press: releases: 403 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "CO" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending

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403 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "CO" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending

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url	title	date ▲	year	month	party	chamber	state	member_name	bioguide_id	domain	date_source	text	has_text	collected_at	updated_at
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=7CCA8323-82E9-8B25-DEA4-65FDB9F22913	Bennet Statement on National Monument Proclamation for Bears Ears	2016-12-30	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Denver, CO - Today Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement after the administration proclaims Bears Ears a national monument: "This monument designation reflects the wishes of the Ute Mountain Ute tribe, the Southern Ute tribe, and other Coloradans that we protect and preserve the beauty and culture of Bears Ears for future generations. This action is an important step forward in restoring our nation's commitment to our tribes by protecting land they regard as sacred and giving them more of a voice in its future management."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=AA284152-64A5-40C7-4161-9496854CAB89	Bennet calls on Future Presidential Nominees, President-Elect Trump to Release Tax Returns	2016-12-30	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Today Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet co-sponsored a bill requiring current presidents and future presidential nominees to release their tax returns in an effort to increase transparency and give the American public insight into any foreign deals. "The American people deserve to know about the financial dealings, both foreign and domestic, of the person who serves as our commander-in-chief," Bennet said. "Our democracy depends on the foundation of transparency that makes America unique and great." The Presidential Tax Transparency Act requires all sitting presidents to release their most recent three years of tax returns to the Office of Government Ethics (OGE). It also requires that, within 15 days of becoming the nominee at the party convention, presidential nominees must release their most recent 3 years of tax returns to the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Should the sitting president or future candidates refuse to comply, the Treasury Secretary will be required to provide the tax returns directly to the OGE or FEC respectively for public release. For nearly 40 year, since Watergate, candidates from major political parties have voluntarily released tax returns during the campaign. Original cosponsors of the Presidential Tax Transparency Act include: Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR) Chris Murphy (D-CT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Tom Udall (D-NM), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). A one-page summary of the legislative proposal can be found here. The bill text can be found here.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=F15F8F18-6214-32BF-DADB-9E42BBBFA078	Bennet Statement on Draft UN Security Council Resolution	2016-12-22	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement on the UN Security Council Resolution submitted Wednesday by Egypt: "We must continue to push for policies that support direct negotiations in pursuit of a two-state solution," Bennet said. "If what is offered is a one-sided Security Council resolution that would undermine the prospect of direct talks, the Administration should veto."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1542	Perlmutter Releases 2016 End of Year Report	2016-12-21	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Perlmutter Releases 2016 End of Year Report f t # e Lakewood, Colo.-, December 21, 2016 Lakewood, Colo. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) released an overview of activity for 2016 including constituents services, events and legislation. “One of my greatest responsibilities is helping the hardworking people of the 7th Congressional District,” said Perlmutter. “My staff and I are here to help constituents cut through red tape at federal agencies as well as to provide resources and information about a variety of issues. We look forward to continuing to serve the people of the 7th District in 2017.” In 2016, on behalf of the 7th Congressional District, Rep. Perlmutter and his staff: Hosted 30 events with more than 18,000 attendees Completed 595 constituent services cases Helped secure $550,350 in owed benefits and savings for constituents Advocated for $31.8 million in funds supporting organizations, research and jobs in the 7th Congressional District Answered 49,456 letters, emails and calls Nominated 22 students to U.S. Service Academies Drafted 5 pieces of legislation which became law in the 114th Congress In addition, Perlmutter was awarded “2016 Legislator of the Year” by three organizations: Paralyzed Veterans of America – Mountain States Chapter; Jefferson County Economic Development Corp.; and United Veterans Committee of Colorado. f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-and-100-lawmakers-urging-trump-to-abandon-the-hyde-amendment	DeGette and 100+ Lawmakers Urging Trump to Abandon the Hyde Amendment	2016-12-20	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) and more than 100 other House Democrats joined forces to call on President-Elect Donald Trump to abandon the ban on women’s reproductive health choices known as the Hyde Amendment and to remove related funding constraints. The ban, which anti-choice members of Congress have inserted into annual spending legislation for four decades, prohibits federal funds in Medicaid and other health programs from being used for abortion. This restriction on millions of women’s health care has predominantly hurt the under-privileged. In a letter to the president-elect, the 108 legislators said, “Every person should be treated with dignity, compassion and respect – and that includes upholding a woman’s right to make her own decisions about whether to end a pregnancy.” During the campaign, Trump pledged in a letter to an anti-choice group that he would make the Hyde Amendment law. The lawmakers asked him to forego that pledge and to “demonstrate your commitment to being a President for all people in the United States by eliminating the Hyde Amendment, as well as related abortion coverage and care restrictions, from your Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 Budget request.” “We urge you to begin your presidency with a clear and bold statement that abortion coverage bans have no place in our public policy,” they wrote. “This will send a strong message to Congress and the country that everyone should be able to decide when and how to start a family—no matter their income, the type of insurance they have, or where they live.” In an op-ed and other public statements earlier this year, DeGette reaffirmed her commitment to passing the EACH Woman (Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance) Act, which would prohibit re-introduction of the Hyde Amendment. She intends to co-sponsor it again when the new Congress meets next year.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1538	Perlmutter Works to Protect Employees and Work of NREL and Other National Laboratories	2016-12-19	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Lakewood, Colo. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) joined 26 members of the U.S. House of Representatives to send a letter to President-elect Trump expressing concerns over reports the Trump transition team has asked for personal information of employees at Department of Energy National Laboratories (DOE labs). The 27 members represent and/or sit on committees with jurisdiction over the 17 DOE National Laboratories. “The 7th Congressional District is home to the National Renewable Energy Lab which is the world’s premier renewable energy and energy efficiency research lab and employs more than 1700 people,” said Perlmutter. “NREL and other DOE labs play a vital role in promoting technological innovation, research and development, energy independence and strengthening our national security.” As stated in the letter, the Trump transition team asked for “a list of the top 20 salaried employees of the labs, the labs’ peer-reviewed publications over the past three years, a list of their professional society memberships, affiliations and the websites they maintain or contribute to ‘during work hours’, according to The Washington Post. This was part of a larger set of questions asking DOE about which employees worked on the issue of climate change. “Staff at our DOE labs go where the science takes them, and for that they should be praised, not punished,” the letter states. The letter continues on to ask for specific questions that were asked of DOE about lab staff, the purpose behind them, and what the Trump transition team plans to do with any information obtained. Click here for the full letter. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/potential-russian-influence-in-us-elections-calls-for-bipartisan-inquiry	Potential Russian Influence in U.S. Elections Calls for Bipartisan Inquiry, DeGette Says	2016-12-15	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – In response to ongoing media reports that the U.S. intelligence community has found that the Russian Federation directed activities to influence the outcome of the U.S. elections in November, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), today called for a bipartisan inquiry that will present its conclusions to the public. “The prospect of a foreign power meddling in U.S. elections should concern all Americans, along with those who support democracy around the world,” DeGette said. “Getting to the bottom of this alarming prospect is the job of an impartial inquiry with access to all the relevant facts, including highly classified information. Sorting through that information and presenting a coherent and responsible account must be an urgent priority for the U.S. government.” To meet these objectives, DeGette intends to cosponsor the recently-introduced Protecting Our Democracy Act (H.R. 6447). It would create a bipartisan and independent commission to interview witnesses, obtain documents, receive public testimony and, where necessary, issue subpoenas. The commission would be required to issue a final report with recommendations to Congress and the President within 18 months of the bill’s enactment. “It is irresponsible to downplay or dismiss the information that has been presented by major media about this threat,” DeGette said. “We need to defend the legitimacy of U.S. elections at the local, state and national levels. This is not a partisan issue. Nothing less than the international credibility of our country as an example and leader in promoting democracy is at stake.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/the-21st-century-cures-act-a-view-from-the-nih	The 21st Century Cures Act A View from the NIH	2016-12-14	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	The Cures Act, formally known as H.R. 34 or the 21st Century Cures Act,1 passed overwhelmingly in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate in the waning days of the 114th Congress and was signed into law by President Barack Obama on December 13, 2016. Weighing in at nearly 1000 pages, this bipartisan bill is the product of years of hard work by Republican and Democratic lawmakers, in collaboration with a broad array of diverse stakeholders. As with any landmark piece of legislation, the complex negotiations leading up to its passage were challenging and intense. But the final provisions are well worth heralding, including increased support for state efforts to combat opioid abuse, new steps aimed at improving mental health services, and important changes affecting the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Here, we focus on aspects of the Cures Act that are directly relevant to the NIH’s mission — measures that will provide the agency with critical tools and resources to advance biomedical research across the spectrum from basic, curiosity-driven studies to advanced clinical trials of promising new therapies. Affecting everyone from researchers to research participants to patients suffering from numerous conditions, these measures will cut bureaucratic red tape that slows the progress of science, enhance data sharing and privacy protections for research volunteers, improve support for the next generation of biomedical researchers, exhort the NIH to extend its efforts to ensure inclusion of diverse populations, and provide the NIH with a bolus of additional funding over 10 years for key biomedical research initiatives. Some key measures reduce red tape. Policies generated with the best intentions sometimes have serious adverse consequences for research. Two needlessly obstructive policies have been undone by the Cures Act — one dealing with paperwork and the other with scientific meetings. The first, the ironically titled Paperwork Reduction Act,2 was enacted when the Interne…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-slaughter-pallone-hail-final-rule-protecting-women-s-health	DeGette, Slaughter, Pallone Hail Final Rule Protecting Womens Health Services Under Title X	2016-12-14	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC — Representatives Diana DeGette (D-CO), Louise Slaughter (D-NY), and Frank Pallone (D-NJ) today hailed the Obama Administration’s final rule barring states from withholding federal family planning funds in a discriminatory manner from clinics that provide women’s reproductive health services. They noted that the rule issued today will shore up efforts across the country to safeguard women’s access to services protected under Title X, which have been in place for more than 25 years. Title X is the only federal program focused solely on providing family planning and related preventive services. “Title X-supported programs provide vital care for uninsured, low-income and young people nationwide,” said DeGette, co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus. “This updated regulation protects millions of people seeking access to these essential services. Given the intensifying attacks on women’s access to them at both the state and federal level in recent months, such protection is more important than ever.” “Women’s health care services will be under unprecedented assault from a Trump Administration, Republican leaders in Congress, and conservative state legislatures across the country. But men in blue suits and red ties shouldn’t determine what women can and should do when it comes to their own health or bodies. The Obama Administration’s actions today will protect state health care providers from political attacks that could cripple their ability to provide life-saving and preventative health care services to millions of Americans,” said Slaughter, co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus. “Millions of Americans rely on Title X-supported health clinics to access critical health services like cancer screenings, HIV tests, and reproductive health services,” Pallone said. “Unfortunately, Republicans have placed politics before health care by attempting to limit which providers women can access to meet these needs. Today’s action will protect women’s access to quality health care services by…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398253	Polis statement on crisis in Aleppo	2016-12-14	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Polis statement on crisis in Aleppo f t # e Washington, December 14, 2016 WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) released the following statement regarding the ongoing crisis in Aleppo, Syria. "In light of these atrocities, I believe that we cannot continue to sit idly by," Polis said. "Over the last five years, we have seen the devastating cost of inaction, and as Americans, we have a responsibility to lead. I call on President Obama to use all channels at his disposal to negotiate a cessation of hostilities in East Aleppo with the Russian, Iranian, and Syrian governments and consider emergency airlifts and the creation of safe zones. Deescalating the conflict will provide immediate relief for the civilians who are trapped, and allow for their evacuation to North Aleppo – an important step towards fragile safety. It is incumbent upon the international community to demonstrate our capacity for decency and dignity. With history as our guide, we must act to prevent atrocities. We must stand with Aleppo and do everything in our power to protect and secure the fundamental human rights of the Syrian people." The escalating threat to civilian lives in Aleppo, Syria is an immense and imminent human rights disaster. At least 50,000 civilians are still trapped in their homes, besieged by heavy bombardments. Eastern Aleppo is being specifically targeted for violence by government forces. Reports of murder, violence, and retaliation against insurgents and innocent civilians are widespread.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/21st-century-cures-act-s-passage-also-suggests-a-cure-for-gridlock	21st Century Cures Acts Passage Also Suggests a Cure for Gridlock	2016-12-13	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Congratulations are due to Congresswoman Diana DeGette and a bipartisan team of lawmakers who managed what seems increasingly difficult in these days of hyper-partisanship and Washington gridlock: passage of a major bill full of promise for the American people. President Barack Obama is expected to sign the 21st Century Cures Act, which received massive support in both the House and Senate in recent days, after years of work on the part of DeGette, the Denver Democrat, and Republican Congressman Fred Upton of Michigan. As other wise souls have noted, getting a major bill that deals with health care passed with bipartisan support after the animosity left by the Democrats-only passage of the Affordable Care Act is no small accomplishment. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called the bill’s passage “the most significant legislation passed by this Congress.” We’ve cheered for the legislation, arguing, as DeGette and Upton have observed, that the status quo for getting new drugs and medical devices to the marketplace in this country takes far too long, despite past congressional efforts. Researchers at the Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development, for example, found that in 2014 the cost of bringing a new prescription drug to market topped $2.6 billion and more than 10 years. The long, costly slog contrasts with major advances in biotechnology and biomedicine. The 21st Century Cures measure intends to streamline the approval process within the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration’s review of new treatments. It also provides means to combat opioid addiction and bolster mental health care. The measure also helps fund the so-called “cancer moon-shot” effort that Vice President Joe Biden has launched and helps fund research into brain diseases like Alzheimer’s. DeGette worked with Upton to hold numerous public discussions in Colorado and other states, as well as policy discussions with medical and policy experts, to better understand the challenges and build support for solutions. …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-21st-century-cures-law-is-proof-that-bipartisanship-can-work-wonders	New 21st Century Cures Law is Proof That Bipartisanship Can Work Wonders, But Partisan Plans for Health Care Reform Could Undermine Important Progress	2016-12-13	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	President Obama has just signed the 21st Century Cures Act into law. This landmark legislation makes significant investments in biomedical research. It will lead to new treatments for some of the most vexing medical challenges, including diseases that touch many Americans, such as Alzheimer’s and cancer. But without health insurance coverage, millions of people might not be able to access the new treatments that we worked so hard on a bipartisan basis to enable under Cures. No amount of ground-breaking discoveries will save people who can’t afford to pay for treatment. The promise of Cures is threatened by partisan plans for health insurance coverage in this country ranging from repealing the Affordable Care Act to block-granting Medicaid and converting Medicare into a privatized voucher program. Republicans in Congress are racing to repeal the ACA without any plan to preserve people’s care. Experts at the Urban Institute estimate that nearly 30 million people could lose coverage under the Republican plan, including 588,000 in Colorado. The ACA is not perfect. Congress can and should work together to improve it and work toward solutions that make premiums less expensive while still ensuring quality coverage. But we must not deny health insurance to millions of people who need coverage most, especially families and patients suffering from disease. Taking this reckless step would return us to the days when people across this country had to choose between life-saving treatments and paying for groceries or the rent. Throughout the entire Cures process, members of Congress were unified behind one goal: to modernize the way we discover, develop and deliver groundbreaking treatments to patients. Our objective was to improve patient health, restore hope and ease suffering. We worked hard to resolve our often significant differences over this bill. Republicans and Democrats alike sacrificed and compromised in order to achieve a greater good for the American people. This strong bipartisan commitment to biomedical innovatio…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=C7297A93-0232-E5E5-021B-2A7C3696B884	Bennet-Authored Measure to Expedite Gold King Mine Reimbursements Passes Senate	2016-12-10	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Yesterday the Senate passed a bill to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) with a measure sponsored by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet to expedite the reimbursement of emergency response costs assumed by States, Indian tribes, and local governments following the Gold King Mine spill. "For the last sixteen months, we've been pushing the EPA to reimburse the State, Indian tribes, and local governments that responded quickly to the Gold King Mine spill," Bennet said. "We were disappointed last week when the agency announced that it did not plan to pay back more of the money that local communities spent responding to the spill. The bipartisan amendment that we included in the Water Resources Development Act will require the EPA to pay communities back for more of their costs. It also ensures the EPA continues to work with local communities to develop a long-term water monitoring program for the Animas River and authorizes funding for the program. We look forward to the President signing this bill into law and will work with southwest Colorado to make sure they receive the reimbursements they are due." In September 2016, the Senate passed a bill to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) with a measure sponsored by Senator Bennet to expedite the reimbursement of emergency response costs assumed by States, Indian tribes, and local governments following the spill. A similar provision was included in a bill that the House passed on Thursday and that the Senate passed on Friday. Senator Gardner (R-CO), Tom Udall (D-NM), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and John McCain (R-AZ) joined Bennet to introduce the bipartisan amendment. The measure requires the EPA to make decisions on claims within 90 days and allows for claims that include costs incurred beyond October 31, 2015. It also establishes a long-term water quality monitoring program and authorizes funding to pay for the program.