith's splendid biography of FDR is the best one volume study of America's greatest 20th century president. It is deeply researched, elegantly written, balanced in its approach and insightful in its judgments of the man and his era. -TC | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-opposes-partisan-heroes-act-2-0 | Cole Opposes Speaker Pelosis HEROES Act 2.0 | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after he voted against the Senate Amendments to H.R. 925, a coronavirus relief bill written solely by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats. Unfortunately, not a lot has changed since May, when Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats also peddled legislation focused more on securing radical policy items than delivering needed coronavirus relief. Crafted behind closed doors and without any Republican input whatsoever, again, their partisan HEROES Act 2.0' is also destined for nowhere. It will not pass the Republican-led Senate, and it will not be signed into law by President Trump. That is an unfair result for the American people, who are struggling and desperately need additional relief. They have for months. The endless stalling and ongoing refusal of Speaker Pelosi to seriously negotiate something real with the Trump Administration is particularly disappointing when so many areas of bipartisan agreement already exist. Indeed, there are plenty of items that could pass both chambers separately and immediately, including a simple extension of the Paycheck Protection Program for struggling small businesses and their workers. Though Speaker Pelosi thinks we have to agree on everything before we can agree on anything, the fact is that we could be getting relief out the door right now. While we work out our difference on other matters, that's exactly what we should be doing. During rule debate for the legislation on the House floor yesterday, Cole made remarks in opposition. Transcript is available here and video here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-lucas-joins-johnson-conaway-introducing-cattle-reform-legislation | Congressman Lucas Joins Johnson & Conaway in Introducing Cattle Reform Legislation | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) joined Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) and House Committee on Agriculture Ranking Member Mike Conaway (TX-11) in introducing thePrice Reform in Cattle Economies(PRICE)Act, a bill to increase transparency in the cattle market, improve risk management, and support new and expanding meat processors. On July 22, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the Box Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report', which identified a number of systemic issues in the cattle market. Lucas joined Johnson and Conaway in introducing thePRICE Actin response to the findings of this report. From natural disasters to the fire in Holcomb, Kansas to the current health pandemic gripping our nation, cattle producers across our country have faced significant disruption. My chief concern is the well-being of my neighbors and the cattlemen and women who have been working diligently during these troubling times to continue to provide high-quality beef for the American consumer,said Congressman Lucas.Today, I'm proud to join Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) in introducing the PRICE Act, helping eliminate regulatory barriers for cattle ranchers and increasing the resources for these hard-working men and women. As we continue to weather economic and health conditions of the pandemic, Congress and USDA must provide solutions to ease the burdens currently felt by cattle ranchers. The cattle market faced extreme volatility following the Tyson Holcomb plant fire in 2019 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. ThePRICE Actprovides greater price reporting and transparency, comprehensive risk management solutions, bolsters small processor and producer-owned cooperative processing opportunities, and updates the Packer and Stockyards Act to create a cattle contract library. Cattle country is hurting and has not fully recovered,said Johnson.USDA laid out several areas where Congress can implement real solutions to improve the market thePRICE Actis the an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-instead-passing-partisan-heroes-act-20-congress-should-provide-real-help | Lucas: Instead of Passing Partisan Heroes Act 2.0, Congress Should Provide Real Help | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 925, the Heroes Act 2.0: At a time when 837,000 more Americans are filing for unemployment and small businesses are closing on Main Street, House Democrats are more focused on passing a messaging bill rather than a bipartisan bill that will actually provide relief to Americans and families across the nation. The bill passed by House Democrats tonight isn't realistic or responsible in the slightest, said Congressman Frank Lucas. Instead of drafting a bill solely by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congress should work together, as a bipartisan institution, with the Administration to provide real help for Oklahomans and millions more across America. For more information on the Heroes Act 2.0, see information from the House Committee on Appropriations and the House Committee on Education & Labor. