Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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118 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "ND" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://web.archive.org/web/20131129164204/http://www.heitkamp.senate.gov:80/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d30354cb-282c-40f1-9b4b-190180662339 | Heitkamp Marks 15-Year Anniversary of Major Settlement She Negotiated as Attorney General to Combat Tobacco Abuse | 2013-11-23 | 2013 | 2013-11 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | web.archive.org | legacy | Mandan, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp is today highlighting the 15-year anniversary of the major tobacco settlement she helped broker as North Dakota’s Attorney General. The agreement between 46 states and the tobacco industry was signed on November 23, 1998. The settlement resulted in the award of about $336 million to North Dakota taxpayers to date and required tobacco companies to tell the truth about smoking and health. It was one of the largest civil settlements in U.S. history. When very little of this funding was being spent on anti-tobacco programs as intended, Heitkamp led a successful ballot initiative in 2008 that mandated significant increases. “The day we signed the settlement with the tobacco industry 15 years ago was one of the most satisfying moments in my career of public service,” said Heitkamp. “Battling the tobacco companies was incredibly difficult, but my goal of improving the lives and protecting the health of North Dakota children motivated me to get it done. Now in the Senate, I’m continuing that mission and working to strengthen tobacco-control policies that promote public health and reduce tobacco-related deaths.” Heitkamp expressed her concern last week to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Michael Froman regarding the USTR’s Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement Proposal, which may allow tobacco companies to use trade law to subvert domestic tobacco control measures. “The final TTP language should recognize this dangerous trend and prevent further abuses of trade laws related to domestic tobacco control legislation,” Heitkamp wrote in a letter with 10 of her Senate colleagues. “The United States should be leading the fight against death and disease from tobacco products, which are a uniquely dangerous threat to public health.” Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of deaths worldwide, taking 6.3 million lives a year, including 1,200 Americans daily. The United States spends nearly $200 billion a year for tobacco-related illness and injury, and lost productivity. Unless seri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=57f26439-d4dd-48dc-be9e-44e97e744533 | Heitkamp Reaction to Administration’s Proposed Regulations on New Power Plants | 2013-09-20 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today released the below statement following the Obama Administration’s release of proposed regulations on new power plants. Earlier Friday, Heitkamp spoke of the important role coal plays in our country’s energy future at the National Mining Association’s Board Meeting. “The Administration’s decision is a direct attack on coal-fired power plants and detrimental to the future for coal as an energy resource. This Administration has repeatedly stated its energy policy as ‘all of the above,’ but continues to issue regulations that make it impossible to find a viable path forward for coal. This rule would have lasting, harmful impacts on North Dakotans – not just the coal industry, but nearly all consumers as coal provides almost 90 percent of our state’s electricity. Here are the facts: Coal is an abundant, affordable resource for generation of electricity. Sadly, the Administration won’t say that and instead chooses to choke the coal industry with unattainable regulations. “During the coming 60-day comment period, I plan to meet with the EPA Administrator to strongly explain how these regulations are completely unachievable based on current technology and are cost prohibitive. Whether or not this regulation becomes final, I have already started to work with other Senators on a legislative solution that stops pushing coal to the wayside, and instead seeks ways for coal to remain the valuable source of energy that it currently is. “We need a true all-of-the-above approach, which includes coal, wind, oil, biofuels, and natural gas – just as North Dakota is already doing. Instead of pursuing these unachievable regulations that put consumers and our country’s economy at a severe disadvantage, the Administration should work to help find a feasible path forward for coal by encouraging continued investments in new and existing clean coal technologies.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=b88235b4-a8e2-4027-af3d-fe1076611769 | Heitkamp Welcomes Six Fall Interns To Washington And North Dakota Offices | 2013-09-20 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today announced that six students and recent graduates are interning this fall in her Grand Forks, Fargo, Minot, Dickinson and Washington D.C. offices. “I’m thrilled to have six new interns in my offices in North Dakota and Washington, D.C.,” said Heitkamp. “Our interns provide such a valuable service in the office, and I hope they use the opportunity to learn firsthand about Congress and the legislative process, and the importance of public service. I’m lucky to have such a talented group of students and recent graduates helping out in my offices this fall.” Matthew Musacchia, of Fargo, and Michael Nagel, of Wyndmere, are interning in Senator Heitkamp’s Washington, D.C. office. Matthew Musacchia is currently a senior at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND and is studying politics. Michael Nagel recently graduated from North Dakota State University with a major in Political Science. Mandan native Andy Conlon is working in Senator Heitkamp’s Grand Forks office. Andy, a senior at the University of North Dakota, is studying Political Science. Josh Weatherspoon interns in Senator Heitkamp’s Fargo office. He grew up Minot and recently graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a degree in Criminal Justice. Bailey Walters interns in Senator Heitkamp’s Minot office. A California native, she came to Minot Air Force Base serving as an active duty missile maintenance technician and enrolled in Minot State University’s Social Work program after her enlistment; Bailey is starting her last year as a Minot State University student. Dickinson native Sarah Jennings interns in Senator Heitkamp’s Dickinson office. She is currently attending Dickinson State University where she majors in History and Political Science. Senator Heitkamp’s office offers students internships in her state and Washington, D.C. offices during the summer, fall, and spring. Successful candidates will be those who demonstrate leadership, thoughtfulness, creativity, a strong attenti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6ad57dc3-464c-4195-a73f-0ababfb9102a | Heitkamp Calls on President to Approve Keystone XL Pipeline on Five Year Anniversary of Project Application | 2013-09-19 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the five year anniversary of the application for the Keystone XL pipeline, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today called on President Obama to recognize the project is in the United States’ national interest and approve it. In a letter to the President, Heitkamp explained how her trip last month to view development of the Canadian oil sands reinforced how crucial the pipeline is to the U.S. During the trip, she met with stakeholders in the extraction, production, and transportation industries, and discussed with Canadian officials their efforts to minimize the pipeline’s impact on the environment. “It’s disappointing we’re at this point where five years later we still don’t have an answer on the Keystone XL pipeline,” said Senator Heitkamp. “Just last month, I visited the oil sands in Canada and it only reinforced how critical the Keystone XL pipeline would be to North Dakota and the U.S. To my knowledge, no senior members of the Administration have visited the oil sands. But, in order to make an informed decision about this project, such a trip is needed to see the technology firsthand, clarify many of the issues the Administration thinks it may have with the project, and fully realize the responsible impact it could have on the U.S. “It’s in our economic, national security, and energy interests to approve this pipeline from our neighbor and ally as we continue to build an all-of-the-above energy strategy that could lead us toward North American energy independence. This project needs to be approved.” Click here to view the letter Heitkamp sent to President Obama on September 19. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9e99d77d-4718-47ef-8147-4e1a90f08986 | Heitkamp: Not a Proud Day for House of Representatives | 2013-09-19 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted for a bill to slash nutrition assistance programs for low-income families, children, seniors, and people who are disabled. On June 10, Heitkamp helped the Senate pass an overwhelmingly bipartisan Farm Bill that reduces the federal deficit by more than $23 billion. The bill reforms the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – which supports nutrition assistance programs – by closing loopholes, cracking down on abuse, and improving program integrity. In July, the House of Representatives passed a Farm Bill that completely removed the nutrition assistance provisions, putting low-income families across North Dakota and the country at risk. By taking out these lifesaving programs, which have been a crucial part of the Farm Bill for 50 years, the House is jeopardizing the passage of a comprehensive, long-term Farm Bill. “This is not a proud day for the House of Representatives. It is ironic that these are many of the same Members of Congress who bailed out the big banks, but when a family needs a little bit of help, they can’t seem to find a way to help them,” said Senator Heitkamp. “Not only did they vote to kick nearly four million people off nutrition assistance – including children, seniors, veterans, and disabled Americans. But they have seriously jeopardized the passage of a long-term Farm Bill that would provide certainty to North Dakota farmers and ranchers. Senate Agriculture Committee members of both parties have already suggested this effort is a non-starter. “The Senate did its part to pass a comprehensive, long-term, and bipartisan Farm Bill – just as we have done for 50 years. And I worked to make sure it included a number of provisions to help North Dakota. Sadly, the House is willing to throw it all away because they want to slash nutrition assistance programs that are lifelines for so many North Dakota and Americ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=fb9fe6ef-726f-4549-a65d-932589f4729d | Heitkamp Stands Up for Rural America During Debate on Postal Service Reform | 2013-09-19 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today called on her colleagues and U.S. Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe to not forget about rural America as work continues to reform the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). During a Senate hearing on postal service reform, Heitkamp warned that legislation must take into account the importance of postal service to rural areas and that significant service changes could be detrimental to the livelihood of North Dakotans and others throughout rural America. “During today’s hearing, I again made clear to both Postmaster General Donahoe and my colleagues how important a strong postal service is to North Dakota and all of rural America,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Committee that oversees the USPS. “Congress needs to help USPS address its financial challenges, but we must do so in a commonsense way that protects service standards in rural America and treats postal workers fairly. A strong postal service boosts rural economies, and provides a valuable service for residents. I will continue working with my colleagues to shape a postal reform bill that fully takes into account USPS’s impact on rural jobs and communities.” Heitkamp questioned Donahoe today at a Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee hearing. Heitkamp also heard from representatives of postal workers and letter carriers, who testified at the hearing. Earlier this summer during a meeting with Donahoe, Heitkamp secured a commitment from Donahoe to help solve some of the postal challenges facing North Dakota. The Postmaster promised assistance in meeting hiring challenges in North Dakota and improving service for oil field housing units. On February 15, Heitkamp and 23 other Senators sent a letter to Donahoe expressing their concerns about how USPS’ plans to move to five-day mail delivery service could disproportionately hurt jobs and mail service in rural communities, including throughout North Dakota. On March 7, she personally met with Donahoe to explain the harmful impact of five-day mai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0f5e703a-6f6d-41ad-a44f-beecc620c62d | Heitkamp Says House Efforts to Cut Nutrition Assistance Programs Are Derailing Passage of Needed Long-Term Farm Bill | 2013-09-18 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor calling on the House to stop its efforts to slash nutrition assistance programs – a key component of the Farm Bill – which could derail passage of a long-term, comprehensive Farm Bill and put millions of farmers, ranchers, and low-income families at risk. “It has been six years since we have passed a long-term Farm Bill. The Senate passed a bipartisan, comprehensive bill which I proudly supported. But the House seems willing to throw it all away,” said Heitkamp. “Just a few days ago, I met with North Dakota students and parents who benefit from the very nutrition assistance programs the House wants to drastically cut. These programs provide lifelines to low-income families – offering healthier school meals, and helping parents learn to cook healthier without it costing more. We don’t live in a country that rips food safety-net programs out from under children and families who need them.” A few days ago, Heitkamp joined families in Fargo as they participated in a federal nutrition assistance education class, authorized by the Farm Bill, that provides guidance to low-income families about how to purchase and learn to cook meals in an affordable, healthy way. She also discussed with Bismarck students and school officials the provisions she helped include in the Senate-passed Farm Bill to improve school meals. On June 10, Heitkamp helped the Senate pass an overwhelmingly bipartisan Farm Bill that reduces the federal deficit by more than $23 billion. The bill reforms the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – which supports nutrition assistance programs – by closing loopholes, cracking down on abuse, and improving program integrity. In July, the House of Representatives passed a Farm Bill that completely removed the nutrition assistance provisions, putting low-income families across North Dakota and the country at risk. Heitkamp believes that doing this has threatened the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6f8b4db9-6bc2-4b6d-b59c-220bf38b72c1 | Heitkamp to FEMA Administrator: Keep North Dakota Basement Exceptions for Flood Insurance | 2013-09-18 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today urged Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate to keep intact the basement exception that allows the lowest proofed opening in a home to be used for determining flood insurance rates. Heitkamp wants to make sure that, as the Flood Insurance Act of 2012 is implemented, North Dakotans, who have adopted rigorous flood-proofing systems, are not lumped in with other regions of the country in terms of flood insurance, where the lowest floor is used as the basis for determining rates. For insurance purposes, FEMA requires that the lowest floor of a residential building be above the expected height of the 100 year flood plain. Basements are usually below this level. But certain communities that flood-proof their basements, including some in North Dakota, have received basement exceptions, enabling these homeowners who invested in their homes and communities to avoid an undue spike in their flood insurance rates. Fifty-four communities nationwide, including 14 in North Dakota, have such an exemption. In Fargo, which has had a basement exception since 1975, officials believe rate increases could be significant if the exemption is eliminated. “North Dakotans have gone above and beyond to implement flood-protection systems for their basements. After making such critical investments that not only better protect homes and families, but also safeguard our state’s communities, they should not be lumped in with folks in other parts of the country who have not made these improvements,” said Heitkamp. “I know firsthand how important flood insurance is in North Dakota, and I am committed to making sure the program works for our state and that rates are affordable.” Administrator Fugate testified Wednesday at a Subcommittee hearing for the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, which oversees the National Flood Insurance Program. Fugate committed to Heitkamp to look into the issue and report back to her. Heitkamp plans to follow … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c0c1e6fa-506c-44fc-83d6-a11197dddf2e | Heitkamp Honors Dickinson Couple As North Dakota’s Angels in Adoption | 2013-09-17 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Photo Available of the Williams Family WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today announced that Courtney and Bobby Williams of Dickinson, North Dakota will be honored as Angels in Adoption. Nominated by Heitkamp, they will join other advocates from across the country who will be recognized for their efforts to improve the lives of foster and adopted children during a ceremony in October. In addition to three biological children, Courtney and Bobby became trained foster caregivers in Montana and North Dakota and have cared for foster children for both short and long periods of time, depending on the needs of the child. They recently adopted a daughter from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and are preparing to bring home two brothers from Ethiopia. In addition to bringing children into their own home, Courtney and Bobby also started an orphan ministry in their community church for parents of foster and adopted children. “Courtney and Bobby have made such a huge difference in the lives of so many vulnerable children by opening their hearts and homes to these kids,” said Heitkamp. “They understand the positive and life changing effects their actions have on the children they bring into their home and Courtney and Bobby are beyond deserving of the nomination. The Williamses are a source of inspiration for so many others and they set an example of true selflessness, commitment and love. I am honored to nominate them as Angels in Adoption.” “We are humbled to receive this award and sincerely enjoy helping children in need,” said Courtney and Bobby Williams. “Our goal with the support groups and ministry is to get the community involved and make a collective effort to enrich the lives of foster and adopted children. We greatly thank Senator Heitkamp for nominating us as Angels of Adoption, and appreciate her work to raise awareness about the need to provide kids with a life-time home.” Angels in Adoption is the signature program of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institution, which provides a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=01f60526-15f9-4499-8897-062e737495cf | During Breakfast with Bismarck Students, Heitkamp Touts Farm Bill Improvements to School Meals | 2013-09-16 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, N.D. – As she works to strengthen school meals, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp received input directly from students and administrators during school breakfast at Sunrise Elementary. Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, also discussed with students and school officials the provisions she helped include in the Senate-passed Farm Bill to improve school meals. “Today offered not only an opportunity to talk to school administrators and officials about their school meals programs, but a chance to hear directly from the students – like those at Sunrise Elementary – who are actually eating them," said Heitkamp. "These programs make sure our kids get good, healthy meals, helping enable them to focus and learn more while in the classroom. I helped pass a Farm Bill in the Senate that would make crucial improvements to school meals programs, and now it's time for the House to do its part. Giving our kids every opportunity to succeed should be a priority for us all." After breakfast, Heitkamp met with a local superintendent, school principal, and heads of child nutrition programs, as well as other school and public officials, to discuss challenges related to improving school nutrition in the North Dakota Public School System. The Farm Bill Heitkamp supported made significant improvements to our school meal programs. One provision Heitkamp helped include was the Pulse Foods Pilot Program, which would explore ways to increase the use of nutritious, North Dakota grown pulse crops in school breakfasts and lunches. The use of pulse foods for school meals is not only a healthy option for students around the country, but it will support North Dakota farmers. Pulses are highly nutritious foods that are excellent sources of dietary fiber, potassium, protein and other nutrients. Heitkamp played a key role in passing a long-term Farm Bill though the Senate in June. The overwhelmingly bipartisan bill reduces the federal deficit by more than $23 billion. The Farm Bill has been continually held up in the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=b00fb381-1697-418d-aa2b-385bd11bc066 | Heitkamp Highlights Effective Nutrition Education Program by Participating in Healthy, Affordable Meal Initiative | 2013-09-13 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | FARGO, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today joined North Dakota families as they participated in a federal nutrition assistance education class, authorized by the Farm Bill, that provides guidance to low-income families about how to purchase and prepare meals in an affordable, healthy way. The class participants learned about healthy options at the grocery store and discussed ways to stretch the family dollar for maximum nutrition quality. They then used the ingredients, with instruction from North Dakota State University Extension Service’s Family Nutrition Program, to prepare a healthy meal. Nutrition programs face steep cuts in the House of Representatives. This would not only harm struggling families, but it also threatens the passage of a long-term Farm Bill. Congress needs to pass a Farm Bill by September 30 to avoid the expiration of essential agriculture and nutrition programs, and provide North Dakota’s agriculture producers with the certainty they need to do their jobs. “This program is helping families learn about how to cook affordable, healthier meals for their kids, offering a crucial lifeline so North Dakota’s struggling children don’t go hungry,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “It not only helps these families, but it also does great things for our communities and reduces health care costs in the long run by encouraging healthier lifestyles. There are many reasons why we need to pass a comprehensive Farm Bill, and making sure families and kids are able to get the nutrition assistance they absolutely need is a crucial one. Sadly, the House is jeopardizing the livelihood of North Dakota’s farmers, ranchers, and low-income families. That isn’t leadership. I will continue to fight for a long-term Farm Bill that helps puts our agriculture industry and workers on the right path forward.” On June 10, Heitkamp helped the Senate pass an overwhelmingly bipartisan Farm Bill that reduces the federal deficit by more than $23 billion. The bill reforms the Supplemental Nut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0022d9ea-3b76-4406-a287-ed7c555f998e | Heitkamp Pushes to Advance Bipartisan Housing Finance Reform Bill During Hearing | 2013-09-12 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today used a major Senate Committee hearing to push for a vote on a bipartisan plan she helped introduce to fix America’s broken housing finance system. At the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs hearing, which examined various elements of housing finance reform, Heitkamp touted the plan she authored with seven other members of the Committee, and reinforced the need to address North Dakota’s housing crisis in part by fixing our nation’s broken housing finance system. The widely praised Housing Finance Reform & Taxpayer Protection Act would strengthen America’s housing finance system by replacing government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with a privately capitalized system. Moreover, the legislation protects taxpayers from future economic downturns and preserves the availability of the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for homebuyers. “In North Dakota, housing prices are skyrocketing and families are having a hard time finding affordable places to live. I’ve been working to address this housing shortage head on, and an important part of that means reforming our housing finance system so it works for families living in rural areas,” said Heitkamp. “At today’s hearing, the Committee came together for a serious discussion about how to accomplish that, and it’s clear there is wide, bipartisan support for my housing finance reform bill. I’m fighting to bring this bill up for a vote this fall, so we can get a bill signed into law that builds a stronger housing finance system for North Dakota and the whole country.” Heitkamp was the only freshman Senator to help write the housing finance reform bill. With her background as state Attorney General and Tax Commissioner, Heitkamp was uniquely experienced to tackle the complex issue. She specifically drafted provisions in the bill to make sure rural communities receive the resources they need, and ensure community banks and credit unions have access to the secondary housing market so they can… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6c4c99c7-ff0d-4824-b4f3-8fa026f961e5 | Heitkamp, Hoeven, Cramer Announce $2.5 Million Grants To North Dakota Airports | 2013-09-12 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that North Dakota airports have been awarded grants totaling more than $2.5 million for construction and renovations to airport infrastructure. “These federal grants will help us to maintain and improve runways, taxiways and other airport infrastructure. Investing in our transportation infrastructure will help our airports continue to safely serve passengers and grow to meet increasing demands,” said the delegation. The following grants were awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration: Grand Forks International was awarded $1.08 million to construct a snow removal equipment building and to rehabilitate the current runway lighting system. Sloulin Field International in Williston was awarded $1 million to improve runway safety, mill and overlay asphalt on a taxiway and for phase II of an airport master plan to consider a new commercial airport site to help meet aviation demand in the oil patch. Pembina Municipal Airport was awarded a grant for $156,127 to replace the airport’s rotating beacon and to fund repairs to the apron to preserve access to the airport. The airport was awarded an additional $112,930 to update the existing master plan to determine how to prevent annual flooding and help identify future airport needs. Parshall Municipal Airport Authority was awarded $96,749 to seal cracks in the pavement and for rehabilitation design for the runway. Barnes County Municipal Airport was awarded $66,864 for the design phase of a new taxiway to provide access to aircraft hangars and for rehabilitation designs for the existing apron pavement. The grants were awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation with funds appropriated by Congress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=e1fe2fdf-8a5e-49e3-9114-5f5dbe2ff9ca | Heitkamp (@SenatorHeitkamp) to Host Twitter Town Hall to Discuss the Situation in Syria with North Dakotans | 2013-09-12 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (@SenatorHeitkamp) will host a Twitter Town Hall on Tuesday, September 17, starting at 3:15 p.m. CT to talk about the recent developments in Syria, and her alternative proposal to address the Assad regime’s use of chemical weapons. “The recent news about the Assad regime accepting a Russian proposal to turn over its chemical weapons to international control is promising news. But we haven’t seen any action yet. And the circumstances are changing very quickly,” said Heitkamp. “During this Twitter town hall, I’d like to hear questions from North Dakotans about Syria, its use of chemical weapons, and the diplomatic approach we now appear to be taking that is very similar to what I called for. I hope to hear from as many North Dakotans as possible.” Starting today, anyone following @SenatorHeitkamp on Twitter can begin submitting questions about Syria by including #AskHeidiH with their tweet. Heitkamp participated in many confidential briefings discussing the Assad regime’s horrible use of chemical weapons on its own people over the past week and explained her decision to vote against a resolution authorizing military force. Heitkamp, along with Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), put forth an alternative approach that would allow the United States to build international support and exhaust all diplomatic options before considering military force. In addition to in-person meetings, phone calls, emails and letters, Twitter is another way for Heitkamp to connect and hear from North Dakotans. How it works: - Log on to www.Twitter.com today through the end of the town hall on Tuesday. - Post a tweet with a question about Syria followed by your hometown and #AskHeidiH. For example: What were your thoughts on the President’s speech about Syria? Casselton #AskHeidiH - Senator Heitkamp will reply to as many tweets as possible regarding Syria. Twitter Town Hall Who: Senator Heidi Heitkamp When: Tuesday, September 17, 2013 at 3:15 p.m. CT … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f6b6995a-6664-43a1-bb18-b0360d0c3d86 | Delegation Commemorates September 11 Anniversary | 2013-09-11 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer today are hosting a reception for the North Dakota National Guard’s (NDNG) 1st Battalion, 188th Air Defense Artillery Regiment in Washington in observance of the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. In April, the NDNG Regiment was deployed to the nation’s capital in support of Operation Noble Eagle and serves as part of the integrated air defense system designed to protect the airspace around the National Capitol Region. The soldiers focus on Avenger Air Defense System, Sentinel radar, National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System and Joint Air Defense Operation Center areas. “As we reflect on the tragic events of Sept. 11 and honor the men, women and children who lost their lives in those senseless attacks, it is fitting that we express our appreciation to our military,” the delegation said. “Our North Dakota National Guard members, regular military and reservists have sacrificed much to protect our nation, and they continue to work around the clock to prevent such tragedies as 9/11 from happening again. North Dakotans have a long and proud tradition of serving in the armed forces, and also of honoring those who do. Today, we pay tribute to the victims and first responders who lost their lives on Sept. 11, and also to our brave men and women in uniform who have sacrificed so much to defend our nation since that fateful day.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5e76da5c-0968-4a62-b624-54be4c321d2d | Heitkamp Statement on the President’s Speech on Syria | 2013-09-10 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp issued the following statement after the President’s speech this evening on Syria, and the need to prevent and deter the use of chemical weapons. Heitkamp has co-authored legislation with Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) that seeks a diplomatic alternative in Syria by giving the Assad government 45 days to sign the chemical weapons ban and begin the process of turning over its chemical weapons. During this time, the U.S. would work to build international support and create a global response on the use of chemical weapons in Syria. If, after 45 days, the Assad regime doesn't comply, then the President would have authority to use his national power to prevent and deter the use of chemical weapons in Syria. "Tonight, the President spoke to the American people about the terrible atrocities recently committed by the Syrian government, and how the Assad regime’s crimes against humanity cannot be ignored. I’m glad the President now agrees that we should seek a diplomatic solution first, and will engage in a renewed effort with the United Nations. We need to act in our country’s strategic interest, and that means exhausting any diplomatic options before considering the use of force. “The recent news about Assad accepting a Russian proposal to turn over its chemical weapons to international control is promising. It demonstrates there is a stronger appetite for a diplomatic solution that builds robust international support – just like my legislation aims to do. But actions speak louder than words, and we haven’t seen any action yet. "As the diplomatic process the President discussed continues, our nation should keep building international support and putting pressure on the Assad regime to turn over its chemical weapons. And the Senate should continue to consider alternate plans that focus on diplomatic efforts, such as the plan I have put forth.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=300f7cb2-e49f-43cb-8b6c-d53deb862300 | Heitkamp Statement on the Potential Use of Limited Force in Syria | 2013-09-09 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, ND – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today issued the following statement on the President’s request for Congressional authorization to use military force in Syria over its use of chemical weapons. Heitkamp also explained her draft alternative proposal to address the Assad regime’s use of chemical weapons. Over the past week, Heitkamp has participated in a classified hearing with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee where she heard from Secretary of State John Kerry and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, and a briefing at the White House with Vice President Biden. And she has spoken with foreign policy experts about this issue. “By using chemical weapons against its own people, the Assad regime committed a heinous crime against humanity that cannot be ignored. Any use of chemical weapons is a terrifying international problem that demands an international solution. “Over the past week, I have participated in many confidential briefings and I’ve been scrutinizing whether the potential use of limited force in Syria is in the best strategic interest of the United States. “I still believe we need to have an open and honest discussion on the Senate floor about the potential use of force in Syria. However, after all these meetings, I still have serious concerns. I cannot support the current Senate resolution to authorize force at this time. “After doing my due diligence, I believe we need an alternative path forward in dealing with the Assad regime. We must balance the legitimate concerns that Americans have about the use of military force with our strategic interests. At its core, I believe the current Senate resolution falls short because it calls for military action in Syria without carefully looking at diplomatic or alternative solutions. I strongly believe that we need the entire world, not just America, to prevent and deter the use of chemical weapons in Syria, or anywhere else on the globe. “I am currently working with Senator Joe Manchin and my other colleagues on an altern… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c785d90c-b1a3-492e-8ca9-dda6e0fa27f0 | Delegation Announces $1.2 Million in Grants to Bolster Law Enforcement Efforts in North Dakota | 2013-09-05 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office has been awarded grants totaling over $1.2 million to help with law enforcement efforts in North Dakota. “This federal funding will assist our law enforcement officials and provide necessary tools to help keep North Dakota communities safe,” said the delegation. “As our cities and towns continue to grow, it is important that we do all we can to ensure public safety and support law enforcement efforts.” The U.S. Department of Justice awarded the following grants from funding appropriated by Congress: $497,094 under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program that will be used to fund narcotics enforcement task forces in North Dakota and to provide services to victims of violent crimes including court assistance, support, shelter, and other services. $432,000 to enhance victim compensation payments to eligible crime victims. $250,000 to assist the state and local government in reducing forensic DNA sample turnaround time, increase the efficiency of public DNA laboratories and reduce DNA backlogs. $58,186 to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science and medical examiner services and to eliminate backlogs in analyzing forensic evidence, including controlled substances, firearms examinations, forensic pathology, latent prints, toxicology and other evidence. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=07d9eae3-9b92-48c5-983a-e4134daec922 | Heitkamp Returns to Washington Early for Briefings and Meetings on Potential Use of Force in Syria | 2013-09-03 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | MINOT, N.D. – In light of the upcoming Congressional vote to authorize military strikes against Syria over its use of chemical weapons, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp will return to Washington, D.C. this evening to participate in briefings and hold meetings to discuss the potential use of force in Syria. Heitkamp will no longer participate in previously scheduled events in North Dakota on Wednesday, September 4 and Thursday, September 5. “The potential use of force in Syria is an issue I take seriously, and I will closely study all sides of this debate,” said Heitkamp. “I will not make a final decision about my vote until I gather the latest intelligence and hear from the Administration and my constituents. And I’m coming back to Washington so I can participate in briefings and hold meetings about possible military action in Syria. Over the next week, I will be seeking more information from the Administration on how potential strikes meet U.S. strategic needs, the end goal of them, and how they could impact our long-term standing in the Middle East. The responses I get, as well as how the authorization for force is written and what I hear from North Dakotans, will all help me decide how I will vote.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d9c453a5-c9ec-48df-8842-dccab58a151b | In Minot, Heitkamp Brings Attention to Growing Cost of Higher Education | 2013-09-03 | 2013 | 2013-09 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | MINOT, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today visited the campus of Minot State University to bring attention to the rising cost of higher education and talk about ways to make college more affordable. Heitkamp brought together students, administrators, and financial aid officers from area colleges to focus on solutions to address the problem. Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Banking Committee, recently helped provide long-term certainty to student loan rates and is now working to address the skyrocketing price of a college degree. “To help find solutions to the rising cost of higher education, I am listening to the folks who are seeing it firsthand: North Dakota students and education officials,” said Heitkamp. “Just as I’ve heard from other discussions across North Dakota, I heard today from students about how they face crippling college debt for decades because of the exponentially growing costs of higher education. The legislation I voted for was an important first step to provide certainty about student loan rates, but we have so much more to do. All students, regardless of their family’s financial situation, should be able to afford public higher education and get the college degree they deserve, while not feeling the burdens of massive amounts of debt.” Heitkamp was joined in Minot by current college students, Turtle Mountain Community College President Jim Davis, and several Minot State University officials. Heitkamp has recently held similar discussions in Valley City and Grand Forks. In July, Heitkamp helped pass the Bipartisan Student Loan Certainty Act of 2013, which the President signed into law. The legislation allows students the ability to take advantage of historically low interest rates, while locking in the rates for the life of the loan, and capping future rates. In addition to her work to on keeping rates low, Heitkamp is also working on a plan to help Americans saddled with costly, private student loans refinance to more affordable options. In June, Heitkamp introduced a bill to hel… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=08ddefcf-e7ee-4880-9720-1b217bbc210c | Heitkamp Meets with Saskatchewan Premier, Visits Construction on World’s Largest Coal-Fired Power Station With Carbon Capture and Storage System | 2013-08-29 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | ESTEVAN, SK – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today continued her push for an all-of-the-above U.S. energy policy during a visit to Saskatchewan, Canada to see a new, state-of-the-art carbon capture and storage site. Heitkamp discussed North Dakota and Canadian energy development with Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall and also visited the SaskPower’s Boundary Dam plant, which will be the world’s largest coal-fired power station with a carbon capture and storage system. “The innovative work being done in Saskatchewan is an example of the steps we can take in the U.S. to find a viable path forward for coal and coal-fired power,” said Heitkamp, who also recently spent three days in Alberta, Canada to strengthen energy ties. “Coal is a reliable, affordable energy source and a key part of any solution to North American energy independence and security. Canada has invested in carbon capture and storage technologies by developing public-private partnerships between the national and provincial governments, and utilities to find a way to continue to using an inexpensive and abundant source of energy. This is an example of what we should be doing more of in the United States when it comes to making sure there is a future for coal-fired power in our energy mix.” The Boundary Dam Integrated Carbon Capture and Storage Demonstration Project is expected to cut CO2 emissions by up to 90 percent, approximately one million tonnes per year. The captured carbon will be used for enhanced oil recovery operations, permanently stored in underground oil reserves. Last week in Alberta, Heitkamp viewed oil sand mine operations, visited with TransCanada Pipeline operations, and met with Ambassador of Canada to the U.S. Gary Doer as well as Alberta Premier. Heitkamp saw firsthand the province’s energy development and discussed North Dakota’s energy production. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c1df40e2-97df-4b56-8136-993410ac2f44 | Delegation Announces Over $17.5 Million In Grants To North Dakota Airports | 2013-08-29 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that airports across North Dakota have been awarded grants totaling over $17.5 million for improvements and construction projects, including $6.5 million for the Minot International Airport. Today’s $6.5 million dollars in federal funding for Minot International Airport is important, the delegation said. It triggers the state match and brings funding to date up to $25 million, more than half the cost of the $41 million project. It’s also important because it enables construction on the terminal to begin this fall, with a projected completion date of November 2015. The delegation said they will continue to push for additional federal funding. Hoeven, Heitkamp and representatives from Cramer’s office this spring met with Federal Aviation Administrator Michael Huerta to press for the North Dakota airport projects, including the Minot project, which is needed to meet the needs of the growing city and region. Federal funding was extremely short, but the delegation worked to secure the resources in time to begin construction this year. Huerta called the delegation today to notify them of the award. “This funding statewide will help provide much needed infrastructure at airports across North Dakota to keep up with the growing economy and population of our state,” the delegation said. “Investing in our state’s transportation infrastructure is important and these grants will help fund a new terminal at Minot Airport, a new airport in Bowman County, and improvements to runways, taxiways, and other airport infrastructure across North Dakota. Our airports are serving a record number of passengers each year. We’re working to ensure that we build and maintain our infrastructure to meet growing needs and preserve our high quality of life in North Dakota.” The following grants were awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration: Minot International Airport is being awarded $6.5 million for construction of a new te… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=21e7c1a0-96ea-4fe8-9f3f-37bed4d1f5e3 | Heitkamp, Narcotics Task Force Work on Solutions to North Dakota Drug Abuse | 2013-08-28 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, N.D. –U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today joined a Narcotics Task Force meeting to talk about ways to address the narcotic and prescription drug abuse problems in North Dakota. The Narcotics Task Force is a joint venture between the Health Policy Consortium and the North Dakota Pharmacy Association. “Prescription drug abuse is the most rapidly growing drug problem facing the country,” Heitkamp said. “Today’s meeting was an important opportunity for law enforcement, health providers, and local officials to work side-by-side to stem the tide of drug abuse. Too many North Dakotans, their families, and communities have been torn apart by drug abuse or deaths. We need to put an end to this growing problem now before it's too late. I look forward to working with the task force going forward and doing all I can to help from the federal level.” Heitkamp was joined at the meeting by representatives from across the law enforcement and health communities, including the N.D. Attorney General’s office, Sanford Health, the West Fargo Police Department, the N.D. Pharmacy Association, the N.D. Medical Association, the N.D. Indian Affairs Commission, and the N.D. Board of Pharmacy. Fighting drug abuse in North Dakota is one of Heitkamp’s priorities in the state. As a part of her efforts to improve community safety and curb drug abuse, last month she brought White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Director R. Gil Kerlikowske to North Dakota to see first hand the drug abuse and crime problems plaguing the Bakken, and talk about solutions to this problem. With the expertise of leading members of the medical community, the Narcotics Task Force is working to find ways the state can curtail drug problems using the four key pillars of the President’s National Drug Control Strategy: education, monitoring, proper disposal, and enforcement. