Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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178 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "TN" and year = 2016 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://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/conyers-slaughter-nadler-cohen-new-republican-rule-modern-day-gag-rule | CONYERS, SLAUGHTER, NADLER & COHEN: NEW REPUBLICAN RULE IS A MODERN DAY GAG RULE | 2016-12-30 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), House Committee on Rules Ranking Member Louise Slaughter (D-NY), House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution Ranking Member Steve Cohen (D-TN), and Subcommittee on Intellectual Property Ranking Member, and former chair of the Subcommittee on the Constitution Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) today released a joint statement on the proposed Republican Rules package, which, among other things, would delegate to the Sergeant-at-Arms the authority to impose fines of up to $2,500 per offense against any Member who uses an electronic device to photograph or record House floor proceedings. This is an apparent reaction to the Democratic sit-in on the House floor last June over the Republicans’ failure to bring up common sense gun safety legislation in the wake of the Orlando night club shootings. “House Republican Leadership, as one of its first priorities for the incoming Congress, seeks to impose a modern day and unconstitutional gag rule to restrict the First Amendment rights of Members to protest and engage in other forms of expression on the House floor as well as deny them due process. This unprecedented rule change, which appears to violate several fundamental constitutional protections, clearly is intended to undermine the rights of Members in the Minority to freely express their views on the House floor, which is a critical means by which Members communicate to the American public. It is particularly egregious that such a controversial and potentially unlawful change is being implemented in the complete absence of hearings or input from legal experts, let alone the Minority. “In effect, this proposed rule change would empower a protocol official to unilaterally impose a fine against a Member who uses an electronic device to photograph or record House floor proceedings without affording the Member any due process. Even the threat of this fine would have a chilling effect on the right of Members to express their views on t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/have-safe-and-happy-holiday-season | Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season! | 2016-12-21 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very safe and happy holiday season. This week, I commended the President for issuing a record number of commutations and pardons in one day but encouraged him to do more when it comes to marijuana-related convictions, and I announced I would be reintroducing a bipartisan bill to establish a minimum seat size on airplanes for the safety and health of passengers. I will also be appearing on MSNBC Friday morning to discuss Russia’s influence in our elections and President-elect Donald Trump’s transition. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Preparing to Host My 2017 District Issues Meeting Commending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug Offenders Fighting for the Safety of Airline Passengers Appearing on MSNBC on Friday Highlights from 2016 Helping Memphians Get Covered Weekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Preparing to Host My 2017 District Issues Meeting On Monday, January 9 from 9am-11am, I will be holding my annual District Issues Meeting at my Memphis Office to discuss issues affecting the Ninth District. Earlier this month, I sent out a survey asking you to tell me what issues you thought were most important for Congress to be working on next year. You provided me with very useful feedback to take back to Washington, highlighting the need for Congress to protect Medicare and Social Security, address gun violence, create good-paying jobs, expand access to affordable healthcare, ensure equal rights for all and much more. If you have not yet filled out the survey, you can do so below: Click to open in a separate window Commending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug Offenders On Monday, I commended President Obama for granting a record number of commutations and pardons in one day for those serving unjustly long sentences for largely non-violent drug convictions. However the President should c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-commends-president-obama-granting-clemency-231 | Congressman Cohen Commends President Obama for Granting Clemency to 231 Americans Serving Unjustly Long Sentences | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), who has been the most constant voice in Congress imploring President Obama to use his constitutional power to bring about justice through commutations and pardons, today commended President Obama’s decision to commute the prison sentences of 153 largely non-violent drug offenders and issuing 78 pardons. Today’s commutations and pardons represent the President’s continued commitment to using his pardon and commutation powers to right the wrongs of outdated and discriminatory federal policies, and to provide a second chance to deserving individuals. Today’s 231 commutations and pardons marks the most individual acts of clemency granted in a single day by any president in our nation’s history. President Obama has granted clemency to 1,176 prisoners and pardoned 148 people during his presidency. "I commend President Obama for granting a daily record number of commutations and pardons for those serving unjustly long sentences for largely non-violent drug convictions,” said Congressman Cohen. “But the President should continue working at Mach speed to issue as many appropriate commutations and pardons as possible before leaving office, especially for those in jail for non-violent marijuana convictions and for crack-cocaine disparity injustices. Very, very few of the commutations and pardons issued were for marijuana-related convictions. Yet of all the drugs that prisoners have been jailed for, marijuana is the drug that causes the least harm to society, has contributed to the least number of deaths, and has been legalized medically in 28 states as well as the District of Columbia and recreationally for more than 63 million Americans. Why there haven’t been more commutations and pardons for marijuana convictions befuddles me. Our nation’s outdated federal drug laws disproportionately affect minority populations and continue a policy grounded in false premises and political expediency dating back to President Nixon’s ‘Southern Strategy.’ As Martin Luther King, Jr. rightly … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cohen-and-kinzinger-reintroduce-airplane-seat-act-early-next-year | Reps. Cohen and Kinzinger to Reintroduce Airplane SEAT Act Early Next Year | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Ahead of a busy week for holiday air travel, and in response to shrinking airplane seats, Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation, and Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) today announced that they will reintroduce the Seat Egress in Air Travel (SEAT) Act early next year during the new Congress. The SEAT Act would establish a minimum seat size on commercial airlines as well as a minimum distance between rows of seats to protect the safety and health of airline passengers. “As millions of Americans take to the skies this week for the holiday season, it is a reminder of our obligation to ensure air travel is safe for passengers,” said Congressman Cohen. “The time to examine the safety implications of smaller airplane seats is now, not after some future tragedy. Planes need to be capable of rapid evacuation in case of emergency, yet appropriate testing has not been conducted by the FAA on all of today’s smaller seats. In addition, doctors have warned that deep vein thrombosis can afflict passengers who don’t move their legs during longer flights. The safety and health of passengers must come first. That is why Congressman Kinzinger and I will be reintroducing the SEAT Act early next year during the new Congress.” “This time of year is a busy time of travel for people in Illinois and across the country, and it is critical that safety is our top priority,” said Congressman Kinzinger. “I’m grateful to join my colleague, Rep. Cohen, in announcing our plans to introduce the Safe Egress in Air Travel (SEAT) Act in the 115th Congress. This legislation is important to ensure our aircraft’s seats are of a big enough size to guarantee effective passageways of evacuation for passenger safety. I am proud to support this important measure and look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill signed into law.” The next Congress will be working to renew authorization for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with the current … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-cms-extends-tenncare-ii-section-1115-through-2021 | Cohen: CMS Extends TennCare II Section 1115 Through 2021 | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) has extended the TennCare II section 1115 demonstration through June 30, 2021. TennCare is the state's managed-care Medicaid system and is authorized under a section 1115 waiver. Section 1115 waivers allow certain pieces of the Medicaid program to be waived in order to give states additional flexibility to design and improve their state-run Medicaid programs. In May, Congressman Cohen wrote a letter to Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell urging CMS to renew Tennessee’s 1115 Medicaid waiver before it expired on June 30, 2016. Additionally, Congressman Cohen urged the waiver to continue funding the uncompensated hospital care payments. These payments help hospitals cover the costs they face when they provide care for the uninsured and underinsured. You can read Congressman Cohen letter here. CMS temporarily extended the deadline a number of times over the last six months, before announcing the five-year extension this afternoon. “I am pleased that CMS has extended TennCare’s section 1115 demonstration for the next 5 years, including the continuation of the state’s uncompensated hospital care payments,” said Congressman Cohen. “This continued funding from CMS is critical to the success of hospitals in Memphis who rely on these payments to cover unreimbursed costs. I was proud to write a letter to Secretary Burwell in support of the extension of TennCare Section 1115. TennCare helps 1.5 million mostly low-income pregnant women, children and individuals who are elderly or have a disability in Tennessee.” Additionally, Congressman Cohen led the bipartisan efforts of the Tennessee delegation in 2015 to the U.S. House to get a provision added to the Medicare Access and Children’s Health Insurance Program (“CHIP”) Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2) before it became law to guarantee $530 million over the next 10 years in disproportionate share hospital (DSH) allotments… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/supporting-memphis-women-and-minority-owned-businesses | Supporting Memphis Women and Minority-Owned Businesses | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I attended the Greater Memphis Chamber’s press conference announcing the launch of the Ascend Memphis Business Development Pilot Program for minority and women-owned businesses, attended the ceremony designating Orange Mound as a Preserve America Community, praised President Obama for signing the 21st Century Cures Act into law, called for a hearing in the House Judiciary Committee on Russia's involvement in the 2016 Presidential election, announced that the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) extended a provision to help hospitals treat Medicaid patients in Tennessee, and announced a more than $11.5 million federal grant for Shelby County Head Start Programs. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Supporting Memphis Women and Minority-Owned Businesses Designating Orange Mound as a Preserve America CommunityBuilding a Healthier AmericaCalling for Hearings on Russia's Involvement in our ElectionsFighting for Tennessee Hospitals Securing Funding for Early Childhood Education Helping Memphians Get CoveredWeekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Supporting Memphis Women and Minority-Owned Businesses On Thursday, I attended Greater Memphis Chamber’s press conference announcing the launch of the Ascend Memphis Business Development Pilot Program to increase the success of local small, women and minority-owned businesses. This program will pair successful small businesses with women and minority-owned businesses to teach them best practices to be successful. Two years ago in my Memphis Office, I spoke with President and CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber Phil Trenary on the need to address the disparity of wealth in Memphis and the need for more minority-owned businesses in the city. If the African American community does not prosper, then Memphis does not prosper. I would like to thank Phil Trenary, Shea Flinn, Andre Gibson and the other members of the Chairman’s Circle … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-announces-more-115-million-shelby-county-head-start-projects | Cohen Announces More Than $11.5 Million for Shelby County Head Start Projects | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that the Shelby County Board of Education has been awarded an $11,530,676 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support Head Start projects. “Today’s funding for Shelby County’s Head Start projects is an investment in our children, our families and our future,” said Congressman Cohen. “Because of this important funding, children from low-income families throughout Memphis and Shelby County will be better prepared to learn when they enter school. Head Start is an important program that I am proud to support.” Head Start is a federal program that provides comprehensive services to enrolled children and their families, which include health, nutrition, social services and other services determined to be necessary by family needs assessments, in addition to education and cognitive development services. Shelby County Head Start provides these services to nearly 5,000 children in Memphis and Shelby County. The Head Start program was founded as part of Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty in 1965 as an eight-week demonstration project. Since its founding, Head Start has served over 30 million children and their families in urban and rural areas in every corner of the nation and has grown to include full day as well as year services and numerous program options. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-joins-senator-reid-calling-fbi-director-comey-resign | Cohen Joins Senator Reid in Calling on FBI Director Comey to Resign | 2016-12-10 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today joined Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) in calling on FBI Director James Comey to resign after reports that the CIA secretly concluded Russia was trying to help Donald Trump win the presidency. Congressman Cohen first called on FBI Director Comey to resign in October after he made public comments on the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s email server. “I applaud Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid for also calling on FBI Director James Comey to resign after new information came to light that Director Comey may have known the CIA had secretly concluded that the Russians were trying to help Donald Trump win the presidency by hacking the DNC, DCCC and Hillary Clinton Campaign Chairman John Podesta’s emails. This is unconscionable. Director Comey put an unnecessary, unfounded cloud over the presidential campaign during its final two weeks. Reliable sources have said he had information that the Russians were interfering with the election and didn’t give the American people notice. I am proud to join Senator Reid in calling on Director Comey to resign. I will also be calling on House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte to hold hearings on the Russian influence in our elections and the actions of FBI Director Comey.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/ensuring-safety-our-children | Ensuring the Safety of Our Children | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I introduced a bill to create federal grants for seat belts on school buses, hailed the Senate’s passage of the 21st Century Cures Act, participated in a forum on potential changes to the Electoral College, renewed my call for the Memphis VA Medical Center to hire a permanent director, passed a bill to ensure swift search and rescue response during disasters, praised the House for passing a bill to protect consumers from online ticket scalpers, commended the Army Corps of Engineers for their decision to seek an alternative route for the Dakota Access Pipeline, and attended the White House Christmas Party. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Ensuring the Safety of Our ChildrenTwo Minute Speech, Two New York Times Stories, Two Quotes, Too HonoredAbolishing the Electoral CollegeWorking to Hire a Permanent Director for the Memphis VA Medical CenterPassing the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System ActProtecting Consumers Online Ticket ScalpersFighting for a Cleaner EnvironmentAttending the White House Christmas Party Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant ProgramWeekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Ensuring the Safety of Our Children In the wake of the tragic crash in Chattanooga, I introduced a bill on Wednesday that would create grants to purchase new school buses with lap/shoulder seat belts or equip existing ones with such belts, require background checks for school bus drivers and other measures to ensure the safety of our children riding on school buses. Read more about my bill here. Two Minute Speech, Two New York Times Stories, Two Quotes, Too Honored On Wednesday, the U.S. Senate passed the 21st Century Cures Act, which included our EUREKA Act to help encourage innovative solutions for fighting awful diseases such as Alzheimer’s. The bill will now go to President Obama’s desk for his signature. I was honored to be quoted in the New York Times t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-ogr-members-call-for-investigation-into-buried-pentagon-study | Cooper, OGR Members Call for Investigation into Buried Pentagon Study | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) and other members of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform today called for an investigation related to an internal Pentagon study that identified $125 billion in potential savings, but never saw the light of day. The Washington Post this week described a “buried” study that – if implemented – would have made the Pentagon’s “enormous back-office bureaucracy more efficient”; the study’s proposals “would not have required layoffs of civil servants or reductions in military personnel.” Savings were set to be reinvested in combat power. “Congress needs to investigate why the Pentagon suppressed this report,” Rep. Cooper said. “It is outrageous that the Pentagon could be wasting so much money.” According to the Post, the $125 billion would be enough to “cover the operational costs for 50 Army brigades, or 3,000 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters for the Air Force, or 10 aircraft-carrier strike groups for the Navy.” The letter, sent to Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter, requests that Pentagon officials send documents and correspondence related to the study for further investigation. A copy of the letter can be viewed here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-hails-house-passage-national-urban-search-and-rescue-response | Cohen Hails House Passage of National Urban Search and Rescue Response Systems Act | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, hailed passage by the House of Representatives of the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System Act of 2016 (S.2971). The bill was previously approved by the Senate and will now head to the President’s desk. This bill would authorize the National Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) program and codify protections for USAR team members, such as workers’ compensation and liability protections. 28 USAR teams are strategically located across the United States and provide timely response when needed in the aftermath of a disaster. Congressman Cohen spoke in support of this bill on the House floor. You can watch his remarks here. “I am pleased both the House and Senate have now passed the National Urban Search and Rescue Response Systems Act,” said Congressman Cohen. “I first introduced a bill to codify the Urban Search and Rescue Response System in 2007. These specialized teams of police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other first responders provide search and rescue services and swift rapid rescue, among other activities, after disaster strikes. The dedication of the Tennessee Task Force One, based in Memphis, and USARs around the country are truly commendable as they drop everything in their busy daily lives to come to the prompt assistance of others when needed. I urge my colleagues to provide the necessary funding to support USARs and their heroic, life-saving activities.