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/cures-act-gains-bipartisan-support-that-eluded-obama-health-law	Cures Act Gains Bipartisan Support That Eluded Obama Health Law	2016-12-09	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — With self-congratulatory zeal and smiles all around, huge bipartisan majorities in Congress have just passed legislation to speed the discovery of cures for killer diseases. At the same time, Republican leaders have been devising a strategy to undo the Affordable Care Act, which has done more than any law in a generation to treat people with those diseases. “It is a real contradiction,” said Dr. Otis W. Brawley, the chief medical officer at the American Cancer Society. In recent years, few major bills have commanded as much support as the 21st Century Cures Act, which sailed to passage by votes of 392 to 26 in the House on Nov. 30, and 94 to 5 in the Senate a week later. Once it is signed by President Obama on Tuesday, as the White House has said it will be, the law will allow for money to be pumped into biomedical research and speed the approval of new drugs and medical devices. It also includes provisions to improve mental health care and combat opioid abuse. “This is the most significant legislation passed by this Congress,” the Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, said on Thursday. By contrast, he once referred to the 2010 health law as “the single worst piece of legislation that has been passed in the last half-century.” Ellen V. Sigal, the chairwoman of Friends of Cancer Research, an advocacy group, said “there’s a disconnect” between efforts to pass the Cures Act and to repeal the Affordable Care Act. “Most people voting and lobbying on Capitol Hill have health insurance,” Ms. Sigal said. “Intellectually, they may know that some people are suffering without insurance. But do they have empathy? Those who are insured may not emotionally understand what it is like for those who are not insured. We live in our own bubble.” Lawmakers have their own explanations. For one thing, the two health care efforts vastly differ in size. At a cost of $6.3 billion, the Cures Act is not small, but the Affordable Care Act cost hundreds of billions of dollars and affected every facet of medicine —…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1718E141-E968-6FC3-5BC9-BEFBBD81EA3A	Bennet Statement Regarding Gold King Mine Spill Decision	2016-12-09	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement regarding the final decisions from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on outstanding costs related to the Gold King Mine spill. "Since last August, we've been pushing the EPA to fulfill their long overdue commitment to the State, Indian tribes, and local governments who responded quickly to the spill," Bennet said. "The communities in southwest Colorado paid money out of their own pockets to maintain drinking water, provide for extra staffing costs, keep the public updated, provide water for irrigation, and monitor water quality. Although we're relieved the EPA has finally ended its long drawn-out reimbursement process, it's disappointing that the agency has not reimbursed the communities for more of their costs. We will continue to fight for our measure to enable further reimbursements and establish a long-term water monitoring program." On August 5, 2015, the Gold King Mine spill emptied three million gallons of contaminated wastewater into the Animas River, turning it bright orange and damaging communities downstream. Since the spill, Senator Bennet has worked to ensure that the EPA addresses all local communities' concerns and prioritizes funding for cleanup of the spill. In September 2016, the Senate passed a bill to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) with a measure sponsored by Senator Bennet to expedite the reimbursement of emergency response costs assumed by States, Indian tribes, and local governments following the spill. A similar provision was included in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act that the House passed on Thursday. Senator Gardner (R-CO), Tom Udall (D-NM), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and John McCain (R-AZ) joined Bennet to introduce the bipartisan amendment. The measure requires the EPA to make decisions on claims within 90 days, which the agency did on Thursday. The measure also allows for claims that include costs incurred beyond Oct…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=3DDA894A-90DE-9508-26BF-4A41C30E6341	Senator Bennet Announces New Colorado State Director	2016-12-09	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced today that he has hired Julie Levy Duvall to head his Colorado operations, based in Denver. "As a Colorado native with a wide-ranging background, Julie brings diverse experience and enthusiasm to our team," Bennet said. "Her leadership and deep connection to Colorado will be invaluable as we continue to tackle the major challenges facing our nation and our state." Previously, Levy served on the Durango 9R School Board, worked on community and economic development issues, was Director of Government and Public Affairs for BP America, and was Partner and COO at a financial services firm. "I've always respected and admired the Senator's ability to bring people together and find common ground on the most important issues facing our state," Levy said. "I look forward to supporting Michael and our office as we work on behalf of the people of Colorado." Senator Bennet won re-election this fall and will continue to focus on fighting the dysfunction in Washington D.C., while working to create more opportunities for all Coloradans. As State Director, Levy will oversee statewide constituent services and community engagement, as well as the day-to-day operations of Senator Bennet's seven regional Senate offices, located in Denver, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, Durango, Pueblo, and Alamosa. Rosemary Rodriguez will continue to serve the office as Senior Advisor to the Senator.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-helps-secure-30-million-affordable-housing-grant	DeGette Helps Secure $30 Million Affordable Housing Grant	2016-12-08	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) today hailed the decision by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide a $30 million grant that she helped secure for affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization in Denver. The HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) Grant will help the Denver Housing Authority speed up the completion of the Sun Valley Homes redevelopment project. Last month, DeGette wrote a strong letter of support for the project to HUD Secretary Julian Castro. “The Denver Housing Authority has a record of efficiently using federal funds to complete successful revitalization efforts that increase access to affordable housing,” DeGette said. The Sun Valley project will both improve the livability of the area and more than double its housing capacity.” The Denver Housing Authority plans to replace 333 distressed units in the Sun Valley neighborhood and redevelop them into a mixed-income, mixed-model community of 750 new rental units. The project is expected to aid greatly in the city’s efforts to expand affordable housing.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1529	Perlmutter, Gardner, Bennet Measure Paves Way for Commerce City Development	2016-12-08	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC The United States Senate today approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2017, which included a provision introduced byRep. Ed Perlmutter(CO-07) and Senators Cory Gardner (R-CO) and Michael Bennet (D-CO)- the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Amendment. The NDAA will now head to President Obama's desk for signature. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal Amendment allows for an environmental assessment to evaluate the removal of deed restrictions, which currently prohibit thedevelopment of things like transportation infrastructure or retail and housing properties, on land that Commerce City purchased in 2004.Commerce City has been working with federal and state regulators to prove the property's safety, butCongressional action was necessary to remove the deed restrictions and fully allow for residential or industrial use of the property. Theland was formerly a U.S. Army chemical weapons manufacturing facility, but was cleanedup and much of the property was used to establish the Rocky Mountain Arsenal NationalWildlife Refuge.Gardner, along with Bennet,introducedthe Rocky Mountain Arsenal Amendment to change current law to allow restrictions on the deed to be removed or modified if a risk assessment conducted under federal environmental law proves that the property is safefor these new uses. Perlmutterauthored similar languagein the House of Representatives.In July, Perlmutter, Gardner, and Bennet sent aletterto Senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Jack Reed (D-RI), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee respectively, and Congressmen Mac Thornberry (TX-13) and Adam Smith (WA-9), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee respectively, urging them to include the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Amendment in the final conference report of the NDAA. The National Defense Authorization Act's inclusion of the Rocky MountainArsenalis central to Commerce City's potential development of the land it purchased nearly a decade ago,said Gardner.If the land is de…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=396D5728-BDDC-D7B9-461B-F6FB96572087	Bennet Statement on 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Attack	2016-12-07	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today released the following statement on the 75th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor: "Today, we honor those who sacrificed their lives 75 years ago in one of the most horrific attacks on U.S. soil," Bennet said. "We owe a debt gratitude to those who perished on that day and to the monumental sacrifice of the Greatest Generation, whose service helped preserve freedom for Americans here at home and for millions around the globe. Their bravery inspires us to this day and it is in their honor that we commit to caring for all generations of servicemembers and veterans. We are grateful for the courageous Coloradoans who have served to keep us safe."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=A8ED495C-769D-E68C-4159-ED41763FE5F5	Bennet, Senate Pass 21st Century Cures Act	2016-12-07	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Senate today passed the 21st Century Cures Act, which includes several measures written by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, a member of the Senate's health and education committee. The bill received bipartisan support from 94 senators. The bill, now on its way to the President's desk to become law, is a step forward in advancing medical research and innovating drug approval so that patients have access to life-saving treatments. Bennet worked with several of his Republican colleagues on the committee to draft a number of provisions that would build on his past work to reform and modernize the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They include strengthening research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and addressing the mental health crisis. The bill includes more than $4.8 billion for the NIH and $500 million for the FDA. Bennet fought to ensure that the final bill included the funding necessary to implement key provisions. It also included $1 billion for states to combat the opioid abuse epidemic through prevention and treatment efforts. "Researchers and life science companies in Colorado and around the country are developing new cures and treatments that can save and lengthen lives." Bennet said. "The 21st Century Cures Act, developed by both the House and the Senate, will support the research that makes those breakthroughs possible and help us save even more lives." The 21st Century Cures Act includes the following Bennet provisions: The Promise for Antibiotics and Therapeutics for Health (PATH) Act, introduced with Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), would permit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve an antibacterial drug for a limited patient population upon determining that the drug treats a serious or life-threatening condition and addresses an unmet need. In addition, the bill includes several provisions to guide appropriate use of antibiotics approved under this pathway, such as labeling and promotional material requirements. "Superbugs"-or bacteria that…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/opening-statement-of-rep-diana-degette-ranking-member-of-subcommittee-on	Opening Statement of Rep. Diana DeGette, Ranking Member of Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations	2016-12-06	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This is the last EPA hearing this Committee will hold with the Obama Administration. The EPA has not always received the support it deserves from Congress. Even as the Agency has worked to fulfill its mission of protecting human health and the environment, it has faced criticism and attack. Despite sometimes unfair opposition, EPA has commendably responded to unprecedented environmental challenges facing the country and the planet. I would like to highlight some of the agency’s accomplishments. Under the Obama Administration: The EPA has helped bring more than 190 countries together to adopt the Paris Agreement, now considered the most ambitious climate change agreement in history; The EPA has set new standards to reduce mercury and other pollutants from industrial air pollution, including boilers, cement plants, and large waste incinerators; The EPA has enacted the first-ever fuel economy standards for medium and heavy-duty trucks and put in place new fuel standards for passenger vehicles by the year 2025; And, the EPA has developed the Clean Power Plan, which will play a major role in reducing carbon pollution and enhancing air quality. I would like to thank both of our witnesses for your agency’s work. I would also like to commend both of you for your work on the Volkswagen settlement agreement, which we are here to discuss today. I am supportive of efforts to scrutinize this agreement and ensure that VW is held accountable, and I want to ensure that is the purpose of today’s hearing. We are here because of VW’s decision to cheat. For years, VW put tens of thousands of cars on the road that emitted nearly 40 times the NOx levels allowed by law. VW’s decision hurt not only its own customers, who thought they were buying clean cars, but all Americans now faced with dirtier air. The California Air Resources Board, the EPA, and the Department of Justice quickly brought action against VW. Their aim was to both make VW’s customers whole and to mitigate the effect that these cars are …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1528	Perlmutter, 105 Members of Congress Urge Obama to Protect Immigrants Private Data	2016-12-05	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) joined 105 of his colleagues to send a letter to President Obama requesting that he take action to protect the names and private information of those who enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA) programs. The letter specifically suggests an Executive Order that would prohibit the use of DACA enrollees' information for purposes other than originally intended, including for purposes of deportation. According to the Migration Policy Institute, there are 33,000 DACA-eligible individuals in Colorado in 2016, with more than 19,000 application accepted by USCIS as of June 2016. The letter reads, Since the implementation of DACA, we have been able to see firsthand the profound effect that the program has had on the lives of the children and young adults it protects. As a condition of receiving the guarantees of DACA, these children and young adults submitted to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) numerous sources of information to verify identity, including fingerprints and other biometric data. They also underwent background checks and provided their home addresses, where family members may also reside, the letter continued. In asking these undocumented youth for extensive personally identifying information, the Administration effectively asked them to place their trust in the government. Now many of those same Dreamers are wondering whether their trust was misplaced, fearing for their future in the United States, and questioning whether they can or should seek protection under DACA. The letter was endorsed by National Immigration Law Center (NILC), the Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), and Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC). The full letter can be found here and is pasted below: Dear President Obama: We write to express our concerns about the potential misuse of the personal information of enrollees in the Deferred Action…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/21st-century-cures-a-bipartisan-battle-on-disease	21st Century Cures a Bipartisan Battle on Disease	2016-12-03	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	With passage in the House of Representatives of the 21st Century Cures Act that I co-authored with Michigan Republican Rep. Fred Upton, we’re just two steps away from a major victory for U.S. research into causes and treatments for disease. The next few days will decide its fate as the U.S. Senate prepares to vote. More than 700 groups representing patients, health care providers, researchers and others have voiced support for the bill – as has the White House, which provided its enthusiastic endorsement before and just after the House approved it by a vote of 392 to 26. And this very newspaper weighed in, too, noting that the measure is intended to make federal review of research more efficient. This is a watershed moment in this country for biomedical research. With this bill, we bring hope to millions of patients who suffer from cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes and a host of other ailments. Upton and I started working on this measure three years ago. We traveled the country together to gather information about much-needed reforms, and we had tremendous participation in the process from patients groups, medical professionals, academia, and federal and state health care authorities. The consensus view was especially important as we strove to strike a balance between clearing away the hurdles to progress and ensuring safety and efficacy of drugs and devices remain our paramount standard. All of this led to our original bill, which passed the House in July 2015 by 344 to 77. We have worked tirelessly in a bipartisan, bicameral way since then to improve and expand the bill and to smooth the way toward passage through the Senate and on to the president’s desk. The result will help overcome obstacles to medical progress — from discovery to development to delivery — through investing in innovation, incorporating the patient perspective and modernizing clinical trials. Among the key provisions, this consensus version of the bill will: Provide $4.8 billion to the National Institutes of Health, including money for Vice Pr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congress-nears-a-breakthrough-on-medical-research-funding	Congress Nears a Breakthrough on Medical Research Funding	2016-12-02	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	In the coming days, the Republican-controlled Congress is likely to approve legislation that will invest more than $6 billion in public health and medical research over the next decade. It will expedite basic research into new medical devices and disease-curing drugs. It will reform mental health treatment and fund research into brain injuries and Alzheimer’s. The bill authorizes $1 billion to combat the opioid epidemic and $1.8 billion for Vice President Joe Biden’s “moonshot” project to cure cancer. Those highlights are cited with equal enthusiasm by the coalition of Republicans and Democrats who wrote the 21st Century Cures Act and by administration officials hoping it will be perhaps the final significant piece of legislation that President Obama signs. But to Senator Elizabeth Warren, the bill is an enormous giveaway to pharmaceutical companies, a danger to the public, and a legislative license for corporate “fraud,” “bribery,” and “extortion.” “I know the difference between compromise and extortion,” the Massachusetts Democrat declared in a fiery speech on the Senate floor Tuesday. “Compromise is putting together common-sense health proposals supported by Democrats, by Republicans, and by most of the American people, and passing them into law. Extortion is holding those exact same proposals hostage unless everyone agrees to special favors for campaign donors and giveaways to the richest drug companies in the world.” Warren delivered her broadside in a last-minute bid to stop legislation that had been barreling toward passage in the waning days of the 114th Congress. The House initially approved the bill last year, and after negotiations produced a compromise with the Senate, the lower chamber overwhelmingly passed a new version late Wednesday afternoon, 392-26. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has vowed to send the measure to Obama before Congress recesses next week—if Warren and her allies don’t block it first. A day after her floor speech, Warren sent an urgent fundraising plea headlined “Hijacked” …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-overwhelmingly-approves-sweeping-health-measure	House Overwhelmingly Approves Sweeping Health Measure	2016-12-02	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — The House overwhelmingly passed a far-reaching measure on Wednesday to increase funding for research into cancer and other diseases, address weaknesses in the nation’s mental health systems and help combat the prescription drug addictions that have bedeviled nearly every state. The bill, known as the 21st Century Cures Act, also makes regulatory changes for drugs and medical devices, which critics argue lower standards to potentially perilous levels. Passage of the bill in the Senate next week appears likely, even though Senator Elizabeth Warren, Democrat of Massachusetts, has taken to the floor twice to criticize the bill as a windfall for drug companies, with too few safety provisions. “The American people are not clamoring for the Cures bill,” Ms. Warren said on Wednesday, calling it the sort of measure that explains “why people hate Washington.” The bill, which passed 392 to 26, was the product of three years of work, largely in the House, with former and current officials from the Food and Drug Administration and National Institutes of Health — two of the biggest beneficiaries of new funding in the bill — as well as scientists, health care advocates and others. It aims to streamline the federal drug regulatory structure to keep up with advances in biotechnology and other forms of medical research. “We have listened to every group out there,” said Representative Fred Upton, Republican of Michigan and the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which shepherded the bill. “I think we have a pretty good bipartisan bill that’s going to meet everyone’s test of how legislation should be done.” The bill authorizes billions of dollars in new funding for N.I.H. research, much of it directed for Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, including money for the cancer “moonshot” sought by Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., whose son died from complications of a brain tumor last year. The F.D.A. is expected to receive a half-billion dollars, in part to help expand its staff to speed up processes at that …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/us-house-passes-medical-cures-bill-championed-by-diana-degette	U.S. House Passes Medical Cures Bill Championed by Diana DeGette	2016-12-02	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON — A bill that would make sweeping changes to the medical research field passed the U.S. House on Wednesday, getting U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette of Denver that much closer to securing a win for her top legislative priority. The 392-26 vote was a larger margin than the 344-77 vote that backed a 2015 version of the bill, but came as some Senate Democrats and progressive groups raised concerns over whether the measure does too much to help drug and medical-device companies. Every member of Colorado’s U.S. House delegation, except for Rep. Ken Buck, R-Windsor, supported the 21st Century Cures Act. Backers of the bill said they were hopeful they would send the measure to President Barack Obama — who wants to see it passed — before Congress ends its current term. “This is a watershed moment in this country for bio-medical research,” said DeGette, who championed the bill with U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich. “With this bill, we bring hope to millions of patents who suffer from cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes and a host of other ailments.” The next step is the Senate, where liberal lawmakers such as Bernie Sanders, Dick Durbin and Elizabeth Warren have raised concerns about whether the bill would overly weaken standards for the approval of drugs and other therapies in an effort to more quickly get them in the hands of patients. “This bill isn’t about doing what the American people want,” Warren said. “This bill is about doing what drug companies and (political) donors want.” Buck said Wednesday he opposed the bill due to its cost. “It spends too much money. It’s that simple,” he said. Kaiser Health News this week reported that the $6.3 billion measure was one of the most heavily lobbied pieces of legislation this Congress, with more than 1,400 lobbyists involved in trying to influence the bill’s language, which runs roughly 1,000 pages. In this 2016 election cycle, health professionals and the pharmaceutical industry were the two biggest contributors to DeGette’s campaign – giving a combined $275,180, according to the C…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1C426006-B36E-BA0D-284C-7312A0B65376	Bennet Votes to Extend Iran Sanctions Act	2016-12-02	2016	2016-12	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement after Thursday's passage of a bill to reauthorize the Iran Sanctions Act by a vote of 99 to 0. "The overwhelmingly bipartisan vote shows the world that Congress remains steadfast in preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon," Bennet said. "Extension of the Iran Sanctions Act ensures the United States can effectively re-impose sanctions, consistent with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, should Iran violate the agreement." The Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 is set to expire on December 31, 2016. In 2015, Bennet joined Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Brian Schatz (D-HI) to introduce the Iran Policy Oversight Act of 2015, a bill that builds upon the bipartisan commitment to oversight outlined in the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 that passed the U.S. Senate 98 to 1. The bill included a regional security strategy for the Middle East and authorized additional security assistance for Israel.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-overwhelmingly-approves-21st-century-cures-act	House Overwhelmingly Approves 21st Century Cures Act	2016-11-30	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	To watch Congresswoman DeGette's floor speech on 21st Century Cures, click on the image above. "Today the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed 21st Century Cures, the bipartisan bill that I led with Congressman Fred Upton (R-MI), that will dramatically improve biomedical research in America. On the House floor, I urged my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to seize on this once-in-a-generation opportunity to tackle our present and future public health challenges – and they did, by a vote of 392 to 26. I’m humbled and extremely pleased that we are one big step closer to saving millions of lives. The bill now goes to the Senate for a vote."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1522	Local Documentary Film Submitted to Library of Congress	2016-11-30	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. Today MEDIC! was formally submitted to the Library of Congress by the office of U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) and teachers from Westminster High School in Colorado. The MEDIC! documentary film highlights the stories of five brave veterans who served their country and their fellow veterans as combat medics. The film was produced by the faculty and students of Westminster High School and premiered in May 2016. "We are honored to have been able to contribute the film MEDIC! to the Veterans History Project. Hearing our veterans tell their stories in their own words was an once-in-a-lifetime experience, said Chris Williams, video cinema arts teacher at Westminster High School. We are grateful to Congressman Perlmutter's office and his incredible staff for selecting Westminster High School for this important project. We hope that many more people will have the chance to view our film now that it is officially part of the Library of Congress collection. The MEDIC! oral history project and student film showcases the community veterans, students, and Congressional outreach that sustains the Library of Congress Veterans History Project," said Karen Lloyd, VHP Director and a veteran of the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps. MEDIC! is truly a unique and significant piece of history that includes in-depth research, in-house graphics and animation, and its very own original musical score, said Rep. Perlmutter. A big thanks to the faculty and students of Westminster High School and to the Veterans History Project for helping to preserve and share our local veterans' stories. The Veterans History Project (VHP) is a congressionally chartered project and is part of the Library of Congress American Folklife Center.Congress created the Veterans History Project in 2000 as a way to collect, preserve, and make accessible personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war. MEDIC! is the fourth VHP film that Perlmutter's offi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congress-races-to-pass-medical-research-bill-in-lame-duck-session	Congress Races to Pass Medical Research Bill in Lame-Duck Session	2016-11-29	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	"Until now, we haven't talked at all about compromise on the Affordable Care Act," said Representative Diana DeGette, Democrat of Colorado. "From the moment it passed, Republicans started their mantra of 'repeal and replace.' Now that repeal seems to be off the table, I think it's in everybody's interest to make the law work better for our constituents."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/life-saving-legislation-21st-century-cures-act-advances-in-house	Life-Saving Legislation, 21st Century Cures Act, Advances in House	2016-11-29	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON, DC – Vital innovations in biomedical research are within reach, potentially saving countless lives, with the House about to debate its final version of the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) said. “This is a watershed moment for patients, their loved ones and health care professionals across the United States,” DeGette said. “We’re bringing hope to millions of people suffering from cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and a host of other ailments.” DeGette is co-author, together with Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), of the original 21st Century Cures Act (H.R. 6), which the House passed 344-77 in 2015. Negotiations with members of the Senate and with the White House produced a bill that melds House and Senate policies. It includes funding to address the nation’s opioid crisis and to implement Vice President Biden’s “Cancer Moonshot” initiative to facilitate more robust research. The legislation will help overcome obstacles to medical progress – from discovery to development to delivery – through investing in innovation, incorporating the patient perspective and modernizing clinical trials. Among its key provisions, the consensus version of the bill before the House will: Provide $4.8 billion to National Institutes of Health, including: $1.4 billion for President Obama’s Precision Medicine Initiative to drive research into the genetic, lifestyle and environmental variations of disease; $1.8 billion for the “Cancer Moonshot;” and $1.6 billion for the BRAIN initiative to improve our understanding of diseases such as Alzheimer's and to speed diagnosis and treatment. Provide $1 billion in grants to states to address the opioid crisis. Remove the silos at the Food and Drug Administration by transitioning it toward a disease-centric approach, and provide $500 million additional support to the FDA. Catalyze cutting-edge research by supporting potentially transformative efforts and providing opportunities for new researchers. Modernize clinical trials by harmonizing regulati…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pro-choice-caucus-chairs-the-american-people-shouldn-t-be-forced-to	Pro-Choice Caucus Chairs: The American People Shouldnt Be Forced to Spend Another Dime on Panel Designed to Attack Womens Health	2016-11-29	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Diana DeGette (CO-01) and Louise Slaughter (NY-25), co-chairs of the House Pro-Choice Caucus, called on congressional leaders to disband the Select Panel ahead of a vote expected Thursday on a privileged resolution that would provide an additional $800,000 in taxpayer dollars for the panel, which has aggressively targeted women’s health providers and the scientific community. House Republicans are now on course to spend more than $1.5 million funding this partisan attack on women’s health. The congresswomen are again calling on GOP leaders to stop wasting tax dollars on it. “The Select Investigative Panel is nothing but a partisan witch hunt that has wasted taxpayer dollars while stirring up baseless, irresponsible allegations that have intimidated women, health care providers, and scientific researchers. The House majority is now on track to spend more than $1.5 million of Americans’ tax dollars chasing down bogus allegations. Enough is enough. The American people shouldn’t be forced to spend another dime on a panel designed to attack women’s health and intimidate health care providers and researchers. These attacks are likely just a preview of what's to come under a Trump Administration with Republican majorities in Washington. It’s time for Speaker Ryan and the majority in the House to end this political theater and disband the Select Investigative Panel once and for all,” said DeGette and Slaughter.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-seeks-to-prevent-auto-fatalities-with-update-to-50-year-old	DeGette Seeks to Prevent Auto Fatalities With Update to 50-Year-Old Seatback Safety Standard	2016-11-23	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Denver, CO – With families in Colorado and across the country about to hit the roads for the holiday season, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) has renewed her push for authorities to overhaul an outdated federal standard governing car seatback safety and require that the government be notified whenever death or injuries from seatback collapses occur. DeGette and Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CN) today sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urging an update to the 50-year-old seat safety standard that can harm or kill backseat passengers when front seatbacks collapse during a rear-end crash. The Center for Auto Safety estimates the seat safety defect leads to the death of at least 50 children per year. The letter also asks NHTSA to investigate automakers’ apparent failure, as discovered by the lawmakers’ investigation, to comply with the agency’s Early Warning Reporting (EWR) System requirements to submit information on incidents involving death or injury. Finally, the lawmakers call on NHTSA to strengthen EWR and the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) so that the public can know if seatbacks are involved in injuries and fatalities. An ongoing investigation by CBS News found 107 cases of seatback collapse across 35 states that resulted in an injury or death over the last 30 years. Several of those cases that should have been reported to EWR weren’t found in the database, which is required by law. Additionally, the Center for Auto Safety found 3,455 injuries and 326 deaths listed in the EWR in which ‘seat’ was a contributing component, but it was impossible to determine whether a seatback collapse occurred because NHTSA does not require and automakers do not provide information sufficient to do so. In the letter, the lawmakers ask NHTSA to, provide copies of all death and injury reports requested by the agency for those injuries and deaths, and to share any police report information. “NHTSA previously indicated that there was not sufficient d…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-objects-to-sessions-as-attorney-general-due-to-his-regressive	DeGette Objects to Sessions as Attorney General Due to His Regressive Views	2016-11-18	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Denver – Senator Jeff Sessions should not be nominated to serve as the nation’s next attorney general due to his regressive views, said Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO). “As the president’s top advisor on matters of law and justice, the man or woman in this position must possess a firm commitment to civil rights,” DeGette said. “However, Senator Sessions’ regressive record on immigration, LGBT equality and civil liberties, along with his shocking comments on the NAACP and the KKK, make him unequivocally unfit to serve in this role. I urge President-elect Trump not to make this nomination, and instead to make good on his promise to unify our divided nation. And if he does not, members of the Senate must reject Senator Sessions for this critical role.” Sessions is the U.S. Senate’s leading anti-immigration voice, urging severe restrictions on visas and drastically expanded immigration enforcement while blocking practical reforms to our country’s outdated immigration system. While in the Senate, he has vigorously opposed the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and voted for a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. Earlier in his career, when nominated by President Ronald Reagan to be a federal judge, he was turned down by the Senate amid repeated allegations of racist language, criticism of the American Civil Liberties Union and the NAACP, and a purported joke about the Ku Klux Klan. While advising the campaign earlier this year, Senator Sessions supported Trump’s suggestion to institute a ban on Muslims entering the United States and his opposition to the 14th Amendment, which confers citizenship on people born in this country. “This proposed nomination is another disturbing sign of where the Trump administration is headed,” DeGette noted. “If Senator Sessions was not fit to be a federal judge, he's not fit to be Attorney General. His actions and attitudes on civil liberties make him completely wrong for the job.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1536	Perlmutter Holds Second Congressional App Challenge	2016-11-18	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Northglenn, Colo. Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) held the second Congressional App Challenge, a nationwide event that allows students to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application, or app, for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. The 7th Congressional District had a total of seven teams participate two from Northglenn High School and five from Arvada High School. One team from Northglenn created a virtual reality app designed to give the history of Northglenn, while the other team built an app that provided various filters to help showcase clothing. The teams from Arvada designed the same app to help students locate lockers at the school. Northglenn High School's team with the virtual reality app won this year's competition with one of the Arvada teams winning the Rookie of the Year award. Thank you to all the teams that participated in the 2016 Congressional App Challenge. This competition is challenging but rewarding and helps provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their creativity while further engaging in STEM education, said Perlmutter. Congratulations to all the teams - you represent some of the best and brightest students in our community. The Congressional App Challenge was established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013 to help encourage STEM education and learning in high schools across the country. Participation in this year's event grew by 30% from 2015 with 33 states, 123 Congressional Districts and more than 2100 students participating. About 650 original apps were designed as part of the 2016 Challenge. Check out all of the winning apps on the Congressional App Challenge website. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=4DE8B973-33E3-A91B-6D51-CE6A59C6257C	Bennet Statement on Final BLM Record of Decision for Thompson Divide	2016-11-17	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement today regarding the release of the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) final Record of Decision for Thompson Divide: "We introduced the Thompson Divide Withdrawal and Protection Act in 2013 in response to bipartisan requests from Colorado communities and local governments. The ranchers, sportsmen, outdoor enthusiasts, and elected officials who live in those communities feel that speculative leases in the Divide jeopardize their local economies. Today's announcement is a significant step towards addressing those concerns," Bennet said. "In the upcoming weeks and months, we will continue to work with community members and industry to determine whether a legislative compromise can permanently protect the Thompson Divide and provide market-based compensation for those who have just had their leases canceled."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=5657C956-9558-B3EB-5623-8347687D5B46	Bennet Bill to Improve Trail Maintenance and Preservation Passes Congress	2016-11-17	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined Congress this week to send a bill to President Obama that would improve access to America's National Forests through better trail maintenance and preservation. The National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act would make better use of existing resources within the Forest Service to significantly increase the role of volunteers and partners in maintaining the usability and sustainability of the National Forest's trail system. Senators Mike Enzi, R-Wyo. and Michael Bennet, D-Colo. were the prime sponsors in the Senate and Representatives Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., and Tim Walz, D-Minn., in the House. Legislators in both houses passed the bipartisan bill unanimously. "Millions of people every year come to Colorado for some of the best hiking, scenery, and wildlife viewing that the country has to offer," Bennet said. "Our tourism and outdoor recreation industries depend on a well-maintained trail system throughout our national forests. This bill will help the Forest Service do more with less by increasing the use of volunteers to ensure our trails are accessible and safe for all of us to use." "We are thrilled that Senators Bennet and Enzi joined in a bipartisan fashion to move this important bill through Congress," said Tif Rodriguez, chairman of the Back Country Horsemen of Colorado. "At a time of shrinking federal budgets, volunteers and partners will be able to contribute more toward improving access and the public's enjoyment of trails on our national forests." "It's through trails that our members experience our national forests, but it's also how they give back, by volunteering to maintain trails," said Aaron Clark, conservation manager for the International Mountain Bicycling Association based in Boulder. "At times, due to bureaucratic red tape, volunteers get turned away which adds to the trail maintenance backlog and leads to resource damage. IMBA supports this bi-partisan bill because it streamlines the volunteer process, prioritizes maintena…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=828D5F31-BDD8-3C62-89C3-B7193180818C	Bennet Joins Senate Democrats to Urge President-Elect Trump to Keep Promise to "Drain the Swamp" of Corporate Special Interests	2016-11-17	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Today Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 18 U.S. Senators to send a letter urging President-elect Donald Trump to increase transparency during his transition and keep his promises to reduce the influence of lobbyists and corporate special interests during his transition and in his administration. The letter was signed by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Robert Casey (D-PA), Tom Udall (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Al Franken (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Edward Markey (D-MA). "Given your initial decision to allow lobbyists to dominate your transition team, we call on you to be completely transparent about who is working on your transition team, either officially or as unofficial advisors, and making key decisions about how to staff over 4,000 political appointments," the senators write. "Further, we call on you to follow President Obama's example and implement strong, transparent and enforceable ethics rules governing your transition and Administration. For instance, President Obama's transition team did not accept gifts or donations from lobbyists, and your transition should do the same. Additionally, while a limitation on lobbying activities after serving in your Administration is important, you should also include stronger measures, like those adopted by President Obama, that prevent lobbyists who join your Administration from working on policy areas in which they recently lobbied. This will help ensure that officials in the Trump Administration are looking out for the best interests of the American people, not their recently former corporate clients." Full text of the letter is below: November 17, 2016 President-elect Donald J. Trump Trump-Pence Transition Team 1717 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, DC …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/letter-to-president-elect-trump-protests-bannon-appointment-to-key-white	Letter to President-elect Trump Protests Bannon Appointment to Key White House Role	2016-11-16	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) joined fellow House Democrats in calling for President-elect Trump to reverse the appointment of Steve Bannon as his chief strategist. In a letter sent to Trump today, 169 House members said Bannon’s work at Breitbart, an online news and opinion source that publishes bigoted content, makes him the wrong choice to help steer an administration that will unite a divided nation. “As the Executive Chairman of Breitbart News, Mr. Bannon repeatedly and aggressively pushed stories that promote anti-Semitism, xenophobia, and racism,” the House members wrote. “During an interview last summer, Mr. Bannon bragged that Breitbart was ’the platform for the alt-right,’ a movement that upholds White Nationalism while strongly rejecting diversity in any form. Under Mr. Bannon’s leadership, Breitbart has referred to a leading Republican who opposed your election as a ’Renegade Jew,’ suggested ’Young Muslims in the West are a ticking time bomb,’ declared that ’the Confederate flag proclaims a glorious heritage’ and praised the alt-right as a ’smarter’ version of ’old-school racist skinheads.’” The letter made the case that from a new role in the White House, Bannon will further split Americans along the fault lines of race, religion, gender and sexual orientation. “We strongly believe that Mr. Bannon’s appointment will not allow the country to heal and come together as one,” it said. “As one of your top advisors, the White House chief strategist will help set the tone for your administration. The person in this role must be prepared to serve the interests of all Americans, not those of a select few.” House Republicans were invited to sign the letter, but none did. A variety of civil rights groups, including the Anti-Defamation League and the Southern Poverty Law Center, have opposed Bannon’s appointment, and U.S. citizens have protested it via social media and demonstrations across the country. Coloradans have been contacting Congresswoman DeGette’s office to applaud her stance ag…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/trump-personnel-choices-other-actions-should-promote-unity-degette-says	Trump Personnel Choices, Other Actions Should Promote Unity, DeGette Says	2016-11-15	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC -- Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), who serves as Chief Deputy Whip, today issued the following statement about personnel choices made and actions taken as the Trump presidency takes shape: "If we remain a divided country, we won’t rise to our full promise. With the rancorous election past, it is now everyone’s duty – from the grass roots to the top leaders of this great nation – to look beyond party lines, ethnic and religious backgrounds, special interests and other divisions and to make a better future for us all. “We can’t let the gaps grow wider by the day; rather, we must come together as one. “Hateful rhetoric, vandalism and violence are unacceptable. All Americans – including immigrants, people of color, women and girls, and the LGBT community – deserve far better. Each of us can speak out about these matters, express solidarity especially with the most vulnerable and ensure that the rights of all are respected. President-elect Trump is better positioned than most to have his voice heard. “Further, as President Obama noted yesterday when asked about Mr. Trump’s selections for senior appointees in the White House and potential cabinet nominees, ‘Gestures matter.’ Immediate advisors such as Steve Bannon and proposed agency heads work with the president to set the direction for an administration; his selection of them sets its tone. “So far, the news and rumors have been disquieting – especially for people across the country who have been engaged in promoting civil rights, a cleaner environment, sustainable energy and better health care. I hope Republicans, Democrats, Independents and others will work together to build on recent gains in these areas and reassure Americans that, both before and after his inauguration, Mr. Trump intends to represent us all.”	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398245	Polis statement on finalization of Methane and Waste Prevention Rule	2016-11-15	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Today, Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) released the following statement regarding U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell’s finalization of the Methane and Waste Prevention Rule. The final rule will update a 30-year old regulation that for decades has permitted the wasteful release of natural gas into the atmosphere from oil and gas operations on public and Indian lands. The guidance updates regulations for natural gas venting, flaring, and leaks. Additionally, the rule ensures operators are accountable to the taxpayers for royalties on flared gas. “Scientists and climate experts have known for decades that methane emissions have a negative and devastating impact on our climate,” Polis said. “For years I’ve found it troubling that we regulate these leaking and harmful pollutants with a 30-year old regulation. The Methane and Waste Prevention Rule is a commonsense step to prevent the release of these harmful emissions on public lands at an accelerated rate. I commend U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and the Administration for their commitment to update this rule and for making the necessary changes to protect our planet.” Rep. Polis serves on the Committee of Natural Resources and has advocated for restricting the amount of methane released in the environment. In March, Polis joined 75 Democratic Members of Congress in writing to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy, encouraging the agency to finalize proposed rules for new and modified sources of methane emission and to develop proposals to regulate existing sources of methane in the oil and gas industry. Polis has also continued his efforts to protect communities and increase transparency in oil and gas drilling by offering the BREATHE amendment - which he has introduced every Congress since 2011 - the BREATHE amendment would change the aggregation provision under the Clean Air Act and add hydrogen sulfide to the Clean Air Act’s federal list of hazardous air pollutants. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1E63D99D-14E7-241F-DEEC-3104DCA17469	Alamosa Receives Waiver to Continue Regional Air Service to Denver Airport	2016-11-10	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Alamosa, CO - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has granted the San Luis Valley Regional Airport's waiver to be exempted from Essential Air Service (EAS) program requirements, allowing the airport to continue to receive a subsidy that allows for regional air service. The San Luis Valley Reginal Airport lost eligibility for the EAS program in September due to a low passenger numbers caused by inconsistent performance by the airport's main carrier. Bennet led along with Senator Cory Gardner and Congressman Scott Tipton to support the airport's petition for a waiver from EAS requirements. "This is great news for Alamosa County and residents of the San Luis Valley who have been fighting to ensure that their airport continues to be in service," Bennet said. "The San Luis Valley is the gateway to national treasures like the Great Sand Dunes, and this airport is critical for regional economic growth and for community access to areas up and down the Front Range. Today's Department of Transportation order will allow the airport to continue offering regional airline service and supporting the local economy." Bennet has worked to ensure continued service into Alamosa since DOT notified the community that its EAS program status was in jeopardy. The San Luis Valley Regional Airport serves six counties in southern Colorado, spanning an area larger than Connecticut. In October, Great Lakes' contract with the airport expired, and was replaced by Boutique Air. EAS is a U.S. Department of Transportation program that subsidizes airline service for small rural airports. EAS helps to ensure that small communities have access to commercial flights by reimbursing airlines for empty seats on flights to major hub airport.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-brooks-seek-details-from-fda-on-cybersecurity-for-medical	DeGette, Brooks Seek Details from FDA on Cybersecurity for Medical Devices	2016-11-03	2016	2016-11	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	House Energy and Commerce Committee members Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Susan Brooks (R-IN) today asked the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for information about how the agency is working to address potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities in medical devices. In a letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert M. Califf and Director of the Center for Devices and Radiological Health Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, DeGette and Brooks seek details regarding the agency’s plans to further reduce risks of hacking, unauthorized access, or use of malware in medical devices. The need for effective cybersecurity of medical devices has become more important with the increasing use of wireless, internet- and network-connected devices. Up to 15 million medical devices in circulation, ranging from monitors and infusion pumps to ventilators and radiological technologies, are integrated into the nation’s digitized healthcare network, creating possible avenues for cyber-attacks. As cyber threats continue to evolve at a rapid pace, FDA must work to prevent emerging threats, mitigate existing vulnerabilities, and assess the strength of a device’s cyber resilience in both pre-market and post-market contexts. “We applaud FDA and other stakeholders for the steps that have already been taken to protect patients against potential emerging threats,” the letter said. “Nevertheless, we have also seen recent headlines about the potential for unauthorized access in insulin pumps and implantable cardiac devices, among others. As technology will undoubtedly continue to evolve at a rapid pace, we must ensure that FDA is equipped with the appropriate cybersecurity expertise and resources to evaluate not only the current risks to new medical devices, but also how new threats affect the medical devices already in use.” In the letter, DeGette and Brooks pose specific questions to the FDA related to its level of collaboration with medical device manufactures and other stakeholders, efforts to enhance cybersecurity throughout a device’s entire life cycle, personnel exper…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ending-the-hyde-amendment	Ending the Hyde Amendment	2016-10-26	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	The Colorado Statesman By Congresswoman Diana DeGette Recently there’s been a groundswell of support for legislation to right a four-decade wrong: a restriction using federal funds for women’s health care that has predominantly hurt the under-privileged. This ban, known as the Hyde Amendment, prohibits federal funds in Medicaid and other health programs from being used for abortions. Now the restriction stops this coverage for all federal employees, military personnel, Peace Corps volunteers, Native Americans on federal insurance and inmates in federal prisons. Politicians have inserted this provision into law year after year. They did it again in the stopgap spending bill that keeps the lights on in Washington until mid-December. And when Congress returns to Washington the week after the elections, they’re planning once again to renew the prohibition for another year. The impact of this annual assault on women’s constitutionally-protected rights is clear: A woman who seeks an abortion but can’t have one because she can’t afford it is more likely to fall on even harder times, deepening the cycle of poverty. Just think about what that does to individuals and families across this country. Put yourself in the shoes of a poor and frightened young woman who’s forced to carry to term an unintended pregnancy because of the prohibitive cost of an abortion. According to the Guttmacher Institute, one in four women on Medicaid who seek abortions are placed in that position. Now just imagine what impact that unfair burden has on families, on communities – on our society as a whole. Medicaid provides care to millions of women of reproductive age and serves as their lifeline. Women of color – Latina and African American – are more likely to use public insurance programs such as Medicaid to get care. We can’t know these women’s circumstances. We don’t know their finances. What we do know is that every woman should be able to access every option available to her when making a personal decision about whether to terminate a pr…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398240	Tomorrow: Polis to host Third-Annual Hemp Symposium and Legislative Workshop	2016-10-25	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Loveland, Colo.: Rep. Jared Polis, D-Boulder, will welcome over 150 guests to his Third-Annual Hemp Symposium and Legislative Workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 26. The free symposium will bring together experts from the many segments of the industrial hemp industry, connecting and developing this growing network. In addition, it will serve to continue the conversation about the expansion of the hemp industry, and its economic impact on both Colorado and our nation as a whole. Hemp is a growing industry in Colorado. Colorado State University and the University of Colorado are researching ways to develop the new crop after Polis authored an amendment allowing research universities to study hemp. In addition, Colorado is on the verge of having certified industrial hemp seed, which would provide continuity for the industry. The schedule is as follows: 1:00 p.m., Polis gives welcome address about federal hemp legislation. 1:10 p.m., Panel conversation about the past, present, and future outlook of hemp in America. Polis will be moderating. Panelists, include: Michael Bowman, National Hemp Association; Barbara Filippone, EnviroTextiles; Sean Murphy, Miracle Ventures; Morris Beegle, Colorado Hemp Company; Samantha Walsh, National Hemp Association; Rick Trojan, Industrial Hemp Research Foundation. 2:00 p.m., Small group breakout Session I: The sessions include: (1) Industrial Hemp and the Farm Bill, (2) USDA and Industrial Hemp, (3) Grants and Funding for Industrial Hemp, (4) Grassroots Revival, (5) State and Federal Intersection Regarding Industrial Hemp. 2:40 p.m., Small Group breakout Session II. The sessions include: (1) Industrial Hemp and the Farm Bill, (2) USDA and Industrial Hemp, (3) Grants and Funding for Industrial Hemp, (4) Grassroots Revival, (5) State and Federal Intersection Regarding Industrial Hemp. 3:15 p.m., Small groups reconvene into large group and discuss next steps. 4:00 p.m., Adjourn Polis is the lead Democratic sponsor of the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2015, a bill to elim…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=FA96A2C6-F097-CDBC-85A3-31EC3DA591EC	Bennet, Gardner, Tipton Urge FCC to Approve La Plata County Petition for Denver TV	2016-10-25	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	La Plata County, CO - Today, Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and Cory Gardner and Congressman Scott Tipton sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler urging quick approval of La Plata County's petition for inclusion into the Denver television market for satellite television. The letter was included in the county's market modification petition, which was approved today by the La Plata County Commission. The petition asks the FCC to permanently modify the Denver local television market to include La Plata County. This would allow La Plata County satellite subscribers to access Denver broadcast television. Currently, La Plata and Montezuma counties receive television broadcasts from New Mexico rather than Colorado, and thus do not receive local news, sports, and emergency information. "It's commonsense that people living in Colorado should have access to Colorado news, sports, and programming," Bennet said. "We have been working with Montezuma and La Plata counties, satellite providers, and Denver broadcasters for years on this problem and these communities have waited far too long. The approval and submission of this market modification petition is a critical step forward that will bring us closer to resolving this issue. We appreciate the leadership of the La Plata County Commission and their staff to assemble and submit this petition." "For too long, many Coloradans in the Four Corners region have been unable to receive Colorado news, weather, and sports," said Gardner. "Since my time in the House of Representatives, I have worked with members of both parties to bring Colorado TV to the southwest and met with local officials in Colorado to discuss how to resolve the issue. If approved, this bipartisan and locally-driven effort will benefit southwest Coloradans and I'm proud of the work we have done thus far. I strongly support La Plata County's petition to the FCC, and I look forward to continuing to work with interested stakeholders to ensure no part of Colorado is for…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-and-colleagues-to-hhs-improve-patient-counseling-on	DeGette and Colleagues to HHS: Improve Patient Counseling on Contraceptive Options	2016-10-24	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – More than 20 members of Congress who are engaged in women’s health care issues today called on the Obama administration to enhance health providers’ training on women’s contraception options. In a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell led by Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), the House members said, “we must make certain that providers have the training and resources they need to provide quality patient counseling and effectively educate patients about the safety and effectiveness of all forms of contraception so that each woman can select the family planning method that best meets her medical needs and personal preference.” The letter noted that according to the latest available information, nearly 45 percent of pregnancies in the United States were unintentional, a much higher rate than in other developed countries, and the risk of unintended pregnancy among underprivileged women is even higher than the national average. “Unintended pregnancies can lead to negative outcomes for both women and newborns, including poorer preconception maternal health, delayed prenatal care, increased risk of prematurity, and low birth weight,” the letter said. “More can and should be done to reduce these risks and empower women by increasing awareness of and access to a full range of contraceptive options.” The members of Congress asked the Department of Health and Human Services to focus provider resources on patient-centered counseling, gaps in education about safety and effectiveness of different forms of contraception, and confusion about billing, reimbursement and provision of contraceptive services. DeGette, who co-chairs the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, has long been engaged in issues involving women’s health care. In circulating the letter to colleagues, she shared the success of Colorado’s Family Planning Initiative, which has made the full range of contraception available to women at no cost and has received significant national attention for cutting unintended t…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=E09F2DAC-4DFF-EAA1-7FC6-3E92FECD1183	Bennet: FEMA Authorizes Federal Funds to Fight Junkins Fire	2016-10-18	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Denver, CO - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet announced that last night the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to communities to fight the Junkins Fire in Custer and Pueblo Counties. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state's eligible firefighting costs under the federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program. FEMA received the request for federal FMAG funding Monday evening. "Today, our thoughts are with all of the firefighters and first responders working to protect people and property and with the families that have tragically lost their homes," Bennet said. "More than 150 families have now been evacuated as the Junkins Fire continues to burn. These additional federal funds will help ensure that crews have the resources they need to combat this fire effectively and safely. We will continue to communicate with officials on the ground and to support the local affected communities in any way possible." The Junkins Fire started early Monday morning and warm, dry, and windy conditions caused the fire to grow quickly. It has expanded from Custer County into Pueblo County burning more than 15,000 acres and forcing 156 families to evacuate. An additional 147 families are on pre-evacuation notice. The FMAG Program provides federal funding to states, local governments, and tribes for firefighting and emergency protective measures for significant wildfires.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398236	Polis to participate in Facebook Live discussion on International Entrepreneur Rule	2016-10-12	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) will participate in a Facebook Live discussion on the new International Entrepreneur Rule, announced by the Obama Administration in August. The proposed Rule would allow qualified international entrepreneurs to temporarily reside in the U.S. to start or grow a business. The public may comment on the rule through Oct. 17. The Facebook Live discussion is hosted by FWD.us, and it will include entrepreneurs and experts on immigration. The public is invited to ask questions about the rule through Facebook. The panel will address the economic impact of international entrepreneurship and obstacles to foreign entrepreneurship. International entrepreneurship is vast in the U.S. Immigrant-owned business employ one in 10 American workers, and immigrants have founded roughly 25 percent of small businesses in America. WHO: Rep. Jared Polis Nigel Sharp, CEO, Stateless; Co-Founder, Lionsharp Andrea Guendelman, Co-Founder and CEO, BeVisible Lang Mei, Co-Founder and CEO, iNFormu WHAT: Facebook Live discussion about the new International Entrepreneur Rule WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 13 from 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. (Mountain Time) WHERE: www.Facebook.com/FWDus Prior to serving in Congress, Polis founded several startup and tech companies, including ProFlowers.com and Techstars. In Congress, he uses his business expertise to serve on the Committee on the Education and the Workforce. Through the Congressional Caucus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Polis began Startup Day Across America, a nationwide day to raise awareness of entrepreneurial activity and discuss how federal policy can help entrepreneurs thrive. In addition, Polis has been a leader on fixing our broken immigration system. In October 2013, he introduced the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, a comprehensive immigration reform bill that would h…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/members-of-congress-ask-nhl-for-more-concussion-information	Members of Congress Ask N.H.L. for More Concussion Information	2016-10-10	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Four members of Congress want more answers from Gary Bettman, the commissioner of the N.H.L., about what the league is doing, or not doing, about concussions in hockey. In July, Bettman denied the link between concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a brain disease, in response to pointed questions from Senator Richard Blumenthal, Democrat of Connecticut. Last week, another letter was sent to Bettman saying, in part, that “the N.H.L. must do its part to reduce the risk of head injuries and to make hockey, at all levels, a safer game.” In comparing N.H.L. concussion protocols unfavorably with those of the N.F.L., Major League Baseball and U.S. Soccer, representatives from the House’s Committee on Energy and Commerce asked a series of seven questions about concussion protocol, concussion statistics, the rationale for rules changes over the years and the league’s plans to make the game safer for players ranging from the youth to professional levels. They also questioned the role of fighting in the N.H.L. and noted that emails among Bettman and other league officials had indicated that, privately, they acknowledged that fighting could lead to concussions and long-term health problems. “Despite this candid discussion in email of the dangers of fighting and the related incidence of head injuries, the N.H.L. continues to publicly deny a connection between head injuries and long-term complications such as C.T.E.,” the letter read. The same congressional committee has long taken aim at the N.F.L. In May, it accused the N.F.L. of steering money for concussion research away from critics, something the league denied. The letter to Bettman was signed by four Democrats on the committee: Frank Pallone Jr. of New Jersey, Gene Green of Texas, Diana DeGette of Colorado and Jan Schakowsky of Illinois. It was Schakowsky who at a hearing this year asked Jeff Miller, the N.F.L.’s senior vice president for health and safety policy, if there was a link between football and degenerative brain diseases like C.T.E. “The answer to…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-helps-denver-and-rtd-win-major-grant-to-improve-service	DeGette Helps Denver and RTD Win Major Grant to Improve Service	2016-10-05	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Denver, CO – Congresswoman Diana DeGette helped secure a $1.35 million grant, announced today, enabling Denver and the Regional Transportation District to improve service to riders by studying transit oriented development (TOD). In a letter in June to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx, DeGette made a strong case for the project. It was selected competitively under the TOD Planning Pilot Program. “This is exciting news for Denver and the entire region,” DeGette said. “We’ve experienced incredible growth while also making worthwhile investments in transit through the RTD. With this grant, RTD and the city of Denver can do even more to help businesses, residents and stakeholders identify next steps to improve economic development and promote increased transit ridership.” The grant comes as Denver works to create its first-ever citywide urban transit master plan, which will be used to identity and prioritize high-capacity transit opportunities. Funds will be used to study the Colfax Connected Corridor, running roughly from downtown Denver to Aurora, which could serve as a template for all non-rail TOD corridors throughout Denver.