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=e7f7140e-3d1e-4436-914a-30e3d0480090 | Administration Heeds Delegation’s Call to Pay Back Mineral Revenue North Dakota is Owed | 2013-08-28 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven, as well as Congressman Kevin Cramer, today announced that the Department of Interior (DOI) will repay North Dakota the additional mineral revenue that was withheld for Fiscal Year 2013, totaling more than $1.5 million the state is owed. The North Dakota federal delegation sent a letter in May to U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell expressing their concerns about how these revenues have been incorrectly taken away from the state. Heitkamp and Hoeven also helped introduce legislation to adjust how these payments are made in the future so DOI cannot suspend payments to states. “North Dakota is responsible for most of its energy development costs and we are committed to making sure our state gets its fair share of revenue from mineral extraction and energy development,” the delegation said. “We pushed back on the Administration, and it agreed with us that, regardless of federal across-the-board cuts, it should repay to North Dakota the funds it withheld. The fact is that this revenue is meant for energy producing states, so money meant for North Dakota shouldn't be diverted to reduce the federal deficit. We will continue to work to see that the federal government is correctly disbursing the funds generated from energy production.” The Mineral Leasing Act entitles states to 48 percent of all revenue collected by the federal government for mineral activity on federal lands within state boundaries. But earlier this year, DOI began to withhold North Dakota’s share of mineral revenue under the rationale that the Department needed to cut back disbursement because of the across-the-board federal spending cuts, known as sequestration. Except these funds were always meant to go to energy producing states, not the federal government, and therefore, shouldn't be impacted by federal cuts. The North Dakota delegation and other Members of Congress from energy producing states reminded the Administration that these funds are not … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f07d433d-ad3f-49f4-9f2f-66edd24be87e | Heitkamp, Hoeven, North Dakota Ag Leaders Meet with RMA to Ensure Workable Rules | 2013-08-27 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today convened roundtables in Grand Forks and Minot with Risk Management Agency (RMA) Administrator Brandon Willis to clarify new rules for the prevented planting crop insurance program. Hoeven was joined by Senator Heidi Heitkamp and representatives from North Dakota’s agriculture groups to continue working to make the prevented planting program workable for North Dakota producers. “We welcome Administrator Willis back to North Dakota today to hear from our state’s agriculture leaders,” said Hoeven. “We’ve been working to get the RMA to make changes so our producers have clear and workable rules to qualify for the prevented planting program. North Dakota producers faced unnecessary hurdles and ambiguity in the program this year. We’ve been working to provide the necessary clarifications and modifications to ensure that prevented planting provides the necessary coverage for our producers.” “Today Administrator Willis was able to hear directly from North Dakota producers about the serious problems they are facing,” said Heitkamp. “And Administrator Willis was able to explain to our growers exactly how the recently announced changes to prevented planting crop insurance rules will work. Crop insurance helps our food producers balance the risks that come from farming by enabling our farmers to survive bad seasons. They deserve to know they can rely on the insurance coverage they purchased, and that's why I pushed Administrator Willis to remove ambiguity in the rules to help our farmers thrive.” Yesterday, the RMA released new rules to govern the program effective for the 2014 crop year and beyond, including the following: Eliminates the “normal weather” provision to allow a producer who plants and harvests a crop one out of four years, regardless of the weather situation, to be eligible for prevented plant. The previous rules definition of “normal weather conditions” was a matter of subjective interpretation, leaving growers uncertain about how they could use those years… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c4ec84a6-e518-434c-a648-f65b3d3d2417 | Delegation: RMA Announces New Prevented Plant Guidelines | 2013-08-26 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that the Risk Management Agency (RMA) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released new rules for the prevented planting insurance program for the 2014 crop year. The new rules come following pressure from North Dakota’s delegation to clarify the rules and make the program work for producers. The new guidelines: Eliminate the “normal weather” provision to allow a producer who plants and harvests a crop one out of four years, regardless of the weather situation, to be eligible for prevented plant. The previous rules definition of “normal weather conditions” was a matter of subjective interpretation, leaving growers uncertain about how they could use those years to qualify for prevented plant insurance. Remove a provision disqualifying land for prevented planting if marsh vegetation, such as a single cattail, is found on it. However, once the producer is unable to plant and harvest on certain acreage in one of the four most recent crop years, the producer will need to demonstrate the land is farmable by planting and harvesting (or incurring an insurable loss other than for excess moisture) two years in a row. “Our producers should be focused on farming and running their businesses instead of navigating unclear government regulations,” said Hoeven. “We’ve been pressing RMA to make the prevented planting program work for our producers and to ensure the guidelines are clear and concise. Tomorrow we’ll be hosting roundtable discussions with the RMA Administrator and North Dakota producers to ensure the rules are clear and that they do, in fact, work for our farmers and ranchers.” In May, Hoeven hosted Willis in Fargo and Bismarck at roundtable meetings held with a broad range of North Dakota agriculture group leaders to provide an update and press for a clarification of the prevented plant rules. Hoeven also successfully included an amendment in the Senate Agriculture Appropriations bill … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=722ef1f9-e229-46b1-94cc-d78b9a721c30 | Delegation Announces Info Session For Students Interested In U.S. Military Academies | 2013-08-23 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, N.D. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven, as well as Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced an upcoming session for those interested in more information about attending a U.S. Service Academy. Capt. Al Gomez, West Point Great Lakes Regional Commander for Admissions, will speak at the Fargo Armed Forces Center, 3920 31st St. NW, Fargo, on Friday, September 13th at 7 p.m. Gomez will give a presentation specific to the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY, but the session will be valuable to anyone interested in information about admissions to any of the service academies. Every year, Hoeven, Heitkamp and Cramer each nominate North Dakota students for admission at our nation’s military service academies. “Attending a military service academy is a distinct privilege, and we are honored to nominate many of our state’s best students to represent North Dakota at our nation’s distinguished academies,” the delegation said in a joint statement. “Students attending the service academies are able to serve their country while pursuing a military career and receiving a world-class education. We encourage interested students to attend the upcoming briefing, and contact our offices to begin the application process.” The North Dakota delegation encourages all interested North Dakota high school graduates or graduating seniors to apply through one of their offices to receive a nomination to one of the military service academies. Applicants must be at least 17 years old but not past their 23rd birthday on July 1, 2014, and must also be U.S. citizens, unmarried and have no dependents. They must also demonstrate excellence in academics and leadership. Application materials are available online through the senators’ and congressman’s official websites. All three of North Dakota’s Congressional offices will accept applications for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York; the Air Force Academy near Colorado Springs, Colorado; the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; and the Merchant Marine … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=fea4b698-aade-42c1-b498-52df897bcd50 | Heitkamp Delivers Keynote Address at Quentin N. Burdick Job Corps Graduation | 2013-08-23 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | MINOT, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today spoke to graduates at the Quentin N. Burdick Job Corps Center about how Job Corps offers students a chance to develop their skills and find careers in fields like health care and manufacturing. One hundred ninety-two students graduated from the program this year. “The Quentin N. Burdick Job Corps gives so many young people opportunities to increase their educational, career, technical, and social skills,” Heitkamp said. “It’s a place where students grow – both as adults and as workers. I’m so proud of every student here. They all show such amazing promise, and I have no doubt they will do great things.” Earlier this year, Heitkamp joined a bipartisan group of Senators to press the Senate Appropriations Committees to continue support of the Job Corps program. She also continues to educate colleagues in Washington about the importance of supporting Job Corps and other programs that help students build skills to succeed in today’s economy. Minot’s Job Corps Center opened in 1994, and is named in honor of former U.S. Senator Quentin N. Burdick of North Dakota. Job Corps is a career technical training program provided to young people ages 16 to 24 through the U.S. Department of Labor. The program aims to improve participants’ quality of life through academic and career technical training, making them more employable and independent. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8bc60f5f-d2a7-42aa-ac40-d2109e8c5684 | Delegation: UND To Receive $500,000 Energy Grant For Turbine Technology Research | 2013-08-22 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced that the University of North Dakota (UND) will receive a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop components for advanced gas turbine that will capture and use natural gas to produce clean, efficient energy while reducing flaring. “This grant supports important research at the University of North Dakota to help develop turbines that capture and use natural gas to create clean, efficient energy. These turbines will help to reduce flaring and ensure we’re using natural gas efficiently,” said Hoeven. “This project is a good example of how new energy technologies enable us to produce more energy, with better environmental stewardship. The next generation of energy technology is happening right here in North Dakota.” As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to secure funding for Fossil Energy Research and Development programs at DOE and pressed DOE to fund projects and award grants to improve the efficiency of gas turbines. “Congratulations to UND on receiving this extremely competitive grant to work on advanced energy research here in North Dakota,” said Heitkamp, who has been a vocal advocate for investments in all forms of energy. “This grant shows, yet again, that North Dakota is a national leader when it comes to energy. And with funding like this to help our state continue its research, our energy technologies will only continue to grow.” “UND continues to be on the cutting edge of energy research and technology and has earned the support of our federal government and the industries they support. As a public service commissioner I saw firsthand how their research has made North Dakota an international leader in production and innovation, showing the way to energy security that enhances the economy and protects the environment,” said Cramer. The University of North Dakota will receive $499,996 to develop turbine cooling technologies and is one of 10 universiti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c1bfbe12-d217-4143-a95e-de1b86bc864b | Heitkamp, Hoeven Encourage North Dakota Students To Apply For U.S. Senate Youth Program | 2013-08-22 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven today announced that the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is currently accepting nominations from high school students interested in participating in the program’s 52nd annual Washington Week. The senators encourage North Dakota high school students interested in public service and government to apply for the program, which brings students from across the country to the nation’s capital to participate in a week-long study of the United States government. Student delegates receive an all-expense paid trip and a $5,000 college scholarship. The application date for the State of North Dakota is October 20, 2013. “We are pleased to encourage North Dakota high school students to apply to participate in the historic and prestigious United States Senate Youth Program that is held each year in Washington, D.C.,” the senators said in a joint statement. “This program offers two of North Dakota’s brightest students the unique opportunity to represent our state as they meet with their peers from across the country to gain a firsthand look at our democratic system of government, expand their knowledge and cultivate the skills that will serve them well in their future studies and professional endeavors.” The USSYP will be held March 8 – 15, 2014, in Washington, D.C. The student delegates will visit Capitol Hill, the White House, the Pentagon, the State Department, the Supreme Court and other historic sites in Washington, and meet with senators, cabinet officers, government leaders and other policymakers. Two delegates will be chosen from each state. The program’s strongest candidates are students with outstanding leadership abilities, a firm commitment to public service and high academic standing. The delegate selection is administered by each state’s chief school officer in cooperation with high school principals. Interested students should contact their local high school principal or the state-level selection administrator, Pauline Iler, at pailer@nd.gov. D… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=a1f2026f-6818-4527-9b39-6ded0cbae25e | Heitkamp Welcomes Postmaster General to State, Advocates to Protect Rural Post Offices | 2013-08-21 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today welcomed U.S. Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe to North Dakota, saying the visit will allow him to see firsthand the importance of a quality postal service in the state, and the impact it has on North Dakota jobs and mail service. Heitkamp, a member of the Committee that oversees the United States Postal Service (USPS), is working to reform the USPS to better address the unique needs of rural states. “By visiting North Dakota, Postmaster Donahoe will be able to see for himself how crucial a strong postal service is for our state, and I thank Senator Hoeven for hosting him,” said Heitkamp, who is currently in Canada for three days discussing North Dakota’s energy production with top Canadian officials and exploring how Canada and the U.S. can work together toward North American energy independence. “In North Dakota, the postal service plays a vital role in our way of life – it creates jobs, boosts our local economies, and provides a valuable service for residents. Changes must be made to address USPS’ financial challenges, but that stability can’t be bought by slashing jobs and services in rural communities. As we debate how to reform the USPS on my Committee, I will fight to shape legislation that takes into account North Dakota’s unique needs.” Heitkamp is dedicated to making sure rural America is treated fairly in any comprehensive postal reform legislation. As the Senate works on a new postal reform bill, she is continuing to fight for North Dakota’s interests and stand up for rural communities and rural jobs. Earlier this summer during a meeting with Donahoe, Heitkamp secured a commitment from Donahoe to help solve some of the postal challenges facing North Dakota. The Postmaster promised assistance in meeting hiring challenges in North Dakota and improved service for oil field housing units. On February 15, Heitkamp and 23 other Senators sent a letter to Donahoe expressing their concerns about how USPS’ plans to move to five-day mail delivery servi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=464c70ae-b521-4a4b-8a2a-50a9a234a39b | Heitkamp Heads To Canada To Strengthen Energy Ties With Neighbors | 2013-08-20 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today departed on a three-day trip to Alberta, Canada to see firsthand the province’s energy development and meet with top Canadian officials to discuss North Dakota’s energy production. Heitkamp will tout her state’s all-of-the-above energy approach, and talk about ways America and Canada can work together to develop North American energy security and independence. “The U.S., and North Dakota in particular, have a special relationship with Canada and this trip will allow me to help strengthen those ties,” said Heitkamp. “Working together, Canada and states like North Dakota will help us become North American energy independent. It will be helpful to see their energy production firsthand and discuss the progress Canada and North Dakota have made in developing their natural resources. As I’m continuing to push for approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline, this trip should also reinforce what an asset the project would be to North Dakota and the U.S.” Heitkamp’s Canadian agenda includes: A reception in her honor hosted by Cal Dallas, Minister, Office of International and Intergovernmental Relations, Government of Alberta. The event will be attended by Gary Doer, Ambassador of Canada to the U.S. Meeting and tour with TransCanada Pipeline officials Visit to oil sands mining operations Meeting with Alberta Premier Alison Redford to discuss the importance of the U.S.-Canada energy relationship Heitkamp will reiterate her support for the construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. Since taking office, Heitkamp has pushed the Administration to approve the permit to allow for the pipeline’s construction. Heitkamp supports the project because it will create North Dakota jobs, drive down costs of fuel for small businesses and North Dakota families, and alleviate truck traffic on North Dakota roads. Moreover, she believes the project is important for national security because doing business with our friendly neighbor will help to hedge against sudden disruptions to our n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=343e7f7d-eb62-4f1c-bf24-232849d8cea2 | Heitkamp Says Bakken Pipeline Expansion & New Rail Facility Show Continued Commitment to Energy Development in North Dakota | 2013-08-19 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BERTHOLD, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp was on hand today to support an expansion of new infrastructure in North Dakota, which will help move the state’s vast energy production to market. Heitkamp, an ardent supporter of an all-of-the-above energy policy, applauded Enbridge for investing in a new rail car loading facility and a pipeline expansion to load and transport Bakken crude. “The completion of this pipeline expansion and new loading facility is another example that North Dakota is leading the way in domestic energy production,” said Heitkamp. “It is because of investments like Enbridge’s that our state has been able to harness the resources we have. Enbridge not only has faith in Bakken production levels, but faith in our state and its people. With a true all-of-the-above energy policy, North Dakota will continue to help us become North American energy independent.” Enbridge’s new rail car loading facility and pipeline expansion will add an additional 225,000 barrels per day of transport capacity. Because of the enhanced pipeline and rail capacity, the number of trucks on North Dakota roads will decrease. Moreover, the new infrastructure will allow Bakken crude to reach markets previously unavailable. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f7326f7a-5d2d-47c3-8ed0-d212a5dc5401 | Heitkamp Says New 55th Street Bridge Shows Benefits of Federal, State & Local Partners Working Together | 2013-08-19 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | MINOT, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today participated in the ribbon cutting of the new 55th Street Bridge in Minot which was funded through a federal, state, and local partnership. “Today’s opening of the 55th Street Bridge is a perfect example of what we can accomplish for the people of North Dakota when federal, state, and local officials work together for a common good,” said Heitkamp. “Minot is experiencing incredible economic growth and this investment will enable the community to continue to grow and create more jobs. I look forward to continuing to support infrastructure projects in Minot and throughout the state to support our rapid economic growth.” Because of the growth of economic development and commercial activity in the area, the bypass was needed to alleviate congestion from rail traffic which had forced many drivers – commercial and residential – to wait up to a half hour while trains were unloaded or rail traffic passed through. The bypass will make it possible for these new industries to successfully coexist with residents and other commercial businesses. And it will enable Minot to continue growing and create more jobs. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=56376e76-8882-4112-88a4-784a84d6b4fa | Heitkamp Hosts Housing Summit with Fargo Community Leaders | 2013-08-16 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | FARGO, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today hosted a housing summit with Fargo community leaders to talk about the housing issues in North Dakota and seek solutions to address them. Heitkamp also discussed bipartisan legislation she helped introduce in the Senate to help reform the nation’s housing finance system, which would support affordable homeownership in North Dakota while protecting American taxpayers. The housing summit follows a series of discussions Heitkamp held throughout North Dakota in March to address the state’s housing crisis -- one of her top priorities. As a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Development, Heitkamp is in a unique position to fight for more quality, affordable housing options. “North Dakota families shouldn’t have to choose between putting a roof over their head or feeding their kids. But as the lack of reasonably priced housing options has dwindled, too many families have been forced to make that kind of terrible decision,” said Heitkamp. “Today, I brought together area leaders to talk about how we can address this challenge head on. Last March, I held housing discussions across the state and took North Dakotans’ thoughts and ideas back to Washington. I plan to do the same after today’s summit and will keep fighting for a solution. “In order to fully address this housing crisis, we also need to fix our broken housing finance system – which is why I helped write bipartisan legislation to do just that. In order to build a strong housing finance system nationally, we need one that works for everyone -- including rural communities. That’s what this bill would accomplish.” The housing summit brought together representatives from local housing authorities, community organizations, city offices, real estate agencies, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, among others. They joined for a variety of panel discussions, including overviews of the housing issues North Dakota faces; issue updates on affordability, infrastructure… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6b04fde3-0c0a-4518-9e39-7a7d4dc2ce01 | Heitkamp Hosts Housing Summit with Bismarck & Mandan Community Leaders | 2013-08-15 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | MANDAN, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today hosted a housing summit with Bismarck and Mandan community leaders to talk about the housing issues in North Dakota and seek solutions to address it. Heitkamp also discussed bipartisan legislation she helped introduce in the Senate to help reform the nation’s housing finance system, which would support affordable homeownership in North Dakota while protecting American taxpayers. The housing summit follows a series of discussions Heitkamp held throughout North Dakota in March to address the state’s housing crisis -- one of her top priorities. As a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Development, Heitkamp is in a unique position to fight for more quality, affordable housing options. “The lack of reasonably priced housing in North Dakota is forcing too many families to pay more than they can afford to keep a roof over their heads or face going without. This isn’t a choice anyone should have to make,” said Heitkamp. “Today’s housing summit brought together area leaders to talk about how we can tackle this challenge. Just as I did after I held housing discussions across the state in March, I will take today’s ideas back to Washington and continue to fight for a solution. “I’m also pushing to move forward comprehensive housing finance reform legislation that I helped write. A strong housing finance system nationally is crucial for helping North Dakota weather the housing crisis it faces. And it’s long past time that we build a housing finance system that works for everyone – including those in rural communities – and that’s what this bipartisan bill would do.” The housing summit brought together representatives from local housing authorities, North Dakota banks, city offices, real estate agencies, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, among others. They joined for a variety of panel discussions, including overviews of the housing issues North Dakota faces… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=80e05321-f457-4482-9a8b-49a33f145419 | Heitkamp Brings Together Area Students, Administrators to Focus on College Affordability | 2013-08-15 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | VALLEY CITY, N.D. – Today on the campus of Valley City State University (VCSU), U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp brought together students and administrators from area colleges to focus on the increasing cost of higher education. Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Banking Committee, recently helped provide long-term certainty to student loan rates and is now working to address the skyrocketing price of a college degree. VCSU President Dr. Steve Shirley, Mayville State University President Dr. Gary Hagen, and Jamestown College President Dr. Robert Badal participated in the discussion. “We worked together last month in a bipartisan fashion to provide long-term certainty for students, but my efforts to improve our higher education system are far from over,” said Heitkamp. “The students, as well as Presidents Shirley, Badal, and Hagen offered important insight that I am going to use to shape legislation in the Senate. For our state to continue to be successful, we need to ensure higher education is affordable for North Dakotans.” In July, Heitkamp helped pass the Bipartisan Student Loan Certainty Act of 2013, which the House then passed and the President signed into law. The legislation allows students the ability to take advantage of historically low interest rates, while locking in the rates for the life of the loan, and capping future rates. In addition to her work to on keeping rates low, Heitkamp is also working on a plan to help Americans saddled with costly, private student loans refinance to more affordable options. In June, Heitkamp and fellow Banking Committee member Senator Sherrod Brown introduced a bill to help folks reduce their debt through refinancing, which would be no cost to taxpayers. Heitkamp understands that the issue of mounting student loan debt not only affects students and graduates, but that it is a drain on the entire economy. Last year, outstanding student loan debt reached more than $1 trillion and 81 percent of the undergraduates with high student debt had private loans. This excessive … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5307383f-7a88-402e-abd4-ed970722d69d | Heitkamp Brings Top Bank Regulator to State to Hear Firsthand from North Dakota Bankers | 2013-08-14 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, today brought Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Chairman Martin Gruenberg to North Dakota to hear directly from bankers in the state about the importance of local and community banks to helping small businesses and communities thrive. With a deep understanding of the vital role local banks play in North Dakota, Heitkamp is using her role on the powerful Senate committee to make sure they are given the opportunities to succeed without facing undue regulations. With 98 percent of North Dakota’s businesses considered small businesses, community banks play a vital role in helping them grow, providing nearly half of small business loans and farm loans. “Local banks are lifelines for our communities, helping families buy homes and enabling small businesses get the financing they need to succeed. We need to make sure they are given the chance to help our businesses, towns, and state grow,” said Heitkamp. “Today, North Dakota’s bankers had an incredible opportunity to help drive home that policies made in Washington shouldn’t prevent our small lenders from thriving. I’m fighting on the Senate Banking Committee to rein in the abuses of Wall Street, but we need to be careful that we aren’t inadvertently harming North Dakota banks at the same time. Lenders in our state weren’t responsible for the economic downturn, and they – as well as our families and businesses – shouldn’t be punished for the irresponsible actions of bigger banks.” “I appreciate the invitation from Senator Heitkamp to visit North Dakota to meet with community bankers and hear their views first hand,” said FDIC Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg. The FDIC is an independent federal regulator which oversees community banks and works to maintain stability and confidence in the nation’s financial system. Since joining the Senate Banking Committee in January, Heitkamp’s work on the panel has been praised. CQ Roll Call wrote that Heitkamp … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c7ff6045-7ced-4cb8-bf02-9a90563b7c8a | Delegation: Fargo to Receive $1.7 Million in Flood Recovery Funding | 2013-08-14 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARCK, N.D. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven, as well as Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced that the City of Fargo will receive $1,760,835 in federal funding to help cover a share of the cost for North Dakota’s emergency response and relief from severe flooding this past spring. Earlier this year, Fargo experienced flooding conditions due to heavy snowpack and a very late snow melt. While the river crested lower than expected, the city still had to mount a costly flood prevention effort. The delegation worked to help defray the costs in support of the state’s request. “We were all on the ground and saw firsthand Fargo officials and citizens come together to fight the high waters this spring,” the delegation said. “As a delegation, we worked together to see that Fargo would qualify for federal funding to help share the costs that went along with such a quick and robust emergency response. And we worked to make sure the city would be able to receive the money in a timely manner.” The funding from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today is intended to help defray part of the expenses Fargo incurred this spring. Before, during, and after the flood, Fargo had a variety of expenses, including equipment; sand bag operations; police traffic control and security; and the transportation of volunteers. In May, the delegation wrote to President Barack Obama to press for approval of the state’s request for an emergency declaration. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3d9387c8-66a4-42c0-bb6f-ca1744954458 | Heitkamp Launches Facebook Cover Photo Contest | 2013-08-13 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | BISMARK, N.D. – Senator Heidi Heitkamp today launched a new contest to replace her cover photo on Facebook. She called on North Dakotans to submit their favorite original photographs that best typify the state’s beautiful scenery and heritage. Submissions will be posted on Senator Heitkamp’s Facebook page as they come in. In mid-September, one of the photographs will be chosen as the winner and it will become Senator Heitkamp’s new cover photo on Facebook. “North Dakota’s landscapes and natural beauty are so unique to our state, and we take great pride in them,” said Heitkamp. “Today, I’m launching a Facebook photo contest to encourage North Dakotans to send in their favorite original photos of the state to celebrate our rich history and help others enjoy what makes North Dakota so beautiful. I hope North Dakotans throughout the state will participate in the contest.” How to submit a photograph: To submit photos, North Dakotans should send their favorite high quality, photo of North Dakota – which they took themselves -- to press@heitkamp.senate.gov, and it could be featured as Senator Heitkamp’s cover photo on Facebook. Participants should include their name and where the photo was taken. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=1856f4ba-635f-4fe4-a1fd-7cd9f8fe6a82 | Delegation Announces $3.6 Million in Grants to Expand, Renovate North Dakota Airports | 2013-08-09 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that airports across North Dakota have been awarded grants totaling almost $3.6 million for airport construction and maintenance projects. “North Dakota’s airports are experiencing tremendous growth,” said the delegation. “These grants will fund construction and maintenance projects that are needed to meet the increased demand we’re seeing in airports across the state.” The following grants were awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration: Grand Forks International Airport will receive almost $2.5 million to construct a snow removal equipment building and to renovate the runway and taxiway lighting systems. Edgeley Municipal Airport will receive $451,800 to construct a hangar building. State of North Dakota will receive $332,379 to update the state airport system study plan to address aviation needs impacted by energy development and economic growth. Bottineau Municipal Airport will receive $150,000 to update the existing master plan with updates to the airport layout and to identify future airport needs. Stanley Municipal Airport will receive $150,000 to construct an apron to provide needed aircraft parking at the airport. Mott Municipal Airport will receive $33,750 to seal and rehabilitate the runway. The grants were awarded by the U.S Department of Transportation with funds appropriated by Congress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=51245978-84a3-437e-b42f-e5d12ebe39dc | Heitkamp Helps Break Ground for North Dakota’s Newest Ethanol Plant | 2013-08-09 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | SPIRITWOOD, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today touted North Dakota’s leadership with an all-of-the-above energy approach while helping break ground at the new Dakota Spirit AgEnergy Ethanol Biorefinery. Heitkamp has continued to aggressively push for policies on the national level to support North Dakota’s energy development, while also expanding the state’s successful approaches throughout the country to help the U.S. become energy independent. “By expanding the use of biofuels – particularly ethanol – in North Dakota, we’re reinforcing the strength of our state’s diverse energy resources. Those at the Dakota Spirit AgEnergy Ethanol Biorefinery have been incredible partners as their new plant will not only be more efficient and lower our carbon footprint, but it will also support well-paying jobs in the community and help our corn growers expand their operations,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “This project is another reminder that biofuels are a legitimate renewable resource that could help lead us toward North American energy independence, while also supporting great jobs in our rural communities.” Last year, officials from Dakota Spirit AgEnergy reached out to Heitkamp to let her know that they were at a standstill with EPA on the approval process for the plant and could face problems if the delays persisted. Heitkamp made it a priority and put pressure on the agency to get this done, and now the refinery is underway. Since taking office, Heitkamp has continually pushed for energy policies to allow states like North Dakota to develop their natural resources without the federal government burdening this development and production with excessive regulations. This week, Heitkamp hosted U.S. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell in the state to showcase how North Dakota is aggressively developing its energy resources and to help the Secretary better understand North Dakota’s comprehensive, states-first approach to energy development. “This is yet another example of our state sup… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5676d2b7-771e-4ad7-8e8e-1008b2e5586b | Heitkamp Presents Award to North Dakota Special Olympics Silver Medalist | 2013-08-09 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | JAMESTOWN, N.D. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today presented Blaine Schulz from Jamestown with an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol. Schulz competed in the 200-meter snowshoe run at the Special Olympics Winter World Games in South Korea last February where he finished as a silver medalist with a time of 32.74 seconds. “Blaine is an inspiration to so many in Jamestown, North Dakota, and across the country,” said Senator Heitkamp. “He continues to show over and over again what you can achieve if you work hard and put your mind to something. And Blaine embodies the true spirit of North Dakota every time he represents us at the Special Olympics. I’m so proud of him, and I look forward to hearing more about his future competitions and, of course, future awards.” Click here to view a photo of Senator Heitkamp with Blaine Schulz. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c451c833-32b8-457e-ae94-76becc216a3b | Heitkamp Reaction to President’s Speech on Housing Finance | 2013-08-06 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WILLISTON, ND – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, today released the following statement after President Barack Obama’s remarks regarding the need to reform our housing system. The President specifically mentioned Heitkamp’s legislation to reform America’s broken housing finance system. In reference to the bipartisan bill Heitkamp recently introduced with seven other Senators, the President said, “The good news is that there’s a bipartisan group of Senators working to end Fannie and Freddie as we know them. And I support these kinds of reform efforts.” I applaud the President’s plans to strengthen the U.S. housing market, particularly for middle class families. The President’s speech further reinforced the importance of the bipartisan bill I helped write to reform our housing finance system. The legislation would replace Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with a privately capitalized system that would protect taxpayers while still maintaining market liquidity. A strong housing finance system is critical in North Dakota today, given the housing crisis we face as a result of our economic boom. Projections suggest that by 2025 we will need 30 percent more housing units in our state. Housing finance reform is necessary to ensure community banks and credit unions can participate in the financing of our rapid housing growth, while also making sure homeowners have access to 30-year-fixed-rate mortgages. I ran for the U.S. Senate because I wanted to help find solutions to major problems facing our country. The problems in our housing finance system are some of those major issues I want address. For far too long, Washington has kicked the can down the road. With the President’s remarks today, there is momentum for our legislation. I am committed to moving forward a bipartisan plan that protects taxpayers, provides certainty to the industry, and ensures that the 30-year-fixed-rate mortgage is available for North Dakotans in the future. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=dbaea923-6bfb-41ce-b7ae-0c51c75ed763 | Heitkamp, Hoeven Welcome Interior Sec. Jewell to ND, Showcase State's Robust Energy Development, Good Environmental Stewardship | 2013-08-06 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WILLISTON, N.D. – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven today welcomed U.S. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell to North Dakota’s oil patch and accompanied her on a tour of oil production facilities. The purpose of the visit is to showcase how North Dakota is aggressively developing its energy resources and to help the secretary better understand North Dakota’s comprehensive, states-first approach to energy development. As head of the Interior Department, Secretary Jewell plays a key role in energy development on public and tribal lands, and other issues important to North Dakota and the state’s tribes. “North Dakota’s states-first approach to energy development under Empower North Dakota has made us the fastest growing state in America,” Hoeven said. “Under the oversight and guidance of competent and experienced state authorities, an all of-the-above strategy to develop both our traditional and renewable resources has helped to produce the lowest unemployment rate and the fastest growing income in the nation. We wanted Secretary Jewell to see the progress we’ve made by deploying new technologies that are producing more energy with better environmental stewardship, and have asked her to partner with us to do the same for America, which will help us to attain the long-sought goal of true North American energy independence for our nation.” “North Dakota is on the forefront of developing and harnessing our vast natural resources,” said Senator Heitkamp. “We are pursuing advancements in everything from oil, gas, and coal to wind and biofuels. When we say all-of-the-above, we mean it. Our state’s comprehensive energy developments are paving the way towards national energy security and North American Energy independence. Secretary Jewell’s visit provided the Administration a firsthand view of the commitment North Dakota has to responsibly developing all of our natural resources. Secretary Jewell was able to see the rapid progress that we’ve made in North Dakota, and will bring these energy development lessons back … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=070c6459-a742-44ba-9fdc-42e660167235 | Heitkamp Lays Out Priorities for Farm Bill Negotiations | 2013-08-05 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Before a conference committee between the Senate and House meets to reconcile the differences in their respective Farm Bills, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today laid out her priorities to ensure the legislation reflects the interests of North Dakota farmers and ranchers. “It is crucial that the negotiated legislation will work for North Dakota producers, and can pass in both the Senate and House,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “As the Senate wrote a long-term bipartisan farm bill, I worked tirelessly to include a number of provisions to make it better for North Dakota. And I will continue to push for them as we work out a compromise farm bill. Having Senator Hoeven on the conference committee is a very good thing for our state and I believe he will be able to help protect provisions we fought together for in the Senate-passed version.” In a letter to the leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, Heitkamp highlighted key features of the Farm Bill that are important to include in the final version of the legislation. In particular, Heitkamp stressed the importance of policies that recognize the needs of states that experience wet seasons, take into account large counties that require farm level programs, and the necessity of the reauthorization of livestock disaster programs. Additionally, Heitkamp advocated for the inclusion of a number of research and development programs important to producers in the Upper Plains Region. The Senate has appointed conferees, including North Dakota Senator John Hoeven, and is waiting on the House to do the same before the conference committee begins its work. Below is the full letter Senator Heitkamp sent to the leadership of the two Agriculture Committees: Dear Chairwoman Stabenow, Chairman Lucas, Ranking Member Cochran, and Ranking Member Peterson: I write to thank you for your leadership in crafting and passing a Farm Bill through the Senate and House of Representatives. The fight to provide rural Americans and a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=70085f28-d551-46e5-a1c2-689f93ff3ce0 | Heitkamp Introduces Amendment to Fund Needed Construction at Tribal Colleges | 2013-08-02 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp introduced legislation to make more funds available for construction at Tribal Colleges. The funding would help North Dakota’s tribal colleges build new classrooms, offices, libraries, and other educational facilities which many of the colleges are currently unable to afford. Senator Heitkamp offered an amendment to the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill to provide $5 million for much-needed improvements. “While our tribal colleges receive very little funding, there are enormous construction needs to update and improve the campuses,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “Right now, many of North Dakota’s Tribal Colleges have huge needs for new classrooms and libraries that would improve students’ education, but unfortunately many of the colleges don’t have the funding to make it happen. My proposal would change that and give these schools a chance to upgrade their facilities, as they continue to work to offer students more educational opportunities. This amendment certainly isn’t a cure-all for Tribal Colleges, but it is a step in the right direction and I will continue to fight for it.” Heitkamp’s amendment would provide $5 million to the Tribal Colleges and Universities Program (TCUP), which offers competitive grants to tribal schools. Funding is used for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of facilities, including child care centers and housing units. Over the years, North Dakota tribal colleges have received crucial grants under TCUP, including funding for class improvements, libraries, water systems, and wellness centers. Unfortunately, the larger appropriations bill was blocked this week, but Heitkamp will continue her push to support funding for Tribal colleges. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7a2c9969-0338-48d5-aa5f-52682839409d | Senator Heitkamp Hosts Twitter Town Hall on Education | 2013-08-02 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact Senator Heitkamp's press office at press@heitkamp.senate.gov | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7b5ad391-d480-4af3-b02f-922cda13165e | Heitkamp, Hoeven and Cramer Announce $3.4 Million Grants For Airport Infrastructure, Improvements | 2013-08-02 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | DELEGATION ANNOUNCES $3.4 MILLION GRANTS FOR AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE, IMPROVEMENTS WASHINGTON – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that airports across North Dakota have been awarded grants totaling more than $3.4 million for airport construction and maintenance projects. “North Dakota’s airports are seeing tremendous growth. These grants will begin to ensure that airports across our state are able to expand to meet growing needs and update existing runways and other infrastructure to safely meet the needs of our people,” said the delegation. The following grants were awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration: Langdon Municipal Airport Authority will receive $642,434 to mill and overlay of the existing apron pavement at Robertson Field Airport. Rugby Municipal Airport will receive $637,000 to rehabilitate the existing apron pavement and the runway. Cando Municipal Airport will receive $631,331 for construction of a taxiway to provide access to aircraft hangars and the design of a hangar building. Carrington Municipal Airport will receive $591,586 to construct a hangar building, rehabilitate the runway and add lighting to enhance safety. Glen Ullin Municipal Airport will receive $300,000 to rehabilitate the runway and construct a fuel facility. Lisbon Municipal Airport will receive $300,000 to rehabilitate the runway, apron and other pavement and the design of a hangar building. Wahpeton Airport Authority will receive $134,992 for land acquired to enhance approach protection. Golden Valley Airport Authority will receive $59,032 for runway rehabilitation and to construct a fuel facility at Beach Airport. Washburn Municipal Airport will receive $53,100 for the design of an apron and to widen the taxiway. Mercer County Regional Airport Authority will receive $48,600 to rehabilitate the runway. City of Kindred will receive $30,456 to improve airport drainage and eliminate ponding on the airfield surfaces at Hamry Field Airport. The… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d5c0be0e-0ee3-40b3-85fa-3458960231ae | Heitkamp Helps Introduce Updated Empower States Act To Boost Domestic Oil And Gas Production, Grow U.S. Economy, Create Jobs | 2013-08-02 | 2013 | 2013-08 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven Thursday announced that he has filed an updated version of the Empower States Act, a measure he authored that will put states first in the regulation of hydraulic fracturing. The senator said every state’s geology is different and nobody knows better than local professionals and authorities how best to protect their own environment. The measure is being cosponsored by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Mary Landrieu (D-La.) and David Vitter (R-La.). “The Empower States Act drives home the importance of states in the effort to develop affordable energy supplies from domestic resources, which helps to create good jobs and economic opportunity for the American people,” Hoeven said. “States have a long and respected record of effectively regulating oil and gas development, including hydraulic fracturing, with good environmental stewardship.” “North Dakota’s oil and gas production and development are unique compared to the rest of the country,” said Heitkamp. “And because of that, we need to make sure that our state maintains the ability to be the primary regulator for energy development in the Bakken, as we understand what’s happening on the ground better than anyone else. I’m proud to cosponsor a bill that would help make that possible.” The Empower States Act helps to ensure that states retain the right to manage oil and gas production and gives them the ability to develop hydraulic fracturing rules and to respond first to any violation. Hoeven said the individual states are the first and best responders to oil and gas issues because they know their land and have a stake in protecting their environment. States have been successful in developing oil and gas production with good environmental stewardship, he said. The bill also allows the states to regulate oil and gas development on Bureau of Land Management lands if the state has laws and regulations in place that protect health and the environment. Hoeven cited a recent letter Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=caecc53f-0d13-4f3b-a93d-d9c4df1af320 | Hoeven, Heitkamp Announce Projects to Improve Housing Options & Build Community Centers at Grand Forks and Minot Air Force Bases, and Cavalier Air Force Station | 2013-07-31 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Abbie McDonough/Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp today announced that the Grand Forks Air Force Base, Minot Air Force Base, and Cavalier Air Force Station will participate in a new initiative offering improved, affordable housing and new community centers at some locations for military families. Hoeven and Heitkamp pushed for this project to support the hardworking servicemembers at the Air Force Bases and Station, which will bring construction jobs to the local economy, and ensure quality housing for years to come. The Bases and Station will participate in the Air Force’s Military Housing Privatization Initiative project, a Defense Department project which shifts the operations and maintenance responsibility of family housing from the military to a private company with expertise in building and managing housing. The initiative aims to prevent the military from bearing the cost of housing upgrades for servicemembers, enabling it to instead focus on its mission. Hoeven, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, said: “The purpose of the initiative is to provide military families, who sacrifice so much for us, access to quality, affordable, well-maintained housing on the base so that service members can focus on the important mission they’ve undertaken to defend our nation. We have insisted that the plan improve the quality of life for our military men and women, and the plan includes building a community center with indoor playground and splash park, tennis courts, volleyball courts, picnic areas and other recreational facilities throughout the housing community.” “My top priorities for the Base and Station are to support military families, while bringing good paying jobs to the local economy. This project will do both,” said Heitkamp, co-founder of the Senate Defense Communities Caucus. “In numerous conversations, I have listened to top military officials praise our military facilities and the dedicated … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3e00c585-6c70-4cfa-aa17-87adf6cefb55 | Heitkamp (@SenatorHeitkamp) to Host Her First Twitter Town Hall to Discuss Education with North Dakotans | 2013-07-26 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (@SenatorHeitkamp) will host a Twitter Town Hall next Thursday, August 1, starting at 10:45 a.m. CT. “I am looking forward to a great discussion about education with folks on Twitter,” said Heitkamp. “This is an opportunity for me to hear directly from North Dakotans about what we can do to improve education – from early childhood education all the way through college. In addition to in-person meetings, phone calls, emails and letters, Twitter is another way for me to connect and hear from everyone back home. I hope to hear from as many North Dakotans as possible.” Improving the country’s education system is one of Heitkamp’s top policy goals. This week, Heitkamp helped pass a bipartisan student loan bill that allows students to take advantage of historically low interest rates, locks the rate in for the life of the loan and caps future rates. Heitkamp also wrote legislation to assist individuals saddled with costly, private student loans repay. An ardent supporter of early childhood education, Heitkamp continually pushes for increased Head Start funding. Starting today, anyone following @SenatorHeitkamp on Twitter can begin submitting questions about education issues by including #AskHeidiH with their tweet. How it works: - Log on to www.Twitter.com today through the end of the town hall on Thursday. - Post a tweet with a question about education, followed by your hometown and #AskHeidiH. For example: What can we do to address existing student loan debt? Casselton #AskHeidiH - Senator Heitkamp will reply to as many tweets as possible regarding education. Twitter Town Hall Who: Senator Heidi Heitkamp When: Thursday, August 1, 2013 10:45 a.m. CT Where: @SenatorHeitkamp ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8babba14-a853-4b76-9202-ae08fc5edb0a | Heitkamp Announces Fall Internship Opportunities in Washington, DC and North Dakota | 2013-07-25 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, D.C. – Senator Heidi Heitkamp today announced that she will offer fall and spring internships in her Washington, D.C. and state offices. Heitkamp is seeking motivated individuals who want experiential education in public service. The internship program is a hands-on learning experience, allowing interns to work side-by-side with Heitkamp’s Senate professional staff as they work on behalf of North Dakotans. “There’s nothing more encouraging than seeing North Dakota’s young people engaged in the political process,” Heitkamp said. “Interns in my office have the chance to serve North Dakota, while also gaining real-world skills and witnessing government in action.” Washington, D.C. interns work in the areas of legislation, press, or scheduling and help ensure the smooth operation of her Capitol Hill office. In North Dakota, interns work alongside outreach staff and have the opportunity to learn about the constituent advocacy process firsthand. North Dakota internships are offered in the Bismarck, Fargo, Minot, Dickinson, and Grand Forks offices. Successful candidates will be those who demonstrate leadership, thoughtfulness, creativity, a strong attention to detail, and a sense of public service. Preference will be given to students who are from North Dakota. To apply, visit https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/?p=internships. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d489d4f2-c3f9-4734-a18a-5939759685fc | Heitkamp, Bipartisan Coalition Introduce Reauthorization of Proven Tribal Housing Law | 2013-07-25 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp and a bipartisan coalition of Senators today introduced legislation to reauthorize the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA). The law, which is scheduled to expire September 30, 2013, supports efforts to provide safe and affordable housing to American Indians. “Reauthorizing this tribal housing bill is vital for ensuring safe, affordable housing on North Dakota’s reservations,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “Tackling housing challenges in tribal communities is one critical aspect of addressing broader housing problems throughout the state of North Dakota.” In 1996, Congress first passed NAHASDA to help ensure that Tribes and their members are provided safe and affordable housing, and that housing programs meet the needs of Tribal members well into the future. NAHASDA helps address a critical need for housing assistance in Indian Country, where more than 28% of reservation households lack adequate plumbing and kitchen facilities, while nationally only 5.4% of households lack such infrastructure. This bill improves the current law by: Increasing usage of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits by developers and investors that target projects serving Indian communities. Elimination of duplicative requirements when multiple agencies are involved in a housing-related project by identifying the majority federal partner and using that agency’s standards. Allowing Tribes access to the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program Promoting clean energy and sustainable projects by raising the total development cost ceilings cited as barriers to building energy-efficient housing. An estimated 200,000 housing units are needed immediately in Indian Country and approximately 90,000 Native families are homeless or under-housed. A 2009 Annual Homeless Assessment Report found that Native Americans make up 8% of the country’s homeless … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=11c27a43-0904-4f08-a856-2c345a256c89 | Heitkamp Statement on Student Loan Bill | 2013-07-24 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp issued this statement following Senate passage of the bipartisan student loan bill. The legislation allows students to take advantage of historically low interest rates, locks the rate in for the life of the loan and caps future rates. Instead of kicking the can down the road, today we agreed to a long-term solution on student loans. We passed a bill that will provide students and parents certainty that there will be access to affordable financing options. Moreover, our legislation will give immediate relief to North Dakota students. In addition to finding a long-term solution, capping future interest rates was a top priority for me during our negotiations. I wanted students to be able to take advantage of the current low interest rates, but I insisted the rate be capped so future students are secure if conditions change. Now we must turn our attention to the increasing cost of higher education and helping students address existing debt. For our state and country to be successful, higher education must be affordable. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8cca2920-8a07-49b7-8858-4d9d3a2e8b2d | Addressing National Opinion Leaders, Heitkamp Makes Case for Keystone XL Approval | 2013-07-23 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today made the case for Administration approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline while addressing national opinion leaders. During a policy briefing hosted by The Hill newspaper and the American Petroleum Institute, Heitkamp highlighted the national security benefits of producing more North American fuel. Heitkamp has continually pushed for an all-of-the-above energy policy to end our dependence on energy supplies from unstable and unsafe places around the world. “North America can clearly become energy independent,” Heitkamp said to a room full of reporters and industry officials. “But it is going to take an energy policy like we have in North Dakota. A lot of politicians talk about an all-of-the-above energy plan, but their actions don’t often match their words. “It has taken this administration longer to make a decision on the Keystone pipeline than it took us to beat Hitler in WWII, which is pretty amazing,” Heitkamp continued. “Working with our good friends to the North, it is in America’s interest to include Canadian resources in our resource mix.” -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3a68ad06-9f27-4d78-8f10-0d1a053f631d | Tester, Heitkamp seek solutions to beat drug abuse in the Bakken | 2013-07-19 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 (U.S. SENATE) – Senators Jon Tester and Heidi Heitkamp today brought one of the nation’s biggest names in drug control to Montana and North Dakota to discuss ways to defeat drug abuse in the Bakken oil region. At hearings in Glendive and Bismarck, Tester and Heitkamp heard testimony and took questions alongside National Drug Control Policy Director R. Gil Kerlikowske. The trio, joined by numerous local and state officials, talked about the best ways to prevent drug abuse, improve treatment, and build healthier and safer communities across the growing region. “Growth in the Bakken is strengthening our economy and creating new jobs and opportunities in Montana, but with that growth comes challenges,” Tester said. “Drug abuse is one of those challenges and today we got to hear firsthand how to support rural communities and make sure we are doing everything we can to prevent drug use and help folks lead safe, healthy lives.” “My goal with these meeting was to give North Dakota officials an opportunity to speak directly with Director Kerlikowske as we work to root out drug abuse and crime,” said Heitkamp. “This trip will certainly help Director Kerlikowske as he works with the President to address the unique drug challenges that states in the Northern Great Plains face. I will coordinate closely with North Dakota and federal officials to tackle these challenges.” In the most recent National Survey of Drug Use and Health, Montana was one of the top 10 states for rates in several drug-use categories, including illicit drug dependence or abuse among young people. Just this month, federal law enforcement announced an indictment of more than 20 individuals charged with running a major drug ring in northwest North Dakota. Tester and Heitkamp were joined by North Dakota Senator John Hoeven in Bismarck. “Today’s discussions in North Dakota and Montana serve as important forums for our states to join together in our continued efforts to prevent and address the negative impa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=a1ebf118-5199-476e-bbf9-69ffa8399f1b | Heitkamp, Secretary of Transportation Meet to Discuss ND Transportation Needs | 2013-07-19 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today met with Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx to discuss North Dakota’s unique transportation needs. Specifically, Heitkamp told the Secretary about the need for further and continued investment in rural highways, airport infrastructure, and essential air service. Heitkamp also made the case for locating an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Test Bed in Grand Forks. “As the oil patch continues to support America’s need for energy, North Dakota’s much-used air and ground transportation infrastructure requires increased attention—especially in rural areas and on our reservations,” Heitkamp said. “Policies must be in place to support rural transportation and the interstate highway system, which are crucial to both the economy of North Dakota and to the economy of the nation as a whole. I encouraged Secretary Foxx to give proper consideration to the transportation needs of rural communities, which faces the unique challenge of high capital infrastructure needs and low density populations.” Explosive growth in the oil patch region of North Dakota has stressed the transportation infrastructure of the entire state. Meeting the increased transportation demands for residents and travelers requires increased investments in the highway and air travel systems. In particular, the widening of U.S. Highway 85 and the expansion of the Williston, Dickinson, Minot and Bowman airports were discussed in the meeting. North Dakota’s rural roads and interstate highways are critical conduits for local and national travel. For instance, highways in the state serve as important arteries for goods travelling from out-of-state population centers to export locations on the east and west coasts and northern border. Additionally, safe and modern roadways are essential in supporting the state’s strong agricultural industry and growing oil and gas industry. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=1917561b-bc5a-4428-b952-714362c102d1 | Heitkamp Statement on Confirmation of McCarthy As Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency | 2013-07-18 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, DC–U. S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) today issued the following statement about her vote to confirm Gina McCarthy as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency: While I continue to have serious concerns with the EPA, the President needs to be able to put his team in place. An agency with such far reaching regulatory authority should not be allowed to be a rudderless ship. I met with Gina and found her straightforward, transparent, willing to discuss and debate the tough issues, and most importantly, open and inclusive when it comes to regulatory issues at the EPA. We won’t agree all of the time – we will probably not see eye to eye very often – but I feel Gina is someone who will provide all stakeholders a seat at the table. I let Gina know that there needs to be a path forward for coal in our current and future energy mix. She is aware that I will continue to fight for coal-fired power and its crucial place in our national energy portfolio. I look forward to working with Secretary McCarthy and hope she is sincere in her remarks to make EPA a more inclusive and open agency that will seriously consider the real-world economic costs and energy and business impacts of any proposed regulation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=e4ecfd0d-0d54-4258-92dd-afc21215eb55 | Bringing Together Veterans, VA Officials to Improve Care | 2013-07-18 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 As our country was preparing to celebrate Independence Day earlier this month, I traveled our state to hear the needs of our veterans. This was a wonderful opportunity for me to hear directly from veterans about how we can ensure they are receiving the support they were promised. From WWII vets to our young servicemembers just home from Afghanistan, the information shared at our meetings was invaluable. I brought top North Dakota VA officials on the tour so veterans could ask questions and voice concerns directly to VA leaders. I appreciate their open participation. At a young age, I was taught to always honor our servicemembers. When my father returned from WWII, he started the first VFW in Mantador, ND. It was one of the smallest Posts in the country, but it allowed dad and his friends a place to discuss their experiences and organize efforts to improve policy for veterans. Our state has one of the highest rates of military service – more than four times the national average. It is my honor to represent our brave veterans as a U.S. Senator, and I will always work to fulfill our sacred commitment to those who have served our nation. On my six-city tour, I heard from veterans from all walks of life who are facing many of the same day-to-day challenges. One of the top issues that came up was the difficultly our rural veterans face traveling to VA health centers. While our state has many dedicated volunteers to transport vets, the travel is often grueling. Some vets have to travel seven-plus hours, do chemotherapy, wait for other patients, then ride home the same day. As one who has experienced chemo, this is an incredibly difficult experience for veterans. It is clear that we need to expand vets’ access to services at other hospitals, with the VA reimbursing the costs. I also heard from many young vets who are suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These men and women repeatedly expressed the dire concerns about the ability to file insurance or disab… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8bffd502-8768-40c5-b1d0-94b119efdc9b | Hoeven, Heitkamp, Cramer: Funds Willl Help Support Much-Needed Housing, Provide For Least Fortunate | 2013-07-17 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, (202) 224-2043 WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that North Dakota will receive four awards from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) totaling over $7.5 million. The funds will come from HUD’s Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program. “The development of safe, affordable housing is absolutely necessary to relieve the strain and high-costs our residents face due to North Dakota’s severe flooding and housing shortages,” said the delegation in a joint statement. “These funds will help build stronger communities, provide shelter and housing for least fortunate among us and support North Dakota’s continued economic growth.” The awards include over $4 million in CDBG funds, about $360,000 in ESG funds and $3 million in HOME funds. These programs support a wide range of community needs, including affordable housing, emergency homeless shelters and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income persons. The delegation has worked to provide emergency disaster relief funds through HUD programs to address unmet needs in parts of North Dakota affected by severe flooding. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Hoeven worked to include funding for housing programs that meet North Dakota priorities in the annual appropriations bills. Following the 2011 flooding, Hoeven also worked to secure $121 million in flood recovery assistance for North Dakota through the CDBG Disaster Relief program. Heitkamp is a member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee. The Committee oversees federal housing policy, including HUD and the CDBG program. Heitkamp, who has spent an extensive amount of time working with North Dakota stakeholders to address the state’s housing crisis, is committed to expanding and improving the CDBG program to support North Dakota’s housing needs. In his first month in office… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=695f7ef9-6256-47ed-be1b-31772dd3f9a0 | Heitkamp Presses USDA for Clarity in Prevented Plant Policy, Encourages Crop Insurance Companies to Begin Adjusting ND Claims | 2013-07-16 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today met with senior officials from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to discuss the impact of abnormally high moisture on the growing season in North Dakota. Senator Heitkamp pressed USDA Deputy Secretary nominee Krysta Harden to improve prevented plant policies at the Risk Management Agency (RMA) so that crop insurance providers will have clarity to process eligible claims. If confirmed, Harden will be the No. 2 official at USDA. “With 4.4 million acres prevented from planting in North Dakota, it is imperative that the RMA get the crop insurance policies right so all growers receive the coverage they paid for,” said Heitkamp. “As the extent of the harm from the wet season becomes clearer, it is also important that crop insurance companies get adjusters in the field to assess and document claims so that every eligible acre gets covered. I stand at the ready to defend any legitimate claim honored by crop insurance companies to North Dakota growers. What is most important now is that the claims begin to get processed.” Under RMA guidelines, growers are eligible to compensation for losses from prevented planting if they have been able to put in at least one crop over the previous four years. Additionally, if a grower plants once in a four year window, USDA requires that the conditions for planting be normal precipitation. Crop insurance adjusters and farmers are concerned about the lack of direction provided by RMA regarding what constitutes normal precipitation. The meeting with USDA officials today follows previous discussions regarding prevented plant crop insurance policies hosted by Senator Heitkamp with Acting USDA Deputy Secretary Michael Scuse and RMA Administrator Brandon Willis. The RMA is responsible for setting policies for the Federal Crop Insurance Program, which provides coverage to growers that are prevented from planting a crop due to abnormally wet conditions. Senator Heitkamp recentl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=867cfed9-d868-4241-bf63-af62fdf05531 | Heitkamp Warns of Student Loan Debt-Relief Companies | 2013-07-15 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Banking Committee, today urged students to be aware of companies that mischaracterize government loan programs as their own, and charge students fees to use government services that are actually free. After a recent report was released on the activity, Heitkamp called on the Obama Administration to investigate the practice, fully enforce relevant laws and consider new rules. “Americans with student loan debt should be protected from companies charging exorbitant fees to reconsolidate loans while using government programs,” Heitkamp said. “Student loan repayment should be a clear and manageable process—we owe that to our students.” Following a report from the National Consumer Law Center entitled “Desperate Borrowers and the Growing Student Loan Debt Relief Industry,” Heitkamp sent a letter urging the Department of Education, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to look closely at student loan debt relief companies. The letter urges the federal government to enforce existing laws and consider new rules to protect American students. At a recent Banking hearing on private student loans, Heitkamp questioned a CFPB official about predatory lending in the private student loan market. “They sound a lot like the predatory lending that we’ve experienced with home mortgages and consumer debt,” Heitkamp said at the hearing, asking what the Federal Government is doing to educate consumers and to warn students about predatory lending practices. Click here to read the letter Senator Heitkamp sent to the Administration. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8bfc0ee3-5679-43e5-8c16-f4ad0cf0b253 | Delegation Announces $6.9 Million in Loans and Grants for Water Infrastructure in Rural Communities | 2013-07-12 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that two North Dakota communities, Rolla and Hazelton, have been awarded $6.9 million in water and waste disposal loans and grants from the Office of Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The funds will support the communities’ efforts to replace and improve old water systems, ensuring adequate water distribution, eliminating health risks and providing fire protection for residents. “Infrastructure development is vital to maintaining healthy communities,” said the delegation in a joint statement. “These funds will not only help meet the needs of long-time residents, but will support growth in these communities. Furthermore, by distributing the larger part of these funds as low-cost loans, we ensure that communities are invested in the projects while improving our government’s fiscal situation.” The following is the funding breakdown for each community: The City of Rolla will receive a grant of $1.9 million and a low-interest, 40-year loan of $2.3 million. The City of Hazelton will receive a grant of $1.2 million and a low-interest, 40-year loan of $1.5 million. As members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senators Hoeven and Heitkamp have worked to include infrastructure programs for rural communities as part of a comprehensive, five-year farm bill. Hoeven also worked in the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee to make sure funding was appropriated for USDA Rural Development programs, including the water and waste disposal program. Heitkamp, as Chair of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Jobs, Rural Economic Growth and Energy Innovation, oversees the rural development and infrastructure policies at USDA. She is committed to ensuring access for rural communities to financing needed to make critical infrastructure investments. Heitkamp supported provisions in the Senate-passed Farm Bill to provide needed resources to address the applications backlog for Water and Wastew… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=849fe9c3-2048-4b5f-8103-96ad2166d763 | Heitkamp Statement on House Passage of Farm Bill | 2013-07-11 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement today after the House of Representatives passed its version of a Farm Bill. I am pleased the House finally passed legislation to move us closer to passing into law a five-year Farm Bill. However, I am concerned the bill that does not address nutrition policies. Passing a Farm Bill into law requires bipartisan support, something the House has shown no interest in. House members – who passed their bill by a razor thin margin with only Republican support – needs to work in a bipartisan fashion to get this work done. Authorizing nutrition policies in the Farm Bill is necessary to maintaining the critical urban-rural coalition that has been relied upon to pass Farm Bills for the past four decades. Breaking this coalition and severing ties between farm and table is a mistake that weakens the chances that a five-year reauthorization of the Farm Bill becomes law. I encourage my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to conference this legislation into a product that can pass both chambers of Congress. I am committed to passing a five-year Farm Bill into law that provides the certainty that is desperately needed in our state and in rural communities throughout the country. The farmers and ranchers of North Dakota deserve nothing less. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c09ec288-5652-473f-a0b3-7e2528d6d714 | Heitkamp: New VA Initiative to Improve Transportation Services for Rural Veterans | 2013-07-11 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Todd Deutsch , 202.224.9921 Washington, DC—U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today applauded the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for its new initiative to expand transportation services to veterans living in highly rural areas. Heitkamp recently held listening sessions with North Dakota veterans and VA officials to discuss the unique issues veterans face in the state. One of the major needs North Dakota veterans voiced was the lack of adequate transportation services to VA medical facilities. “It’s critical that we respond to the needs of our veterans,” Heitkamp said. “The VA’s new initiative is a smart and much-needed response to a sentiment I heard from veterans throughout the state. Lack of transportation should never prevent veterans from getting the care they deserve.” Transportation services will be provided at no cost to veterans. VSOs and State Veterans Service Agencies will be able to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to fund transportation services to and from VA centers. Below is the full VA release: VA Grants Will Expand Transportation in Highly Rural Areas Veterans to Have Easier Access to Health Care WASHINGTON – Veterans will have improved access to health care under a Department of Veterans Affairs initiative that supports new transportation services for those living in highly rural areas. VA began accepting applications this month for grants to help state Veterans Service Agencies and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) operate or contract for transportation services to transport Veterans to VA medical centers and other facilities that provide VA care. A new regulation establishes the program that will administer these grants. Transportation will be provided at no cost to Veterans. “VA wants to be sure that all Veterans, including those who live in rural and remote areas, can receive the health care they have earned through service to our country,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “State Veterans Agencies and VSOs will now be able to employ innovative app… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=cac6f83a-a7ee-4e57-85bf-8bae796781c6 | Heitkamp-Backed Balanced Budget Amendment Introduced | 2013-07-11 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp is supporting an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to require a balanced Federal budget. Heitkamp is a cosponsor of the Balanced Budget Amendment, which was introduced today. To read the proposed Balanced Budget Amendment, click here. “This amendment is far overdue. There is bipartisan agreement that we need to get our fiscal house in order, and I am looking forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move in that direction,” Heitkamp said. “In North Dakota, we believe in fiscal responsibility. With our national debt sitting at more than $16 trillion, it is time for the Federal Government to follow North Dakota’s lead and start budgeting responsibly.” The Balanced Budget Amendment protects all revenue generated for Social Security to ensure the program is secure. Additionally, the Balanced Budget Amendment would prohibit Congress from providing income tax breaks for people earning over $1 million per year, unless the country is running surpluses. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6814c899-0331-4a74-bbdb-3d3fe0597259 | Heitkamp Welcomes Eight Summer Interns to Washington and North Dakota Offices | 2013-07-10 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Todd Deutsch: 202.224.9921 Washington, D.C.—Senator Heidi Heitkamp today announced eight students are interning this summer in her Bismarck, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Washington D.C. offices. “I am excited to have a group of bright, hard-working North Dakotan students in my Washington and in-state offices,” Heitkamp said. “An internship with a Senate office is a great way to serve the people of North Dakota. It also allows young people to witness the legislative process in a hands-on capacity, working side-by-side with my staff.” Cora Bollinger, Jared Gilmour, and Jessica Roscoe are interning in Senator Heitkamp’s Washington, D.C. office. Cora Bollinger is from Mapleton and graduated from West Fargo High School. She just completed her sophomore year at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. She is majoring in political science and minoring in French and public health. New Rockford native Jessica Roscoe will be a senior at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., where she studies communication and global studies. Jessica recently studied abroad in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Jared Gilmour, from Fargo, will be a senior at Northwestern University in Chicago, where he studies journalism and English. In 2010 he graduated from Fargo North High School. Bismarck native William Woodworth is working in Senator Heitkamp’s Bismarck office. William will graduate with his Bachelor and Master of Public Administration degrees in May 2014 from the University of North Dakota. Bryce Hample interns in Senator Heitkamp’s Fargo office. He grew up on a farm in LaMoure and recently graduated from NDSU with a major in horticulture and agriculture production business. Michael Steve interns in Senator Heitkamp’s Dickinson office. A Dickinson native, he graduated from Dickinson High School in 2009. In spring 2013 he graduated from North Dakota State University with a Bachelor in Accounting. Minot native Anna Jastrzembski interns in Senator Heitkamp’s Minot office. She is a senior pursuing a degree in compa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=efd17610-3a06-4980-8692-4d35c9941dc5 | Heitkamp Gets Commitment from Postmaster General to Help Solve North Dakota Postal Service Challenges | 2013-07-10 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp secured a commitment today from Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe’s to help solve some of the postal challenges facing North Dakota. Heitkamp met with Donahoe along with Senator Tom Carper, the Chairman of the Committee overseeing the United States Postal Service (USPS). The Postmaster promised assistance in meeting hiring challenges in North Dakota and improved service for oil field housing units. “I appreciate Postmaster Donahoe’s commitment to addressing challenges facing rural postal service. I look forward to working with Chairman Carper and Postmaster Donahoe on these important issues and seeing these improvements implemented,” said Heitkamp a member of the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, which oversees USPS. “Issues impacting rural America are often overlooked in our debates. Since I took office, I have worked to make sure the Postmaster understands the impact of postal service changes on our way of life in North Dakota.” A key postal issue in western North Dakota has been the inability of many oil field workers to receive mail. Delivering mail to oil field housing units presents challenges, but Donahoe committed Wednesday to develop strategies to overcome this by setting up clusters of boxes and even developing new addresses as needed to provide access. Heitkamp thinks it is unacceptable that some of her constituents cannot receive mail, especially those who need prescriptions delivered. The economic expansion in western North Dakota has also led to increased staffing needs at local post offices and processing facilities. Donahoe said he would work with local hiring officials to get them the needed authority to hire additional employees. During the meeting, Heitkamp also called on Carper and Donahoe to focus on the rural impact of any potential service changes, such as a switch to some form of five-day delivery. Heitkamp reiterated that she does not think a switch to five-day delivery would bri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=d137c122-3437-446c-92c3-4038c54d9dce | Heitkamp, Top Air Force Official Meet to Discuss Needs of America’s Defense Communities | 2013-07-09 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202-224-9921 Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, co-founder of the Defense Communities Caucus, today met with Acting Assistant Air Force Secretary Kathleen Ferguson to discuss the needs of America’s defense communities. Secretary Ferguson reached out to Heitkamp after the Caucus launched last month. “Secretary Ferguson plays a major role in the activities that have every day impacts in North Dakota’s defense communities,” said Heitkamp. “We had a good discussion about our military installations in Minot, Grand Forks, and Fargo, and what we can do to better support the defense communities.” Ferguson, is the Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment and Logistics. She is responsible for the formulation, review, and execution of plans, policies, programs and budgets for installations, energy, environment, safety and occupational health as well as weapon systems logistics support. In June, The Association of Defense Communities presented U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp with the 2013 Defense Community Award for her steadfast support of North Dakota’s military installations. The Defense Communities Caucus gives voice to the unique issues facing America’s defense communities, while creating and strengthening partnerships between the private sector, military installations and their communities. The Caucus works to: develop strategies to ensure service members feel part of their communities; highlight and further develop transition assistance programs for returning and transitioning service members; build economic development strategies; and stay at the forefront of base redevelopment issues. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f43e2f7a-f0ef-4adf-9f9f-8c64d5f4599b | Heitkamp Statement on Passing of First Lady Jean Guy | 2013-07-05 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp issued this statement following the passing of former North Dakota First Lady Jean Guy. My thoughts and prayers are with the Guy family during this difficult time. Bill would be the first one to say he would not have been able to accomplish what he did for North Dakota if it weren't for Jean. Through her entire life, she had a steadfast commitment to her family and improving the lives of North Dakotans. As First Lady of North Dakota, she inspired me and countless others throughout the state with her intellect, kindness, and dedication to public service. As I said recently when Governor Guy passed, we lost a giant in North Dakota. Today we lost another one, but we will all strive to continue her advocacy of policies that will improve the lives of North Dakotans. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=46cc0130-01d2-4111-b52c-a4f19549eb4f | Heitkamp Applauds Decision to Delay Health Reform Provision | 2013-07-03 | 2013 | 2013-07 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 Grand Forks, ND – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp released this statement today, following the Obama Administration’s decision to postpone a health reform provision that would require businesses to provide health insurance to their employees. The provision, a part of the Affordable Care Act, requires companies with more than 50 employees to provide health insurance. I have repeatedly said that there is good and bad in the health care law, and we need to improve it. One improvement needed is to make it as simple as possible for our businesses to comply. I applaud the Administration for delaying this requirement until there is a system in place that is workable for businesses. I will continue to reach out to North Dakota businesses and push the Administration to take their concerns and priorities into consideration. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0d0134e6-86f9-4764-9186-514cf8b91f02 | Delegation Announces $4.9 Million for Airport Infrastructure, Highway Safety in North Dakota | 2013-06-28 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | ContactL Todd Deutsch, (202) 224-2043 WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced today that two North Dakota airports have been awarded more than $3.2 million for airport construction and maintenance projects and the North Dakota Department of Transportation has been awarded nearly $1.7 million in grants to improve highway safety. “We’re working to ensure that communities across North Dakota have safe and reliable roads, highways and airports to meet our growing needs,” said the delegation in the joint statement. “These grants will help to improve and expand our airports and improve road safety. Safe and secure travel is important to maintaining and improving the high quality of life that North Dakotans deserve.” The following grants were awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration: Crosby Municipal Airport will receive $641,152 for runway lighting and guidance systems and to rehabilitate the apron pavement and runways. Hector International Airport will receive $2,581,587 to construct taxiways and to expand the apron to provide additional aircraft parking. The North Dakota Department of Transportation will receive nearly $1.7 million in grants through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to help improve highway safety. The grants support programs to reduce impaired driving, improve motorcycle awareness and other safety measures. The grants were awarded by the U.S Department of Transportation with funds appropriated by Congress. -###- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=14f45fbe-4826-4cce-9e64-ab742c0f8a37 | Heitkamp Statement on Senate Passage of Immigration Reform | 2013-06-27 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today released this statement following Senate passage of comprehensive immigration reform. Heitkamp voted in favor of the legislation, which passed with a bipartisan majority, 68-32. Today, the Senate took a major step forward in reforming our outdated, broken immigration system. The legislation is not perfect, but it makes smart reforms, increases border security, and will stem the future flow of illegal immigration. For years, Washington has kicked the can down the road, instead of taking steps to reform immigration. We can’t afford to do this any longer. I ran for the U.S. Senate because I was tired of Washington’s insistence on ignoring the major problems facing our country. Throughout this process, I worked with members on both sides of the aisle and we found solutions, instead of ways to score political points. Most importantly, I consulted extensively with North Dakotans. I listened to what my constituents wanted out of immigration reform. It was very helpful for me to consult with North Dakotans from all walks of life, including business, agriculture, research, higher education, and healthcare leaders to discuss our state’s needs. Their support for the bill was very encouraging. This legislation makes a serious investment in securing our borders. Through an increase in border agents and other measures, there are significant steps in place to reduce the number of people entering our country illegally. Ensuring that we are on a track to finally secure our borders was a top priority of mine. I am also incredibly proud that this bill permanently authorizes and enhances the Conrad 30 program. This allows international doctors to remain in the U.S. longer than their visas initially allowed under the condition that they practice in underserved areas such as rural communities. With such a demand in our state, it is common sense to make it easier for talented professionals to come here and practice. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9a7664eb-8e7f-4305-a417-6390c0068e40 | HEITKAMP STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT DECISIONS | 2013-06-26 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202-224-9921 Washington, DC- Today, Senator Heidi Heitkamp released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decisions regarding marriage. The Supreme Court today ruled that the federal government may no longer discriminate against couples who are legally married in their own state. As the tide continues to shift across the country, these decisions not only reflect the changing mood of the country, they also were based on sound legal reasoning. As attorney general for North Dakota, I took discrimination head-on and today’s decision by the Court is a triumph for equality. Discrimination is discrimination and our government has no business treating the relationships of same-sex couples any different than it treats the relationship I have with my husband. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5d1443f1-77db-49ab-9ddf-0162c282c953 | Hoeven, Heitkamp, Cramer: Keystone XL Pipeline in North Dakota, National Interest | 2013-06-25 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer today continued their call for the Administration to approve the Keystone XL pipeline project, saying the project is in North Dakota’s and the nation’s interest and would create jobs, make the nation more energy secure and help improve public safety in North Dakota. In a speech today, President Obama said he will not approve the Keystone XL pipeline unless the State Department again determines that it is in the nation’s interest and will not lead to significant increases in greenhouse gas emissions. The Keystone XL pipeline has been under review for close to five years, and every study conducted by the State Department has found that the pipeline project will have no significant impacts on greenhouse gas emissions or the environment. “The Keystone XL pipeline project—energy infrastructure that is in our state’s and nation’s best interest—has been under review for close to five years,” said Hoeven. “The fact remains that this oil will be developed. If we build the Keystone XL pipeline, oil will be transported safely to the U.S, where it will help our nation become more energy secure. If we don’t build the pipeline, the crude will be transported by rail to Canada’s west coast and shipped to China, creating a much greater environmental impact. The choice is clear. We need to approve the Keystone XL pipeline project.” Hoeven began working on the Keystone pipeline project as governor of North Dakota. Since coming to the Senate, Hoeven has worked to pass legislation to approve the pipeline project. In March, Hoeven got a bipartisan majority of the U.S. Senate to vote in support of the Keystone XL pipeline, with a filibuster-proof majority of 62 to 37. “As the time nears for a decision, the President has yet again tried to move the goalposts on approval of the Keystone XL pipeline,” said Heitkamp. “After one of the most exhaustive environmental review process in U.S. history, there have been… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=662b128d-0713-426c-bc52-b5edd0a592f5 | Heitkamp Reaction to President Remarks on Climate Change | 2013-06-25 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today released the below statement following the President’s speech on climate change. I applaud the President’s efforts to address climate change and its effects. Taking several proactive steps that will address current policy shortcomings and mitigate long-term impacts of climate change. These steps include increased energy efficiency initiatives, disaster mitigation plans and increased investment in renewables and other advanced energy sources. However, several of the initiatives introduced today by the President, while not new, amplify the Administration’s continuing war on coal and coal-fired power. While the President claims to believe in an all-of-the-above energy policy, he consistently fails to step-forward and truly commit to such a policy. Instead the Administration continues developing regulations that do nothing more than choke off good-paying American jobs, and threatening millions of Americans with the loss of a reliable and affordable energy source. Instead of taking this route, we need to find a path forward for the coal industry and coal-fired power by encouraging continued investments in new and existing technologies to further reduce emissions through clean coal technology projects including commercially scalable carbon capture and sequestration. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=acaed69e-edd8-4fe9-826f-f0771b5519a3 | Heitkamp Introduces Bill to Help Americans with Costly Private Student Loan Debt | 2013-06-25 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Last Year, Outstanding Student Loan Debt Reached More Than $1 Trillion And 81 Percent of Undergraduates with High Student Debt Had Private Loans WASHINGTON, D.C.— Following last week’s report showing student loan debt has reached more than $1 trillion, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and U.S. Sen. Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) announced a plan that would help Americans saddled with costly, private student loans refinance to more affordable options. Following a Senate Banking Committee hearing, Brown and Heitkamp introduced legislation that would help individuals reduce their student loan debt by refinancing at no cost to taxpayers. U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Patty Murray (D-WA) are also original cosponsors of the legislation. “Why should our students and graduates be the last to benefit from historically low interest rates? Helping graduates refinance their private student loan debt into more affordable terms frees up funds for them to buy houses, start businesses, or contribute to their communities. It makes sense for our students and graduates and it makes sense for our economy,” Brown said. “Too many Ohioans are still paying for college decades after they graduate – through private loans with high interest rates. My bill would allow borrowers to refinance their costly private loans into more affordable loans. These borrowers could see their interest rates cut in half, lowering their payments at no cost to taxpayers.” “I have heard from countless students who are trapped because of an overwhelming amount of private student loan debt. This does not only impact them, it is a drain on our entire economy. The bill I wrote will incentivize refinancing, allowing students to benefit from incredibly low interest rates,” Heitkamp said. “I am proud to join my colleagues in co-sponsoring this commonsense legislation that would help people across the country refinance their high-interest private student loans and reduce their payments,” Murray said. “At a time when s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=befd3433-9885-40a9-b0b6-25374cdf38b4 | Banking Committee Senators Introduce Legislation to Modernize and Reform America’s Broken Housing Finance System | 2013-06-25 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Bob Corker, R-Tenn., Mark Warner, D-Va., Mike Johanns, R-Neb., Jon Tester, D-Mont., Dean Heller, R-Nev., Heidi Heitkamp, D-N.D., Jerry Moran, R-Kan., and Kay Hagan, D-N.C., all members of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, today introduced legislation to strengthen America’s housing finance system by replacing government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with a privately capitalized system that preserves market liquidity and protects taxpayers from future economic downturns. “Five years after the financial crisis, it is past time for us to modernize our unstable system of housing finance,” said Corker. “The framework we’re presenting here will protect taxpayers while maintaining market liquidity, and is the best opportunity we’ll have to finally move beyond the failed GSE model of private gains and public losses.” “Housing finance is the last piece of unfinished business remaining after the 2008 economic meltdown,” Warner said. “We have designed thoughtful reforms that will protect taxpayers from future downturns while responsibly preserving the availability of the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for homebuyers. We believe the housing market is ready for reforms like this, and that the private sector has been waiting for new rules of the road.” “We owe it to American taxpayers to listen to the lessons of history and work to prevent massive bailouts at their expense,” Johanns said. “With nearly 90 percent of home loans backed by government guarantees, we need a better model that takes taxpayers off the hook for future bailouts if we ever have a repeat of the 2008 housing crisis. This bill fully pays back taxpayers for the last bailout, and ends the risk of another one in the future.” “We’ve come a long way since the economic crisis, but the housing market remains our greatest piece of unfinished business,” Tester said. “With the housing market beginning to show signs of strength, now is the time to cr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=ebfee693-4fdd-4d94-a7e1-add9b25fbe23 | Heitkamp to Take Her Fight Against Breast Cancer to the Softball Field | 2013-06-25 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, DC- U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp and other members of the Senate and House will take on the media in the Congressional Women’s Softball Game. The 5th annual game will be held on Wednesday, June 26th at 7:00 p.m. The game has raised over $250,000 in the past five years to support young women diagnosed with breast cancer. “I am really looking forward to joining my fellow colleagues on the field,” said Heitkamp, a breast cancer survivor. “Most importantly, this is a time to set political differences aside so we can raise awareness for breast cancer and support the Young Survival Coalition.” The Congressional Women’s Softball game brings together women from both sides of the aisle to raise public awareness around young women and breast cancer, as well as critical funds to help the Young Survival Coalition address the unique needs facing young women diagnosed with this disease. The game was founded in 2009 by Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (R-MO), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), a young breast cancer survivor herself. Now in its fifth year, the game continues to emphasize a bi-partisan commitment to women’s health and fighting breast cancer. The women Members of Congress will be captained by Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). The DC Press Corps (aka Bad News Babes) will be captained by Dana Bash, CNN; Carrie Budoff Brown, Politico; Brianna Keiler, CNN; Abby Livingston, CQ Roll Call and Amy Walter, Cook Political Report. To learn more about the Congressional Women’s Softball game, click here. The Young Survival Coalition is an outreach organization providing the tools and resources to breast cancer patients and survivors. All proceeds from the game will go to the Young Survival Coalition. Who: Women of Congress vs. Women of the Press Corps When: Wednesday, June 26th, 2013 7:00 p.m. Where: Wat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8bc46975-b225-4517-a0be-14c7ccd5e06c | During Meeting with Top USDA Official, Heitkamp Urges House to Not Give Up on Farm Bill | 2013-06-24 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Bismarck, ND – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today called on the U.S. House of Representatives to try again to pass a long-term Farm Bill, or consider the Senate-passed version. Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, was joined at a roundtable discussion with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Acting Deputy Secretary Michael Scuse and North Dakota producers. On the heels of the successful passage of the Farm Bill in the Senate by a strong bipartisan majority, the House failed to pass its own version of the Farm Bill 195-234. “Instead of coming together to agree on a bipartisan piece of legislation that gets rid of unnecessary programs, saves billions of dollars for the American taxpayer and preserves a farm safety net, the House failed rural America,” said Heitkamp. “They can still redeem themselves, though. If they can’t pass their own bill, I urge them to take up the bipartisan Senate Farm Bill. It cuts the deficit by $24 billion and makes smart reforms to American agriculture, an economic engine that supports over 16 million jobs.” Acting Deputy Secretary Scuse is the number two official at USDA responsible for overseeing all of the agencies and programs at the Department. Prior to his current role, Scuse served as Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service where he oversaw the administration of all domestic farm programs. Scuse is a farmer from Delaware who has been involved in agricultural policy a various roles for the previous 20 years. Today’s roundtable, which took place at Bismarck State College, was also attended by: Governor Jack Dalrymple; Jasper Schneider, Executive Director, USDA Rural Development; Larry Skogen, President, Bismarck State College; Tom Lilja, Executive Director, North Dakota Corn Growers; Deana Wiese, Executive Director, North Dakota Ethanol Council; Kristi Carlson, Counsel, North Dakota Farmers Union; Pam Musland, North Dakota Farmers Union; Dan Woglsand, Executive Director, North Dakota Grain Growe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2d68ea4b-0490-49ea-91eb-3227b1718860 | National Retail Foundation Names Heitkamp Hero of Main Street | 2013-06-21 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 Washington, D.C. – In celebration of National Small Business Week, the National Retail Federation (NRF) named U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp a “Hero of Main Street.” Heitkamp, a member of the Small Business Committee, recently led the charge to level the playing field for main street businesses by helping pass the Marketplace Fairness Act in the Senate. "Today we salute a dedicated group of public servants and advocates for their outstanding support of the retail industry,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “These ‘heroes’ have all demonstrated a unique understanding and commitment to policies that will ensure a growing and thriving Main Street. NRF is pleased to acknowledge these specific Members of Congress for their unmatched leadership on the Marketplace Fairness Act.” “It is an honor to be recognized as a ‘Hero of Main Street,’” said Heitkamp. “As a member of the Small Business Committee, I will continue to craft policies to ensure North Dakota’s main street businesses are able to thrive and compete on a level playing field. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economies and provide invaluable support to our local communities.” In May, Heitkamp helped pass the Marketplace Fairness Act in a bipartisan fashion. The bill would allow states to collect the taxes they are already owed from remote sales. While most consumers are unaware, they are already legally required to pay a use tax on internet and catalog purchases. Compliance is very low, but consumers are supposed to fill out their online purchases on a state tax form. Heitkamp has been working on the issue for more than 20 years. In 1991, when Heitkamp was North Dakota’s Tax Commissioner, the state of North Dakota attempted to make catalog retailers collect the sales tax the state and municipalities were already owed on sales. The debate went all the way to the Supreme Court, which found the U.S. Congress had the ultimate power to resolve the issue. Since then, the sharp increase in inter… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=09586c89-a8dd-4b3e-9df0-1f9f410e1c28 | Heitkamp Statement on House Failure to Pass Farm Bill | 2013-06-20 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 Washington, DC- U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, released the following statement today after the 2013 Farm Bill failed to pass the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 195-234. Last week, the Senate passed an overwhelmingly bipartisan bill by a vote of 66-27. “I’m deeply disappointed the House has once again failed to provide our agricultural producers with the certainty they need to run their businesses by passing a long term Farm Bill,” said Heitkamp. “Instead of supporting real reform that ends outdated farm policies, consolidates programs, provides billions of dollars in savings to the American tax payer, and ensures the continuation of a farm safety net – the House has bent to extreme views in its failure to pass this needed legislation. American agriculture provides over 16 million jobs to the American economy and is the key driver of wealth creation in rural communities. If our county is to continue to be a world leader in agricultural production, we need our leaders in Washington to step up and do their part.” -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8feef9cf-3a34-4d9a-aec9-a1a7c92f17cf | Missile state senators: Nuclear deterrent critical to nation’s defense | 2013-06-19 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, D.C – In response to President Obama’s announcement to further reduce America’s nuclear arsenal below the levels set by the New START Treaty, members of the bipartisan Senate Missile States Coalition reaffirmed their support for keeping America’s nuclear deterrent strong and capable, and maintaining current ICBM levels. The senators expressed concerns that the reductions would create unnecessary strategic risks and is a shortsighted policy that was decided without input from Congress. The president’s plan ignores the nuclear dangers of a nuclear North Korea and Iran and calls for cutting America’s nuclear triad by one third beyond the requirements under the New START Treaty. Any new large-scale nuclear reduction agreement would require congressional consent. “The president wants to appease Russia with this agreement, but there are other countries besides Russia we need to consider when it comes to our nuclear deterrent. We need to address directly address the true dangers of a nuclear North Korea and Iran and not arbitrarily cut our capabilities when those who wish to do us harm are arming themselves. Our ICBM force is an essential part of our national defense and I thank the men and women in Wyoming and across the country for their service. It’s their sacrifices that ensure that our ICBM force is maintained and always ready,” said Senator Mike Enzi. “Maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent keeps America safe and supports good-paying American jobs. There are still a lot of unanswered questions about what the President is proposing and we need answers. I won’t support anything that puts our national security in jeopardy," said Senator Max Baucus. “America’s nuclear deterrent helps keep Americans safe and our country free. The only thing that has changed since the New START Treaty is that the threat of hostile nuclear programs has become even greater. As countries that are not our friends grow closer to modernizing their nuclear weapons programs, it woul… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=ae75d113-0622-4aa9-9a52-ea21f5c83848 | Delegation calls for military academy applications | 2013-06-19 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, (202) 224-2043 WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced they are currently accepting applications from North Dakota students interested in serving their country by attending one of the nation’s military service academies. “We are honored to have the privilege to nominate many of North Dakota’s best and brightest students to represent our great state at one of our nation’s historic institutions of higher learning and military service,” the delegation said in a joint statement. “Attending one of our country’s prestigious service academies is a worthy calling that allows students to serve their country while pursuing a military career and earning a world-class education. We encourage interested students to contact our offices to begin the application process.” The North Dakota delegation encourages all interested North Dakota high school graduates or graduating seniors to apply through one of their offices to receive a nomination to one of the military service academies. Applicants must be at least 17 years old but not past their 23rd birthday on July 1, 2014, and must also be U.S. citizens, unmarried and have no dependents. They must also demonstrate excellence in academics and leadership. Application materials are available online through the senators’ and congressman’s official websites. All three of North Dakota’s congressional offices will accept applications for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York; the Air Force Academy near Colorado Springs, Colorado; the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; and the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. The application deadline is Friday, October 11. Military academy interviews with the delegation are scheduled for Tuesday, November 5 in Bismarck and Wednesday, November 6 in Fargo. The delegation will make its nominations to the military academies in late November. Applications may be sent to Senator John Hoeven’s office at 1802 32nd Avenue South, Suite B, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c32d063b-5aa2-442a-97ba-b7b447888ab2 | Heitkamp Reaction to President’s Announcement to Further Reduce Nuclear Weapons | 2013-06-19 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today responded to President Obama’s announcement to bring the number of nuclear weapons below the levels agreed to in the New START Treaty. Heitkamp, a member of the bipartisan Senate Missile States Coalition, released the following statement. “Our nation’s nuclear force remains a critical part of our arsenal to deter enemies from taking action against the United States. There continues to be threats throughout the world which require our nation to maintain its nuclear readiness and capability. In North Dakota, Minot Air Force Base stands at the ready with the strongest possible deterrent to those that wish the United States harm. It is imperative that we continue to modernize and defend our nuclear triad from reductions that may threaten our nuclear deterrent capabilities,” said Senator Heidi Heitkamp. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=fed7600c-67cc-472d-b337-a2a12ad91c11 | Heitkamp, Isakson Launch Defense Communities Caucus | 2013-06-19 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) today formed a coalition to support defense communities in North Dakota, Georgia and around the country. The newly formed Senate Defense Communities Caucus will work to support the unique needs of defense communities, which play a vital role in supporting the United States military. “In North Dakota our communities take immense pride in their military installations and their servicemembers. These communities work hand in glove with their bases to develop partnerships that benefit our states in countless ways. They provide crucial support and stability to our servicemembers, all while raising their families, educating their children and working to grow their local economies,” said Heitkamp, who recently received the 2013 Association of Defense Communities Award for her steadfast support of North Dakota’s military installations. “I cofounded this Caucus because North Dakota and our country’s defense communities have unique challenges that deserve our utmost attention.” “Georgia is home to several military installations with active community supporters who provide the support and stability that our men and women in uniform require. It is critically important that we understand the issues these communities face and play an active role in empowering and supporting them,” said Isakson. “I’m proud to join Sen. Heitkamp in forming the Defense Communities Caucus, and I invite my colleagues to join us in this cause.” The Senate Defense Communities Caucus will work to: Develop strategies to ensure service members feel part of their communities. What are the best programs around the country? How can we best share this information? Highlight and further develop transition assistance programs for returning and transitioning service members: How can both families and communities prepare for their loved ones return from deployment or as they transition from the military? Build economic development st… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=88871df7-10aa-4076-af26-17a0cbda4111 | Heitkamp Hears from North Dakota Business, Research, Higher Education and Healthcare Leaders on Immigration Reform | 2013-06-17 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Fargo, ND – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today heard North Dakota business, research, higher education and healthcare leaders discuss the needs of North Dakota as Congress debates reforms to our immigration system. This was the latest in a series of conversations Heitkamp and her staff have had with North Dakotans about immigration to ensure our state is well-represented in the debate. “The input I received today from North Dakotans was very helpful. I will take the information back to Washington and make sure our state’s voice is heard during this critical discussion,” said Heitkamp. “It is a positive sign the bill currently before the Senate was approved by the Judiciary Committee on a bipartisan vote. It could still undergo significant changes as it is considered in the full Senate, which could undermine the bipartisan efforts for reform. I will continue to evaluate the bill and any amendments to determine the potential impact on North Dakota and to ensure that the Northern Border retains adequate resources to protect our citizens and to facilitate the free-flow of trade between Canada and North Dakota.” Today’s discussion, which took place at Microsoft, was attended by a wide-range of North Dakotans, including Don Morton, Microsoft Fargo Site Leader; Dean Bresciani, North Dakota State University President; Andy Peterson, North Dakota Chamber of Commerce President and CEO; John Vastag, Sanford Director of Legislative Affairs; Jim Gartin, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation President; Dr. Tim Mahoney, Essentia Health Physician; Jim Sweeney, Fargo Jet Center President; Dr. Philip Boudjouk, North Dakota State University Vice President for Research; and Tom Shorma, WCCO Belting, Inc. President and CEO. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=837d9da6-9c9b-4fb0-9d06-ec2eb89c8cb7 | Heitkamp PTSD Resolution Unanimously Passes Senate | 2013-06-14 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp announced today that the Senate has unanimously passed her resolution to raise awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). June 2013 is now designated National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month. Heitkamp’s resolution calls on the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Defense to further educate servicemembers, veterans, the families of servicemembers and veterans, and the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. “I am very pleased that the Senate has adopted my resolution to raise awareness about PTSD. I am confident that designating June 2013 National PTSD Awareness Month will have an important impact,” said Heitkamp. “PTSD is one of the greatest challenges facing our brave men and women while they are serving and after they return home from duty. We need to do all we can to educate our servicemembers and the public about PTSD, so we can recognize the symptoms and take steps to help those who are suffering.” Senator Heitkamp’s PTSD resolution is co-sponsored by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), JonTester (D-MT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), Mark Begich (D-AK), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Al Franken (D-MN), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Dean Heller (R-NV), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Sherrod Brown (D-OH). Below is a full copy of Senator Heitkamp’s resolution "National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month" Whereas the brave men and women Armed Forces of the United States, who proudly serve the United States, risk their lives to protect the freedom of the United States, and deserve the investment of every possible resource to ensure their lasting physical, mental, and emotional well-being; Whereas more than 2,000,000 servicemembers have deployed overseas as part of overseas contingency operations sin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=88a43306-05ea-45f4-af40-e3d058d86b7e | Heitkamp Brings Educators and Students Together to Discuss Student Loans | 2013-06-14 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Grand Forks, ND – On the campus of the University of North Dakota today, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a member of the Banking Committee, brought together North Dakota educators, students and administrators to discuss student loans. Heitkamp, who attended college with the help of Pell grants and student loans, is committed to addressing current student loan rate issues, as well as finding long-term solutions to ensure education is affordable for North Dakota students. Unless Congress acts, on July 1 the interest rate for new subsidized Stafford loans is set to double from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent. “I know firsthand the importance of investing in our young people — I attended college with the help of federal Pell grants and student loans,” said Heitkamp. “It was reaffirmed today we need to take action in the short term to avert the interest rate increase, and we must work on a long-term solution to address student loan debt.” At today’s discussion, Heitkamp heard from administrators from two and four-year schools, undergraduate and graduate students, parents, as well as young professionals. Participants expressed serious concerns about the proposed rate hike. They also encouraged Heitkamp to continue her work finding long-term solutions to make higher education affordable. On June 6, Heitkamp voted in support of The Student Loan Affordability Act, which would extend and fully pay for an additional two years of the current 3.4 percent interest rate on subsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans. Unfortunately, the bill was defeated as opponents supported a different proposal, the Student Loan Protection Act, which also failed. That legislation would have locked students into rates above 8 percent by 2018. Heitkamp opposed the legislation because she does not support balancing our budget on the backs of college students. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=dfa1b3c1-01e8-4f30-96c8-a2af6859dfdf | Defense Community Advocates Honor Heitkamp For Commitment to North Dakota’s Military Installations | 2013-06-13 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 Washington, D.C. – The Association of Defense Communities (ADC) today presented U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp with the 2013 Defense Community Award for her steadfast support of North Dakota’s military installations. Heitkamp was one of three Senators to be honored at the Defense Communities National Summit in Washington, DC. In citing the reason for Senator Heitkamp’s selection for the award, the ADC wrote, “Senator Heitkamp has been instrumental in her advocacy to North Dakota’s defense community priorities, which include advocating for the next tanker mission to Grand Forks Air Force Base, ensuring that the top leaders at the Department of Defense understand clearly that maintaining and modernizing our nuclear triad are national security priorities, so important to Minot and our country. Senator Heitkamp also never misses an opportunity to discuss the proud history of the 119th Happy Hooligans at Fargo National Air Guard Base and our National Guard members with top Air Force and National Guard Leaders.” “The ones who really deserve the credit are North Dakota’s servicemembers and the communities that care about them. North Dakota’s defense communities face unique challenges and it is my honor to work every day to support them,” said Heitkamp. Since being sworn in to the Senate, Heitkamp has spent a substantial amount of time advocating for North Dakota’s two air bases and National Guard. She has met with top military officials to educate them on the unique benefits North Dakota’s defense communities provide our military. In addition to spending time with military leaders, Heitkamp also works closely with community leaders to support our installations. The ADC is an association serving defense communities across the country, promoting healthy relationships between state governments, communities and the military. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5fde41e2-34d8-418d-8a9b-218a7fc2c192 | Delegation Announces $11.65 Million HUD Affordable Housing Grants for North Dakota Native American Communities | 2013-06-12 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, (202) 224-2043 WASHINGTON – Senators John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp and Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD) has awarded almost $11.65 million to North Dakota Native American communities to support affordable housing projectsand activities. “Ensuring all North Dakotans have access to safe, affordable housing is a high priority for us,” said the delegation. “These grants will help to provide our tribal communities with the resources they need to develop much needed housing and build safer, stronger communities.” The funding comes through the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) program and will be awarded to: Fort Berthold Housing Authority, New Town $2,666,813 Spirit Lake Housing Authority, Fort Totten $1,944,629 Trenton Indian Housing Authority, Trenton $281,491 Turtle Mountain Housing Authority, Belcourt $6,755,782 IHBG funds are used by tribes and tribal housing authorities for housing development, housing services for eligible individuals and families, crime prevention and safety programs, and activities to solve affordable housing problems. -###- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=89d4628f-ded5-4163-92fc-cdb1ccaf8b6f | Heitkamp Presses Indian Health Service Acting Director to Continue Addressing Health Care Needs in Indian Country | 2013-06-12 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today pressed Indian Health Service (IHS) Acting Director Dr. Yvette Roubideaux to continue addressing health care needs on North Dakota reservations and across the United States. At a hearing to consider the nomination of Roubideaux to head IHS, Heitkamp questioned her about the reforms made to IHS' Aberdeen Area Office, Native American suicide and several other issues with the delivery of health care to those in Indian Country. “There is a health care crisis in Indian country,” said Heitkamp, a member of the Indian Affairs Committee. “ American Indians have long experienced lower health status compared with other Americans and it is past time that we take steps to address the issues. Dr. Roubideaux has one of the most challenging jobs, but I will continue to push her and the administration to improve health care for Native Americans.” Heitkamp is committed to addressing the stark health care needs in Indian Country. Compared to the rest of the U.S. population, Native Americans are 182 percent more likely to die from diabetes, 552 percent more likely to die from alcoholism, 138 percent more likely to die from unintentional injuries and 74 percent more likely to die from suicide. And Native Americans have a life expectancy nearly 4.1 years less than the rest of the U.S. population. Roubideaux, a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota, awaits confirmation from the Senate after her re-nomination by President Obama on May 7, 2013. She was previously confirmed and served as director throughout the President’s first term. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=794972d3-6bc5-44ad-b4d9-da9bf22efc6d | Heitkamp Recruits Bipartisan Coalition to Support PTSD Resolution | 2013-06-11 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202.224.9921 Heitkamp Recruits Bipartisan Coalition to Support PTSD Resolution WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp led an effort to raise awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder by introducing a resolution designating the month of June 2013 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month. Heitkamp recruited a bipartisan coalition of colleagues to support her effort. Heitkamp’s resolution calls on the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Defense to further educate service members, veterans, the families of service members and veterans, and the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of the greatest challenges facing our brave men and women while they are serving and after they return home from duty. One of the most important things we can do is to educate our servicemembers and the public about PTSD, so we can recognize the symptoms and take steps to help those who are suffering,” said Heitkamp. Senator Heitkamp’s PTSD resolution is co-sponsored by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Jon Tester (D-MT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), Mark Begich (D-AK), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Al Frankin (D-MN), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Dean Heller (R-NV), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Sherrod Brown (D-OH). Below is a full copy of Senator Heitkamp’s resolution ``National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month'' Whereas the brave men and women Armed Forces of the United States, who proudly serve the United States, risk their lives to protect the freedom of the United States, and deserve the investment of every possible resource to ensure their lasting physical, mental, and emotional well-being; Whereas more than 2,000,000 service members have deployed overseas as part of overseas contingency operations since the events… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=14fa9495-5281-4add-ab1c-b56cd112bc42 | Heitkamp Cheers Full Senate Passage of Farm Bill, Calls on House to Step Up | 2013-06-10 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today helped pass the overwhelmingly bipartisan 2013 Farm Bill through the full Senate. Heitkamp, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, was joined by 65 of her colleagues in supporting the measure, which reforms outdated farm programs to reduce the federal deficit by more than $24 billion. The House of Representatives has yet to consider a Farm Bill. “Today was a great day for North Dakota agriculture,” said Heitkamp, who worked tirelessly since taking office to shape a bill that will work for North Dakota. “This is a crucial step in my efforts to ensure that North Dakota producers have the certainty they need so they can continue to feed the world.” “Last year, the Senate similarly passed a bipartisan bill, only to have the House of Representatives refuse to take it up. North Dakota producers deserve a long-term bill and it is incumbent upon the House to step up for rural America. Inaction will simply delay needed reforms, prevent smart cuts from taking place and continue unneeded policies that do not reflect the needs of rural America,” continued Heitkamp. The bill will reduce the federal deficit by more than $24 billion through a number of reforms, including ending direct payments to producers. The 2013 Farm Bill also strengthens crop insurance by retaining the premium support that farmers rely upon to afford insurance. Additionally, the bill gives farmers the option to buy increased coverage to control risks. Heitkamp worked to defeat several proposals that would have been harmful to North Dakota, including an effort by special interests to dismantle the Sugar Program. Heitkamp-supported provisions included in the Farm Bill passed by the full Senate: Farm Level Safety Net Program to Protect Growers – Each year North Dakota growers face challenges from factors beyond their control like flood, drought, price collapse, and the introduction of new pests and pathogens. These risks are especially threat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=c9872c3a-11ce-4139-9cf2-e7bd9e662617 | Heitkamp Supporting Bipartisan Bill to Expand Federal Government Fuel Sources | 2013-06-10 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Todd Deutsch, 202-224-9921 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp is supporting a bipartisan proposal to expand the federal government’s fuel sources. Heitkamp is a cosponsor of the North American Alternative Fuels Act, which would repeal a law that prohibits federal agencies from purchasing certain fuels, including those produced from coal and oil shale. “In North Dakota we believe in an all-of-the-above energy policy as a means of achieving North American energy independence and energy security. To become energy independent, we need to take advantage of our diverse energy mix and not restrict the ability of certain parties, especially the federal government, to use a wide-range of fuels,” said Heitkamp. Heitkamp believes that a blanket prohibition on the purchase of certain types of fuels makes no sense from a national security standpoint or from a practical standpoint of making all resources available to federal government agencies. The North American Alternative Fuels Act would repeal section 526 of Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Section 526 prohibits federal agencies from purchasing certain fuels unless the contract specifies that the alternative fuel emits less greenhouse gas than fuel produced from conventional petroleum sources. Because of this, section 526 prohibits certain Federal government agencies from purchasing transportation fuel produced from coal, oil shale, and oil sands. The bill, introduced by Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and Joe Manchin (D-WV), is also co-sponsored by Senators John Hoeven (R-ND), Dan Coats (R-IN), Mike Enzi (R-WY), and James Inhofe (R-OK). -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=687543aa-6f5a-404b-8c00-0ff0e3fb1768 | Heitkamp Announces National Wolf Delisting Proposal | 2013-06-07 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Whitney Phillips, 202.224.2043 Heitkamp Announces National Wolf Delisting Proposal WASHINGTON, D.C.- U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service acquiesced to her concerns to remove the gray wolf from the list of threatened and endangered species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will open a 90-day comment period on the proposal to seek additional scientific, commercial and technical information from the public and other interested parties. Senator Heitkamp led a letter in March supporting the nationwide delisting of wolves. “The comment period is a step in the right direction towards removing the gray wolf from the Endangered Species list,” said Heitkamp. “The bottom line is wolves are no longer endangered, therefore they do not warrant federal protections. State wildlife officials have their hands tied anytime wolves are involved and by delisting wolves we will lift the federal burden of a bureaucratic system that doesn’t work for our states. Wolf management decisions should be made at the state, not the federal level.” Absent the delisting of the species, land managers and property owners are handcuffed in their ability to encourage healthy wildlife populations and care for livestock herds. The proposal comes after a comprehensive review confirmed its successful recovery following management actions undertaken by federal, state and local partners following the wolf’s listing under the Endangered Species Act over three decades ago. Under the proposed delisting, the Service would maintain protection and expand recovery efforts for the Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) in the Southwest, where it remains endangered. A copy of the letter Heitkamp sent in March is attached. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=37e1ba6b-e4f8-4a8a-bfd1-fa37481b34d8 | Heitkamp Presses USDA Risk Management to Provide Fairness to North Dakota Farmers Prevented from Planting | 2013-06-06 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Whitney Phillips, 202.224.2043 WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today pressed the U.S. Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency to honor its commitments to North Dakota farmers by ensuring crop insurance coverage for growers unable to plant due to wet conditions. “Missing a planting window can be as devastating to farm family’s bottom line as drought or midseason flooding. For insurance programs to function effectively as risk mitigation tools that serve the needs of all regions of the country, it is important that prevented planting coverage be made available whenever appropriate,” wrote Senator Heitkamp in a letter to the Risk Management Agency at USDA. Heitkamp raised concerns in the letter about the possibility that growers who qualify for prevented plant coverage may be denied by the Risk Management Agency. “Farmers may be prevented from planting as many as 2 million acres of farm land this year due to abnormally high precipitation and field moisture,” said Heitkamp. The Federal Crop Insurance Program offers growers prevented planting coverage in insurance policies, which can provide valuable risk protection when wet weather conditions prevent expected plantings. Below is thefull letter Senator Heitkamp sent to the USDA RMA Administrator Willis: June 4, 2013 Mr. Brandon Willis Administrator, Risk Management Agency U.S. Department of Agriculture South Agriculture Building, Room 6092-S 1400 Independence Ave, SW Washington, DC 20250 Mr. Willis, I write to stress the importance of prevented planting protection for the growers of the state of North Dakota, and to raise concerns about the application of the “1 in 4” rule at the Risk Management Agency in some counties in North Dakota that experienced regular precipitation in crop years 2008 and 2012. Missing a planting window can be as devastating to farm family’s bottom line as drought or midseason flooding. For insurance programs to function effectively as risk mitigation tools that… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=f04fdd5f-86ec-4fa6-93d8-10b527c2442d | Heitkamp Statement on Senate Proposal on Student Loan Interest Rates | 2013-06-06 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Whitney Phillips, 202-224-2043 Washington, DC- U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp released the following statement today after her vote against S. 1003, (Student Loan Protection Act) the Republican plan on student loan interest rates: “I’m disappointed the Senate has yet again chosen to kick the can down the road at the expense of our students. We need long-term systemic reform in order to address the serious issue of student loan debt,” said Heitkamp. “I know firsthand the importance of investing in our young people — I attended college with the help of federal Pell grants and student loans. Under the plan presented today, low-income students struggling to pay the substantial costs of post-secondary education would be saddled with even greater costs. This is an issue of fairness; we need to get our fiscal house in order, but it should not be done on the backs of students paying for their education.” According to the Department of Education, there are 20,041 subsidized Stafford loan borrowers in North Dakota. The Student Loan Protection Act (S. 1003) would move the student loan interest rate to a variable rate with no cap starting on July 1. The proposal would take $15.6 billion from students by charging them higher interest rates over ten years and use it for deficit reduction. Senator Heitkamp voted in favor of S. 953, the Student Loan Affordability Act. That bill, which was fully paid for, would freeze the interest rate on federally subsidized student loans at the current rate of 3.4 percent for the next two years. Preventing rates from doubling would keep an average of $900 in the pockets of North Dakota’s students. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9048b8d2-83c0-4072-95a9-1690e27a1a2f | Heitkamp to Receive Award for Work on Behalf of North Dakota Defense Communites | 2013-06-05 | 2013 | 2013-06 | Democrat | House | ND | Heidi Heitkamp | H001069 | www.heitkamp.senate.gov | legacy | Contact: Whitney Phillips (Heitkamp), 202.224.9897 Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp today announced the Association of Defense Communities (ADC) will honor her next week for her tireless support of North Dakota’s military installations. Heitkamp will receive the 2013 ADC Congressional Leadership Award on June 13, 2013. In citing the reason for Senator Heitkamp’s selection for the award, the ADC wrote, “Senator Heitkamp has been instrumental in her advocacy to North Dakota’s defense community priorities, which include bringing the next tanker mission to Grand Forks Air Force Base, ensuring that the top leaders at Department of Defense understand clearly that maintaining and modernizing our nuclear triad are national security priorities, so important to Minot and our country,” ADC wrote. “Senator Heitkamp also never misses an opportunity to discuss the proud history of the 119th Happy Hooligans at Fargo National Air Guard Base and our National Guard members with top Air Force and National Guard Leaders.” “I am just getting started, but I am honored that I will be recognized for my work on behalf of North Dakota servicemembers, their families, and their communities,” said Heitkamp. “Our defense communities face unique challenges and they deserve nothing less than our steadfast commitment to their success.” Since being sworn in to the Senate, Heitkamp has spent a substantial amount of time advocating for North Dakota’s two air bases and National Guard. She has met with top military officials to educate them on the unique benefits North Dakota’s defense communities provide our military. In addition to spending time with military leaders, Heitkamp also works closely with community leaders to support our installations. The ADC is an association serving defense communities across the country, promoting healthy relationships between state governments, communities and the military. -END- | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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