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-hails-senate-passage-eureka-act-part-21st-century-cures-act | Cohen Hails Senate Passage of EUREKA Act as Part of 21st Century Cures Act | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Today the Senate passed the 21st Century Cures Act, which included the Ensuring Useful Research Expenditures is Key for Alzheimer’s (EUREKA) Act, a bill introduced in the House by Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Congressman John Duncan (R-TN) and introduced in the Senate by Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) and others. The EUREKA section of the 21st Century Cures Act would instruct the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support prize competitions to accelerate the discovery and development of treatments to alleviate, prevent, and cure certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s, for which there is relatively little private investment as compared to public investment. President Obama is expected to sign the 21st Century Cures Act into law. “I am pleased that the Senate passed the 21st Century Cures Act, which included our EUREKA Act to help encourage innovative solutions for fighting awful diseases such as Alzheimer’s,” said Congressman Cohen. “I have been encouraged by the strong bipartisan support for the 21st Century Cures Act, which, in addition to our EUREKA Act, includes increased funding for the NIH, Vice President Joe Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative, increased benefits for mental health patients and grants to help combat the opioid epidemic. I look forward to the President signing this bill into law.” Congressman Cohen spoke in support of the EUREKA Act and the 21st Century Cures Act on the House floor last week. You can watch the video here. You can read Congressman Cohen’s statement on the passage of the 21st Century Cures Act in the House of Representatives here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-introduces-school-bus-seat-belt-bill | Cohen Introduces School Bus Seat Belt Bill | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today introduced the Bring Enhanced Liability in Transportation for Students (BELTS) Act to help protect children who ride on school buses. The bill would create federal grants to purchase new school buses with lap/shoulder seat belts or equip existing ones with such belts and creates federal grants to equip school buses with motion-activated detection systems. The bill would also direct the Secretary of Transportation to withhold 10% of a state’s apportionment of certain federal-aid highway funds if the state has not enacted a law that requires the employer to conduct background checks before hiring school bus drivers. Finally, the bill would direct the Secretary to withhold 10% of federal highway funding if the state has not enacted and is not enforcing a law that imposes specified first offense and second offense civil or criminal penalties for motorists found guilty of illegally passing a stopped school bus. “Last month’s horrific school bus crash that killed six children in Chattanooga, Tennessee was a wake-up call,” said Congressman Cohen. “When it comes to protecting our school children, safety must come first. To date, only six states require seat belts on school buses. When I was in the Tennessee State Senate, I sponsored a bill to require seat belts on school buses, yet it was opposed by the industry and never received a vote in committee. On average, there are 134 school-transportation-related fatalities per year. Seat belts, background checks for drivers and other measures could help reduce future disasters. I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation to protect our children riding on school buses.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-s-statement-memphis-va-medical-center-rating | Cohens Statement on the Memphis VA Medical Center Rating | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen today released the following statement on the announcement that the Memphis VA Medical Center received a 1-out-of-5-star performance rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: “When I first learned of the Memphis VA Medical Center’s poor rating in November, I wrote to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert McDonald and Under Secretary for Health Dr. David Shulkin expressing concerns about the hospital,” said Congressman Cohen. “Both the low rating and lack of a dedicated and permanent director are unacceptable and likely interrelated. I urged Dr. Shulkin to use recruitment rewards and incentives to get the very best director for the Memphis VA Medical Center. I personally spoke with then-Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki to get Dr. Jay Robinson transferred from Dublin, Georgia to Memphis in 2009 after I learned of his high regard from my colleague Congressman Jim Marshall of Georgia. Unfortunately, Dr. Robinson was recruited to be the CEO of Methodist South Hospital in Memphis, and we haven’t had sufficient leadership since. Quality care for our veterans and veteran hospitals begins with permanent and highly regarded leadership, and I will continue to work with the current and future Administrations to this end.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-cohen-participates-forum-electoral-college | Ranking Member Cohen Participates in Forum on Electoral College | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today participated in a forum hosted by members of the House Judiciary Committee with bipartisan experts and noted scholars to discuss proposed reforms to the current method of presidential selection, entitled “The Electoral College and the Future of American Democracy.” A video of Congressman Cohen’s remarks can be found here. A photo of the Congressman at the forum can be found here. “As Ranking Member of the subcommittee with jurisdiction over constitutional amendments, I was pleased to hear from experts and scholars on potential reforms to the electoral college,” said Congressman Cohen. “Last week, I introduced a constitutional amendment to abolish the electoral college and provide for the direct election of the President and Vice President. The electoral college is an anachronistic provision. When the Founders established the electoral college it was in an era of limited nationwide communication. It was premised on a theory that citizens would have a better chance of knowing about electors from their home states than about presidential candidates from out-of-state. But this is no longer true, and the notion that citizens should be prevented from directly electing the President is antithetical to our understanding of democracy.” Last week, Congressman Cohen introduced an amendment to the United States Constitution (H.J.Res. 104) that would eliminate the Electoral College and provide for the direct election of the President and Vice President of the United States. You can find more comments from Congressman Cohen on his amendment here. The text of the amendment can be found here. Panelists at the forum included: Professor Jamie Raskin, American University Law School (and U.S. Representative-Elect) Professor Akhil Reed Amar, Yale Law School Professor Jack N. Rakove, Stanford Law School Professor Alexander Keyssar, Harvard University State Representative Bob Thorpe (R-AZ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-praises-decision-seek-alternative-route-dakota-access-pipeline | Cohen Praises Decision to Seek an Alternative Route for Dakota Access Pipeline | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the Army Corps of Engineers’ decision to not issue a permit for the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline under Lake Oahe in North Dakota. The Army Corps of Engineers announced that it plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for alternative routes. The Standing Rock Sioux tribe and its supporters have raised concerns that routing the pipeline under the lake could contaminate the water supply for the Native American reservation. “I am pleased the Army Corps of Engineers decided against issuing a permit for the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline through the Standing Rock Sioux reservation,” said Congressman Cohen. “I was proud to join my colleagues in urging the President to cease construction of the pipeline and protect the civil rights and civil liberties of the water protectors, veterans and supporters who have spent months protesting the pipeline. I will continue to monitor the situation as the Army Corps of Engineers releases their Environmental Impact Statements on alternate routes, and I urge the incoming administration to uphold the decision to seek an alternative route for the pipeline.” Congressman Cohen cosigned a letter to President Obama in September urging the Army Corps of Engineers to block the construction of the pipeline. You can read that letter here. Congressman Cohen also cosigned a letter to President Obama in November urging the President to send Department of Justice observers to protect the civil rights and liberties of the protesters and withdraw the National Guard to reduce tensions in the area. You can read that letter here. Congressman Cohen cosigned a letter to Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter earlier this month to request the return of military equipment obtained by local and state law enforcement agencies in North Dakota through the Department of Defense after evidence of the excessive use of force by law enforcement against the Water Protectors. You can read that … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/building-healthier-america | Building a Healthier America | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, the House of Representatives passed a bill I sponsored, the EUREKA Act, as part of the 21st Century Cures Act, I introduced an amendment to the Constitution to abolish the Electoral College, urged the President to issue more commutations for marijuana-related convictions, represented Tennessee at the Steve Cropper donation ceremony at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, joined Judiciary Committee Democrats in pressing for hearings on conflicts-of-interest and ethics provisions that might apply to the President, and spoke in support of a bill to name a Nashville federal courthouse after my friend Fred Thompson. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Building a Healthier AmericaAbolishing the Electoral CollegeUrging the President to Issue More CommutationsRepresenting Tennessee at the Steve Cropper Ceremony at the Smithsonian Pressing for Hearings on Presidential Conflicts-of-InterestThinking of Those in GatlinburgRemembering Senator Fred ThompsonBringing Jobs to MemphisHonoring World AIDS Day Helping Memphians Get Covered Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant ProgramWeekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Building a Healthier America On Wednesday, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the 21st Century Cures Act to modernize our healthcare system. Included in the bill was a bill I sponsored in the House, the EUREKA Act, which would create prize competitions to accelerate the discovery and development of treatments for certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s, for which there is relatively little private investment as compared to that which is invested publicly. Also included in the 21st Century Cures Act was Vice President Joe Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative, as well as increased benefits for mental health patients, grants to help combat the opioid epidemic and increased funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Read more about t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-announces-presidential-inauguration-ticket-distribution-plans-0 | Cooper Announces Presidential Inauguration Ticket Distribution Plans | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | UPDATE: The sign-up period has ended. To be added to a wait list, click here. If there are remaining tickets available, you will be notified by January 6.WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) today announced plans to distribute tickets to the 2017 presidential inauguration to interested residents of Tennessee’s 5th Congressional District. Inauguration Day is Jan. 20. All tickets are “standing” only. Guests will be standing outdoors for many hours – possibly in the rain or snow – on what is typically a cold January morning. Tickets will be distributed over the next few weeks, following an electronic lottery process. All requests must be submitted online at cooper.house.gov/inaugurationtickets, and no requests will be accepted over the phone. Requests will be accepted for residents of Cheatham, Davidson and Dickson counties. There is a limit of two (2) tickets per household. Tickets are not transferable. Cooper’s office outlined the following steps that interested residents should follow: Submit your request online at cooper.house.gov/inaugurationtickets anytime between Monday, Dec. 5 at 9:00 a.m. CST and Friday, Dec. 9 at 5:00 p.m. CST. (A dedicated form will be available on Cooper’s website starting Monday morning.) On Monday, Dec. 12, Cooper’s office will hold a lottery drawing, and winners will be notified via email. Only those who win tickets will receive an email. The deadline to confirm acceptance – again, via email response to Cooper’s office – is Friday, Dec. 16 at 5:00 p.m. CST. No phone confirmations will be accepted. For any tickets that are not electronically claimed by the Dec. 16 deadline, a second lottery drawing will be held on Monday, Dec. 19. New winners will be informed later that day. They will need to confirm by email within 24 hours. Tickets must be picked up in person with photo ID at 1536 Longworth House Office Building in Washington, DC, on Thursday, Jan. 19 from 1:00 p.m. EST until 6:00 p.m. EST. Travelers should consider this timeframe. Tickets not picked up by 6:00 EST… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-cohen-introduces-amendment-us-constitution-eliminate | Ranking Member Cohen Introduces Amendment to the U.S. Constitution to Eliminate the Electoral College | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today introduced an amendment to the United States Constitution that would eliminate the Electoral College and provide for the direct election of the President and Vice President of the United States. “For the second time in recent memory, and for the fifth time in our history, we have a President-elect, who lost the popular vote,” said Congressman Cohen. “The Electoral College is an antiquated system that was established to prevent citizens from directly electing our nation’s President, yet that notion is antithetical to our understanding of democracy. In our country, ‘We the People’ are supposed to determine who represents us in elective office.” Congressman Cohen continued, “When the Founders established the electoral college, it was in an era of limited nationwide communication. It was premised on a theory that citizens would have a better chance of knowing about electors from their home states than about presidential candidates from out-of-state. The development of mass media and the internet, however, has made information about presidential candidates easily accessible to U.S. citizens across the country and around the world. Today, citizens have a far better chance of knowing about out-of-state presidential candidates than knowing about presidential electors from their home states. Most people don’t even know who their electors are. Congressman Cohen concluded, “Since our nation first adopted our Constitution, we have amended it repeatedly to expand the opportunity for citizens to directly elect our leaders. We have Constitutional amendments that guarantee the right of all citizens to vote regardless of race, gender and age for citizens who are 18 years of age and older, as well as an amendment to empower citizens to directly elect U.S. Senators. We need to also empower citizens to directly elect the President and the Vice President of the United States. It is tim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-and-duncan-sponsored-eureka-act-passes-house-part-21st-century | Cohen and Duncan-Sponsored EUREKA Act Passes House as Part of 21st Century Cures Act | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Today the House of Representatives passed the 21st Century Cures Act by a vote of 392 to 26, which included the Ensuring Useful Research Expenditures is Key for Alzheimer’s (EUREKA) Act (H.R. 5073), a bill introduced in the House by Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Congressman John Duncan (R-TN) and introduced in the Senate by Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) and others. The EUREKA section of the 21st Century Cures Act would instruct the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support prize competitions to accelerate the discovery and development of treatments to alleviate, prevent, and cure certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s, for which there is relatively little private investment as compared to that which is invested publicly. The 21st Century Cures Act awaits action in the U.S. Senate. The legislation has the support of President Obama. Congressman Cohen spoke in support of the EUREKA Act and the 21st Century Cures Act on the House floor. You can watch the video here. “I am pleased that the House included our EUREKA Act in the 21st Century Cures bill,” said Congressman Cohen. “The EUREKA Act builds upon efforts to seek innovative solutions from the public and bring the best ideas and talent together to fight dreadful, awful, awful diseases such as Alzheimer’s. For many of these diseases there is no effective treatment, no means of prevention, and no method for slowing progression. I was also pleased to see that Vice President Joe Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative was included in the final bill, as well as increased benefits for mental health patients and grants to help combat the opioid epidemic. I hope that we can build on the success of the 21st Century Cures Act by increasing funding for the NIH and continuing to encourage both private and public research to effectively fight Alzheimer’s and other tragic diseases that plague too many people across our country and around the world.” “I am eager to see what breakthrough treatments and drugs will come from the Eureka Competiti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-praises-cargill-inc-and-calysta-inc-selecting-cargill-s-memphis | Cohen Praises Cargill, Inc. and Calysta, Inc. for Selecting Cargills Memphis Site to Produce Calysta FeedKind Protein | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today praised Cargill, Incorporated and Calysta, Inc. for selecting Cargill’s 69-acre property on President’s Island in Memphis to house the world’s largest fermentation facility to produce Calysta’s FeedKind® protein, a family of sustainable, traceable nutritional ingredients for fish, livestock, and pets. The new facility is expected to come online in late 2018 and bring 160 new permanent jobs to Memphis. “I am pleased Cargill and Calysta have selected Memphis to house their new fermentation facility,” said Congressman Cohen. “I was happy to have helped bring this facility to Memphis. I am always willing to lend a hand to create more and better jobs in Memphis and the 9th District.” Click here to read more about Cargill, Calysta, and the new facility in Memphis. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-urges-president-obama-expedite-clemency-review-process | Cohen Urges President Obama to Expedite Clemency Review Process | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, sent a letter to President Obama urging him to do everything in his power to expedite the clemency review process so he can commute as many unjust sentences as possible before President-elect Donald Trump, who is unlikely to utilize this power, takes office. Dozens of criminal justice reform advocates and groups also sent a letter to President Obama urging him to expedite the clemency review process before he leaves office. You can read Congressman Cohen’s letter here. You can read the criminal justice reform advocates’ letter here. “I would urge you to summon the maximum manpower at your disposal to vet commutations and pardons so that as many sentencing wrongs as possible may be corrected as thousands of incarcerated Americans who are serving unjust sentences may receive justice,” wrote Congressman Cohen in his letter to President Obama. Congressman Cohen also recently urged President Obama to focus his review of commutation requests on those sentences specifically related to non-violent marijuana convictions. Read here. “President Obama should be commuting the prison sentences of those serving time for non-violent marijuana-related convictions,” said Congressman Cohen. “Medical marijuana is now legal in 28 states as well as the District of Columbia, and more than 63 million Americans live in states that have now approved recreational marijuana. The President should increase clemency review staff and work overtime to free as many of these individuals as possible before he leaves office. Every day that someone continues to serve an unjust sentence is a day justice is denied. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. so rightly noted, ‘Justice too long delayed is justice denied.’ ” Congressman Cohen also recently sent a letter to President Obama urging him to take action on rescheduling marijuana during his remaining time in office. You can read his letter here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-ogr-dems-request-a-review-of-trump-s-conflicts-of-interest | Cooper, OGR Dems Request a Review of Trumps Conflicts of Interest | 2016-11-28 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) and the Democratic Members of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform sent a letter to Chairman Jason Chaffetz requesting an immediate review of President-elect Donald Trump’s financial arrangements.In August, OGR Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz pledged to hold the next President-elect accountable, no matter who is in the White House saying his “job is to hold them accountable and provide that oversight.”"No one is above the law,” Cooper said. “The President-elect should fully disclose his holdings and dispose of any potential conflicts of interest. And Chairman Chaffetz should follow through on his promise to provide oversight and accountability.” Click for the full text of the letter. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-welcomes-president-obama-s-grant-commutations-79 | Congressman Cohen Welcomes President Obamas Grant of Commutations to 79 Inmates Serving Unjustly Long Sentences | 2016-11-22 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), who has consistently urged President Obama to use his constitutional power to bring about justice through commutations and pardons, today welcomed President Obama’s decision to commute the sentences of 79 federal inmates for mostly non-violent drug related convictions, but urged the President to do more. "While I welcome President Obama’s decision to commute the sentences of 79 drug offenders, I urge him to do more – much more – with his pardon power before his term expires, especially with regard to non-violent marijuana convictions. Medical marijuana is now legal in 28 states as well as the District of Columbia, and more than 63 million Americans live in states that have now approved recreational marijuana. The President should, of course, work with all deliberate speed to address the unjustly long sentences of those who were unfairly punished under the since repudiated crack vs. powder cocaine sentencing disparities. But he should also make sure to review non-violent marijuana sentences.”Congressman Cohen has repeatedly called on the President to make broader use of his pardon and commutation powers to address injustices, including a February 2016 column in the Commercial Appeal calling for increased staffing at the White House Counsel’s Office to review clemency petitions, a May 2015 column in the Blue Nation Review on the need to bring fairness back to the criminal justice system, a November 2014 column that appeared in The Hill, repeatedly urging then-Attorney General Holder to address the issue, in a letter sent to the President in June 2013, in an August 2013 speech on Capitol Hill and in an August 2013 column that appeared in The Nation. The Fair Sentencing Act, which was passed by Congress with Congressman Cohen’s co-sponsorship and signed into law by the President in 2010, marked a turning point in our nation’s approach to drug policy and was a crucial step toward eliminating the dramatic and unfair disparity between crack and powder cocaine mandatory… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-judiciary-committee-democrats-oppose-sessions-pick | HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE DEMOCRATS OPPOSE SESSIONS PICK | 2016-11-18 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – This morning, President-elect Donald Trump announced that U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) would be his choice for Attorney General. We need an Attorney General who represents the American people’s best interests by fighting to strengthen voting rights, prevent violence against women, and work to reform our broken immigration system, among other priorities. Senator Sessions was denied a federal judgeship in 1986 following a history of racially-charged comments and disturbing attitudes towards minority groups; and his record since only furthers cause for concern. The Democratic Members of the House Committee on the Judiciary issued the following joint statement in response: “The Attorney General is the chief law enforcement officer of the United States, charged with the administration of the criminal justice system and the enforcement of our civil rights. We have grave concerns with Senator Sessions’ potential nomination for this post and urge President-elect Trump to reconsider. “In 1986 testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, witnesses said that Mr. Sessions had referred to the NAACP, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and other civil rights groups as ‘un-American’ and ‘Communist-inspired.’ One prosecutor in the Alabama U.S. Attorney’s Office testified that Mr. Sessions referred to him as ‘boy’ and counseled him to ‘be careful what you say to white folks.’ Senators of both parties expressed concern about his failed attempt to prosecute three civil rights activists on unfounded federal voting fraud charges. His appointment to the federal bench was opposed by the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, the NAACP, the Urban League, the American Jewish Committee, and the National Council of Churches. “There is serious evidence that Sessions' outlook has not improved. “The Senator’s view on women is abominable. He opposed the reauthorization of the bipartisan Violence Against Women Act. Over the course of the campaign, when tapes surfaced of President-elect Trump bragging a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/returning-washington-0 | Returning to Washington | 2016-11-18 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I returned to Washington after another historically long recess, announced that First Lady Michelle Obama designated Orange Mound as a Preserve America Community, co-signed a letter to President-Elect Trump urging him to rescind his appointment of Steve Bannon to a top White House position, recommended several Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients to President Obama and urged him to issue more commutations and pardons, and honored Memphis veterans at my 8th annual Veterans Day Luncheon. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Returning to WashingtonDesignating Orange Mound as a Preserve America CommunityHonoring Memphis Area VeteransKeeping Hate Out of the White HouseRecommending Individuals to President Obama for Potential Presidential Medals of Freedom and Urging Him to Issue More Commutations Helping Memphians Get CoveredFood Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant ProgramWeekly Health Tip2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Returning to Washington This week, Congress returned to Washington after yet another historically long recess. The 114th Congress has yet to act on a variety of issues important to the American people. With a new Administration and a new Congress set to begin in January, I hope Democrats and Republicans can find common ground to work together. Rest assured I will continue to fight for the people of the 9th District as long as I am your representative in Congress. Designating Orange Mound as a Preserve America Community On Wednesday, I announced that First Lady Michelle Obama designated Orange Mound as a Preserve America Community. I was proud to write a letter of support to the Office of Preservation Initiatives for Orange Mound’s application. Read more about this designation here. Honoring Memphis Area Veterans Last Friday, I held my 8th annual Veterans Day Luncheon to honor the sacrifice and courage of local veterans who fought to safeguard the many freedoms… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-first-lady-designates-orange-mound-preserve-america-community | Cohen: First Lady Designates Orange Mound as a Preserve America Community | 2016-11-16 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that First Lady Michelle Obama designated Orange Mound, the nation’s first subdivision designed specifically for African Americans, as a Preserve America Community. The Preserve America Community program recognizes a select group of communities that use their heritage resources in sustainable ways and share the myriad benefits of historic preservation with residents and visitors. “I am pleased First Lady Michelle Obama designated Orange Mound as a Preserve America Community,” said Congressman Cohen. “I was proud to write a letter of support to the Office of Preservation Initiatives for Orange Mound’s application. The Orange Mound community will benefit greatly from this designation as its leaders and residents work to protect and celebrate their heritage while building a future that will keep the community strong and vibrant for generations to come.” Congressman Cohen’s letter of support for Orange Mound’s application can be found here. The Orange Mound neighborhood in Memphis, Tennessee, derives its name from the Osage Orange shrubs found on the grounds of the Deadrick Plantation, on which the neighborhood was originally platted. Orange Mound was founded in 1890, when developer Elzey Eugene Meacham purchased the land from the Deadrick family and sold lots in it to African American families, despite opposition. The population of the community remained primarily African American throughout the 20th century, as it gained a reputation as a refuge for blacks moving to Memphis from rural areas in the South. Orange Mound fell into decline in the 1980s and 1990s, but in the new century the neighborhood has experienced a revival, driven in part by older residents using its rich heritage to encourage the next generation to take a more active role in improving and maintaining the community. Orange Mound’s 125th anniversary celebration in 2015, for example, was a tremendous success, thanks in part to the partnership between local government, nonprofits, comm… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-calls-on-trump-to-withdraw-bannon-appointment-0 | Cooper Calls on Trump to Withdraw Bannon Appointment | 2016-11-15 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) issued a statement condemning President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Steve Bannon as White House Chief Strategist. “It’s a terrible mistake for Trump to choose a hate-monger and fear-monger like Steve Bannon as his chief strategist,” Rep. Cooper said Monday. “This makes Nixon’s Southern Strategy look like child’s play.” Cooper also signed a letter spearheaded by Rep. David Cicilline (RI-01). The letter asks Trump to immediately withdraw Bannon’s appointment, and garnered 169 signatures. The full text of Cicilline’s letter to President-elect Trump is below. Dear President-elect Trump: Immediately following your victory, many Americans were optimistic and hopeful that you would take the steps necessary to unify our country following the divisive and contentious election. In your election night speech you said, “Now it’s time for America to bind the wounds of division. It is time for us to come together as one united people.” Unfortunately, your appointment of Stephen Bannon, whose ties to the White Nationalist movement have been well-documented, directly undermines your ability to unite the country. As elected representatives of millions of Americans from diverse backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, we strongly urge you to reconsider your decision to appoint Mr. Bannon to White House Chief Strategist. Since the election there have been a number of incidents across the country in which minorities, including Muslim Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Jewish Americans, have been the targets of violence, harassment and intimidation. Mr. Bannon’s appointment sends the wrong message to people who have engaged in those types of activities, indicating that they will not only be tolerated, but endorsed by your Administration. Millions of Americans have expressed fear and concern about how they will be treated by the Trump Administration and your appointment of Mr. Bannon only exacerbates and validates their concerns. As the Executive Chairman of Brei… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-asks-doj-look-reported-computer-glitches-shelby-county-jail-and | Cohen Asks DOJ to Look into Reported Computer Glitches at Shelby County Jail and Courts | 2016-11-15 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch requesting that the U.S. Department of Justice look into reports of computer glitches at the Shelby County Jail and courts in Tennessee that have caused individuals who have posted bail to remain stuck in jail. A copy of Congressman Cohen’s letter can be found here. “If true, these reports are deeply concerning,” said Congressman Cohen in his letter. “No one should spend one additional minute, let alone days, in jail when, under law, they are supposed to be free. As the Memphis Commercial Appeal so aptly put it, justice delayed is justice denied. I respectfully request that the Department of Justice look into this problem to ensure that civil rights are protected.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-commemorates-veterans-da | Congressman Cohen Commemorates Veterans Day | 2016-11-11 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) released the following statement to commemorate Veterans Day: “Every November, we set aside a special day to honor the brave men and women who have served our country in uniform. On Veterans Day, we gather to remember the sacrifice and courage of the servicemen and servicewomen who have fought to safeguard the many freedoms that Americans hold dear. As we honor our nation’s heroes, we must also redouble our efforts to ensure that we keep our promises to them. I have been working with the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure Memphis hires the best director possible for the Memphis VA Medical Center. We should do all we can to help Veterans receive the timely, high-quality health care they deserve, as well as find good-paying jobs and provide them with educational support and affordable housing. Keeping our promise to veterans is the best way to thank them and honor their sacrifices. I was pleased President-elect Donald Trump said he would help veterans, and I look forward to working with him on this issue, particularly with VA hospitals.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/honoring-our-nations-veterans | Honoring Our Nation's Veterans | 2016-11-10 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, Tomorrow, I will be honoring our nation’s veterans on Veterans Day with my 8th annual Veterans Day luncheon. Also this week, I helped Memphis small businesses learn about federal government contracts and thanked my constituents for allowing me the opportunity to serve them in Congress. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans Helping Small Businesses Learn About Federal Government Contracts Thank You for Allowing Me the Opportunity to Serve You in Congress Helping Memphians Get Covered Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant Program Weekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans Tomorrow is Veterans Day when we gather to remember the sacrifice and courage of the servicemen and servicewomen who have fought to safeguard the many freedoms that Americans hold dear. From 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at BRIDGES, I will be hosting my 8th annual Veterans Day BBQ Luncheon to honor our veterans in Memphis. I have also been working with the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure Memphis hires the best director possible for the Memphis VA Medical Center. We should do all we can to help Veterans receive the timely, high-quality health care they deserve. Helping Small Businesses Learn About Federal Government Contracts On Monday, I hosted my 2016 Federal Procurement Fair for Small Businesses. During this time, small businesses in Memphis learned about doing business with the federal government as well as networked with other small businesses. Thank You for Allowing Me the Opportunity to Serve You in CongressIt is an honor to serve the 9th District and its citizens in Congress. I look forward to continue fighting for better and more affordable healthcare, voting rights, criminal justice and drug policy reform, college debt relief and other issues important to Memphis. Thank you for allowing me the opportu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-statement-on-presidential-election | Cooper Statement on Presidential Election | 2016-11-09 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | NASHVILLE – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) issued the following statement on the presidential election. “It’s an honor to continue serving Middle Tennesseans in Congress. There has never been a more important time for civility,” Rep. Cooper said. “I hope the president-elect will pledge to represent all people – including those who legitimately and genuinely feel threatened by him – not just those who voted for him.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-praises-doj-sending-election-monitors-shelby-county | Cohen Praises DOJ for Sending Election Monitors to Shelby County | 2016-11-07 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today praised the decision by the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division to deploy personnel to Shelby County, Tennessee to monitor the November 8, 2016 general election. “I am pleased the Department of Justice will be monitoring the election in Shelby County tomorrow,” said Congressman Cohen. “The right to vote is absolutely central to our democracy. No American should ever be denied the ability to exercise that right based on unwarranted procedural barriers to voting or because of intimidation, discrimination or for any other inappropriate reason. I would, however, encourage the Department of Justice to expand its use of election observers and use all existing authority to protect voting rights for all Americans to the maximum extent permitted by law.” On October 25, Congressman Cohen sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch expressing concern about the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) announcement that, as a result of the Supreme Court’s decision in the Shelby County v. Holder case, it would be severely limited in the number of election observers that it can deploy nationally to observe the November 8th election. You can read that letter here. In 2014, Congressman Cohen wrote to then-Attorney General Eric Holder asking for election monitors for Shelby County for the 2014 election. You can read the letter here. He also pressed the Attorney General at a House Judiciary Committee hearing to protect Shelby County voters. You can watch the video here. In 2012, Congressman Cohen requested federal oversight of the Shelby County Election Commission. You can read his letter here. In 2010, Congressman Cohen requested DOJ to investigate inaccurate voter rolls in Shelby County. You can read his letter here. The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice is charged with enforcing the federal voting rights laws that protect the rights of all citiz… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-cohen-good-fbi-and-nation-comey-must-resign | Ranking Member Cohen: For the Good of the FBI and Nation, Comey Must Resign | 2016-11-06 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, tonight released the following statement again calling on FBI Director James Comey to resign: "Nine days ago, F.B.I. Director James Comey sent a letter to members of Congress stating that emails had been discovered that could be 'potentially related' to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's email server. Director Comey sent his letter, which immediately and predictably became campaign fodder, despite saying in the letter that he had no idea of 'the significance of this newly discovered collection of emails.' A week ago, I called on Director Comey to do the right thing and resign because his letter without any substance was plainly premature, careless and unprecedented in its potential impact upon a Presidential election. Subsequently, it was learned that the emails in question had been in the possession of the F.B.I. for some time but had not been examined which makes his announcement of the existence of these emails without any idea of substance or significance more questionable and more careless, even 'extremely careless.' As I suggested last week, Director Comey's letter was used as political fodder by Secretary Clinton's opponents during early voting. It was clearly foreseeable that his statement would be seized on by the Trump campaign and embellished, exaggerated and distorted to have an effect on the election, and in fact, that occurred. Today, Director Comey sent another letter to members of Congress stating that after an examination of the emails nothing new has been found that would warrant bringing any charges against Secretary Clinton. This is precisely why Director Comey should not have made this statement last week because there was no there there. His judgment is now being questioned by Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike as well as his ability to put the Bureau first. For the good of the F.B.I., our nation and whomever succeeds Presi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/calling-fbi-director-james-comey-resign | Calling on FBI Director James Comey to Resign | 2016-11-04 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I called for the resignation of FBI Director James Comey, announced the beginning of open enrollment of the Healthcare.gov marketplace for 2017, attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Memphis VA Clinic, and celebrated the grand opening of the new Midtown Kroger. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Calling on FBI Director James Comey to ResignAnnouncing the Beginning of the Open Enrollment Period for the Healthcare.gov MarketplaceOpening a new VA Clinic in MemphisCelebrating the Grand Opening of the Midtown KrogerTuesday, November 8 is Election Day! 2016 Federal Procurement Fair for Small Business Owners8th Annual Veterans Day Luncheon Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant ProgramWeekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Calling on FBI Director James Comey to Resign On Sunday, I called for FBI Director James Comey to resign after his recent communication with members of Congress regarding the bureau's review of emails potentially related to Hillary Clinton's private email server. You can read my full statement here. I was on MSNBC, CNN and Fox News this week to discuss this topic and wrote and op-ed for The Hill which you can read here. Announcing the Beginning of the Open Enrollment Period for the Healthcare.gov Marketplace Tuesday was the first day of the open enrollment period for the Healthcare.gov insurance marketplace for 2017 plan shopping and comparison. Visit my website for more information on getting covered for 2017. Opening a new VA Clinic in Memphis Yesterday, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new VA Primary Care Clinic on Nonconnah Boulevard near I-240. This new facility is much larger than the old facility that was housed on Raines Road and will include all primary care clinic operations including physicians, nurses, technicians and administrative staff members. It will allow the Memphis VA to expand its services and improve p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/opinion-sake-fbi-comey-should-resign | The Hill: For the sake of the FBI, Comey should resign | 2016-11-03 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | As a nearly ten-year veteran of the House Judiciary Committee – the committee responsible for oversight of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Justice – and Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, earlier this week I called on FBI Director James Comey to resign his position after his recent communication with members of Congress regarding the bureau's review of emails potentially related to Hillary Clinton's personal email server. It has been widely reported that the Department of Justice has a longstanding practice of not commenting publicly about politically sensitive material within 60 days of an election. In compliance with this practice, Director Comey and the FBI made no public comments on former Donald Trumpcampaign manager Paul Manafort’s foreign business deals with Russia and Ukraine for millions of dollars. The FBI also made no public comments about their investigation into the Clinton Foundation. Furthermore, no comments were made regarding the Russians hacking employees of the DNC, DCCC and others. However, 11 days before the election, not 60 days, Director Comey made public comments regarding an FBI investigation involving Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. These comments have since been used by the Trump campaign to embellish, exaggerate and lie about the emails, despite Director Comey having admitted in his letter to Congress last week that he could “not yet assess whether or not this material may be significant.” This decision was plainly premature, unprecedented, and to use his own verbiage, “extremely careless,” and Director Comey should have known that he was throwing gas on a fire. The FBI concluded its thorough investigation into Secretary Clinton’s emails months ago, and Director Comey said that no reasonable prosecutor would file criminal charges against Secretary Clinton as there was no finding any mishandling of classified documents or information. There is no reason to suspect that these newly discovered emai… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/announcing-beginning-open-enrollment-period-healthcaregov | Announcing the Beginning of the Open Enrollment Period for the Healthcare.gov Marketplace | 2016-11-01 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend,The HealthCare.gov insurance marketplace opened today for 2017 plan shopping and comparisons. While the current shopping period runs until January 31, 2017, December 15, 2016 is the deadline to enroll in coverage that will take effect on January 1, 2017. You can visit http://bit.ly/hcSavings to see if you qualify for tax credits that will be applied as discounts on your monthly insurance premium. If you already have insurance coverage through the HealthCare.gov marketplace, your plan will be automatically renewed for 2017 but you should still visit HealthCare.gov to update your information, ensure you receive the full tax credit to which you are entitled, and review new options as cheaper insurance plans that better fit your needs may now be available. If you are on Medicare or your employer offers qualified health insurance in which you are enrolled, you're already covered and won't need to enter the Marketplace for your health coverage. If you aren't sure whether or not you should use the Marketplace to get insurance, call the Marketplace Hotline at (800) 318-2596, visit HealthCare.gov, or you can always call my office at (901) 544-4131. You can also call the Marketplace Hotline or my office to find out if TennCare (Tennessee's Medicaid program) is a coverage option for you. As always, I remain. Most sincerely, Steve Cohen Member of Congress | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-judiciary-constitution-and-civil-justice-subcommittee-ranking | House Judiciary Constitution and Civil Justice Subcommittee Ranking Member Cohen Calls for FBI Director Comey to Resign | 2016-10-31 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today called on James Comey to resign as Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). "FBI Director James Comey’s recent public comments on former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her emails, apparently before seeing any evidence, and against the advice of the Justice Department according to press reports, and even, some have suggested, in violation of the Hatch Act, make it clear that for the good of the FBI and the Justice Department, he should resign his position effective immediately,” said Congressman Cohen. “In the past, even quite recently, I have expressed my appreciation for Director Comey. I appreciated his courage as Deputy Attorney General when he stood up to President Bush’s Chief of Staff Andrew Card and White House Counsel Alberto Gonzales when they attempted to persuade hospitalized Attorney General John Ashcroft to reauthorize Bush's domestic surveillance program, which the Justice Department had just determined was illegal. When, in July of this year, Director Comey recommended no criminal charges against Hillary Clinton for her handling of classified information while she was Secretary of State but added his own sidebar of opinions to the announcement, I gave Director Comey the benefit of the doubt, despite the fact that his making such highly unusual remarks was called into question by many." Congressman Cohen elaborated, "While I cannot know Director Comey’s reasoning for his recent letter to House members notifying them about the FBI’s review of emails that he deemed 'potentially related' to Hillary Clinton's personal server, it was plainly premature, careless and unprecedented in its potential impact upon a Presidential election without a speck of information regarding the emails in question, their validity, substance or relevance. Director Comey stated in the letter that he had no idea of 'the significance of this newly discover… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/calling-more-department-justice-election-observers | Calling for More Department of Justice Election Observers | 2016-10-28 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch expressing concern over DOJ’s decreased number of election observers for the November 8th election, commended President Obama for commuting the prison sentences of more non-violent, low-level drug offenders, celebrated the opening of Big River Crossing, urged the Tennessee General Assembly to increase funding for the HOPE scholarship program, attended the Facing History and Ourselves Memphis Benefit Dinner, gave remarks at the Wolf River Greenway and Shelby County Natural Disaster Resiliency Grant Award ground breaking ceremony, met with local Memphis recording artists, and spoke on renewable energy to the Tennessee Chapter of the American Associations of Blacks in Energy. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Calling for More Department of Justice Election ObserversCommending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug OffendersCelebrating the Big River Crossing OpeningFighting for College AffordabilityAttending the Facing History and Ourselves DinnerProtecting Shelby County from FloodingMeeting with Memphis Recording ArtistsPromoting Renewable Energy2016 Federal Procurement Fair for Small Business Owners8th Annual Veterans Day Luncheon Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant ProgramWeekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Calling for More Department of Justice Election Observers On Wednesday, I sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch expressing concern about the U.S. Department of Justice’s announcement that, as a result of the Supreme Court’s decision in the Shelby County v. Holder case, it would be severely limited in the number of election observers that it can deploy nationally to observe the November 8th election. Read more here. Commending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug Offenders On Thursday, I commended President Obama for announcing his decision to commute the sentences of 98 larg… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/memphis-daily-news-tennessee-promise-draws-criticism-amid-rising-tuition | Memphis Daily News: Tennessee Promise Draws Criticism Amid Rising Tuition | 2016-10-27 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | MTSU student Emily Webb cobbled together enough money to pay for her first year and a half of expenses. But in the last year she had to borrow $5,000 to keep alive her dream of earning a degree from Middle Tennessee State University as tuition and living costs have increased each year. As a first-generation college student, the McGavock High School graduate from Nashville found it challenging enough to apply for scholarships through the FAFSA process required to apply for Tennessee’s Hope Scholarship and any other available financial aid. Even after receiving the money made available through the state’s lottery, she lacked the funds to pay for the rest of her tuition, housing, meals, books and living expenses, which is edging up to about $15,000 a year. Webb, 20, a junior majoring in global studies and minoring in international relations, was fortunate enough to land a Dream Scholarship to cover the rest of her expenses early on. When the money started drying up, she had to borrow, even though as vice president of marketing for the Student Government Association, she puts in eight hours a week in the SGA office, in addition to guiding prospective students on MTSU’s Blue Tour and working occasionally in the Grand Ole Opry’s concession stand in Nashville. Even in hock for college costs, Webb says she’s one of the “lucky ones,” compared to others who are $20,000-plus in debt. The average is $25,000 to $27,000 for graduates in Tennessee. “What I’ve noticed is it puts stress on college students because in general we weren’t really taught how to handle money or anything, besides taking a personal finance class in high school,” she says, adding high schools need to emphasize money management. More than that, Webb says, “Having the stress and being overwhelmed with having to come up with thousands of dollars can be detrimental to students and can be the reason they end up dropping out or don’t even attend college.” Webb says several friends from her freshman year wound up dropping out because they couldn’t afford colle… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-tennessee-promise-takes-away-neediest-and-most-meritorious-hope | Cohen: Tennessee Promise Takes Away from Neediest and Most Meritorious HOPE Scholarship Students | 2016-10-27 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) expressed concern about Tennessee Promise freezing the HOPE Scholarship Program in the wake of rising college tuition costs in Tennessee. For 20 years in the Tennessee General Assembly, then-State Senator Cohen worked to create the Tennessee Education Lottery that funds the HOPE and ASPIRE programs that have provided nearly $4 billion to Tennessee’s best and brightest students. Congressman Cohen has been an outspoken critic of Tennessee Promise ever since Governor Haslam announced the plan in 2014 because of its harmful impact on the successful HOPE Scholarship Program. “Tennessee Promise is hurting the neediest and most meritorious of Tennessee’s students,” said Congressman Cohen. “The Tennessee Promise program has imposed an opportunity cost of freezing and thus crippling the HOPE scholarship program at a time when college tuition costs in Tennessee have skyrocketed and accordingly students are amassing college debt that can follow them for years after graduation. In an article in the Memphis Daily News, Sam Stockard highlights a student at MTSU who is struggling to cope with the rising cost of tuition. The Tennessee General Assembly has not amended the HOPE Scholarship to keep up with rising tuition costs and now, after the implementation of Tennessee Promise, the HOPE Scholarship is providing even smaller scholarships. This has made it harder for our state’s most academically promising young people to begin attending 4-year colleges and universities in Tennessee. I urge the Tennessee General Assembly to increase funding for the HOPE Scholarship program rather than divert all additional lottery funds to Tennessee Promise. We should be incentivizing Tennessee’s best and brightest high school students to continue working hard so they can earn a scholarship that will actually help them afford a quality Tennessee education without resulting in mounting college debt.” You can read Sam Stockard’s article in the Memphis Daily News here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-commends-president-obama-commuting-sentences-98 | Congressman Cohen Commends President Obama for Commuting Sentences of 98 Americans Serving Unjustly Long Sentences | 2016-10-27 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), who has been the most constant voice in Congress imploring President Obama to use his absolute power to bring about justice through commutations and pardons, today commended President Obama’s decision to commute the sentences of 98 largely non-violent drug offenders, including one Memphian. Today’s commutations represent the President’s continued commitment to using his pardon and commutation powers to right the wrongs of outdated and discriminatory federal policies, and to provide a second chance to deserving individuals. President Obama has granted clemency to 688 prisoners in 2016 -- the most commutations in any single year of U.S. history -- and 872 prisoners during his presidency. "I commend President Obama for continuing to commute prison sentences for those serving unjustly long sentences for non-violent drug convictions, including that of a Memphian,” said Congressman Cohen. “The record hundreds of commutations issued this year alone are a significant step by President Obama toward a more rational and fair justice system—something I have long encouraged. Not only do our nation’s outdated drug laws disproportionately affect minority populations, but they continue a policy grounded in false premises and political expediency dating back to President Nixon’s ‘Southern Strategy.’ Additionally, it costs more than $30,000 per year to incarcerate each individual. I encourage President Obama to continue to commute more unjust sentences during his remaining time in office.”Congressman Cohen has repeatedly called on the President to make broader use of his pardon and commutation powers to address injustices, including a February 2016 column in the Commercial Appeal calling for increased staffing at the White House Counsel’s Office to review clemency petitions, a May 2015 column in the Blue Nation Review on the need to bring fairness back to the criminal justice system, a November 2014 column that appeared in The Hill, repeatedly urging then-Attorney General Holder to… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/big-river-crossing-weekend-remember | The Big River Crossing: A Weekend to Remember | 2016-10-25 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | The giant locomotive whistles, the inspiring speeches, the dazzling display of rainbow lighting on the Harahan Bridge at night, and the first treks across the bridge by foot and by bike are all embedded in Memphis history now, after a weekend that won’t be forgotten by those who were there.It was the weekend of opening ceremonies for the Big River Crossing and the completion of the Main Street to Main Street project that links downtown Memphis with downtown West Memphis, courtesy of a public/private partnership that involved numerous movers and shakers — notably Charles McVean, the veteran trader and investor who conceived of the project and bird-dogged it into being; Jim Young, the late Union Pacific executive who saw its promise; and Memphis congressman Steve Cohen, who used his energy, know-how, and Capitol Hill connections to get the $15 million TIGER grant (for Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) that finished up the financing.The TIGER grants, authorized by Congress in 2009, exist for the purpose of financing “road, rail, transit and port projects that promise to achieve national objectives,” and there’s no doubting that the River Street Crossing and the Main St. to Main St. Multi-Modal Connector Project (to give it its proper name) fill that bill.On Saturday morning, a sizeable crowd gathered at the Church by the River and on the grounds outside. These were spectators who had registered for the privilege — dignitaries of various kinds, public officials, media,, and various others who had, as it were, got the memo, and were on a checklist that let them get close to the morning’s events.A large crowd of other were gathered, short of the let-through point, near the railroad tracks just off Channel 3 Drive, and for many of them, train aficionados, that was close enough to see and enjoy the look and overpowering whistle sound of the big steam-engine locomotive, largest of the Union Pacific line, that had come over the Harahan from the Arkansas side as part of the ceremonies.The city’s most r… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-cohen-calls-more-department-justice-election-observers | Ranking Member Cohen Calls for More Department of Justice Election Observers | 2016-10-25 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch expressing concern about the U.S. Department of Justice’s announcement that, as a result of the Supreme Court’s decision in the Shelby County v. Holder case, it would be severely limited in the number of election observers that it can deploy nationally to observe the November 8th election. In Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court invalidated a key component of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that prevented voter discrimination before it occurred. New voting restrictions have been put in place in 20 states since 2010, making it harder for millions of Americans to exercise their right to vote. “…While I thank the DOJ for its efforts and its genuine commitment to monitoring the upcoming elections, I note that the DOJ will not be sending observers to most of the more than a dozen states that have imposed new voting restrictions that could deny the ability of some voters to exercise their right to vote,” said Congressman Cohen. …I would encourage the DOJ to use all existing authority to protect voting rights to the maximum extent permitted by law. The right to vote is absolutely central to our democracy. No American should ever be denied the ability to exercise that right based on unwarranted procedural barriers to voting or because of intimidation, discrimination, or for any other inappropriate reason.” A full copy of Congressman Cohen’s letter can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/big-river-crossing-has-opened-historic-and-iconic-harahan-bridge | Big River Crossing Has Opened on the Historic and Iconic Harahan Bridge! | 2016-10-25 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, On Saturday, I attended the grand opening ceremony for the Big River Crossing pedestrian and bike path across the historic and iconic Harahan Bridge in Downtown Memphis. The views were gorgeous; the lights were beautiful; and as Memphis philanthropist and visionary for the project Charlie McVean said, “It’s as close as you can ever get to a moving freight train.” View from Big River Crossing on the Harahan Bridge The Harahan Bridge will be equipped with 100,000 LED lights to illuminate the bridge nightly. The lights can also change colors for special occasions and holidays. Big River Crossing is an integral section of the Main to Main Intermodal Connector project which connects Main Street Memphis to Main Street West Memphis via pedestrian and bike paths. In 2012, I was proud to work with then-U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood to help secure nearly $15 million in federal funding through the TIGER grant program to help fund this project. Former President of the Downtown Memphis Commission (DMC) Paul Morris said: “It was Congressman Cohen's idea five years ago to join the DMC's Main St. Improvement project with Charlie McVean et al's vision to build a bike trail on the Harahan to make a compelling TIGER Grant application. Even then, USDOT gave us a 5% chance of TIGER award until Congressman Cohen personally advocated for our project to his old congressional colleague and friend Ray LaHood, who happened to then be the U.S. Secretary of Transportation. Even after the award, Congressman Cohen helped us get out of a ditch when the first bids were way over budget and we needed a time extension from USDOT so we could go back to the drawing board.” Congressman Cohen speaks during the Big River Crossing opening ceremony The federal TIGER grant was accompanied by public funding from the City of Memphis and Shelby County and private funding from a number of local philanthropists and companies. Together, through this public/private partnership, we created the country’s longest public pedestrian a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/big-river-crossing-opens-tomorrow | Big River Crossing Opens Tomorrow | 2016-10-21 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I spoke out against the minimal 0.3% COLA announced for Social Security recipients in 2017, praised the International Association of Chiefs of Police for issuing a formal apology for the role that their profession has played in society’s historical mistreatment of communities of color, and received the highest scores in the Tennessee Congressional Delegation on the National Food Policy Legislative Scorecard and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights Legislative Scorecard. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Big River Crossing Opens Tomorrow Fighting for a Fair Cost-of-Living Adjustment Rebuilding Trust Between Police and the Communities They Serve Early Voting Has Begun in Tennessee Reducing Hunger and Promoting Healthy Eating Habits Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) Grant Program Weekly Health Tip 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Big River Crossing Opens Tomorrow Tomorrow is the grand opening of the Big River Crossing pedestrian/bike path across the Harahan Bridge. In 2012, I was proud to work with then-U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood to secure nearly $15 million in federal funding through the TIGER grant program to help fund this project. I encourage everyone to head to Downtown Memphis to take advantage of one of the region’s most ambitious and impressive bicycle and pedestrian pathways. For more information, visit: http://www.bigrivercrossing.com/ Fighting for a Fair Cost-of-Living Adjustment On Tuesday, the Social Security Administration announced that there would be just a 0.3% increase in the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2017. I am concerned that this minimal COLA increase will place an undue burden on America’s senior citizens, disabled veterans, Supplemental Security Income recipients, and their families. Read more about how I believe we should change the formula to better reflect senior citizen’s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-s-statement-national-independence-day-azerbaijan | Congressman Cohens Statement on National Independence Day in Azerbaijan | 2016-10-18 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), co-chair of the Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus, released the following statement today marking the 25th National Independence Day in Azerbaijan: “Today, Azerbaijan celebrates the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitutional Act ‘On the State Independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan,’” said Congressman Cohen. “Since declaring its independence on October 18, 1991, Azerbaijan has become an important ally on global energy security, the fight against terrorism and preventing nuclear proliferation. It has also become a model for ethnic and religious tolerance in a secular and predominately Muslim nation. Azerbaijan should also be commended for having excellent relations with the State of Israel. I extend warm wishes to the people of Azerbaijan as they celebrate National Independence Day.