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congress-needs-to-get-it-right-this-time-on-911-victim-bill	Congress Needs to Get it Right This Time on 9/11 Victim Bill	2016-10-03	2016	2016-10	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	If the bipartisan “buyer’s remorse” Congress feels for passing a popular bill for victims of Sept. 11 over the president’s veto came from a lack of information, then three members of Colorado’s congregation who opposed it should be applauded for at least doing their homework. Voting against the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, or JASTA, was a hard vote in an election year — but it was the right one. Yes, it’s easy to imagine the negative campaign ads that could be developed. No one wants to be accused of not supporting the families who lost their loved ones in terrorist attacks on U.S. soil. Colorado Reps. Ken Buck, a Republican, and Democrats Diana DeGette and Ed Perlmutter were among only 78 members of Congress who opposed JASTA. We wish others had been as thoughtful. JASTA, once you get past its nod to 9/11 victims, subjects American diplomats, military members, intelligence agents and officials to the danger of lawsuits. The new law flouts the longtime protections granted by the principle of sovereign immunity of nations, and also risks a drain of economic investment from countries like Saudi Arabia angry or nervous about it. JASTA is broad. It allows lawsuits against foreign nations in federal court for involvement in acts of terrorism on U.S. soil. However, it was specifically aimed at allowing families of victims of 9/11 who believe that Saudi Arabia played a role in the attacks to file suit. President Barack Obama vetoed the bill and it’s the first time Congress has been able to muster enough votes for an override during his tenure. In his veto message, Obama said the measure “undermines core U.S. interests.” Almost immediately after the bill became law, Republican leaders in the House and Senate expressed concern that the bill might have unintended consequences and called for a fix when Congress returns in November. They chided Obama and his administration for failing to articulate concerns, despite the veto letter. Whether or not a lame-duck Congress waiting for its term to end can make anythi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=3DAD263B-4E2F-2424-AF86-FC1CBADF38F5	Bennet Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Supporting Inclusion & Engagement of Latinos in Conservation Efforts	2016-09-30	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet introduced a bipartisan resolution, S.Res.602, with 16 senators that supports the commitment of the Latino community to engage in conservation efforts. The resolution also recognizes the contributions of the Latino community to conservation and wildlife protection, and urges increased access to public lands for all Americans. The resolution comes during Hispanic Heritage Month, which occurs every year from September 15 through October 15. "Our country, and in particular Colorado, has some truly spectacular landscapes that everyone should have an opportunity to experience," Bennet said. "The Latino community has strong ties to our public lands and we should support opportunities for their engagement and inclusion in conservation. This bipartisan resolution acknowledges the role of Latinos in ensuring these natural areas continue to be accessible to future generations." In addition to Bennet, the resolution is cosponsored by: Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Harry Reid (D-NV), Tom Udall (D-NM), Chris Coons (D-DE), Ed Markey (D-MA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), Al Franken (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Dean Heller (R-NV). An identical companion resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA-32) and Carlos Curbelo (R-FL-26). The resolution has the support of the Latino Conservation Alliance, which includes the Hispanic Access Foundation (HAF), GreenLatinos, Latino Outdoors, Hispanic Federation, and Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO), as well as Protgete-Conservation Colorado, City Wild, Environmental Learning for Kids (ELK), Continental Divide Trail Coalition, and the Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy, and Research Organization (CLLARO). "Latinos are passionate about enjoying the outdoors and hold a strong belief that we have a…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=0929A7A7-CD99-0974-1D5C-3236AA49F9D4	Bennet Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Supporting Inclusion & Engagement of Latinos in Conservation Efforts	2016-09-29	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet introduced a bipartisan resolution, S.Res.602, with 16 senators that supports the commitment of the Latino community to engage in conservation efforts. The resolution also recognizes the contributions of the Latino community to conservation and wildlife protection, and urges increased access to public lands for all Americans. The resolution comes during Hispanic Heritage Month, which occurs every year from September 15 through October 15. "Our country, and in particular Colorado, has some truly spectacular landscapes that everyone should have an opportunity to experience," Bennet said. "The Latino community has strong ties to our public lands and we should support opportunities for their engagement and inclusion in conservation. This bipartisan resolution acknowledges the role of Latinos in ensuring these natural areas continue to be accessible to future generations." In addition to Bennet, the resolution is cosponsored by: Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Harry Reid (D-NV), Tom Udall (D-NM), Chris Coons (D-DE), Ed Markey (D-MA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), Al Franken (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Dean Heller (R-NV). An identical companion resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA-32) and Carlos Curbelo (R-FL-26). The resolution has the support of the Latino Conservation Alliance, which includes the Hispanic Access Foundation (HAF), GreenLatinos, Latino Outdoors, Hispanic Federation, and Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO), as well as Protgete-Conservation Colorado, City Wild, Environmental Learning for Kids (ELK), Continental Divide Trail Coalition, and the Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy, and Research Organization (CLLARO). "Latinos are passionate about enjoying the outdoors and hold a strong belief that we have …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-colleagues-name-pueblo-veterans-clinic-after-local-hero	DeGette, Colleagues Name Pueblo Veterans Clinic After Local Hero	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congress today approved a bill co-sponsored by Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) to name a medical health clinic for veterans in Colorado after a war hero from Pueblo. The legislation renames the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Pueblo as the ``PFC James Dunn VA Clinic” to honor the legacy of the late James Dunn, a decorated World War II Veteran and Pueblo native. “I am incredibly proud to have helped secure this fitting tribute for a local hero,” said DeGette. “Mr. Dunn represents a generation of men and women who bravely accepted the task of protecting our nation, serving America on and off the battlefield. It is our duty to honor them, particularly those who went above and beyond the call of duty.” James Dunn served with the Marines in the Pacific Theater of World War II. While stationed in Guadalcanal, he led his platoon to safety under heavy enemy fire. For his heroism, he was awarded the Navy Cross, the second highest military decoration a Marine can receive. The legislation to name Pueblo’s VA clinic in his honor was supported by a large contingent of veterans’ groups including the United Veterans Committee of Colorado and the American Legion, Department of Colorado.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-reed-say-fda-approval-of-artificial-pancreas-is-a-major	DeGette, Reed Say FDA Approval of Artificial Pancreas is a Major Breakthrough	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – On behalf of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus, co-chairs Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Tom Reed (R-NY) hailed as a major breakthrough today’s approval by the Food and Drug Administration of a first-ever commercial version of an artificial pancreas system to improve the treatment of type 1 diabetes. “This is a huge step forward for medicine, and it will be transformative for countless people with type 1 diabetes, including my own daughter,” DeGette said. “Our work to urge the FDA forward in this process, and to fund the research through the National Institutes of Health, has paid off. I look forward to providing similar support to the next-generation technologies that are also on the verge of improving outcomes for people with this disease, which is common but devilishly difficult to address.” “We care about getting critical healthcare resources those living with this disease. This is something I am all too familiar with. My son is a type 1 diabetic. It’s only right that we continue to support these innovations and celebrate the improvement in the quality of life for so many who struggle with this disease,” said Reed. The technology approved by the FDA for patients ages 14 and up is the Medtronic MiniMed 670G hybrid closed-loop system, which consists of insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors and software to automate the delivery insulin as needed, as a healthy pancreas does. For the past five years, DeGette and Reed have been urging the FDA to expedite review of the technology. In addition, they worked to support and expand the Special Diabetes Program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which has funded artificial pancreas research. The SDP was reauthorized in 2013 and is due for reauthorization in 2017; DeGette and Reed are urging their colleagues to approve it.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/in-support-of-national-security-degette-votes-against-veto-override	In Support of National Security, DeGette Votes Against Veto Override	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), Chief Deputy Whip, today said U.S. national security interests compelled her to vote against overriding President Obama’s veto of legislation allowing lawsuits against the Saudi Arabian government over the September 11 attacks. “This bill was meant to address an unthinkable loss, but it opens the door to further damage,” DeGette said of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA). “It would erode the principle of sovereign immunity that protects U.S. officials working on behalf of our country overseas. Without that protection, which is rooted in reciprocity, we jeopardize their safety and, by extension, our country’s security.” JASTA would create a new exception to sovereign immunity, which protects countries and their diplomats from lawsuits. The bill is meant to let families sue Saudi Arabia for alleged complicity in the 9/11 tragedy.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398234	Rep. Polis leads bi-partisan effort urging house leadership to fully fund PILT	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Rep. Polis leads bi-partisan effort urging house leadership to fully fund PILT Washington, Sept. 28: Today, Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) led a bi-partisan group of 95 Members of Congress, alongside Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah), urging House leadership to secure full funding for the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) Program. “I am fortunate to serve a district that is home to acres and acres of majestic public lands,” said Polis. “We have to protect these public lands and compensate the communities that help maintain them. Fully funding programs, like PILT, will simultaneously safeguard the wilderness and allow our communities to thrive.” Nearly 1,900 counties across 49 states receive PILT funding to compensate for lost tax revenue due to the large amounts of federal lands in their counties, which are un-taxable according to federal law. A breakdown of the payments by state and county can be found here. In a letter sent to House leadership, Polis and Stewart wrote, “If Congress fails to fully fund the PILT program by the end of the year, public lands counties across the nation will be unable to provide essential public services such as: law enforcement, search and rescue, public health and critical transportation infrastructure.” Current PILT funding must be extended within Fiscal Year 2017 appropriations. Stewart and Polis also urged leadership to enact a fiscally responsible, long-term and sustainable solution to fully fund the program beyond next year. The full text of the letter can be found here. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398235	Polis joins Grijalva, questions GOP commitment to tribal consultation as Majority prevents vote on Dakota Pipeline Amendment	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Washington – Republicans late yesterday blocked a vote in the House of Representatives on an amendment to the Water Resources Development Act by Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) and Ranking Member Raúl M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.) that would have made completion of the controversial Dakota Access Pipeline dependent on the Army Corps of Engineers publishing a full environmental impact statement for the project. The amendment, originally offered on Monday, was technically “ruled out of order” by the majority of the House Rules Committee even though it complied fully with House rules. “We must respect tribal sovereignty – period, end of story,” Polis said. “The Dakota Access Pipeline needs to be stopped before it destroys the environment and tribal cultural heritage. It’s past time we to start move beyond crude oil and invest in renewables. Our planet depends on it.” Had it passed, the amendment would have clarified the process for approving or rejecting the pipeline, which is in limbo amidst federal court proceedings and an ongoing executive branch review of tribal consultation procedures. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=48DE1BB8-B981-8596-B20E-D460D24DE04B	Bennet Statement on the Passing of Shimon Peres	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement on the passing of Shimon Peres, the former Prime Minister and President of Israel: "Our thoughts are with the people of Israel as they mourn the passing of Shimon Peres. He was an exemplary world leader who helped shape the special relationship the United States shares with Israel. His extraordinary commitment and vision strengthened the unbreakable bond between our two countries. His leadership and commitment to the state and people of Israel will serve as an example to future generations." In 2014, Bennet joined Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), along with Representatives Joe Kennedy (D-MA) and Trent Franks (R-AZ) in the House, to pass a bipartisan, bicameral bill that honored President Peres with the Congressional Gold Medal. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award in the United States. It is awarded to individuals, organizations, or events that have made a tremendous contribution to the history and culture of our country.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=FE6A71C7-C325-945E-BB1A-98113E964385	Bennet, Senate Pass $1.1 Billion to Advance Zika Research	2016-09-28	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and his Senate colleagues today approved $1.1 billion in emergency funding to continue research toward a cure for the Zika virus. The most recent data indicates that in the U.S. and its territories, more than 23,000 Americans have been infected with the virus, including 2,097 pregnant American women who show some sign of infection. "Finally, Congress has put politics aside to address the very serious threat that Zika poses," Bennet said. "This funding ensures that researchers can continue their crucial work to develop a vaccine that can protect millions of Americans. We're hopeful a cure can be found very soon." Bennet has led efforts in the Senate to approve the funding, which has been stalled in Congress since the Administration made its request back in February. In May, Bennet joined the Senate, which overwhelmingly voted to advance a bipartisan bill to provide $1.1 billion in emergency funding to combat and prevent the spread of the Zika virus. Subsequently, the House passed an inadequate and irresponsible bill that included only $622 million, one third of the Administration's request. Bennet has urged both chambers to work across the aisle to finalize a serious funding package, including calling on Congressional leaders to reconvene both chambers of Congress to pass a clean funding bill to fight Zika. Ahead of the Senate's vote in May, he pressed Congressional leaders to consider and pass emergency funding. In February, he joined 45 senators in urging the Administration to coordinate an interagency response plan to address the spread of the Zika virus both at home and abroad. Bennet and a group of senators introduced a bill to fund the request and called on the Senate Appropriations Committee to quickly approve the funding. In April, he joined his Senate colleagues in urging Senate leaders to immediately pass the emergency supplemental funding request to help combat the Zika outbreak. Earlier this year, Bennet visited the CDC's Division for Vector-Bor…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398230	Polis launches Congressional Blockchain Caucus	2016-09-26	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	WASHINGTON - Today Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) released the following statement regarding the formation of the new bipartisan Congressional Blockchain Caucus dedicated to the advancement of sound public policy toward blockchain-based technologies and digital currencies. “The blockchain has boundless potential," Polis said. "From cryptocurrencies to supply chains to banking to property titling, blockchain-based solutions have the ability to decentralize cybersecurity and revolutionize many industries. It's vital for Americans, businesses, and members of Congress to learn about blockchain so the U.S. can continue to secure its stance as the global leader of ingenuity." "The Blockchain Caucus will focus on raising awareness, advancing ideas that foster growth, and safeguarding consumers. I'm excited to work alongside Rep. Mulvaney, and I look forward to all that we'll accomplish," Polis added. A blockchain is a public ledger that is the main technological innovation powering cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. By using math and cryptography, blockchain supplies an open decentralized database of every transaction involving value. This creates a record of authenticity that is verifiable by the entire user community. Analysts and experts predict that blockchain could potentially transform 21st century transactions involving money, goods, property, and much more. The Congressional Blockchain Caucus will seek to educate, engage, and provide research to help policymakers implement smart regulatory approaches to the issues raised by blockchain-based technologies and networks. Polis launched the bipartisan caucus alongside Rep. Mick Mulvaney (R-S.C.). Polis has been at the forefront of educating lawmakers about blockchain and digital currencies. In 2014, he hosted a Bitcoin Demo Day at the U.S. Capitol to give lawmakers a chance to ask questions to industry experts and address concerns about the emerging technology of online currency. Polis, the founder of several startups and tech companies, including Pro…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=9EB9ECDB-7F49-C64A-0785-147D6859B80B	Bennet, Crapo Urge Leadership to Fully Fund PILT for FY 2017	2016-09-22	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and Republican Senator Mike Crapo from Idaho led a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid urging them to work together to ensure that the PILT program is fully funded for Fiscal Year 2017. This fiscal year, Colorado communities received more than $35.5 million to fund critical services like police, fire protection, and emergency response. In the letter the senators wrote: "For more than 40 years, the PILT program has played a critical role in supporting our local communities by providing resources to nearly 1,900 counties across 49 states to offset lost property tax revenue due to the presence of tax-exempt federal lands within their jurisdictions. "If Congress fails to fully fund the PILT program by the end of the year, public lands counties across the nation will be unable to provide essential public services such as law enforcement, search and rescue, public health and critical transportation infrastructure." The PILT program compensates rural counties for federal lands that cannot be taxed, including parks, forests, Bureau of Land Management lands and wildlife refuges. Funding for each county is determined by a formula and is based on the number of acres of federal land within each county or jurisdiction and the population of that county or jurisdiction. PILT funding not only provides certainty and strengthens rural counties, but also