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/china-task-force-report-outlines-strategies-address-growing-threat-chinese | China Task Force Report Outlines Strategies to Address Growing Threat from Chinese Communist Party | 2020-09-30 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, the China Task Force released adetailed policy blueprintto counter the growing global threat of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The China Task Force was comprised of 15 members representing 11 committees in the U.S. House of Representatives, including House Science, Space, and Technology Committee membersRep. Anthony Gonzalez(R-OH) andRep. Michael Waltz(R-FL). The Task Force conducted a thorough analysis of the CCP's activities in six key areas: ideological competition, supply chain security, national security, technology, economics and energy, and competitiveness. Many recommendations, particularly on technology and competitiveness, represent priorities and legislation from Science Committee Republicans. Lucas: Ranking Member Frank Lucas praised the report and its recommendations, which are largely bipartisan. The threat we face from the Chinese Communist Party is one of our greatest generational challenges. The decisions we make now will have a lasting impact for decades to come,Lucassaid. The CCP intends to surpass us as the frontrunner in scientific knowledge and technological development, and they're committing extensive resources to crucial technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum information sciences, critical mineral development, and advanced manufacturing. Our continued global competitiveness requires us to invest in next-generation technologies and to protect our research from theft. I've introduced comprehensive legislation to double U.S. funding for basic research, improve our research infrastructure, and focus our efforts on the most important industries of the future. I'm glad that the Task Force recommended passing this billH.R. 5685, the bipartisan Securing American Leadership in Science and Technology Act. I especially want to thank Representative Anthony Gonzalez and Representative Michael Waltz for their contributions to this report. They've both done exceptional work to support American research and development, and to position our country t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-us-department-commerce-2-million-investment-boost-business-growth | Lucas Applauds U.S. Department of Commerce $2 Million Investment to Boost Business Growth in Woodward | 2020-09-30 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2 million grant to the City of Woodward, Oklahoma to make building renovations at the Woodward Industrial Airpark: The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting locally-driven strategies that strengthen regional economies, create job growth, and increase business development throughout our local communities,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). I thank Secretary Wilbur Ross and the EDA for their $2 million investment to help support Woodward's businesses following the 2018 fires. Western Oklahoma is no stranger to fires and other natural disasters, and today's investment will help Woodward's businesses expand and continue to rebuild. The EDA grant will be matched with more than $1.2 million in local investment. The Trump Administration understands that reliable and modern facilities are essential to business development and success,saidSecretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.This project will provide necessary building improvements to spur business growth at Woodward's Industrial AirPark to make the region's economy more resilient in the face of future natural disasters. The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support Woodward's strategy to maximize use of its Industrial AirPark,saidDana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.This project will open a 124,000 square foot industrial facility within the AirPark to new and expanding companies, creating economic opportunities for Woodward and mitigating regional impacts of the 2018 wildfires. This $2 million EDA grant awarded to the city of Woodward is welcome news,said Senator Jim Inhofe. This funding will allow for needed building renovations at the Woodward Industrial Airpark. We know that airports are economic hubs for communities, an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4332 | House Passes Mullin Bill to Break Down Health Data Barriers for Tribes | 2020-09-29 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | House Passes Mullin Bill to Break Down Health Data Barriers for Tribes f t # e Washington, September 29, 2020 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 7948, the Tribal Health Data Improvement Act, by voice vote. The bill would reaffirm Tribal public health authorities are entitled to access public health data. Our sovereign Tribal Nations and Tribal Epidemiology Centers were always supposed to have equal access to public health data that states, counties, and cities have. But for years, many Tribes have faced numerous challenges while trying to access this public health data, Mullin said. Now more than ever, Tribes need access to this data in order to make decisions for their communities and the Tribal Health Data Improvement Act makes that happen. I am glad this bill passed the full House today and I encourage the Senate to take it up quickly so Tribes don't have to wait any longer for the data they need. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/sustaining-small-businesses | Sustaining Small Businesses | 2020-09-29 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Throughout most of this year, the coronavirus pandemic has greatly disrupted our lives and dealt harsh hits to our economy out of nowhere. Sadly, some of the most ruthless economic hits have been felt by America's small businesses. While the federal government has done a lot already to help save and sustain struggling small businesses and their workers, there is more that could be done if Speaker Nancy Pelosi would allow the U.S. House of Representatives to vote on a simple and commonsense piece of legislation related to the Paycheck Protection Program. For background, the Trump Administration and Congress worked together earlier this year to create and provide initial funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) through passage of the CARES Act. As you might remember, once the PPP opened to potential applicants, it was so popular and successful that Congress replenished funding for