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-social-security-should-give-seniors-higher-cost-living | Congressman Cohen: Social Security Should Give Seniors a Higher Cost of Living Adjustment | 2016-10-18 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) released the following statement today regarding the Social Security Administration’s announcement that there will only be a 0.3% increase in the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients in 2017. “I am concerned that the minimal cost-of-living increase this year will place an undue burden on America’s senior citizens, disabled veterans, Supplemental Security Income recipients, and their families,” said Congressman Cohen. “Cost of living adjustments are vital to help these recipients keep up with the rising prices of medical care, prescription drugs, food and housing. I have cosponsored legislation to change the calculation for cost-of-living adjustments so seniors receive increases that better reflect their spending patterns. I will continue to look out for seniors and other Social Security beneficiaries to ensure that they receive the raise each year that they deserve.” The annual COLA is based on the Bureau of Labor and Statistics measure of inflation through the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Congress enacted automatic increases for Social Security beneficiaries in 1975 and has averaged a nearly 4 percent increase per year since. Nearly 58 million Americans rely on Social Security benefits. Congressman Cohen is a cosponsor of the “Seniors Deserve a Raise Act.” If enacted, this bill would tie future Social Security cost-of-living adjustments to Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) because it takes into account the spending patterns of the elderly, such as health care costs, prescription drug costs, food and housing that tend to rise more rapidly. The bill would also provide an immediate increase in Social Security benefits for senior citizens to compensate for the average difference between CPI-E and CPI-W. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, using experimental data, the estimated CPI-E COLA increase for 2017 would be appro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-earns-perfect-score-national-food-policy-scorecard-114th-congress | Cohen Earns Perfect Score on National Food Policy Scorecard for 114th Congress | 2016-10-17 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today received a perfect 100% score from Food Policy Action on their 114th Congress National Food Policy Scorecard. The Congressman was the only member of the Tennessee Congressional Delegation to receive a 100% score. “I am proud to receive the only perfect score in the Tennessee Congressional Delegation on the 114th Congress National Food Policy Scorecard,” said Congressman Cohen. “I will continue to support policies that reduce hunger and promote healthy living in the United States.” Food Policy Action aims to highlight the importance of policies that promote healthy diets, reduce hunger at home, ensure healthy food is affordable and accessible, and examine the environmental impact of farming and food production. The National Food Policy Scorecard for the 114th Congress rates specific legislation regarding food policy issues like hunger, food access and subsidies, nutrition, food additives, food transparency, the effects of food production on the environment, and a multitude of other measures. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-praises-department-justice-decision-begin-collecting-data-police | Cohen Praises Department of Justice for Decision to Begin Collecting Data on Police Use of Force | 2016-10-14 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today praised the U.S. Department of Justice for announcing that it would begin collecting data early next year on the use of force by federal law enforcement agents and help local police departments report data on “in custody” deaths and collect information on a variety of other police actions. “I am pleased the Department of Justice will begin collecting data on force used by federal agents and will help local law enforcement collect data of their own, something my bill, the National Statistics on Deadly Force Transparency Act, has called for,” said Congressman Cohen. “Before we can truly address the problem of excessive force used by law enforcement we have to understand the nature of the problem and that begins with accurate data. This is a significant step in the right direction and a critical component to rebuilding trust between the police and the communities they serve.” Last year, Congressman Cohen reintroduced his National Statistics on Deadly Force Transparency Act. His legislation, which would go a step further than the Department of Justice’s announced plan, would, as a condition of receipt of full Byrne Justice Assistance Grant funding, incentivize states to collect data on all instances in which deadly force was used and report it to the Department of Justice. Without accurate and comprehensive data, racial disparities, abuses, and instances of excessive use of force are difficult to identify and unlikely to be fixed. Specifically, Congressman Cohen’s legislation would incentivize states to require local law enforcement agencies to provide data to the Attorney General on: The date of each instance when deadly force was used; The identifying characteristics of the victim and officer involved, including the race, gender, ethnicity, religion and approximate age of the victim; Any alleged criminal behavior by the victim; An explanation, if any, by the relev… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/praising-department-justice-its-decision-collect-data-police-use | Praising the Department of Justice for its Decision to Collect Data on Police Use of Force | 2016-10-14 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I praised the Department of Justice for announcing it would begin collecting data on force used by federal agents, welcomed NAACP President Cornell Brooks to Temple Israel in Memphis, was pleased to learn the DEA would delay placing kratom on its list of Schedule I drugs, and celebrated the wedding of my staff member Michael Fulton and his bride, Tia Pitt. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Praising the Department of Justice for its Decision to Collect Data on Police Use of Force Welcoming NAACP President Cornell Brooks to Memphis Fighting for a Sensible Drug Policy Celebrating the Wedding of Michael Fulton and Tia Pitt Joining President Obama in Israel for the Funeral of Shimon Peres 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are Available Bringing Congress to your Corner Praising the Department of Justice for its Decision to Collect Data on Police Use of Force Today, I praised the Department of Justice for announcing it would begin collecting data on force used by federal agents and will help local law enforcement collect data of their own, something for which my bill, the National Statistics on Deadly Force Transparency Act, has called for. This is a significant step in the right direction and a critical component to rebuilding trust between the police and the communities they serve. Read more about their decision and my bill here. Welcoming NAACP President Cornell Brooks to Memphis Photo credit to Lynn Eisenstatt On Wednesday, Rabbi Micah Greenstein, Senior Rabbi at Temple Israel and a member of the NAACP national board, invited NAACP President Cornell Brooks to Temple Israel for Yom Kippur services. President Brooks spoke to the congregation on justice and the long history between the Jewish and African American communities. Jack Greenberg, the last living NAACP Legal Defense Fund attorney who argued before the Supreme Court in the Brown v. Board of Education case, passed away on Yom Kippur. H… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-s-statement-dea-s-decision-delay-putting-kratom-list-schedule-i | Cohens Statement on the DEAs Decision to Delay Putting Kratom on the List of Schedule I Drugs | 2016-10-13 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement regarding the announcement of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to delay a final decision on placing kratom on the list of Schedule I drugs and begin a period of public comment: “I’m pleased to hear that the DEA delayed placing kratom on their list of Schedule I drugs,” said Congressman Cohen. “It’s important to have an open process to hear from consumers, researchers and stakeholders who would be impacted by this decision. A public comment period gives citizens a voice in this discussion. We only have to look at the current status of marijuana to see how the DEA’s drug scheduling can be misguided. When marijuana was placed on Schedule I, it was supposed to be temporary until the science was in, that was 1970. The science has been in for a long time, and keeping marijuana on Schedule I—with heroin and LSD—is ludicrous. Accurate scientific findings, in addition to public comment, need to guide the DEA’s decision-making process.” A letter to Acting Administrator Charles Rosenberg of the DEA sent by Congressman Cohen with fellow Members of Congress asking for a delay in their decision to place kratom as a Schedule I drug can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-receives-perfect-score-human-rights-campaign-scorecard | Cohen Receives Perfect Score on Human Rights Campaign Scorecard | 2016-10-07 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today received a perfect 100 score on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) scorecard for the 114th Congress. “It is an honor to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign for my work on behalf of the LGBTQ community,” said Congressman Cohen. “I have long advocated for civil rights for all Americans, regardless of their sexual orientation, and I remain committed to fighting for full equality.”Established in 1980, the Human Rights Campaign represents a grassroots force of more than 750,000 members and supporters nationwide. As the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, HRC envisions an America where LGBTQ people are ensured of their basic equal rights, and can be open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/commending-presidential-commutations-non-violent-drug-offenders-0 | Commending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug Offenders | 2016-10-07 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I commended President Obama for commuting the sentences of 102 largely non-violent, low-level drug offenders incarcerated in federal prisons, including one Memphian, attended the Seafood Nutrition Partnership luncheon in Midtown with NBA star Detlef Schrempf, delivered remarks at the special program honoring the Memphis 13 at Bruce Elementary School, and received a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign on their 114th Congress Legislative Scorecard. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Commending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug OffendersEncouraging Healthy EatingHonoring the Memphis 13 at Bruce Elementary SchoolReceiving a Perfect Score from the Human Rights Campaign 2017 U.S. Capitol Historical Society Calendars Are AvailableBringing Congress to your Corner Commending Presidential Commutations for Non-Violent Drug Offenders On Thursday, President Obama announced his decision to commute the sentences of 102 largely non-violent, low-level drug offenders incarcerated in federal prisons, including one Memphian. President Obama has granted clemency to 590 prisoners in 2016 -- the most commutations in any single year of U.S. history -- and 774 prisoners during his presidency. I encourage President Obama to continue to commute more unjust sentences during his remaining time in office. You can read more about my work on commutations here. Encouraging Healthy Eating On Monday, I joined former NBA star Detlef Schrempf at the Seafood Nutrition Partnership luncheon at Tsunami in Midtown. The Seafood Nutrition Partnership aims to encourage a healthier lifestyle with a seafood-rich diet. After the luncheon, I went straight to Fresh Market to buy some fresh salmon. To learn more about the Seafood Nutrition Partnership's Healthy Heart Pledge and how to improve diet by adding seafood, click here. Honoring the Memphis 13 at Bruce Elementary School On Monday, I delivered remarks at the “Because of You” spec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-commends-president-obama-commuting-sentences-102 | Congressman Cohen Commends President Obama for Commuting Sentences of 102 Americans Serving Unjustly Long Sentences | 2016-10-06 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), who has been the most constant voice in Congress imploring President Obama to use his absolute power to bring about justice through commutations and pardons, today commended President Obama’s decision to commute the sentences of 102 largely non-violent drug offenders, including one Memphian. Today’s commutations represent the President’s continued commitment to using his pardon and commutation powers to right the wrongs of outdated and discriminatory federal policies, and to provide a second chance to deserving individuals. President Obama has granted clemency to 590 prisoners in 2016 -- the most commutations in any single year of U.S. history -- and 774 prisoners during his presidency. "I commend President Obama for continuing to commute prison sentences for those serving unjustly long sentences for non-violent drug convictions, including that of a Memphian,” said Congressman Cohen. “The record hundreds of commutations issued this year alone are a significant step by President Obama toward a more rational and fair justice system—something I have long encouraged. Not only do our nation’s outdated drug laws disproportionately affect minority populations, but they continue a policy grounded in false premises and political expediency dating back to President Nixon’s ‘Southern strategy.’ Additionally, it costs more than $30,000 per year to incarcerate each individual. I encourage President Obama to continue to commute more unjust sentences during his remaining time in office.”Congressman Cohen has repeatedly called on the President to make broader use of his pardon and commutation powers to address injustices, including a February 2016 column in the Commercial Appeal calling for increased staffing at the White House Counsel’s Office to review clemency petitions, a May 2015 column in the Blue Nation Review on the need to bring fairness back to the criminal justice system, a November 2014 column that appeared in The Hill, repeatedly urging then-Attorney General Holder t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-congratulates-marcus-whitney-on-invitation-to-white-house | Cooper Congratulates Marcus Whitney on Invitation to White House Festival | 2016-10-03 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) today congratulated Nashville entrepreneur Marcus Whitney on his invitation to South by South Lawn (SXSL), a White House festival of ideas, art and action. Whitney became a key figure in the Nashville technology sector as a co-founder of Moontoast, a social media advertising company now known as Spendsetter. Currently, Whitney is president of Jumpstart Foundry, a Nashville-based startup accelerator he co-founded. He also has served on numerous boards over the years. “Marcus has played a huge role in pushing Nashville to become a top city for technology and innovation,” Rep. Cooper said. “Marcus is one of our strongest leaders, and it’s no surprise he’s at the White House today showing what Nashville has to offer.” Inspired by President Obama’s recent involvement at South by Southwest (SXSW), SXSL highlights the contributions of creators, innovators and organizers from across the country. The festival is a day of music, film and great ideas. SXSL is being streamed live today on WhiteHouse.gov, Facebook.com/WhiteHouse, and sxsw.com/live. Members of the public can join the online conversation using #SXSL to share ideas. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-invites-students-to-academy-day-tomorrow | Cooper Invites Students to Academy Day Tomorrow | 2016-09-30 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | NASHVILLE – The office of U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) is hosting an information session tomorrow morning for area middle and high school students interested in America’s service academies. Rep. Cooper’s annual Academy Day event is designed to connect prospective students and their families with educational opportunities at the service academies. Representatives from the following will be in attendance: U.S. Military Academy U.S. Naval Academy U.S. Air Force Academy U.S. Coast Guard Academy U.S. Merchant Marine Academy U.S. State Department National Guard ROTC The service academies offer full scholarships, leadership training, internship opportunities and a chance to see the world. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Nashville Public Library at 615 Church Street. The program will begin at 10 a.m. Academy Day is open to 8th-12th grade students in the 5th District, which includes Cheatham, Davidson and Dickson counties. For more information, please call Kathy Buggs at (615) 736-5295. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/joining-president-obama-israel-funeral-shimon-peres | Joining President Obama in Israel for the Funeral of Shimon Peres | 2016-09-30 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I joined President Obama in Israel for the funeral of former Israeli President and Prime Minister Shimon Peres, commemorated the 25th anniversary of the National Civil Rights Museum, welcomed Alfreda Ferrell, the granddaughter of Ida B. Wells, and her granddaughter Tiana Ferrell to my Washington office, continued my call for justice in the Darrius Stewart case, discussed issues facing Congress on C-SPAN, expressed disappointment in Blue Cross Blue Shield’s decision to pull out of the federal healthcare marketplace in Memphis, praised President Obama for nominating the first U.S. Ambassador to Cuba in 50 years, celebrated National Voter Registration Day, and congratulated two Shelby County Schools for being named Blue Ribbon Schools. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Joining President Obama in Israel for the funeral of Shimon PeresCommemorating the 25th Anniversary of the National Civil Rights MuseumWelcoming the Family of Ida B. Wells to My Washington Office Fighting for Justice in the Darrius Stewart CaseRecessing Congress with Work Left to Do Discussing Issues Facing Congress on C-SPANStriving to Make Healthcare More AffordableNominating the First U.S. Ambassador to Cuba in 50 YearsCelebrating National Voter Registration DayCongratulating Two Shelby County SchoolsJanuary-March 2017 Timed Passes for NMAAHC Available Monday September is Suicide Prevention MonthBringing Congress to your Corner Joining President Obama in Israel for the funeral of Shimon Peres Congressman Cohen and Shimon Peres in Israel in 2007 I was deeply saddened by the death of former Israeli President and Prime Minister Shimon Peres. Mr. Peres was one of the greatest leaders I’ve ever met. He had a storied career as one of the founders of Israel, Defense Minister during Operation Entebbe, Prime Minister, President and Nobel laureate for his role in negotiating the Oslo Accords peace agreement. It was a privilege to be invited by Preside… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-join-president-obama-israel-shimon-peres-funeral | Congressman Cohen to Join President Obama in Israel for Shimon Peres Funeral | 2016-09-29 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) will join President Barack Obama as part of the U.S delegation to Israel for the funeral of former Israeli President and Prime Minister Shimon Peres. “I am honored to be joining President Obama and Secretary Kerry in Israel for the funeral of Shimon Peres,” said Congressman Cohen. “Mr. Peres was one of the greatest diplomats I’ve ever met. He had a storied career as one of the founders of Israel, Defense Minister during Operation Entebbe, Prime Minister, President and Nobel laureate for his role in negotiating the Oslo Accords. It is humbling to be invited to help represent the United States at the funeral of this accomplished world leader. Mr. Peres’s presence will be missed by many. I thank President Obama for including me at this historic occasion to remember the life of such an illustrious man.” A photo of Congressman Cohen and Shimon Peres from the Congressman’s 2007 trip to Israel can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-commemorates-25th-anniversary-national-civil-rights-museum | Cohen Commemorates the 25th Anniversary of the National Civil Rights Museum | 2016-09-28 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today commemorated the 25th anniversary of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, TN on the House floor, and released the following statement: “Today marks the 25th anniversary of the opening of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, TN,” said Congressman Cohen. “The museum is located at the site of the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. The National Civil Rights Museum is the phoenix that arose from the ashes of that tragedy. The museum tells the story of the many, both black and white, who fought for civil rights for all people in this country. I urge everyone who has the opportunity to go to Memphis and tour the National Civil Rights Museum and pay tribute to the civil rights soldiers who strove to make America what it was intended to be: a more perfect union.” Video of the Congressman’s remarks on the House floor can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-s-statement-passing-former-israeli-president-shimon-peres | Cohens Statement on the Passing of Former Israeli President Shimon Peres | 2016-09-28 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the passing of former Israeli Prime Minister, President and Nobel laureate Shimon Peres: “I am deeply saddened by the death of Shimon Peres,” said Congressman Cohen. “Mr. Peres and I met on several occasions and he’s one of the most impressive people I’ve ever encountered. He was Prime Minister of Israel, President of Israel, and held an array of other positions within the Israeli government. He was also awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1994 for his role in negotiating the Oslo Accords peace agreement. As Defense Minister, Mr. Peres played an integral role in the hostage rescue mission carried out by the IDF in Uganda in 1976 known as Operation Entebbe. My thoughts go out to Mr. Peres, his family and the entire country. A giant has fallen in Israel.