Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
- url
- Link to the original release on the member's official site
- text
- Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
- has_text
- 1 if body text was successfully extracted
- date_source
- How the publication date was determined
- bioguide_id
- Bioguide ID of the member
105 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "AL" and year = 2015 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-tornado-damage-southwest-birmingham | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement on Tornado Damage in Southwest Birmingham | 2015-12-26 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released the following statement on the heavy storms and tornadoes that affected the Southwest Birmingham area on Christmas Day. My heart is with those impacted by the tornado that swept across parts of Southwest Birmingham on Christmas Day. We have been through similar tragedies together, and we know what is possible when communities come together in times of need. I have been in touch with local officials throughout the affected area, and my staff is working with local and state officials to help assess the extent of the damage and to assist with any recovery efforts. I am especially thankful for the work that Hopewell Baptist Church, Pastor E. E. Rodgers, Commissioner Sandra Little Brown and countless others have done to provide immediate assistance to those in need. "My office and I are in contact with the Governor's office and the State EMA to monitor the situation. We are working with local, state, and federal officials to bring assistance to those affected." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-passage-omnibus | Rep. Sewell Votes for the Passage of the Omnibus | 2015-12-18 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted for the passage of the Omnibus Appropriations bill: After a thoughtful and thorough review, I have decided to vote in favor of the Omnibus Appropriations bill. I have reservations about several provisions in the bill, but ultimately I believe that the good contained in this bill outweighs the bad. My vote was cast in favor of keeping the government operating and to continue to make critical investments agency programs that benefit all Americans. I also firmly believe that we cannot afford another shutdown and this bill provides the Federal Government with funding through September 30, 2016. The omnibus provides much needed increases for a broad range of education programs including Head Start, Title I grants, aid to HBCUs, the TRIO and GEAR UP programs, and rural education. Providing the resources low-income families need to increase their academic success is one of my highest priorities, and this legislation is a first step in the right direction. Furthermore, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and other minority serving institutions are set to receive an additional $40 million in funding. HBCUs have created and fostered a generation of African-American professionals, and still play a vital role in educating our youth. My district is home to some of the most prominent HBCUs in the Country, and as a Vice Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus, securing adequate funding for these institutions is critically important to me. I am also pleased that this bill provides funding through the Department of the Interior that will be used to preserve historic civil sites. The struggle for civil and voting rights is an integral part of American history. Our district is known as the civil rights district, and we have the potential to benefit from this competitive grant process. I fought to secure two amendments that made this funding possible in order to preserve important civil rights sites for future generations. The bill includes many increases in program… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-against-so-called-protecting-americans-tax-hikes-act | Rep. Sewell Votes Against the So-Called Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 | 2015-12-17 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted against the so-called Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015, saying the massive tax bill would increase the federal deficit by $622 billion over the next 10 years. While I support a strong tax policy that provides certainty to individuals and American businesses, the permanency of many of these provisions without any offsets to fund their costs is of deep concern. This legislation includes several provisions that I strongly support like the earned income tax credit, the child tax credit, and the American opportunity tax credit. The package also provides a two-year moratorium on the medical device tax and extends the work opportunity tax credit to help employers that hire Americans who have faced significant barriers to employment. However, I am deeply concerned that passing this tax extenders package without offsetting its cost would greatly undermine our ability to make key discretionary investments in the future, hurt job creation, and lessen opportunities that make the American dream possible for millions of families across our great nation. The Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates that the overall provisions contained within this bill would reduce net revenues, and increase deficits by a total of $622 billion over 10 years. We know that every dollar in lost revenue must be made up somewhere else in the budget. Far too often my Republican colleagues have sought to do this by reducing spending in critically important domestic spending programs such as infrastructure, education, social security, and healthcare. I carefully weighed this tax extenders package against its long-term impact on Congress' ability to help businesses create jobs and opportunities, invest in our aging infrastructure, and strengthen our national security. In the end, this bill came up short. The American people deserve a more balanced bill that offsets its cost, and helps both individuals and businesses equitably across the board. Unfortunately this bill was not able to meet that objective. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-and-appalachian-regional-commission-announce-368000-grant | Rep. Sewell and Appalachian Regional Commission Announce $368,000 Grant for Workforce Development Programs for Hale County | 2015-12-11 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell and Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Federal Co-Chair Earl F. Gohl announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission is providing a $368,000 grant to recruit, train, and prepare workers for Alabama's automotive industry. Shelton State Community College and the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce will administer the program that will focus on workforce development in Hale County, Alabama. I am thrilled that Hale County has been chosen to receive a workforce development grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission. Closing the skills gap for the workforce in the 7th Congressional District of Alabama continues to be a major priority for my office, said Rep. Sewell. A strong and vibrant workforce is imperative to the growth and prosperity of Alabama's Black Belt. "Creative community partnerships are the key to economic success." said Earl Gohl, Federal Co-Chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission. "Investing in this collaboration between Shelton State Community College and the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce will help Hale County's workforce reach its full potential and engage in a global economy." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-passage-bipartisan-customs-conference-report | Rep. Sewell Votes for Passage of the Bipartisan Customs Conference Report | 2015-12-11 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after voting for the passage of the conference report to H.R. 644, the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015. The Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act will help protect American industries, particularly steel, from unfair trade practices and give them the necessary tools to seek timely and effective remedies. American steel makers and manufacturers have been burdened by illegally traded imports for far too long, costing the industry billions of dollars a year. Steel plants across Alabama's 7th Congressional District have had to cut pay or lay off workers because foreign trading partners refuse to pay their customs duties which are intended to offset harmful subsidies and dumping. Today's vote sends a clear message to our foreign trading partners that the United States will no longer tolerate the evasion of lawfully owed duties. In addition, this bill ends the import of goods made from child and forced labor, increases de minimis customs thresholds, establishes and funds the Interagency Trade Enforcement Center which will assist agencies in coordinating efforts to eliminates trade loopholes, strengthens the Treasury's evaluation of currency manipulators, and creates the State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Program to help small businesses reach new markets. While I had hoped that the conference report would have included provisions to allow injured industries and workers to request that currency manipulation be investigated as an illegal export subsidy under our current trade laws, I will continue to push for inclusion of this critical provision in future legislation. I look forward to the President signing this important legislation into law and continuing to work with Congress to promote enforcement measures that strengthen our nation's trade laws and ensure fair trade between our foreign trading partners. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-sewell-and-royce-push-remove-barriers-homeownership | Reps. Sewell and Royce Push to Remove Barriers to Homeownership | 2015-12-10 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell and Republican Congressman Ed Royce (CA-40) introduced H.R. 4211, the Credit Score Competition Act of 2015. The bill allows Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to consider alternate credit scoring models when making mortgage lending decisions. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are the largest mortgage purchasers in the nation, but they rely on credit score models that don't necessarily take into account something as simple as whether borrowers have paid their rent on time. Home ownership is an integral part of the American Dream that shouldn't be out of the reach for low-income, rural, and minority borrowers who lack access to traditional forms of credit. This legislation takes an important step towards addressing this issue and helps make homeownership a reality for more Americans across the country, said Rep. Sewell. The Credit Score Competition Act of 2015 allows Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to consider modern and updated credit scoring models that give more creditworthy buyers access to affordable, home mortgages. It is my hope that this critically important legislation will help make homeownership a reality for many of the hard-working men and women living in Alabama's 7th Congressional District, she added. Breaking up the credit score monopoly at Fannie and Freddie will assist them in managing their credit risk and avoiding the need for another taxpayer bailout," said Rep. Royce. The GSEs' use of a single credit score stifles innovation and affordability in the credit scoring field and bars millions of qualified homebuyers from purchasing a home." About the Credit Score Competition Act of 2015 Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac currently evaluate their ability to purchase a mortgage based exclusively on a consumer's Fair Issac Corporation (FICO) credit score. FICO scores are based on models and data from 1995 to 2000 that unnecessarily excludes millions of qualified borrowers. The Credit Score Competition Act of 2015 enables Fannie and Freddie to use updated and alternative credit score models that … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-supports-department-transportation-dot-investigation-alabama | Rep. Sewell Supports Department of Transportation (DOT) Investigation into Alabama DMV Closures | 2015-12-09 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation announced it will investigate reduced services at driver license offices across the State of Alabama for potential discrimination against African American residents in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. I welcome the U.S. Department of Transportation's decision to investigate the impact of Alabama lawmakers' decision to reduce services at 34 DMV offices a decision that has a discriminatory effect on 8 out of the 10 counties in Alabama with the highest percentage of Black registered voters. Alabama cannot balance the budget on the backs of those who can least afford it, nor infringe upon the civil rights of minorities by limiting access to the most popular form of identification used to vote. Reducing services at these DMV offices further compounds the discriminatory impact of Alabama's pernicious photo ID law that excludes more than 250,000 Alabamians from the democratic process. The negative impact of the State of Alabama's ill-conceived decision to eliminate and reduce DMV services proves that federal oversight is still necessary. Unfortunately, Alabama has not yet fully learned the lessons of its painful past. It is still unlawful for state actions to result in a discriminatory effect on African Americans, irrespective of the intentions of such actions. When Alabama requires a photo ID to vote and then reduces access to the most popular form of identification because of budgetary reasons, that state decision is suspect, especially if the savings to the state are less than $100,000. This narrative reinforces old stereotypes about Alabama and harkens us back to our Jim Crow past when federal intervention was required to enforce constitutionally protected rights. It saddens me that this is still a reality in my home state today but I am glad the Obama Administration recognizes the need to investigate the discriminatory impact of state action such as the DMV closures. I fully expect Alabama of… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-passage-long-term-transportation-bill | Rep. Sewell Votes for Passage of the Long-Term Transportation Bill | 2015-12-03 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after voting for the passage of the bipartisan conference report on H.R. 22, Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act). By making smart, strategic investments in our aging infrastructure, Congress will create more good-paying jobs for Americans. In order to continue to compete in today's global economy we must have a first class transportation system that creates jobs, attracts industry, and enables American companies to better transport goods. Today's passage of the FAST Act was an important step towards achieving those goals. The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that 25 percent of Alabama's roads are in poor or mediocre condition, and that those roads cost motorists an average $141 in extra vehicle repairs. I am pleased that this bill provides $281 billion in much needed funding to repair and maintain our nation's highway, transit, and transportation safety programs over the next five years. This bill also reauthorizes the critically important Export-Import Bank for four years. America cannot lose its competitive edge in an increasingly global marketplace. At no cost to taxpayers, the Export-Import Bank has helped American businesses better compete abroad. For nearly 20 years, the Export-Import Bank has created or sustained 1.5 million private sector jobs. In these recovering economic times, job creation will undoubtedly remain my number one priority. This long term transportation bill will be a catalyst for increased economic vitality and development. I look forward to the President signing this bipartisan bill which provides long-term certainty for essential projects and helps put more Alabamians back to work. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-supports-greater-birmingham-ministries-and-alabama-naacp | Rep. Sewell Supports Greater Birmingham Ministries and Alabama NAACP Lawsuit | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the Greater Birmingham Ministries and the Alabama NAACP filed a federal lawsuit against the State of Alabama, challenging the state's repressive photo ID law. "I fully support the federal lawsuit filed by the Greater Birmingham Ministries and the Alabama NAACP, challenging the photo ID law in our state. I have repeatedly argued that Alabama's photo ID law is a renewed assault on voting rights. The restrictive law is little more than a solution in search of a problem. The reality is that voter fraud is rare. Requiring a photo ID law to vote has done more harm in limiting voter access to the ballot box than actually exposing incidents of fraud. The Alabama photo ID law is reminiscent of our Jim Crow past. It restricts the voting rights of more than 250,000 Alabamians who do not have a photo ID. Many of the disenfranchised are African-Americans, low-income individuals, senior citizens, and the disabled. There is no denying that requiring a photo ID adds another barrier to voting and thus limits the ability to American citizens to exercise their fundamental right to vote. I applaud the efforts of the Alabama NAACP and the Greater Birmingham Ministries in challenging Alabama's photo ID law. I am a proud Alabamian and acknowledge the progress we have made. Unfortunately, the photo ID law coupled with the DMV closures and the violations to the Motor Voter law further undermines our state's ability to move beyond our painful past. I introduced the Voting Rights Advancement Act in June to stop the renewed assault on voting rights, and to restore preclearance for states like Alabama where new barriers to voting threaten to silence the most vulnerable voices in our electorate. The need for this lawsuit is evidence that Alabama cannot run away from its painful past, and we must vow to never repeat it. The need for this lawsuit indicates that progress is elusive, and that we must be ever vigilant in our fight to protect the right to vote and honor the sacrifices … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-passage-every-student-succeeds-act | Rep. Sewell Votes for Passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act | 2015-12-02 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Terri Sewell issued the following statement after voting for passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act, a bipartisan, bicameral agreement that replaces the current, outdated No Child Left Behind Act. Tonight, I voted in favor of the Every Student Succeeds Act, which replaces the outdated No Child Left Behind Act. While this bill is not perfect, its passage represents great progress for students, teachers, and communities in the 7th Congressional District of Alabama and across the nation. As the daughter of two long-time educators and the proud product of Selma public schools, my commitment to public education is profoundly personal. The journey I now take as Alabama's first black Congresswoman is a testament to the power of public education. As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of passage of the landmark Elementary and Secondary Education Act, I am pleased this reauthorization ensures that funds will continue to be directed to the school districts and communities that most need them. The bill reduces the amount of standardized testing in schools and empowers educators to have a stronger voice in classroom decisions. The Every Student Succeeds Act is a promising improvement over current law as this bill protects the millions of minority, disabled, and disadvantaged students we were sent here to represent. This bill is worthy of President Obama's signature, and I look forward to seeing what is in store for our nation's schools and students under this bill. I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that our federal dollars are being spent on high-quality education for all students, regardless of race, socio-economic status or zip code. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-commemorating-60th-anniversary-montgomery | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Montgomery Bus Boycott | 2015-12-01 | 2015 | 2015-12 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement in honor of the 60th Anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Sixty years ago today, Rosa Parks took a bold stand against racial discrimination by refusing to give up her seat on a public bus. Her quiet, dignified courage sparked a city-wide boycott of the Montgomery bus system that broke the very will of a City heavily steeped in segregation. She inspired a civil rights movement that changed a nation. The Montgomery Bus Boycott stands as a powerful testament of the will of a disenfranchised people to work collectively to achieve extraordinary social change. While we commemorate the progress that has been made, we must also recommit ourselves to the fight for equal justice. We must remain vigilant in the struggle for voting rights, criminal justice reform, and economic equality. We cannot take for granted the battles endured by those who came before us, nor can we neglect our own responsibilities to ensure liberty and justice. The struggle continues, and each of us must do our part to further the cause of human and civil rights for all Americans." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-supports-bill-strengthen-refugee-screening-process-while | Rep. Sewell Supports Bill to Strengthen Refugee Screening Process While Still Aiding Humanitarian Crisis | 2015-11-19 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 4038American SAFE Act of 2015: While I remain committed to the U.S. refugee resettlement program, as a Member of Congress the safety and security of the American people is my first priority. The horrific terrorist attacks in Paris and Beirut not only shake our very conscience but should also cause us to evaluate and re-examine our own security measures and protocols. I am convinced that we must be more vigilant in our refugee screening and vetting processes. The bill seeks to strengthen the screening process by prohibiting refugees from Syria and Iraq from being admitted into the United States without a more comprehensive background check and by adding government certification to our already robust security screening protocol. To be clear, the recent terrorist attacks should not cause us to live in a state of fear nor abandon our humanitarian values. While our nation's security remains the top priority, the displacement of millions of Iraqis and Syrians ravaged by the cruelties of war is an international crisis that demands we do our part. As Americans, it is against our shared value of human rights to do nothing for those seeking asylum. My support for this bill in no way diminishes my commitment to those shared values. However, I am convinced that our current refugee vetting process can be more effective. While the United States cannot turn our backs on refugees, we must have a more stringent screening process. My vote today is reflective of the fact that there are no perfect or easy solutions to the challenges we face in fighting terrorism and combating ISIS. Yet it is clear to me, that we must evaluate our national counterterrorism strategy and policies continuously to ensure that we are doing everything within our power to protect the American people and to defeat and destroy ISIS and all terrorists that seek to do us harm. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-observance-veterans-day | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement in Observance of Veterans Day | 2015-11-11 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement in commemoration of Veterans Day: Today we salute the selfless sacrifices of our nation's 21 million veterans. These patriots have kept our nation safe while defending our nation at home and abroad. They have served our country with distinction, and we should honor them for their bravery and courage with actions -- not simply words. Congress must continue to support and provide critical resources to the Veterans Administration (VA) to ensure that our veterans have access to quality health care, good-paying jobs, affordable housing, and opportunities to continue their education. We should not deny the very liberties they fought to protect, nor deny them any benefits they so fittingly deserve. I am committed to ensuring that we honor the promises that were made to these American heroes. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to them and their families by vowing to make sure they succeed. They deserve nothing less. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-visit-cuba-united-states-agriculture-secretary | Rep. Sewell to Visit Cuba with United States Agriculture Secretary | 2015-11-10 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell is joining U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on a Congressional delegation to Cuba to discuss opportunities to expand agricultural trade. I am excited to join Secretary Vilsack for this historic visit to Cuba. This visit builds on the trade summit I hosted in Montgomery earlier this year with U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman. Given Alabama's growing trade interests, I look forward to meeting with members of Cuba's Ministry of Agriculture and discussing ways to further expand trade with Cuba. Alabama exported approximately $32.8 million in food products to Cuba in 2014, according to the Foreign Trade Division of the U.S. Census Bureau. With renewed U.S. diplomatic relations in Havana, my hope is that Alabama will derive huge economic benefits that have been fostered by existing trade relationships with Cuba. "Access to foreign markets and fair trade policies that benefit American workers are necessary components that will help Alabama exporters to continue to thrive and spur new job creation. President Obama took historic steps to chart a new course for U.S.-Cuba relations when he restored diplomatic relations between our two countries. This will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for increased trade and investment opportunities in Cuba for Alabama businesses, especially those in our agriculture sector." Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon, Representative Suzan DelBene of Washington, and Representative Kurt Schrader of Oregon are participating in the Cuba trip. The Congressional delegation is leaving Washington, D.C. on Wednesday and will return on Saturday. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-passage-drive-act | Rep. Sewell Votes for Passage of the DRIVE ACT | 2015-11-05 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Rep Terri Sewell issued the following statement after voting for the passage of the DRIVE Act, a bipartisan bill that reauthorizes the Highway Trust Fund and the Export Import Bank. By making smart, strategic investments in our aging infrastructure, Congress will create more good-paying jobs for Americans and boost commerce. While this bill is not perfect, today's vote for the DRIVE Act was certainly a step in the right direction towards providing critical investments in infrastructure maintenance and development. The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that 25 percent of Alabama's roads are in poor or mediocre condition, and that those roads cost motorists an average $141 in extra vehicle repairs. Many of my constituents can ill-afford these additional costs. Unfortunately, the House version of the Highway bill is insufficient to meet the urgent transportation and infrastructure needs of so many communities across the country. However, I believe that the good outweighs the bad. This bill contains important provisions that would promote minority- and women-owned small businesses, and boost recruitment and training of transit workers from underrepresented communities. It also strengthens By America requirements to create more jobs right here at home. I am proud too that two amendments I offered alongside Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee have been included in the Highway Bill. These amendments help promote the goal of improving transportation efficiency and safety by providing Congress with the critical information and data to enhance the safety of public transit areas used by students, women, seniors, disabled, and other vulnerable members of our community. I am mindful too that this bill would reauthorize the critically important Export Import Bank for four years. America cannot compromise its competitive edge in an increasing global marketplace. The Export Import Bank has helped American businesses better compete overseas at no cost to taxpayers. For nearly 20 years, the Export Import Bank has created or sustain… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-unveils-restorethevote | Rep. Sewell Unveils #RestoreTheVOTE | 2015-11-03 | 2015 | 2015-11 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Rep Terri Sewell was joined by leaders of the House Democratic Caucus as she unveiled #RestoreTheV.O.T.E, or Restore the Voices of the Excluded, a national legislative effort to mobilize support for the Voting Rights Advancement Act which restores and advances the Voting Rights Act of 1965. As part of the #RestoreTheVOTE legislative outreach strategy, every Tuesday that Congress is in session will be called Restoration Tuesday. Members of Congress will wear a #RestoreTheVOTE ribbon pin, speak on the House floor about the importance of protecting voting rights, and share personal testimonials from constituents who have encountered modern day barriers to voting. Since nothing is more American than voting, the ribbon pin is red, white and blue striped and represents a visual symbol of our commitment to restore the vote! Interested organizations and stakeholders will also participate in Restoration Tuesday and help mobilize support for the passage of the Voting Rights Advancement Act, as well as participate on the social media. Today, I was proud to stand with my congressional colleagues to launch the #RestoreTheVOTE legislative strategy. This national effort will help mobilize support for the Voting Rights Advancement Act, a bill that I sponsored with Reps. Judy Chu and Linda Sanchez to restore and expand federal oversight to jurisdictions which have a recent history of voter discrimination. As a daughter of Selma, I am painfully aware that the injustices suffered on the Edmund Pettus Bridge 50 years ago have not been fully vindicated. The recent decision by the State of Alabama to close 31 DMV offices in spite of the state's photo ID law is just one example of modern day barriers to voting that would have been precluded if federal preclearance provisions were still in effect. While we no longer have to count marbles in a jar or recite the names of all the counties, there are still laws and decisions that make it harder for people to vote. To restrict the ability of any American to vote is an assault on the r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-favor-budget-deal-averts-potential-government-shutdown | Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of Budget Deal that Averts a Potential Government Shutdown | 2015-10-28 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after voting in support of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015: Congress cannot continue to govern crisis-by-crisis. Few in Congress want to repeat the costly 2013 government shutdown, and thankfully today's vote reflected that. I still have strong concerns about the proposed changes to the critically important crop insurance program that helps support farmers and ranchers in the 7th Congressional District, and across the country. However, I will take House leadership at their word as they have assured me that we will continue to work together to resolve this issue for our farming community. While this bill is not a perfect one, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 breaks the sequester stronghold that has stifled our domestic and defense spending priorities. Alabama was hit hard when the sequester was implemented, and this bill loosens the arbitrary spending caps that hampered critical investments in domestic programs. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the direct effect of the budget agreement will create 340,000 additional new jobs in 2016, and a total of 500,000 jobs by 2017. These jobs are critically important to hardworking Americans who continue to struggle to make ends meet and provide for their families. The Bipartisan Budget Act ultimately creates economic certainty, affirms the full faith and credit of the United States, and ensures that our brave men and women in uniform have the resources they need to meet ongoing and emerging threats around the world. I am also proud that this bill will block a 20 percent cut in Social Security disability benefits, and prevent a 52 percent spike in Medicare Part B premiums. If Congress refused to act, premiums for Alabama's Medicare population would have jumped 52 percent on January 1, 2016. Our nation made a promise to seniors that we would assist them with medical costs as they aged. We cannot take back that promise. Both sides of the aisle have made compromises in order to reach this poin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-secures-20m-transit-grant-city-birmingham | Rep. Sewell Secures $20M Transit Grant for the City of Birmingham | 2015-10-26 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell announced today that she helped the City of Birmingham secure a $20 million TIGER Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The money will be used for a 15-mile Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project which will connect 25 West and East Birmingham neighborhoods that are primarily low-income, communities of color. I am proud to have helped secure this $20 million TIGER Grant for this critically important project. Birmingham is a City on the rise, and this project will support our efforts to improve our public transportation, and revitalize the Magic City, said Rep. Sewell. One of the primary goals of President Obama's Ladders of Opportunity initiative is community revitalization. This project will help us create more economic opportunities for underserved communities, and contribute to the success of the Birmingham World Games in 2021. The significance of this funding is that it allows us to connect the eastern and western parts of town with the city center providing access to jobs, education opportunities and healthcare in a transformative way. This was a collaborative effort and our thanks go out to the team of people that worked to secure this grant, especially Congresswoman Sewell who made it her mission to get it approved, said Birmingham Mayor William Bell. This is a wonderful day for the Birmingham-Jefferson County (BJCTA) area, said Rev. Patrick Sellers, the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority Board Chairman. We can now move towards the next generation of public transit in the area with Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). This funding will help us continue toward our mission to provide world-class transit service that is convenient, reliable and safe. We are so thankful for Congresswoman Terri Sewell's tireless work to get this funding for the system. Her work changes the game for public transit in Alabama. The BRT line will make a huge difference for thousands of commuters who need and deserve reliable transit service, said Barbara Murdock, BJCTA Interim Executive Director. This … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-slams-alabama-s-failure-comply-national-voter-registration | Rep. Sewell Slams Alabamas Failure to Comply with the National Voter Registration Act | 2015-10-23 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Justice threat to sue the State of Alabama for noncompliance with the National Voter Registration Act. It is deeply disappointing but not surprising that an ongoing investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice found that Alabama failed to comply with the National Voter Registration Act. The purpose of the National Voter Registration Act is to remove impediments to voter registration, and to encourage Alabamians to make their voices heard through the electoral process. Sadly, this comes on the heels of the decision by Alabama lawmakers to limit the hours of operation for many DMV offices around the state. Alabama's noncompliance with the National Voter Registration Act coupled with the limited access to DMV offices is further proof of the dire need to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Alabamians have worked hard to put our painful past behind us, only to cast ourselves in the spotlight once more. We need not count marbles in a jar or memorize the name of every county in the state, but new barriers have replaced overt efforts to suppress voter turnout. These new barriers such as Alabama's voter ID law have been passed off as measures needed to protect the vote, but in reality they have only made it harder to vote. Shame on Alabama for not living up to the promise of equal access to the ballot box. We must make voter registration easier and protect the vote, rather than suppress it. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-asks-doj-investigation-alabama-driver-s-license-closures | Rep. Sewell Asks for a DOJ Investigation into Alabama Drivers License Closures | 2015-10-05 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell released a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch, calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the closing of 31 drivers license offices in Alabama, a decision with disproportionately impacts residents of Alabamas 7th Congressional District. My office sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch calling for a full, and thorough investigation into the decision to close 31 drivers license offices across Alabama. This ill-conceived decision left 8 out of the 14 counties in my district which is the only majority minority district in the state without a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue an Alabama drivers license. The real issue here is about access. Closing these license offices will severely limit access to the most popular form of photo identification used in voting a state issued drivers license. It is disappointing, and unconscionable that Alabama would heighten its requirements to vote without also increasing the available options to meet these requirements. Closing 31 drivers license offices across the state only heightens the disparities in voting between low-income and higher-income communities, and would disproportionately impact the residents of the 7th Congressional District. These closures will potentially disenfranchise Alabamas poor, elderly, disabled and black communities. My constituents are the least able, and least likely to have access to transportation either public or private and thus travel across county lines for a drivers license. I am particularly appalled by this decision in light of the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches and the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. Our nation should be moving forward in terms of expanding access to the vote. Its utterly disappointing that my home state the very state that launched the movement towards equality is the same state that has become fertile ground for its demise. The renewed assault on our sacred, constitutionally protected to vote must be stopped. I look forward to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-releases-letter-attorney-general-loretta-lynch-requesting | Rep. Sewell Releases Letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch Requesting Investigation Into DMV Closures | 2015-10-05 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | 908 Alabama Avenue Federal Building, Suite 112 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-secures-research-grants-baptist-health-system-and-university | Rep. Sewell Secures Research Grants for Baptist Health System and the University of Alabama at Birmingham | 2015-10-02 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell announced that she helped secure federal, research grants for the Baptist Health System, Inc., and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Baptist Health System is one of 39 health care collaborative networks selected to participate in the Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative, a training program that helps physicians adopt a more patient-centered approach to care. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded a $2.7 million grant to Baptist Health System for the program. I am proud that Baptist Health System was chosen for this grant. Physicians are truly the on front lines, and we need to ensure that they have the tools and resources they need to provide the best care possible. The Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative will assist physicians in transitioning from a volume based model of care to a more patient-centered approach, said Rep. Terri Sewell. Ultimately, improving the quality of care will empower patients to make stronger choices for themselves and their families. From our own experience with practice transformation within the Baptist Health System and the Baptist Physician Alliance, we know that meaningful change occurs when face-to-face support is provided in the clinical setting, said Dr. Anne-Laura Cook, the Medical Director of Population Health Management & Primary Care Innovation at Baptist Health Centers. We intend for this work to result in better health, better care, and lower costs for the people of Alabama. Separately, the University of Alabama at Birmingham will receive a $834,000 grant from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute for research related to high blood pressure in low-income, minority and rural communities. My father is a stroke survivor, so I have witnessed first-hand the debilitating effects a stroke has on individuals, families and their communities. High blood pressure is a major contributor to heart disease and strokes, and the impact of high blood pressure is most keenly felt in minority, low-income and rural … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-denounces-alabama-decision-close-31-driver-s-license-offices | Rep. Sewell Denounces Alabama Decision to Close 31 Drivers License Offices | 2015-10-01 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell denounced the decision by Alabama officials to close 31 driving license offices across the state, which disproportionally impacts residents in the 7th Congressional District. The voices of our most vulnerable citizens have been further silenced by the decision to close 31 drivers license offices across Alabama. Under Alabamas voter ID law, only a handful of photo identification can be used at polling places, and the state-issued drivers license is the most popular form of identification presented. To limit access to obtaining a drivers license -- while insisting on a photo ID to vote -- is an unconscionable and overt barrier to voting. Twenty-nine counties in Alabama will have no drivers license offices, of which 15 of those counties are located in the rural parts of the Black Belt. This fact means many of my constituents who have limited modes of transportation will be denied an equal opportunity to obtain a means to vote. To restrict the ability of any Alabamian to vote is an assault on the rights of all Alabamians to equally participate in the electoral process. When the State of Alabama started requiring a photo ID to vote in 2014, officials claimed it would reduce voter fraud. The reality is that voter fraud is rare, and the net result of the Alabama photo ID law has been to restrict equal access to ballot box for low-income, senior and disabled citizens. The closure decision combined with the voter ID law is eerily reminiscent of past, discriminatory practices such as poll taxes and literacy tests that restricted the black vote. I seriously question the judgement behind the closing drivers license offices in the most vulnerable communities. The State of Alabama should either rescind its requirement for voter IDs at the polling place or allow these offices to stay open. I am calling on Alabama lawmakers to reverse this ill-conceived decision and to rescind the voter ID law. As elected officials, we should be encouraging citizens to vote, not creating barriers that limit access to t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-voted-against-national-defense-authorization-act | Rep. Sewell Voted Against the National Defense Authorization Act | 2015-10-01 | 2015 | 2015-10 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after voting against the Fiscal Year 2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): The brave men and women who serve our country in the armed forces deserve our full support. My vote today in no way undermines my unyielding commitment to preserving our national security, and ensuring our military has the resources that it needs to meet ongoing and emerging threats around the world. I am deeply concerned that this bill would set a dangerous precedent by promoting uncertainty for our military at a time when it desperately needs reliable support. The budget gimmick contained in the NDAA circumvents sequestration funding caps by authorizing billions more than requested to the Defense overseas contingency operations account, and then using this surplus as a slush fund. This approach to budgeting overcompensates defense spending at the expense of essential domestic programs that are the lifeline for the people I represent. It is woefully unfair to allow DOD to exceed sequestration funding levels in the name of national security, while not also raising funding levels for necessary domestic programs which provide security for the most vulnerable in our society. Ultimately, we must eliminate sequestration caps across the board, for both defense and domestic spending programs, and enact a long-term comprehensive budget. Since this bill will be vetoed by President Obama, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass a national defense authorization bill which appropriately funds all necessary government services and obligations. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-avert-government-shutdown | Rep. Sewell Votes to Avert a Government Shutdown | 2015-09-30 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted for a Continuing Resolution that averts a government shutdown, and gives Congress additional time to work with President Obama on a comprehensive budget deal. Congress cannot continue to govern crisis-by-crisis. We narrowly averted a government shutdown with todays vote, and thats not a position where we should be. The American people should expect more from the leaders they elected to serve them. I voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution that maintains government funding through December 11, 2015. I am cautiously optimistic that Congress can come up with a long-term solution before the December deadline, and I urge my colleagues to put aside partisan politics in order to do whats best for our nation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-statement-pope-francis-address-congress | Rep. Sewell Statement on Pope Francis Address to Congress | 2015-09-24 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Pope Francis address to Congress reminded our nation of its greatness, and challenged us to go even farther in the pursuit of liberty and justice. We must look at our neighbor as our brother, and work to end injustice anywhere it exists. I was pleased to hear His Holiness acknowledge the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and recognize the significance of the marches from Selma to Montgomery. As the Pope noted, dreams lead to action, to participation, to commitment. I cannot think of a better example than the courage and strength shown by those brave men and women for whom that dream was so real it pushed them to lay down their very lives for equality. That moment was especially poignant for me, as I had the privilege of sitting next to my personal hero and civil rights icon Representative John Lewis. Dr. Kings dream, however, has only been partially fulfilled. The legacies of the past still taint the present, and many Americans still struggle to exercise one of our most fundamental rights as citizens the right to vote. As our country continues to work towards becoming a more inclusive nation, we cannot overlook the most vulnerable amongst us. Instead, we must work together to ensure that the rights and liberties of every American citizen are never compromised. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-encourages-high-school-seniors-register-vote | Rep. Sewell Encourages High School Seniors to Register to Vote | 2015-09-22 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement in recognition of National Voter Registration Day: Our votes are our voice, and every eligible voter should make his or her voice heard. Its important that we encourage and engage younger voters. Historically, young adults ages 18-24 are less likely to vote as compared to older adults. Voting is one of our most fundamental rights. We cannot take it for granted. National Voter Registration Day encourages high school seniors to register to vote, and to become active and engaged citizens within their communities. As a daughter of Selma, I cannot forget the sacrifices that were made by the brave men and women who laid their lives on the line so that all Americans can enjoy their Constitutionally-guaranteed right to vote. We must honor that legacy by voting in each and every election local, state, and federal. I am calling on our young people to register to vote. You are the future, and we need to hear your voices. Eligible voters can download a voter registration form at: https://vote.usa.gov/ ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-observance-anniversary-911 | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement in Observance of the Anniversary of 9/11 | 2015-09-11 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement in observance of the 14th anniversary of September 11, 2001: On this day 14 years ago, our nation was forever changed by the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11. Today, we honor those who lost their lives and pay homage to the courageous first responders whose bravery helped to save the lives of so many affected by this tragedy. I hope we will remember these American heroes as the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act is set to expire. If Congress does not act this could jeopardize the medical monitoring, care, and compensation program responders and survivors across the country. We must work to preserve this legislation and give them the resources they need to continue to heal. They deserve nothing less. As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I understand the fight against terrorism is one that we must always take seriously as a country. However, this tragedy also taught us the importance of working together. We share a common humanity, and must be vigilant in our collective efforts to protect it. This is critical to protecting our beloved country and ensuring that these ideals are passed on to future generations. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-applauds-senator-murkowski-supporting-voting-rights | Rep. Sewell Applauds Senator Murkowski for Supporting the Voting Rights Advancement Act | 2015-09-10 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska signed on to the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 as a co-sponsor. I am excited that the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 has bipartisan support in the Senate. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska became the first Republican to support the bill, and I am hopeful that other Republicans in both the House and Senate will join our efforts to restore federal voting protections. The Voting Rights Advancement Act reaffirms our commitment to voter equality and creating more pathways to voter access. The updated coverage ensures that states, like Alabama, are required to obtain preclearance for changes to voting practices and procedures and includes critical protections for Native Americans, naturalized citizens, and disabled voters. It is my hope that Congress rises to the challenge issued that the Supreme Court issued us. The Voting Rights Advancement Act contains a modern-day formula that requires states and localities with a recent history of racial discrimination in voting to seek approval from the U.S. Department of Justice before making any changes to their electoral laws. The landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 was born out of the struggle for voting equality, and addressed the need to expand federal voting protections so that no citizen is denied his or her constitutionally-guaranteed right to vote. The fate of our democracy rests with each and every citizen's right to vote. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-supports-iran-nuclear-agreement | Rep. Sewell Supports Iran Nuclear Agreement | 2015-09-09 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell, a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement in support of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCOPA) negotiated between Iran and the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, France and Germany (P5+1 )with respect to Iran's nuclear capabilities. After several months of thorough deliberation, classified briefings with nuclear experts and military officials, and extensive conversations with numerous constituent groups and diplomats from our allied nations and partners, I have decided to support the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). I did not come to this decision lightly, nor am I under any illusions that this agreement is notwithout its problems. However, I believe this agreement is the best multilaterally negotiatedagreement we will get, and thus represents the most viable diplomatic option moving forward. To be clear, my decision to support the JCPOA is not based on a belief in Iran's intentions but rather in the power of the international community to collectively enforce a nuclear-free Iran. As a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I have a unique understanding of our intelligence capabilities and of our capacity to monitor Iran's compliance with the JCPOA. Moreover, all of the options available to the United Statesincluding the use of military forcewill remain available throughout the life of the deal and beyond. Ultimately, I believe the JCPOA provides us with a diplomatic path forward and helps us further counter Iran's destabilizing activities in the region. While I have no trust in Iran, I believe in the strength and commitment of our nation andits allied partners toprevent Iran from developing a nuclear bomb. We are strongest when the international community speaks with one voice. Voting against this plan would embolden Iran to hasten its nuclear development which would ultimately increase the likelihood of war. This agreement gives international inspectors unprecedented acce… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-terri-sewell-visits-alabama-troops-iraq | Rep. Terri Sewell Visits Alabama Troops in Iraq | 2015-09-02 | 2015 | 2015-09 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | This week Congresswoman Terri Sewell, a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, met with members of the Alabama National Guard's 20th Special Forces unit and received oversight briefings on the current U.S. Department of Defense training mission with Syrian fighters and the Iraqi Army during a four-day trip to Iraq. Our brave men and women in uniform play an integral role in Iraq, and my visit to Ebril and Baghdad deepened my appreciation for the sacrifices they have made to protect our country. I was especially honored to meet with members of the Alabama National Guard's 20th Special Forces division, and to learn more about their vital mission in Iraq. I want to thank these remarkable Alabama National Guardsmen for their exemplary service to our nation during their deployment in Iraq. I am especially proud to acknowledge the critical role that Alabama troops are playing in the fight against global terrorism. As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, one of my most sacred duties is to ensure that every vote I make supports and advances our national security. Freedom is not free, and members of the armed forces deserve special recognition for their service and sacrifice. We in Alabama are doing our part. About the Alabama National Guard's Special Forces The Alabama National Guard's 20th Special Forces Group (A), part of U.S. Special Operations Command, is currently deployed in the Kurdish Region of Northern Iraq. Comprised of U.S. Special Forces advisory teams and support personnel, they are assigned to advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Peshmerga Forces as they conduct operations to combat and defeat ISIL. These teams help the Iraqi and Peshmerga Forces as they plan future operations, to include sharing intelligence and helping develop security strategies and targeting plans. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-terri-sewell-expresses-her-condolences-passing-amelia-boynton | Rep. Terri Sewell Expresses Her Condolences for the Passing of Amelia Boynton Robinson | 2015-08-26 | 2015 | 2015-08 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell expressed her condolences regarding the passing of 104-year-old civil rights legend Amelia Boynton Robinson. Today while we mourn the passing of Amelia Boynton Robinson, we must also celebrate the life and legacy of a real American treasure. Mrs. Boynton Robinson personified the essence of an American hero through her courageous and passionate fight for the fundamental right to vote for every citizen in this nation. I will always cherish the time we spent together when she honored me as my special guest for the State of the Union on January 20, 2015. I am grateful for the memories of her greeting President Obama that night and I am so blessed to call her a beloved mentor and friend. Mrs. Amelia Boynton Robinson will not only be remembered for her invaluable contributions as a matriarch of the voting rights movement but she was also the first black woman from the State of Alabama to run for Congress. Without her courageous campaign for the 7th Congressional District, I know that my election to this seat in 2010 would not have been possible. Her sacrifices paved the way for me to walk the halls of Congress and I will carry my love and admiration for her in my heart each and every day. As she reminded us in life, there is still much work to be done for this nation to live up to its ideals of equality and justice for all. Let us be inspired by the extraordinary life of Mrs. Amelia Boynton Robinson to keep striving and working towards a more perfect union. May we honor her by continuing her life's work. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-passing-former-congressman-louis-stokes | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement on the Passing of former Congressman Louis Stokes | 2015-08-19 | 2015 | 2015-08 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Birmingham, AL -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement regarding the passing of former U.S. Representative Louis Stokes: I am saddened by the passing of Rep. Louis Stokes. Stokes was a true trailblazer -- he was the first black Congressman from Ohio and later became the first African-American to serve as chairman of the prestigious House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. As an African-American who now sits on that Committee, I am deeply honored to follow in Rep. Stokes footsteps. His legacy calls on us to continue the fight to promote diversity within the intelligence community and to support policies that maintain our national security in the face of growing threats. I am committed to carrying on his legacy, and my prayers are with those who he has left behind. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/usda-announces-16-million-investments-7th-congressional-district | USDA Announces $1.6 Million in Investments for the 7th Congressional District | 2015-08-12 | 2015 | 2015-08 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today Congresswoman Terri Sewell welcomed U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to Alabama's 7th Congressional District where he announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $1.6 million in various projects within Alabama's 7th Congressional District. Secretary Vilsack made the announcement during his tour through the 7th Congressional District with Congresswoman Sewell. They began their district tour with a groundbreaking ceremony in Whitehall to launch a waste water treatment plant that received a $1.02 million grant and a $112,000 USDA loan. Secretary Vilsack also joined Congresswoman Sewell for a tour of Kyser Catfish Farm in Greensboro and a roundtable discussion with local catfish farmers in Marengo County. "I am so thrilled that USDA has made these significant investments in my district. Sustaining and supporting rural communities is critically important to the well-being of the constituents who will benefit from these projects," said Congresswoman Sewell. Overall, USDA had invested 4.9 million in the State of Alabama. For a full list of projects, please visit http://goo.gl/7hrvvp ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-expresses-disappointment-alabama-house-s-vote-cut-medicaid | Rep. Sewell Expresses Disappointment with Alabama Houses Vote to Cut Medicaid Funding | 2015-08-06 | 2015 | 2015-08 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (AL-7) released the following statement after the Alabama State House passed a General Fund Budget that includes a $156 million cut to the state Medicaid Agency: I am outraged that the Alabama State House of Representatives cut $156 million from the Alabama Medicaid Agency. This is a fiscally and morally deplorable way to cover the state's budget shortfall. The impact on Children's Hospital, rural hospitals and nursing homes would be devastating, if not fatal. If the state legislature wants to get serious about fixing Alabama's economic woes, lawmakers should urge the governor to expand Medicaid. The decision to not expand Medicaid will cost the state $3.63 billion in federal funding, 15,100 jobs, and $2.6 billion in increased economic activity through 2017. I am hopeful that this budget proposal will not pass in the Senate and that both chambers will come to an agreement on a budget that isn't balanced on the backs of our most vulnerable citizens. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-pledges-fight-stronger-voter-protections | Rep. Sewell Pledges to Fight for Stronger Voter Protections | 2015-08-05 | 2015 | 2015-08 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965: Our constitutionally guaranteed right to vote was paid for by the life of Jimmie Lee Jackson, and the untold sacrifices of the brave Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement. Their courage led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 a landmark law that fulfilled promises made by the Constitution. We need not count marbles in a jar or memorize the name of every county judge, but new barriers have replaced overt efforts to suppress voter turnout. These new barriers such as voter ID laws or changing polling locations without public notice have been passed off as measures needed to protect the vote, but in reality they have only made it harder to vote. The Voting Rights Act abolished many barriers to the ballot box, and ensured that every vote would count. I stood beside my Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate last week to call for full restoration of the federal protections afforded by the Voting Rights Act. As a daughter of Selma and a beneficiary of the Voting Rights Movement, I pledge to be on the frontlines of the legislative fight for federal voter protections. Congress must begin by restoring the Voting Rights Act of 1965. I have introduced the Voting Rights Advancement Act with a modern day formula to determine voter suppression. We cannot return to the days when only some votes mattered. All votes matter. Our nation will cease to be a democracy if we impose arbitrary and unnecessary barriers that silence any voices within our electorate. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-reiterates-call-congress-restore-voting-rights-act | Rep. Sewell Reiterates Call for Congress to Restore the Voting Rights Act | 2015-07-30 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell again called on Congress to restore critical federal protections to protect the sacred right to vote for vulnerable communities. The courageous Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement prayed for, marched for, and were willing to die for the right to vote. Our vote has been consecrated by their sacrifice, and the unwavering heroism they demonstrated by walking across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 was born out of the struggle for voting equality, and addressed the need to expand federal voting protections so that no citizen is denied his or her constitutionally-guaranteed right to vote. In 2013, the Supreme Court gutted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act that determined which jurisdictions need to seek permission from the U.S. Department of Justice before changing their electoral laws. Since then, we have witnessed a steady erosion of federal voter protections and a renewed assault on our sacred right to vote in the form of photo IDs and other tactics designed to suppress voter turnout. Congress cannot stand idly by as localities erect unnecessary barriers to the ballot box. The Supreme Court has issued us a challenge, and that challenge is to find a modern-day formula that applies to jurisdictions with a recent history of racial discrimination in voting. The Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 meets that challenge. I worked alongside Reps. Linda Sanchez and Judy Chu and Senators Leahy, Durbin and Coons to create a new legal framework that addresses the continued need for federal voting protections. The fate of our democracy rests in our hands. When we restrict the right to vote, we are silencing voices within our electorate. Our democracy works best whenever all eligible voters have unfettered, and unrestricted access to the ballot box. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-joins-president-obama-his-africa-trip | Rep. Sewell Joins President Obama on His Africa Trip | 2015-07-23 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell is visiting Kenya and Ethiopia as part of the Presidential delegation to East Africa. I am honored to join President Obama during his official visit to East Africa. I welcome the opportunity to promote Alabama products and businesses abroad. It is my hope that this trip will be a catalyst for a stronger partnership between the United States and our allies in East Africa, and stimulate economic development in this emerging continent. Connecting Alabama businesses with new opportunities for growth is of critical importance to me, particularly in the Black Belt where our agricultural sector is strong. Exports drive Alabamas economy, and I hope this trip provides some insight into how Alabama businesses will benefit from stronger economic ties between the United States and East Africa. I am excited to be a part of this historic journey. I look forward to continuing to work with President Obama to create more avenues for prosperity right here at home. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-announces-marion-added-selma-montgomery-national-historic | Rep. Sewell Announces Marion Added to Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail | 2015-07-20 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today Congresswoman Terri Sewell joined National Parks Service Director Jonathan Jarvis for a ceremony at Zion Methodist Church to announce that the City of Marion, Alabama has been added to the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. The death of Jimmie Lee Jackson was among the catalysts for the Selma to Montgomery marches of 1965. "It was in honor of Jimmie Lee Jackson that ordinary men and women who were tired of injustice gathered in my hometown of Selma to march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge for equality. It was in honor of Jimmie Lee Jackson, who was also a devoted activist and church deacon that we marched to a new America and signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law. And it is in honor of Jimmie Lee Jackson that we celebrate this exciting new chapter in the history of Marion, Alabama." Rep. Sewell said. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-calls-congress-restore-voting-rights-act | Rep. Sewell Calls on Congress to Restore the Voting Rights Act | 2015-07-16 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell spoke of the urgent need to restore federal voter protections alongside Rep. John Lewis and members of the House Democratic leadership team. A transcript of her remarks follows: Today I stand with my colleagues to demand that Congress act to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965. We must not allow ourselves to be distracted by all this talk about the Confederate flag, symbols, and statues. To be sure, these offensive symbols are relics of the past and thats where they belong in the past. But to truly change the hearts and minds of people we must and we must do it now have policies and laws that change behavior. So today we declare that restoring the Voting Rights Act is the most tangible, substantive way that we in Congress can level the playing field, and ensure that all Americans have access to the ballot box. It is a unique and positive action that only Congress can do. Two years ago the Supreme Court in Shelby decision obliterated Section 4 pre-clearance and federal protection for vulnerable communities. The Supreme Court issued Congress a challenge. They said that we needed a modern day formula in order to have federal protection. They didnt say federal protection wasnt needed. They said that we needed a modern day formula. Well Congress can and must answer that challenge. The fate of a democracy depends on its citizens having the unfettered, unrestricted right to vote. Our vote is our voice, and no voice should be silenced. We must never surrender the voice our voice that was died for, prayed for, and marched for by brave Americans like our beloved Congressman John Lewis. When we place barriers to voting or support voting practices that have the intended or unintended consequences of impacting vulnerable communities were restricting their rights. The hypocrisy of this Congress really baffles to me. On March 7, Congressman Lewis and I welcomed over 100 members of Congress to Selma to commemorate Bloody Sunday. The fact that the brave men and women ordinary Americans c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-highway-trust-fund | Rep. Sewell Votes for Highway Trust Fund | 2015-07-15 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the House passed the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2015: Its disappointing that Congress once again has failed to propose a long-term solution to invest in our nations roads, bridges, and rails. The Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2015 is yet another Band Aid, but without this temporary fix the Department of Transportation would be unable to fund any new commitments to fix our aging infrastructure. The reality is our countrys investment in infrastructure is woefully inadequate. In Alabama, twenty percent of our major city streets are in poor condition. Driving on deteriorating roads cost motorists approximately $1.4 billion a year. Investing in our transportation system would also create thousands of good paying construction jobs that help more hard-working Americans earn a living. We cant continue to kick the can down the road we must do better by our constituents! Theres no reason why Congress cannot pass a long-term plan that would fix our aging infrastructure and boost our nations economic development. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-issues-statement-death-anthony-ware | Congresswoman Terri Sewell Issues Statement on the Death of Anthony Ware in Tuscaloosa | 2015-07-14 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell released the following statement in response to the death of Anthony Dewayne Ware, a Tuscaloosa resident who collapsed and died after being pepper sprayed during an arrest by Tuscaloosa police. My thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected by this unfortunate tragedy. Since Anthony Wares death, I have been in contact with local authorities to ensure that this case receives a thorough review and investigation. I join the communitys call for transparency and swift communication as we seek to learn more about the details surrounding the case. It is my hope that the video footage of the arrest and the autopsy report will shed new light on this horrible tragedy. I have been following this case very closely, and will continue to monitor new developments. ## | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-statement-nuclear-agreement-iran | Rep. Sewell Statement on the Nuclear Agreement with Iran | 2015-07-14 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell, a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after the United States reached a tentative nuclear agreement with Iran: I commend the efforts of President Obama, Secretary Kerry, Secretary Moniz and their team in securing a diplomatic agreement with Iran on its nuclear program. To be sure, it is not in the interest of the United States or its allies for Iran to ever develop a nuclear weapon. I agree with President Obama that no deal is better than a bad deal and it is through that prism that I will thoroughly review and evaluate this agreement. We cannot sign any agreement with Iran based on trust, nor should sanctions be loosed unless Iran meets its obligations and such compliance can be verified. We must remain ever vigilant in our insistence that Iran never reaches nuclear capability. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-calls-hr-5-reverse-robin-hood-approach-educational-funding | Rep. Sewell Calls H.R. 5 a Reverse-Robin Hood Approach to Educational Funding | 2015-07-08 | 2015 | 2015-07 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted against H.R. 5, the so called Student Success Act, saying the bill diverts much needed resources from poorer school districts to wealthier schools. I cannot support the reverse-Robin Hood approach to educational funding contained in H.R. 5, the so-called Student Success Act. This bill would divert Title 1 funds away from poor school districts to wealthier schools, further tilting the playing field against underprivileged children. More than 70 percent of students in my district live in poverty. And of the 26 school districts that serve my constituents, only 2 of them have a poverty rate of less than 56 percent. H.R. 5 would take more than $7 million from the highest need schools in my district and across Alabama, and redistribute that money better off communities. H.R. 5 neglects our sacred responsibility to ensure all children -- regardless of race, socioeconomic class, or disability -- are given the same opportunity to obtain a high-quality, public education. This methodology contained in this bill is backwards, and our children deserve so much better. Rep. Sewell spoke on the House floor about the need for a bipartisan bill to replace the flawed No Child Left Behind. Her speech can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Hn6Zd36ojHI ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-announces-37-million-funding-revitalize | Congresswoman Terri Sewell Announces $3.7 Million in Funding to Revitalize the Powell School Building | 2015-06-30 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Birmingham, AL Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded a $3.7 Million loan to the City of Birmingham to revitalize the Powell School Building. Integral Group, a local developer, will use the funds to acquire the building which is a vacant former schoolhouse. The building will be converted into 24 units of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The property is located in a state-designated redevelopment area in northeast of downtown Birmingham. I am thrilled that this award will play a vital role in redeveloping downtown Birmingham. This project will create opportunities for economic development and bring much needed attention to the area. I applaud the efforts of local leaders who have joined together in ensuring that we address deteriorating and blighting structures in the Magic City. Rep. Sewell said. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-terri-sewell-s-statement-supreme-court-s-ruling-marriage-equality | Rep. Terri Sewells Statement on Supreme Courts ruling on Marriage Equality | 2015-06-26 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality: "There are moments in American history when the trajectory of our nation shifts. Today, the Supreme Court's ruling affirmed the basic principle that our Constitution affords all Americans the same equal protections under the law, while also acknowledging our First Amendment right to maintain our own religious beliefs. Marriage licenses are an instrument of the state, and every person should have the rights afforded to all unions sanctioned by the state. This decision positively upholds the equal dignity of all Americans to enter and have the same rights afforded to every union of marriage." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-praises-supreme-court-decision-king-v-burwell | Rep. Sewell Praises Supreme Court Decision in King v. Burwell | 2015-06-25 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell released the following statement after the Supreme Court announced its decision in King v. Burwell: “The Supreme Court has once again affirmed that the Affordable Care Act is the law of the land. Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court is a victory for the 132,000 Alabamians who will be able to keep their health insurance, including 17,000 of my constituents in the 7th Congressional District. “The costs of providing care for those without insurance would have been shifted to taxpayers and hospitals had the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the plaintiffs. Our nation would have returned to the days when insurance companies were in charge of our health care system. The Affordable Care Act prevented insurers from discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions and from charging women more than men for the same coverage. “This lawsuit was another costly attempt to unravel the ACA, and to deny health coverage to the people who most need it. The law works, and the tax credits have helped millions of Americans in every state sign up for health insurance. It’s time to put an end to these pointless lawsuits that undermine this monumental law.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-adopts-rep-sewell-s-amendment-restore-funding-historic-civil | House Adopts Rep. Sewells Amendment to Restore Funding for Historic Civil Rights Sites | 2015-06-25 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell announced that her amendment to increase funding for the Civil Rights Initiative has been adopted into the Fiscal Year 2016 Interior Appropriations Bill. President Obama requested $40 million for the Civil Rights Initiative; however, the Interior Appropriations Bill for the 2016 Fiscal Year only contained $9.5 million in funding for these historic sites. The Sewell Amendment restored an additional $7 million in funding for the Civil Rights Initiative. National treasures like the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site tell the story of the struggle for civil rights. It is our obligation to preserve these sites for future generations. Reduced funding severely limits our ability to protect sites that belong to the National Register of Historic Places and National Historic Landmarks. My amendment: Restores $2.5 million for the rehabilitation and preservation of significant historic properties on the campuses of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Increases funding by $2.5 million for documenting and preserving civil rights history, and Increases funding by $2 million for competitive grants for underserved communities under the Historic Preservation Fund. On the 50th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, we should be investing in National Park Service sites associated with the Civil Rights Movement, not cutting necessary funding. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-introduces-voting-rights-advancement-act-2015 | Rep. Sewell Introduces the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 | 2015-06-24 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell announced that she is a lead sponsor of the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015, a bill that restores and advances the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by providing a modern day coverage test that will extend federal oversight to jurisdictions which have a history of voter suppression and protects vulnerable communities from discriminatory voting practices. There is an urgent need to protect the progress we have made since the courageous Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement dared to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge 50 years ago. We have inherited their legacy, and the fight to ensure that all Americans can participate in our political process continues today. The Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 takes an expansive view of the need to protect access to the voting booth, and will offer more voter protection to more people in more states. The updated coverage formula in this bill will ensure that states, like Alabama, are required to obtain federal preclearance for changes to voting practices and procedures that could have a discriminatory impact. Alabama has a storied history of voter suppression, and it is ironic that the same state that launched the voting rights movement has become fertile ground for its demise. On the eve of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, I urge my colleagues to recommit ourselves to restoring the promise of voter equality. We cannot silence any voices in our electorate. Our nation will cease to be a democracy if we limit access to voting. Background Information on the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 Today, Senators Patrick Leahy (VT), Dick Durbin (IL) and Chris Coons (DE) introduced a companion Senate bill. Joining Congresswoman Sewell as lead sponsors of House bill include Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), chairwoman of the Congressional Asian Pacific Caucus and Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (CA-38), chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Congressman John Lewis signed on as an original co-sponsor. Under … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-removal-confederate-flag-alabama-state | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement on the Removal of the Confederate Flag from the Alabama State Capitol Grounds | 2015-06-24 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after Governor Robert Bentley removed the Confederate flag from the grounds of the State Capitol in Montgomery, Alabama: The Confederate flag is a part of the South's past, and that is where it should remain. I applaud Governor Bentley for removing the Confederate flag from the grounds of the State Capitol. His actions demonstrate the need for us to close that chapter of our history. The Confederate flag represents the fight for slavery and is a symbol of hate, not heritage. Our state government should not sanction bigotry but promote unity and respect for the rights of all Alabamaians. It is time to leave behind racist vestiges of our past. "The removal of the confederate flag by Southern states, while lauded, is not the remedy for the hatred and racism that led to the fatal church shooting of nine African-Americans in Charleston, South Carolina. There is still much work to do in this nation's quest for racial equality. We must be vigilant on every level from how we educate our children, to removing discrepancies in sentencing laws, to eliminating the barriers that restrict access to voting. Lasting legal and political changes like these will lead to substantive behavioral changes." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-following-emanuel-ame-church-shooting-south | Rep. Sewell Issued Statement following the Emanuel AME Church Shooting in South Carolina | 2015-06-18 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the fatal shooting at a historic black church in Charleston, South Carolina. I am deeply saddened by the shooting at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Nine innocent people lost their lives in an unspeakable hate crime, and I mourn for their loss alongside our nation. Earlier this year, our country commemorated the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches, which demonstrated that the power of non-violence and collective action can achieve extraordinary social change. This fatal church shooting reminds us that there is still much work to be done. We must teach our children the lessons we learned from the past. Hatred and violence are never the answer. The strength of this nation lies in our diversity. We must respect our differences, and promote love and understanding over hatred and violence. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-give-president-obama-authority-negotiate-fair-trade | Rep. Sewell Votes to Give President Obama Authority to Negotiate Fair Trade Deals | 2015-06-18 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell reiterated her support for President Obama's trade agenda, and voted for a second time to give President Obama the authority he needs to negotiate agreements that expand fair trade. I continue to believe that President Obama should be given the same trade promotion authority as past Presidents. I trust that President Obama will do right by the American people, and the people of Alabama's 7th Congressional District. President Obama has our backs, and we should have his. President Obama has been unwavering in his support for promoting fair trade that protects American jobs and workers. I trust that President Obama will continue to protect the interests of the nation he has been elected to serve, and to uphold the values we hold dear. I am deeply disappointed that Congress has yet to reauthorize the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA). TAA is a vital lifeline for displaced workers that provides the needed resources for training, employment services, and relocation allowances. Globalization and automation -- irrespective of trade agreements -- have created a need for greater support services for workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. It is my hope that my colleagues will reconsider the TAA vote because I strongly believe that TPA and TAA go hand in hand. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-approve-president-obama-s-trade-agenda | Rep. Sewell Votes to Approve President Obamas Trade Agenda | 2015-06-12 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted to give President Obama the authority he needs to negotiate an agreement that expands opportunities for fair trade, but says that Congress should have done more to reauthorize a key federal assistance program for displaced workers. I cast my vote today in support of President Obama and American workers. I believe that this President should be given the same authorities that every other President has been given to negotiate trade agreements that benefit American workers, businesses, and our economy. While I share many of the concerns of my friends in labor regarding trade, I am convinced that President Obama is committed to safeguarding our shared values and protecting American jobs. Ultimately, I believe that President Obama will protect the best interests of the American people, and the folks I represent in Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The bottom line is that President Obama has our back, and we should have his too. I want to thank House leadership and the Obama administration for working with me to include critically important trade enforcement provisions in the trade package which will directly benefit the steel industry and the steel workers in my district. These measures will help protect American industries, particularly steel, from unfair trade practices and provide them with the necessary tools to seek timely and effective remedies. While not a cure all, these stronger enforcement provisions are now an essential part of the framework for negotiating any trade agreement going forward. My vote for the Trade Promotional Authority (TPA) ensures that President Obama has the necessary tools and Congressional oversight to negotiate and present Congress with comprehensive trade agreements that increase American exports and benefit American workers. In addition, my vote to reauthorize Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) is a vital lifeline for displaced workers that provides access to training, employment services, and relocation allowances. However, I am deeply disappointed… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-urges-house-leaders-adopt-stronger-trade-enforcement | Rep. Sewell Urges House Leaders to Adopt Stronger Trade Enforcement Provisions | 2015-06-09 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell urged House Leadership to adopt stronger trade enforcement laws to protect the American steel industry as a part of the trade legislation lawmakers are expected to vote on this week. My vote on trade legislation hinges on stronger trade enforcement provisions on anti-dumping and currency manipulation, which directly affect the steel industry in my district. Any trade legislation that comes before the House must contain provisions that protect American workers and industries against unfair competition and deceptive trading practices. At the very least, the House should adopt measures to timely consider anti-dumping and countervailing claims before the International Trade Commission (ITC), and provide the Department of Commerce with the flexibility to use prices that are not distorted when calculating dumping, said Rep. Sewell. The steel industry supports an estimated 63,000 jobs across Alabama, and is one of the largest employers in the 7th Congressional District of Alabama. We cannot afford to lose even one job because other countries are not playing by the rules. One-sided trade practices like dumping and currency manipulation are hurting American businesses, particularly our steel industry, and the U.S. trade remedy laws only correct the problem after the fact. By the time that the process has been completed, American workers have already been laid off and our businesses have already lost their market share. American industries should not be forced to compete on an uneven playing field. Unfair trade practices hurt our domestic economy and our competitiveness abroad. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-and-alabama-state-representative-darrio | Rep. Terri Sewell and Alabama State Representative Darrio Melton Issue Joint Statement in Opposition to the Renaming of the Edmund Pettus Bridge | 2015-06-04 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Alabama State Representative Darrio Melton (D-67) issued the following statement in opposition to S.J.R 103, a resolution to rename the Edmund Pettus Bridge the Journey to Freedom Bridge. The Alabama State Senate passed the resolution on June 3, 2015. I am strongly opposed to changing the name of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The historical irony is an integral part of the complicated history of Selma -- a city known for its pivotal role in Civil War and the civil rights movement. The bridge is an iconic symbol of the struggle for voting rights in America, and its name is as significant as its imposing structure. Changing the name of the bridge would change the course of history and compromise the historical integrity of the voting rights movement. As inheritors of the legacy surrounding the historical events that took place in Selma, we must safeguard that history--good and bad and resist attempts to rewrite it, Rep. Sewell said. "This is not only a matter for the people of Selma to decide together but it's bigger than just us. This is more of a global decision considering positions from those of various ages as well as economic and social backgrounds. I understand the historical irony of the bridge being named after a former U.S. senator, member of the confederate, and Klan leader, but what was birthed on that bridge has become a world symbol of democracy and the Voting Rights Movement and that is a beautiful testimony. We have no choice but to embrace not erase, our history and heritage as a city. While the bridge carries memories of division, it also holds promises of hope and freedom. Currently it symbolizes our opportunity to move into the future with a new perspective of inclusion. There is no reason to hastily change what has become the cradle of democracy," Rep. Melton said. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-leads-bipartisan-effort-help-preserve-timberland-tax | Rep. Sewell Leads Bipartisan Effort to Help Preserve Timberland Tax Provisions | 2015-06-03 | 2015 | 2015-06 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell helped lead a bipartisan effort to encourage House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Paul Ryan and Ranking Member Sander Levin to retain the current tax treatment applicable to timberland owners and investors as the Committee examines ways to modernize the tax code. Rep. Sewell worked closely with lead Republican sponsor Rep. Dan Benishek (MI-1) and was joined by colleagues Austin Scott (R-GA-8) and Kurt Schrader (D-OR-5) on a letter sent today to Chairman Ryan and Levin urging the Committee to retain the current timberland tax provisions in any tax reform initiatives. The letter was signed by 80 members of Congress. We often take our forests and the numerous benefits they provide for granted. It is especially important now, as we recover from the Great Recession, to preserve the timberland tax provisions to help hundreds of rural communities still struggling to rebound, Rep. Sewell said. We urge the leadership of the House Ways and Means Committee to recognize the importance of our private forests by preserving existing timberland tax provisions in any tax reform package. These provisions are critical in order to help retain the 2.4 million jobs and $102 billion annually our private forests contribute to the national economy. In Alabama, those forests contribute $12 billion to the states economy and support more than 140,000 jobs. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-judge-fuller-s-resignation | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement on Judge Fullers Resignation | 2015-05-29 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement in response to reports that Judge Mark Fuller would resign from office effective August 1st. News of Judge Fuller's impending resignation is a welcome outcome to a very painful breach of the public trust. His resignation will be the culmination of a drawn out process that was woefully unnecessary. The public trust was violated the moment his wife phoned the police. Justice was not served. We sent the wrong message to victims of domestic violence by allowing a federal judge to collect a paycheck -- without managing a caseload -- and ultimately having his record expunged. Fuller failed to uphold our most fundamental values. Perhaps the only consolation is that he has chosen to spare his family and our nation of the expense of a drawn out impeachment process. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-rep-sewell-observance-memorial-day | Statement from Rep. Sewell in Observance of Memorial Day | 2015-05-22 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell released the following statement in honor of Memorial Day: This Memorial Day, our nation will join as one to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives defending our freedom. We should never take for granted the opportunities and liberties we enjoy as Americans due to their sacrifice. Our freedom was made possible by the heroism of those who served in our armed forces. As we honor those who lost their lives, we must also be thankful for the valor shown by those who currently serve in uniform. Supporting our veterans and their families is one of our nation's most fundamental responsibilities. Not one of our heroes should return home only to struggle to find a job or receive quality healthcare. The sacrifice these men and women have made for us requires us to do no less. Let us never forget the men and women who so bravely fought for our freedom. Their legacy will live on in our hearts and memories. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-commerce-secretary-attend-rep-sewell-s-west-alabama-business | U.S. Commerce Secretary to Attend Rep. Sewells West Alabama Business Roundtable | 2015-05-21 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell announced that U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker, a member of President Obamas cabinet, will visit Western Alabama to meet representatives from key industries and promote economic development across the state. I am pleased that Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker has accepted my invitation to come to Alabama. Alabama is a thriving hub for agriculture and manufacturing. The purpose of the West Alabama Business Roundtable is to explore ways Alabama businesses can continue to expand and prosper, such as increased access to capital, promoting private-public partnerships, and opening new markets for exports, said Rep. Sewell. "I look forward to meeting with Representative Sewell and local business leaders to discuss how the Department of Commerce can support economic growth in communities across Alabama," said Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. "We will also talk about the ways in which the Obama Administration's trade agenda will benefit Alabama's businesses and workers. The state exported $19.5B in goods last year, which supported more than 95,000 jobs. New trade agreements will help Alabama companies build on that success by creating opportunities to access some of the world's fastest-growing markets, such as the Asia-Pacific region." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-two-month-extension-highway-trust-fund | Rep. Sewell Votes for Two-Month Extension of Highway Trust Fund | 2015-05-19 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell voted for H.R. 2353, the Two-Month Highway Trust Fund Extension, but added that the short-term extension fails to address the urgent need to fix our nation's crumbling infrastructure. The Highway Trust Fund Extension is nothing more than a Band-Aid. It's disappointing that Congress is no closer to drafting a long-term solution to invest in our nation's roads, bridges, and rails than we were this time last year. Our nation's investment in infrastructure is woefully inadequate to the detriment of our constituents. In Alabama, deteriorating roads cost motorists approximately $1.2 billion a year. Across our country, an estimated one in three fatal traffic accidents is caused by roads that are in poor or mediocre condition, and the American Society of Civil Engineers estimates that one out of every nine bridges in the U.S. is structurally deficient. By building the infrastructure of tomorrow, we would also create thousands of good-paying jobs that help more hard-working Americans earn a living. We must do better. There's no reason why Congress cannot pass a long-term plan that would fix our aging infrastructure and boost our nation's economic development. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-congressional-oversight-iran-agreement | Rep. Sewell Votes for Congressional Oversight of Iran Agreement | 2015-05-14 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after voting in support of H.R. 1191, the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015. The Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 struck the appropriate balance between giving the Obama Administration the flexibility it needs to negotiate for a nuclear-free Iran, and granting Congress the proper authority to review a final agreement that would waive or suspend sanctions against Iran. Resolving the nuclear standoff with Iran is of grave importance for our nation's security and for Israel, our strongest ally in the Middle East. We must make every effort to ensure that Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon. The Senate has already passed this bipartisan bill, and it will now be sent to the President for his signature. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-us-trade-rep-froman-and-secretary-canfield-highlight-alabama | Rep. Sewell, U.S. Trade Rep. Froman, and Secretary Canfield to Highlight Alabama Exports | 2015-05-11 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell announced that U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman, the chief United States official on international trade and a member of President Obamas cabinet, will visit Alabama to meet with a diverse range of local leaders and to discuss the role exports play in the states economy as well as opportunities to expand trade. Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield will join the Alabama Trade Summit to highlight the importance of exports for the states economy. I am thrilled to welcome U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman to Alabama where he will meet with local leaders from our agriculture and manufacturing sectors, said Rep. Terri Sewell. Exports help drive Alabamas economy. Alabama businesses exported $19.5 billion in merchandise last year, which supported more than 95,000 jobs. Access to foreign markets and fair trade policies that benefit American workers are integral, necessary components that will help Alabama exporters to continue to thrive and spur new job growth. Increasing Made-in-America exports is a key priority of President Obamas Middle Class Economics agenda, and Alabama is an exporting powerhouse, said U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman. I appreciate Congresswoman Sewells invitation to be here and see first-hand how Alabamas exports are supporting well-paying jobs all over this state and discuss how we can unlock more economic opportunities to benefit workers, farmers, and businesses. Our state strategic growth plan, Accelerate Alabama, has identified exports as an engine of job creation, and the Alabama Department of Commerce supports the goal of expanding exports through a number of initiatives and by leading trade and business development missions to countries around the world. Secretary Canfield said. "Its a priority for us to connect Alabama businesses to potential investors and partners in the global market because those connections trigger growth and create prosperity at home. Well continue to work hard to expand Alabamas exports to destinations a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-renews-call-compassionate-release-larry-langford | Rep. Sewell Renews Call for Compassionate Release of Larry Langford | 2015-05-05 | 2015 | 2015-05 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell renewed her call for former Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford to receive a compassionate release from federal prison. Justice should be fair, but merciful. Larry Langfords health is continuing to deteriorate, and I strongly believe that he should be granted a compassionate release. I wrote a letter in support of his previous request for a reduced sentence that was unfortunately denied, however, this has not deterred me from pressing ahead with this important issue on behalf of Mayor Langford, his family and the greater Birmingham community. I am working with Mayor Langfords family to arrange a meeting with the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Charles Samuels, Jr., and U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch in order to advocate for his release. Mayor Langford should be at home with his family. He poses no threat to our community, and should be released given his rapidly declining health. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-named-vice-chair-bipartisan-congressional-hbcu-caucus | Rep. Sewell Named Vice Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus | 2015-04-29 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after being named the Vice Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus: Historically Black Colleges and Universities created and fostered a generation of African American professionals who would have otherwise been denied an education due to segregation. HBCUs still play a vital role in educating our youth, and the primary purpose of the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus is to help these storied institutions continue to flourish, said Rep. Sewell. My district is home to some of the most prominent HBCUs in the country, and I am proud to join the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus as Vice Chair. The Bipartisan HBCU Caucus will promote and protect the interests of HBCUs by creating a national dialogue, educating Members of Congress and their staffs about the issues impacting HBCUs, drafting meaningful bipartisan legislation to address the needs of HBCUs, and supporting students and graduates of HBCUs by increasing access and career opportunities. The Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus is chaired by Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) and Congressman Bradley Byrne (AL-1). Congresswoman Sewell and Congressman Bennie Thompson (MS-2) are the Vice Chairs of the Caucus. Current Caucus members include: Reps. Alma Adams (D-NC), Bradley Byrne (R-AL), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Jim Clyburn (D-SC), Cedric Richmond (D-LA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), G.K. Butterfield (D-NC), Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX), Elijah Cummings (D-MD), David Price (D-NC), Mark Walker (R-NC), Frederica Wilson (D-FL), Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), Mo Brooks (R-AL), John Lewis (D-GA), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Randy Forbes (R-VA), Brenda Lawrence (D-MI), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Stacey Plaskett (D-VI), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Chaka Fattah (D-PA), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Alcee Hastings (D-FL), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Corrine Brown (D-FL), Marcia Fudge (D-OH), G… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-named-2015-woman-year-metro-birmingham-branch | Congresswoman Terri Sewell Named 2015 Woman of the Year by Metro Birmingham Branch of NAACP | 2015-04-28 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Birmingham, A Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) was named the 2015 Woman of the Year by the Metro Birmingham Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Rep. Sewell accepted the award at the NAACPs 15th annual Salute to Wonderful Outstanding Women (WOW) awards ceremony on Sunday, April 26th. Each year, the WOW awards highlight the leadership, accomplishments, and outstanding service contributions of women in Metropolitan Birmingham. I am deeply honored to receive this award during this commemorative, 15th anniversary of the Salute to Wonderful Outstanding Women. The NAACP has long been at the forefront of the struggle for equality, and as a benefactor of the sacrifices of the courageous foot soldiers of the voting rights movement I am committed to ensuring that we never forget their contributions to this nation. Id like to thank the NAACP for this honor and I commend them for continuing the legacy of leading the fight for equality and justice for all. Rep. Sewell said. "Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell is a true champion for Voting Rights and the empowerment of her constituents. She is relentless in her quest to make the lives of the families of district seven better than she found them and she leads the charge for the full restoration of the Voting Rights Act. The Metro Birmingham Branch NAACP is proud to have her as our 2015 Woman of the Year for her outstanding service and exemplary commitment," Hezekiah Jackson IV, President of the Metro Birmingham Branch NAACP said. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sewell-host-annual-congressional-art-competition-featuring | Congresswoman Sewell to Host Annual Congressional Art Competition Featuring Artwork of Students from the 7th Congressional District | 2015-04-23 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Tuscaloosa, AL Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), in partnership with the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, will host the 7th Congressional Districts Annual Congressional Art Competition on Saturday, April 25, 2015. This years theme is, An Artistic Discovery: Portraits of the 7th Congressional District. Each year, the competition features pieces from students enrolled at high schools around the 7th Congressional District. Rep. Sewell will announce this years winner at a reception immediately following final judging for this years finalists. Each year, the Congressional Art Competition serves as a platform for high school students across the 7th Congressional District to highlight their artistic talents. I am extremely proud of this years contestants, and its inspiring to witness their creativity and raw talent. It is critically important that we create opportunities that encourage and uplift the individual gifts of our children. I am thankful to have the opportunity to work with the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center in Tuscaloosa to showcase each students artwork, said Rep. Sewell. "The Congressional Art Competition is a wonderful opportunity to encourage and cultivate the talent of young people in our state while providing a sense of accomplishment. Congresswoman Sewell's sponsorshipof this program is a great example of dedication bothto the arts and the future of our state and country within our government. The Arts Council is extremely pleased to host this competition in Tuscaloosa," Sharron Rudowski, Director of Educational Programs, The Arts Council. What: 2015 Congressional Art Competition, "An Artistic Discovery: Portraits of the 7th Congressional District When:Saturday April 25, 2015 Time: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, Arts Council Gallery, 620 Greensboro Ave., Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 About the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center The Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center (CAC) is a hub for the arts in Tuscaloosa, managed andmaintained by The Arts Council. Th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-congratulates-loretta-lynch-her-historic-confirmation-us | Rep. Sewell Congratulates Loretta Lynch on Her Historic Confirmation as U.S. Attorney General | 2015-04-23 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed Loretta Lynch as Attorney General: I am proud to congratulate Loretta Lynch on her confirmation as U.S. Attorney General. Her confirmation is a historic step for our nation and a testament to how far we have come. Ms. Lynch will undoubtedly lead the U.S. Justice Department with the same conviction for justice that she has shown as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and with the same dignity and grace she displayed throughout the confirmation process. I would also like to thank Eric Holder for his stalwart leadership as Attorney General. Mr. Holder broke new ground as the first African-American to lead the Justice Department, and he has shown tremendous courage confronting social injustice. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/protecting-cyber-networks-act-passes-house | The Protecting Cyber Networks Act Passes the House | 2015-04-22 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the House passed the Protecting Cyber Networks Act (H.R. 1560), a bipartisan bill that she cosponsored to encourage federal agencies and private businesses to share vital information about cyber threats and attacks. There has been a sharp increase in the number of cyberattacks that jeopardize our sensitive personal and financial information, hurt our economy, or threaten our national security. This bill addresses this emerging threat by creating an environment where companies voluntarily share information with each other and the federal government without compromising the privacy of American citizens. Fostering a collaborative environment helps American businesses defend themselves against harmful cyberattacks and better protect consumer information. Additionally, increasing coordination with federal agencies helps improve the governments ability to protect our nation against foreign cyber threats. This bill passed in the House with strong bipartisan support, and I hope that my colleagues in the Senate will work closely together to craft a bill that best ensures our collective national interests. Rep. Sewell spoke on the House floor in support of the bill Wednesday afternoon. Click here to view her speech: http://1.usa.gov/1DOPW0e Highlights of the Bill This bill includes many privacy protections that havent been present in previous cyber legislation, including a requirement that requires the private sector and the government to both scrub private information before sharing information. Additionally, this bill would create a civilian portal, no direct sharing with the NSA, establish a very narrow set of government use provisions, and establish a clear legislative prohibition against using the provisions of this bill to authorize surveillance activities. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-unveil-stronger-consumer-borrower-protections | Rep. Sewell to Unveil Stronger Consumer Borrower Protections | 2015-04-16 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell will soon introduce legislation to better protect consumers as a follow-up to President Obamas March visit to Birmingham where he outlined the stronger need for payday lending requirements. Today, Congresswoman Sewell outlined the urgent need for reform on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. A video of her speech is available online at https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/videos. Below is the text of her floor speech: Thank you Mr./Madam Speaker, Today I rise to talk about the critical need for stronger oversight of payday lenders. In March, I welcomed President Obama to the City of Birmingham in my district, where he highlighted our nations economic recovery and put a spotlight on the area that needed most improvement. The President highlighted the urgent need for better regulation of the payday lending industry the very same day that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau unveiled proposals to rein in this loosely-regulated industry. I hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting the CFPBs efforts to ensure that these products help -- not harm -- consumers. The payday lending and title loan industry must take steps to ensure that borrowers understand the loan terms and have the resources to pay them back. In my district, the proliferation of payday lending is really unacceptable. On every corner, you will find a payday lender. In fact the President quoted that there were more payday lending institutions in my district than there were McDonalds. These borrowers are disproportionately African American or Latino two communities that were severely impacted by the predatory lending practices and far too many of these borrowers find themselves trapped in a cycle of debt. In the coming weeks, I plan to introduce a bill and to spearhead efforts led by consumer industry groups to protect consumers from predatory lending. I ask my colleagues to join me. These good people are my constituents, and not this industrys prey. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/preserving-access-manufactured-housing-act-passes-house | The Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act Passes in the House | 2015-04-14 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act (H.R. 650), a bill she co-sponsored to preserve critical access to financing for manufactured homes for low-income and rural families, passed the U.S. House of Representatives. Manufactured homes provide quality, affordable housing for roughly 22 million Americans. More than 300,000 Alabama families live in manufactured homes, which accounts for over 14 percent of the state's available housing stock. The Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act ensures that manufactured homes remain a viable, affordable housing option for families in rural, distressed and underserved areas. Manufactured homes loans are considered personal property loans, which distinguishes them from traditional mortgages. The Dodd Frank Act was meant to enhance consumer protections, rather than limit consumer access. This bill corrects an unintended consequence of Dodd Frank and makes a simple but necessary adjustment to enable lenders to meet the demand for affordable, responsible mortgage loans for manufactured homes while preserving important consumer protections. This bill leaves untouched important protections established under the Dodd Frank Act. Consumers will continue to have a wide range of mortgage protections, including the Qualified Mortgage Standards Ability to Repay requirement, the prohibition on steering incentives, the prohibition against steering a consumer to a predatory loan, loan term disclosures, the prohibition on mandatory arbitration, as well as other state and federal laws. Without this bill, working families and retirees with limited credit or fixed incomes will be forced into more expensive housing options. I am proud of the bipartisan support the Preserving Access to Manufactured Housing Act received in the House. Todays vote underscores our commitment to preserving affordable housing choices for all Americans. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-condemns-dismissal-battery-charges-against-judge-fuller | Rep. Sewell Condemns Dismissal of Battery Charges Against Judge Fuller | 2015-04-14 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after a judge dismissed a misdemeanor battery charge against U.S. District Judge Mark Fuller. Judge Fuller was arrested last August after attacking his wife in an Atlanta hotel room. I am deeply disturbed that the charges against Judge Mark Fuller have been dismissed. There should never have been an agreement to expunge his record, nor should he be allowed to remain on the federal bench. Our society is sending the wrong message about domestic violence to perpetrators by allowing a federal judge who has sworn to uphold the values we hold dear to continue to serve in any capacity. His punishment must reflect the seriousness of the crime, and any recommendations to the 11th Circuit Judicial Council that fall short of impeachment are inexcusable. I am again calling on the House Judiciary Committee to initiate impeachment proceedings should the Judicial Council decline to make such a recommendation. Judge Fuller must be immediately removed from the bench. He has irrevocably violated the sacred trust placed in him, and Congress must send a strong message that his actions are beneath the seat he holds. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-introduces-expanded-child-care-credits-working-families | Rep. Sewell Introduces Expanded Child Care Credits for Working Families | 2015-04-14 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell introduced the Helping Working Families Afford Child Care Act of 2015 (H.R. 1780), to make quality child care more affordable for millions of working-class families. Access to affordable, quality child care should not be a financial hurdle that proves too high for working families to cross. Families living below the federal poverty level spend, on average, one-third of their income on child care expenses. The Helping Working Families Afford Child Care Act would make child care more affordable for millions of working parents by increasing child care tax credits and making the credit fully refundable for low-income families. Expanding child care tax credits will boost our economy, and provide working parents with the security they need to care for their families. I look forward to working with my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to provide much needed relief for working families. Highlights of the Bill The Helping Working Families Afford Child Care Act of 2015 will modernize the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), enacted in 1976, by expanding the size and scope of child care tax credits. The Helping Working Families Afford Child Care Act increases the amount of eligible child care expenses to $8,000 for one child or $16,000 for two or more children, up from $3,000 for one child and $6,000 for two or more children under the CDCTC. Working class families would be eligible for tax credits of $2,800 or $5,600, depending on the number of children for whom they incur qualifying expenses. Working parents who currently receive no benefits from existing child care tax credits -- because their income is too low -- would be eligible for a federal refund under the Helping Working Families Afford Child Care Act. U.S. Senator Patty Murray (WA), the Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP) Committee, introduced the companion bill in the Senate. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-sewell-and-byrne-reintroduce-workforce-development-tax-credit-act | Reps. Sewell and Byrne Reintroduce the Workforce Development Tax Credit Act | 2015-04-14 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-7) and Congressman Bradley Byrne (AL-1) reintroduced the Workforce Development Tax Credit Act (H.R. 1781), a bipartisan bill that prepares our workforce for manufacturing jobs by providing federal tax credits for businesses that offer apprenticeship programs and additional tax credits for companies that hire apprentices. The Manufacturing Institute says nearly 3.5 million manufacturing jobs will need to be filled over the next decade; however, approximately 2 million of those jobs will go unfilled due to a skilled labor shortage. A strong manufacturing sector is crucial for our nations economic growth and prosperity. The Workforce Development Tax Credit Act encourages businesses to work with community colleges and universities to develop apprenticeship programs that will lead to more skilled workers. Emphasizing skills training will enable our country to maintain its competitive edge, and help bring more Americans into the middle class. I am proud to sponsor this bill with Bradley Byrne, my friend and fellow Alabamian, and I look forward to its passage, said Rep. Sewell. The workforce needs in the United States are rapidly changing, and skills training is becoming more important than ever before. Thats why I am proud to join my friend and colleague Terri Sewell in introducing the Workforce Development Tax Credit Act. By encouraging businesses to partner with community colleges and universities to advance workforce training initiatives, we can help connect Americans with the skills they need to get a job and meet growing industry demands, Rep. Byrne. "The Workforce Development Tax Credit Act is in total alignment with the goals of the Alabama Workforce Investment Board and with the recommendations made by the Alabama Workforce Council regarding public/private partnerships," said George Clark, President of Manufacture Alabama, Chairman of the Alabama Workforce Investment Board, and Vice-Chairman of the Alabama Workforce Council. Reps. Chris Van Hollen (MD-8), … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-welcome-nasa-astronaut-carver-elementary-and | Congresswoman Terri Sewell to Welcome NASA Astronaut to Carver Elementary and Arts Magnet School as he "lands" in Montgomery | 2015-04-08 | 2015 | 2015-04 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | MONTGOMERY, AL On Thursday, April 9th Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will welcome National Aeronautics and Space Administration Astronaut (NASA) Dr. Scott D. Tingle (Capt., U.S. Navy) to Carver Elementary and Arts Magnet School in Montgomery. Upon his "landing," Captain Tingle will make a special presentation to 5th graders and the entire student body will host a welcoming parade. "I am extremely proud that the students of Carver Elementary have been selected to take part in this unique experience. Captain Scott Tingle's visit will not only serve as a memorable moment for local students, it will spark their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Careers. I am pleased to welcome Captain Tingle to Montgomery, and I hope his visit will have a lasting impact on the students of Carver Elementary," Rep. Sewell said. WHO: Congresswoman Terri Sewell WHAT: The "Landing" of NASA Astronaut Dr. Scott D. Tingle (Captain, U.S. Navy) WHEN: ThursdayApril 9, 2015, at 11 a.m. WHERE: Carver Elementary and Arts Magnet School,3100 Mobile, Montgomery, AL 36108 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-praises-unanimous-passage-cyber-security-bill-out-committee | Rep. Sewell Praises Unanimous Passage of Cyber Security Bill out of Committee | 2015-03-26 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence referred H.R. 1560, the Protecting Cyber Networks Act, to the full House of Representatives: Today, I am proud to join my colleagues on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in unanimously passing the Protecting Cyber Networks Act, a bipartisan bill that encourages federal agencies and private businesses to share critically important information about cyber threats and attacks. There has been a rapid increase in the number of cyberattacks, which costs our economy billions of dollars each year, threatens our national security, and jeopardizes every Americans sensitive personal and financial information. This bill takes a very important step towards addressing this emerging threat without unduly compromising the privacy of American citizens. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation when it comes to the House floor so that we can better promote our collective national interests. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-travel-birmingham-president-obama | Rep. Sewell to Travel to Birmingham with President Obama | 2015-03-26 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement ahead of President Obamas trip to the City of Birmingham, Alabama, where she will join him as he discusses efforts his Administration has made to create a safer financial system that protects American families and creates a strong economy. The President is expected to discuss the economy, payday lending and the success of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): President Obama is a staunch advocate for a strong financial system that provides greater transparency and accountability for all Americans. Under his administration the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has helped consumers recover more than $5.3 billion by ending unfair and abusive practices. I hosted CFPB Director Richard Cordray in Birmingham for their first Field Hearing on Payday Lending. While I understand there is a real need for emergency credit, I strongly believe consumer protections are needed to regulate this industry. The Presidents visit to the City brings the national spotlight to the State of Alabama, a state with one of the highest concentrations of payday lenders. Thus, it is fitting that President Obama will travel to Birmingham to speak about the progress we have made to build a safer and stronger financial system that protects families from the abuses which led the economy to near collapseand his commitment to safeguarding that progress. America has a lot of work to do to improve our economy. The City of Birmingham and the State of Alabama have the tools and the leadership needed to create solid job growth and make the economic recovery a reality for those struggling families who have yet to feel its full effects. As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I will continue to work with my colleagues to promote better financial practices that protect consumers, strengthen our economy and stimulate economic growth. I welcome President Obama to Birmingham for his second visit to Alabama this month. His selection of Lawson State Community … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-votes-reform-flawed-medicare-physician-payment-system | Rep. Sewell Votes to Reform Flawed Medicare Physician Payment System | 2015-03-26 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted in favor of H.R. 2, the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, which reforms the flawed Medicare physician payment system. Today, I joined 392 of my colleagues to pass the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, a historic victory for our nations children, seniors, and working class families. This bipartisan agreement is a permanent fix to Medicares Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR), which determines physician reimbursement rates, and ensures that our nations most vulnerable populations continue to have access to quality, essential healthcare and medical services. There are many reasons to celebrate passage of this bill, particularly its inclusion of critical funding for community health centers and initiatives that help low-income seniors pay their Medicare Part-B premiums. While I had hoped for a longer extension, the bill does include a two-year extension of the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), providing continued affordable coverage for the families who depend on this vital program. I hope todays victory is an indicator that House Democrats and Republicans can work together to tackle other issues of critical importance for all Americans. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-applauds-scotus-decision-reject-alabama-s-redistricting-plan | Rep. Sewell Applauds SCOTUS Decision to Reject Alabamas Redistricting Plan | 2015-03-25 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell applauded the Supreme Courts ruling in Alabama Legislative Black Caucus v. Alabama, saying that Alabamas redistricting plan unfairly diluted the impact of black voters. Fifty years ago today, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke from the steps of the Alabama Capitol to appeal to the conscience of our nation and to seek the right to vote for all Americans. Todays ruling by the Supreme Court honors Kings legacy by rejecting a discriminatory redistricting plan that denied black voters equal representation. By condensing black voters in large geographic districts, the State of Alabama unfairly diluted their influence in other parts of the state. Redistricting should never be used as a political tool that silences parts of our electorate. Our nation was made great by the fundamental belief that every citizen is entitled to the right to vote, and any attempt to circumvent that principle strikes at the heart of our democracy. This case further highlights the need to restore Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, and ensure that the State of Alabama is included under the new coverage formula. The struggle to ensure that all Americans have equal access to the ballot box continues, and I urge my colleagues in Congress to work together to reinstate the federal voter protections afforded by the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-escorted-royal-couple-during-mlk-memorial-tour | Rep. Sewell Escorted Royal Couple during MLK Memorial Tour | 2015-03-18 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell escorted the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall around the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial during the royal couples visit to Washington, D.C. "It was an honor to meet the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, and to escort them as they visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Earlier this month our nation celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches, and Dr. King was an instrumental part of the ongoing struggle for equal rights. "The civil rights movement was a defining point in our nations history. Dr. King was a visionary whose leadership helped our nation shed its dark past and move towards a brighter future. I am pleased that Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla were able to visit the King Memorial during their royal visit." Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rep. John Lewis, Harry Johnson, Sr., (President and CEO of the Memorial Foundation), and Dr. Ed Jackson, Jr. (Executive Architect of the MLK Memorial) also served as royal guides. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-s-bill-honor-foot-soldiers-voting-rights-movement-signed-law | Rep. Sewells Bill to Honor Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement Signed into Law | 2015-03-18 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | "As President Obama said, the Americans who undertook this journey 'gave courage to millions.' Undeterred and undaunted, more marchers heeded Dr. Martin Luther Kings call to come to Selma and join the movement for voting equality. This nation should never forget those who marched, prayed and died in the pursuit of civil and voting rights. "The Congressional Gold medal is a great reminder of the power of ordinary Americans to collectively achieve extraordinary social change. Their stories and courage should not be lost on the pages of American history." About the Congressional Gold Medal Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions. The medal was first awarded in 1776 by the second Continental Congress to General George Washington. About the March from Selma to Montgomery in 1965 Civil rights activists were brutally attacked by Alabama state troopers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma on March 7, 1965. This day, now known as Bloody Sunday, was the first of three planned, peaceful protests from Selma to Montgomery. Nearly 2,500 Foot Soldiers led by Dr. Martin Luther King attempted a second march two days later on March 9, 1965, now known as Turnaround Tuesday. An estimated 8,000 Foot Soldiers left Selma on March 21, 1965, and successfully marched to Montgomery to peacefully protest restrictive voting laws that prevented African-Americans from voting in the South. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-congratulates-miles-college-president-naciqi-reappointment | Rep. Sewell Congratulates Miles College President on NACIQI Reappointment | 2015-03-17 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi announced that she reappointed Miles College President George T. French to the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI). In a phone call earlier today, Congresswoman Sewell congratulated Dr. French on his reappointment. "Dr. French is a distinguished educator and civic leader whose vision has guided Miles College for the past 10 years. His reappointment to the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity is a testament to his commitment to our nations students. In his role, Dr. French will continue to ensure that post-secondary schools receiving taxpayer dollars provide a quality education and are in full compliance with accountability standards. "Miles College is one of the crown jewels of higher education in the 7th Congressional District. I cannot be more pleased that Dr. French will continue his work on the NACIQI, and am thankful that Leader Pelosi appointed him for another term." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-attend-netanyahu-address | Rep. Sewell To Attend Netanyahu Address | 2015-03-03 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following release to confirm her attendance at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address before a joint session of Congress: Israel is our closest ally in the Middle East and, as a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, it is especially important for me to hear Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assessment of the growing crisis in the region. I strongly disagree with Speaker Boehner's decision to circumvent the White House. This is not a partisan event, and I am deeply concerned that the Prime Minister was invited to speak to both Chambers of Congress on the eve of the Israeli elections. Nevertheless, I believe it is important to hear from America's closest partner in the Middle East. The purpose of this event should be to strengthen the unbreakable bond that ties our two nations, not to highlight any divisions that fall along party lines. I hope that today's speech does not set a precedent, and that the Speaker works more closely with the Administration to ensure this does not happen again. Rabbi Jonathan Miller of Temple Emanu-El in Birmingham is Congresswoman Sewell's guest for today's speech. ### For more information about our releases, please contact Deshundra Jefferson (Washington, DC) at 202.225.2665 or Aneesa McMillan (Birmingham) at 205.254.1960. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senate-passes-gold-medal-bill-voting-rights-marchers | Senate Passes Gold Medal Bill for Voting Rights Marchers | 2015-03-03 | 2015 | 2015-03 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell applauded the Senate's unanimous passage of S517, a bipartisan bill she introduced in the House to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the courageous Foot Soldiers whose perilous journey from Selma to Montgomery led to the passage of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. I am deeply humbled by the strong, bipartisan support this bill received in both the House and the Senate. Awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement will serve as an enduring reminder of the blood, courage and sacrifice those marchers faced in the pursuit of equality. The Edmund Pettus Bridge was the portal through which America left its dark past and marched to a brighter future. This nation should never forget the sacrifices those who refused to accept second-class citizenship and demanded that our nation live up to the very ideals on which it was founded, said Rep. Sewell. I would like to thank Representative Martha Roby, Senator Jeff Sessions, Senator Corey Booker, and all of the members of the Alabama Congressional delegation for standing with me in support of this bill. I am pleased that Sen. Shelby, Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, and his committee members have unanimously approved the Congressional Gold Medal for those who marched for voting rights in Selma. I am also grateful for the work of Reps. Roby and Sewell and our entire Alabama delegation for their work in the House. Fifty years ago, it was a time of tension and real danger. The marchers courageously moved forward on the Edmund Pettus Bridge to demand the voting rights to which they were entitled. They were attacked for doing so. This dramatic event captured the attention of the nation, led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act, and was a key event in ending the systematic denial of the right of African-American citizens to vote in many areas. Those who marched on that day deserve the high honor of the Congressional Gold Medal, which is reserved for exceptional achievements, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-launches-oral-history-project | Rep. Sewell Launches Oral History Project | 2015-02-26 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-7) is launching an Oral History Project to preserve the legacies of the brave men and women who took part in the marches from Selma to Montgomery in 1965. This is a year-long partnership with Alabama State University, Miles College, and the University of Alabama. College student volunteers will identify potential interview subjects, conduct video interviews, and archive footage. The Oral History Project is an excellent opportunity for these students to connect with their local communities and learn about Alabama's rich civil rights history while preserving it for future generations. This initiative will honor the bravery and courage of our Foot Soldiers. As we approach the 50th commemoration of Bloody Sunday, we must recommit to never forgetting the contributions of those before us. This endeavor will preserve the story of America's Civil Rights District, said Rep. Sewell. I am thrilled that students from Alabama State University, Miles College, and the University of Alabama will have the opportunity to connect with their local communities and learn about Alabama's rich civil rights history, all while preserving the history of voting rights for future generations. The Voting Rights Movement that led to the Selma to Montgomery historic march is a dynamic freedom movement that -- 50 years later -- must not only be celebrated, but researched and taught to ensure that our country continues to holds true to its democratic principles of freedom and justice. Alabama State Universitycongratulates Rep. Sewell for her work to preserve and protect this history that will be gathered from those who were on the front lines of this non-violent movement that resulted in national voting rights legislation for all Americans, said Dr. Janice Franklin, Dean of Alabama State's Levi Watkins Learning Center. Students from Miles College have always been at the forefront in the fight for civil rights. We are thrilled for the opportunity to participate in the recording of the accounts of va… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-seeks-strengthen-voting-rights-amendment-act-2015 | Rep. Sewell Seeks to Strengthen the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2015 | 2015-02-13 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2015 was reintroduced in the House of Representatives: I am pleased that both Democrats and Republicans recognize the need to strengthen federal voter protections, however, I am deeply concerned that in its current form, the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2015 would not cover the State of Alabama under the bill's new Section 5 coverage formula. The new formula omits key states, like Alabama, and does not take into account consent decrees. Alabama has a storied history of voter suppression. Although progress has been made, it is largely due to the protections granted by the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. We have witnessed a steady erosion of voter protections in the wake of Shelby County v. Holder that prove federal oversight is still necessary. Last January, a federal judge reinstated federal oversight in the City of Evergreen, Alabama, using Section 3 of the Voting Rights Act which allows the courts to bail in' jurisdictions that have intentionally discriminated against minority voters. The City of Evergreen came under federal scrutiny for unfairly excluding African-Americans from the voting rolls, and for attempting to further dilute their voting power with a redistricting plan that would pack its majority black population into only two of five municipal districts. The State of Alabama has also enacted a proof-of-citizenship requirement and photo identification rules that makes it harder to vote. Imposing additional and unnecessary restrictions discourages young adults, the elderly, people of color, naturalized citizens, and low-income individuals from coming to the polls. We need to protect their voices, not silence them completely. The struggle to ensure that all Americans can participate equally in the political process continues. Voting rights advocates and everyday citizens must remain vigilant and do all they can to safeguard against efforts to constrict democracy in state, l… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-tuscaloosa-congress-your-community | Congresswoman Terri Sewell to Host Tuscaloosa "Congress in Your Community" During 2015 Town Hall Tour | 2015-02-12 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | TUSCALOOSA, AL On Wednesday, February 18th, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host a Congress in Your Community town hall meeting in Tuscaloosa at the McDonald Hughes Community Center. The visit is part of Rep. Sewell's annual Congress in Your Community tour through the 14 counties of the 7thCongressional District. During the 2015 tour, Rep Sewell will make stops in Bessemer, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Hayneville, Montgomery, Reform, Epes, Demopolis, Pennington, Thomasville, Yellow Bluff, Marion, Selma, Greensboro, and Eutaw. Rep Sewell's annual town hall meetings give constituents an opportunity to share their views and concerns and hear updates on the latest in Congress. Each year, my annual tour serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue with my constituents. I look forward to connecting with the residents of the 7thCongressional District to address their concerns and update them on the various legislative initiatives in Congress, Rep. Sewell said. I am certain that this year's tour through the district will continue to help me to better serve the needs of those I'm honored to represent. What:Congress in Your Community Town Hall Meeting When:Wednesday February 18, 2015 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Location: McDonald Hughes Community Center 3101 Martin Luther King Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-congressional-gold-medal-bill-honor-voting-rights-marchers | House Passes Congressional Gold Medal Bill to Honor Voting Rights Marchers | 2015-02-11 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell applauded the unanimous passage of H.R. 431, a bipartisan bill she introduced to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the brave Foot Soldiers whose perilous journey from Selma to Montgomery led to the passage of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. Voting is the most fundamental right we share as Americans. We owe a debt of gratitude to the brave Foot Soldiers who dared to march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in the face of extreme racial hostility. We should never forget the sacrifices they made so this nation could live up to its ideals of equality and justice for all. The Congressional Gold medal is a great reminder of the power of ordinary Americans to collectively achieve extraordinary social change. This nation should never forget those who marched, prayed and died in the pursuit of civil and voting rights. While we can never truly repay the Foot Soldiers for the sacrifices they made, we can offer a down payment by continuing to fight against injustice wherever it exists, said Rep. Terri Sewell. I am deeply humbled by the strong bipartisan support H.R. 431 received, and would like to thank Representative Martha Roby and all of the members of the Alabama Congressional delegation for standing with me in support of this bill. The Congressional Gold Medal should serve as a compelling reminder of the sacrifices that each and every Foot Soldier made so that all Americans could enjoy the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, added Rep. Sewell. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL), whose district includes parts of Montgomery, is an original sponsor of the bill along with Representative Sewell. "I'm proud to be part of this bill to honor the legacy of the brave individuals who took a stand for equal rights in Alabama against brutality and oppression. I want to thank my friend, Terri Sewell for her leadership and hard work on this bill, and thanks as well to all who signed on as co-sponsors, said Rep. Martha Roby. About the Congressional Gold… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-continues-push-judge-fuller-impeachment-trial | Rep. Sewell Continues Push for Judge Fuller Impeachment Trial | 2015-02-10 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell welcomed news that the House Judiciary Committee is one step closer to holding judicial impeachment proceedings for U.S. District Judge Mark Fuller of Alabama. In November, I requested that the Judiciary Committee initiate an impeachment investigation and hearing into Judge Mark Fuller's arrest. Only Congress can impeach a federal judge, and I have repeatedly pressed for my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee to take the steps necessary to remove Judge Fuller from the bench. I am pleased that the House Judiciary Committee has requested additional funding in anticipation of potential judicial impeachment proceedings. I hoped that Judge Fuller would have spared himself, his family, and our nation the expense of this lengthy process by immediately resigning but he has resisted my repeated calls to step down. I will continue to work with my colleagues to uphold the integrity of the Court and to initiate impeachment proceedings. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-opposed-hr-596-0 | Dept. of Transportation Deputy Secretary Visits Birmingham | 2015-02-06 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell thanked the U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary Victor Mendez for visiting the City of Birmingham where he met with civic and business leaders, and toured local construction projects. I am pleased that Deputy Secretary Victor Mendez came to the City of Birmingham to meet with civic leaders and top executives from small minority-owned and women-owned businesses, tour the Downtown Intermodal Facility and visit new construction projects throughout the City. Birmingham is looking to the future, and we are poised to become a leader in the Southeast. We are working to attract more industries, and I hope the Deputy Secretary's visit will encourage business and government leaders from across the country and from around the world to visit and learn more about what the City of Birmingham has to offer. ### Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a Democrat from Alabama's 7th Congressional District. A Member of the House Financial Services Committee and the House Select Intelligence Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-opposed-hr-596 | Rep. Sewell Opposed H.R. 596 | 2015-02-03 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-7) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 596, a bill that would repeal the Affordable Care Act in its entirety: Today's vote is the House Republicans' 56thattempt to erase the valuable gains we have made under the Affordable Care Act. These continued attempts to weaken or repeal the ACA would hurt millions of Americans who have received access to quality and affordable healthcare because of this law's implementation. H.R. 596 places potentially lifesaving medical care and treatment beyond the reach of hardworking Americans across this nation. My district has already benefitted tremendously from the law. Since the ACA's enactment, more than 9,900 previously uninsured people in my district now have access to affordable, quality health coverage. An estimated 38,000 children with pre-existing conditions have no longer been denied health insurance, and seniors have saved $7.5 million in prescription drug costs. Repealing the ACA would do more harm than good. Access to quality, affordable healthcare should not be a privilege. It is a necessity, and Congress should do more to assist those who cannot afford medical coverage. I will continue to defend this critically important law in the face of any and all future attacks. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-calls-presidents-fy-2016-budget-commitment-all-americans | Rep. Sewell Calls the President's FY 2016 Budget a Commitment for All Americans | 2015-02-02 | 2015 | 2015-02 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement about the President's Fiscal Year 2016 Budget released today: I fully support the President's Fiscal Year 2016 Budget request. The President recognizes that prosperity must be shared, rather than concentrated in the hands of a select few. His Fiscal Year 2016 Budget reflects his commitment to helping the poor, protecting our national security, and preserving historical sites while reducing our deficit responsibly. As we approach the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Voting Rights March from Selma to Montgomery, I am pleased that the President's budget also includes a commitment to preserve a critical part of our history. The President acknowledged the historical significance of the March from Selma to Montgomery in his State of the Union, and I applaud his efforts to ensure the sacred' right to vote is protected and its importance is preserved for future generations. The Fiscal Year 2016 Budget dedicates $50 million to restore and protect key sites across the United States of significance to the struggle for civil rights, including the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. It also includes another $30 million for a Historic Preservation Fund that will be available through competitive grants, and another $2.5 million available to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. I urge my colleagues in Congress to carefully consider the President's Budget and to work with the Administration to implement the President's initiatives to create ladders of opportunities. There should be no partisan divide; Democrats and Republicans must work together to grow our economy and help those who most need it. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-terri-sewell-named-ranking-member-house-intelligence-subcommittee | Rep. Terri Sewell Named Ranking Member on House Intelligence Subcommittee | 2015-01-28 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Terri Sewell has been named as the Ranking Member on a key subcommittee on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence during her second term on the Committee. She is now the leading Democrat on the Subcommittee on the Department of Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture. The Subcommittee on the Department of Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture has the duty to oversee policies, programs, and budgets for Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) as well as the intelligence funding for the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. I am proud that my colleagues selected me as the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture. Alabama plays a critically important role in providing the advanced technology necessary for our military and intelligence agencies to effectively execute their missions. The Subcommittee on the Department of Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture is responsible for congressional oversight of policies, programs and budgets for several government agencies that are integral in defending our country against terrorism and collecting vital intelligence. As this Subcommittee's Ranking Member, I am committed to working with Congress and the Administration in supporting polices and legislation that ensures the safety of all Americans, said Congresswoman Sewell. The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has a strong tradition of bipartisanship, and I intend to continue that tradition. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in shaping policies that help preserve our national security, added the Congresswoman. In order to improve oversight of our nation's intelligence community, the Committee is adopting a new agency-specific subcommittee structure. I know that the new Ranking Members including Representative Terri Sewell of these subcommittees together with their respective Membe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-issues-statement-us-steel-layoffs | Rep. Sewell Issues Statement on U.S. Steel Layoffs | 2015-01-26 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement after U.S. Steel announced it would temporarily lay off some of its workers at Fairfield Tubular Operations and Fairfield Works in Fairfield, Alabama. I am deeply disappointed by U.S. Steel's recent announcement that they will lay off workers at their Fairfield, Alabama facilities. I am concerned about the workers and families who depend on these critically important jobs to make ends meet. While my hope is that this reduction will only be temporary, it is imperative that we work together to minimize the impact of these potential layoffs on the lives of these hardworking men and women. U.S. Steel is an integral part of our local and regional economy, and I am proud to stand with members of the United Steelworkers. Congress must do more to help companies like U.S. Steel and others in the manufacturing sector grow and create more jobs for Americans. ### Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a Democrat from Alabama's 7th Congressional District. A Member of the House Financial Services Committee and the House Select Intelligence Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-lowndes-county-congress-your-community-0 | Congresswoman Terri Sewell to Host Lowndes County "Congress in Your Community" During 2015 Town Hall Tour | 2015-01-21 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | HAYNEVILLE, AL On Friday, January 23rd, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host a Congress in Your Community town hall meeting in Hayneville at the Town Hall Auditorium. The visit is part of Rep. Sewell's annual Congress in Your Community tour through the 14 counties of the 7thCongressional District. During the 2015 tour, Rep Sewell will make stops in Bessemer, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Hayneville, Montgomery, Reform, Epes, Demopolis, Pennington, Thomasville, Yellow Bluff, Marion, Selma, Greensboro, and Eutaw. Rep Sewell's annual town hall meetings give constituents an opportunity to share their views and concerns and hear updates on the latest in Congress. Each year, my annual tour serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue with my constituents. I look forward to connecting with the residents of the 7thCongressional District to address their concerns and update them on the various legislative initiatives in Congress, Rep. Sewell said. I am certain that this year's tour through the district will continue to help me to better serve the needs of those I'm honored to represent. What:Congress in Your Community Town Hall Meeting When:Friday, January 23, 2015 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Location: Town of Hayneville Town Hall Auditorium 241 W. Tuskeena St. Hayneville, AL 36040 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-terri-sewell-host-montgomery-county-congress-your | Congresswoman Terri Sewell to Host Montgomery County "Congress in Your Community" During 2015 Town Hall Tour | 2015-01-21 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | MONTGOMERY, AL On Friday, January 23rd, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) will host a Congress in Your Community town hall meeting in Montgomery at Montgomery City Hall. The visit is part of Rep. Sewell's annual Congress in Your Community tour through the 14 counties of the 7thCongressional District. During the 2015 tour, Rep Sewell will make stops in Bessemer, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Hayneville, Montgomery, Reform, Epes, Demopolis, Pennington, Thomasville, Yellow Bluff, Marion, Selma, Greensboro, and Eutaw. Rep Sewell's annual town hall meetings give constituents an opportunity to share their views and concerns and hear updates on the latest in Congress. Each year, my annual tour serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue with my constituents. I look forward to connecting with the residents of the 7thCongressional District to address their concerns and update them on the various legislative initiatives in Congress, Rep. Sewell said. I am certain that this year's tour through the district will continue to help me to better serve the needs of those I'm honored to represent. What:Congress in Your Community Town Hall Meeting When:Friday January 23, 2015 Time: 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location: Montgomery City Hall City Council Auditorium 103 North Perry St. Montgomery, AL 36104 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-sewell-and-roby-introduce-congressional-gold-medal-bill | Reps. Sewell and Roby Introduce Congressional Gold Medal Bill | 2015-01-21 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL-7) and Congressman Martha Roby (R-AL-2) introduced H.R. 431, a bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Foot Soldiers whose perilous journey from Selma to Montgomery led to the passage of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. America was forced to face its own inhumanity after witnessing the brutal attacks on Bloody Sunday. Thousands heeded Dr. Martin Luther King's call to come to Selma in the wake of Bloody Sunday and marched in peace to Montgomery as a show of solidary for equal voting rights. It was the courage of those brave men and women black and white that forced our country to become a more just and democratic nation. We cannot appreciate how far we have come without acknowledging from where we came. This bill will bestow Congress' highest civilian honor to the Foot Soldiers who marched in Bloody Sunday, Turnaround Tuesday, or the final Selma to Montgomery March in 1965, which served as a catalyst for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. I want this medal to serve as a compelling reminder of the sacrifices made by these Foot Soldiers so that all Americans may enjoy fundamental rights granted to all of us by the Constitution, said Rep. Sewell. I am proud to co-sponsor this bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the brave men and women whose march for justice changed not just Alabama, but America and the world. As this year marks the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday,' it is such a fitting time to honor the legacy of the brave individuals who, against brutality and oppression, took a stand for their God-given rights. I appreciate the work of my dear friend and colleague Terri Sewell on this worthy legislation, said Rep. Roby. About the Congressional Gold Medal Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions. The medal was first awarded in 1776 by the second Continental Congress to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-congresswoman-sewell-state-union | Statement from Congresswoman Sewell on the State of the Union | 2015-01-21 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement on President Obama's State of the Union Address: Our nation's greatness rests firmly on the pledge that all Americans have an equal opportunity to achieve their dreams. Tonight, President Obama proposed turning that pledge into a promise. The President unveiled his vision to strengthen the working and middle classes by making homeownership more affordable, advocating for paid family leave, and ensuring a college education is more accessible for qualified students. Our economy has grown tremendously since the depths of the financial crisis. The President reminded us that businesses have created 11 million new jobs and that the unemployment rate has fallen. We have come far, but that does not mean our work is done. Far too many Americans are still struggling, and we need a comprehensive strategy that adequately addresses their needs. The President also acknowledged that one of our most fundamental rights the right to vote has been denied for too many,' and referenced the 50thanniversary of the march from Selma to Montgomery. As a daughter of Selma and as the Congresswoman who represents Birmingham, Selma, and Montgomery I know that the injustices protesters suffered on the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Bloody Sunday have not been fully vindicated. My special guest for the President's address was 103-year-old voting rights matriarch Amelia Boynton Robinson. Ms. Boynton Robinson was one of those courageous Foot Soldiers who dared to challenge an unfair and unjust system that kept African Americans from exercising their constitutionally protected right to vote. I am pleased that she had a chance to meet the President tonight, and we look forward to welcoming him to Selma for the 50thcommemoration of the historic Selma to Montgomery march. ### Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a Democrat from Alabama's 7th Congressional District. A Member of the House Financial Services Committee and the House Select Intelligence Commi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/103-year-old-civil-rights-activist-amelia-boynton-robinson-arrives-state | 103-year-old civil rights activist Amelia Boynton Robinson arrives for the State of the Union | 2015-01-20 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. 103-year-old voting rights activist Amelia Boynton Robinson arrived in Washington, D.C., early Tuesday to attend the State of the Union as a special guest of Congresswoman Terri Sewell. Mrs. Boynton Robinson's role in Bloody Sunday and the march from Selma to Montgomery is immortalized in the Oscar-nominated film,Selma. She also made history in 1964, by becoming the first woman and the first African-American from Alabama to run for Congress.Mrs. Boynton Robinsongarnered 10 percent of the vote, despite the fact that African-Americans only made up 1 percent of the voting population in Alabama's 7thCongressional district. Forty-six years later, Congresswoman Sewell now holds that seat in Congress as Alabama's first African-American Congresswoman. I feel as though Terri and I have a bond that cannot be broken. I am delighted that she invited me as her guest to hear our President give the State of the Union address. I appreciate the work of her entire staff and my assistants in Tuskegee who helped make my trip to Washington possible. I will forever remember this day, Mrs. Boynton Robinson said. I am honored thatMrs. Boynton Robinsonis attending the State of the Union as my special guest. Amelia Boynton Robinson challenged an unfair and unjust system that kept African Americans from exercising their constitutionally protected right to vote. She paved the way for me to accomplish all that I have today, and her legacy should inspire us not to take any of our rights for granted, said Congresswoman Sewell. ### Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a Democrat from Alabama's 7th Congressional District. A Member of the House Financial Services Committee and the House Select Intelligence Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/103-year-old-civil-rights-activist-amelia-boynton-robinson-joins-rep | 103-year-old Civil Rights Activist Amelia Boynton Robinson Joins Rep. Sewell at State of the Union | 2015-01-19 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. -- 103-year-old voting rights activist AmeliaMrs. Boynton Robinsonwill attend the State of the Union as a guest of Congresswoman Terri Sewell. Actress Lorraine Toussaint portrayed Boynton in the Oscar-nominated film,Selma. Selma is a very powerful movie about a very powerful movement. Amelia Boynton Robinson was one of the courageous foot soldiers who dared to challenge an unfair and unjust system that kept African Americans from exercising their constitutionally protected right to vote. Mrs. Boynton Robinson suffered grave injustices on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma at the hands of state troopers on Bloody Sunday, yet she refused to be intimidated. She marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, my colleague Rep. John Lewis and thousands of others from Selma to Montgomery and ultimately witnessed the day when their work led to the passage of the historic Voting Rights Act of 1965. We have come too far to turn back. I hope her presence at the State of the Union reminds all of us about the importance of voting and sacrifices brave Americans like Amelia Boynton Robinson endured so this nation could live up to the ideals of equality and justice for all." ### Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a Democrat from Alabama's 7th Congressional District. A Member of the House Financial Services Committee and the House Select Intelligence Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://sewell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sewell-honors-dr-king-true-visionary | Rep. Sewell Honors Dr. King as a True Visionary' | 2015-01-19 | 2015 | 2015-01 | Democrat | House | AL | Terri Sewell | S001185 | sewell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Terri Sewell issued the following statement in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., dreamed of a day when race would no longer divide us and that everyone would sit down together at the table of brotherhood.' Only a true visionary could defeat a torrent of opposition with little more than a dream, and Dr. King held so tightly to his that it forced our country to become a more equal and just nation. He confronted his enemies with friendship, showered hate with love, and combatted violence with non-violence. We cannot take for granted the struggles that others have endured. Dr. King's legacy requires us to continue the fight for social justice and to challenge those who seek to take away our rights. We have already witnessed a renewed assault on our right to vote, and we must once again demand that America live up to its principles. I urge Congress to pass legislation that would strengthen federal voting protections. This year marks the 50thanniversary of the march from Selma to Montgomery and of the historicVoting Rights Act of 1965. These are parts of the legacy that Dr. King has left to us. Let us live up to it. ### Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a Democrat from Alabama's 7th Congressional District. A Member of the House Financial Services Committee and the House Select Intelligence Committee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
Advanced export
JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object
CREATE TABLE [releases] (
[url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
[title] TEXT,
[date] TEXT,
[year] TEXT,
[month] TEXT,
[party] TEXT,
[chamber] TEXT,
[state] TEXT,
[member_name] TEXT,
[bioguide_id] TEXT,
[domain] TEXT,
[scraper] TEXT,
[source] TEXT,
[date_source] TEXT,
[text] TEXT,
[has_text] INTEGER,
[collected_at] TEXT,
[updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
ON [releases] ([has_text]);