the program just a few weeks later back in April. Since then, the PPP has saved approximately 51 million American jobs across the country. In Oklahoma alone, the PPP has directly helped more than 66,000 businesses stay afloat and retain their dedicated employees. While funding that Congress provided specifically for the PPP is not yet used up, the program unfortunately became closed to new applications on August 8 nearly two months ago. In fact, there is roughly $135 billion of unspent funds that could be helping small businesses if the program were reopened. Indeed, as the pandemic continues, pausing business as usual as we race toward a vaccine and cure, it is absolutely in our country's best interest to keep existing resources available to our small business job creators. As the lifeblood of our economy, small businesses are key in our nation's economic recovery in the short-term and the long-term. Though a simple extension of the PPP shouldn't be a point of contention, Speaker Pelosi has decided to make it one. Amid weeks of stalling meaningful negotiation with the Trump Administration for needed additional coronavirus relie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4331 | Mullin Signs Pledge to Stand with Police | 2020-09-28 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Signs Pledge to Stand with Police f t # e Washington, September 28, 2020 Today, Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) signed Heritage Action's Police Pledge to show his unwavering support for law enforcement officers and his opposition to any effort to defund the police. The men and women of our law enforcement put their lives on the line each day to keep their communities safe and they deserve our full support, Mullin said. We are a nation of laws and the laws must be enforced. Defunding the police is not a serious answer to the issues our country is facing and will only lead to anarchy. I am proud to sign this pledge and stand with our nation's brave law enforcement officers. More information on the pledge can be found here. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/news-stories/oklahoman-federal-grant-fund-veterans-cemetery-ardmore | The Oklahoman: Federal grant to fund veterans cemetery in Ardmore | 2020-09-28 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | The Oklahoman - Chris Casteel The state of Oklahoma has won a $7.3 million grant to build a veterans cemetery in Ardmore that can provide service for about 25,571 veterans and their eligible family members. The brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon serve as the final resting place for our veteran heroes, said U.S. Rep. Tom Cole, R-Moore, who credited Ardmore and state officials for helping to secure the grant. The money will come from the National Cemetery Administration, which is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, but the cemetery will be part of the Oklahoma Veterans Department. There are two national veterans cemeteries in Oklahoma, in Fort Sill and Fort Gibson. There are also state veterans cemeteries in Oklahoma City, Ponca City and Seminole, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Last year, the federal department cleared the first phase of a Cherokee Nation Veterans Cemetery. Ardmore, a city of 25,000 about 90 miles south of Oklahoma City, is also home to a state veterans center. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs prides itself in providing every service we can to our nation's heroes, said Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland. The construction of this cemetery is another way for us to honor these Veterans and their service to our great country. We look forward to being able to provide a final resting place that represents the sacrifice these soldiers made and honor the public service of these great Veterans. The grant will pay for 1,104 pre-placed crypts, 434 cremains gravesites, 600 niches for cremation urns, a main entrance, an administration building, a maintenance facility, roads, landscaping and supporting infrastructure on approximately 12 acres of land, according to the National Cemetery Administration. It's an honor to partner with the Oklahoma to provide the Veterans in the Ardmore area a final resting place that is befitting their service and sacri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-statement-supporting-president-trump-s-executive-order-protecting | Lucas Statement Supporting President Trumps Executive Order Protecting Americans with Pre-Existing Conditions & Ending Surprise Billing | 2020-09-28 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after President Trump, on Thursday, September 24, 2020, signed anExecutive Order on An America-First Healthcare Plan, aimed at protecting patients with pre-existing conditions and putting an end to surprise medical billing: As a native to rural Oklahoma, challenges with access and affordable healthcare services often determine whether Oklahomans are able to remain in the communities they call home,said Congressman Lucas.I applaud the administration's recent health care announcement, theAmerica First Health Plan, which puts patients first by bringing efficient and quality healthcare to all Americans. The plan protects patients with pre-existing conditions, lowers health care costs for seniors, and protects patients against disastrous and unfair surprise medical billing. Lucas continued,This announcement is an important step in the right direction in healthcare reform. Moving forward, Congress must continue to work together and find commonsense solutions to our challenges affecting Oklahomans, and those throughout the country. Background: President Trump'sExecutive Order on An America-First Healthcare Planhelps improve care for the American people, especially the most vulnerable; lowers healthcare costs for Americans; and continues the President's plan to provide Americans with more healthcare options to put patients and doctors back in control. Under the