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-statement-on-repatriation-of-mexican-american-war-remains | Cooper Statement on Repatriation of Mexican-American War Remains | 2016-09-27 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) today issued a statement on a repatriation ceremony in which the remains of some members of a Tennessee militia will be returned to America 169 years after the Mexican-American War. For some time, Cooper and his staff – in consultation with the Mexican government and researchers at Middle Tennessee State University – have been working to bring home the remains of Tennessee veterans who fought in the Battle of Monterrey. “Whether it’s a recent war or a war fought more than a century ago, Tennesseans never forget their bravest citizens,” Rep. Cooper said. “Our fallen veterans always need to come home.” The Mexican-American War was fought from 1846-47. The conflict led to America adding territory that later would become seven states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. Due to votes in Washington, Cooper is unable to attend Wednesday’s ceremony at Dover Air Force Base, but his Defense Fellow Maj. Donavan Laskey will be in attendance. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-s-statement-outcome-darrius-stewart-doj-investigation | Cohens Statement on the Outcome of the Darrius Stewart DOJ Investigation | 2016-09-27 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) findings regarding the shooting of Darrius Stewart, a 19-year-old African American man, who was killed by a Memphis police officer following a routine traffic stop of a car in which Stewart was a passenger: “I am disappointed that the Department of Justice will not be bringing civil rights charges against Officer Schilling, but I am pleased that the Department of Justice and U.S. Attorney Stanton conducted a complete and thorough investigation into the shooting of Darrius Stewart, which I requested,” said Congressman Cohen. “Despite DOJ’s decision, however, there was still a miscarriage of justice. The standard for an indictment for a federal civil rights charge is extremely high, so I understand and respect U.S. Attorney Stanton’s decision, but there can still be a miscarriage of justice even when civil rights violation standards are not met. District Attorney Weirich must agree since she requested a manslaughter indictment, but for whatever reason, the grand jury failed to follow her recommendation. I suspect the Stewart family will now pursue a civil suit, and I hope justice will be meted out.” Congressman Cohen initially asked the Department of Justice to investigate the Darrius Stewart case in July 2015. A copy of Congressman Cohen’s July letter to the Department of Justice can be found here. A copy of the Department of Justice’s October 16, 2015 response can be found here. Congressman Cohen renewed his call for a federal investigation in November 2015. A copy of Congressman Cohen’s November 3 letter to Attorney General Lynch can be found here. In November 2015, Congressman Cohen asked U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch to open a federal investigation during a House Judiciary Hearing. The full video of Congressman Cohen’s questions to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/stax-music-academy-and-tennessee-state-university-perform | Stax Music Academy and Tennessee State University Perform at Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture Opening Weekend Events | 2016-09-27 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, On Saturday, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture officially opened to the public. It is the only museum in America devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture, history too often overlooked or given short shrift in other museums. Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. I was so proud to see Memphis and Tennessee well represented during this weekend’s events. The museum hosted a celebration on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Saturday that included speeches from President Barack Obama, civil rights icon Representative John Lewis (D-GA), museum director Lonnie Bunch, and music from Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle, and Memphis’s own Stax Music Academy. You can watch segments of the Stax performance here and here. Stax Academy performs at the museum opening celebration On Friday, I was pleased to listen to the Tennessee State University marching band perform at the White House reception hosted by the President and First Lady in honor of the museum opening. I sang “I’m so proud I go to TSU” with the band and got a nice response from the Memphians after I shouted “Memphis in the House!” I was proud to hear some of the band members were recipients of the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship. You can watch segments of their performance here and here. Tennessee State University Marching Band performs at the White House The National Museum of African American History and Culture tells the story of African Americans in the United States, including the beginnings of slavery in colonial America, the Civil War, Reconstruction and the struggle for equal rights, the Jim Crow Era, the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, and the election of our first African-American President Barack Obama. The museum also highlights African American contributions to music, movies, sports and the arts. I encourage all of my constituents to visit the museum if possible. Visitors can reserve free timed entry pa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-statement-on-blue-cross-blue-shield-leaving-aca-marketplace-in | Cooper Statement on Blue Cross Blue Shield Leaving ACA Marketplace in Nashville | 2016-09-26 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-05) today issued a statement in reaction to Blue Cross Blue Shield leaving the health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act in Nashville and other areas in Tennessee. “I'm disappointed about Blue Cross’s decision. The health care exchanges are working in many other states, but our state is turning down billions of dollars that would stabilize our health insurance market,” Rep. Cooper said. “I’m thankful that Nashvillians still have options in the marketplace, but it’s clear we need Insure Tennessee now more than ever.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-s-statement-blue-cross-blue-shield-dropping-out-aca-marketplace | Cohens Statement on Blue Cross Blue Shield Dropping Out from ACA Marketplace in Memphis | 2016-09-26 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the news that Blue Cross Blue Shield has pulled coverage from the federal health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act in Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville, Tennessee: “It is disappointing that Blue Cross Blue Shield has pulled out of the Affordable Care Act federal marketplace in Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville. Republicans in Congress have been doing everything in their power to dismantle the Affordable Care Act since it began, and the Tennessee General Assembly has refused to accept additional Medicaid funding from the federal government. This has created a more uncertain and riskier environment for health insurance providers. However, despite the efforts of those who wish to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, it continues to help Memphians every day by giving uninsured citizens access to high-quality, affordable health coverage; by making sure insurance companies can no longer discriminate against women or those with pre-existing conditions; by saving our seniors money on their prescription drugs; and by extending family coverage to young adults. That will not change. I and many other members of Congress believe that affordable health care should be a right, not a privilege, and we will continue to work to improve the Affordable Care Act. Whether it means including a public option or Medicare for all, we will make healthcare more affordable and available.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-statement-on-passing-of-ed-temple | Cooper Statement on Passing of Ed Temple | 2016-09-23 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-5) today issued a statement on the passing of Ed Temple. "Ed Temple was one of the greatest coaches of any sport in history,” Rep. Cooper said. “His TSU Tigerbelles, including the legendary Wilma Rudolph, set the standard for track and field. Coach Temple broke barriers and made history from Nashville to the Olympics. What an amazing life, what an amazing man." Coach Temple’s athletes dominated track and field, earning 23 Olympic medals – 13 of them gold. Among Coach Temple’s many protégés, Rudolph became the fastest woman in the world. A pillar of Nashville, Coach Temple helmed the TSU women’s team for more than four decades and shaped his community. In 2012, he was inducted into the U.S. Olympics Hall of Fame, and last year, a statue honoring Coach Temple was unveiled along a greenway in downtown Nashville. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/joining-president-obama-white-house-celebrate-opening-smithsonian | Joining President Obama at the White House to celebrate the Opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture | 2016-09-23 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I joined President Obama at the White House to celebrate the opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, introduced a bipartisan bill to hold property owners of low-income housing accountable for poor living conditions, attended a Senate subcommittee hearing on the HUD inspection of these low-income housing properties, renewed my call for the use of independent prosecutors in instances of police use of deadly force, participated in a House Judiciary subcommittee hearing on abortion rights, welcomed representatives of the Nashville Songwriters Association to my office, met with the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, participated in a Congressional Biomedical Research Caucus briefing, and received the second highest score of any lawmaker on the Flyersrights.org legislative scorecard. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Joining President Obama at the White House to celebrate the Opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Fighting for Safe, Clean and Affordable Housing Renewing Call for Independent Prosecutors for Police ShootingsSupporting a Woman’s Right to ChooseWelcoming Nashville Songwriters to WashingtonMeeting with the Prime Minister of Timor-LesteCo-Chairing the Congressional Biomedical Research CaucusEnsuring the Safety and Comfort of Airline PassengersSeptember is Suicide Prevention MonthBringing Congress to your Corner Joining President Obama at the White House to celebrate the Opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Congressman Steve Cohen, singer and actor Harry Belafonte and author and historian Taylor Branch at the White House Congressman Steve Cohen and the Tennessee State University Marching Band Today, I had the honor of joining President and Mrs. Obama at the White House to celebrate the opening of the new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cooper-supports-bill-to-prevent-excessive-drug-price-increases | Cooper Supports Bill to Prevent Excessive Drug Price Increases | 2016-09-22 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-5) and other members of the Blue Dog Coalition this week endorsed a bill that could prevent dramatic drug price hikes seen recently with the EpiPen and other medicines. Cooper is a cosponsor of the Lower Drug Costs Through Competition Act. The bill would help streamline the FDA approval process on generic drugs. It also would encourage competition by providing incentives for more generic drugs to come to the market. “The U.S. has some of the highest prescription drug costs in the world. And that’s before companies jack up prices or use shadow pricing techniques for life-saving medicine,” Rep. Cooper said. “We’re just not getting a good deal, and Congress has been dragging its feet for years. People should get the best possible price for prescription drugs. They shouldn’t be denied access to medicine that may save their lives.” Turing Pharmaceuticals CEO Martin Shkreli raised the price of a life-saving drug by more than 5,000 percent. Meanwhile, Mylan, the lone manufacturer of the popular EpiPen, raised the price of that drug by more than 400 percent, lifting the price to about $600 per pack. While Mylan purchased the rights to EpiPen about a decade ago, the EpiPen itself is off-patent. That means generic equivalents are allowed to come to the market, but two generic drugs have been stymied by the pricey and lengthy FDA application process. The Lower Drug Costs Through Competition Act would require action on applications to market generic drugs within six months of submission when there is no equivalent generic available, or for drugs on the drug shortage list. It also creates incentives for pharmaceutical companies to develop more generic drugs. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-attends-senate-hearing-gmf-properties | Cohen Attends Senate Hearing on GMF Properties | 2016-09-22 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today attended the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development’s hearing on the Oversight of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Inspection Process. This hearing was inspired by the deplorable living conditions at Global Ministries Foundation properties in Memphis, Tennessee, Jacksonville, Florida, and elsewhere across the country. “I would like to thank the Senate Housing Committee for organizing this important hearing and Senators Marco Rubio and Bill Nelson of Florida for providing their testimony,” said Congressman Cohen. “It is clear that Congress must step in to prevent this from happening again in Memphis or anywhere else. I had the opportunity to speak with Senator Bob Corker, who sits on the Subcommittee, after the hearing. We have been very disturbed by the deplorable living conditions many in Memphis and around the country have experienced at GMF properties. This is not a partisan issue. No one should be allowed to live in these conditions.” Yesterday, Congressman Cohen introduced the bipartisan Housing Accountability Act. This legislation would require HUD to survey tenants living in subsidized housing twice a year about property conditions and management performance and create new penalties for property owners who repeatedly fail the tenant surveys. Global Ministries Foundation (GMF), a faith-based non-profit organization located in Memphis, Tennessee, receives Section 8 project-based rental assistance payments from the HUD. The non-profit has over 40 properties in its portfolio in Tennessee, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina and New York. Last year, numerous media outlets reported on deplorable living conditions at GMF owned properties in Memphis. Apartment units in Memphis had holes in the walls made by rats, exposed electrical wiring, broken windows, no working light, a moldy bathroom and leaky roof. In Jacksonville, … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-renews-call-independent-prosecutors-police-shootings | Cohen Renews Call for Independent Prosecutors for Police Shootings | 2016-09-22 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In the wake of the police shootings of Terence Crutcher in Tulsa, Oklahoma and Keith Lamont Scott in Charlotte, North Carolina, Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today renewed his call for Congress to pass the Police Training and Independent Review Act (H.R. 2302) to encourage states to use independent prosecutors to investigate police use of deadly force. Congressman Cohen spoke on the House floor today urging his colleagues to support the bill, which has been endorsed by the NAACP and Chicago Tribune, and has 97 cosponsors in the House of Representatives. You can watch that video here. “I woke up Tuesday morning to the shocking video of Mr. Crutcher being shot to death by police while his hands were up and he was on his car,” said Congressman Cohen. “It’s one of the most shocking videos I’ve seen. At best it was gross negligence; at worst it was murder. This has been happening too often in the United States.” “Even former Republican Congressman Joe Scarborough agrees that independent prosecutors must be used in instances of police use of deadly force. I urge my Republican Colleagues, none of whom are on the bill, to follow Joe Scarborough’s lead, and support this issue. Congress must pass the Police Training and Independent Review Act to ensure police receive the appropriate training to understand different cultures and require independent prosecutors to investigate police use of deadly force. It is necessary for people to know that justice is indeed blind.” The Police Training and Independent Review Act would encourage states to use independent prosecutors to investigate and, if need be, prosecute instances of police use of deadly force. It would also encourage states to provide improved training for police officers. The bill was introduced by Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) and Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (MO-01) (whose district includes Ferguson, MO). The bill’s 97 cosponsors include Congressio… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-and-ross-introduce-bipartisan-housing-accountability-act | Cohen and Ross Introduce Bipartisan Housing Accountability Act | 2016-09-21 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Congressman Dennis Ross (R-FL) today introduced the bipartisan Housing Accountability Act of 2016 to hold property owners of low-income housing accountable for poor living conditions. This legislation would require the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to survey tenants living in subsidized housing twice a year about property conditions and management performance and create new penalties for property owners who repeatedly fail the tenant surveys. The Housing Accountability Act comes in the wake of recent local and federal investigations that found deplorable living conditions at several federally subsidized-housing properties owned by the Global Ministries Foundation (GMF) in Memphis, Tennessee and Jacksonville, Florida. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Bill Nelson (D-FL) introduced a similar bill in the United States Senate in July. “I have been very disturbed by the deplorable living conditions many Memphians have experienced at Warren and Tulane Apartments,” said Congressman Cohen. “Congress must step in to prevent this from happening again in Memphis or anywhere else. This legislation would hold slumlords of low-income housing accountable for neglecting their properties and their tenants. By surveying tenants directly on property conditions, residents can report any issues directly to HUD without fear of reprisal from owners and managers who have been known to threaten to evict those who try to complain.” “No matter someone’s income or socioeconomic status, no one deserves to live in squalor,” said Congressman Ross. “Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and to live in a safe, clean home. People from all backgrounds and of all ages are living in deplorable living conditions in subsidized housing, with fear of eviction, retaliation or inaction if they make any reasonable requests or complaints to their landlords or property managers. I am proud to join Rep. Cohen and Sens. Rubio and Nelson in putting forth bipartisan legislation that … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-receives-second-highest-score-any-lawmaker-flyersrightsorg | Cohen Receives Second Highest Score of Any Lawmaker on Flyersrights.org Legislative Scorecard | 2016-09-21 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation, today received the second highest score of any U.S. Representative or Senator on the Flyersrights.org 114th Congress Legislative Scorecard for passenger rights issues. A copy of the scorecard can be found here. “I am proud to receive the second highest score of any lawmaker on the Flyersrights.org legislative scorecard,” said Congressman Cohen. “Through my work on the House Aviation Subcommittee and on the SEAT Act, I have consistently fought for airline passengers to have a safe and comfortable flight experience. It is unfortunate that the scores were so low on the scorecard. The airline industry has been reaping historic profits, yet they are increasingly reducing the safety, comforts and conveniences of flying.” Earlier this year, Congressman Cohen introduced the bipartisan Seat Egress in Air Travel (SEAT) Act to direct the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish minimum seat size standards for the safety and health of airline passengers. With more than 40,000 members, FlyersRights.org is the largest non-profit consumer organization in the United States representing airline passengers. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/requesting-doj-investigation-trump-foundation-misconduct | Requesting DOJ Investigation of the Trump Foundation for Misconduct | 2016-09-16 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I joined House Judiciary Committee Democrats in sending a letter to the Department of Justice requesting an investigation into the Trump Foundation for misconduct, mourned the victims of the deadly South Memphis fire, introduced a bill to protect underage sex abuse victims, welcomed TEAM Memphis to my Capitol Hill office, attended the Congressional Football Caucus kick-off breakfast and spoke with Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby, participated in the Southern Heritage Classic parade, and announced two grants for Memphis International Airport and the University of Memphis. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Requesting DOJ Investigation of the Trump Foundation for MisconductMourning the Victims of the South Memphis FireExtending Justice for Sex Crime VictimsWelcoming TEAM Memphis to WashingtonStanding Up For University of Memphis AthleticsCelebrating the Southern Heritage ClassicProtecting our EnvironmentImproving Health Data CollectionSeptember is Suicide Prevention MonthOpening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Bringing Congress to your Corner Requesting DOJ Investigation of the Trump Foundation for Misconduct On Wednesday I, along with the other Democratic members of the House Judiciary Committee, sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch requesting the U.S. Department of Justice immediately investigate the Donald J. Trump Foundation for allegations of misconduct surrounding the $25,000 donation to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. I spoke with Tamron Hall on MSNBC about this letter. You can watch my interview here. Mourning the Victims of the South Memphis Fire My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, families, neighbors and friends affected by the early-morning fire in South Memphis on Monday. I am deeply saddened by this horrible tragedy. I would like to thank the Memphis Fire Department and the other first responders and medical personnel on the scen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/poe-and-cohen-introduce-extending-justice-sex-crime-victims-act | Poe and Cohen Introduce Extending Justice for Sex Crime Victims Act | 2016-09-15 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, Congressman Ted Poe (R-TX), co-founder of the Congressional Victims’ Rights Caucus, and Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) introduced H.R. 6036, Extending Justice for Sex Crime Victims Act of 2016. The bi-partisan, bi-cameral bill harmonizes the statute of limitations for sex abuse victims and sex trafficking victim minors to 28, rather than the current age of 21. H.R. 6036 is the House version of a bill introduced by Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and John Cornyn (R-TX) in the U.S. Senate. Under current law, victims of both trafficking and other federal sex offenses are able to obtain justice by bringing civil claims against their perpetrators. While both sections allow claims for 10 years after the underlying offense, Section 1595 (trafficking) also allows claims until the minor is 28, but Section 2255 (other sex crimes) only permits the claim until age 21. The legislation also clarifies that the statute of limitations does not begin until the victim actually discovers the violation or the injury. “Love never comes with black eyes and bruises,” said Congressman Poe. “Trafficking and sexual abuse occur every day. Unfortunately, the vast majority of this abuse often goes unreported. Children are often victimized before their memories form, sometimes as young as three-years-old. This legislation takes the necessary steps to make the statute of limitations consistent for reporting sexual abuse and trafficking. Congress must stand up and be an advocate for children and victims.” “Sexual abuse of children is a very serious crime that too often goes unreported,” said Congressman Cohen. “Our bill increases the statute of limitations for victims of child sex abuse to ensure that they have the time and resources they need to seek justice. Sex crimes often happen to young children who may not become fully aware of these crimes until later in their life. This is a common-sense, bipartisan bill, and I hope Congress will pass it.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-announces-4-million-research-grant-university-memphis | Cohen Announces $4 Million Research Grant for the University of Memphis | 2016-09-14 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced the University of Memphis has been awarded a $4,000,000 grant from the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Advanced Cyberinfrastructure Division for research of high-frequency mobile sensor data with an emphasis on health data collection. “Our students at the University of Memphis are a great resource for both our city and our country,” said Congressman Cohen. “This grant will help make research opportunities available that provide real-world, hands-on experience and pave the way for ground-breaking research on health data collection. I am pleased to see the continued federal investment in the University of Memphis.” Mobile sensors (embedded in phones, vehicles, wearables, and the environment) continuously capture data in great detail, and have the potential to address problems in a range of scientific and engineering domains. This grant project focuses upon a specific case -- health data -- that builds upon several capabilities developed in National Institutes of Health (NIH) sponsored projects for assembling and analyzing health data collected through mobile sensors and apps. More information on the National Science Foundation grant award can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-announces-24-million-federal-grant-memphis-shelby-county-airport | Cohen Announces $2.4 Million Federal Grant for Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority | 2016-09-13 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority received a $2,446,731 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) Program to support clean air and airport emissions reduction initiatives at Memphis International Airport. “As the Fed-Ex ‘Super Hub,’ Memphis International Airport is the second busiest cargo airport in the world,” said Congressman Cohen. “This federal funding will help ensure that the airport can continue serving travelers comfortably and cargo efficiently while protecting our environment for Memphians who live nearby.” Memphis International Airport is a world-class facility serving more than 6 million passengers each year. Dedicated in 1929 as the Memphis Municipal Airport with just two major carriers, the airport now hosts several national carriers as well as the FedEx “Super Hub.” Memphis International has grown into the busiest cargo airport in the country, and is the second-busiest in the world—behind only Hong Kong. More information about the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) Program can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-commemorates-15th-anniversary-september | Cohen Commemorates the 15th Anniversary of the September | 2016-09-11 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement on the 15th anniversary of the deadly terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001: “September 11th is a day for each of us to take time to reflect on the terrorist attacks that occurred 15 years ago today and remember the victims who tragically lost their lives, as well as those who survived but carry the horror of that day with them. We also honor the heroism of firefighters, policemen and first responders who risked their lives on September 11 and the subsequent days, weeks and months at Ground Zero and the Pentagon. Memphians in particular should remember Memphis native Gary Lasko and keep his family in their thoughts. Gary died in the collapse of the first World Trade Center building. As we continue the fight against terrorism and ISIS, we must remain ever vigilant so that a tragedy like September 11, 2001 is never repeated.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/returning-washington | Returning to Washington | 2016-09-09 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, Congress returned to Washington after the longest recess in modern history and has yet to address many issues important to the American people, I wore a seersucker suit on the House floor after Labor Day to highlight the reality of global warming, I urged the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice to take action to restore the Voting Rights Act, attended a Labor Day picnic in Memphis to honor our workforce, announced a more than $4 million federal grant to improve Memphis bus services, received a perfect 100% score from the American Association of University Women for my commitment to equality for women, and sent a letter to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) regarding my concerns about TVA’s decision to use fresh water from the Memphis Sands Aquifer to power their new gas generators. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Returning to WashingtonRemembering 9/11Highlighting the Reality of Global WarmingRestoring the Voting Rights ActHonoring America’s WorkforceImproving Memphis Bus ServicesFighting for Equality for WomenEnsuring Safe Drinking Water in Memphis Bringing Congress to your Corner Returning to Washington This week, Congress returned to Washington after the longest recess in modern history. Congress has yet to act on a variety of issues important to the American people such as the Zika virus, the Flint water crisis, restoring the Voting Rights Act or criminal justice reform. We have concluded our first week back and we still haven’t addressed any of these issues. It’s time for Republicans in Congress to end their legislative obstruction and do their job. On Monday, I joined Ari Melber on MSNBC to discuss the fall session in Congress. You can watch my interview here. Remembering 9/11 Today, I attended the House of Representatives Remembrance Ceremony for the 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. As we approach the anniversary on Sunday, we should t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-announces-more-4-million-mata-improve-memphis-bus-services | Cohen Announces More Than $4 Million for MATA to Improve Memphis Bus Services | 2016-09-08 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) has been awarded a $4,273,771 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration 5339(c) Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Program. These funds will be used to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities. “I am pleased MATA was chosen to receive these federal funds to improve the busing system and bus facilities in Memphis,” said Congressman Cohen. “Many Memphians do not have access to reliable transportation and for them MATA provides an essential service. I will continue to fight to ensure that MATA receives all the federal funding that it needs to best serve the people of the 9th District.” More information on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration 5339(c) Bus and Bus Facilities Competitive Program can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-receives-perfect-rating-american-association-university-women | Cohen Receives Perfect Rating on American Association of University Women Scorecard | 2016-09-08 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today received a perfect 100% rating by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) on their Congressional Voting Record for the 114th Congress for his work on promoting education and equality for women and girls. “It is an honor to be recognized for my work on behalf of equality for women and girls,” said Congressman Cohen. “I have long supported issues important to AAUW such as equal pay for equal work and protecting access to reproductive health care. I will continue to fight for these and other important initiatives for women and girls in the future.” Since their founding in 1881, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has been the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-applauds-department-energy-supertruck-ii-program | CONGRESSMAN COHEN APPLAUDS DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY SUPERTRUCK II PROGRAM AWARDS | 2016-09-02 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today praised the Department of Energy’s (DOE) selection of four companies to participate in the DOE’s SuperTruck II Program. The Department of Energy’s SuperTruck II program seeks to make dramatic improvements in the freight efficiency of heavy-duty Class 8 long-haul, commonly known as 18-wheelers, and regional-haul vehicles. Improvements include hybridization, more efficient idling, and high efficiency HVAC technologies For SuperTruck II, the Energy Department has selected the following four SuperTruck II teams for projects of $20 million in federal funding to develop and demonstrate cost-effective technologies, and each recipient will match that amount, dollar-for-dollar: • Cummins, Inc. (Columbus, IN) will design and develop a new more-efficient engine and advanced drivetrain and vehicle technologies. • Daimler Trucks North America LLC (Portland, OR) will develop and demonstrate a tractor-trailer combination using a suite of technologies including active aerodynamics, cylinder deactivation, hybridization, and the electrification of accessories. • Navistar, Inc. (Lisle, IL) will design and develop a vehicle and powertrain with electrified engine components that can enable higher engine efficiency and a significantly more aerodynamically reengineered cab. • Volvo Technology of America LLC (Greensboro, NC) will develop and demonstrate a tractor trailer combination with lightweight cab that achieves the freight efficiency goal using alternative engine designs and a variety of system technologies. Congressman Cohen stated, “I am pleased that Cummins, Inc. and Daimler Trucks North America, both of which have facilities in my District, have been chosen for this ground-breaking program. Also, Volvo’s Byhalia, Mississippi facility employs about 150 Memphians. I’m pleased that this program, which I have long championed, will help Tennessee’s Ninth District, and our entire nation.” Last year, Congressman Cohen introdu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/commending-president-obama-commuting-111-sentences | Commending President Obama for Commuting 111 Sentences | 2016-09-02 | 2016 | 2016-09 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I commended President Obama’s commutations of the unjust sentences of 111 prisoners, spoke at the swearing-in ceremony for General Sessions Court Clerk Ed Stanton, Jr., attended the Fighting for $15 public meeting, applauded the U.S. Department of Energy’s announcement of SuperTruck II awards for Memphis businesses, and joined my staff at the Orange Mound Community Center for Congress on Your Corner to assist constituents with navigating federal agencies. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Commending President Obama for Commuting 111 SentencesCelebrating the Swearing-in of Ed Stanton Jr.Fighting to Raise the Minimum WageDepartment of Energy SuperTruck II Awards to Memphis BusinessesBringing Congress to Your Corner Commending President Obama for Commuting 111 Sentences On Tuesday, President Obama commuted the sentences of 111 prisoners for largely nonviolent drug-related crimes. In August alone, the President commuted the sentences of 325 people, marking the greatest number of commutations ever granted by a president in a single month. Tuesday’s commutations represent the President’s continued commitment to use his pardon and commutation powers to right the wrongs of outdated and discriminatory federal policies, including unjust marijuana-related sentences. I commend President Obama for providing a second chance to these individuals. Celebrating the Swearing-in of Ed Stanton Jr. Yesterday, I was proud to attend the swearing-in of General Sessions Court Clerk Edward “Ed” Stanton, Jr. Clerk Stanton has faithfully served in this role since he returned from his 12 year retirement to act as Clerk Pro Tempore in 2011. He was elected in August 2012, and was reelected this August. Fighting to Raise the Minimum Wage On Wednesday, I attended the public meeting on “Poverty, Wages, and Fighting Back” hosted by Memphis Fight for $15. Throughout my career, I have consistently fought to ensure that hard-working Memphians ca… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-commends-president-obama-commuting-sentences-111 | Congressman Cohen Commends President Obama for Commuting Sentences of 111 Americans Serving Unjustly Long Sentences | 2016-08-30 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today commended President Obama’s decision to commute the sentences of 111 largely non-violent drug offenders. Earlier this month, President Obama announced the commutation of sentences for 214 non-violent drug offenders. With today’s additional 111 grants, the President has commuted the sentences of 325 people in the month of August alone. This is the greatest number of commutations ever granted by a president in a single month. Today’s commutations represent the President’s continued commitment to using his pardon and commutation powers to right the wrongs of outdated and discriminatory federal policies, and to provide a second chance to deserving individuals. “Continued commutations for those serving unjustly long sentences for non-violent drug convictions are encouraging, yet so many more need the same justice” said Congressman Cohen. “I have long advocated for a more rational criminal justice system and for the President to use his commutation power to help bring that about. “While addressing sentencing disparities for those convicted of crimes involving crack cocaine is important, I am pleased that today’s commutations also address marijuana. Marijuana does not pose the kind of public threat that dangerous drugs do. Yet we continue to keep marijuana as a Schedule I drug, and Americans are having their liberty taken away from them for marijuana possession. This is not just unfair, it is nonsensical. Marijuana should not even be in the same league with crack, cocaine, and heroin—drugs that are currently scheduled as lesser drugs in our outdated and illogical drug scheduling scheme. “I commend President Obama for issuing these Presidential commutations, yet I encourage him to continue to commute more unjust sentences during his remaining time in office, particularly for those who are serving unnecessary and unjustly long terms for marijuana, and not predominantly crack coca… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nashvillian-receives-two-congressional-awards | Nashvillian Receives Two Congressional Awards | 2016-08-29 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | NASHVILLE – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-5) today presented two Congressional Awards – Congress’s highest honors for youth – to Allison Plattsmier of Nashville. “Allison represents the best of Nashville, and she’s already volunteered more than most people do in a lifetime,” Rep. Cooper said. “I’m so proud of her, and I hope other young Nashvillians follow her lead. Our city will only get better!” The Congressional Award is the highest honor Congress can bestow upon youth civilians. Established in 1979, the award offers a non-competitive opportunity for young people, ages 14 to 24, to realize their own potential through goal setting in four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. There are six levels of Award — Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals. Allison received two awards: Bronze and Silver. In pursuit of her awards, Allison logged more than 260 hours of Voluntary Public Service. Most recently, she devoted much of her volunteerism to Hands On Nashville and Do Something activities. She has made comfort cards for impoverished youths, advocated for anti-gun violence, assisted the Disaster Services Team of the American Red Cross and more. Allison is the associate director of programs and development at the Transit Alliance of Middle Tennessee. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/celebrating-womans-right-vote | Celebrating a Woman's Right to Vote | 2016-08-26 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I celebrated the anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment and Tennessee’s role in the process as the Perfect 36, spoke at the Mid-South Minority Business Council Economic Development Forum Luncheon, met with representatives of Arc Mid-South to discuss issues affecting people with disabilities, and celebrated the 100th birthday of the National Park Service. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Celebrating a Woman’s Right to Vote Helping Minority Businesses in Memphis Succeed Fighting for People with Disabilities Celebrating the 100th Birthday of the National Park Service Bringing Congress to your Corner Celebrating a Woman’s Right to Vote Bas-relief commemorating women’s suffrage by Alan LeQuire hanging in the Tennessee State Capitol Wednesday was the anniversary of Tennessee becoming the Perfect 36, or the pivotal 36th and final state needed to ratify the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution giving women the right to vote. Today is Women’s Equality Day celebrating the official ratification of the 19th Amendment nationally. When I served in the Tennessee State Senate, I was proud to lead the effort to memorialize Tennessee's role in the passage of the 19th Amendment with a bas-relief sculpture installed in the State Capitol (pictured above). I also helped create and served on the Women's Suffrage Commission to celebrate women's right to vote. Today, a new statue designed by the same artist as the bas-relief, Alan LeQuire, was unveiled at Centennial Park in Nashville in honor of the anniversary (pictured below). Memphian Paula Casey, who has dedicated her career to honoring the women’s suffragist movement, spearheaded the initiative to get this monument constructed. I remain committed to fighting in Congress for issues important to women, from equal pay for equal work to access to women’s healthcare services such as Planned Parenthood. Statue commemorating women’s suffrage by Alan LeQuire … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://cooper.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/tennessee-to-lose-60-million-in-highway-funds | Tennessee to Lose $60 Million in Highway Funds | 2016-08-19 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Jim Cooper | C000754 | cooper.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-5) today was notified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that Tennessee stands to lose approximately $60 million in funding for highways because of a recent bill passed by the state legislature. The bill, SB 1317, reduced alcohol offenses for minor drivers. It changed the allowable Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) from .02 to .08 for 18-to-20-year-olds. It was signed into law on May 5 and went into effect on July 1. The federal zero tolerance law requires that states limit BAC to .02 for drivers under 21. If a state is not in compliance with federal drunk driving laws, the U.S. Department of Transportation must withhold 8% of federal highway funding. NHTSA officials warned that if Tennessee is not in compliance on October 1, 2016, Tennessee will forfeit approximately $60 million in highway funding. “This must be a mistake,” Rep. Cooper said. “No one wants more drunk drivers on the road. State leaders should act immediately and comply with a zero tolerance policy.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/ending-federal-use-private-prisons | Ending the Federal Use of Private Prisons | 2016-08-19 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I commended the Obama Administration for ending the use of private prisons for some federal inmates, celebrated the 81st anniversary of Social Security, attended a celebration honoring the United States’ diplomatic relationship with Kenya, and met with HUD’s Memphis Field Director Sernorma Mitchell. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Ending the Federal Use of Private Prisons Celebrating the 81st Anniversary of Social Security Honoring the United States’ Diplomatic Relationship with Kenya Meeting with HUD’s Memphis Field Director Sernorma Mitchell Bringing Congress to your Corner Ending the Federal Use of Private Prisons I am pleased that the Obama Administration is phasing out the Department of Justice's use of private prisons for some federal inmates. I have fought against private prisons for over 25 years as a Tennessee State Senator and now as a Member of Congress. Private prisons are both less safe and less effective at providing correctional services than government-run prisons. No one should profit from crime, nor should any entity that benefits from harsher sentences be part of the equation of sentencing and crime. Celebrating the 81st Anniversary of Social Security Sunday was the 81st anniversary of Social Security. More than just a retirement program, Social Security is a lifeline that keeps millions of Americans out of poverty. Over 110,000 citizens of the Ninth District rely on Social Security to help pay for basic necessities like food, healthcare and housing. Read my statement on the anniversary here. Honoring the United States’ Diplomatic Relationship with Kenya On Saturday, I attended five-time World Kickboxing Champion and my friend Anthony “Amp” Elmore’s Safari Homecoming Celebration to honor President Obama’s legacy with Kenya, to honor Tom Mboya, a Kenyan trade unionist and educationist, and to honor the United States’ 60-year diplomatic relationship with Kenya. Meeting with HUD Memphis… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-celebrates-81st-anniversary-social-security | Congressman Cohen Celebrates 81st Anniversary of Social Security | 2016-08-14 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) issued the following statement to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Social Security, which was signed into law on August 14, 1935: “Social Security is more than just a retirement program – it is a lifeline that keeps millions of Americans out of poverty. More than 110,000 citizens of the Ninth District rely on Social Security to help pay for basic necessities like food, healthcare and housing. Even as we celebrate the success of Social Security on this 81st anniversary, some in Congress still insist we must slash its benefits for millions of Americans who need it. I am fighting against these unnecessary and irresponsible policies, and am proud to support legislation that would expand Social Security, increase benefits and better protect beneficiaries from rising inflation. I am a cosponsor of a piece of legislation to ensure millions of senior citizens receive the cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) they deserve. The Seniors Deserve a Raise Act would tie future COLAs to the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E), which weighs more heavily the items that senior citizens spend more of their money on. I am also working to implement policies that would help Social Security remain solvent for future generations, and I will continue my efforts to ensure that Americans who have paid into the program receive the benefits we have promised them.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohens-statement-death-blues-legend-and-queen-beale-street | Congressman Cohen's Statement on the Death of Blues Legend and Queen of Beale Street Ruby Wilson | 2016-08-12 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) released the following statement on the death on Blues legend and “Queen of Beale Street” Ruby Wilson. "I am saddened by the death of my friend Ruby Wilson,” said Congressman Cohen. “Ruby was a sweetheart of a human being. She was always smiling, upbeat and caring for others in addition to being a fabulous talent who sang of, for and about Memphis. She had a phenomenal life. Ruby brought joy to people’s hearts all over the world and was a legend in her hometown. She was truly the queen of the Blues, Beale Street and Memphis.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/honoring-51st-anniversary-historic-voting-rights-act | Honoring the 51st Anniversary of the Historic Voting Rights Act | 2016-08-12 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I honored the 51st anniversary of the historic Voting Rights Act of 1965, remembered TBI Special Agent De’Greaun Frazier who was killed in the line of duty and my friend and the Queen of Beale Street Ruby Wilson, commended President Obama for lifting barriers on medical marijuana research but criticized the DEA for failing to reschedule marijuana, spoke at the re-opening of the Memphis Health Center, and joined my staff at the Whitehaven Branch Library for “Congress on your Corner” to assist constituents with navigating federal agencies. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Honoring the 51st Anniversary of the Historic Voting Rights Act Remembering TBI Special Agent De’Greaun Frazier Remembering the Queen of Beale Street Ruby Wilson Fighting for Sensible Drug Laws Speaking at the Re-Opening of the Memphis Health Center Bringing Congress to your Corner Honoring the 51st Anniversary of the Historic Voting Rights Act Saturday was the 51st anniversary of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965. The right to vote is the most fundamental right of citizenship in our democracy. Therefore, the Supreme Court was wrong to undermine the Voting Rights Act in 2013 by striking down a key provision preventing voter discrimination, and Congress needs to fix it. Read my statement about the anniversary here. Remembering TBI Special Agent De’Greaun Frazier On Tuesday, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) Special Agent and former Millington Police Officer De’Greaun Frazier was tragically killed in the line of duty. Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. My thoughts go out to Agent Frazier's family, friends and colleagues. Remembering the Queen of Beale Street Ruby Wilson Today, Memphis lost a legend, my friend and the Queen of Beale Street Ruby Wilson. Ruby was a sweetheart of a human being. She was always smiling, upbeat and caring for others in addition to being a fabulous talent who sa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-commends-obama-administration-lifting-research-barriers-medical | Cohen Commends Obama Administration for Lifting Research Barriers on Medical Marijuana, Criticizes DEA for Failing to Reschedule Marijuana | 2016-08-11 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today commended the Obama Administration for announcing a new policy that would allow other universities to apply to grow marijuana for medical research. Currently, only the University of Mississippi is authorized to grow marijuana for use in medical studies. Congressman Cohen also criticized the Drug Enforcement Administration for failing to remove marijuana from the list of Schedule I substances, the most dangerous and addictive substances. The DEA had suggested it might do so by the end of June. “I commend President Obama for announcing he will remove barriers on other universities to apply to grow marijuana for medical research,” said Congressman Cohen. “While I am encouraged by the progress and believe this new policy will lead to more scientific studies that could be used to treat dozens of diseases, more should have been done. The DEA said it would consider removing marijuana as a Schedule I drug by the end of June, but it failed to do so. Marijuana must be rescheduled. Numerous physicians and 25 states recognize the medical benefits of marijuana and keeping marijuana as Schedule I—with heroin and LSD—is ludicrous. It is an injustice and an anachronism. It is an extreme example of a cultural lag as society has moved way ahead of our outdated drug laws. The Attorney General can and should act to better reflect the science, the medical research, and the opinions of the American people when it comes to the federal classification of marijuana. And by the way, congratulations to Michael Phelps, the world’s greatest athlete.” Twenty-five states and the District of Columbia have already legalized medical marijuana. Roughly a dozen additional states recognize a medical use for cannabidiol (CBD), a therapeutic compound derived from marijuana that has virtually no THC, the drug’s psychoactive ingredient, but that families have used successfully to treat their children’s seizu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohens-statement-death-tbi-agent-degreaun-frazier | Congressman Cohen's Statement on the Death of TBI Agent De'Greaun Frazier | 2016-08-09 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) released the following statement on the death of Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Special Agent and former Millington Police Officer De'Greaun Frazier who was killed in the line of duty today: "I am saddened by the death of TBI Special Agent and former Millington Police Officer De'Greaun Frazier who was killed in the line of duty today," said Congressman Cohen. "Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. My thoughts go out to Agent Frazier's family, friends and colleagues." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/51st-anniversary-voting-rights-act-congressman-cohen-renews-call | On 51st Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, Congressman Cohen Renews Call on Congress to Restore its Full Protections | 2016-08-06 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, today marked the 51st anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) and called on Republicans in Congress to allow a vote on bipartisan legislation to restore the VRA. Three years ago, in Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court invalidated a key component of the VRA that prevented discrimination before it occurred. Since then, new restrictions have been put in place in 22 states since 2010, making it harder for millions of Americans to exercise their right to vote. “The right to vote is the most fundamental right of citizenship in our democracy. Yet for most of our nation's history, many of our citizens, particularly African-Americans, were denied this most basic right,” said Congressman Cohen. “My colleague and friend Congressman John Lewis marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, AL for the right to vote on Bloody Sunday, March 7, 1965. Fifty-one years ago today, our nation took a momentous step toward correcting that injustice when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law. The Supreme Court was wrong to undermine the Voting Rights Act in 2013 by striking down a key provision preventing voter discrimination, and Congress needs to fix it. It is a sad irony that in the 1960s, John Lewis was beaten over the head by Alabama State Troopers and is now being beaten again by the Supreme Court and the failure of Republicans in Congress to act. I am a co-sponsor of legislation that would restore the Voting Rights Act to its full effectiveness. Congress should commemorate the anniversary by passing this legislation to ensure equal voting rights for all.” The Voting Rights Act was enacted only after years of those in the civil rights movement marching and in some cases being beaten or dying in the pursuit of voting rights. For 48 years, the Voting Rights Act helped secure the right to vote for millions of… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/thank-you-allowing-me-opportunity-serve-you-congress | Thank You for Allowing Me the Opportunity to Serve you in Congress | 2016-08-05 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I commended President Obama for commuting the prison sentences of 214 non-violent, low-level drug offenders, attended community events for National Night Out, spoke to the first Memphis Youth City Council, attended the “Soul Saving Sunday” service in Frayser, and remembered Tennessee pioneer Jane Eskind. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Thank You for Allowing Me the Opportunity to Serve you in Congress Commending Presidential Commutations for Low-Level Drug Offenders Building Trust Between the Police and Our Communities Congratulating the First Youth City Council Attending the “Soul Saving Sunday” Service Remembering Jane Eskind Bringing Congress to your Corner Thank You for Allowing Me the Opportunity to Serve you in Congress It is an honor to serve the 9th District and its citizens in Congress. I look forward to continue fighting for better and more affordable healthcare, voting rights, criminal justice and drug policy reform, college debt relief and other issues important to Memphis. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve you. Commending Presidential Commutations for Low-Level Drug Offenders On Wednesday, I commended President Obama for his decision to commute the sentences of 214 non-violent, low-level drug offenders incarcerated in federal prisons, including a Memphian. Read more about these commutations here. Building Trust Between the Police and Our Communities On Tuesday, I attended several different Memphis neighborhood association National Night Out events with General Sessions Court Clerk Ed Stanton, Jr. National Night Out is an annual movement across the country to help build trust between the police and communities to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live. Congratulating the First Youth City Council On Thursday, I attended the inauguration of the first Memphis Youth City Council at City Hall. The Memphis Youth City Council will consist of 13 Memphis-area high… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohens-statement-passing-jane-eskind | Congressman Cohen's Statement on the Passing of Jane Eskind | 2016-08-04 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) tonight released the following statement on the passing of Jane Eskind, the first woman to ever win a statewide election in Tennessee: "Jane Eskind was a legendary citizen and politician," said Congressman Cohen. "Jane deeply cared about progressive issues and good government. She was a leader recognized nationally for her support for the Democratic Party and all issues pertaining to women. The care she received from her husband Dick while she was ill was that of a loving, devoted mate and an example of a great marriage. My thoughts go out to Jane and her family." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-commends-president-obama-commuting-sentences-214 | Congressman Cohen Commends President Obama for Commuting Sentences of 214 Americans Serving Unjustly Long Sentences | 2016-08-03 | 2016 | 2016-08 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice and leading Congressional advocate for more justice through Presidential commutations, today commended President Obama’s decision to commute the sentences of 214 non-violent drug offenders incarcerated in federal prisons, including one Memphian. This is the largest single-day batch of commutations by a President since 1900. Under current federal law, many of these prisoners would have already completed their sentences and been released. Today’s commutations indicate the President is continuing to move towards a more just approach that makes broader use of his pardon and commutation powers to right the wrongs of outdated federal policies that have since been overturned by Congress. "I commend President Obama for issuing the largest single-day batch of Presidential commutations in more than a century,” said Congressman Cohen. “These commutations, many of which were for those serving unjustly long sentences for non-violent drug convictions, are an encouraging development and a significant step by the President toward a more rational and fair justice system—something I have long encouraged. I am pleased that one of the President’s commuted sentences today was of a Memphian, but there still remain others languishing in prisons serving sentences that have been repudiated by both Congress and the President. Not only do our nation’s outdated drug laws disproportionately affect minority populations, but it also costs more than $30,000 per year to incarcerate each individual. I hope the President continues and accelerates his efforts to commute unjust sentences during his remaining time in office.” For years, Congressman Cohen has repeatedly called on the President to make broader use of his pardon and commutation powers to address these injustices, including a February 2016 column in the Commercial Appeal calling on increased staffing at the White House Counsel’s Office to review cleme… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/attending-school-health-fair-and-seminar-whitehaven-high-school | Attending the School Health Fair and Seminar at Whitehaven High School | 2016-07-29 | 2016 | 2016-07 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | This week, I attended the School Health Fair and Seminar at Whitehaven High School and celebrated the grand opening of the Institute of Cosmetology and the Joy Devine Boutique. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Attending the School Health Fair and Seminar at Whitehaven High School Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Institute of Cosmetology, Inc. and Joy Divine Boutique Early Voting Ends July 30 Bringing Congress to your Corner Attending the School Health Fair and Seminar at Whitehaven High School On Saturday, I attended the School Health Fair and Seminar at Whitehaven High School. My friend Hazel Moore, known by many as “the Mayor of Whitehaven,” puts on this back-to-school fair every year to give out school supplies to students, conduct health screenings and provide other information students might need to start a new school year. Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Institute of Cosmetology, Inc. and Joy Divine Boutique On Saturday, I attended the grand opening of the Institute of Cosmetology, Inc. and Joy Divine Boutique. I would like to congratulate my friend Dr. Roosevelt Joyner for opening the institute and boutique, and I encourage Memphians to come out to these institutions. Pictured above from left to right: Congressman Cohen, Dr. Roosevelt Joyner, Tennessee State Representative Antonio “2 Shay” Parkinson and Dr. G. J. West II. Early Voting Ends July 30 Early voting ends in Shelby County for the August 4th Federal and State Primaries and County General Election on July 30. Polls are open today until 7PM and Saturday from 10AM to 4PM. A list of early voting locations can be found here. Bringing Congress to your Corner Over the summer and fall, my office will hold “Congress on your Corner” events. Please mark these dates on your calendar. If you have questions or problems with Social Security, Medicare, FHA, the VA or any other federal agencies, my staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide assistance. Fri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/taxonomy/story-type/enewsletters/welcoming-us-secretary-commerce-penny-pritzker-memphis | Welcoming U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker to Memphis | 2016-07-25 | 2016 | 2016-07 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | Dear Friend, This week, I welcomed U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker to Memphis, attended an event in Orange Mound on youth involvement in neighborhoods, honored the graduates of the Veterans Court, attended the Memphis Urban League Empowerment Luncheon, remembered my colleague Congressman Mark Takai, and announced a $12.3 million grant for Memphis International Airport. Keep reading to learn more about my week and follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see these updates as they happen. Welcoming U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker to Memphis Promoting Youth Involvement in Orange Mound Honoring the Veterans Court Graduates Helping African American Youth Secure Jobs Remembering My Colleague Congressman Mark Takai Applauding Federal Funding for Memphis Early Voting has Begun Bringing Congress to your Corner Welcoming U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker to Memphis On Wednesday, I welcomed U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker to Memphis. I accompanied Secretary Pritzker on her tour of the FedEx Global Hub on Wednesday night during prime shipping hours. On the tour, I spoke with Secretary Pritzker about bringing more jobs to Memphis. I take every opportunity to showcase Memphis and encourage government officials to keep Memphis in mind as they do their jobs. Promoting Youth Involvement in Orange Mound On Wednesday, I attended the ‘This is Orange Mound” bus tour final stop at the Orange Mound Art Gallery. This event was sponsored by Levi Frazier and Deborah Glass-Frazier, co-founders of the Blues City Cultural Center, who have been actively involved in the arts in Memphis. I spoke about how youth can take ownership of their neighborhoods through voting, volunteering with community based organizations, supporting and promoting local businesses, and holding other members of the community accountable. Neighborhood youth in Orange Mound must be directly involved in their neighborhood if the community is to have a promising future. Honoring the Veterans Court Graduates On Wednesday, I att… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-memphis-international-airport-receives-123-million-airport | Cohen: Memphis International Airport Receives $12.3 Million Airport Improvement Program Grant | 2016-07-21 | 2016 | 2016-07 | Democrat | House | TN | Steve Cohen | C001068 | cohen.house.gov | legacy | [MEMPHIS, TN] – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today announced that Memphis International Airport received a $12,395,583 Airport Improvement Program grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the modernization of Concourse B, improvement of the access road and security enhancements. “Memphis International Airport is a critically important transportation link in the Mid-South region,” said Congressman Cohen. “This funding will help the airport continue to make upgrades to serve travelers safely and efficiently for many years to come.” The Airport Improvement Program grant will fund the following at Memphis International Airport: The initial design phase for modernization of the terminal Concourse B after the elimination of Delta Airlines as a hub Various security enhancements required by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) The rehabilitation of 300 feet of pavement to improve the existing commercial access road to the airport Memphis International Airport is a world-class facility that today serves nearly 4 million passengers per year. Dedicated in 1929 as the Memphis Municipal Airport with just two major carriers, the airport now hosts several national carriers as well as the FedEx “Super Hub.” Memphis International has grown into the busiest cargo airport in the country, and is the second-busiest in the world —behind only Hong Kong. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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