improves infrastructure and public safety funding programs such as county led Search and Rescue operations. Bennet and Crapo have continuously fought in the Senate to fully fund the PILT program, and in November of 2015 led a bipartisan coalition urging Senate leaders to fully fund the program. Last August, Bennet also cosponsored a bill to permanently fund the PILT program and the Land and Water Conservation Fund and fund the Secure Rural Schools program for six years. In addition to Bennet and Crapo, the letter is also signed by Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Cory…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/democrats-walk-out-before-house-fetal-tissue-panel-approves-contempt	Democrats Walk Out Before House Fetal Tissue Panel Approves Contempt Measure	2016-09-21	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Republican members of a special House committee investigating fetal-tissue transactions voted Wednesday to hold a biotechnology firm in contempt of Congress, moments after Democrats walked out of the Capitol Hill meeting in protest. The Select Investigative Panel, created by the House GOP to examine links between abortion providers and medical researchers, subpoenaed California-based StemExpress earlier this year seeking a variety of records. While the firm provided much of the information the panel sought, Republicans say it did not cooperate completely, withholding employee names as well as banking and accounting statements. The panel’s chairman said Wednesday that the records are crucial to determining whether StemExpress is illegally profiting from the fetal tissue trade. The company has said it loses money on those transactions. “The panel is entitled to this information so we can answer the question. … Did companies improperly profit?” said Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.). “A subpoena is not a suggestion. It is a lawful order, and a subpoena is to be complied with.” Democrats, who opposed the panel’s creation and have called for its shuttering, renewed their objections to the Republican inquiry at the Wednesday meeting. They raised several procedural and substantive objections to the contempt-of-Congress resolution and ultimately walked out of the meeting before the final vote after an unsuccessful attempt to adjourn the meeting. “This whole process is illegitimate, and we are not willing to participate in it,” Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), the panel’s top Democrat, told reporters afterward. Another panel member, Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), called the proceeding a “kangaroo court.” The next steps for the contempt resolution are unclear. The full House would have to approve the measure before it is referred to the Justice Department for prosecution. After the vote Wednesday, Blackburn said that “we will leave that for leadership to decide.” Democrats said that because the panel is officially an Energy and …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1480	Perlmutter Statement on VA Inspector General Report of Aurora VA Replacement Medical Facility	2016-09-21	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Perlmutter Statement on VA Inspector General Report of Aurora VA Replacement Medical Facility f t # e Washington, D.C., September 21, 2016 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) issued the following statement regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Inspector General (IG) report on the mismanagement of the Denver VA Replacement Medical Facility in Aurora, CO: “I’m glad the VA Inspector General completed the review of the Aurora VA Medical Center. This report confirms the mismanagement of the project by former VA officials and details the numerous mistakes made by not controlling the design of the project and improperly managing the contract. This is precisely why the Army Corps of Engineers is now in charge of construction in Aurora and the VA was stripped of its authority to construct other large projects. Under the Army Corps’ management the project is now over 75% complete, and I will continue to work to ensure the VA has the resources and plans necessary to open the medical center as soon as possible to deliver high-quality healthcare to Rocky Mountain Veterans.” ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=64B45C2E-6A6D-63F6-D613-FF98181746D1	Bennet Statement on VA Inspector General Report on Mismanagement of Aurora VA Replacement Medical Facility Project	2016-09-21	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Inspector General (IG) report on the Denver VA Replacement Medical Facility under construction in Aurora: "The VA Inspector General's report confirmed that the VA fundamentally and completely failed in management of this project by repeatedly not enforcing the budget and ignoring warnings from multiple sources, including from Congress. We are glad the current VA leadership has concurred with the IG's recommendations and support the IG's continued monitoring to ensure the mistakes made on the Denver facility never happen again. We have already stripped the VA of its authority to manage the construction of major medical facilities, and we will continue to scrutinize the agency's future projects. "Focus must now be on the completing construction and the activation of the facility so the Rocky Mountain region veterans can get the world-class care they deserve. We will continue oversight to ensure activation goes smoothly and urge the VA to consult with the community in that endeavor." Since taking office, Bennet has been committed to ensuring the hospital is completed. He helped lead efforts among Colorado's Congressional delegation to pass a bill to ensure construction of the hospital would be fully funded. When reports of delays and mismanagement surfaced, he raised concerns regarding delays to VA officials and urged the agency to work with the Army Corps of Engineers. He also offered several legislative proposals to help complete the hospital, and he led efforts to bring the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee to Colorado for a field hearing at the hospital. Bennet has also consistently fought to hold the VA accountable for mismanagement within the agency. Bennet secured an amendment in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 with Senator Cory Gardner that directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study on the administration and oversigh…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/select-panel-votes-are-designed-to-drive-researchers-healthcare	Select Panel Votes are Designed to Drive Researchers, Healthcare Providers Out of Business, DeGette Says	2016-09-20	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO) today said tomorrow’s hastily-arranged Select Panel votes are designed to harass researchers and will put their life-saving work at risk. “Enough with the smear campaigns, fishing expeditions and endless stream of subpoenas,”said DeGette, who is co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus and a senior member of the Panel. “Congressional bullying to drive researchers and healthcare providers out of business is a clear abuse of power and has to stop.” On Monday evening, Chair Marsha Blackburn announced to media and then to Panel members that on Wednesday they would vote on whether to begin contempt proceedings against StemExpress. Among its wide range of services to researchers around the globe, the small biotechnology company procures fetal tissue with the aim of using stem cells for vital research that will accelerate prevention and cures of significant medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis. StemExpress was a key target of the deceptively-edited videos created by anti-abortion extremist David Daleiden and the “Center for Medical Progress.” Republican Panel members have embraced Daleiden’s cause from the outset of this investigation. The Panel will also consider a resolution authorizing Chair Blackburn to release a researcher’s May 11, 2016, deposition. Chair Blackburn’s broad and burdensome demands for documents and other tactics to imply criminal misconduct by this company and others have had a chilling effect on researchers and healthcare providers, DeGette said. “Overly aggressive investigations have already drummed one tissue procurement company out of business, created pressure that resulted in a significant drop in donations to StemExpress, and put a stop to promising studies and clinical trials,” DeGette noted. “Dangerous and inflammatory rhetoric by Panel members has been echoed verbatim to justify attacks on healthcare providers, including in Colorado Springs. We have long called for this panel to be disbanded befor…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398228	McConnell, Wyden, Paul, Polis gain insight to advance industrial hemp research	2016-09-20	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	After U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), and Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) raised concerns about funding for industrial hemp pilot projects last year, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) clarified which industrial hemp research programs are eligible for existing federal research funding. USDA issued the guidance following a bicameral letter from the legislators. The guidance clarifies that industrial hemp would be eligible for National Institute of Food Agriculture (NIFA) funding, though research must take place in one of twenty-eight states with certified pilot industrial hemp programs. Eligible applicants are institutes of higher education and state departments of agriculture. However, guidance issued in August by the USDA, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raised further questions about other industrial hemp policies, which are inconsistent and conflict with federal law and the Agricultural Act of 2014 (also known as the Farm Bill), specifically regarding transportation, the definition of industrial hemp, and the sale of hemp. “USDA determining that industrial hemp research projects are eligible to compete for federal funding through existing grant programs is a good development for Kentucky farmers and helps ensure that industrial hemp pilot programs can continue with federal assistance,” said Senator McConnell. “It also demonstrates that the federal government agrees that this is a crop worth researching. I look forward to continuing to work with hemp researchers in my home state and my colleagues in Congress to ensure that progress on industrial hemp research continues.” “Ensuring funding is available to our states and universities will help Oregon put more hemp plants in the ground and propel industrial hemp research forward,” Wyden said. “I will continue working with my colleagues to get answers to the questions that remain so pilot projects like Oregon’s get the resources they need…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=D1588058-DD16-170C-33AD-B42646E45FE6	Bennet Statement on Recent Terror Attacks	2016-09-19	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement on the recent attacks in Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York: "Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the communities where these attacks occurred. These events serve as a painful reminder of the threats of we face both abroad and here at home. Law enforcement officials have our full support to bring those responsible to justice for these cowardly attacks. We must continue to do everything we can to degrade terrorist groups' ability to recruit, inspire, and train potential attackers."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/fight-against-opioid-heroin-epidemic-needs-more-funding-says-diana-degette	Fight Against Opioid, Heroin Epidemic Needs More Funding, Says Diana DeGette	2016-09-16	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette called on Congress to better fund the fight against the prescription opioid and heroin epidemic in Colorado and throughout the nation on Friday, saying legislation to address the issue thus far needs to go further. “It’s good to have the right policies in place,” the Denver Democrat said at the Stout Street Clinic downtown, “but you have to fund the programs or it doesn’t work.” DeGette pointed to statistics showing Colorado is second worst in the nation in prescription drug abuse and highlighted the rising number of deaths from opiates. She said the problem is exaggerated in rural areas, where there are fewer treatment resources. “Washington has been talking about this issue for a long time, and frankly not enough has been done,” DeGette told reporters at a news conference about the issue. “Earlier this year we passed legislation targeted at opioid abuse and it was signed into law. It was a big step in beginning to revise our country’s laws around opioid abuse, and frankly it came too late.” She added: “Even though we passed that legislation, the funding mechanisms were woefully low in that bill. There simply was not enough funding to give states and localities the money they need to combat opioid abuse.” Heroin use has reached crisis levels across the nation, including in Colorado, where overdoses are up almost 350 percent in the past five years, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The DEA says heroin has become its main focus in the state. Kent MacLennan, executive director of Rise Above Colorado, a youth drug prevention organization, said prescription drug overdose deaths in Colorado have eclipsed the state’s rate of traffic fatalities. Dr. Beth Cookson, who works in opiate treatment at the Stout Street Clinic, said treating those dependent on opiates is difficult and expensive and takes a combination of medication and therapy. Abstinence-based methods have only a roughly 15 percent success rate. The clinic, which serves Denver’s homeless community, has begun giving out …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=AFE1C894-C1BB-84E7-9CE7-2A3C4350EF33	Bennet, Burr Introduce Small Business Employee Retirement Savings Act	2016-09-16	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Richard Burr (R-NC) this week introduced a bipartisan bill to make it easier for small businesses to set up retirement programs for employees. The Small Business Employee Retirement Savings Act increases the retirement plan start up tax credit to $5,000, incentivizes auto enrollment, and removes restrictions to increase participation in retirement plans. "More than 990,000 Coloradans work for a small business, yet small business owners often find it difficult to offer retirement plans to their employees," Bennet said. "Our bill improves the tax incentives for small businesses to establish retirement plans and provides new incentives to help increase employee participation. This bipartisan proposal represents an important first step we can take to make it easier for Coloradans to save for retirement." "I am proud to join Senator Bennet in introducing this bipartisan legislation to help more small businesses offer retirement plan benefits to their employees," said Senator Burr. "This legislation gives small business employers better tools to empower employees when it comes to saving for retirement." The Small Business Employee Retirement Savings Act includes three key provisions that make it easier for employees of small businesses to prepare for retirement: Increasing the size of the start up credit - Currently, small businesses (with less than 100 employees) receive a tax credit totaling 50% of the costs of establishing a new retirement plan or $500-whichever is less. The credit can be taken for three years and can be used to offset the costs for starting up a new 401(k) plan, a SIMPLE retirement plan, or a simplified employee pension (SEP). The bill would increase the credit from $500 to $5,000. Creating a credit for new plans that offer auto enrollment - The bill creates a new $500 per year tax credit (for up to three years) for small businesses that offer new retirement plans that include auto enrollment. It would also apply to businesses that …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1471	Perlmutter Introduces Legislation to Help Mitigate the Impacts of Data Breaches	2016-09-15	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) introduced new legislation encouraging American businesses to fortify their systems and networks in an effort to mitigate the impact of cyber-attacks and data breaches. The Data Breach Insurance Act (H.R. 6032) provides a two-prong approach by providing a fifteen percent tax credit to companies who purchase data breach insurance coverage and adopt the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework or any other standard approved by the Secretary of Treasury. The tax credit will help offset some of the costs associated with implementing the cyber frameworks such as risk assessments, hardware/software upgrades, employee education, training, and vendor testing. In 2014, there were 783 reported data breaches in the U.S. which exposed 85.6 million records, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. The average cost of a data breach is now $3.8 million, up from $3.5 million a year ago, according to data security research organization, Ponemon. And IBM estimates businesses are attacked an average of 16,856 times a year – or 46 attacks on every business every day, nearly two attacks an hour. “Whether in the private sector or government sphere, hacks expose vulnerabilities and compromise our personal information including our financial records and identifications. They inconvenience our lives requiring new credit cards, credit monitoring and ID theft protection, and they can cost companies their reputations and billions of dollars,” said Perlmutter. “As more and more businesses become targets of cyber-attacks, it is more important than ever for them to be protected. That’s why I’m introducing this legislation to help do more to prevent massive data breaches that compromise millions of American’s private and personal information.” The Data Breach Insurance Act helps businesses realize the value proposition of purchasing data breach insurance and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework as risk mitigation tools. This legislation will also he…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=A9D989E5-B51C-CB76-A7D1-1E57EDBB4893	Bennet-Authored Provision to Expedite Gold King Mine Reimbursements Passes Senate	2016-09-15	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - The Senate today passed a bill to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) with a measure sponsored by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet to expedite the reimbursement of emergency response costs assumed by States, Indian tribes, and local governments following the Gold King Mine spill. The bill also includes a Bennet-authored provision that will help protect Colorado waters from invasive species, such as quagga and zebra mussels. "More than a year after the Gold King Mine spill, it's unacceptable that Colorado communities are still fighting for reimbursements from the EPA," Bennet said. "Our bipartisan amendment requires EPA to fulfill its commitment to the State, tribes, and local communities who responded quickly to the spill. It also ensures the EPA continues to work with local communities to develop a long-term water monitoring program for the Animas River." Bennet joined Senators Cory Gardner (R-CO), Tom Udall (D-NM), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and John McCain (R-AZ) to introduce the bipartisan amendment to address the response costs associated with the Gold King Mine spill. The measure creates an expedited review process for claims to be reviewed and paid by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It also allows for claims that include costs incurred beyond October 31, 2015. The amendment requires the EPA to pay out all costs eligible for reimbursement that are consistent with what is typically reimbursed under federal law. It calls for the EPA to pay out all claims within 90 days and notify parties as to whether or not it will pay the claim within 30 days of reaching its decision. Lastly, the amendment establishes a water quality monitoring program and authorizes the EPA to reimburse the States, Indian tribes, and local governments for this monitoring activity. The invasive species provision expands a program that authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to establish watercraft inspection stations for invasive species in local reservoirs. The langua…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=B79DD9F0-44A0-05FD-9A51-82162D2B3067	Bennet Statement in Recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month	2016-09-15	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month. The festivities, which occur from September 15 to October 15, celebrate the many histories and cultures which make up the Latino community and the countless contributions Latinos have made to the country. "One of Colorado's greatest attributes is the diversity of cultures that converge in our state, including a rich Hispanic history. Hispanics have played a significant role in revitalizing our communities and strengthening our economy. We need to keep fighting for issues that are important to the Hispanic community, such as improving college access and affordability, increasing job opportunities, and fixing our broken immigration system. "Hispanic Heritage Month is a good time to reaffirm our commitment to the Hispanic community by honoring their valuable contributions in the shaping of our country, to mark the progress that has been attained in the community, and to continue to support the next generation of Hispanics." Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 as a week-long celebration under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a month-long observance under President Ronald Reagan in 1988.