Executive Order, President Trump has declared it policy of the Federal Government to: - Protect individuals with pre-existing conditions and ensure they have access to care they can afford, - End surprise billing and send prescription drug discount cards to over 33 million seniors, - Allow the import of prescription drugs from Canada and allow low-income Americans to purchase affordable insulin and Epi-Pens at nearly 10,000 Federal clinic locations, - Improve access to direct primary care arrangements that cut out the middleman and cut bure… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-on-nomination-amy-coney-barrett | Cole Statement on Nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court | 2020-09-26 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Moore, OK Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States. In nominating Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court, President Donald Trump is fulfilling his constitutional obligation, and he is right to do so, said Cole. The president has absolutely made an exceptional choice with this nomination. Indeed, Judge Barrett is well qualified to serve for her educational and career credentials alone. But most important of all, she deeply respects the United States Constitution and has devoted her life to defending it. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4330 | Toomey, Manchin, Rouda, and Mullin Team Up to Help Overdose Victims | 2020-09-25 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and U.S. Representatives Harley Rouda (D-Calif. 48th) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla. 2nd) are working together to provide greater assistance to individuals who have struggled with opioid misuse and abuse. The Improving Medicaid Programs' Response to Overdose Victims and Enhancing (IMPROVE) Addiction Care Act would require state Medicaid programs to use jointly-funded drug utilization review programs to increase access to treatment and boost safeguards for those on Medicaid who have experienced a non-fatal, opioid-related overdose. The legislation would close a dangerous information gap that keeps prescribers uninformed about a patient who overdoses. In 2018, Congress passed theSUPPORT for Patients and Communities Actresulting in Medicare Part D plan sponsors being notified of individuals with a history of opioid-related overdoseno notification or case management was previously required solely based on previous non-fatal overdose occurrence, despite studies linking previous non-fatal overdoses to subsequent fatal overdoses. No corner of Pennsylvania has been spared from the opioid epidemic,said Senator Toomey. Physicians need to know if they've prescribed a lethal dose of opioids to a patient. The IMPROVE Addiction Care Act will ultimately promote better prescribing habits and help those battling addiction get the care they clearly need. I thank Senator Manchin and Representatives Rouda and Mullin for working with me on this bipartisan bill, and I hope we are able to get this to the president's desk before the end of the year. Every West Virginian has experienced the impacts of the opioid epidemic on our family, friends, and neighbors. Today I joined my bipartisan, bicameral colleagues in introducing theIMPROVE Addiction Care Actto strengthen Drug Utilization Review programs across the nation to prevent opioid overdoses by helping to better connect Medicaid patients to treatment options. Americans who have overdosed need our help getting back on… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-signs-discharge-petition-to-allow-ppp-extension-vote | Cole Signs Discharge Petition to Allow Vote on PPP Extension | 2020-09-25 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today signed a discharge petition led by Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) calling for a vote on H.R. 8265, to extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) through the end of the year and release roughly $135 billion of unspent funds provided by Congress for the program. Authored by House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot (OH-01), H.R. 8265 would also modify the application process and enable certain eligible businesses to apply for a second forgivable loan. It is disappointing that Republicans must resort to a discharge petition to pressure Speaker Pelosi to free up money already provided and intended to aid small businesses struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic, said Cole. Since it was created, the Paycheck Protection Program has helped millions of small businesses keep their doors open and their workers employed. As the race for a vaccine continues in order to restore our way of life, Congress should ensure vital and existing PPP aid remains available. Indeed, it is simply commonsense to renew the program so that it can help even more American job creators weather the storm. This is not and should not be a controversial or partisan issue. It is a matter of protecting American livelihoods that remain at risk because of a deadly virus that originated in China. I urge Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats to allow a vote on this simple PPP extension legislation. For the discharge petition to allow consideration of and a vote on the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, it must receive 218 signatures from lawmakers. Signatures can be collected on a rolling basis throughout this Congress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/september-25-2020 | Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat | 2020-09-25 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | September 25, 2020 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/news-stories/kfor-oklahoma-receives-grant-create-state-veterans-cemetery | KFOR: Oklahoma receives grant to create state veterans cemetery | 2020-09-25 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | KFOR - K. Querry ARDMORE, Okla. (KFOR) Veterans in Oklahoma will soon be able to be laid to rest in a State Veterans Cemetery after a recent announcement by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration awarded a $7,355,463 grant to the state of Oklahoma to establish a State Veterans Cemetery. Officials say the cemetery will be located in Ardmore. The City of Ardmore is honored to be chosen as the site for the State Veterans Cemetery,said Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn.As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I take great pride in working with federal, state and local officials to help make this project a reality. The City appreciates the efforts of the elected officials and citizen groups working together for several years to get to this day. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs prides itself in providing every service we can to our nation's heroes,said Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland.The construction of this cemetery is another way for us to honor these Veterans and their service to our great country. We look forward to being able to provide a final resting place that represents the sacrifice these soldiers made and honor the public service of these great Veterans. The grant will fund the construction of 1,104 pre-placed crypts, 434 cremains gravesites, 600 columbarium niches, a main entrance, an administration building, a maintenance facility, road, landscaping and a memorial walkway on 12 acres of land. Officials say the cemetery will provide service for approximately 25,571 veterans and their eligible family members. I am very encouraged to learn that Oklahoma is receiving support to construct a cemetery that brings lasting and well-deserved honor to our heroic veterans,said Congressman Tom Cole.The brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon serve as the final resting place for our veteran heroes. I want to recognize the dedic… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-signs-discharge-petition-house-revive-paycheck-protection-program | Lucas Signs Discharge Petition in House to Revive Paycheck Protection Program | 2020-09-25 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) joined Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) and House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (OH-01) in signing Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler's (WA-03)discharge petitionin the U.S. House of Representatives to force a vote to extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a lifeline for small businesses in Oklahoma's Third District and across the country. Across Oklahoma, small businesses are on the brink of closure. Through no fault of their own, Main Street businesses throughout the Third District have had to scale back business hours and lay off dedicated employees just to stay afloat during the pandemic,said Congressman Lucas.One critical program that has helped more than 66,000 Oklahoma small businesses is the Paycheck Protection Program. Sadly, last month, this vital program expired with $135 billion left unspent, leaving many small businesses without a lifeline to weather the pandemic's economic conditions. While Speaker Pelosi has failed to address this lapse and has called targeted legislation on unemployment benefits and the Paycheck Protection Program piecemeal', my House Republican colleagues and I are working to force a vote to bring this common-sense legislation up on the House Floor. I thank my colleague, Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler, for leading this discharge petition to extend the Paycheck Protection Program, and I hope this bill can see a vote on the House Floor so that Oklahoman businesses and employees can continue to receive the help they need. The discharge petition, should it garner the required 218 signatures from the U.S. House of Representatives, will then allow the House tobring to the floor a bill, authored by House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Rep. Steve Chabot (OH-01), to distribute the remaining nearly$135 billion in current PPP fundssitting idle after the program's August 8 expiration. Speaker Nancy Pelosi hasrejectedcalls for passing a temporary extension of unemployment ben… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-signs-pledge-stand-our-police | Lucas Signs Pledge to Stand With Our Police | 2020-09-25 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. This week, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) signed Heritage Action'sPolice Pledge, a pledge to show his unwavering support for our nation's law enforcement officers and commitment to opposing any legislative efforts to defund the police. After signing the pledge, Congressman Lucas issued the following statement: Oklahoma's law enforcement officers, and hundreds of thousands more across the United States, risk their lives every single day to ensure the freedoms and property of every single individual are protected. Our communities are forever indebted to the men and women of America's police departments who take an oath to uphold the law and carry out their responsibility to serve and protect,said Congressman Lucas.We need our law enforcement, which is why I oppose any legislative attempt to Defund the Police' and, why I'll always stand with the men and women in blue who protect our communities. The fullpledgecan be found below:A lawful societyfree from mob rule and violent insurrectionis not possible without Law Enforcement.Police Officers have chosen a noble profession. They dedicate their lives to upholding the law and protecting the sacred rights of their fellow citizens. As a profession, they deserve support and respect.I stand with America's Police and pledge to oppose any bill, resolution, or movement to Defund the Police. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4329 | Mullin Opposes Democrats Energy Package | 2020-09-24 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Opposes Democrats' Energy Package f t # e Washington, September 24, 2020 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement after the House passed the Democrats' partisan energy package. Mullin was not present for the vote due to supporting his son's ongoing rehabilitation from a wrestling injury but would have voted no on the bill. We truly need an all-of-the-above energy strategy in order to keep the lights on at a price American families can afford. This legislation does the exact opposite, Mullin said. With a total price tag of more than $135 billion and heavy-handed government regulations, the Democrats' energy package is another step towards socialism. It leaves rural communities in the dust by prioritizing cities and would jeopardize all the progress our country has made in becoming energy independent. It's unfortunate they took a bipartisan bill to improve renewable energy storage in rural areas and packed it full of radical energy priorities that will result in unreliable, expensive energy for consumers. H.R. 4447 was initially introduced by Mullin and passed unanimously out of the Energy and Commerce Committee earlier this month. Before bringing it to the House floor for a vote, Democratic Leadership added nearly 900 pages worth of unrelated provisions to the bill, creating a partisan energy package that will never become law. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/state-veterans-cemetery-to-be-established-ardmore | State Veterans Cemetery to be Established in Ardmore | 2020-09-24 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration (NCA) awarded a $7,355,463 grant to the state of Oklahoma for the establishment of a State Veterans Cemetery. The cemetery will be located in Ardmore, which is in the Fourth District of Oklahoma. I am very encouraged to learn that Oklahoma is receiving support to construct a cemetery that brings lasting and well-deserved honor to our heroic veterans, said Congressman Tom Cole. The brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon serve as the final resting place for our veteran heroes. I want to recognize the dedicated efforts and attention of numerous individuals in the Ardmore community, who over many years advocated for this important project. Thank you to Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn, State Senator Frank Simpson, State Representative Tommy Hardin as well as former Representative Pat Ownbey and Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland, Ardmore Veterans Center Administrator Marsha Huddleston and Rear Admiral Wesley Hull for their tireless work and commitment to making this happen. The City of Ardmore is honored to be chosen as the site for the State Veterans Cemetery, said Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn. As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I take great pride in working with federal, state and local officials to help make this project a reality. The City appreciates the efforts of the elected officials and citizen groups working together for several years to get to this day". I am very excited that Oklahoma has received this wonderful gift that will help construct the first State Veterans Cemetery to be operated by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, said Oklahoma State Senator Frank Simpson. We will be able to provide our state's veterans with a beautiful final resting place that honors their service and their sacrifice to our great nation. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-on-house-passage-hr-8337 | Cole Statement on House Passage of H.R. 8337 | 2020-09-22 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 8337, a short-term continuing resolution to fund the federal government through December 11, 2020. Cole supported the legislation to prevent a government shutdown. While a short-term measure to keep the government funded is not ideal, it's far better than the alternative. In the days ahead, I remain hopeful that full-year funding can be negotiated and agreed to in a bipartisan way for the upcoming fiscal year. But in the interim, I am grateful that both sides could ultimately come to the table to prevent a government shutdown, ensuring vital programs and services continue for millions of Americans while also delivering needed support for our struggling farmers and ranchers and replenishing aid to continue nutritious meals for low-income children. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/promising-steps-toward-peace | Promising Steps Toward Peace | 2020-09-22 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | With numerous topics dominating the news cycle this year, I wanted to make sure you didn't miss an historic event that took place last week related to peace and security in the Middle East. While the area is often known for its unrest, the Trump Administration has never given up on fostering peace and bringing greater stability to the region. Indeed, President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have made it a priority to encourage the normalization of nation-to-nation relationships involving Israel, one of our greatest allies and most faithful friends. The historic signing of the Abraham Accords last week symbolized the culmination of these diplomatic efforts and marked a major step toward lasting peace. For background, Israel was first established as an independent state on May 14, 1948, upon the declaration of the Jewish People's Council and following years of land disputes. About a year later, the United Nations officially recognized Israel's existence through admittance into its organization. However, nearly 75 years since Israel first declared its independence, there are still 29 countries around the world, including several of its Arab and Muslim neighbors, that refuse to acknowledge Israel's right to exist. Aside from peace treaties signed with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994, Israel has historically lacked or had strained diplomatic relations with