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=EDBC239A-E1C6-B210-38E8-86A62CF16287	Bennet, Hatch Introduce Bill to Support Innovative Career and Technical Education	2016-09-15	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Orrin Hatch (R-UT) issued the following statements after introducing the Innovation for Tomorrow's Workforce Act of 2016. The bill follows another Bennet-Hatch bill which encourages schools to expand dual and concurrent enrollment opportunities for students in career and technical education courses. "High quality career and technical education programs can provide important access to the knowledge and skills needed for job and career success for students across Colorado," Bennet said. "At a time when a great education has never been more important, we must create opportunities for those on the ground to innovate and create new approaches to providing key workforce skills. In addition to creating a fund for innovation, this bill will help encourage states and communities to engage in pay for success initiatives. It also promotes vital work-based learning opportunities and apprenticeships, which can be effective pathways to successful careers and well-paying jobs." "Last year we enacted a valuable education overhaul that is beginning to address shortcomings of No Child Left Behind, especially the needs of Utah's transformative education system," Hatch said. "This new legislation will supplement those efforts by providing resources to encourage and support better pathways from the classroom to the workplace. Utah companies are eager to improve STEM education in our schools to prepare students to work in our ever-changing workforce and global economy. This bill is the product of discussions with many Utah stakeholders to ensure that we build on Utah's successes by allowing funds to be used for Pay for Success initiatives and to bolster students' success by making free, high-quality Open Education Resources more accessible." Background: The Innovation for Tomorrow's Workforce Act of 2016 would amend current law to create a grant program to identify and support innovative activities to improve career and technical education (CTE) and to align workforce skill…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=F1F032D6-611D-28E8-808C-2393B38A895E	Bennet Calls on Stakeholders to Resolve Issues Surrounding In-State TV Broadcasts for La Plata, Montezuma Counties	2016-09-15	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today joined Senator Cory Gardner in calling on all stakeholders to come together and finally resolve issues around La Plata and Montezuma Counties' access to local in-state broadcasts from satellite providers. Currently, the counties receive television broadcasts from New Mexico rather than Colorado, and thus do not receive local news, sports, and emergency information. "Coloradans in La Plata and Montezuma counties have waited far too long to access local news, sports, and weather," Bennet said. "We've made significant progress in the last year helping to bring local broadcasts to the Four Corners region. I look forward to convening a meeting with our Congressional delegation, Denver broadcasters, satellite companies, and local officials to find a resolution once and for all." Since coming to the Senate, Bennet has worked alongside officials from La Plata and Montezuma Counties to help residents access in-state broadcasts for news, weather, emergency information, and sports. Over the past several years, Bennet's office has worked with local officials to provide technical assistance and resources to help the counties petition the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to add the counties to the Denver television market, and have engaged with the Denver broadcasters and satellite companies to be responsive to the counties requests. In 2010, Bennet pushed Congress to require the FCC to report on potential solutions to bring Colorado broadcasts to the two counties. He then urged the FCC Commission to use that report as a first step to resolve the issue and encouraged Coloradans to submit their feedback during the comment period for the report. The FCC issued the report in August 2011 along with feedback from Coloradans and Bennet. The report outlined several potential alternatives to resolve the issue. Bennet also worked with former Senator Mark Udall to introduce several different bills to allow access to Colorado TV, including a 2014 bill that would allo…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/opening-statement-of-rep-diana-degette-ranking-member-subcommittee-on	Opening Statement of Rep. Diana DeGette Ranking Member Subcommittee on Health and Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations; Joint Hearing on The Affordable Care Act on Shaky Ground: Outlook and Oversight September 14, 2016	2016-09-14	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	As Prepared for Delivery Mr. Chairman, I’m wondering something about the Affordable Care Act. Do you know if it covers treatment for déjà vu? There seems to be a mass outbreak of that on Capitol Hill when it comes to the ACA; here are some of the symptoms: Between the health subcommittee and the oversight subcommittee on which I’m ranking member, we’ve held over 40 hearings on the ACA since it became law in 2010. We have been through six years of repeated votes to repeal and undermine the law. We’ve seen any number of Administration officials interrogated by hostile members of Congress about their work to implement the law. These same officials have been the target of countless letters requesting briefings and documentation of every aspect of their work. Despite the hours and hours spent on these efforts, House Republicans have nothing to show for it. Instead of conducting good-faith review of the issues followed up by thoughtful, targeted legislation to improve the law -- as Congress did on previous major pieces of legislation like the Medicare Part D program -- this Congress has used its oversight powers to highlight failures while offering no solutions. And today will be more of the same. We had two hearings this Congress on the ACA’s state insurance marketplaces. But we will hear again today about how some states struggled to set up exchanges and make them work as efficiently as possible. We had a hearing earlier this Congress about the co-ops, and I’m sure we will hear again from the Majority today that many co-ops have failed or are facing challenges. I’m not denying that these are issues worthy of congressional attention. But what we will not hear from the Majority are meaningful solutions to these challenges—despite the fact that many experts say they exist. More interestingly, I am guessing, we will hear nothing about how the law is reforming the delivery of health care to millions. Highlighting solutions or making important course corrections requires a willing Congress. And at this poi…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=F7E8ACF8-4A8E-1C89-A253-1DEB4F1B82A2	National Farmers Union Presents Bennet with Golden Triangle Award	2016-09-13	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - The National Farmers Union (NFU) honored Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today with the 2016 Golden Triangle Award, the organization's highest legislative honor. The annual award is presented to members of Congress who have demonstrated leadership and support policies that benefit America's family farmers, ranchers, fishermen, and rural communities. "Colorado's farmers and ranchers and our $40 billion agriculture industry help drive our state's economy," Bennet said. "Their input was invaluable as we tackled the Farm Bill, which we passed in 2014 and continues to provide more certainty for our producers, and rural communities. Listening directly to Colorado farmers will help us ensure that they have the resources needed to continue to provide food and fuel to Colorado and America." This is Bennet's seventh Golden Triangle award. As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Bennet helped craft the Farm Bill with the help of Coloradans across the state. He was also selected to serve on the conference committee convened to work out the differences between the House of Representatives and Senate versions of the bill. Bennet helped ensure that Colorado priorities were in the final version of the Farm Bill, including a strengthened crop insurance program, improved conservation easements, reauthorization of the livestock disaster program, important forestry measures for reducing the risk of wildfires, and the continuation of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funding for Colorado counties. The Golden Triangle Award is based on NFU's symbol - a triangle with "legislation" and "cooperation" forming the sides and "education" the base. The Golden Triangle Awards have been presented every year since 1988.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=93FCB3AF-4201-978A-6B15-E9BBD2CAE7BC	Bipartisan Group of Senators Introduce Measure to Expedite Gold King Mine Spill Recovery	2016-09-12	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Gardner (R-CO), and Tom Udall (D-NM) along with Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Martin Heinrich (D-NV), and John McCain (R-AZ) today introduced an amendment to the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) to address the response costs associated with the Gold King Mine spill, and direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to work with affected States, Indian tribes, and local governments on a long-term water quality monitoring program of the rivers contaminated by the spill. The Gold King Mine spill occurred on August 5, 2015 and resulted in the EPA's release of three million gallons of contaminated water into the Cement Creek, affecting waterways in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, the Southern Ute reservation, and the Navajo Nation. The bipartisan amendment expedites the reimbursement of emergency response costs assumed by States, Indian tribes, local governments, and individuals following the spill, and is intended to include costs that did not conclude by October 31, 2015. The EPA has stated the agency will not reimburse response costs after this date apart from limited exceptions. Additionally, the amendment requires the EPA to pay out all costs eligible for reimbursement unless the agency proves with substantial evidence that the cost is not consistent with what is typically reimbursed under federal law. The measure also requires the EPA to pay out all claims within 90 days and notify parties as to whether or not it will pay the claim within 30 days of reaching its decision. Lastly, the amendment establishes a water quality monitoring program and authorizes the EPA to reimburse the States, Indian tribes, and local governments for this monitoring activity. "It's been more than a year since the Gold King Mine spill and it's unacceptable that the EPA still hasn't fully reimbursed Colorado communities for their costs. We've been pushing the EPA to fulfill their long overdue commitment to the State, Indian tribes, and local governments who responded quickly …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1462	Perlmutter Statement on the 15th Anniversary of September 11, 2001	2016-09-11	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Perlmutter Statement on the 15th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 f t # e Lakewood, CO, September 11, 2016 Lakewood, CO - U.S. Rep. Perlmutter (CO-07) released the following statement in memory of the 15th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks: “Fifteen years have passed since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, yet the events of that day remain as a vivid and painful memory for all of us. Today and every day, we remember the thousands of lives lost and the families devastated by the attacks. We also remember the courage demonstrated by so many Americans that day, particularly our remarkable and courageous first responders, firefighters and medical personnel who saved countless lives. September 11, 2001 forever changed the course of U.S. history, but that dark day has also become a testament to the strength and resiliency of the American spirit.” ### f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=5FCB35C2-C6B7-C438-B876-286703714F13	Bennet Statement of 15th Anniversary of 9/11	2016-09-11	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Denver, CO - Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement in remembrance of the 15th anniversary of 9/11: "Fifteen years ago, thousands of innocent lives were tragically ended in the terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC. 9/11 was a horrific event that changed the course of our nation and the world. Just as they did 15 years ago, communities across the country of every background, faith, and ethnicity are coming together to honor the fallen and remind each other to never forget. Today, we celebrate the heroes that saved lives, memorialize the thousands of innocent lives lost, and recognize the sacrifice of those who protected our nation on that day and every day since."	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=B76FEF9D-58DD-AB63-0682-825081BD68FB	Bennet, Colleagues Press House Leadership for Vote on Zika Funding	2016-09-09	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 28 senators today urging House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) to bring the $1.1 billion Zika funding legislation passed by the Senate to the House floor for a vote. As of today, there are more than 18,000 cases of Zika reported in the United States and its territories. "Zika is now well established in the United States with cases of local transmission by mosquitoes being reported in multiple areas of Florida, as well as the U.S. territories," the senators wrote. "While babies die, pregnant women and communities suffer, adults worry about future long-term neurological risks from Zika, and U.S. service members and military bases are affected, Congress remains deadlocked in partisan politics. Now is the time to lead and to show the American people that Congress will act to protect them." In their letter, the senators note the broad bipartisan support in the Senate to act on Zika funding. They cited the passage of the Blunt-Murray compromise amendment to the FY17 MilCon-VA appropriations bill, which included the support of 23 Senate Republicans. The letter also reminds the House Speaker that more than 50 health, public health, provider, and other organizations have urged Congress to pass a Zika funding bill that can be signed by the president immediately. Current funds to address Zika have begun to expire, leaving the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention without the resources to effectively combat the virus. Due to Congressional inaction, the White House has supplemented funding to address Zika by reallocating funds from other public health threats like Ebola. This funding, however, will run out in September. In addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Sheldon…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=9F7F8F7F-B108-C28C-7C4F-3110635DFD2D	Bennet-Backed Provision to Protect Colorado Waters from Invasive Species Included in Water Resources Bill	2016-09-08	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - The Senate this week began debate on a bill to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) which includes a provision backed by Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet to protect Colorado waters from invasive species, such as quagga and zebra mussels. Bennet has worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and water leaders from across Colorado to ensure the language was included in the bill before the Senate. The additional federal assistance will help Colorado maintain an effective invasive species program through a collaborative federal, state and local partnership. "Colorado's rivers and reservoirs are precious resources in our state," Bennet said. "Not only are they a source of clean drinking water for communities throughout Colorado, but they also help drive our agriculture and outdoor recreation industries. Unlike many surrounding states, Colorado's strong inspection program has protected our state from harmful invasive species. Given recent funding challenges, it's especially important that the Army Corps and other federal agencies continue to be involved in the watercraft inspection program." The provision expands a program that authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to establish watercraft inspection stations for invasive species in local waterways. The language expands the current program to include two river basins in Colorado - the South Platte and Arkansas Rivers. It also authorizes an additional $25 million for the establishment and operation of inspection stations owned and operated by the Army Corps in those river basins. This could provide funding for several reservoirs in Colorado including Chatfield, Cherry Creek, John Martin, Bear Creek and Trinidad Lake. "We have watched with alarm the spread of quagga and zebra mussels across the country and throughout our nation's water storage and delivery infrastructure," said Eric Kuhn, General Manager of the Colorado River District in western Colorado. "This provision comes at a particularly critical time when Colorado budget c…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/degette-congress-must-act-to-protect-us-from-zika-virus	DeGette: Congress Must Act to Protect U.S. from Zika Virus	2016-09-07	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	The Colorado Statesman By Congresswoman Diana DeGette Congress has returned to Washington, having failed throughout the spring and summer to take meaningful action on some of the nation’s most pressing problems. Thanks to Republican legislators’ intransigence, we are now confronted by an issue that grew substantially worse while we were away: the spread of the Zika virus on American soil. Fortunately, Colorado faces little threat of an outbreak, as researchers at Colorado State University recently proved. The mosquito that spreads the disease doesn’t thrive in our climate. There could be isolated cases involving travel to Zika-affected areas or intimate contact with people who have traveled there, but no mass spread is expected. However, in meetings and at events throughout August, constituents raised justifiable concerns with me about Zika. They’re rightly concerned that the country is grappling with an ailment that only recently emerged on the world’s consciousness and is directly affecting Americans now. Throughout the year, I’ve vocally supported President Obama’s request for nearly $2 billion for Zika research, prevention and treatment. Democrats throughout Congress have done the same. But the majority refused to fully fund that effort. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says current Zika funding will run out when the fiscal year ends on September 30. And that’s a critical point in our fight against this persistent and pernicious disease. Clinical trials on a possible vaccine, which have just gotten under way on a limited scale through the National Institutes for Health, can’t be carried out with no funding. In fact, NIH says it’s irresponsible to start any larger trials unless we can see them through. There are infants in Zika-affected area who show no signs of the virus now, but may do so as they develop. Longitudinal studies tracking their progress will be impossible without sufficient support. And even though infection rates will drop with the arrival of cooler temperatures, th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/degette-slaughter-call-for-gao-investigation-into-laws-restricting-women	DeGette, Slaughter Call for GAO Investigation into Laws Restricting Womens Access to Reproductive Care	2016-09-07	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Washington, DC – Congresswomen Diana DeGette and Louise Slaughter (D-NY), co-chairs of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, today called for a Government Accountability Office investigation into the many barriers women face at the state and local levels when trying to access reproductive medical care, including abortion services. “We are very concerned about growing trends in the enactment of state and local laws that make reproductive health services inaccessible to women,” DeGette and Slaughter wrote in a letter to Gene Dodaro, Comptroller General of the United States. “Without realistic access to care, many women lack any practical ability to exercise their constitutional right to choose. GAO’s study pursuant to this request will support us in our efforts to ensure the women’s fundamental reproductive rights are both meaningful and protected.” In 1973, the Supreme Court made clear that the Constitution protects a woman’s choice to have an abortion in the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. The Court reaffirmed this right in June in its decision in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt, which struck down Texas H.B. 2, a state law that placed extreme and unnecessary regulations on abortion providers. The decision also further clarified the “undue burden” standard as it relates to a woman’s fundamental right to have an abortion. Nevertheless, many states have restricted access with policies targeting clinics, doctors, or women themselves. In the letter to Comptroller General Dodaro, DeGette and Slaughter expressed concern about the negative impact that Targeted Regulations of Abortion Providers, often referred to as “TRAP laws,” are having on women across the country. The congresswomen remain concerned that many state and local laws continue to deprive women of any meaningful right to choose, restricting their constitutional rights. Click here to read the letter.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=7088C65F-688A-A48C-E557-D04DD8E1C8D6	Bennet: Congress Needs to Stop Playing Politics with Zika Funding	2016-09-06	2016	2016-09	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement on the Senate's vote on a bill that provides funding for Zika research while cutting funding from other public health priorities, including protecting families from getting the Zika virus in the first place. The bill failed to advance in the Senate. "It's ridiculous that after a seven-week recess, the Senate has returned to Washington to vote on an unserious bill that has already failed to move forward twice before. This partisan bill makes completely unnecessary cuts to important public health priorities. Congress needs to stop playing politics with the health of the millions of families living in areas that are affected by mosquitoes carrying the virus. We need to pass the bipartisan Senate bill as soon as possible." The Administration recently warned Congress that funding to help fight the Zika virus could dry up by the end of the month. It also said it would shift $81 million from cancer research to the Zika virus to help continue research until Congress is able to approve additional funding. In February, the Administration requested $1.9 billion for researchers to fight Zika. In May, Bennet joined the Senate, which overwhelmingly voted to advance a bipartisan bill to provide $1.1 billion in emergency funding to combat and prevent the spread of the Zika virus. Subsequently, the House passed an inadequate and irresponsible bill that included only $622 million, one third of the Administration's request. Bennet has urged both chambers to work across the aisle to finalize a serious funding package, including calling on Congressional leaders to reconvene both chambers of Congress to pass a clean funding bill to fight Zika. Ahead of the Senate's vote in May, he pressed Congressional leaders to consider and pass emergency funding. In February, he joined 45 senators in urging the Administration to coordinate an interagency response plan to address the spread of the Zika virus both at home and abroad. Bennet and a group of senato…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/senior-democrat-says-republicans-privately-open-to-aca-fixes-after-election	Senior Democrat Says Republicans Privately Open to ACA Fixes After Election	2016-08-30	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Modern Healthcare Everyone agrees the Affordable Care Act exchanges need some fixes. Now a senior House Democrat says Republican leaders are telling her privately that after years of all-out opposition to the law, they are open to working with Democrats after the November elections on measures to improve the functioning of the exchanges.Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Co.), the top Democrat on the Energy and Commerce subcommittee on oversight and investigations, said in an interview that she has had a number of private conversations with senior Republicans who have told her they realize the ACA is here to stay and that they can't yank coverage away from the millions of Americans who have benefited. They have told her that “after the election we need to seriously talk about how to improve it.”In those discussions with Republicans, whom she declined to name, they did not offer specific proposals. She said much will depend on whether Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton wins the election, and whether Democrats or Republicans control the Senate and the House.DeGette is known as someone who can reach across the aisle and strike deals with Republicans. She is the chief Democratic sponsor of the 21st Century Cures Act, a major bill to expedite federal approvals of new prescription drugs and medical devices. It overwhelmingly passed the House last year and currently is being considered by the Senate. She said she is in close contact with Energy and Commerce Committee chairman Fred Upton (R-Mi.), Senate HELP Committee chairman Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Democratic Senate leaders, and the White House, and is optimistic that comprehensive legislation to accelerate access to new medical products will pass this year.Upton's office did not return a call for comment by deadline.To strengthen competition on the exchanges, candidate Clinton has proposed additional premium subsidies and tax credits for consumers, stronger risk protections for insurers, and the establishment of public plans to compete with private insurers. The Ob…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398214	Polis criticizes private immigration detention centers, welcomes action	2016-08-30	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Boulder, Colo. – Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) welcomed news that the Dept. of Homeland Security will review its use of private contractors to operate immigration detention centers. Colorado has a massive, private, 1,500+ bed immigration detention facility located in Aurora, just off of I-70. The Dept. of Homeland Security’s decision follows the Department of Justice’s announcement on Aug. 18 that it will end its use of for-profit prisons. "The majority of immigrants who are subject to our immigration detention system – including many asylum seekers, women and children – are held in expensive, private facilities that filter billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded government contracts to two morally bankrupt corporations. Taxpayers are forced to pay over a hundred dollars a night per person for months on end,” said Polis. “If the use of private facilities is detrimental to our criminal justice system, as the Dept. of Justice recently determined, it follows that private facilities should also be avoided in our civil immigration system. For-profit detention centers with tiered pricing schemes incentivize the prolonged detention of the greatest number of immigrants possible and are fundamentally inconsistent with our values as a nation. Taxpayers deserve better,” Polis added. Polis has been an advocate for reducing the use of immigration detention centers and closing private immigration detention centers. In 2012, Polis called for the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate incidences of sexual violence against immigrants in the custody of the Department of Homeland Security. He has authored several columns on the topic, and is a vocal proponent of comprehensive immigration reform. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398211	Ski Train to Run this Winter	2016-08-24	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	Ski Train to Run this Winter f t # e Washington, August 24, 2016 Frisco, Colo., Aug. 24: Rep. Polis released the following statement regarding news that the Ski Train from Union Station in Denver to Winter Park will re-open this winter. “After talking with members of the Colorado Transportation Commission, I’m glad to hear they announced a grant for the ski train. With the fresh dusting of snow on the mountains today, the ski and snowboard season is around the corner, and I am happy the train is on schedule to return. Our mountain communities rely on people’s ability to get up to the mountains and recreate,” said Polis. ### f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/aetna-decision-exposes-weaknesses-in-obama-s-health-care-law	Aetna Decision Exposes Weaknesses in Obamas Health-Care Law	2016-08-17	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	Insurance giant Aetna’s decision to stop offering much of its individual coverage through the Affordable Care Act is exposing a problem in President Obama’s signature health-care law that could lead to another fraught political battle in Congress. Aetna’s announcement Monday night was the latest sign that large insurers are losing money in the Affordable Care Act’s marketplaces, heightening concerns about the long-term stability of a key part of Obama’s domestic policy legacy. But addressing this issue could open the door to a nasty political fight, given that some Republicans have vowed to repeal the law outright. If insurers continue to lose money, more are likely to withdraw from the marketplaces, a move that would reduce choices for consumers and could contribute to higher premiums. In one county, Aetna’s exit in 2017 could leave no insurers offering policies through its marketplace. Aetna said it will exit 11 of the 15 states where it offers coverage through the Affordable Care Act, widely known as Obamacare. That affects about 80 percent of its customers covered through insurance marketplaces. The marketplaces, known as insurance exchanges, were created to provide coverage for Americans who cannot get affordable health benefits through a job. A key aspect of the health-care law, the marketplaces allow people to purchase insurance online with subsidies based on their income. Earlier this month, Humana said it will cut back its participation on the exchanges from 15 states to 11. On an earnings call in July, UnitedHealth Group chief executive Stephen Hemsley announced that his company plans to remain on “three or fewer exchange markets.” In a reversal of expectations, Anthem said it is projecting mid-single-digit losses on the individual plans it sells on the exchanges for 2016. And Cigna has said that it is losing money on the exchanges, although the insurer is planning to expand its marketplace presence to three new states in 2017. The health-care law is likely to prompt another heated political battle, reg…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=8A4786B0-456A-14D8-83BC-37104C11A93F	Bennet Holds Roundtable Discussion with Women Business Owners in Colorado Springs	2016-08-17	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Colorado Springs, CO - Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet met with Colorado women who own small businesses in El Paso County to discuss the challenges they face when starting and growing a business. "One of the strengths of Colorado's economy is the number of successful small businesses that are not only responsible for employing hardworking Coloradans, but also for driving innovation," Bennet said. "Our state is an ideal place to start and grow a small business and we need to keep it that way by continuing to provide the opportunities and incentives that allow them to thrive. Today's roundtable was a great way to connect with these entrepreneurs and hear what's important to them firsthand." Since coming to the Senate, Bennet has worked to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs to start and grow their small businesses, which fuel our economy. Bennet played an integral role in creating and bringing the patent office to Denver. He also co-authored the bipartisan CROWDFUND Act that is now helping small businesses raise capital. He has also proposed legislation to allow small businesses to expense, or write off, up to $1 million in capital investments in a given year, which would free up capital quicker to invest in new purchases and help them grow.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://degette.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/democrats-seek-reversal-of-ban-on-federal-abortion-funding	Democrats Seek Reversal of Ban on Federal Abortion Funding	2016-08-16	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Diana DeGette	D000197	degette.house.gov	legacy	NEW YORK — The law that bans federal funding for Medicaid coverage of most abortions is now in the spotlight some 40 years after it was passed by Congress, emerging as an election issue in the national debate over the procedure. First approved in 1976, and renewed annually ever since as part of the congressional appropriations process, the Hyde Amendment makes exceptions in cases of rape or incest, or when a pregnancy endangers a women’s life. For most of its existence, the amendment had broad bipartisan support in Congress, but that’s now changed. At their recent national convention, Democrats for the first time included in their platform a call for the Hyde Amendment to be repealed. Their presidential nominee, Hillary Clinton, is embracing that stance, even as it risks creating friction within the party. IT’S COMPLICATED The amendment’s supporters depict it as essential in ensuring that taxpayers who oppose abortion do not have to subsidize it. Critics assail the policy as discriminatory, making it difficult for low-income women to obtain a legal medical procedure that’s readily accessible for more affluent women. “Access to abortion shouldn’t depend on your zip code, and it shouldn’t depend on your pocketbook,” said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights. For now, repeal of the Hyde Amendment is a long-term goal, not an imminent likelihood. Even if Clinton wins, Democrats would need improbably large gains in Congress to have a chance of ending the policy during her first term. An extra complication: A handful of Democratic senators support the amendment, including Bob Casey of Pennsylvania, Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Clinton’s own running mate — Tim Kaine of Virginia. Abortion-rights leaders were dismayed when Kaine reiterated his personal opposition to repeal. “We sincerely hope that he will continue to educate himself on what Hyde means to the most vulnerable women in this country and join us in fighting this injustice,” said Ilyse Hogue, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America. P…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=1DD8BEB5-D256-09C4-67B5-B58645074B82	Bennet Visits PharmaJet in Golden, Highlights Need for Emergency Research Funding for Zika	2016-08-16	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Bennet has led the fight in the Senate for emergency research funding to combat Zika virus PharmaJet working with NIH on clinical trial for Zika vaccine Washington, DC - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today visited PharmaJet in Golden, where the Colorado-based device company is involved in clinical trials with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to eventually deliver a Zika vaccine to high-risk patients. NIH clinical trials for Zika that incorporate PharmaJet's vaccine delivery system could be delayed if Congress does not approve emergency research funding soon. Bennet has led the fight in the Senate to pass more than $1 billion to combat the Zika virus. "Colorado businesses like PharmaJet are on the leading edge of innovation in the fight to combat Zika and provide a real solution for Americans," Bennet said. "There are serious consequences when the only national clinical trial for a vaccine is at risk of being delayed, which is all the more reason Congress should get back to work and pass a clean and serious bill to help our researchers fight the spread of the disease. Zika is a public health emergency, and it is unconscionable that Congress hasn't taken it seriously. We've been calling for action since February, and the longer Congress waits, the greater the threat is to Americans." PharmaJet developed a needle-free technology for vaccine delivery and is currently working with the NIH on clinical trials to help deliver a potential vaccine to prevent the spread of the Zika virus. Following clinical trials, any Zika vaccine would then need to go before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for final approval. The Administration recently warned Congress that funding to help fight the Zika virus could dry up by the end of the month. It also said it would shift $81 million from cancer research to the Zika virus to help continue research until Congress is able to approve additional funding. In February, the Administration requested $1.9 billion for researchers to fight Zika. In May, Bennet joined th…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=C2F2849D-5EDC-80A1-0223-785DE3C380F9	Bennet, Western Senators Push for Increased Access to Great Outdoors	2016-08-12	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington, D.C. - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, along with Senators Jon Tester (D-MT), Tom Udall (D-NM), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM), are urging their colleagues to permanently reauthorize and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) as bipartisan negotiations take place over the Energy Policy Modernization Act. In a letter to the Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, the four senators highlighted the importance of LWCF. "For the last 50 years, LWCF has been one of our nation's most successful conservation tools. LWCF has supported projects that increase opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other forms of outdoor recreation in every state in the nation," the senators wrote. "LWCF strengthens our economy and enhances quality of life in our communities." The Senate and House are currently negotiating a final energy reform bill and the senators want to ensure that permanent reauthorization of LWCF stays in the final bill. "Despite high profile attempts to transfer federal lands to states, we firmly believe that keeping public lands in public hands is key to maintaining our western way of life," the senators added. The letter to Senators Lisa Murkowski and Maria Cantwell can be read HERE. Since coming to the Senate, Bennet has fought to strengthen the LWCF. Last year, he introduced a bipartisan bill with Republican Senators Richard Burr of North Carolina and Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire to permanently reauthorize the LWCF. He has also fought to fully fund the program.	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1448	Perlmutter Statement on DEA Marijuana Announcement	2016-08-11	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Perlmutter Statement on DEA Marijuana Announcement f t # e Lakewood, Colo.-, August 11, 2016 Lakewood, Colo. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) marijuana-related actions announced August 11, 2016: "Today's announcement is a real missed opportunity. While I appreciate the expanded research capabilities, the fact is, federal law still conflicts with state laws on this issue. I will continue to work with both sides of the aisle in Congress to remedy the inconsistencies, especially with respect to banking." ### f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://polis.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398202	UPDATED TELEPHONE TOWN HALL SCHEDULE FOR AUGUST	2016-08-07	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Jared Polis	P000598	polis.house.gov	legacy	UPDATED TELEPHONE TOWN HALL SCHEDULE FOR AUGUST f t # e Colorado Second Congressional District, August 7, 2016 Rep. Jared Polis will hold two telephone town halls in August. Speak with Rep. Polis directly about the issues that matter most to you. Join our telephone town hall on: - Tuesday, August 9 from 6:00 - 7:00 P.M. (MST) at 855-756-7520, access code 32649#, - Wednesday, August 17, 6:00 - 7:00 P.M. (MST) at 855-756-7520, access code 32678#. f t # e	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1447	Perlmutter Celebrates Startup Day Across America	2016-08-04	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Lakewood, Colo. On August 4, 2016, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) celebrated the fourth annual Startup Day Across America by interviewing two entrepreneurs in his family: his dad and his daughter My dad worked for my grandfather when he started his construction company and then started his own company in the 1940s, said Perlmutter. My daughter, Abby, recently started her own business and blog named Denver Darling. While their businesses are quite different, they share similar experiences and the same entrepreneurial spirit. New businesses create two million jobs a year and are a critical part of the economy. According to Startup America, 27% of startups nationwide are owned by women and 33% are owned by minorities. These startup companies are involved in a variety of industries including technology, retail, healthcare, entertainment, consulting, and education. Startup Day Across America also provides local entrepreneurs with an opportunity to educate their elected officials about the challenges they are facing and discuss how federal policy can support their efforts to test new ideas, create new products, and grow their businesses. Whether it's a family member or a local small business in the community, it's important to hear directly from entrepreneurs and small business owners about the challenges and opportunities they face, continued Perlmutter. As a longtime advocate for micro and small businesses, Rep. Perlmutter has been involved in the JOBS Act, crowdfunding and the Export-Import Bank which helps small businesses in the export to overseas markets. Rep. Perlmutter also helped establish the new USPTO satellite office in Denver which helps small businesses and entrepreneurs obtain patents for new products. ###	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=79AFD18F-330C-5CD3-7FE4-BEE6AE076E51	Bennet Calls for Congress to Return Immediately to Address Zika Threat	2016-08-04	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Washington D.C. - Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, along with Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Bill Nelson (D-FL), urged Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan to reconvene both chambers of Congress to pass a clean funding bill to fight Zika. There are currently 15 confirmed cases of Americans who have contracted the Zika virus on U.S. soil, and the actual number of those infected is likely to be higher. In Puerto Rico, the number of Zika virus cases continues to rise with thousands of residents, including up to 50 pregnant women, contracting the virus every day. In the letter the Senators wrote: "The problems the American people confront do not disappear simply because Congress does. We urge you to immediately cancel the remainder of the congressional recess and get back to work to help the American public, especially women and families, amidst this crisis. "It has been 164 days since the President requested emergency funding to fight Zika. The combined time it took Congress to fund all of the last three public health emergencies - Ebola, H1N1 and Avian flu - was 137 days. The National Institutes of Health has said trials for a Zika vaccine will likely be delayed due to lack of funding. It is deeply troubling that the Zika epidemic which disproportionately impacts pregnant women and their babies would be treated any differently than these other emergencies. In each of these instances, Congress was able to set aside political rhetoric and act quickly to help. Unfortunately, we have seen no such action on Zika for pregnant women and families." Bennet has been consistently fighting in Congress to ensure that funding is provided to combat the Zika virus. Earlier this week, Bennet sent a letter to congressional leadership explaining the dire need to pass a clean funding bill. In February, he joined 45 senators urging the Administration to coordinate an interagency response plan to address the spread of the Zika virus both at home and abroad. Following the Administration's …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://perlmutter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1446	Perlmutter Honors WWII Veteran by Formally Presenting Medals for Service	2016-08-03	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Ed Perlmutter	P000593	perlmutter.house.gov	legacy	Lakewood, Colo. On August 3, 2016, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) held a formal medal presentation ceremony for Lakewood resident, Oscar Reiss, Ph.D. During the ceremony, Dr. Reiss was presented with seven military medals for his service during World War II. Dr. Reiss has had an amazing life with some terrible losses but because of his courage and bravery, we've all benefited as a country and been blessed by his contributions both in and out of military service, said Perlmutter. Born in Rhineland, Germany, Dr. Reiss moved to New York City in April of 1937. He later became a herdsman of 40 Ayrshire cattle delivering 250 gallons of milk. This was deemed essential as part of the war effort, however Dr. Reiss was unable to volunteer for military service because he was not a U.S. citizen. In 1944, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and attended Basic Infantry Training at Ft. McLellan, AL. As part of that process, he was awarded U.S. citizenship. Dr. Reiss was then sent to Cherbourg, France assigned to the 79th Infantry Division B. Company in Alsace, France, guarding the right flank during the Battle of the Bulge. In 1945, Dr. Reiss was awarded the Silver Star Medal. Several days later he was wounded by shrapnel and taken to a hospital in Liege, Belgium and was later awarded the Purple Heart for these injuries. While Dr. Reiss was awarded both the Silver Star Medal and Purple Heart, they were never formally presented to him.* Dr. Reiss contacted Rep. Perlmutter's office to ask for a formal medal ceremony for the Silver Star Medal and Purple Heart Medal. During that process, Rep. Perlmutter's office discovered five additional medals that Dr. Reiss earned for his service during WWII but were never obtained or formally presented. Rep. Perlmutter has held several medal ceremonies for local Veterans who were never awarded or presented with the medals and/or honors they earned during their service to our country. Last summer, Rep. Perlmutter held a ceremony for three local WWII Veterans who were Prisoners of War (POW). The …	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=4BC6BF4B-AF46-0CBA-2452-CEE5957139A2	Bennet Announces the Launch of Engage Cuba Statewide Council	2016-08-03	2016	2016-08	Democrat	House	CO	Michael Bennet	B001267	www.bennet.senate.gov	legacy	Denver, CO - Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and Engage Cuba announced the launch of a statewide council that will work to open trade opportunities to Cuba and end the travel ban. The 38-member council is made up of a diverse group of Coloradans representing industries like banking, agriculture, travel and tourism, high-tech, healthcare, education, energy, and others. Bennet is cosponsoring two bills to further this cause, including the Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act and the Freedom to Export to Cuba Act. The Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act would eliminate restrictions against Americans traveling to Cuba. The bill would also prohibit restrictions on any transactions related to travel, like bank transactions. The Freedom to Export to Cuba Act would repeal laws that prohibit U.S. companies from doing business with Cuba, and allow businesses to work directly with the Cubans to finance and ship purchases of American made products. "We are grateful to have such an impressive gathering of diverse industry leaders to support the end of trade restrictions and travel barriers to Cuba," Bennet said. "It's important that we recognize that our country has more ties to Cuba than just Miami and the coasts, and Colorado communities have a tremendous amount to gain economically and culturally from reestablishing this important relationship. This newly formed state council will allow us to forge new relationships, strengthen financial ties, and build bridges of opportunity for the next generation of both Cubans and Americans." "We're very pleased to work with all of our Engage Cuba Colorado State Council members to lift the Cuba travel and trade bans that is costing Colorado jobs and preventing economic development for the Cuban people. It's time to end 55 years of failed, isolationist policies toward Cuba," said President of Engage Cuba, James Williams. "Colorado businesses are stuck on the sidelines as our foreign competitors continue to take advantage of Cuba's growing markets. Opening up trade with Cuba would provide tre…	1	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z	2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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