several of its neighbors. That status changed last week. Before Israel opened a diplomatic office in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2015, the two countries didn't have a workable relationship to speak of. Five years later and following peace talks initiated and facilitated by the Trump Administration, Israel agreed to suspend the annexation of the West Bank, a territory in the region that has long been a point of contention. Israel's show of good faith and willingness to compromise on that matter marked a significant step toward normalizing its relations with the UAE. As a result, the two countries formally reached a peace agreement in principl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-votes-fund-government-provide-ccc-funds | Lucas Votes to Fund Government, Provide CCC Funds | 2020-09-22 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 8337- the Continuing Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2021 and Other Extensions Act. Lucas supported the continuing resolution, which extends government funding through December 11, 2020. One of the most fundamental duties of Congress is to fund the government and keep it open and operational. That duty becomes even more essential as Congress, the Trump Administration, and the American people grapple with the unprecedented challenges brought by the coronavirus pandemic,said Congressman Lucas.The measure passed by the House not only keeps the government's lights on, but it also keeps critical programs funded and operational, including vital Farm Bill programs providing ongoing COVID-19 relief to America's farmers and ranchers. Lucas continued,While I support the legislation passed by the House, Congress must not continue its legacy of passing continuing resolutions after continuing resolutions. For years, Washington has relied on broken budgets and spending practices that have shown to be detrimental to governmental operations. Congress cannot continue to kick the can down the road. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4321 | Mullin Applauds Passage of Bills to Address Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women | 2020-09-21 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) today applauded the passage of two bills he cosponsored to help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women. S. 227, Savanna's Act, and S. 982, the Not Invisible Act, both passed the House unanimously and now head to President Trump's desk. The silent crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women is wreaking havoc on our families and our communities,said Mullin.Our priority must be to protect native women and children and all parties have to work together to end this epidemic of violence. Savanna's Act and the Not Invisible Act give our law enforcement officers the tools they need to address the crisis and will help prevent our sisters from becoming a statistic. I was proud to cosponsor both of these bills and I look forward to seeing President Trump sign them into law soon. S. 227, Savanna's Act, would require the Department of Justice to make standardized law enforcement and justice protocols that serve as guidelines for law enforcement agencies with regard to missing and murdered Native Americans, develop protocols to investigate those cases, meet certain consultation requirements, and provide Tribes and law enforcement agencies with training and technical assistance to develop and implement the law enforcement and justice protocols. S. 982, the Not Invisible Act, would establish an advisory committee on violent crime made up of law enforcement, Tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers, and survivors to make recommendations to the Department of Interior and Department of Justice and establish best practices for law enforcement on combatting the epidemic of missing persons, murder, and trafficking of Native Americans and Alaska Natives. Additionally, this legislation will ensure that the unique challenges faced by Tribal communities are considered when combatting crime, violence, and human trafficking. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-on-passing-of-ruth-bader-ginsburg | Cole Statement on Passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg | 2020-09-18 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after learning about the passing of Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who served on the Supreme Court of the United States for 27 years. America has lost a remarkable icon and tenacious legal mind with the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg devoted her life's work to study and understanding of the law, and she fought for what she believed was right and just. Whether you agreed with her legal opinions or not, she was admired across the political divide. My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with Justice Ginsburg's family, friends and many loved ones as they mourn this heavy and difficult loss. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-statement-passing-supreme-court-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg | Lucas Statement on Passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg | 2020-09-18 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Republican | Senate | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement on the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has served on the United States Supreme Court since August 10, 1993. I am saddened tonight to learn of the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. While our ideology often differed, Justice Ginsburg was a trailblazer for women in law, a devoted advocate of equality and civil rights, and a jurist of historic stature. During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with the family Justice Ginsburg and her colleagues of the United States Supreme Court. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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